Enhancing indoor thermal comfort education : a virtual reality platform introducing Fanger's model

Abstract

This study introduces an immersive Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) utilizing Virtual Reality (VR) to educate building service engineering students on indoor thermal comfort. Integrated with Fanger's Predicted Mean Vote Model, the VLE offers a multi-user platform with interactive interfaces spanning theoretical concepts to real-world application. Through Unity, users manipulate virtual environment parameters, gaining practical thermal comfort assessment experience. By merging theory and practice within VR, it deepens understanding of indoor environmental quality's impact on human comfort. Leveraging Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) principles, the VLE ensures intuitive interaction using interactive system and tools, notably User Interface Toolkits (UIT). Virtual Reality enhances engagement and learning outcomes, providing a realistic, immersive environment. Incorporating Fanger's model offers a structured approach to analyze indoor thermal conditions, fostering critical thinking. This research showcases VR's potential in teaching building service engineering and indoor environmental quality.