The Influence of thermal disposition on the thermal comfort of users in hybrid ventilated environments

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of thermal disposition on the thermal comfort of users in an office building with hybrid ventilation located in Florianópolis/Brazil. Statistical analyses were conducted, with the help of Tableau Software, on data collected in the field through electronic questionnaires. The users were categorized into four groups with different thermal sensitivities in order to assess the thermal behaviors and in relation to the use of natural ventilation and air-conditioning in the environment, during the intermediate seasons of the year (spring and autumn). The results demonstrated that natural ventilation offers a broader range of thermal acceptability, while air-conditioning promotes a more restricted range. These differences highlight how the modes of operation influence the perception of thermal comfort and overall acceptability. The cases of thermal discomfort demonstrated that personal thermal dispositions are influenced by individual preferences and different seasons.