AT-78-07A-1 -- Mathematical Models for Predicting the Thermal Comfort Response of Building Occupants PDF

Mathematical modeling and computer simulation of buildings, equipment, weather, ventilationand solar radiation have become valuable tools for the design understanding and operation ofbuildings and HVAC systems. One can also model people to predict their thermal and psychologicalresponses to the environments in buildings. These models can be helpful in assessingthe consequences on occupant acceptability of energy conservation schemes that affect thethermal environment of a space. This paper reviews three popular models, discussing andcomparing their theory, limits of application and predicted results.