Toward Human Thermal Comfort: An Adaptive Solar‐Radiative Thermoregulator

Y Yang Li Z Zhuoyuan Zhang S Sai Liu M Meng Li C Chi‐Yan Tso (School of Energy and Environment City University of Hong Kong Kowloon Hong Kong China) D Deqing Mei K Keqiao Li B Baoling Huang (Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering)

Abstract

ABSTRACT While adaptive thermoregulators are promising green solutions for buildings, current designs often focus solely on air temperature, neglecting the multifaceted nature of human thermal sensation. Here, we proposed a thermal‐comfort‐oriented design paradigm that integrates responsiveness to multiple environmental stimuli, including temperature, humidity, and solar irradiance. We demonstrated a proof‐of‐concept thermoregulator capable of perceiving environmental changes and adjusting its configuration accordingly, offering a stepless thermal regulation potential within a range of 824 W m −2 (heating) to −114 W m −2 (cooling). Field tests affirmed that model houses with this intelligent thermoregulator could maintain thermal comfort for up to 6 h with zero energy consumption during the daytime. The device also exhibited exceptional mechanical strength, adhesion properties, and resistance to adverse weather conditions, ensuring its service reliability. Simulations indicate the device can reduce energy consumption by 15%–50% compared to standard roofs while maintaining indoor thermal comfort across different climates worldwide, highlighting the great potential of multi‐stimuli‐responsive thermoregulators for building thermal management.

Article Details

Volume / Issue Vol. 38, Issue 33
Published June 01, 2026
ISSN 0935-9648
Publisher Unknown Publisher

Journal Info

Advanced Materials

Unknown Publisher

ISSN: 0935-9648 Physical Sciences

Authors (8)

Y

Yang Li

Z

Zhuoyuan Zhang

S

Sai Liu

M

Meng Li

C

Chi‐Yan Tso

School of Energy and Environment City University of Hong Kong Kowloon Hong Kong China

D

Deqing Mei

K

Keqiao Li

B

Baoling Huang

Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering