ABSIM Exhibition Design: Agent-Based Simulation in the Curating Process

Abstract

The design of museum and gallery spaces are typically done by different designers with a mutual understanding of the scope of work for each. In the best possible scenario, these processes will take place congruently, with cooperation from both designers to realize the complete museum. In many cases, these processes take place in isolation from one another, with little to no collaboration between the building designer and the curator. Agent-Based Simulation, or ABSim, is a process often used to analyze the flow of pedestrians in a designed space. Most commonly used to optimize evacuation patterns and transit terminal layout, the same process of simulated occupancy can be used in the process of designing and curating a museum. By utilizing ABSim in the design phase, architects and curators can work together to identify and minimize problem areas, enhance high-traffic regions, and avoid dead-zones. This project relies on simulation analysis in the design process to better understand and control how hypothetical occupants will use and understand the building and its galleries in order to create a comprehensive museum design.