Evaluation of Neutral Temperature and Adaptive Behaviors in Transitional Spaces of Educational Buildings During One Year (Case Study: Isfahan University of Technology)

Subject Areas :

Sanaz Motalaei ¹ , meghedi khodabakhshyan konaraki ^{2 *} , Fatemeh Alsadat Majidi ³ , مهدیه آب روش ⁴

1 - Ph.D. Student, Department of Architecture, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran
2 - Department of Architecture, Isfahan (khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.
3 - Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran
4 - Assistant Professor, Faculty of Architecture, College of Fine Arts, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

Received: 2024-11-11 Accepted : 2025-06-22 Published : 2025-12-14

Keywords: Adaptive Thermal Comfort, Adaptive Behaviors, Thermal Adaptation, Educational Building, Closed Transitional Spaces,

Abstract :

Achieving a more precise design requires understanding the principles of thermal adaptation of individuals, their behaviors, and interactions with the environment. Intermediate spaces in contemporary buildings are highly important and act as bridges between indoor and outdoor environments. These spaces not only serve as passages but are recognized as multi-purpose areas. Therefore, this article analyzes the adaptive behaviors of individuals in enclosed intermediate spaces of Isfahan University of Technology, in two types of faculties differing in terms of ventilation in enclosed intermediate spaces. This research included a cross-sectional study and on-site measurements to determine neutral temperature and adaptive behaviors inside the building over one year. The observed behavioral changes in each season in faculties with natural ventilation included: increasing layers of clothing in spring, opening windows for cross-ventilation or using cold beverages in summer, using warm beverages or increasing activity in autumn, and rubbing hands together or utilizing clothing features (like pockets or hats) for winter. These actions for faculties with mechanical ventilation included: reducing outerwear layers in spring, autumn, and winter, and opening windows in summer. Additionally, the neutral temperature in enclosed intermediate spaces is 23.5 degrees Celsius, which is 0.35 higher than the neutral temperature obtained from the thermal comfort model. In general, the results of this study indicate that in enclosed intermediate spaces, the PMV model cannot accurately estimate the thermal comfort of individuals, and it is better to use the AMV model for more accurate results.

Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of considering human thermal comfort in architectural design, particularly in enclosed intermediate spaces. It underscores the need for adaptive design strategies to create environments that support occupants' well-being throughout the year. Implementing such strategies can enhance user satisfaction and productivity while promoting sustainable building practices.

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