Thermodynamic perspective on human-building interaction entropy, comfort and energy flow

Abstract

This study presents a thermodynamic interpretation of how humans and buildings interact, focusing on entropy dynamics, comfort perception, and internal energy exchanges. Human thermal adaptation is treated as an open, non-equilibrium process in which energy and matter are continuously exchanged to sustain thermal stability. Physiological and behavioral adjustments are therefore described as entropy-modulating actions that influence both comfort and system performance. By considering the combined human–environment domain, the total entropy balance may become locally positive or negative while still adhering to the second law of thermodynamics at the universal scale. Entropy generation is employed as a diagnostic variable for assessing human thermal stress, comfort response, and overall energy quality within indoor environments. The resulting framework integrates human adaptation and building physics, enabling a coherent evaluation of comfort, efficiency, and sustainability in low-exergy design.