Assessment of body mapping sportswear using a manikin operated in constant temperature mode and thermoregulatory model control mode

Int J Biometeorol. 2014 Sep;58(7):1673-82. doi: 10.1007/s00484-013-0774-4. Epub 2013 Dec 20.

Abstract

Regional sweating patterns and body surface temperature differences exist between genders. Traditional sportswear made from one material and/or one fabric structure has a limited ability to provide athletes sufficient local wear comfort. Body mapping sportswear consists of one piece of multiple knit structure fabric or of different fabric pieces that may provide athletes better wear comfort. In this study, the 'modular' body mapping sportswear was designed and subsequently assessed on a 'Newton' type sweating manikin that operated in both constant temperature mode and thermophysiological model control mode. The performance of the modular body mapping sportswear kit and commercial products were also compared. The results demonstrated that such a modular body mapping sportswear kit can meet multiple wear/thermal comfort requirements in various environmental conditions. All body mapping clothing (BMC) presented limited global thermophysiological benefits for the wearers. Nevertheless, BMC showed evident improvements in adjusting local body heat exchanges and local thermal sensations.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Body Surface Area
  • Body Temperature Regulation*
  • Clothing*
  • Cotton Fiber
  • Humidity
  • Manikins*
  • Microclimate
  • Polyesters
  • Polyurethanes
  • Skin Temperature
  • Temperature
  • Wool

Substances

  • Polyesters
  • Polyurethanes