New, Optimized Skin Calorimeter Version for Measuring Thermal Responses of Localized Skin Areas during Physical Activity

Abstract

We present an optimized version of the skin calorimeter for measuring localized skin thermal responses during physical activity. Enhancements include a new holding system, more sensitive thermopiles, and an upgraded spiked heat sink for improved efficiency. In addition, we used a new, improved calorimetric model that takes into account all the variables that influence the measurement process. Resolution in power measurement is 1 mW. Performance tests under air currents and movement disturbances showed that the device maintains high accuracy; the deviation produced by these significant disturbances is less than 5%. Human subject tests, both at rest and during exercise, confirmed its ability to accurately measure localized skin heat flux, heat capacity, and thermal resistance (less than 5% uncertainty). These findings highlight the calorimeter’s potential for applications in sports medicine and physiological studies.

Keywords

• conduction calorimetry
• direct calorimetry
• skin heat flux
• skin calorimeter
• skin thermal properties
• sports medicine sensors