Hot Box Experiment

Before conducting the primary experiments for the RIDER, a series of preliminary tests using a heated climate chamber, referred to as the "Hot Box," were undertaken to explore strategies for maintaining cooler interior environments under extreme heat. Over three weeks, these controlled experiments simulated tropical conditions, with relative humidity ranging from 50-90% and temperatures cycling between day (~33-34°C with ~60-65% RH and ~25-27 W/m² radiation) and night (~24-26°C with ~90-95% RH and no radiation). The cyclical nature of these tests was achieved by alternately activating and deactivating the radiant heat source.