Spatial variation in Thermal Comfort Assessment of Building in Erbil and Soran cities Using (PMV-UTCI) Indexes – A comparative study-

Abstract

Thermal comfort is defined as the state at which comfort is achieved, occurring when the body temperature is maintained around 37°C (96.8°F) without experiencing any sweating or severe muscular shivering. In general, factors influencing thermal comfort include temperature, humidity, and air movement in the studied locations. These findings can be utilized in environmental design to enhance the thermal comfort of local populations, thereby promoting sustainability and well-being in the region. In addition, the quality of metabolic activity resulting from human actions and the clothing worn by individuals provides the six fundamental factors (sometimes referred to as the six primary parameters) that define human thermal environments. To analyze thermal comfort in the cities of Erbil and Soran, field observations were conducted to measure certain climatic elements. Thermal comfort was simulated using the PMV and UTCI indices with the digital simulation program Grasshopper 3D. Based on the available field data and simulation results using the PMV and UTCI indices, it is evident that thermal comfort varies depending on the season and location. In Erbil, the PMV index indicates warm temperatures in summer and slightly cool temperatures in winter. On the other hand, the UTCI index suggests severe thermal stress in summer and mild cold stress in winter. In Soran, the PMV results show slightly warm temperatures in summer and cool temperatures in winter. According to the UTCI index, there is mild thermal stress in summer and moderate cold stress in winter.