The definition of thermal comfort, according to the ASHRAE Standard 55-2004, is this:
The condition of mind that expresses satisfaction with the thermal environment, and is assessed by subjective evaluation.
Thermal comfort is an important consideration in the design and layout of dwellings that are occupied by people. Examples of such spaces include offices, homes, libraries, stadiums, and department stores. It is a way to characterize specific conditions in which a known fraction of occupants will find the environment thermally acceptable. Several factors are considered when assessing thermal comfort:
|
Environmental factors |
Personal factors |
|
Temperature |
Activity Level |
|
Thermal radiation |
Clothing |
|
Relative humidity |
|
|
Ambient air velocity |
The environmental factors are computed by simulating the flow and heat transfer within the enclosure. Relative humidity and the personal factors are specified quantities.
ASHRAE Standard 55-2004
http://www.globalspec.com/reference/13800/121073/chapter-6-4-1-mean-radiant-temperature.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mean_radiant_temperature