predictive models

This paper presents different thermal comfort models and empirical verification for assessment of the thermal conditions of transitional spaces in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. The method adopted is deductive, performing simulations of predictive models, and experimental inductive, considering field research of micro-climatic variables and subjective answers.

A large number of indices have been developed to assess human bioclimatic conditions. The indices that could be considered valid in all climate and seasons are those that are based on calculations involving the heat balance equation. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the performance of selected existing indices based on body’s energy balance, in an outdoor built environment. A field questionnaire survey was carried out simultaneously with microclimatic measurements in a street canyon located in the centre of Athens, Greece.