Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
263269 Energy and Buildings 2013 10 Pages PDF
Abstract

Applying low exergy cooling concepts in the built environment allows reduction of use of high quality energy sources. Non-uniform thermal conditions, which may occur due to application of lowex systems, can result in discomfort. Two different cooling principles were studied: passive (through convection in terms of increased air velocities) and active cooling (through convection or radiation). Furthermore, two different ventilation techniques were included: mixing and displacement ventilation. Ten male subjects (age: 20–29) were exposed to six different cases: (1) PC-C-M; passive cooling through mixing ventilation, (2) AC-C-M; active cooling through convection by mixing ventilation, (3) AC-C-D; active cooling through convection by displacement ventilation, (4) AC-R-M-C; active cooling through radiation by the ceiling and mixing ventilation, (5) AC-R-M-F; active cooling through radiation by the floor and mixing ventilation, and (6) AC-R-D-F; active cooling through radiation by the floor and displacement ventilation.Though all cases were designed at PMV ≈ 0, subjective data indicate significant differences between the cases. For the prediction of thermal sensation and thermal comfort under non-uniform conditions, the operative temperature only is not sufficient. Combined local factors play an important role in the comfort assessment. Furthermore, non-uniform environments, as case 6, can achieve a comparable or even a more comfortable assessment compared to uniform environments.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Application of high temperature cooling systems can result in discomfort. ► Non-uniform environments can achieve a comfortable assessment. ► Thermal sensations differ significantly between the cases, although PMV ≈ 0. ► Combined local factors play an important role in the comfort assessment. ► Prudence is required to design comfortable conditions if low energy systems are applied.

Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering Energy Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
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