48 Hour Design Innovation Workshop
Tokyo, 23-25 November 2008
Team Kuku
Crowdscape: an intelligent crowd management system
The issue
Team Kuku were assisted by Hiroshi Nimiya, a profoundly deaf designer at Fuji Xerox, in understanding the problems he faces in using busy public spaces, and his greatest fears should a disaster.
These insights helped the team identify an opportunity to assist users in public spaces to move safely. Knowing when to go outside and when to remain inside is crucial depending on the disaster context. In an earthquake, staying inside can be safer than going outside, while in a fire the opposite is true.
Through expert consultation, using technology and materials research, and working alongside Hiroshi, the team developed Crowdscape.
What is it?
Crowdscape is an intelligent crowd management system using directional symbols for public buildings that provides instruction and reassurance to high volumes of people.
In a disaster situation, the safest course of action is not necessarily to leave. The system simply instructs the best solution for the given context - to move in a given direction or to stay put. The system consists of modules that communicate wirelessly, have a central control system, and can be mounted on floors, walls, stairs or ceilings.
Based on feedback from existing infrastructure in the building, the modules are instructed to display simple LED symbols to inform the safe and efficient movement of people away from danger and obstructions. In case of a power cut, the modules contain their own long-lasting back-up power supply, which allow operation for several days. Individual modules can be combined to form larger shapes for a bigger visual impact.
This system is useful in busy public spaces, not only in extreme disaster situations, but also for everyday problems such as rush hour or construction areas.
