Determining temperature ratings for children's cold weather clothing.
This study examined the physical and physiological differences between children and adults that affect body heat generation and losses and then developed a heat loss model for determining the temperature ratings of cold weather clothing designed for use by children of various ages. The thermal insulation values of selected jackets were measured using a heated manikin dressed in two base ensembles, and the temperature ratings were calculated using the model. The results indicated that the type of garments used in the base ensemble had a major effect on jacket ensemble insulation and the predicted comfort temperature. For a given level of insulation, the temperature rating decreased as the wearer's age and activity level increased. This is probably because children have a higher surface area per unit mass ratio than adults, and they lose heat faster. However, this effect is partially offset by their higher metabolic rates.
McCullough
Elizabeth A
EA
Kansas State University, Institute for Environmental Research, 64 Seaton Hall, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA. lizm@ksu.edu
Eckels
Steve
S
Harms
Craig
C
D000222:Adaptation, Physiological; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D001831:Body Temperature; D001833:Body Temperature Regulation; D002648:Child; D003080:Cold Temperature; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008348:Manikins; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D011481:Protective Clothing / Q000592:standards*; D013696:Temperature; D014481:United States; D055815:Young Adult