Human thermal adaptive behaviour in naturally ventilated offices for different outdoor air temperatures: A case study in Changsha China

The present study gave a comprehensive insight into the relationship between human thermal adaptive behaviour and the change of climate conditions. A long-term survey was carried out from Jan. 2010 to Feb. 2011 in two naturally ventilated offices, located in Changsha, China. During the survey, occupants’ thermal adaptive behaviour (use of various controls) was investigated daily. The controls included window, door, curtain, fan, hand heater and air-conditioner. Relativity analysis indicated that outdoor air temperature is the most important climate parameter that caused the use of controls. The effects of outdoor air temperature on the use of each control were further analyzed from three aspects: usage proportion, usage degree and transition of control state. Based on the analysis, the characteristics of the thermal adaptive behaviour in the offices were revealed. And also, the differences between the two offices located in different types of building were discussed. The results of this study are helpful to adapt the built environment in naturally ventilated buildings to the change of climate conditions.

► Outdoor temperature is the most important climate parameter to cause control usage.
► Usage proportion, usage degree and transition of state were analyzed for controls.
► Significant differences in control usage were found between different offices.
► Characteristics of the thermal adaptive behaviour in the offices were revealed.