Statistical analysis of turbulent thermal convection in a cabin mockup

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of the heat dissipation of thermal manikins on the flow field in a seven-row cabin mockup that was fully occupied by thermal manikins. Temperature data from the cabin mockup, as measured by thermocouples, were analyzed using statistical methods for elucidation of the turbulence characteristics of the thermal plumes of manikins. The characteristics of the thermal plumes are illustrated by the skewness factors of the temperature signal. The results indicate the characteristics of the thermal plume from the torso differ from those from the thigh. A thin layer (approximately 5 mm) of the thermal plume was observed around the human torso. Further, thermal plumes were more fully developed at the thigh than the torso. The results contribute to the understanding of airflow patterns influenced by thermal plumes near the head, chest, abdomen and thigh.