A mathematical model for predicting the total insulation value of a bedding system

The total insulation value of a bedding system is a significant factor affecting the neutral temperature in a sleeping thermal environment. This paper reports on a study of developing a mathematical model for predicting the total insulation values of various bedding systems. The factors influencing the total insulation value of a bedding system such as the percentage coverage over a human body, types of bed with mattress and bedding, etc., were included in the model. The predicted total insulation values using the model developed were compared with the experimental results previously obtained in a related study. It was shown that the predicted total insulation values of different bedding systems agreed well with the experimental values. A statistics analysis further suggested that the mathematical model developed was able to predict the total insulation values of different bedding systems with an acceptable accuracy. Finally, using the model developed the impacts of key influencing factors on the total insulation value of a bedding system were assessed.Department of Building Services Engineerin