Potential of neuro-fuzzy methodology for forecasting of outdoor thermal comfort index at urban open spaces

Abstract Thermal comfort in open urban areas could influence medical, sociological, environmental and economic parameters. Therefore there is need to establish good thermal comfort in the areas to maintain the parameters at acceptable levels. Since the thermal comfort is variable, there is need to determine which parameters has the most impact on the thermal comfort variations. Hence in this article an attempt was made to rank parameters based on their influence on the thermal comfort. Prediction of thermal comfort was performed based on the parameters' ranking models. Physiological equivalent temperature (PET) was used as the thermal comfort indicator. Air temperature, vapor pressure, wind speed, irradiance are the inputs which are used in the investigation among others. Neuro-fuzzy methodology was used for the PET analyzing. Obtained results could have practical advantage for urban planners and designers to make the best thermal comfort for visitors in open urban areas.