Inspired by the thermoregulation system of the human body, “Walter”, the first thermal manikin made of mainly water and high strength breathable fabric has been developed by Prof. Jin-tu Fan from the Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. With its unique features, Walter is relatively less costly, but achieves high accuracy in objective measurements.

This technology feature outlines the background of the thermal manikin development, highlights the key features of the sweating fabric manikin-“Walter” and its recent improvements, as well as its applications in apparel product development and testing of functional clothing.