Climate Chambers for Research into Human Performance

From clothing to work-rest schedules

The climate chambers are equipped for empirical studies on trial subjects. In them we examine and evaluate such things as:

• the heat generated in, comfort and ergonomics of clothing and equipment: these can be existing products – e.g. if a customer wishes to purchase a particular piece of clothing or equipment – or products still under development
• the effects of extreme climate conditions on physical performance, e.g. prolonged exertion in the heat, or the risks of hypothermia when working in the cold
• the interaction between physical performance and cognitive tasks such as decision-making, information processing and awareness of surroundings
• suitable work-rest schedules for physical exertion under extreme conditions or loads

Maximizing the approximation of reality

The climate chambers are designed to be able to simulate all the appropriate climates on earth, ranging from -30°C to +60°C with relative humidity of 10% to 90%. They also have wind generators, artificial suns and infrared radiation sources. This makes the TNO climate chambers unique in the Netherlands.

We use fitness equipment, mock-ups (life-size models of designs or products), virtual reality and project-specific setups to create a test environment in the climate chambers for each experiment that provides the maximum approximation of reality. Modern monitoring equipment, well-designed questionnaires, statistical analyses and specially developed computer models make it possible to efficiently conduct scientific analyses and tests as well as answer questions.

Trend-setting results

The research in the climate chambers has made a substantial contribution to the development of the new military kit now being procured by the Ministry of Defence. It helps to optimize working in protective clothing, for both the armed services and other first response organizations (national and international). Dutch top-level athletes also use the climate chambers to optimally prepare for their performance in challenging environmental conditions such as during the summer in Japan.

Would you like to improve the deployability of your personnel, or select the ideal clothing or equipment? Get in touch with Eduard Winckers.