Thermal Comfort Sensitivity of Human Position for Cabin HVAC Design

Efficient cabin HVAC design is critical for modern vehicles—especially electric vehicles (xEVs), where climate-control energy consumption directly impacts driving range. Achieving accurate predictions of human thermal comfort is made possible with TAITherm and the Human Thermal Extension, which model key human factors such as physiological size, activity level, and clothing insulation. With so many variables influencing cabin climate simulations, engineers face a key question: Should human occupant position be treated as a critical input when evaluating cabin comfort and HVAC energy usage?

In this webinar, our experts use TAITherm, the Human Thermal Module, and RapidFlow to investigate how occupant position affects perceived comfort and thermal sensation. We’ll analyze three unique occupant positions in a cabin cool-down scenario and compare results to determine whether position significantly influences comfort outcomes. We will conclude with actionable guidance and best practices for setting up cabin HVAC simulations that optimize both energy efficiency and passenger comfort.

Key topics include:
• Importance of cabin HVAC simulation for xEV efficiency and range
• Modeling human thermal comfort using TAITherm and the Human Thermal Extension
• Evaluating human factors such as size, activity level, and clothing in climate simulations
• Comparing multiple occupant positions during a cabin cool-down scenario
• Interpreting comfort and sensation metrics to improve HVAC design
• Best practices for energy-efficient, comfort-focused cabin modeling

Join us to learn how advanced thermal simulation can enhance HVAC performance, reduce energy consumption, and improve comfort across EV cabin designs.