Realizing Visual Comfort Parameters and Adaptive Thermal Comfort Models for Hot Climates

One of the main requirements that buildings must comply with is the stipulation of a safe and comfortable indoor environment. The study presented in this chapter focuses on the assessment of two important and substantial axes defining comfort: thermal and visual comfort. The bioclimatic design method for buildings mandates that designers use the surrounding environment throughout the year to achieve the appropriate level of thermal comfort for occupants. The analysis presented in this chapter outlines the distinct visual parameters adopted in the examined tools and investigates the climate characteristics of African regions using different thermal adaptive models. The available comfort models were realized in different African countries to understand how the ranges of comfort temperatures differ with the different adaptive models. The realization of a comfort range more suitable to warmer climates can help reduce cooling loads significantly. Results showed that, depending on ASHRAE’s model, which is usually suited for cooler climates, in hot climates would require the massive, and in many circumstances, long-lasting use of air conditioning systems. Santy and Karyono’s models work best in hot climates. In spaces where slightly higher comfort temperatures can be more tolerable and reducing cooling loads is a more critical target, Indraganti, Nguyen, and Humphreys models can be best utilized. The study can serve as a guideline for architects, designers, and engineers when designing a bioclimatic building.