Air conditioning system and air conditioning method for building

Abstract

To provide an air conditioning system for a building capable of improving temperature controllability and comfort in a room.SOLUTION: The present invention relates to an air conditioning system 1 for a building. The air conditioning system 1 includes an air conditioner 11, a duct 12, a fan 13, a room temperature sensor 14 and a control device 15. The control device 15 includes: a target temperature input section; a room temperature acquisition section; a normal operation section that operates the fan 13; a first determination section that determines whether or not a difference between a room temperature and a target temperature is a predetermined threshold value or larger; a second determination section that determines whether or not the fan 13 is being operated at maximum air quantity notch when the determination made by the first determination section is affirmative; a third determination section that determines whether or not rotational frequency of the fan 13 is smaller than the maximum rotational frequency when the determination made by the second determination section is affirmative; a fourth determination section that determines whether or not a stronger air conditioning action is required on the basis of a change of the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature when the determination made by the third determination section is affirmative; and a rapid operation section that further increases the rotational frequency of the fan 13 within a range up to the maximum rotational frequency when the determination made by the fourth determination section is affirmative.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioning system and method for a building. [Background technology]

[0002] The following Patent Document 1 describes a central air conditioning system for a house. This air conditioning system includes an air conditioner, a number of ducts for conveying air conditioned by the air conditioner to a number of living rooms, and at least one fan for pumping the air conditioned by the air conditioner through the number of ducts to the number of living rooms. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-085533 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Generally, the above-mentioned fans are selected to have power and size that are assumed to be capable of controlling the temperature in a room. However, when the fan is used in an environment that is beyond the expected level due to the influence of the ever-changing amount of solar radiation, the outside air, heat generated during daily life, etc., there is a problem that the temperature in the room cannot be temporarily controlled, decreasing the comfort of the room.

[0005] The present invention has been devised in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and has as its main object to provide an air conditioning system for a building that is capable of improving temperature controllability and comfort in a room. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention is an air conditioning system for conditioning at least one occupant room provided in a building, the system including an air conditioner, at least one duct for transporting conditioned air generated by the air conditioner to the occupant room, at least one fan for pressurizing the conditioned air to the occupant room via the duct, an occupant room temperature sensor for measuring an occupant room temperature, which is the temperature of the occupant room, and a control device for receiving a signal from the occupant room temperature sensor and controlling operation of the fan, the fan having a predetermined maximum rotation speed, and the control device including a target temperature input unit to which a target temperature of the occupant room is input, an occupant room temperature acquisition unit for acquiring the occupant room temperature from the occupant room temperature sensor, and a plurality of air conditioners having mutually different airflow rates. a first judgment unit that judges whether the fan is operating at a maximum airflow notch having the largest airflow among the plurality of airflow notches; a second judgment unit that judges whether a rotation speed of the fan is lower than the maximum rotation speed when the judgment of the first judgment unit is positive; a third judgment unit that judges whether stronger air conditioning is needed based on a change in the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature when the judgment of the first judgment unit is positive; and a rapid operation unit that further increases the rotation speed of the fan up to the maximum rotation speed when both the judgments of the second judgment unit and the third judgment unit are positive. Effect of the Invention

[0007] By adopting the above-described configuration, the building air conditioning system of the present invention can improve the temperature controllability and comfort of the room. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a building in which a building air conditioning system is installed. [Diagram 2] 1 is a graph showing the PQ curve of a fan operating at maximum rotation speed and the resistance curve of a duct. [Diagram 3]FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control device. [Figure 4] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure of a building air conditioning method. [Diagram 5] 13 is a diagram showing the correspondence relationship between the temperature difference between a room temperature and a target temperature and the score associated with the temperature difference. FIG. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure of a fan airflow notch adjustment process. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure of a first airflow notch adjustment process. [Figure 8] 10 is a graph for explaining a determination as to whether or not strong air conditioning is required. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the correspondence relationship between the average values ​​of the scores associated with the temperature difference (the first-order average value and the second-order average value) and the airflow volume notches of the fan. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the correspondence relationship between the score associated with the temperature difference and the opening degree of the damper. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the correspondence relationship between the average value of the scores associated with the temperature difference (overall average value) and the adjustment temperature. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the correspondence relationship between the average value of the scores associated with the temperature difference (overall average value) and the air volume of the indoor unit fan. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. It should be understood that the drawings include exaggerated expressions and expressions different from the dimensional ratio of the actual structure in order to help understand the contents of the invention. Furthermore, the same or common elements are given the same reference numerals throughout the embodiments, and duplicated explanations are omitted. Furthermore, the specific configurations shown in the embodiments and drawings are for understanding the contents of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the specific configurations shown in the drawings.

[0010] [building] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a building 2 in which a building air conditioning system (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "air conditioning system") 1 is installed. The building 2 is exemplified as a residence, but may be a building or the like. The building 2 of this embodiment is configured to include an underfloor space 3 and an above-floor space 4.

[0011] The underfloor space 3 in this embodiment is a space surrounded by the foundation, the ground, and the first floor floor 5. An opening 6 is provided in the foundation for taking in outside air Ao. The outside air Ao taken in from the opening 6 is heat exchanged through the ground with underground heat, which has little temperature change throughout the year. This allows the underfloor space 3 to store air Au (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "underfloor air") that is cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter than the outside air Ao.

[0012] The above-floor space 4 is a space provided above the under-floor space 3 (floor 5). In this embodiment, the above-floor space 4 is provided with a room 7. The room 7 in this embodiment includes a first room 7a, a second room 7b, a third room 7c, and a fourth room 7d. Of these first room 7a to fourth room 7d, the first room 7a and the second room 7b are provided on the first floor of the building 2. On the other hand, the third room 7c and the fourth room 7d are provided on the second floor of the building 2. However, the room 7 is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the room 7 may be composed of only one room 7, or may further include other rooms (not shown) different from the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d.

[0013] [Air conditioning system] The air conditioning system 1 is for conditioning at least one room 7 provided in a building 2. The air conditioning system 1 of this embodiment is configured as a central air conditioning system for conditioning a plurality of rooms 7 (in this example, all of the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d). Note that the air conditioning system 1 is not limited to being configured as a central air conditioning system, and may be, for example, a system for conditioning only a specific room 7.

[0014] The air conditioning system 1 of this embodiment is configured to include an air conditioner 11, at least one duct 12, at least one fan 13, a room temperature sensor 14, and a control device 15.

[0015] [Air conditioner]

[0016] The air conditioner 11 of this embodiment is configured as, for example, a typical household split-type air conditioner. The air conditioner 11 therefore includes an indoor unit 16 and an outdoor unit (not shown).

[0017] The indoor unit 16 has an intake port 16a and an outlet port 16b. The intake port 16a is for taking in air (in this example, a mixture of circulated air Ai and outside air Ao (underfloor air Au)) into a heat exchanger (not shown) provided inside the indoor unit 16. On the other hand, the outlet port 16b is for discharging air (conditioned air) Ac generated by the heat exchanger (not shown). In this embodiment, the set temperature and the like of the air conditioner 11 can be controlled by the control device 15.

[0018] The indoor unit 16 is provided with an indoor unit fan 16c. The indoor unit fan 16c is for drawing in air to be conditioned from an inlet 16a and discharging conditioned air Ac from an outlet 16b. The air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c in this embodiment is controlled in multiple stages, but may also be controlled at one air volume (single notch).

[0019] The airflow rate of the indoor unit fan 16c in this embodiment is set to five levels, including a first airflow rate, a second airflow rate, a third airflow rate, a fourth airflow rate, and a fifth airflow rate. Of these first to fifth airflow rates, the first airflow rate is set to the smallest, and the fifth airflow rate is set to the largest.

[0020] The air volumes of the indoor unit fans 16c are appropriately set according to the air conditioning capacity required for the air conditioner 11. As an example of each air volume, the first air volume is 610 m 3 / h, second air volume 720m 3 / h, 3rd air volume is 900m3 / h, 4th air volume 1080m 3 / h, No. 5 air volume is 1550m 3 / h.

[0021] The air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c is not limited to the first to fifth air volumes, and for example, some of the first to fifth air volumes may be omitted, or other air volumes may be further included. The air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c is switched by the control device 15.

[0022] The indoor unit 16 of this embodiment is housed inside a chamber box 17. The chamber box 17 is provided in a non-occupied room (hall) 8, for example, but is not limited to this embodiment.

[0023] The chamber box 17 is formed in a box shape having a space therein. The chamber box 17 of this embodiment is provided with an air supply port (not shown) for supplying the air Ai circulated through the multiple rooms 7 to the inside, and an outside air intake port (not shown) for supplying the outside air Ao (underfloor air Au) to the inside. The outside air Ao (underfloor air Au) of this embodiment is taken in from the underfloor space 3, for example, via an outside air supply duct 18 and an outside air supply fan 19. The outside air Ao may be taken in directly from outdoors. The air volume of the outside air supply fan 19 is appropriately set based on, for example, the number of ventilation cycles required for the building 2.

[0024] [duct] The duct 12 in this embodiment is for transporting the conditioned air Ac generated by the air conditioner 11 to the living room 7. When multiple living rooms 7 are conditioned as in this embodiment, multiple ducts 12 are provided connected to each of the living rooms 7. The ducts 12 in this embodiment include a first duct 12a and a second duct 12b.

[0025] The first duct 12a in this embodiment is for transporting the conditioned air Ac to the rooms 7 on the first floor (in this example, the first room 7a and the second room 7b). One end of the first duct 12a is connected to the air conditioner 11 side (in this example, the air outlet 16b side in the chamber box 17). Furthermore, the first duct 12a branches between one end and the other end, and the other end is connected to each of the first room 7a and the second room 7b. Such a first duct 12a provides communication between the air conditioner 11 (chamber box 17) and the first room 7a and the second room 7b, and the conditioned air Ac can be transported to each of the first room 7a and the second room 7b.

[0026] The second duct 12b in this embodiment is for transporting the conditioned air Ac to the rooms 7 on the second floor (in this example, the third room 7c and the fourth room 7d). One end of the second duct 12b is connected to the air conditioner 11 side (in this example, the air outlet 16b side in the chamber box 17). Furthermore, the second duct 12b branches between one end and the other end, and the other end is connected to each of the third room 7c and the fourth room 7d. Such a second duct 12b provides communication between the air conditioner 11 (chamber box 17) and the third room 7c and the fourth room 7d, and the conditioned air Ac can be transported to each of the third room 7c and the fourth room 7d.

[0027] A damper 20 may be provided at the other end of the first duct 12a and the other end of the second duct 12b. The damper 20 in this embodiment is for adjusting the volume of the conditioned air Ac according to the size of its opening degree (opening area). The damper 20 in this embodiment includes a first damper 20a for adjusting the volume of the conditioned air Ac to the first living room 7a, and a second damper 20b for adjusting the volume of the conditioned air Ac to the second living room 7b. The damper 20 further includes a third damper 20c for adjusting the volume of the conditioned air Ac to the third living room 7c, and a fourth damper 20d for adjusting the volume of the conditioned air Ac to the fourth living room 7d. The first damper 20a to the fourth damper 20d can independently adjust the volume of the conditioned air Ac in each of the living rooms 7 (in this example, the first living room 7a to the fourth living room 7d).

[0028] The duct 12 in this embodiment is composed of the first duct 12a and the second duct 12b, but is not limited to this. For example, if a room 7 (not shown) is provided on the third floor or higher, a duct 12 (not shown) communicating with the room 7 may be further added.

[0029] [fan] The fan 13 is for pressure-feeding the conditioned air Ac to the room 7 through the duct 12. The fan 13 in this embodiment is housed in a chamber box 17, but is not particularly limited thereto.

[0030] It is preferable to select a fan 13 that has power and size assumed to be capable of controlling the temperature in the room 7, and that has a known relationship between pressure loss and rotation speed. This allows the conditioned air Ac to be efficiently compressed and sent to the room 7, improving the temperature controllability and comfort of the room 7.

[0031] In this embodiment, the fan 13 is configured as a constant volume fan whose rotation speed is controlled to keep a constant volume of air. Therefore, the fan 13 can be operated based on any one of a number of predetermined air volume notches. These air volume notches are set with different air volumes.

[0032] In this embodiment, the airflow notches are set to five levels, including, for example, a fine notch, a very weak notch, a weak notch, a medium notch, and a strong notch. Among these airflow notches, the fine notch is set to the smallest airflow. On the other hand, the strong notch is set to the largest airflow (i.e., as the maximum airflow notch).

[0033] For example, an air volume that can control the temperature of the room 7 can be set for each air volume notch. As an example of the air volume for each air volume notch, 3 / h, weak notch at 320m 3 / h, weak notch is 480m 3 / h, middle notch is 640m 3 / h, strong notch (maximum air volume notch) is 800m 3 / h. Note that the air volume notches are not limited to this embodiment, and some of the slight notches to strong notches may be omitted, and other air volume notches may be included.

[0034] The switching of each air volume notch of fan 13 is performed by control device 15. As a result, like a conventional constant volume fan, fan 13 has its rotation speed controlled according to the ventilation resistance, and is able to pressurize and deliver conditioned air Ac at the air volume set for each air volume notch.

[0035] In the present embodiment, the fan 13 has a predetermined maximum rotation speed in addition to the air volume notch. The maximum rotation speed is set so that the conditioned air Ac can be compressed and sent out at a volume larger than that of the maximum air volume notch (strong notch), and can be set to, for example, 1200 to 2500 rpm.

[0036] 2 is a graph showing a PQ curve C1 of the fan 13 operating at the maximum rotation speed, and resistance curves C2 and C3 of the duct 12. In the graph of FIG. 2, the vertical axis represents static pressure P (Pa), and the horizontal axis represents air volume Q (m 3 / h).

[0037] In FIG. 2, the PQ curve C1 indicates that for fan 13 operating at the maximum rotation speed, the air volume Q decreases as the static pressure P (pressure loss) increases.

[0038] The resistance curves C2 and C3 indicate that the static pressure P (pressure loss) increases as the air volume Q increases. The resistance curves C2 and C3 vary depending on, for example, the construction state of the duct 12 (e.g., length, number of bends, etc.) and the magnitude of pressure loss caused by filter dirt, etc. In Fig. 2, the duct 12 represented by the first resistance curve C2 has a larger pressure loss than the duct 12 represented by the second resistance curve C3.

[0039] The first resistance curve C2 has a static pressure P1 at an air volume Q1 of the maximum air volume notch (strong notch), and intersects with the PQ curve C1 of the fan 13 operating at the maximum rotation speed. In this case, for the fan 13 connected to the duct 12 indicated by the first resistance curve C2, the rotation speed when operating at the maximum air volume notch has already reached the maximum rotation speed. Therefore, the rotation speed of the fan 13 cannot be increased any more (i.e., there is no spare capacity in the rotation speed of the fan 13).

[0040] On the other hand, the second resistance curve C3 has a static pressure of P2 at airflow Q1 of the maximum airflow notch (strong notch), and does not intersect with the PQ curve C1 of the fan 13 operating at the maximum rotation speed. In this case, for the fan 13 connected to the duct 12 indicated by the second resistance curve C3, the rotation speed when operating at the maximum airflow notch is smaller than the maximum rotation speed. Therefore, it is possible to further increase the rotation speed of the fan 13 operating at the maximum airflow notch within the range up to the maximum rotation speed (between static pressure P2 and static pressure P3 that intersects with the PQ curve C1) (i.e., there is a margin of power in the rotation speed of the fan 13).

[0041] In this way, even when the fan 13 is operating at the maximum airflow notch (strong notch), if there is still some spare capacity in the rotation speed, the rotation speed can be increased within the range from the rotation speed of the maximum airflow notch to the maximum rotation speed. By increasing the rotation speed in this manner, more conditioned air Ac can be supplied than when operating at the maximum airflow notch.

[0042] 1, this embodiment includes a plurality of fans 13 that pressurize and send conditioned air Ac to a plurality of rooms 7 via a plurality of ducts 12 (in this example, a first duct 12a and a second duct 12b). The fans 13 in this embodiment include a first fan 13a and a second fan 13b.

[0043] The first fan 13a in this embodiment is for pressure-transmitting the conditioned air Ac to the rooms 7 on the first floor (in this example, the first room 7a and the second room 7b) through the first duct 12a. The second fan 13b in this embodiment is for pressure-transmitting the conditioned air Ac to the rooms 7 on the second floor (in this example, the third room 7c and the fourth room 7d) through the second duct 12b.

[0044] Although the fan 13 in this embodiment is composed of the first fan 13a and the second fan 13b, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, if another duct (not shown) is provided in addition to the first duct 12a and the second duct 12b, a fan (not shown) may be further added to pressure-feed the conditioned air Ac to the room 7 through that duct.

[0045] [Room temperature sensor] The room temperature sensor 14 is for measuring the temperature of the room 7 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "room temperature"). The room temperature sensor 14 is not particularly limited as long as it is capable of detecting the room temperature, and for example, a known temperature sensor may be adopted. The room temperature sensor 14 of this embodiment is installed in each of the multiple rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d). The room temperature (signal) detected by the room temperature sensor 14 is transmitted to the control device 15.

[0046] [Control device] The control device 15 of this embodiment is configured by a computer and is installed, for example, on a partition wall.

[0047] 3 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device 15. The control device 15 includes, for example, a calculation device 21, a storage device 22 for storing processing procedures and the like, and a working memory 23 for reading the processing procedures and the like from the storage device 22. An input device 24 and an output device 25 are connected to the control device 15 (calculation device 21).

[0048] [Input device] The input device 24 of this embodiment is configured with operation buttons, a touch panel, and the like provided on the housing of the control device 15 shown in Fig. 1. For example, information (signals) input by a user (resident) or the like can be transmitted to the control device 15 by the input device 24.

[0049] The information input to the input device 24 includes, for example, the start and stop of the air conditioning operation (heating operation or cooling operation) of the air conditioner 11. Furthermore, the input information includes the target temperature of each of the rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d). The target temperature in this embodiment is the temperature of each room 7 that is to be achieved and maintained by air conditioning by the air conditioning system 1 (air conditioning method).

[0050] [Output device] The output device 25 of this embodiment is configured as a display provided on the housing of the control device 15 shown in Fig. 1. Such an output device 25 receives a signal (data) from the control device 15 and can display, for example, the operating status of the air conditioning system 1. One example of the operating status is the operating status (heating operation or cooling operation) of the air conditioner 11, and the target temperature and room temperature of each of the multiple rooms 7.

[0051] [Arithmetic device] As shown in Fig. 3, the calculation device 21 of this embodiment is composed of, for example, a CPU (central processing unit). The calculation device 21 (control device 15) of this embodiment is communicatively connected to the air conditioner 11. This allows the calculation device 21 to control the operation of the air conditioner 11 (for example, changing the set temperature and the air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c shown in Fig. 1). Furthermore, data related to the operating status of the air conditioner 11 can be received by the calculation device 21.

[0052] The calculation device 21 (control device 15) of this embodiment is communicatively connected to the fans 13 (first fan 13a and second fan 13b) and the outside air supply fan 19. This allows the calculation device 21 to control the operation of the fans 13 and the outside air supply fan 19 (e.g., switching of air volume notches, etc.). Furthermore, the calculation device 21 can receive signals from the fan 13 (data such as the currently operating air volume notch and rotation speed).

[0053] The arithmetic device 21 of this embodiment is communicatively connected to the room temperature sensor 14. As a result, the arithmetic device 21 receives signals from the room temperature sensor 14 (in this example, measurement data of the room temperatures of the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d shown in FIG. 1).

[0054] [Storage device] The storage device 22 of the present embodiment is, for example, a non-volatile information storage device. The storage device 22 includes a data section 27 and a program section .

[0055] [Data section] The data section 27 of this embodiment is for storing the results of calculations by the arithmetic device 21, etc. The data section 27 of this embodiment includes a target temperature input section 27a, a room temperature input section 27b, a maximum rotation speed input section 27c, a score input section 27d, and an average value input section 27e. Note that the data section 27 is not limited to this aspect. For example, the data section 27 may further include an input section for storing other information.

[0056] The target temperature input unit 27a is for storing the target temperatures of the rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d) shown in Fig. 1. The target temperatures are input by a user (resident) or the like via the input device 24, for example. The room temperature input unit 27b is for storing the room temperatures of the rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d) measured by the room temperature sensor 14.

[0057] The maximum rotation speed input section 27c is for storing a predetermined maximum rotation speed of the fans 13 (first fan 13a and second fan 13b) shown in Fig. 1. This maximum rotation speed is input to the maximum rotation speed input section 27c before the air conditioning method is carried out. The information (data) stored in the score input section 27d and average value input section 27e will be explained in each step of the air conditioning method for a building (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "air conditioning method") described later.

[0058] [Program section] The program section 28 is a program (computer program) for causing the arithmetic device 21 (control device 15) to execute the air conditioning method of the present embodiment. The program section (program) 27, when executed by the arithmetic device 21, causes the control device 15 to function as a specific means.

[0059] The program unit 28 of this embodiment includes a room temperature acquisition unit 28a, a normal operation unit 28b, a rapid operation unit 28c, a first judgment unit 28d, a second judgment unit 28e, a third judgment unit 28f, a fourth judgment unit 28g, and a fifth judgment unit 28h. Furthermore, the program unit 28 of this embodiment includes a target temperature acquisition unit 28i, an air conditioning start unit 28j, an air conditioning end unit 28k, an end judgment unit 28m, an air conditioning operation adjustment unit 28n, a damper opening adjustment unit 28o, a score acquisition unit 28p, an average value acquisition unit 28q, and a maximum rotation speed judgment unit 28r. Note that the program unit 28 is not limited to this embodiment, and may include other programs. The functions of these program units 28 will be described in each step of the air conditioning method described later.

[0060] [Building air conditioning methods] Next, the air conditioning method of this embodiment will be described. Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure of the air conditioning method for a building.

[0061] [Start air conditioning] In the air conditioning method of this embodiment, first, air conditioning operation is started (step S1). In step S1 of this embodiment, the operation of the air conditioner 11, the fan 13, and the outside air supply fan 19 shown in Fig. 1 is started. Note that, if the air conditioning system 1 is not provided with the outside air supply fan 19, starting the operation of the outside air supply fan 19 may be omitted.

[0062] In step S1 of this embodiment, an air-conditioning start unit 28j included in the program unit 28 shown in Fig. 3 is loaded into the working memory 23. The air-conditioning start unit 28j is a program for starting air-conditioning operation (in this example, operation of the air conditioner 11, the fan 13, and the outdoor air supply fan 19). Execution of this air-conditioning start unit 28j by the arithmetic device 21 causes the control device 15 to function as a means for starting air-conditioning operation.

[0063] In step S1 of this embodiment, first, the air conditioning starting unit 28j (control device 15) starts the air conditioning operation (heating operation or cooling operation) of the air conditioner 11 shown in Fig. 1. The switching between the heating operation and the cooling operation may be performed, for example, by an input by a user (resident) to the input device 24, or may be performed by the air conditioning starting unit 28j based on the outside air temperature or the like.

[0064] The set temperature (initial set temperature) of the air conditioner 11 is set appropriately based on, for example, the target temperatures set for each of the multiple rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d), the room temperatures, etc. The air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c is selected appropriately from the above-mentioned first to fifth air volumes depending on, for example, the operating status (air conditioning load) of the air conditioner 11, etc. The set temperature of the air conditioner 11 and the air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c may be set based on the same procedure as in step S8 of adjusting the operation of the air conditioner 11 described below.

[0065] Next, in step S1 of this embodiment, the air conditioning starting unit 28j (control device 15) shown in FIG. 3 starts the operation of the fan 13 and the outside air supply fan 19 shown in FIG. 1. The air volume notch of the fan 13 is appropriately selected from the above-mentioned slight notch to strong notch (maximum air volume notch) according to, for example, the ventilation frequency required for the building 2 and the operating condition (air conditioning load) of the air conditioner 11. Note that, when a strong air conditioning effect is required in the living room 7, it is preferable to operate at the strong notch (maximum air volume notch). In this case, the selection of the air volume notch may be performed based on, for example, the same procedure as in the normal operation step S38 described later. Also, the air volume of the outside air supply fan 19 is appropriately set based on, for example, the ventilation frequency required for the building 2.

[0066] 1, in step S1 of this embodiment, a mixture of under-floor air Au (outside air Ao) supplied by the operation of the outside air supply fan 19 and air Ai circulated through the multiple rooms 7 is drawn into the indoor unit 16. Then, conditioned air Ac that has been heat exchanged in the indoor unit 16 is discharged into the chamber box 17.

[0067] The conditioned air Ac is supplied to each of the multiple rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d) through the duct 12 (the first duct 12a and the second duct 12b) by operation of the fans 13 (the first fan 13a and the second fan 13b). As a result, in the step S1, the multiple rooms 7 can be ventilated and air-conditioned while circulating the air Ai inside the building 2.

[0068] [Enter the target room temperature] Next, in the air conditioning method of this embodiment, the target temperature of the room 7 shown in Fig. 1 is input (step S2). In step S2 of this embodiment, first, the target temperature acquisition unit 28i included in the program unit 28 shown in Fig. 3 is loaded into the working memory 23. The target temperature acquisition unit 28i is a program for inputting the target temperatures of the rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d) shown in Fig. 1. By executing the target temperature acquisition unit 28i by the arithmetic device 21, the control device 15 can function as a means for inputting the target temperatures.

[0069] As described above, in this embodiment, the target temperatures for the rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d) shown in Fig. 1 are input by a user (resident) or the like via the input device 24. These target temperatures (signals) are transmitted from the input device 24 to the target temperature acquisition unit 28i (control device 15) shown in Fig. 3 and stored (input) in the target temperature input unit 27a.

[0070] After step S2 is performed, each time the target temperature is updated, the updated target temperature is preferably input to the target temperature input unit 27a. This makes it possible to air-condition the building 2 based on the target temperature updated in real time.

[0071] [Get room temperature] Next, in the air conditioning method of the present embodiment, the room temperature is acquired from the room temperature sensor 14 shown in FIG. 1 (step S3).

[0072] In step S3 of this embodiment, the room temperature acquisition unit 28a included in the program unit 28 shown in Fig. 3 is loaded into the working memory 23. The room temperature acquisition unit 28a is a program for acquiring the room temperatures of the rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d) shown in Fig. 1. Execution of this room temperature acquisition unit 28a by the arithmetic device 21 causes the control device 15 to function as a means for acquiring the room temperatures.

[0073] As described above, in this embodiment, the temperatures of the rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d) are measured by the room temperature sensor 14. These room temperatures are transmitted from the room temperature sensor 14 to the room temperature acquisition unit 28a (control device 15) shown in Fig. 3 and input (stored) in the room temperature input unit 27b.

[0074] After step S3 is performed, it is preferable that the room temperature measured by the room temperature sensor 14 is input to the room temperature input unit 27b at predetermined time intervals (for example, 1 to 30 minutes). This enables air conditioning based on the room temperature that changes from moment to moment, improving the temperature controllability and comfort of the room 7. Furthermore, it becomes possible to acquire the room temperature in chronological order.

[0075] [Get the points associated with the temperature difference] Next, in the air conditioning method of this embodiment, a score associated with the temperature difference between the room temperature and the target temperature is obtained (step S4). When multiple rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d) shown in Fig. 1 are air-conditioned as in this embodiment, a score (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a "score") associated with the temperature difference between the room temperature and the target temperature is obtained for each of these rooms 7. These scores are used to grasp the degree to which the room temperature has reached the target temperature for each room 7.

[0076] In step S4 of the present embodiment, the target temperature for the room 7 inputted to the target temperature input unit 27a shown in Fig. 3 and the room temperature inputted to the room temperature input unit 27b are loaded into the working memory 23. Furthermore, in step S4, a score acquisition unit 28p included in the program unit 28 is loaded into the working memory 23. The score acquisition unit 28p is a program for acquiring a score associated with the temperature difference between the room temperature and the target temperature for the rooms 7 (the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d in this example) shown in Fig. 1. The execution of this score acquisition unit 28p by the arithmetic device 21 allows the control device 15 to function as a means for acquiring a score.

[0077] In this embodiment, the negative difference between the room temperature and the target temperature (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "negative difference") ΔT between the room temperature and the target temperature is calculated as the temperature difference between the room temperature and the target temperature. When the room temperature has not reached the target temperature (i.e., when it is negative), this negative difference ΔT is a value obtained by subtracting one of the target temperature and the room temperature from the other so that the difference between them becomes positive.

[0078] 1, "when the room temperature has not reached the target temperature (negative)" refers to a case where the room temperature is lower than the target temperature. Therefore, the temperature difference ΔT during heating operation is calculated as the value obtained by subtracting the room temperature from the target temperature (i.e., a value that is positive in the case of a negative value).

[0079] When the temperature difference ΔT during heating operation is a positive value, the room temperature has not reached the target temperature (i.e., the room temperature is lower than the target temperature). In this case, it may be determined that the larger the value of the temperature difference ΔT, the stronger the air conditioning (heating) effect is required in room 7. On the other hand, when the temperature difference ΔT during heating operation is equal to or less than zero, the room temperature has reached the target temperature (i.e., the room temperature is equal to or higher than the target temperature). In this case, it may be determined that the room 7 does not require strong air conditioning (heating) effect.

[0080] During cooling operation of the air conditioner 11, "when the room temperature has not reached the target temperature (negative)" refers to a case where the room temperature is higher than the target temperature. Therefore, the temperature difference ΔT during cooling operation is calculated as the value obtained by subtracting the target temperature from the room temperature (i.e., a value that is positive in the case of a negative result).

[0081] When the temperature difference ΔT during cooling operation is a positive value, the room temperature has not reached the target temperature (i.e., the room temperature is higher than the target temperature). In this case, it may be determined that the larger the value of the temperature difference ΔT, the stronger the air conditioning (cooling) action required in room 7. On the other hand, when the negative side difference ΔT during cooling operation is zero or less, the room temperature has reached the target temperature (i.e., the room temperature is below the target temperature). In this case, it may be determined that the stronger air conditioning (cooling) action is not required in room 7.

[0082] In step S4 of this embodiment, a temperature difference (negative difference) ΔT between the room temperature and the target temperature is obtained for each of the multiple rooms (first room 7a to fourth room 7d in this example) shown in FIG.

[0083] Next, in step S4 of this embodiment, a score associated with the temperature difference ΔT is obtained. There are no particular limitations on the score as long as it is associated with the temperature difference ΔT. In this embodiment, a different score S is set for each predetermined numerical range (threshold) of the temperature difference ΔT. The numerical range of the temperature difference ΔT can be set appropriately according to, for example, the air conditioning accuracy required for the air conditioning system 1.

[0084] 5 is a diagram showing the correspondence relationship between the temperature difference ΔT between the room temperature and the target temperature and the score S associated with the temperature difference ΔT. In this embodiment, the score S increases in proportion to the temperature difference ΔT. Therefore, the score S is associated with the temperature difference ΔT.

[0085] In rooms 7 with a large score S, the temperature difference (negative difference) ΔT between the room temperature and the target temperature is large, so the degree to which the room temperature has reached the target temperature is low. In such rooms 7, strong air conditioning is required, so it is preferable to increase the air conditioning load. On the other hand, in rooms 7 with a small score S, the temperature difference (negative difference) ΔT between the room temperature and the target temperature is small, so the degree to which the room temperature has reached the target temperature is high. In such rooms 7, strong air conditioning is not required, so it is preferable to reduce the air conditioning load. In this way, the score S is set as a load point that indicates the magnitude of the air conditioning load.

[0086] In step S4 of this embodiment, for each of the multiple rooms (first room 7a to fourth room 7d in this example) shown in Fig. 1, a score S corresponding to the temperature difference ΔT is calculated based on the correspondence relationship shown in Fig. 5. The score S of the multiple rooms 7 is input (stored) in score input unit 27d shown in Fig. 3.

[0087] [Calculate the average score] Next, in the air conditioning method of this embodiment, the average value of the scores S of each of the multiple rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d) is obtained (step S5). In this embodiment, as the average value of the scores S, a floor average value (first floor average value and second floor average value) which is the average value of the scores S for each room 7 provided on each floor of the building 2, and an overall average value which is the average value of the scores S for all rooms 7 provided in the building 2 are obtained.

[0088] In step S5 of this embodiment, the score S associated with the temperature difference ΔT of the room 7 inputted into the score input unit 27d shown in Fig. 3, and an average value acquiring unit 28q included in the program unit 28 are read into the working memory 23. The average value acquiring unit 28q is a program for acquiring the average value of the scores S of each of the rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d) shown in Fig. 1. By executing this average value acquiring unit 28q by the calculation device 21, the control device 15 can function as a means for acquiring the average value.

[0089] In step S5 of this embodiment, first, the average value of the scores S of each of the rooms 7 on the first floor (in this example, the first room 7a and the second room 7b) shown in Fig. 1 is calculated. This allows the first floor average value to be obtained. Even if the temperature difference (the degree to which the room temperature has reached the target temperature) ΔT is different between the first room 7a and the second room, this first floor average value can be obtained as the score S associated with the intermediate (average) temperature difference ΔT.

[0090] The larger the first floor average value, the lower the degree to which the room temperature in the first floor rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a and the second room 7b) as a whole has reached the target temperature, indicating that strong air conditioning is required. On the other hand, the smaller the first floor average value, the higher the degree to which the room temperature in the first floor rooms 7 as a whole has reached the target temperature, indicating that strong air conditioning is not required.

[0091] Next, in step S5 of this embodiment, the average value of the scores S for each of the rooms 7 on the second floor (in this example, the third room 7c and the fourth room 7d) is calculated. This allows the second floor average value to be obtained. Even if the temperature difference ΔT (the degree to which the room temperature has reached the target temperature) is different between the third room 7c and the fourth room 7d, this second floor average value can be obtained as the score S associated with their intermediate (average) temperature difference ΔT.

[0092] The larger the second floor average value, the lower the degree to which the room temperature has reached the target temperature in the second floor rooms 7 (the third room 7c and the fourth room 7d in this example), indicating that strong air conditioning is required. On the other hand, the smaller the second floor average value, the higher the degree to which the room temperature has reached the target temperature in the second floor rooms 7 as a whole, indicating that strong air conditioning is not required.

[0093] Next, in step S5 of this embodiment, the average value of the scores S of each of the multiple rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d) provided in the building 2 is calculated. In this way, an overall average value is obtained. Even if the temperature difference ΔT (how the room temperature has reached the target temperature) is different for each room 7 (the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d), such an overall average value can be obtained as the score S associated with the intermediate (average) temperature difference ΔT.

[0094] The larger the overall average value, the lower the degree to which the room temperature has reached the target temperature for all of the multiple rooms 7 (first room 7a to fourth room 7d in this example) in the building 2, indicating that strong air conditioning is required. On the other hand, the smaller the overall average value, the higher the degree to which the room temperature has reached the target temperature for all of the multiple rooms 7 in the building 2, indicating that strong air conditioning is not required.

[0095] The average value of the score S is not limited to the first floor average value, the second floor average value, and the overall average value, and for example, when a room 7 (not shown) provided on the third floor or higher of the building 2 is included, the third floor average value may be acquired. The average values ​​of the score S (in this example, the first floor average value, the second floor average value, and the overall average value) are input (stored) in the average value input unit 27e shown in FIG. 3.

[0096] [Adjusting the fan airflow notch (fan airflow notch adjustment process)] Next, in the air conditioning method of this embodiment, the air volume notch of the fan 13 shown in Fig. 1 is adjusted (fan air volume notch adjustment step S6). When a plurality of fans 13 (in this example, the first fan 13a and the second fan 13b) are provided as in this embodiment, the air volume notch is adjusted for each of the fans 13.

[0097] As described above, fans 13 (first fan 13a and second fan 13b) are selected to have power and size that are assumed to be capable of controlling the temperature of room 7. However, when air conditioning system 1 is used in an environment that is worse than expected due to the influence of the ever-changing amount of solar radiation, outside air, heat generated from daily life, and the like, there is a problem that temperature control of room 7 becomes temporarily impossible, decreasing the comfort of room 7.

[0098] In the fan airflow notch adjustment process S6 of this embodiment, when the rotation speed of the fan 13 operating at the maximum airflow notch (strong notch airflow Q1) still has some spare capacity, as shown in the second resistance curve C3 in Fig. 2, the rotation speed of the fan 13 is increased up to the maximum rotation speed. As a result, more conditioned air Ac is pressure-fed to the room 7 that requires strong air conditioning than when operating at the maximum airflow notch, so that even when the air-conditioning system 1 is used in the above-mentioned environment, it is possible to control the temperature of the room 7, and the comfort of the room 7 is further improved. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the fan airflow notch adjustment process S6.

[0099] [Adjusting the first fan's airflow notch (first airflow notch adjustment process)] In the fan airflow notch adjusting step S6 of the present embodiment, first, the airflow notch of the first fan 13a shown in Fig. 1 is adjusted (first airflow notch adjusting step S21). Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure of the first airflow notch adjusting step S21.

[0100] [Determine if the fan is running at maximum speed] In the first airflow notch adjustment step S21 of this embodiment, first, it is determined whether or not the fan (first fan 13a) is operating at the maximum rotation speed (step S31).

[0101] In step S31 of this embodiment, the maximum rotation speed of the fan 13 (first fan 13a) inputted to the maximum rotation speed input unit 27c shown in FIG. 3 and the maximum rotation speed determination unit 28r included in the program unit 28 are read into the working memory 23. The maximum rotation speed determination unit 28r is a program for determining whether or not the fan 13 (first fan 13a) is operating at the maximum rotation speed. The maximum rotation speed determination unit 28r is executed by the arithmetic unit 21, thereby allowing the control device 15 to function as a means for determining whether or not the first fan 13a is operating at the maximum rotation speed.

[0102] In step S31 of this embodiment, the maximum rotation speed determination unit 28r (control device 15) acquires the rotation speed of the first fan 13a currently in operation based on a signal related to the rotation speed transmitted from the first fan 13a. Then, based on the acquired rotation speed, it is determined whether the first fan 13a is operating at the maximum rotation speed.

[0103] If it is determined that the first fan 13a is operating at the maximum rotation speed ("Yes" in step S31), there is no need to perform the rapid operation step S37 described below for increasing the rotation speed of the first fan 13a up to the maximum rotation speed. In this case, a fifth determination step S33 is performed to determine whether or not a strong air conditioning effect (operation of the first fan 13a at the maximum rotation speed) is no longer necessary.

[0104] On the other hand, if it is determined that the first fan 13a is not operating at maximum rotation speed ("No" in step S31), a first judgment step S32 is performed to determine whether or not stronger air conditioning may be required in the living room 7 (the first living room 7a or the second living room 7b).

[0105] [Determine whether the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature is greater than or equal to the threshold (first judgment step)] Next, in the first airflow notch adjustment step S21 of this embodiment, it is determined whether or not the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value (first determination step S32).

[0106] In this embodiment, it is determined whether or not strong air conditioning is required in the rooms 7 (first room 7a and second room 7b) to which the conditioned air Ac is pressurized by the fan 13 (first fan 13a), based on the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature. In this embodiment, it is determined whether or not the first floor average value acquired in step S5 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, for the score S associated with the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature (negative difference). The threshold value is set appropriately based on the air conditioning effect required for the room 7, and may be set to, for example, "4.5 points."

[0107] In the first judgment step S32 of this embodiment, the first-order average value of the score S stored in the average value input unit 27e shown in Fig. 3 and a first judgment unit 28d included in the program unit 28 are loaded into the working memory 23. The first judgment unit 28d is a program for judging whether or not the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value. The first judgment unit 28d is executed by the arithmetic unit 21, thereby allowing the control device 15 to function as a means for judging whether or not the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value.

[0108] If it is determined that the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature (the average value of the first floor of the score S) is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold ("Yes" in the first judgment step S32), there is a possibility that strong air conditioning is required in the room 7 (the first room 7a or the second room 7b). In this case, it is preferable to determine whether the first fan 13a is operating at the maximum air volume notch before increasing the rotation speed of the first fan 13a up to the maximum rotation speed. Therefore, if the judgment of the first judgment unit 28d is positive ("Yes" in the first judgment step S32), a second judgment step S34 is performed to determine whether the fan (the first fan 13a) is operating at the maximum air volume notch (air volume Q1 of the strong notch shown in FIG. 2) which has the largest air volume among the multiple air volume notches.

[0109] On the other hand, if it is determined that the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature (the average value of the first floor of the score S) is less than the threshold value ("No" in the first judgment step S32), strong air conditioning is not required in the first room 7a and the second room 7b. In this case, even if the rotation speed of the first fan 13a still has some spare capacity, it is not necessary to increase the rotation speed of the first fan 13a up to the maximum rotation speed. Therefore, the normal operation step S38 is performed to operate the first fan 13a at any one of the above-mentioned multiple air volume notches (weak notch to strong notch). This prevents the air conditioning from becoming greater than necessary, making it possible to improve the temperature controllability and comfort of the rooms. Furthermore, an increase in power consumption of the fan 13 is suppressed, improving energy saving.

[0110] [Determine whether the fan is operating at the maximum airflow notch (second determination step)] Next, in the first airflow notch adjustment step S21 of this embodiment, it is determined whether the fan (first fan 13a) is operating at the maximum airflow notch (airflow Q1 of the strong notch shown in FIG. 2) which has the largest airflow among the multiple airflow notches (second determination step S34). This second determination step S34 is performed when the determination in the first determination step S32 (first determination unit 28d) is positive.

[0111] In the second determination step S34 of this embodiment, a second determination unit 28e included in the program unit 28 shown in Fig. 3 is loaded into the working memory 23. The second determination unit 28e is a program for determining whether or not the fan 13 (first fan 13a) is operating at the maximum airflow notch. The second determination unit 28e is executed by the arithmetic device 21, thereby allowing the control device 15 to function as a means for determining whether or not the first fan 13a is operating at the maximum airflow notch.

[0112] In the second determination step S34 of this embodiment, the second determination unit 28e (control device 15) acquires the air volume notch of the first fan 13a currently operating based on a signal related to the air volume notch transmitted from the first fan 13a. Then, in the second determination step S34, it is determined whether the first fan 13a is operating at the maximum air volume notch (air volume Q1 of the strong notch shown in FIG. 2) based on the acquired air volume notch.

[0113] When it is determined that the first fan 13a is operating at the maximum air volume notch ("Yes" in the second judgment step S34), as described above, a strong air conditioning action is required in the room 7 (the first room 7a or the second room 7b). In this case, it is possible that the pressure supply of the conditioned air Ac at the maximum air volume notch is not sufficient, and a stronger air conditioning action is required. In such a case, if there is still a margin in the rotation speed of the first fan 13a, it is preferable to increase the rotation speed of the first fan 13a within the range up to the maximum rotation speed so that more conditioned air Ac is supplied. Therefore, when the judgment of the second judgment unit 28e is positive ("Yes" in the second judgment step S34), a third judgment step S35 is performed to determine whether there is still a margin in the rotation speed of the first fan 13a.

[0114] On the other hand, if it is determined that the first fan 13a is not operating at the maximum air volume notch ("No" in the second determination step S34), strong air conditioning is not required in the first living room 7a and the second living room 7b. In this case, even if the rotation speed of the first fan 13a still has some spare capacity, it is not necessary to increase the rotation speed of the first fan 13a up to the maximum rotation speed. Therefore, a normal operation step S38 is performed in which the first fan 13a is operated at any one of the above-mentioned multiple air volume notches (slight notch to strong notch). This prevents the air conditioning from becoming excessively large, and improves the temperature controllability and comfort of the living room. Furthermore, an increase in power consumption of the fan 13 is suppressed, improving energy saving.

[0115] [Determine whether the fan speed is lower than the maximum speed (third determination step)] Next, in the first airflow notch adjustment step S21 of this embodiment, it is determined whether the rotation speed of the fan 13 (first fan 13a) operating at the maximum airflow notch is lower than the maximum rotation speed of the fan 13 (third determination step S35). This third determination step S35 is performed when the determination in the second determination step S34 (second determination unit 28e) is affirmative.

[0116] In the third judgment step S35 of the present embodiment, the maximum rotation speed of the fan 13 (first fan 13a) inputted to the maximum rotation speed input unit 27c shown in FIG. 3 and the third judgment unit 28f included in the program unit 28 are read into the working memory 23. The third judgment unit 28f is a program for judging whether or not the rotation speed of the fan 13 (first fan 13a) operating at the maximum air volume notch is smaller than the maximum rotation speed previously set for the fan 13 (first fan 13a). The third judgment unit 28f is executed by the arithmetic device 21, thereby making the control device 15 function as a means for judging whether or not the rotation speed of the first fan 13a is smaller than the maximum rotation speed of the first fan 13a.

[0117] The determination as to whether the rotation speed of the first fan 13a operating at the maximum airflow notch is smaller than the maximum rotation speed of the first fan 13a is appropriately determined. In the third determination step S35 of this embodiment, first, the rotation speed of the first fan 13a operating at the maximum airflow notch is acquired based on a signal related to the rotation speed transmitted from the first fan 13a. Then, it is determined whether the rotation speed of the first fan 13a operating at the maximum airflow notch is smaller than the maximum rotation speed of the first fan 13a.

[0118] When it is determined that the rotation speed of the first fan 13a operating at the maximum air volume notch is lower than the maximum rotation speed of the first fan 13a ("Yes" in the third judgment step S35), the rotation speed of the first fan 13a still has some margin even though it is operating at the maximum air volume notch. Note that, since increasing the rotation speed of the first fan 13a within the range of the maximum rotation speed increases power consumption, it is preferable to determine whether or not a stronger air conditioning action is required in the living room 7 (the first living room 7a or the second living room 7b in this example). Therefore, when the judgment of the third judgment unit 28f is positive ("Yes" in the third judgment step S35), a fourth judgment step S36 is performed to determine whether or not a stronger air conditioning action is required in the living room 7 (the first living room 7a or the second living room 7b).

[0119] On the other hand, if it is determined that the rotation speed of the first fan 13a operating at the maximum airflow notch is equal to or greater than the maximum rotation speed of the first fan 13a ("No" in the third determination step S35), the rotation speed of the first fan 13a has no spare capacity, as shown by the first resistance curve C2 in Fig. 2. In this case, since the rotation speed of the first fan 13a cannot be increased any further, a normal operation step S38 is performed in which the first fan 13a is operated at any one of the above-mentioned multiple airflow notches (from the weak notch to the strong notch).

[0120] [Judge whether strong air conditioning is necessary (fourth judgment step)] Next, in the first air volume notch adjustment step S21 of this embodiment, it is determined whether or not a stronger air conditioning action is required based on a change in the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature (fourth determination step S36). This fourth determination step S36 is performed when the determination in the third determination step S35 (third determination unit 28f) is positive. In the fourth determination step S36 of this embodiment, it is determined whether or not a stronger air conditioning action is required in the rooms 7 (first room 7a and second room 7b) to which the conditioned air Ac is pressurized and delivered by the fan 13 (first fan 13a).

[0121] In the fourth judgment step S36 of the present embodiment, the target temperature inputted in the target temperature input section 27a shown in Fig. 3 and the room temperature inputted in time series in the room temperature input section 27b are read into the working memory 23. Next, in the fourth judgment step S36, a fourth judgment section 28g included in the program section 28 is read into the working memory 23. The fourth judgment section 28g is a program for judging whether or not a stronger air conditioning action is required based on a change in the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature. The fourth judgment section 28g is executed by the arithmetic device 21, thereby allowing the control device 15 to function as a means for judging whether or not a stronger air conditioning action is required.

[0122] The change in the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature can be appropriately determined if it can be determined whether or not strong air conditioning is required. Figure 8 is a graph for explaining the determination of whether or not strong air conditioning is required. This graph shows the relationship between the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature and time.

[0123] In this embodiment, first, at the first time t1, which is the current time when the fourth judgment step S36 is performed, the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature (first temperature difference ΔT1) is identified. This first temperature difference ΔT1 is the temperature difference (negative difference) between the room temperature and the target temperature. When the conditioned air Ac is pressure-fed by the first fan 13a to multiple rooms 7 (first room 7a and second room 7b) as in this embodiment, the average value of the first temperature differences ΔT1 between these rooms 7 is identified.

[0124] Next, at a second time t2, which is a time before the first time t1, the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature (second temperature difference ΔT2) is determined. This second temperature difference ΔT2 is the temperature difference (negative difference) between the room temperature and the target temperature.

[0125] The second time t2 is specified as, for example, a time between 1 and 60 minutes before the first time t1. In the case where the conditioned air Ac is pressure-fed by the first fan 13a to a plurality of rooms 7 (the first room 7a and the second room 7b) as in this embodiment, the average value of the second temperature differences ΔT2 between these rooms 7 is specified.

[0126] In this embodiment, the value obtained by subtracting the first temperature difference ΔT1 from the second temperature difference ΔT2 is specified as the change in the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature (ΔT2-ΔT1). If this change in temperature difference (ΔT2-ΔT1) is small, the room temperature hardly changes from the second time t2 to the first time t1 even though the first fan 13a is operating at the maximum air volume notch. For this reason, in this embodiment, if the change in temperature difference (ΔT2-ΔT1) is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, it is determined that stronger air conditioning is required in the room 7 (the first room 7a and the second room 7b). The threshold is set appropriately according to the time interval between the first time t1 and the second time t2, for example, and can be set to 0.5 to 2.0°C.

[0127] On the other hand, when the change in temperature difference (ΔT2-ΔT1) is large, the room temperature approaches the target temperature smoothly by operating the first fan 13a based on the maximum airflow notch. Therefore, when the change in temperature difference (ΔT2-ΔT1) is larger than the threshold, it is determined that strong air conditioning is not necessary in the room 7 (first room 7a and second room 7b) shown in FIG.

[0128] In the fourth determination step S36, when it is determined that stronger air conditioning is required in the rooms 7 (the first room 7a and the second room 7b) ("Yes" in the fourth determination step S36), it is preferable to further increase the rotation speed of the fan 13 (the first fan 13a) up to the maximum rotation speed. Therefore, the next rapid operation step S37 is performed.

[0129] On the other hand, if it is determined in the fourth judgment step S36 that strong air conditioning is not necessary in the living room 7 (first living room 7a and second living room 7b) ("No" in the fourth judgment step S36), there is no need to increase the rotation speed of the first fan 13a within the range of the maximum rotation speed. For this reason, a normal operation step S38 is performed in which the first fan 13a is operated at any one of the above-mentioned multiple air volume notches (from the weak notch to the strong notch). This makes it possible to prevent the air conditioning action from becoming greater than necessary, and to improve the temperature controllability and comfort of the living room 7. Furthermore, an increase in power consumption of the fan 13 is suppressed, and energy saving is improved.

[0130] [Further increase in fan 13 speed (rapid operation process)] Next, in the first air volume notch adjustment step S21 of this embodiment, the rotation speed of the fan 13 (first fan 13a) is further increased within the range up to the maximum rotation speed (rapid operation step S37). This rapid operation step S37 is performed when the determination in the fourth determination step S36 (fourth determination unit 28g) is affirmative.

[0131] In the rapid operation step S37 of this embodiment, first, the rapid operation section 28c included in the program section 28 shown in Fig. 3 is loaded into the working memory 23. The rapid operation section 28c is a program for further increasing the rotation speed of the fan 13 (first fan 13a) shown in Fig. 1 up to the maximum rotation speed. The rapid operation section 28c is executed by the arithmetic device 21, so that the control device 15 can function as a means for increasing the rotation speed of the fan 13.

[0132] In this embodiment, since the determination in the third determination step S35 (third determination unit 28f) is positive, even though the first fan 13a is operating at the maximum airflow notch, there is still some spare capacity in the rotation speed. Therefore, the rapid operation unit 28c (control device 15) can further increase the rotation speed of the fan 13 (first fan 13a) up to the maximum rotation speed.

[0133] The rotation speed of the first fan 13a is increased as appropriate within the range from the rotation speed at the maximum air volume notch to the maximum rotation speed. In this embodiment, the rotation speed of the first fan 13a is set to the maximum rotation speed. This allows the largest amount of conditioned air Ac to be pressure-fed to the rooms 7 (the first room 7a and the second room 7b) that require stronger air conditioning.

[0134] In this manner, in the first air volume notch adjustment step S21 of the present embodiment, even though the first fan 13a is operating at the maximum air volume notch, if the rotation speed of the first fan 13a still has a margin, the rotation speed of the first fan 13a can be increased within a range up to the maximum rotation speed. As a result, more conditioned air Ac is pressure-fed to the rooms 7 (the first room 7a and the second room 7b) that require stronger air conditioning than when operating at the maximum air volume notch, and the temperature controllability and comfort of the first room 7a and the second room 7b can be improved. Note that, in the rapid operation step S37, the rotation speed of the first fan 13a can be increased within a range up to the maximum rotation speed, and the air volume of the conditioned air Ac from the air conditioner 11 can be increased. As a result, it is possible to ensure a large amount of heat to be processed by the heat exchanger (not shown) of the air conditioner 11 itself, and the temperature controllability can be further improved.

[0135] [Determine whether or not strong air conditioning is no longer necessary (fifth determination step)] Next, in the first air volume notch adjustment step S21 of this embodiment, after the rapid operation unit 28c (rapid operation step S37) increases the rotation speed of the fan 13 up to the maximum rotation speed, it is determined whether or not strong air conditioning is no longer necessary (fifth determination step S33). In this embodiment, this step is performed when the determination in step S31 (maximum rotation speed determination unit 28r) of whether the fan (first fan 13a) is operating at the maximum rotation speed is affirmative ("Yes" in step S31).

[0136] In the fifth judgment step S33, a judgment as to whether or not strong air conditioning is no longer necessary is performed as appropriate. In this embodiment, a judgment is made as to whether or not strong air conditioning is no longer necessary in the rooms 7 (first room 7a and second room 7b) based on the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature. In this embodiment, a judgment is made as to whether or not the first floor average value acquired in step S5 is less than a predetermined threshold value for the score S associated with the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature (negative difference). The threshold value is set as appropriate based on the air conditioning effect required for the room 7, and is set to, for example, "4.5 points."

[0137] In the fifth judgment step S33 of this embodiment, the first-order average value of the score S stored in the average value input unit 27e shown in Fig. 3 and the fifth judgment unit 28h included in the program unit 28 are read into the working memory 23. The fifth judgment unit 28h is a program for judging whether or not strong air conditioning is no longer necessary after increasing the rotation speed of the fan 13. The fifth judgment unit 28h is executed by the arithmetic device 21, so that the control device 15 can function as a means for judging whether or not air conditioning is no longer necessary.

[0138] When the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature (the average value of the first floor of the score S) is less than a predetermined threshold, it is determined that strong air conditioning is no longer necessary in the rooms 7 (the first room 7a and the second room 7b) shown in FIG. 1 ("Yes" in the fifth judgment step S33). In this case, it is not necessary to continuously increase the rotation speed of the first fan 13a within the range of the maximum rotation speed. Therefore, when the judgment of the fifth judgment unit 28h is positive ("Yes" in the fifth judgment step S33), a normal operation step S38 is performed in which the first fan 13a is operated at any one of the above-mentioned multiple air volume notches (weak notch to strong notch). This makes it possible to prevent the air conditioning action from becoming greater than necessary, and to improve the temperature controllability and comfort of the room 7. Furthermore, an increase in the power consumption of the fan 13 is suppressed, and energy saving is improved.

[0139] On the other hand, if the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature (the first floor average value of the score S) is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, it may be determined that strong air conditioning is required continuously in the rooms 7 (the first room 7a and the second room 7b) (No in the fifth judgment step S33). In this case, it is preferable to continue increasing the rotation speed of the first fan 13a. Therefore, the series of processes in the first air volume notch adjustment step S21 ends without carrying out the normal operation step S38.

[0140] [Operate the fan at one of several airflow notches (normal operation process)] Next, in the first airflow notch adjustment step S21 of this embodiment, the fan 13 (first fan 13a) is operated based on any one of a plurality of airflow notches (from a weak notch to a strong notch) (normal operation step S38).

[0141] The airflow notch of the fan 13 can be appropriately determined based on, for example, the target temperatures set for each of the rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d), the room temperatures, etc. As described above, the score S associated with the temperature difference ΔT between the room temperature and the target temperature and the average values ​​of the scores S (the first floor average value, the second floor average value, and the overall average value) are obtained as parameters indicating the degree to which the room temperature has reached the target temperature. For this reason, it is preferable to determine the airflow notch of the fan 13 based on these parameters.

[0142] In the normal operation step S38 of this embodiment, the average value of the scores S inputted to the average value input unit 27e shown in Fig. 3 and a normal operation unit 28b included in the program unit 28 are loaded into the working memory 23. The normal operation unit 28b is a program for operating the fan 13 based on any one of a plurality of air volume notches (from a slight notch to a strong notch) in which different air volumes are set. By executing this normal operation unit 28b by the arithmetic device 21, it is possible to cause the control device 15 to function as a means for operating the fan 13 based on any one of the plurality of air volume notches.

[0143] The airflow notch of the fan 13 is preferably determined based on the average value of the scores S of the rooms 7 to which the conditioned air Ac is pressurized by the fan 13. In this embodiment, the first fan 13a pressurizes and sends the conditioned air Ac to the rooms 7 on the first floor (the first room 7a and the second room 7b). For this reason, the airflow notch of the first fan 13a is preferably determined based on the average value (the first floor average value) of the scores S of the rooms 7 on the first floor (the first room 7a and the second room 7b).

[0144] In this embodiment, the air volume notch of the fan 13 is determined based on the correspondence relationship between the first floor average value (second floor average value) and the air volume notch of the fan 13. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing the correspondence relationship between the average values ​​of the scores S associated with the temperature difference ΔT (first floor average value and second floor average value) and the air volume notch of the fan 13. Note that the correspondence relationship is not limited to this aspect, and can be set appropriately depending on, for example, the performance of the air conditioner 11 and the number and size of the rooms 7 to be air-conditioned.

[0145] As described above, the larger the first floor average value, the lower the degree to which the living room temperature of the living room 7 (in this example, the first living room 7a and the second living room 7b) located on the first floor as a whole has reached the target temperature, indicating that stronger air conditioning is required. In this case, a notch with a larger air volume can be determined from among the multiple air volume notches of the fan 13 (the first fan 13a). By operating the fan 13 based on such an air volume notch, the amount of conditioned air Ac supplied to the living room 7 located on the first floor can be increased, and the temperature controllability and comfort of the living room 7 can be improved.

[0146] On the other hand, the smaller the first floor average value, the higher the degree to which the living room temperature in the living rooms 7 on the first floor has reached the target temperature, indicating that strong air conditioning is not necessary. In this case, an air volume notch with a small air volume may be determined from among the multiple air volume notches. By operating the fan 13 (first fan 13a) based on such an air volume notch, the supply of conditioned air Ac to the living rooms 7 on the first floor is prevented from becoming greater than necessary, and the temperature controllability and comfort of the living rooms 7 may be improved. Furthermore, the power consumption of the fan 13 is reduced, improving energy savings.

[0147] In this way, in the normal operation step S38 of this embodiment, for example, the fan 13 (first fan 13a) can be operated at an airflow notch of the fan 13 determined based on the difference between the target temperature and the room temperature (temperature difference ΔT) or the average value of the scores S associated with the temperature difference ΔT. Thereby, the air conditioning method (air conditioning system 1) operates the fan 13 depending on how far the room temperature has reached the target temperature, thereby making it possible to improve the temperature controllability and comfort of the room 7 and energy saving.

[0148] In the normal operation step S38, it is preferable that the multiple fans 13 (the first fan 13a and the second fan 13b) are operated so that the total air volume of the multiple fans 13 is greater than the air volume of the conditioned air Ac from the air conditioner 11. In this way, in the air conditioning method (air conditioning system 1), it is possible to ventilate and air-condition the multiple rooms 7 while circulating the air Ai in the building 2, while preventing the conditioned air Ac from stagnating in the chamber box 17.

[0149] [Adjusting the second fan's airflow notch (second airflow notch adjustment process)] As shown in Fig. 6, in the fan airflow notch adjusting step S6 of this embodiment, the airflow notch of the second fan 13b shown in Fig. 1 is adjusted (second airflow notch adjusting step S22). In the second airflow notch adjusting step S22 of this embodiment, the airflow notch of the second fan 13b is adjusted based on a procedure similar to the processing procedure of the first airflow notch adjusting step S21 shown in Fig. 7.

[0150] In the second airflow notch adjustment process S22, when the second fan 13b is operating at the maximum airflow notch but the rotation speed of the second fan 13b still has some spare capacity, the rotation speed of the second fan 13b can be increased up to the maximum rotation speed. This allows more conditioned air Ac to be pressure-fed to rooms 7 that require stronger air conditioning (the third room 7c and the fourth room 7d in this example) than when operating at the maximum airflow notch, making it possible to improve the temperature controllability and comfort of these rooms 7.

[0151] Furthermore, in the fifth judgment step S33, when strong air conditioning is no longer required after increasing the rotation speed of the second fan 13b, a normal operation step S38 is performed. This prevents the air conditioning from becoming stronger than necessary, and improves the temperature controllability and comfort of the living room 7.

[0152] As shown in Fig. 6, in the fan airflow notch adjusting step S6 of this embodiment, a first airflow notch adjusting step S21 and a second airflow notch adjusting step S22 are performed. As a result, in the second judgment step S34 (second judgment unit 28e) shown in Fig. 7, a fan operating at the maximum airflow notch is identified among the multiple fans 13 (first fan 13a and second fan 13b). Next, in the third judgment step S35 (third judgment unit 28f), it is determined whether the number of revolutions of the fan 13 identified in the second judgment step S34 is smaller than the maximum number of revolutions. Next, in the fourth judgment step S36 (fourth judgment unit 28g), it is determined whether a stronger air conditioning action is required for the room 7 to which the conditioned air Ac is pressure-fed from the fan 13 identified in the second judgment step S34. Then, in the rapid operation process S37 (rapid operation unit 28c), if the judgments in the third judgment process S35 and the fourth judgment process S36 are both positive, the fan rotation speed identified in the second judgment process S34 is further increased up to the maximum rotation speed.

[0153] In this manner, in this embodiment, even if a plurality of fans 13 are provided to pressure-feed the conditioned air Ac to a plurality of rooms 7 via a plurality of ducts 12, the air volume notch of each fan 13 can be adjusted individually. This allows more conditioned air Ac to be pressure-feed to the rooms 7 requiring strong air conditioning (first room 7a to fourth room 7d) than when operating at the maximum air volume notch, thereby improving the temperature controllability and comfort of these rooms 7.

[0154] Furthermore, the air conditioning method (air conditioning system 1) of this embodiment switches between a normal operation step S38 and a rapid operation step S37 depending on how the room temperature has reached the target temperature. This allows the air conditioning method (air conditioning system 1) to flexibly change the air volume notch of the fan 13 so that the room temperature approaches the target temperature depending on the influence of the ever-changing amount of solar radiation, outside air, and heat generated in daily life. Therefore, the air conditioning method (air conditioning system 1) can improve the temperature controllability and comfort of the room.

[0155] As shown in Fig. 6, the fan airflow notch adjusting step S6 of the present embodiment includes a first airflow notch adjusting step S21 and a second airflow notch adjusting step S22, but is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, when the fan 13 is composed of only the first fan 13a, the fan airflow notch adjusting step S6 may include only the first airflow notch adjusting step S21. When the fan 13 is composed of only the second fan 13b, the fan airflow notch adjusting step S6 may include only the second airflow notch adjusting step S22. Furthermore, when another fan (not shown) different from the first fan 13a and the second fan 13b is further included, a step (not shown) for adjusting the airflow notch of the fan may be further included.

[0156] [Adjust damper opening] Next, as shown in Fig. 4, in the air conditioning method of the present embodiment, the opening degree of the damper 20 shown in Fig. 1 may be adjusted (step S7). When a plurality of dampers 20 (in this example, the first damper 20a to the fourth damper 20d) are provided as in the present embodiment, the opening degree of each damper 20 is adjusted.

[0157] In this embodiment, the opening degree of the dampers 20 (in this example, the first damper 20a to the fourth damper 20d) can be adjusted based on the target temperature set for each of the rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d), the room temperature, etc. As described above, the score S associated with the temperature difference between the room temperature and the target temperature is acquired as a parameter indicating the degree to which the room temperature has reached the target temperature. For this reason, it is preferable to adjust the opening degree of each of the dampers 20 based on these parameters.

[0158] In step S7 of the present embodiment, the score S of each room 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d) inputted to the score input section 27d shown in Fig. 3, and the damper opening adjustment section 28o included in the program section 28 shown in Fig. 3 are read into the working memory 23. The damper opening adjustment section 28o is a program for adjusting the opening of the dampers 20 (in this example, the first damper 20a to the fourth damper 20d) shown in Fig. 1. By executing the damper opening adjustment section 28o by the arithmetic device 21, the control device 15 can function as a means for adjusting the opening of the dampers 20.

[0159] The opening degree of the dampers 20 (in this example, the first damper 20a to the fourth damper 20d) is preferably determined based on the score S of each room 7 (the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d) in which the dampers 20 are provided. In this case, the opening degree of the first damper 20a is determined based on the score S of the first room 7a. The opening degree of the second damper 20b is determined based on the score S of the second room 7b. The opening degree of the third damper 20c is determined based on the score S of the third room 7c. The opening degree of the fourth damper 20d is determined based on the score S of the fourth room 7d.

[0160] 10 is a diagram showing the correspondence relationship between the score S associated with the temperature difference ΔT and the damper opening degree. Note that the correspondence relationship is not limited to this embodiment, and can be set appropriately depending on, for example, the performance of the air conditioner 11, the number and size of the rooms 7 to be air-conditioned, etc.

[0161] As described above, in a room 7 with a large value of the score S, the degree to which the room temperature has reached the target temperature is low, and strong air conditioning is required. In this case, a large opening is determined from among the multiple openings of the damper 20. By adjusting the damper 20 to such a large opening, for example, even if the air volume of the fan 13 (first fan 13a or second fan 13b) is set to a small value, the amount of conditioned air Ac supplied to the room 7 requiring strong air conditioning becomes relatively large. This can improve the temperature controllability and comfort of the room 7.

[0162] On the other hand, in the living room 7 with a small score S, the degree of reaching the room temperature relative to the target temperature is high, and strong air conditioning is not required. In this case, a small opening is determined among the multiple openings of the damper 20. By adjusting the damper 20 to such a small opening, for example, even if the air volume of the fan 13 (the first fan 13a or the second fan 13b) is set to a large value, the supply amount of the conditioned air Ac to the living room 7 that does not require strong air conditioning is suppressed from becoming larger than necessary. This can improve the temperature controllability and comfort of the living room 7. Note that, as shown in FIG. 9, when the fan 13 is set to a strong notch (maximum air volume notch) or higher, the average value of the score S is 4.0 points or more, and the scores S (shown in FIG. 10) of the multiple living rooms 7 also become large values, so that the dampers 20 of the multiple living rooms 7 are set to large openings. This can suppress an increase in pressure loss of the conditioned air Ac that is likely to occur when the openings of some dampers 20 are set to a small value, for example.

[0163] [Adjusting air conditioner operation] Next, in the air conditioning method of the present embodiment, the operation of the air conditioner 11 shown in Fig. 1 is adjusted (step S8). In step S8 of the present embodiment, the set temperature of the air conditioner 11 and the air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c are adjusted.

[0164] The set temperature of the air conditioner 11 and the air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c shown in Fig. 1 can be appropriately determined, for example, based on the target temperatures set for each of the rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d) and the room temperatures. In this embodiment, a score S associated with the temperature difference between the room temperature and the target temperature and the average value of the score S (first floor average value, second floor average value, and overall average value) are obtained as parameters indicating the degree to which the room temperature has reached the target temperature. For this reason, it is preferable to determine the set temperature of the air conditioner 11 and the air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c based on these parameters.

[0165] In step S8 of this embodiment, the average value of the scores S inputted to the average value input unit 27e shown in Fig. 3 and an air conditioning operation adjustment unit 28n included in the program unit 28 shown in Fig. 3 are loaded into the work memory 23. The air conditioning operation adjustment unit 28n is a program for adjusting the operation of the air conditioner 11 shown in Fig. 1 (in this example, the set temperature of the air conditioner 11 and the air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c). By executing this air conditioning operation adjustment unit 28n by the arithmetic device 21, the control device 15 can function as a means for adjusting the operation of the air conditioner 11.

[0166] In step S8 of this embodiment, first, the set temperature of the air conditioner is determined. In this embodiment, for example, the set temperature of the air conditioner 11 is determined based on the following formula (1). E = R + C … (1) Where: E: Set temperature R: Reference temperature C: Adjustment temperature

[0167] In the above formula (1), the reference temperature R can be set as appropriate as long as it can improve the temperature controllability and comfort of the room 7. During heating operation, the highest target temperature among the multiple rooms 7 (first room 7a to fourth room 7d) is set as the reference temperature R. During cooling operation, the lowest target temperature among the multiple rooms 7 (first room 7a to fourth room 7d) is set as the reference temperature R.

[0168] In the above formula (1), the adjustment temperature C can be appropriately determined based on, for example, the average value of the scores S associated with the temperature difference ΔT between the room temperature and the target temperature (in this example, the overall average value). In this embodiment, it is preferable to determine the adjustment temperature C based on the correspondence relationship between the overall average value and the adjustment temperature C. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the correspondence relationship between the average value (overall average value) of the scores S associated with the temperature difference ΔT and the adjustment temperature C. Note that the correspondence relationship is not limited to this aspect, and can be appropriately set depending on, for example, the performance of the air conditioner 11 and the number and size of the rooms 7 to be air-conditioned.

[0169] As described above, a large overall average value indicates that the degree to which the room temperature has reached the target temperature is low across the multiple rooms 7 (first room 7a to fourth room 7d in this example) provided in the building 2, and that strong air conditioning is required. In this case, as shown in Fig. 11, the larger the overall average value is, the higher (higher value) the adjustment temperature C is determined to be during heating operation of the air conditioner 11, and the lower (lower value) the adjustment temperature C is determined to be during cooling operation. By determining the set temperature E of the air conditioner 11 based on such adjustment temperature C, the air conditioning load of the air conditioner 11 increases, and the temperature controllability and comfort of the rooms 7 can be improved.

[0170] On the other hand, a small overall average value indicates that the living room temperature of the multiple rooms 7 in the building 2 as a whole has reached a high degree relative to the target temperature, and strong air conditioning is not necessary. In this case, as shown in Fig. 11, the smaller the overall average value, the lower (lower value) the adjustment temperature C is determined to be during heating operation of the air conditioner 11, and the higher (higher value) the adjustment temperature C is determined to be during cooling operation. By determining the set temperature E of the air conditioner 11 based on such adjustment temperature C, the air conditioning load (heating load) of the air conditioner 11 is reduced, improving energy conservation.

[0171] Next, in step S8 of this embodiment, the air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c is determined. In this embodiment, for example, the air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c can be determined based on the average value (in this example, the overall average value) of the score S associated with the temperature difference ΔT between the room temperature and the target temperature. In this embodiment, it is preferable to determine the air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c based on the correspondence relationship between the overall average value and the air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the correspondence relationship between the average value (overall average value) of the score S associated with the temperature difference ΔT and the air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c. Note that the correspondence relationship is not limited to such an embodiment, and can be appropriately set according to, for example, the performance of the air conditioner 11, the number and size of the rooms 7 to be air-conditioned, and the like.

[0172] As described above, a large overall average value indicates that the room temperatures of the multiple rooms 7 (first room 7a to fourth room 7d in this example) in the building 2 are reaching a low level relative to the target temperature, and strong air conditioning is required. In this case, a large air volume may be determined from the multiple air volumes of the indoor unit fan 16c. By performing air conditioning operation by the air conditioner 11 based on this air volume, the supply amount of conditioned air Ac may increase, improving the temperature controllability and comfort of the rooms 7.

[0173] On the other hand, if the overall average value is small, it indicates that the living room temperature of the multiple rooms 7 in the building 2 as a whole has reached a high degree relative to the target temperature, and strong air conditioning is not necessary. In this case, a small air volume may be determined from the multiple air volumes of the indoor unit fan 16c. Air conditioning operation by the air conditioner 11 is performed based on such an air volume, thereby improving energy conservation.

[0174] In the air conditioning method (air conditioning system 1) of this embodiment, even if the temperature difference ΔT of each room 7 is different, the set temperature of the air conditioner 11 is determined based on the average value (overall average value) of the scores S associated with the intermediate (averaged) temperature difference ΔT. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the air volume of the indoor unit fan 16c is determined based on the average value (overall average value) of the scores S. Then, the air conditioner 11 is operated based on these determined set temperatures and air volumes. As a result, in the air conditioning method (air conditioning system 1) of this embodiment, it is possible to improve the temperature controllability and comfort of the room 7, and energy conservation, compared to, for example, a conventional air conditioning method in which the air conditioner 11 is operated to match the room 7 with the lowest level of air conditioning reach.

[0175] In this embodiment, similar to the airflow notch of the fan 13, the set temperature of the air conditioner 11 and the airflow of the indoor unit fan 16c are determined based on the average value of the score S associated with the temperature difference ΔT. This makes it possible for the air conditioning method (air conditioning system 1) to adjust both the operation of the air conditioner 11 (including the indoor unit fan 16c) and the operation of the fan 13 depending on how well the room temperature has reached the target temperature. Therefore, the air conditioning method (air conditioning system 1) makes it possible to improve the temperature controllability and comfort of the room 7, as well as energy conservation.

[0176] In step S8, for example, if the average value (overall average value) of the scores associated with the temperature difference ΔT is small and operation of the air conditioner 11 is unnecessary, the operation of the air conditioner 11 may be stopped. This further improves energy conservation while suppressing unnecessary air conditioning of the room 7.

[0177] [Determine whether or not an instruction to stop air conditioning operation has been issued] Next, in the air conditioning method of this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 4, it is determined whether or not there is an instruction to end the air conditioning operation (step S9). In step S9 of this embodiment, a termination determination section 28m included in the program section 28 shown in Fig. 3 is loaded into the working memory 23. This termination determination section 28m is a program for determining whether or not there is an instruction to end the air conditioning operation. By executing this termination determination section 28m by the arithmetic device 21, the control device 15 can function as a means for determining whether or not there is an instruction to end the air conditioning operation.

[0178] The determination of whether or not there is an instruction to end the air conditioning operation is made based on, for example, instruction data input by a user (resident) or the like to the input device 24 (shown in Figures 1 and 3), or the occurrence of an abnormal termination of an interrupt process, etc.

[0179] In this embodiment, if it is determined that there is an instruction to end the air conditioning operation ("Yes" in step S9), step S10 is performed to end the air conditioning operation. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no instruction to end the air conditioning operation ("No" in step S9), steps S2 to S9 are performed again.

[0180] With the air conditioning method (air conditioning system 1) of this embodiment, more conditioned air Ac can be pressure-fed to a room 7 that requires strong air conditioning from the start to the end of air conditioning operation than when operating at the maximum air volume notch. This makes it possible for the air conditioning method (air conditioning system 1) of this embodiment to improve the temperature controllability and comfort of the room 7 even if it is used in an environment that is worse than expected due to the influence of ever-changing solar radiation, outside air, and heat generated from daily life.

[0181] [End air conditioning operation] Next, in the air conditioning method of this embodiment, if the determination in step S9 is affirmative, the air conditioning operation is terminated (step S10). In step S10 of this embodiment, an air conditioning termination section 28k included in the program section 28 shown in Fig. 3 is loaded into the working memory 23. This air conditioning termination section 28k is a program for terminating the air conditioning of the multiple rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d) shown in Fig. 1. Execution of this air conditioning termination section 28k by the arithmetic device 21 allows the control device 15 to function as a means for terminating the air conditioning operation.

[0182] In step S10 of this embodiment, the air conditioning termination unit 28k (control device 15) terminates the air conditioning operation (heating operation or cooling operation) by the air conditioner 11. This terminates the air conditioning for the multiple rooms 7 (in this example, the first room 7a to the fourth room 7d). Meanwhile, the operation of the fan 13 and the outside air supply fan 19 may be continued to maintain ventilation of the building 2. In this case, the air volume notch of the fan 13 and the air volume of the outside air supply fan 19 are appropriately set based on, for example, the number of ventilations required for the building 2.

[0183] Although a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiment and can be modified and carried out in various forms.

[0184] [Note] The present invention includes the following aspects.

[0185] [Invention 1] An air conditioning system for air conditioning at least one room provided in a building, comprising: An air conditioner, At least one duct for transporting conditioned air generated by the air conditioner to the living room; at least one fan for pumping the conditioned air through the duct to the living room; A room temperature sensor for measuring a room temperature, which is the temperature of the room; a control device for receiving a signal from the room temperature sensor and controlling the operation of the fan; The fan has a predetermined maximum rotation speed, The control device includes: a target temperature input unit to which a target temperature of the room is input; a room temperature acquisition unit for acquiring the room temperature from the room temperature sensor; a normal operation unit that operates the fan based on any one of a plurality of air volume notches in which different air volumes are set; a first determination unit that determines whether a difference between the room temperature and the target temperature is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold; a second determination unit that determines whether the fan is operating at a maximum airflow notch having the largest airflow among the plurality of airflow notches when the determination by the first determination unit is affirmative; a third determination unit that determines whether or not the rotation speed of the fan is lower than the maximum rotation speed when the determination by the second determination unit is affirmative; a fourth judgment unit that judges whether or not a stronger air conditioning action is required based on a change in a difference between the room temperature and the target temperature when the judgment by the third judgment unit is affirmative; and a rapid operation unit that further increases the rotation speed of the fan up to the maximum rotation speed when the determination of the fourth determination unit is positive. Building air conditioning system. [Invention 2] and a fifth determination unit that determines that the strong air conditioning action is no longer necessary when a difference between the room temperature and the target temperature becomes less than the threshold value after the rapid operation unit increases the rotation speed of the fan, The air conditioning system for a building as described in claim 1, wherein the normal operation unit operates the fan based on any one of the plurality of air volume notches when the judgment by the fifth judgment unit is positive. [Invention 3] A plurality of the rooms are provided in the building, The duct includes a plurality of ducts connected to each of the plurality of rooms, The fan includes a plurality of fans configured to pump the conditioned air to the plurality of rooms through the plurality of ducts, 3. The air conditioning system for a building according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the normal operation unit operates each of the plurality of fans based on one of the plurality of air volume notches. [Invention 4] The air conditioning system for a building described in Invention 3, wherein the normal operation unit operates the plurality of fans so that the total air volume of the plurality of fans is greater than the air volume of the conditioned air from the air conditioner. [Invention 5] The first determination unit identifies a fan that is operating at the maximum airflow notch among the plurality of fans, the second determination unit determines whether the rotation speed of the fan specified by the first determination unit is smaller than the maximum rotation speed; the third determination unit determines whether or not a stronger air conditioning effect is required for the room to which the conditioned air is pressurized and delivered from the fan identified by the first determination unit, based on a change in a difference between the room temperature and the target temperature; An air conditioning system for a building as described in Invention 3 or 4, wherein the rapid operation unit further increases the rotation speed of the fan identified by the first judgment unit up to the maximum rotation speed when the judgment of the second judgment unit and the judgment of the third judgment unit are both positive. [Invention 6] 1. A method for conditioning at least one occupant space in a building using an air conditioning system, comprising: The air conditioning system includes: An air conditioner, At least one duct for transporting conditioned air generated by the air conditioner to the living room; at least one fan for pumping the conditioned air through the duct to the living room; a room temperature sensor for measuring a room temperature, which is the temperature of the room; The fan has a predetermined maximum rotation speed, The method comprises: inputting a target temperature of the room; acquiring the room temperature from the room temperature sensor; a normal operation step of operating the fan based on any one of a plurality of air volume notches in which different air volumes are set; a first determination step of determining whether a difference between the room temperature and the target temperature is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold; a second determination step of determining whether the fan is operating at a maximum airflow notch among the plurality of airflow notches, the maximum airflow being the largest, when the determination at the first determination step is affirmative; a third determination step of determining whether or not the rotation speed of the fan is lower than the maximum rotation speed when the determination in the second determination step is affirmative; a fourth determination step of determining whether or not a stronger air conditioning action is required based on a change in the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature when the determination in the third determination step is affirmative; and a rapid operation step of further increasing the rotation speed of the fan up to the maximum rotation speed when the determination in the fourth determination step is affirmative. How buildings are air-conditioned. [Explanation of symbols]

[0186] 1. Air conditioning system 7 Room 11 Air conditioner 12 Duct 13 Fan 14 Room temperature sensor 15 Control device

Claims

1. An air conditioning system for air conditioning at least one room provided in a building, comprising: An air conditioner, At least one duct for transporting conditioned air generated by the air conditioner to the living room; at least one fan for pumping the conditioned air through the duct to the living room; A room temperature sensor for measuring a room temperature, which is the temperature of the room; a control device for receiving a signal from the room temperature sensor and controlling the operation of the fan; The fan has a predetermined maximum rotation speed, The control device includes: a target temperature input unit to which a target temperature of the room is input; a room temperature acquisition unit for acquiring the room temperature from the room temperature sensor; a normal operation unit that operates the fan based on any one of a plurality of air volume notches in which different air volumes are set; a first determination unit that determines whether a difference between the room temperature and the target temperature is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold; a second determination unit that determines whether the fan is operating at a maximum airflow notch having the largest airflow among the plurality of airflow notches when the determination by the first determination unit is affirmative; and a third determination unit that determines whether or not a rotation speed of the fan is lower than the maximum rotation speed when the determination by the second determination unit is affirmative; a fourth determination unit that determines whether or not a stronger air conditioning action is required based on a change in a difference between the room temperature and the target temperature when the determination by the third determination unit is affirmative; and a rapid operation unit that, when the determination by the fourth determination unit is positive, further increases the rotation speed of the fan within a range up to the maximum rotation speed.

2. Further comprising a fifth determination unit that determines that the strong air conditioning action is no longer necessary when a difference between the room temperature and the target temperature becomes less than the threshold value after the rapid operation unit increases the rotation speed of the fan, The air conditioning system for a building according to claim 1 , wherein the normal operation unit operates the fan based on any one of the plurality of air volume notches when the determination by the fifth determination unit is affirmative.

3. A plurality of the rooms are provided in the building, The duct includes a plurality of ducts connected to each of the plurality of rooms, The fan includes a plurality of fans configured to pump the conditioned air to the plurality of rooms through the plurality of ducts, The air conditioning system for a building according to claim 1 , wherein the normal operation unit operates each of the plurality of fans based on one of the plurality of air volume notches.

4. The air conditioning system for a building according to claim 3 , wherein the normal operation unit operates the plurality of fans so that a total air volume of the plurality of fans is greater than an air volume of the conditioned air from the air conditioner.

5. The first determination unit identifies a fan that is operating at the maximum airflow notch among the plurality of fans, the second determination unit determines whether or not the rotation speed of the fan specified by the first determination unit is smaller than the maximum rotation speed; the third determination unit determines whether or not a stronger air conditioning effect is required for the room to which the conditioned air is pressurized and delivered from the fan identified by the first determination unit, based on a change in a difference between the room temperature and the target temperature; 5. The building air conditioning system of claim 3, wherein the rapid operation unit further increases the rotation speed of the fan identified by the first judgment unit within a range up to the maximum rotation speed when the judgment of the second judgment unit and the judgment of the third judgment unit are both positive.

6. 1. A method for conditioning at least one occupant space in a building using an air conditioning system, comprising: The air conditioning system includes: An air conditioner, At least one duct for transporting conditioned air generated by the air conditioner to the living room; at least one fan for pumping the conditioned air through the duct to the living room; a room temperature sensor for measuring a room temperature, which is the temperature of the room; The fan has a predetermined maximum rotation speed, The method comprises: inputting a target temperature of the room; acquiring the room temperature from the room temperature sensor; a normal operation step of operating the fan based on any one of a plurality of air volume notches in which different air volumes are set; a first determination step of determining whether a difference between the room temperature and the target temperature is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold; a second determination step of determining whether the fan is operating at a maximum airflow notch among the plurality of airflow notches, the maximum airflow being the largest, when the determination at the first determination step is affirmative; a third determination step of determining whether or not the rotation speed of the fan is lower than the maximum rotation speed when the determination in the second determination step is affirmative; a fourth determination step of determining whether or not a stronger air conditioning action is required based on a change in the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature when the determination in the third determination step is affirmative; and a rapid operation step of further increasing the rotation speed of the fan up to the maximum rotation speed when the determination in the fourth determination step is affirmative. How buildings are air-conditioned.

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