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System properties, feedback control and effector coordination of human temperature regulation
1Medical Faculty, Ruhr-University, Bochum, Germany. juergen.werner@rub.de
European Journal of Applied Physiology
|September 30, 2009
Summary
Human temperature regulation maintains deep body constancy using a proportional feedback system. This system achieves stable operating points without needing a set-point, ensuring physiological protection.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Control Systems Engineering
- Thermoregulation
Background:
- Human temperature regulation aims to maintain deep body constancy despite external and internal influences.
- This is achieved via a distributed multi-sensor, multi-processor, multi-effector proportional feedback control system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explain the inherent deviations in proportional control systems.
- To present a model of human thermoregulation using core and peripheral temperature feedback.
- To clarify the mechanisms of steady-state achievement and effector coordination.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of proportional feedback control systems in biological regulation.
- Conceptualization of thermoregulation as an auxiliary feedback control system.
- Examination of steady-state conditions and effector interactions within the control loop.
Main Results:
- Proportional control inherently leads to deviations from the ideal set-point.
- Core temperature (T (c)) is the primary regulated variable, supported by peripheral temperatures (T (s)) as auxiliary feedback.
- Steady states are achieved through dynamical stability, not by comparing actual to set values.
- Metabolic and sweat effectors are independent but coordinated with vasomotor control.
Conclusions:
- Human thermoregulation operates as a stable feedback system without a fixed set-point.
- The model clarifies the roles of core and peripheral temperatures in maintaining thermal homeostasis.
- Coordination of multiple effectors ensures effective protection of body processes.
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