CH-24-C100 - Predicting Thermal Comfort Levels Using Facial Thermal Imaging and Skin Temperature: A Data-Driven Approach

Previous studies in the field of thermal comfort primarily aimed to understand how indoor environmental conditions relate to occupants' perception of thermal comfort. Many of these experiments relied on physiological parameters to predict thermal comfort. However, this particular study shifts its focus towards predicting indoor thermal comfort by utilizing thermal imaging technology. The research investigates the connection between thermal images of occupants, their skin temperatures, and their overall thermal comfort. Furthermore, the study assesses the practical feasibility of using this method to predict thermal comfort. To gather data, experiments were carried out in an environmental chamber and validated through field studies conducted in an open plan office with both mechanical and natural ventilation in July. Participants' thermal sensations were recorded through questionnaires, alongside measurements of various physical and physiological factors. The study also involved capturing thermal images of participants' faces during the experiments. Based on the collected data, the researchers developed a model for predicting an individual's thermal comfort using thermal imaging and skin temperature information. This novel evaluation method, based on thermal imaging and Fanger's PMV scale, offers a non-intrusive and straightforward approach to assessing an individual's indoor thermal comfort.