Are wearable local cooling devices effective in Chinese residential kitchens during hot summer?

Abstract

Chinese residential kitchens often suffer from poor thermal conditions during the summer, resulting in severe thermal discomfort for those cooking. Personal Comfort Systems (PCS) provide an alternative solution to traditional air-conditioning, but their applicability in actual kitchens has yet to be thoroughly evaluated. This study first measured thermal sensitivities of different body areas in real kitchen settings. It was found the thermal sensitivities were consistently higher in the kitchen than in an air-conditioned room with neck identified as one of the most sensitive areas. Next, two neck-specific wearable PCSs, a Neck-cooler and a Neck-fan, were assessed for their cooling effects using a variety of thermal metrics. Both devices significantly improved the overall thermal sensation and comfort for the wearers, yet neither could singularly provide ideal thermal comfort nor thermal neutrality. The Neck-fan outperformed the Neck-cooler in elevating the overall thermal comfort. Notably, overcooling was observed with the Neck-cooler as it raised the local thermal sensations in other areas of the body. This work contributes to the development and selection of appropriate wearable PCS for cooks during hot summer.