Optimization of airflow organization in the passenger cabin of special vehicles based on human thermal sensation

Special vehicles play a critical role in accomplishing ground-based missions. However, unevenly distributed high temperatures within the cabin environment significantly impact the thermal comfort and work efficiency of personnel. This paper investigates the thermal management of special vehicles by proposing various airflow organization schemes achieved through the strategic placement of air vents. Experiments and computational simulations were conducted, tailored to the specific operational scenarios of these vehicles. To objectively assess the influence of return air vent configuration on the thermal comfort and work performance of cabin personnel, a weighted Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) index was incorporated into the analysis, leveraging established human thermal sensation models. Integrating the results of the cabin thermal environment simulations with the PMV evaluations, the study identifies the most effective air distribution scheme, one that prioritizes the work efficiency of the crew. The findings indicate that eight evenly distributed air supply outlets positioned above the cabin and two air return outlets positioned under the driver's seat, optimizes the airflow patterns, velocity fields, temperature distribution, and ultimately the weighted PMV within the cabin. This configuration ensures that the thermal environment falls largely within the acceptable range for sustaining crew work efficiency. • Incorporating a Weighted Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) Index into Specialty Vehicle Vent Effectiveness Analysis. • The results of the cabin thermal environment simulation were combined with the PMV assessment to prioritize crew efficiency and determine the most efficient air distribution scheme. • Adopting a multi pronged approach of experimental verification, numerical analysis, CFD optimization, and comfort evaluation for research.