Climate chambers

From clothing to work-rest schedules

The climate chambers are suitable for experimental studies involving human participants. Here, we investigate and evaluate, among other things:

• The heat stress, wearing comfort, and ergonomics of clothing and equipment. This may involve existing products, for example when a client is considering purchasing a specific item, or products that are still in development;
• The effects of extreme climatic conditions on physical performance, such as prolonged exertion in heat or the risks of hypothermia when working in cold environments;
• The interaction between physical performance and cognitive tasks, such as decision-making, information processing, and situational awareness;
• Appropriate work-rest schedules for physical exertion under extreme conditions or loads.

Simulating reality as closely as possible

The climate chambers are designed to replicate all relevant climates on earth, ranging from -30°C to +60°C with relative humidity levels between 10 and 90 percent. They are also equipped with wind generators, artificial suns, and infrared radiation sources. This makes the TNO climate chambers a unique facility in the Netherlands.

Using fitness equipment, mock-ups (full-scale models of designs or products), virtual reality, and project-specific setups, we create a test environment in the climate chambers that closely simulates real-life conditions for each experiment. Modern measuring equipment, well-designed questionnaires, statistical analyses, and specially developed computer models enable efficient scientific testing and analysis to address complex questions.

Cutting-edge results

Research conducted in the climate chambers has significantly contributed to the development of the new soldier system currently being procured by the Ministry of Defence. It also supports the optimisation of working in protective clothing, both for Defence and other emergency support services (national and international). Additionally, national top athletes train in our climate chambers to prepare optimally for performing under challenging climatic conditions, such as those experienced during the Summer Olympics in Japan in 2021.

Would you like to enhance the deployability of your personnel or select the optimal clothing or equipment? Contact us!