STUDY ON THERMAL COMFORT

IN CLASSROOMS OF
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS THROUGH
SIMULATION
TABLE OF CONTENTS:

1. Secondary data collection and comprehension

2. Statement of research problem
● Object of study
● Significance of investigation
● Research question
3. Research methodology
4. Pilot Study Primary data
5. Bibliography
1.SECONDARY DATA COLLECTION AND
COMPREHENSION:

1.1. What is thermal analysis:

Thermal comfort in buildings refers to the condition in which the

occupants feel satisfied with the temperature and overall

thermal environment of the indoor space. It is a state of mind

that reflects whether a person feels too hot, too cold, or just

right within a given environment.

1.SECONDARY DATA COLLECTION AND
COMPREHENSION:
1.2. Key Factors Influencing Thermal Comfort:
1. Air Temperature:
- The temperature of the air within the building. This is the most obvious factor affecting thermal comfort, but it's not the only one.
2. Radiant Temperature:
- The temperature of the surfaces surrounding the occupants, such as walls, windows, and floors. Warm or cold surfaces can influence how
people feel, even if the air temperature is ideal.
3. Humidity:
- The amount of moisture in the air. High humidity can make the air feel warmer and more uncomfortable, while low humidity can make the
air feel cooler and drier, potentially causing discomfort.
4. Air Velocity:
- The speed of air movement in the space. A slight breeze can make a room feel cooler, while stagnant air might make it feel warmer than
it actually is.
5. Clothing Insulation:
- The amount of insulation provided by the occupants' clothing. Different types of clothing will affect how people perceive the temperature.
6. Metabolic Rate:
- The rate at which a person’s body generates heat. This varies with activity level, meaning that someone who is exercising will feel warmer
than someone who is sitting still.
1.SECONDARY DATA COLLECTION AND
COMPREHENSION:
1.3. Achieving and Importance of Thermal Comfort :
Achieving Thermal Comfort:
Design:
Architects and engineers design buildings with features like insulation, thermal mass, and window placement to maintain comfortable temperatures .
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are used to control indoor temperatures and air quality.
Adaptive Strategies:
Occupants can adapt to their environment by adjusting clothing, using fans or heaters, and opening or closing windows.

Importance of Thermal Comfort:

Occupant Well-being:
Maintaining thermal comfort is crucial for the health, productivity, and well-being of building occupants.
Energy Efficiency:
Buildings that are designed to maintain thermal comfort efficiently use less energy for heating and cooling, contributing to sustainability.
1.SECONDARY DATA COLLECTION AND
COMPREHENSION:
1.4. Analysis of Thermal Comfort in a University Building, During
the Hot/Dry Season in Kebbi State, Nigeria
1.Thermal Comfort in Buildings:
-The study focused on the thermal comfort of a university building in Kebbi State, Nigeria, particularly during the hot/dry season. The research found that indoor
temperatures often exceeded comfortable levels, leading to poor indoor environmental quality (IEQ). The study recommended specific temperature ranges (27-32°C)
to maintain thermal comfort in the building, with sustainability measures being crucial to ensure comfort.

2. Transitional Spaces:
The study did not specifically address transitional spaces but emphasized the importance of passive cooling strategies and building orientation to prevent overheating,
particularly in spaces exposed to direct solar radiation.

3. Research Gap:
The research identified a gap in understanding the thermal comfort needs of educational buildings in hot/dry climates, particularly in regions like Nigeria, where
existing standards may not be fully applicable.

4. Previous Studies:
The study referenced previous research on thermal comfort in educational buildings, particularly in hot climates, emphasizing the challenges of maintaining
comfortable indoor temperatures in such environments.

5. Need for Study:

The study was needed to address the specific thermal comfort challenges faced in educational buildings in hot/dry climates, which are not adequately covered by
existing standards.

6. Methodology:
The study employed objective measurements using a NETATMO smart weather data logger to monitor indoor environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, CO2
levels, and noise) during the hottest month. The data was used to assess the thermal comfort of occupants and the building’s energy performance.

7. Findings:
- The study found that the standard effective temperature for the studio complex was higher than the recommended 26°C for educational buildings,
indicating a need for climate-specific adjustments to thermal comfort standards. The research also highlighted the impact of building orientation and
1.SECONDARY DATA COLLECTION AND
COMPREHENSION:
1.4. Analysis of Thermal Comfort in a University Building, During
the Hot/Dry Season in Kebbi State, Nigeria
1.SECONDARY DATA COLLECTION AND
COMPREHENSION:
1.5. Thermal Comfort Assessment in University Classrooms: A
Discriminant Analysis for Categorizing Individuals According
Thermal Preferences:
1.Thermal Comfort in Buildings:
This paper analyzed thermal comfort in Brazilian university classrooms, emphasizing gender differences in thermal preferences. The study revealed that females
preferred slightly lower temperatures (20.39-22.19°C) compared to males (19.47-22.56°C). The research used discriminant analysis to categorize individuals' thermal
preferences effectively.

2. Transitional Spaces:
The paper did not focus on transitional spaces but highlighted the need for indoor spaces that cater to the varying thermal preferences of different genders, implying
that transitional spaces could also benefit from such differentiated design considerations.

3. Research Gap:
This study pointed out a gap in the literature regarding the influence of gender on thermal comfort in higher education institutions, noting that most research had
focused on younger age groups, such as kindergarten and elementary school students..

4. Previous Studies:
This paper built on previous studies that analyzed thermal comfort using various statistical methods, such as linear regression and discriminant analysis, to
understand thermal preferences in educational settings

5. Need for Study:

The research was needed to explore the gender-specific thermal preferences in university classrooms, aiming to improve comfort and energy efficiency by tailoring
thermal conditions to the needs of different genders.

6. Methodology:
The research involved 50 measurements in classrooms during autumn, using a microclimate station to gather environmental data. Discriminant analysis was then
applied to categorize individuals' thermal preferences based on their thermal sensation votes, predicted mean votes, and thermal preference votes.

7. Findings:
1.SECONDARY DATA COLLECTION AND
COMPREHENSION:
1.5. Thermal Comfort Assessment in University Classrooms: A
Discriminant Analysis for Categorizing Individuals According
Thermal Preferences:
2. Statement Of Research Problem:
2.1Object of Study:
Evaluation of Thermal Comfort in Classrooms of Institutional Buildings by using Simulation Tools.
2.1.1Key Details
- Focus:

The object of study would involve assessing the thermal comfort levels within various classrooms of a chosen educational institution using advanced
simulation tools such as Sketchup Safeira, EnergyPlus, DesignBuilder, or similar software.
-Scope:
The study would examine factors influencing thermal comfort, including building orientation, material properties, HVAC system efficiency, occupancy
levels, and external climatic conditions
-Simulation Variables:
Seasonal Variations: Simulate thermal comfort
• Building Design Configurations:
Explore how changes in window size, insulation levels, or shading devices affect thermal comfort.
• Occupancy Patterns:
Analyze how varying occupancy levels throughout the day impact comfort levels.
• Ventilation Strategies:
Compare the effects of natural versus mechanical ventilation on thermal comfort
2.1.2Outcomes:
The goal would be to identify optimal design strategies and operational practices that enhance thermal comfort in classrooms while minimizing energy
consumption. The study could also provide recommendations for retrofitting existing buildings to improve thermal comfort based on the simulation results.
2.Preliminary Statement Of Research
Problem:
2.2:Significance Of Investigation
The study on thermal comfort in classrooms of educational institutions through simulation is of significant importance due to its potential to impact both the
learning environment and energy efficiency. This investigation holds the following key significances:
2.2.1Key Details
• Enhancing Learning Outcomes:
- Thermal comfort is directly linked to student concentration, cognitive performance, and overall well-being. By identifying and optimizing thermal
conditions within classrooms, this study aims to create environments that support better academic performance and reduce absenteeism due to
discomfort-related issues.
• Promoting Energy Efficiency:
- Educational institutions are often significant consumers of energy, particularly for heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. Through simulation, this study
will evaluate various strategies to achieve thermal comfort with minimal energy use, contributing to the sustainability goals of the institution and reducing
operational costs.
• Informing Building Design and Retrofitting:
- The findings from this investigation can serve as critical input for architects, engineers, and policymakers in designing new educational buildings or
retrofitting existing ones. By simulating different scenarios and configurations, the study will provide data-driven insights on the most effective design
elements and technologies for maintaining thermal comfort.
• Supporting Adaptive Comfort Models:
- With growing awareness of the need for adaptable and personalized indoor environments, this study will contribute to the development of adaptive
comfort models in educational settings. By simulating how different variables affect comfort, the research will help refine guidelines that account for diverse
student needs.
• Contributing to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- This investigation aligns with global efforts to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 and SDG 7 By improving
thermal comfort and energy efficiency in educational institutions, the study supports these broader societal goals.
• Advancing the Use of Simulation in Building Performance:
2.Statement Of Research
Problem:
2.3,Research Question
What are the key architectural strategies for achieving thermal comfort in
Educational Institutions and how it can be analyzed using simulation tools ?.
3. Research Methodology:

1. SECONDARY DATA COLLECTION & INTEPRETATION

2. ANALYSIS ON IMPLEMENTATION OF THERMAL COMFORT , CONSTRAINTS &

PERFORMANCE

3. LIVE STUDY OF THE CLASSROOMS OF INSTITUTIONAL BUILDINGS

4. ANALYSIS ON THE IMPLEMENTATION

5. COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS TO INTERPRET THE FUNCTIONING OF EAT

6. COLLECTION OF DATA FORM SIMULATION AND METER READIMGS

7. USING SOFTWARE SAFEIRA

8. REPORT ON THE THERMAL COMFORT IN HOT AND HUMID CLIMATIC ZONE.

4. PILOT STUDY WITH PRIMARY
DATA:
4.1Site Location:
Crescent School Of
Architecture
4. PILOT STUDY WITH PRIMARY
DATA:
Analyzing Through Simulation:

Software: Sefaira

OUTCOMES OF SKETCUP SEFAIRA:

1. Predicted Mean Vote (PMV)

2. Thermal Comfort Maps

3. Operative Temperature

4. Daylight and Glare Analysis

5. Energy Consumption and HVAC Load

6. Solar Heat Gain

7. Comfort Range
4. PILOT STUDY WITH PRIMARY .
DATA:
OUTCOMES OF CBE Thermal Comfort Tool:
Comparision of Simulation Tools:
1. ASHRAE 55 Compliance
Software: Safeira,CBE Thermal Comfort
Tool. 2. Thermal Comfort Prediction

OUTCOMES OF SKETCUP SEFAIRA: 3. Evaluation of Environmental Factors

1. Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) 4. Personal Comfort Models

2. Thermal Comfort Maps 5. .Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE)

3. Operative Temperature 6. Dynamic Thermal Comfort Analysis

4. Daylight and Glare Analysis 7. Guidance for Adaptive Comfort

5. Energy Consumption and HVAC Load 8. Comparison with Benchmarks

6. Solar Heat Gain 9. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

7. Comfort Range 10. Educational Outcomes

5. BIBLIOGRAPH:
Aghniaey, S., & Lawrence, T. M. (2018). The impact of increased cooling setpoint temperature during demand response

events on occupant thermal comfort in commercial buildings: A review. Energy and Buildings, 173, 19–27.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enbuild.2018.04.068

ASHRAE-55. (2013). Thermal Environment Conditions for Human Occupancy ASHRAE-55-2013. 8400.

ASHRAE-55. (2017). Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy-2017. ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 55, 7, 60.

ASHRAE-62. (2022). ASHRAE Position Document on Indoor Carbon Dioxide. 21. https://www.ashrae.org/file

library/about/position documents/pd_indoorcarbondioxide_2022.pdf

ASHRAE Handbook. (2021). 2021 ASHRAE Handbook. Fundamentals (H. E. Kennedy (ed.); Inch-Pound). ASHRAE.

www.ashrae.org

Bena, A. A., Gillott, M., & Boukhanouf, R. (2019). Review of Strategy for Assessing the Thermal Performance of Institutional

Building Form in Hot Dry Climate of Nigeria. In SET Malaysia (Ed.), 18th International Conference on Sustainable Energy

Technologies 20th – 22nd of August 2019, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia– SET 2019 (pp. 1–10). SET Malysia.

https://doi.org/ISBN 9780853583318,
5. BIBLIOGRAPH:
Bidassey-Manilal, S., Wright, C. Y., Engelbrecht, J. C., Albers, P. N., Garland, R. M., & Matooane, M. (2016). Students’

perceived heat-health symptoms increased withwarmer classroom temperatures. International Journal of Environmental

Research and Public Health, 13(6). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph13060566

CIBSE GUIDE A. (2021). CIBSE Guide A: Environmental Design. In K. B. C. Butcher (Ed.), Incorporating corrections as of

Jan 2021 (No. 8; Eighth edi). CIBSE Publications. https://doi.org/10.5040/9781472596178-bed-e035

Dai, J., & Jiang, S. (2021). Passive space design, building environment and thermal comfort: A university building under

severe cold climate, China. Indoor and Built Environment, 30(9), 1323–1343. https://doi.org/10.1177/1420326X20939234

Derks, M., Loomans, M. G. L. C., Mishra, A. K., & Kort, H. S. M. (2017). Resolving the influential parameters of thermal

comfort perception amidst indoor-outdoor spatial transitions: Case study in a lecture room. Healthy Buildings Europe 2017,

January.

Guevara, G., Soriano, G., & Mino-Rodriguez, I. (2021). Thermal comfort in university classrooms: An experimental study

in the tropics. Building and Environment, 187(August 2020), 107430. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.buildenv.2020.107430

Heracleous, C., & 2019, A. M. P. U.-. (2019). Experimental assessment of the impact of natural ventilation on indoor air

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Jami, S., forouzandeh, N., Zomorodian, Z. S., Tahsildoost, M., & Khoshbakht, M. (2021). The effect of occupant behaviors

on energy retrofit: A case study of student dormitories in Tehran. Journal of Cleaner Production, 278, 123556.

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