What is it about?
This study investigates how changing human metabolic rates affect indoor environmental quality (IEQ) in an office room using numerical modeling. Unlike traditional methods that assume constant heat from the body, this research considers dynamic metabolic rates and their impact on temperature. Findings show that even small increases in metabolic rate can cause noticeable temperature rises. After physical activity, it takes about 8.5 to 10.9 minutes for a person’s metabolic rate to stabilize, but IEQ takes longer to recover. Poorly designed buildings may take up to 71 minutes for IEQ to stabilize, while using square-shaped inlet vents can reduce this time by 60.5%, improving comfort and indoor air quality.
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Why is it important?
It is important because understanding the effect of changing metabolic rates helps improve indoor comfort and air quality, especially in naturally ventilated buildings. People’s physical activity directly influences the heat and airflow inside a room. If these changes aren’t managed properly, it can lead to discomfort and poor indoor conditions. By designing better ventilation systems, like using square-shaped inlet vents, we can reduce the time it takes for a room to return to a comfortable state after someone has been active. This is crucial for maintaining health, productivity, and comfort in office environments.
Perspectives
From a broader perspective, this study emphasizes the need to consider dynamic human behavior, like changing metabolic rates—when designing indoor environments. Traditional models that assume constant heat generation may not accurately reflect real-world conditions. By integrating more realistic assumptions, such as transient metabolic activity, designers and engineers can create ventilation systems that respond more effectively to real-time changes. This approach supports sustainable building design by enhancing energy efficiency and ensuring consistent indoor environmental quality (IEQ). Moreover, it can influence future standards and policies for thermal comfort, particularly in naturally ventilated buildings with limited mechanical control.
Dr. Abhijeet Ganesh Ghogare
Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: CFD analysis of natural ventilation’s role in modulating transient metabolic rate and enhancing indoor comfort, Energy Sources Part A Recovery Utilization and Environmental Effects, February 2025, Taylor & Francis,
DOI: 10.1080/15567036.2025.2462274.
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