Abstract: A total air temperature sensor includes a probe secured to a first side of a vehicle surface. The probe includes an air inlet and a temperature sensing element. Air flows into the air inlet and passes by the temperature sensing element. The temperature sensing element produces a temperature sensing element electrical signal as a function of a temperature of the air. The total air temperature sensor also includes an electronics package secured to a second side of the vehicle surface. Electronics in the electronics package receive the temperature sensing element electrical signal from the temperature sensing element and determine a total air temperature as a function of the temperature sensing element electrical signal.

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring environmental conditions favorable for mold, mildew and fungus growth includes a microprocessor having a data map, a temperature sensor attached to the microprocessor, a relative humidity sensor attached to the microprocessor, an indicator array attached to the microprocessor, and a power supply attached to the microprocessor. The map has a plurality of relative humidity and temperature combinations and one or more suggested actions, for the user, based on the combinations. The indicator array may be a single warning light or an array with a plurality of warning lights. The indicator array may also be a text display or an audio speaker for displaying one or more ambient conditions or suggested actions. Barometric pressure data may also be included with the map for more comprehensive suggestions for action.

Abstract: The device comprises a means for measuring a dynamic temperature on the outside of the aircraft, a means for determining a static temperature around the aircraft, using said dynamic temperature, a means for determining, using said static temperature and a thermodynamic equation, a second temperature value corresponding to an estimated temperature at said destination altitude, a means for determining the difference between said first and second temperature values, and a means for emitting a warning signal when said difference is greater than a predetermined value.

Abstract: An accelerated weathering test apparatus of the type used to concentrate solar radiation upon test specimens including a heating element that transfers energy to the test specimens. A temperature sensor is operatively coupled to one of the test specimens for generating a test signal representative of the operating temperature of the test specimens. A controller for generating a temperature set point is connected to the temperature sensor and responsive to the test signal for selectively controlling a power level applied to the heating element in order to control a rate at which energy is transferred to the test specimens.

Abstract: The present invention includes methods, systems and computer-readable media for more accurately determining wind chill temperature, Twc, equivalent temperature, Teq, time to freeze, tf, facial temperature, Tfm+?t, as a function of time and the altitude correction factor, ?tf/1000. The wind chill model of the present invention accounts for the two major heat losses (forced convection, radiation) and a minor heat loss (evaporative cooling) from the facial surface and is also capable of accounting for the two major heat gains (metabolic, solar) at the facial surface due to the individual's physical activity and the presence of sunshine. The wind chill model of the present invention also provides a more accurate value for the wind velocity at head level.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the temperature of outside air provided with a thermometer mounted in a housing connected to a forced ventilation blower for drawing a current outside air across the thermometer and with a Venturi nozzle having an air penetration opening disposed orthogonally relative to the air current for generating vacuum pressure and prevent reverse flow of air through the housing.

Abstract: A signal (Snormal) is provided to a heat element of a temperature sensor, which is recorded as a step response (Lruh, Lbew). From the difference of the step response compared with the reaction adaptively determined with the temperature sensor at zero air circulation, air flow or no air flow is determined.

Abstract: An environment sensor (11) for measuring the temperature and humidity can be miniaturized and can respond at high speed. The environment sensor (11) includes a temperature sensing portion (111) having a temperature-sensitive material (1) made of a metal oxide, and a humidity-sensing portion (112) which is formed on the same substrate as the temperature sensing portion (111) and measures the ambient humidity by using a change in electrical characteristics. At least one of a pair of electrodes (2, 3) of the temperature sensor (111) is integrated with an electrode of the humidity-sensing portion (112).

Abstract: A temperature measurement apparatus allows for accurate temperature measurement in both the sun and the shade using two different thermal sensors. A black sensor has an infrared absorbent surface and a white sensor has an infrared reflecting surface. Using the measurements from these two sensors, a series of equations calculate the correct ambient temperature regardless of where the measurement device is located and ensures accurate readings using a performance check system.

Abstract: The inventive temperature sensor 10 may include a housing having an upper portion 18 and a lower portion 22. Upper portion 18 may include a cap 24 and a base 26. Cap 24 and base 26 may define a fluid passage 70 which is configured for enhancing the flow of ambient air into the region of a wall 60. A hole 54 may extend into wall 60 and be sized for receiving a temperature sensor 14 therein. In that manner, a temperature sensing device 58, such as a thermistor, may accurately and precisely measure the temperature of ambient air, while being protected by wall 60.

Abstract: An ambulatory skin temperature monitoring system. A flexible band is attachable to a patient. The flexible band also secures an electronics assembly that comprises the various electrical components that monitor and operate the ambulatory skin temperature monitoring system. At least one skin temperature sensor is positioned so that it is in contact with the patients skin when the system is attached to the patient. There is also an ambient temperature sensor positioned on the top surface of the electronics assembly housing for measuring and contrasting the ambient temperature to the skin temperature. The electronics assembly positioned within generally comprises a power source and a micro-controller. The micro-controller is coupled with the skin temperature sensor and the ambient temperature sensor. The micro-controller also includes a memory unit for storing temperature data obtained from the skin temperature sensor and the ambient temperature sensor.

Abstract: A device for thermal sensing is based on only one thermopile. The junctions of the thermopile are coupled thermally to a first region which includes a first substance while the hot junctions of the thermopile are coupled thermally to a second region which includes a second substance. The first and second regions are separated and thermally isolated from each other. The device can further include a membrane to thermally and electrically isolate the thermopile and to mechanically support the thermopile.

Abstract: An environmental unit, such as a laboratory incubator, includes a calibration probe integral to the unit. The unit also includes a chamber, a ventilation system, a control sensor, and a CPU. The unit may also include a user interface and a heating element. The calibration probe may be integrated into the chamber of the environmental unit. The calibration probe may be a temperature sensor such as a platinum resistance temperature detector used to calibrate the temperature of the chamber of the unit. The calibration probe communicates the temperature to the control sensor, which communicates the temperature to the CPU. The CPU then adjusts the temperature of the unit.

Abstract: identify the level of heated air re-circulation into cooling fluid delivered to the one or more racks. The one or more racks comprise inlets and outlets and are positioned along a cool aisle and a hot aisle. The index is calculated by dividing the enthalpy rise due to infiltration of heated air into the cool aisle and the total enthalpy rise of the heated air from the outlets of the one or more racks.

Abstract: A system and method for sensing and controlling the temperature of a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system utilizes an infrared sensor. The infrared sensor is used to detect temperature over several different areas on an evaporator surface on which a cold spot may occur. More preferably, the infrared sensor continuously scans the whole surface on the air outlet side of the evaporator. The sensed temperature is used to detect any cold spots that may dynamically form on the evaporator surface. The system is controlled in response to the detected temperature.

Abstract: A similarity transform method of providing parameterized representation of physical or engineering functions for use in retrieving the engineering or physical functions from data, comprising (a) obtaining samples of the functions from data, numerical simulations, or analytic models, (b) extracting generic function shape information from the samples, (c) embedding the function shape information in a parametric discrete grid-based function representation model (forward model); (d) fitting data with the forward model; and (e) retrieving the function from the fitted forward model. The similarity transform method provides a framework for extracting generic function shape information, in the form of non-dimensional shape function, from data, numerical simulations, or analytic model. Thus, the present invention facilitates analysis of general characteristics of a physical or engineering variable, in terms of the dependence of the variable on other variables or parameters.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method or controlling the temperature in a controlled-climate chamber, wherein: an organism, such as a plant or an animal, is placed in the controlled-climate chamber; the temperature in the controlled-climate chamber is kept essentially constant at a specific value (T1); at least one growth characteristic (G) of the organism, such as, for example, the CO2 production, is measured; the temperature in the controlled-climate chamber is raised or lowered by a specific value (&dgr;T); the magnitude of the growth characteristic is measured again; the variation in the measured value of the growth characteristic is determined (&dgr;G); and the temperature in the controlled-climate chamber is adjusted, depending on the variation in the measured value of the growth characteristic (&dgr;G) that has been determined.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the breathability and comfort level of a shoe, comprising a rigid structure that duplicates the contour of a foot, divided into at least three thermally insulated regions from each other, for the shoe to be tested, resistors heating the regions of the rigid structure to a presettable temperature, at least one cladding of a soft material permeable to liquids, that absorb water and distributing it over the entire surface of the structure, sensors for sensing the temperature of cladding regions corresponding to the contour regions, a metering pump to supply water to the structure, and a power measuring device.

Abstract: A method and device for determining ambient air temperature by measuring the temperature of an aircraft interior skin surface.

Abstract: A transport temperature control unit and methods of defrosting an evaporator coil of a transport temperature control unit. The transport temperature control unit includes an evaporator coil, an ambient air temperature sensor for sensing an ambient air temperature, a return air temperature sensor for sensing a return air temperature, a discharge air temperature sensor for sensing a discharge air temperature, an evaporator coil temperature sensor for sensing an evaporator coil temperature, and a controller. The controller initiates a defrost cycle when a large temperature differential occurs over the evaporator coil.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring outdoor temperature and humidity includes a box type body which has a flat LCD screen located on one side, and a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor located on the surface thereof. The body includes a control circuit. The temperature sensor and humidity sensor, a temperature and humidity measuring circuit and LCD screen are integrated in one set. The body may be mounted on the exterior of a glass window by means of a fastening section located on the body without assistance of skilled professionals. Thus installation time and costs and wiring expenses may be saved. Outdoor temperature and humidity may be directly known indoors.

Abstract: A temperature indicator for a motor vehicle arranged to indicate, to the driver of the vehicle, the ambient temperature either inside or outside the vehicle. The temperature indicator comprises thermochromic material (36-46) applied to the reflective member (30) of a rear view mirror (10) and arranged in a line, locations along which are arranged to change colour at successively increasing temperatures. The line of thermochromic material (36-46) may be positioned to separate zones (32, 34) of the reflective member which differ in curvature.

Abstract: A climate control system for a passenger compartment of a vehicle provides temperature and moisture sensors disposed at or near the surface of the seats. The temperature and moisture sensors provide input signals to an electronic control unit, which processes the signals based on a preprogrammed algorithm. The control unit then operates one or more climate control devices, chosen from a set of climate control devices. The set of climate control devices includes fans, heating mechanisms, and a heating and cooling subsystem. The fans and heating mechanisms are disposed in relation to each seat within the vehicle, to move heated air to or from the surface of the seat. The heating and cooling subsystem may include the vehicle's central heating and cooling system.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for measuring the temperature of a gas, especially air, said temperature (so-called effective temperature) being measured at least according to speed (wind intensity) and humidity. The inventive device comprises a housing (4) having a wall (6), which essentially separates the inside (4c) of the housing (4) from the outside environment. The device also comprises a temperature sensor (14) arranged inside the housing (4), and has a heating device (10), which is also arranged inside, said housing (4).

Abstract: The sensor has an outer member 10 formed with an upwardly directed hole 12 having an open upper end 14. An inner member in the form of a tube 16 is provided having a lower portion 18 positioned in the hole 12 and an upper portion 19 which projects above the outer member 10. Solar radiation applied to the upper portion 19 of the tube 16 creates a chimney effect which causes air to flow upwardly inside the tube 16 and downwardly from the open upper end 14 through a space 22 between the inner and outer members 10, 16. Sensing devices 24, 26 for sensing temperature and humidity are arranged within the outer member 10 and in the air flow path.

Abstract: A sensor for sensing in a gas stream a vapor of a liquid. The sensor includes a micropore and a wet temperature sensor. The micropore has an evaporation end and has a lumen to conduct liquid from a supply of the liquid for evaporation at the evaporation end. The wet temperature sensor has a heat sensitive part in contact with the liquid in the micropore. The heat sensitive part circumscribes the micropore and forms part of the lumen. Heat loss due to evaporation of the liquid when the wet temperature sensor wet with the liquid is placed in the gas stream will result in the temperature sensed by the wet temperature sensor being lower than the non-evaporative temperature of the gas stream. This lowering in temperature can be measured to determine the concentration of the vapor in the gas stream. An example of such a sensor has a thermocouple junction having micropores passing through the thermocouple junction.

Abstract: A method and a system for quantitative determination of the seat climate of a seat cushion is provided. For this purpose, the seat surface is subjected, during realistic mechanical loading of the seat cushion to be tested, to a flow of moisture from a climate mat. Any moisture stagnation at the seat surface is measured. For this purpose, the seat cushion, covered with a flexible multilayer climate mat, is loaded realistically via an anthropomorphically shaped seat testing punch. The climate mat consists of the following layers: a plurality of flat moisture sensors; a trouser material layer with low moisture uptake; a distribution layer that is readily permeable to air and has a noncompressible structure; a fleece layer that can be moistened and replaced as the moisture storage medium; an electrically insulating vapor barrier; and an electrically heatable heating mat that can be set to a specific temperature.

Abstract: A wet bulb thermometer. A temperature sensor which can function in a moist environment is placed in such a location that it will be within the mist of water produced by a nozzle when pressurized water is supplied to the nozzle. Preferably, the temperature sensor is placed somewhat below the nozzle to account for the effect of gravity upon the mist of water. Also, preferably, the temperature sensor produces an electrical signal that is indicative of temperature and that can be read by a computer. Accuracy of the determination of the wet-bulb temperature of the air is assured by the redundancy of this device. Evaporation from droplets in the mist assure that the temperature of the air within the mist is at the wet-bulb temperature as, independently, does the evaporation from the film of water which forms on the surface of the temperature sensor.

Abstract: In order to measure in a non-contact manner a clothing amount of a human being in a state in which the human body is clothed, a camera captures a subject including the human being. An image processing section recognizes a human body from images captured by the camera, and detects an area of the human body in the human body image. A radiation sensor detects a radiation heat quantity of an environment and a radiation heat quantity of a human body plus environment. A clothing amount calculating section obtains a position and an area of the human being in the real space, a surface temperature of the clothes on the human being, a skin temperature of the human being, an environmental temperature and so forth based on information from the image processing section and information from the radiation sensor, and calculates the clothing amount of the human being from the obtained values.

Abstract: A low-cost, accurate enthalpy sensor is described. The invention provides an on/off output which reflects the result of a comparison between the enthalpy level of a space and a predetermined setpoint. The sensor combines a signal representative of humidity with a signal representative of temperature to create a signal representative of enthalpy. The signal representative of enthalpy is compared with a predetermined setpoint to determine if the enthalpy level is above or below the setpoint. An output is then produced which indicates whether the output representative of enthalpy is above or below the predetermined setpoint.

Abstract: Sweating hot plate apparatus simulating the thermoregulatory behavior of human skin and related method for predicting fabric comfort level with the apparatus. Fabric is placed on the top surface of the apparatus, and selected constant inputs of power flux and water flow are supplied to the apparatus, whereby the surface temperature of the apparatus changes and closely approximates the skin temperature of human subjects having levels of heat generation and sweat production corresponding at the same levels of power flux input and water flow input, respectively.

Abstract: A method and thermostat for controlling comfort in an area with temperature altering equipment, but no specific humidity altering equipment. An on-off thermostat which mechanically combines temperature and humidity measurements in a predetermined ratio based on a user's perception of comfort. The thermostat does not require an anticipator when used with an air conditioner in a warm and humid climate.

Abstract: A method for calculating a PMV for an air conditioning system having a body sensor and a temperature sensor includes the steps of sensing a thermal change a human body senses due to room air circulation using the body sensor, and converting the sensed thermal change into a digital value, sensing a room temperature using the temperature sensor, and converting the sensed room temperature into a digital value, assigning parameters according to human bodily activities and amount of clothes a man wears classified by seasons and times, and calculating a PMV by computing the value of thermal change converted into a digital value, the value of room temperature converted into a digital value, and the parameters.

Abstract: A temperature comfort sensing device is disclosed which comprises a single diaphragm having a thin film heater and a temperature sensor. A plurality of thermocouples, a room temperature sensor and a black body are formed over the single diaphragm. The thin film heater corresponds to an internal heat exchanging mechanism of a human being, and the thermocouples serve to sense skin temperature condition.

Abstract: A thermally isolated flush mounted room temperature sensing apparatus has a sensor assembly with sensor elements mounted on a printed circuit board and generates a value that is indicative of the sensed temperature. The apparatus has a generally sealed box structure with a wall plate attached to an open end of the box structure, and the sensor assembly extends through an opening in the wall plate. The assembly is mounted to an insulating block located in the box structure and is supported by spring retainers to have the assembly float away from the block to provide thermal isolation. Other thermal isolating features are provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring and compensating for the impact of environmental effects on industrial processing units. A thermal test element having a low thermal mass and high conductivity is exposed to the environment. Ambient air temperature is sensed at a nearby location, and a differential temperature controller determines how much energy is required to maintain the test element at a desired temperature differential from ambient temperature. Duty cycle and wattage outputs enable feedforward compensation for environmentally induced process unit control disturbances.

Abstract: A method of estimating both atmospheric conditions and surface temperatures of an object from either a single set of multispectral images or multiple simultaneously-acquired single-band images of the object. Estimates of atmospheric conditions are generated by determining and radiometrically correcting radiance values measured from the image of the object. Expected radiance values are then determined and compared with the measured radiance values. The best fit of the radiance values measured from the image of the object to the expected radiance values corresponds to the best estimate of the atmospheric conditions associated with the object. The present method estimates atmospheric conditions for the object regardless of the availability of atmospheric conditions associated with the image.

Abstract: According to a method and apparatus for calculating predicted mean thermal sensitivity which is used to control an air conditioning or heating unit, an operative temperature T.sub.0 is calculated on the basis of a radiant temperature Tr, an air temperature Ta, an air velocity Vair, coefficients b.sub.1 and b.sub.2, and a coefficient n according to the following equation: ##EQU1## Predicted mean thermal sensitivity PMV* is calculated on the basis of the operative temperature T0, the air temperature Ta, a relative humidity RH, a saturated water vapor pressure Pa*, a clothing thermal resistance Icl, a variable h.sub.0 (h.sub.0 =b.sub.1 +b.sub.2 .multidot.Vair.sup.n), and coefficients a.sub.

Abstract: A temperature comfort sensing device and a method for manufacturing the same, capable of achieving comfortable air conditioning by detecting an average temperature comfort sensitivity to a room environment and thus analogizing a correct predicted mean vote value. The temperature comfort sensing device comprises a lower diaphragm having a thin film heater and a temperature sensor, and an upper diaphragm having a plurality of thermocouples, a room temperature sensor and a black body. Alternatively, the temperature comfort sensing device comprises a single diaphragm having a thin film heater and a temperature sensor. Directly formed over the single diaphragm are a plurality of thermocouples, a room temperature sensor and a black body. The sensor is based on a model of the human body, with the thin film heater corresponding to an internal heat exchanging mechanism of a human being. The thermocouples serve to sense a skin temperature condition.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for calculating thermal sensitivity and predicted mean thermal sensitivity felt by a person in an environment. According to the apparatus of the present invention, an air temperature Ta, a clothing thermal resistance Icl, and a sensor temperature Tcr of a sensor within the environment are provided as input to an input section of the apparatus. Upon receiving these values, a set temperature calculating section of the apparatus calculates a set temperature .theta..sub.(th). A thermal energy control means supplies thermal energy information H.theta..sub.(th) to a heater so as to heat the sensor in order to maintain the sensor temperature Tcr at the calculated set temperature .theta..sub.(th). An equivalent temperature calculating section then calculates an equivalent temperature Teq.sup.* so that a predicted mean thermal sensitivity PMV.sup.* can then calculated on the basis of the obtained equivalent temperature Teq.sup.*.

Abstract: A method of estimating both atmospheric conditions and surface temperatures of an object from either a single set of multispectral images or multiple simultaneously-acquired single-band images of the object. Estimates of atmospheric conditions are generated by determining and radiometrically correcting radiance values measured from the image of the object. Expected radiance values are then determined and compared with the measured radiance values. The best fit of the radiance values measured from the image of the object to the expected radiance values corresponds to the best estimate of the atmospheric conditions associated with the object. The present method estimates atmospheric conditions for the object regardless of the availability of atmospheric conditions associated with the image.

Abstract: The device comprises a heat-sensitive element which is heated to a controllable extent so as to keep it at a predetermined temperature, for example, average body temperature. Detector means measure the power or energy required to keep the heat-sensitive element at this predetermined temperature, thus providing a signal indicative of the thermal comfort conditions of the environment. The heat-sensitive element has a general elongated shape so that it can be inserted, for example, into a motor vehicle safety belt, ensuring that the indication obtained indicates the general thermal comfort conditions throughout the entire region of the environment in which the heat-sensitive element extends.

Abstract: According to a method and apparatus for calculating thermal sensitivity, a set temperature .theta..sub.(th) is calculated on the basis of an air temperature Ta and a clothing thermal resistance Icl. Thermal energy H.theta..sub.(th) is supplied to a heater capable of adjusting a sensor temperature Tcr so as to set the sensor temperature Tcr to be equal to the set temperature .theta..sub.(th). The thermal sensitivity is calculated on the basis of the air temperature Ta, the clothing thermal resistance Icl, the set temperature .theta..sub.(th), and the thermal energy H.theta..sub.(th).

Abstract: A method for determining the relative humidity in an interior space without using a special humidity sensor, the method including passing a flow of air of known temperature and humidity through the cooling coil of a known air conditioning system for a pre-determined period of time. The temperature of the air exiting from the cooling coil after the pre-determined period of time is measured. A reference temperature differential is determined by subtracting the exiting temperature from the known temperature of the entering air. A flow of air for which it is desired to know the relative humidity is then passed through the cooling coil for the same pre-determined period of time. The temperature of the air entering the cooling coil and exiting from the cooling coil at the end of this pre-determined period of time is determined. The exit temperature is subtracted from the entering temperature to provide the temperature differential for the air of unknown relative humidity.

Abstract: A comfort control system and method which determines the operating temperature set point for the environment to be controlled, in part by indirectly measuring the mean radiant temperature of the environment. A temperature sensor and relative humidity sensor sense the environment to be controlled and provide electrical signals indicating the sensed values to a microprocessor. A building load monitor either monitors the duty cycle of the heating/cooling system for the environment or senses the difference between the environment temperature and the outside temperature to generate a value indicative of the heating or cooling load on the building. A calculation formula to be stored in the microprocessor factors the selected operating temperature, the building load, the relative humidity, and selected constance. The microprocessor determines the operating set point, compares the set point to the temperature of the environment, and generates a control signal for the heating/cooling system.

Abstract: A thermal environment sensor has a single temperature detector for detecting temperature and producing an output representative of the detected temperature, the temperature detector having, when heated by a predetermined constant power, a convective heat transfer coefficient giving it a wind velocity dependent temperature drop characteristic in close conformity with the wind velocity dependence of the effective temperature drop felt by a human body. A heater is provided for heating the temperature detector, and an electric power supply is connected to the heater for supplying the heater with a constant electric power corresponding to the predetermined constant power, and a temperature estimating circuit is connected to the temperature detector for correcting the output of the temperature detector by a predetermined constant temperature difference for thereby obtaining the effective temperature felt by a human body.

Abstract: A thermal environment sensor has a single temperature detector for detecting temperature and producing an output representative of the detected temperature, the temperature detector having, when heated by a predetermined constant power, a convective heat transfer coefficient giving it a wind velocity dependent temperature drop characteristic in close conformity with the wind velocity dependence of the effective temperature drop felt by a human body. A heater is provided for heating the temperature detector, and an electric power supply is connected to the heater for supplying the heater with a constant electric power corresponding to the predetermined constant power, and a temperature estimating circuit is connected to the temperature detector for correcting the output of the temperature detector by a predetermined constant temperature difference for thereby obtaining the effective temperature felt by a human body.

Abstract: A window thermometer of the bimetallic type has a circular casing with a dial plate received in the casing for rotation relative thereto. The bimetallic element has one end coupled to the casing and the other end to a dial pointer. Suction cups with stems are secured to the dial plate by fasteners that pass through the casing and plate, the fasteners holding the parts together and yet permitting temperature calibration by permitting the plate to rotate relative to the casing when the fasteners are loosened.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to an indoor-outdoor thermometer adapted to be used on motor vehicles. The structure, preferably of transparent plastic material, also includes the concept of insulating material in order to improve the accuracy of temperature measurements. In order to improve transparency through the device, the insulation is placed only on areas of the device closest to the temperature sensors. In order to provide maximum visibility through the device transparent insulation is preferentially used.

Abstract: A temperature sensor, e.g. a thermistor (24, 37, 41, 46, 50', 57) is provided in a hollow space in cup-shaped shell (22, 36, 39, 42, 50, 54) of a size, e.g. 30 mm diameter and 15 mm depth, at a position of 1/3 height (i.e. 5 mm) of the depth from the bottom of the shell, the shell having wide opening (23, 33, 43, 47, 55) at its top part, and the temperature sensor is heated by feeding a controlled current to itself or to a heater provided at proximity thereto; the temperature sensor senses environmental condition in the similar manner to human sensation, taking account of air temperature, air flow and radiant heat from nearby matter such as wall or ceiling; thereby enabling comfortable air controlling.