Effects of Changes in the Thermal Factor on Arousal Level and Thermal Comfort

Indoor thermal quality affects not only a person´s perception of comfort, but also their level of arousal, work performance and health. Therefore, it is important that thermal factors are controlled and that a thermal environment is designed in accordance with its purpose. In this study, we aim to design a thermal environment that improves both the arousal level and thermal comfort of the occupants. In order to confirm the possibility that changes in thermal factors can improve both the arousal level and thermal comfort, we investigated the relationships between the physiological parameters, subjective sensation, and the performance of tasks. Specifically, we directed participants to perform a mathematical task and an evaluation of subjective sensation relating to their comfort level and arousal level. Simultaneously, the physiological indices of the participants such as their skin temperature and respiration rate were measured, and tests such as electroencephalography (EEG) and electrocardiography (ECG) were conducted throughout several conditions of changes in the thermal factors. Through the results of our study, we confirm that the relationship between comfort sensation and arousal level corresponds to changes in the thermal factors, we carried out a quantitative and continuous evaluation of a person´s comfort sensation and arousal level using physiological indices.