Thermal comfort is a critical aspect of indoor environment design, significantly influencing occupant well-being and productivity. Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), it is possible to analyze complex airflow patterns, temperature distributions, and local comfort parameters such as air velocity and perceived temperature in great detail.
CFD simulations provide insights into factors like heat sources, cold bridges, solar radiation, and ventilation systems. By visualizing flow fields and calculating comfort indices (e.g., based on ISO 7730), potential discomfort issues such as drafts or overheating can be identified and addressed during the design phase.
This approach is particularly valuable for optimizing ventilation and air-conditioning systems, enabling the simulation of multiple scenarios to develop the most effective solution for thermal comfort. CFD simulations are applicable in a wide range of settings, from office buildings and residential spaces to industrial facilities.