Perceived Thermal Comfort in Vehicles with Glass Canopies – A User Study in High Temperature Summer Conditions

Abstract

Modern vehicles are increasingly designed with large glass surfaces, particularly panoramic canopies, raising questions about thermal comfort and user experience. This study, conducted near Barcelona during summer conditions, examined user perception of three sunroof technologies: (1) Standard canopy with a mechanical shutter in the closed position, (2) coated glass with infrared-reflective and low-emissive properties, and (3) coated glass with similar properties and switchable between clear and opaque states. The study revealed that, based on EN ISO 14505-3, thermal comfort was given across all roof configurations and the advanced thermal protection technologies (coatings, switchable) showed no statistically significant differences in perceived thermal comfort compared to a mechanical shutter. Additionally, participants preferred the switchable roof option, citing aesthetics and a cooler sensation at head level compared to the shutter solution. They also showed a higher willingness to pay for the switchable roof technology. These findings highlight the importance of integrating both physical and psychological factors in sun protection design for canopies and suggest that switchable technologies offer superior user experience. Future research should explore combinations with other coated glass surfaces such as windshields and investigate how subjective thermal perception and perceived comfort ratings vary across different regions.

Keywords: Thermal Comfort, User Study, User Experience, Automotive, Glazing, Cabin, Glass Canopy, Roller Shutter

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1007859