OEM&Lieferant Ausgabe 1/2026

prototypes are often lacking in early development phases, while fully coupled CFD/FE models can take several days to weeks of computing time, limiting the possibility of iterative optimization. The multi-air zone model presented here offers decisive advantages:  Automatic or manual zoning for relevant areas  CFD-based heat transfer coefficients for convection  AI-supported ventilation matrix for changing operating conditions  Coupling with a thermophysiological human model according to Fiala This interaction enables near real-time simulations of thermal interior behavior with high physical validity. Typical scenarios such as defrosting, rapid heating strategies or comfort comparisons can be simulated within about an hour – instead of several days with conventional approaches. Validation: High accuracy with drastically reduced computing time An exemplary defrost operating case over 30 minutes with dynamic air volume, distribution and temperature progression demonstrates the performance of the model. A cabin mock-up with air conditioning unit and 21 thermocouples as well as the ARRK comfort dummy were used for validation. The temporal progression of air temperatures at the measurement points of the comfort dummy (see Fig. 2) corresponds very well with the simulation results in most areas of the body:  < 1 K deviation in the head and upper body area  up to 2.8 K deviation in the footwell due to local inhomogeneities  Realistic comfort response of the Fiala model for different body segments The comfort model shows rapid thermal relief in the head area, while lower body regions react with a delay, whereby the quality of the results is currently still being optimized. The combination of the multi-air zone model and thermophysiological calculation enables a reliable assessment of the interior climate and comfort. The high degree of consistency proves that physical consistency is maintained, even though the calculation times are orders of magnitude shorter than for fully coupled CFD/FE simulations. Summary The real-time capable multiair zone climate model in Theseus-FE enables, for the first time, a fast, physically sound assessment of the interior climate already in the early stages of vehicle development. The combination of zonal modelling, CFD-based parameterization, AI-supported ventilation matrix and thermophysiological comfort assessment allows climate strategies to be designed efficiently without relying on real prototypes. The drastic reduction in computing times, high model accuracy and the ability to quickly analyze variants lead to significant time and cost savings. This not only increases the efficiency of the development process – companies also gain a noticeably higher level of competitiveness on the international market. ARRK Engineering GmbH https://engineering.arrk.com/de  Fig. 2 Image: © ARRK Engineering GmbH • finexus® – Nonwovens for lightweight and sustainable molded parts • Absorber nonwovens for acoustical and thermal insulation • Upholstery nonwovens for foam replacement • Efficient media for air and liquid filtration Excellence in Mobility sandler-group.com Filtration Sound Insulation Thermal Insulation Upholstery

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