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A new approach of understanding the psychology of thermal comfort: combined analyses of physiological, behavioural and psychological aspects.

Number: pap. 636

Author(s) : HAWIGHORST M., SCHWEIKER M., WAGNER A.

Summary

What are the psychological aspects of thermal comfort? The adaptive comfort model mentions physiological, behavioral and psychological adaptive processes. However, the concept of psychological aspects and their impact on physiological and behavioral aspects is not sufficiently described yet. Therefore this paper focuses on psychological factors in relation to thermal comfort in offices in summer time. A new approach to investigate the behavior of occupants, their thermal sensation and preferences with regard to their personality and their expectations was realized. Based on an experimental design, which was developed in a semi-controlled climate chamber, new data was gained in a field study. Subject’s reactions together with the physical properties of the indoor environment in naturally ventilated, air-conditioned and mixed mode office buildings were recorded. In conclusion, the psychological aspects concerning personality traits, the feeling of control over the environment (desire for control) and preferences of temperatures (e.g. heat sensitive) are specified. A new questionnaire was developed and combined with analyses of physiological data like the hydration of the skin and skin temperature to get deeper into the understanding of the psychological aspects of thermal comfort.

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Pages: 11 p.

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Details

  • Original title: A new approach of understanding the psychology of thermal comfort: combined analyses of physiological, behavioural and psychological aspects.
  • Record ID : 30009425
  • Languages: English
  • Source: Clima 2013. 11th REHVA World Congress and 8th International Conference on Indoor Air Quality, Ventilation and Energy Conservation in Buildings.
  • Publication date: 2013/06/16

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