Utilizing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for simulating airflow and heat distribution to enhance thermal comfort in enclosed space

Abstract This study uses computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to simulate airflow and thermal parameters in enclosed spaces to evaluate and improve thermal comfort in HVAC systems. The two main indices, Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) and Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfaction (PPD), are accurately calculated by integrating CFD results with factors such as clothing insulation, metabolic rate, humidity, and mean radiant temperature. Results are compared with previous studies and introduce a new approach to simulating airflow and heat distribution to enhance thermal comfort in enclosed spaces. The thermal comfort of each manikin is assessed according to ASHRAE 55 standards. Despite some limitations, this research serves as a valuable reference for applying CFD in HVAC system design. Simulations were conducted using the student version of ANSYS Fluent.