Comparison of two human thermoregulation models using stable and transient conditions

In this research, two human thermoregulation models, the JOS-2 model and 33 node comfort model (33 NCM), were compared to determine the effects on predicted values when using different human physiology modeling approaches. Seven test cases, including uniform and stable conditions, and transient steps to hot and cold, were tested in order to observe the performance of the models using various thermal conditions. Predicted skin and core temperatures were compared to each other and to experimental data from human subjects in previously published studies. The comparisons showed that both the JOS-2 and 33 NCM could serve as a good basis for a physiological model used to determine thermal sensation and comfort. A detailed vascular model, such as that implemented in JOS-2, appears to help accurately predict core temperature. Implementation of the hysteresis effect into human thermoregulation models would improve the accuracy of prediction where thermal transient boundary conditions with higher temperature steps are used, especially on the distal portion of the extremities.