Effects of humidity control and simulated natural airflow on indoor dynamic thermal comfort

This study investigates the combined effect of humidity control and simulated natural airflow on human thermal comfort in indoor thermal environments. A custom-built device was developed to simulate natural wind while controlling spray volume under varying ambient temperatures (27°C–30°C) and relative humidity levels (40–60%). 12 participants were subjected to 24 experimental conditions, and their thermal comfort and airflow preferences were evaluated using structured questionnaires. The results indicated that when the temperature exceeded 28°C and humidity reached 60%, increasing airflow had a more significant impact on comfort than adjusting spray volume. Conversely, at temperatures below 28°C, adjusting spray volume significantly enhanced comfort. These findings provide insights into optimizing indoor climate control systems, offering practical applications for reducing energy consumption while maintaining occupant comfort. Practical Application By exploring the combined effects of temperature, humidity, and airflow on thermal comfort, new insights can be provided for optimizing indoor climate control systems. The findings from this study have practical implications for designing energy-efficient cooling systems that prioritize occupant comfort, especially in regions with warm and humid climates.