Development of a Test Procedure for Quantifying Performance Benefits of Solar Control Glazings on Occupant Comfort

Hymore, Ronald R.; Tweadey, Robert F.; Wozniak, Donald F.

doi:10.4271/910536

Cited by 2 publications

(1 citation statement)

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“…Based upon geographical location, time of year, and ambient weather conditions, the air temperature inside a car that has been sitting in the sun often exceeds 100° F (37.8° C), and in many cases can reach as high as 140° F (60° C) (Young & Van Esso, 1989;Hymore, Tweadey, & Wozniak, 1991;Moyer, 1995). This greenhouse-like phenomenon carries implications not only for the comfort of vehicle occupants, but also for issues such as fuel economy and engine size-higher temperatures result in increased demands on the vehicle's air conditioning (A/C) system.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Radiant Heat and Thermal Comfort in Vehicles

Devonshire

Sayer

2005

Hum Factors

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Infrared-reflective (IRR) treatment of automotive glass has been shown to reduce air temperature in vehicle cabins, thereby increasing fuel economy and occupant comfort. Its effect on radiant heat, however, may augment these benefits. In this study, the hypothesis that radiant heat affects subjective comfort ratings in a vehicle was tested. IRR films were systematically applied to the driver-side window of an outdoor stationary vehicle. In Phase 1, cabin air temperature was controlled while participants rated their thermal comfort. In Phase 2, air temperature was adjusted according to participants' responses. Results in Phase 1 showed that the IRR treatment improved thermal comfort on the left forearm, which was exposed to direct solar irradiance, but not whole-body thermal comfort. In Phase 2, participants indicated that they were comfortable at a higher air temperature (mean of 2.5 degrees F [1.4 degrees C]) with the IRR treatment than in the untreated condition. The results indicate that reducing radiant heat via IRR treatment affects subjective assessments of thermal comfort and allows occupants to maintain the same level of comfort in a warmer vehicle cabin. Applications of this research include future implementations of IRR treatment on automotive glass that may lead to greater fuel economy savings and occupant comfort than have previously been estimated.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%