The 'HVAC' manikin is a multi-sensor passive device with an anatomically shaped body equipped with sensors to measure air temperature, air velocity, and total and solar radiant heat flux at 46 body locations, as well as relative humidity at 4 locations. It is portable, easy to dismantle, and suitable for both laboratory and field studies, including use in confined spaces.

The HVAC manikin can be used to:

• Assess the thermal exposure of the human body, including the separation of convective and radiant heat transfer effects;
• Compare thermal exposure across different configurations or prototypes, such as transportation cabins or personalized comfort systems;
• Simulate thermo-physiological responses and comfort levels when combined with mathematical models of human thermoregulation and thermal comfort.
   

Kocik, S., Psikuta, A., & Ferdyn-Grygierek, J. (2025). Human body area view factors for radiative heat transfer: influence of body region, shape, and posture. Building and Environment, 281, 113200 (13 pp.) DOI

• Empa News Portal, 15 August 2024,
  Manikins: Sensortechnologie für das wohltemperierte Büro, «HVAC» kommt ins Schwitzen by A. Six
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  Manikins – Sensortechnologie für das wohltemperierte Büro: «HVAC» kommt ins Schwitzen
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  Manikins – Sensortechnologie für das wohltemperierte Büro: «HVAC» kommt ins Schwitzen by A. Six
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