| dc.description.abstract | Thermoregulation system and human body responses, both physiological (i.e. skin and
core temperature) and psychological (thermal sensation and thermal comfort), have
been of considerable interest to researchers. However, while reactions to extreme
conditions are well understood and explained, there is a considerable knowledge gap for
mild temperature range adaptation. Previous research focused on the whole body
response, while local analysis is more appropriate for a new generation of intelligent
thermal control systems such as needed in planes. Furthermore majority of previous
studies were carried out predominantly on mannequins or with subjects placed in highly
controlled lab chambers, hence adaptations in normal shared spaces is not investigated
in sufficient depth. In addition, no study investigated infants’ temperature adaptation.
This thesis describes the comprehensive study of the human temperature distribution in
selected areas, both for adults and infants under the age of 2. Furthermore, variation of
core and local skin temperature, thermal sensation and level of comfort due to long
periods of inactivity were also investigated in adults. These studies have set the basis
for the development of temperature monitoring systems.
The first monitoring system specific to children under 2 provides fever detection based
on skin temperature measurement. It was developed for a Spanish textile company
(AITEX), and it is a patent under consideration. The second system monitors level of
comfort and thermal sensation of adults in indoor environments. The system is based on
pre-existing statistical studies and Fanger’s steady-state model. It adapts to the
individual while analysing real time skin temperature distribution, and identifies | en_US |
