Thermal sensation and comfort in transient non-uniform thermal environments

• DOI: 10.1007/s00421-004-1137-y
• Publication Date: 2004-06-19T09:30:39Z
• Authors: H. Zhang; C. Huizenga; E. Arens; D. Wang
• Keywords: Thermal sensation; Transient (computer programming); Human physiology; Core temperature; Sensation; Skin Temperature

Most existing thermal comfort models are applicable only to steady-state, uniform thermal environments. This paper presents summary results from 109 human tests that were performed under non-uniform and transient conditions. In these tests, local body areas were independently heated or cooled while the rest of the body was exposed to a warm, neutral or cool environment. Skin temperatures, core temperature, thermal sensation and comfort responses were collected at 1- to 3-min intervals. Based on these tests, we have developed predictive models of local and overall thermal sensation and comfort.