Analysing the impact of cloth fabrics on skin temperature during and after exercise using an FDM model

Abstract

This study presents a 1D finite difference model that examines the influence of cloth fabrics on skin temperature during and after exercise, considering the complex nature of the human body and its susceptibility to infections and viruses. The aim is to design comfortable, high-quality fabrics that minimize potential issues caused by body temperature fluctuations. The model incorporates various physical, physiological, and thermal parameters of cloth to develop protective clothing suitable for exercise. Numerical results were compared to previous studies that analyzed skin temperature without clothing to validate the model’s accuracy. The findings indicate a minimal difference in skin temperature when wearing cotton and polyester cloth, with polyester fabric demonstrating superior characteristics such as stretchability, durability, and sweat resistance. The thermal information obtained from this model can be utilized to design appropriate clothing for diverse weather conditions, ultimately enhancing the performance and comfort of athletes, military personnel, and individuals engaged in physically demanding work. Additionally, the model can aid in developing thermal stress protocols for infection treatment and provide guidelines for physical activity to promote healthy living. This research contributes to the field of materials research by offering valuable insights into the design and development of protective clothing for exercise. By understanding the impact of cloth fabrics on skin temperature, advancements can be made in creating clothing that optimizes human comfort and performance.