RESEARCH ARTICLE Agent-based and graphical modeling of building occupancy

We propose a novel stochastic agent-based model of occupancy dynamics in a building with an arbitrary number of zones and occupants. Simulation of the model yields time-series of the location of each agent (a software representation of an occupant). The model is meant to provide realistic simulation of occupancy dynamics in non-emergency situations. Comparison of the model’s prediction of distributions of random variables such as first arrival time of a building are provided against those estimated from measurements in commercial buildings. We also propose a lower complexity graphical model of occupancy evolution in multi-zone buildings. The graphical model captures information on mean occupancy and correlation among occupancy at various zones in the building. The agent-based model can be used in conjunction with building performance simulation tools, while the graphical model is more suitable for real-time applications, such as occupancy estimation with noisy sensor measurements.

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