Air conditioner

Abstract

The adjustment section (60) adjusts the apparent power of the power input terminal of the air conditioner (10). The control section (80) controls the adjustment section (60) on the basis of information corresponding to a target value of the apparent power given from the air conditioner (10) to the alternating-current power supply (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an active filter device connected to a power conversion device that receives power via a distribution panel. This active filter device includes a current source, a first detection unit, a second detection unit, and a controller. The output of the current source is connected to the power receiving path of the power conversion device, generating a first compensation current to reduce at least one of the high-order harmonic currents of the power conversion device and improve the fundamental power factor. The first detection unit detects the current flowing in the power receiving path of the power conversion device. The second detection unit detects the current flowing in the power receiving path of the distribution panel. The controller calculates the first compensation current based on the detection value detected by the first detection unit, calculates a second compensation current based on the detection value detected by the second detection unit to reduce at least one of the high-order harmonic currents in the power receiving path of the distribution panel and improve the fundamental power factor, and generates a current in the current source that is the sum of the second compensation current and the first compensation current.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6299831 Summary of the Invention

[0006] -The technical problem the invention aims to solve-

[0007] In the device described in Patent Document 1, a second detection unit that detects the current supplied from the AC power supply is located on the power supply side of the distribution panel (specifically, between the AC power supply and the distribution panel), while the controller is located inside the air conditioner. Therefore, the distance from the second detection unit to the controller is increased. Consequently, it is difficult to reduce costs, including the cost of wiring between the second detection unit and the controller, and the cost of manufacturing the second detection unit (e.g., initial costs).

[0008] - Technical solutions for solving technical problems -

[0009] A first aspect of this disclosure relates to an air conditioner 10 connected to an AC power source 2. The air conditioner 10 includes an adjustment unit 60 and a control unit 80, the adjustment unit 60 adjusting the apparent power at the power input terminal of the air conditioner 10; the control unit 80 controlling the adjustment unit 60 based on information corresponding to a target value of the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power source 2.

[0010] In the first aspect, it is not necessary to install current sensors on the power supply side of the distribution panel 3 to detect the currents Ir0, Is0, and It0 supplied from the AC power supply 2. Therefore, compared with the case where such current sensors are installed, the costs of wiring, manufacturing current sensors, and other expenses can be reduced.

[0011] The second aspect of this disclosure, based on the first aspect, is characterized in that: the adjustment unit 60 includes at least one of an active filter 61, a combination of a leading capacitor 62a and a capacitor switching mechanism 62b, and a combination of a lagging reactor 63a and a reactor switching mechanism 63b. The active filter 61 is connected to the AC power supply 2, and the capacitor switching mechanism 62b switches the connection state of the leading capacitor 62a and the AC power supply 2; the reactor switching mechanism 63b switches the connection state of the lagging reactor 63a and the AC power supply 2.

[0012] The third aspect of this disclosure, based on the first or second aspect, is characterized in that: the information corresponding to the target value of the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power supply 2 is information about the operating status of the device 20 connected to the AC power supply 2 together with the air conditioner 10, or an apparent power command indicating the target value of the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power supply 2.

[0013] The fourth aspect of this disclosure, based on the first or second aspect, is characterized in that: the information corresponding to the target value of the apparent power supplied to the AC power supply 2 from the air conditioner 10 is information about the operating status of the device 20 connected to the AC power supply 2 together with the air conditioner 10; the information about the operating status of the device 20 connected to the AC power supply 2 together with the air conditioner 10 is input to the input unit 30; and the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on the information input to the input unit 30.

[0014] In the fourth aspect, by controlling the adjustment unit 60 based on information about the operating status of the device 20 connected to the AC power supply 2 along with the air conditioner 10, the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power supply 2 can be controlled so that the power factor of the AC power supply 2 is close to the target power factor.

[0015] The fifth aspect of this disclosure, based on the fourth aspect, is characterized in that: the input unit 30 includes a status detection unit 31, which detects the operating status of the device 20 connected to the AC power supply 2 together with the air conditioner 10, and the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on the detection result of the status detection unit 31.

[0016] In the fifth aspect, by controlling the adjustment unit 60 based on the detection results of the state detection unit 31, the apparent power supplied to the AC power supply 2 from the air conditioner 10 can be controlled so that the power factor of the AC power supply 2 is close to the target power factor.

[0017] The sixth aspect of this disclosure, based on the fourth aspect, is characterized in that: the input unit 30 includes a setting unit 32, wherein at least one of the type of device 20 connected to the AC power supply 2 together with the air conditioner 10 and the presence or absence of the device 20 is set by the setting unit 32, and the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on the setting of the setting unit 32.

[0018] In the sixth aspect, by controlling the adjustment unit 60 based on the settings of the setting unit 32, the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power supply 2 can be controlled so that the power factor of the AC power supply 2 is close to the target power factor.

[0019] The seventh aspect of this disclosure is based on any one of the first to sixth aspects, characterized in that: the control unit 80 also controls the adjustment unit 60 based on information corresponding to a target value of the apparent power supplied to the AC power supply 2 from the air conditioner 10 during the shutdown period.

[0020] In the seventh aspect, the adjustment unit 60 can also be controlled during the period when the air conditioner 10 is stopped. In this way, during the period when the air conditioner 10 is stopped, the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power supply 2 can be controlled so that the power factor of the AC power supply 2 is close to the target power factor.

[0021] The eighth aspect of this disclosure, based on the seventh aspect, is characterized in that: the adjustment unit 60 includes an active filter 61 connected to the AC power supply 2, and the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 operating during the shutdown period of the air conditioner 10 is lower than the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 operating during the operation period of the air conditioner 10.

[0022] In the eighth aspect, by making the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 that operates during the off period of the air conditioner 10 lower than the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 that operates during the operation period of the air conditioner 10, the temperature rise of the active filter 61 that operates during the off period of the air conditioner 10 can be reduced.

[0023] The ninth aspect of this disclosure, based on the seventh aspect, is characterized in that: the air conditioner includes a cooler 65, the adjustment unit 60 includes an active filter 61 connected to the AC power supply 2, the cooler 65 cools the active filter 61, and when the active filter 61 is working during the shutdown period of the air conditioner 10, the control unit 80 enables the cooler 65 to work.

[0024] In the ninth aspect, when the active filter 61 operates during the shutdown period of the air conditioner 10, the cooler 65 can be forced to operate, thereby reducing the temperature rise of the active filter 61 operating during the shutdown period of the air conditioner 10.

[0025] The tenth aspect of this disclosure is based on any one of the first to ninth aspects, characterized in that: the adjustment unit 60 includes an active filter 61 connected to the AC power supply 2, and the control unit 80 changes the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 according to the temperature of the components constituting the active filter 61.

[0026] In the tenth aspect, by changing the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 according to the temperature of the components constituting the active filter 61, the temperature rise of the active filter 61 can be reduced.

[0027] The eleventh aspect of this disclosure, based on the tenth aspect, is characterized in that: the active filter 61 includes a reactor 61b and a switching element 61c, and the control unit 80 changes the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 according to the respective temperatures of the reactor 61b and the switching element 61c included in the active filter 61.

[0028] In the eleventh aspect, by changing the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 according to the temperature of the reactor 61b and the switching element 61c included in the active filter 61, the temperature rise of the active filter 61 can be mitigated.

[0029] The twelfth aspect of this disclosure is based on any one of the first to eleventh aspects, characterized in that: the adjustment unit 60 includes an active filter 61 connected to the AC power supply 2, the active filter 61 being made of a wide bandgap semiconductor.

[0030] In the twelfth aspect, by using a wide-bandgap semiconductor to fabricate the active filter 61, the power consumption of the active filter 61 can be reduced. This, in turn, can mitigate the temperature rise of the active filter 61.

[0031] The thirteenth aspect of this disclosure is based on any one of the first to twelfth aspects, characterized in that: the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 so that the adjustment unit 60 operates continuously for a period of more than 14 hours, including the period during which power factor discount is implemented.

[0032] In the thirteenth aspect, by controlling the adjustment unit 60 so that the adjustment unit 60 can operate continuously for a period of 14 hours or more, including the period during which power factor discount is implemented, the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power supply 2 can also be controlled during periods when power factor discount is not implemented, so that the power factor of the AC power supply 2 is close to the target power factor. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the system according to the first embodiment.

[0034] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the construction of an example active filter;

[0035] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of an example control unit;

[0036] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the system according to the second embodiment of the example;

[0037] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the system according to the third embodiment of the example;

[0038] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the system according to the fourth embodiment of the example;

[0039] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an example phase-advancing capacitor and a switching mechanism;

[0040] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an example hysteresis reactor and switching mechanism;

[0041] Figure 9 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of a modified example of the control unit. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The embodiments are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the same or corresponding parts in the drawings are labeled with the same symbols, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0043] (First Implementation)

[0044] Figure 1 The configuration of system 1 according to the first embodiment is illustrated. System 1 is a system that receives power supplied from AC power source 2. In this example, AC power source 2 is a three-phase AC power source having an R phase, an S phase, and a T phase. In addition, system 1 includes an air conditioner 10, a switchboard 3, a load cell 20, and a status detection unit 31. For example, system 1 is installed in buildings such as factories, buildings, apartments, and detached houses (figures omitted).

[0045] [Distribution panel]

[0046] The distribution panel 3 is connected to the AC power supply 2 and multiple devices installed in system 1 (air conditioner 10 and load 20 in this example). Furthermore, the distribution panel 3 receives power from the AC power supply 2 and supplies that power to the multiple devices installed in system 1. Specifically, the distribution panel 3 is equipped with multiple circuit breakers (not shown), and power from the AC power supply 2 is supplied to the multiple devices connected to the distribution panel 3 via these circuit breakers. In this example, among the multiple circuit breakers installed in the distribution panel 3, one circuit breaker is connected to the air conditioner 10, and another circuit breaker is connected to the load 20.

[0047] [Loader]

[0048] Load unit 20 is a device connected to AC power supply 2 along with air conditioner 10. In this example, load unit 20 is electrically connected to AC power supply 2 via distribution panel 3 and operates by receiving power supplied from AC power supply 2 via distribution panel 3. It should be noted that examples of load unit 20 include elevators, escalators, fans, pumps, ventilation systems, lighting fixtures driven by three-phase AC power, and other air conditioners besides air conditioner 10 (e.g., air conditioners without the adjustment device 50 described later).

[0049] Status detection unit (input unit)

[0050] The status detection unit 31 detects the operating status of the load unit 20 (a device connected to the AC power supply 2 along with the air conditioner 10). The detection result of the status detection unit 31 is sent to the control unit 80, which will be described later. The status detection unit 31 is an example of an input unit 30 into which information about the operating status of the load unit 20 is input. It should be noted that the information about the operating status of the load unit 20 is an example of information corresponding to the target value (hereinafter referred to as "target apparent power") of the apparent power supplied to the AC power supply 2 from the air conditioner 10. This information will be described in detail later.

[0051] In this example, the status detection unit 31 detects the operating status of the load cell 20 and outputs a detection signal S1 indicating the detection result. The status detection unit 31 is located outside the air conditioner 10.

[0052] [Air conditioner]

[0053] Air conditioner 10 regulates the air in a target space (e.g., an indoor space) within a building. Air conditioner 10 is connected to AC power supply 2. In this example, air conditioner 10 is electrically connected to AC power supply 2 via distribution panel 3, and operates by receiving power supplied from AC power supply 2 via distribution panel 3. Specifically, air conditioner 10 includes a refrigerant circuit (not shown), a power conversion device 40, and a regulating device 50.

[0054] <Refrigerant Circuit>

[0055] A refrigerant circuit includes a compressor that compresses the refrigerant, a heat exchanger that allows the refrigerant to exchange heat with the air, and other components that circulate the refrigerant to perform a refrigeration cycle. The compressor contains an electric motor that operates the compression mechanism. When power is supplied to the motor, it operates; when the motor operates, the compressor operates, and the refrigerant circuit begins its refrigeration cycle. This enables air conditioning.

[0056] <Power Conversion Device>

[0057] The power conversion device 40 is connected to the AC power source 2. In this example, the power conversion device 40 is connected to the distribution panel 3 via a power receiving path P40. For example, the power receiving path P40 is made of cable. By adopting this configuration, the power conversion device 40 is electrically connected to the AC power source 2 via the power receiving path P40 and the distribution panel 3, and operates by receiving power from the AC power source 2 via the distribution panel 3 and the power receiving path P40. Specifically, the power conversion device 40 converts the power supplied from the AC power source 2 into output power with the desired voltage and frequency, and supplies this output power to the motor installed in the compressor in the refrigerant circuit. For example, the power conversion device 40 includes a rectifier that converts AC power to DC power, an inverter that converts DC power to AC power through switching operation, etc.

[0058] <Adjustment device>

[0059] The adjusting device 50 adjusts the apparent power at the power input terminal of the air conditioner 10. This allows adjustment of the apparent power supplied to the AC power supply 2 from the air conditioner 10, thereby adjusting the power factor (hereinafter referred to as "power factor") of the AC power supply 2. In this example, the adjusting device 50 is assembled in the air conditioner 10. Furthermore, the adjusting device 50 is in an operating state when the air conditioner 10 is in an operating state; and in a stopped state when the air conditioner 10 is in a stopped state. In this example, the adjusting device 50 includes an adjusting unit 60, a cooler 65, a first current detector 71, a second current detector 72, a voltage detector 73, and a control unit 80.

[0060] (Adjustment Department)

[0061] The adjustment unit 60 adjusts the apparent power at the power input terminal of the air conditioner 10. In this example, the adjustment unit 60 is connected to the middle part of the power receiving path P40, which is an example of the power input terminal of the air conditioner 10, and adjusts the apparent power of the power receiving path P40.

[0062] In this example, adjustment part 60 is Figure 2The active filter 61 is shown. The active filter 61 is connected to the AC power supply 2. Specifically, the active filter 61 is connected to the power receiving path P40, and is electrically connected to the AC power supply 2 via the power receiving path P40 and the distribution panel 3.

[0063] It should be noted that in this example, the active filter 61 improves the power factor of the power supply. Specifically, the active filter 61 improves the power factor by supplying a compensating current to the power receiving path P40 to compensate for the ineffective components of the AC power supply 2.

[0064] In this example, the active filter 61 not only improves the power factor of the power supply, but also reduces the high-order harmonic currents contained in the currents Ir0, Is0, and It0 of the AC power supply 2. Specifically, the active filter 61 can compensate for the ineffective components of the AC power supply 2 and supply the receiving path P40 with the reverse current, i.e., the compensation current, of the high-order harmonic currents contained in the currents Ir0, Is0, and It0 of the AC power supply 2, so that the waveforms of the currents Ir0, Is0, and It0 of the AC power supply 2 are close to sine waves.

[0065] like Figure 2 As shown, the active filter 61 includes a low-pass filter 61a, an inductor 61b, a switching element 61c, and an electrolytic capacitor 61d. The switching element 61c is controlled by the control unit 80.

[0066] (Cooler)

[0067] Cooler 65 cools active filter 61. Cooler 65 switches between an operating state that cools active filter 61 and a stopped state that does not cool active filter 61. Furthermore, the operation of cooler 65 is controlled by control unit 80. In this example, cooler 65 is in a driven state during the operation of air conditioner 10 and in a stopped state during the shutdown of air conditioner 10. For example, cooler 65 is a fan that can be switched between operating and stopping by control unit 80. This fan can be a dedicated fan specifically for cooling active filter 61, or it can be a delivery fan that supplies air to other components that are not active filter 61 (e.g., heat exchangers in the refrigerant circuit). For example, active filter 61 can also be positioned in the delivery path of the air generated by the delivery fan.

[0068] (First current detector)

[0069] The first current detector 71 detects the currents Ir1, Is1, and It1 input to the air conditioner 10. In this example, the first current detector 71 has a first current sensor 71r and a second current sensor 71t. The first current sensor 71r and the second current sensor 71t detect the R-phase current Ir1 and the T-phase current It1 of the three-phase currents Ir1, Is1, and It1 input to the air conditioner 10, respectively. The detection result of the first current detector 71 is sent to the control unit 80. For example, the first current detector 71 can be a current transformer.

[0070] (Second current detector)

[0071] The second current detector 72 detects the currents Ir1a, Is1a, and It1a input to the adjustment device 50. In this example, the second current detector 72 has a third current sensor 72r and a fourth current sensor 72t. The third current sensor 72r and the fourth current sensor 72t detect the R-phase current Ir1a and the T-phase current It1a of the three-phase currents Ir1a, Is1a, and It1a input to the adjustment device 50, respectively. The detection result of the second current detector 72 is sent to the control unit 80. For example, the second current detector 72 can be a current transformer.

[0072] (Voltage detector)

[0073] Voltage detector 73 detects the voltage of AC power supply 2, i.e., the power supply voltage Vrs. The detection result of voltage detector 73 is sent to control unit 80.

[0074] (Control Department)

[0075] The control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on information corresponding to the target apparent power. Specifically, the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 so that the power factor becomes a predetermined target power factor (e.g., 1). For example, the control unit 80 consists of a processor and a memory, the memory storing programs and data for operating the processor.

[0076] [The relationship between the operating state of the load and the power factor]

[0077] Here, the relationship between the operating state of the load 20 and the power factor is explained. For each operating state of the load 20, the waveforms of the currents Ir2, Is2, and It2 input to the load 20 are generally determined. Therefore, the waveforms of the currents Ir2, Is2, and It2 input to the load 20 can be inferred from the operating state of the load 20. Furthermore, the change in the power factor caused by the operation of the load 20 can be inferred from the waveforms of the currents Ir2, Is2, and It2 input to the load 20.

[0078] The sum of the currents Ir1, Is1, It1 input to the air conditioner 10 and the currents Ir2, Is2, It2 input to the load 20 is equivalent to the currents Ir0, Is0, It0 supplied from the AC power supply 2. Furthermore, the sum of the changes in the power factor caused by the operation of the air conditioner 10 and the changes in the power factor caused by the operation of the load 20 is equivalent to the changes in the power factor of the AC power supply 2.

[0079] [Details of the Control Department]

[0080] In this example, the control unit 80 determines the target apparent power based on the change in the power factor caused by the operation of the load unit 20, so as to bring the power factor to the target power factor. For example, if the target power factor is "1" and the change in the power factor caused by the operation of the load unit 20 is "-0.3 (lagging power factor)," the target apparent power is determined so that the change in the power factor caused by the operation of the air conditioner 10 reaches "+0.3 (leading power factor)." Furthermore, the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 to ensure that the apparent power supplied to the AC power supply 2 from the air conditioner 10 reaches the target apparent power. In this way, by controlling the apparent power supplied to the AC power supply 2 from the air conditioner 10, the change in the power factor caused by the operation of the air conditioner 10 can be controlled, thereby bringing the power factor closer to the target power factor.

[0081] Specifically, in this example, the control unit 80 infers the currents Ir2, Is2, and It2 input to the load unit 20 based on the operating state of the load unit 20, and determines the target values ​​(hereinafter referred to as "target compensation currents") of the currents Ir1a, Is1a, and It1a input to the adjustment device 50 based on the inferred values ​​of the currents Ir2, Is2, and It2 input to the load unit 20, so as to achieve the target power factor. It should be noted that the target compensation current is an example of the target apparent power. Moreover, the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 so that the currents Ir1a, Is1a, and It1a input to the adjustment device 50 become the target compensation currents. In this way, by controlling the currents Ir1a, Is1a, and It1a input to the adjustment device 50, the apparent power supplied to the AC power supply 2 from the air conditioner 10 can be controlled.

[0082] It should be noted that in this example, the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on the detection results of the status detection unit 31. The status detection unit 31 is an example of an input unit 30 that receives information about the operating status of the load cell 20. The information about the operating status of the load cell 20 is information used to derive the target apparent power, and is an example of information corresponding to the target apparent power. The control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on the information (information about the operating status of the load cell 20) input to the input unit 30.

[0083] In this example, when the air conditioner 10 is in the working state, the control unit 80 is in the working state; when the air conditioner 10 is in the stopped state, the control unit 80 is in the stopped state.

[0084] [The structure of the control department]

[0085] like Figure 3 As shown, the control unit 80 includes a phase detection unit 81, a load current inference unit 82, a first current calculation unit 83, a second current calculation unit 84, a subtraction calculation unit 85, a current command calculation unit 86, and a gate pulse generator 87.

[0086] The phase detection unit 81 takes into account the power supply voltage Vrs detected by the voltage detector 73 and detects the phase of the power supply voltage Vrs.

[0087] The load current inference unit 82 infers the currents Ir2, Is2, and It2 of the input load device 20 based on the detection results of the state detection unit 31 and the phase of the power supply voltage Vrs detected by the phase detection unit 81, and outputs the inferred current as the load current iL. Specifically, the load current inference unit 82 has table data that establishes a correspondence between the operating state of the load device 20 and the waveforms of the currents Ir2, Is2, and It2 of the input load device 20. Moreover, the load current inference unit 82 detects the waveforms of the currents Ir2, Is2, and It2 of the input load device 20 that correspond to the operating state of the load device 20 represented by the detection signal S1 output from the state detection unit 31. From the multiple current values ​​constituting the detected waveforms of the currents Ir2, Is2, and It2 of the input load device 20, the load current inference unit 82 detects the current value corresponding to the phase of the power supply voltage Vrs detected by the phase detection unit 81, and outputs the detected current value as the load current iL.

[0088] The first current calculation unit 83 generates a first current command value i1 based on the currents Ir1, Is1, It1 (in this example, currents Ir1 and It1) detected by the first current detector 71 and input to the air conditioner 10, the phase of the power supply voltage Vrs detected by the phase detection unit 81, and the currents Ir1a, Is1a, It1a input to the load device 20 inferred by the load current inference unit 82. The first current command value i1 is a value corresponding to the change in the power factor of the power supply caused by the operation of the air conditioner 10 and the load device 20. In this example, the first current calculation unit 83 synthesizes the output of the first current detector 71 and the output of the load current inference unit 82, extracts the fundamental and higher harmonic current components from the synthesized current obtained by the synthesis, and outputs the extracted components as the first current command value i1.

[0089] The second current calculation unit 84 generates a second current command value i2 based on the currents Ir1a, Is1a, It1a (in this example, Ir1a and It1a) detected by the second current detector 72 and input to the adjustment device 50, and the phase of the power supply voltage Vrs detected by the phase detection unit 81. The second current command value i2 is a value corresponding to the amount of change in the power factor caused by the operation of the adjustment device 50. In this example, the second current calculation unit 84 extracts the fundamental and higher harmonic components from the output of the second current detector 72 and outputs the extracted components as the second current command value i2.

[0090] The subtraction operation unit 85 subtracts the second current command value i2 generated by the second current operation unit 84 from the first current command value i1 generated by the first current operation unit 83. The current command operation unit 86 generates a target command value Iref based on the output of the subtraction operation unit 85 (the command value obtained by subtracting the second current command value i2 from the first current command value i1). The target command value Iref is equivalent to the target compensation current (the target value of the currents Ir1a, Is1a, and It1a input to the adjustment device 50). Specifically, the current command operation unit 86 generates the target command value Iref, which represents the inverse current output by the subtraction operation unit 85.

[0091] The gate pulse generator 87 generates a switching command value G based on the target command value Iref generated by the current command calculation unit 86 and the second current command value i2 generated by the second current calculation unit 84. The switching command value G is a command value used to control the operation of the adjustment unit 60. Specifically, the gate pulse generator 87 generates the switching command value G according to the deviation between the second current command value i2 and the target command value Iref, so that the second current command value i2 becomes the target command value Iref.

[0092] [Explanation of comparative examples]

[0093] Next, the apparatus of Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent No. 6299831), a comparative example of this disclosure, will be described. In the apparatus of Patent Document 1, the second detection unit is disposed between the AC power supply and the distribution panel, and the controller is disposed inside the air conditioner, thus increasing the distance from the second detection unit to the controller. As a result, the wiring between the second detection unit and the controller must be lengthened, making it difficult to reduce the cost (e.g., engineering costs) required for the wiring between the second detection unit and the controller. Furthermore, the current capacity of the second detection unit must be increased, making it difficult to reduce the cost required to manufacture the second detection unit. Thus, it is difficult to reduce the initial costs, including the cost of wiring between the second detection unit and the controller, and the cost of manufacturing the second detection unit.

[0094] [Features of the first embodiment (1)]

[0095] As described above, the air conditioner 10 of the first embodiment is an air conditioner 10 connected to the AC power supply 2, including an adjustment unit 60 and a control unit 80. The adjustment unit 60 adjusts the apparent power at the power input terminal of the air conditioner 10; the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on information corresponding to a target value of the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power supply 2.

[0096] In the first embodiment, it is not necessary to install a current sensor on the power supply side of the distribution panel 3. Therefore, compared with the case where such a current sensor is installed, it is possible to reduce the cost of wiring, the cost of manufacturing the current sensor, and other costs (e.g., initial costs).

[0097] [Features of the first embodiment (2)]

[0098] In the air conditioner 10 of the first embodiment, the information corresponding to the target value of the apparent power supplied to the AC power supply 2 from the air conditioner 10 is information about the operating status of the device 20 connected to the AC power supply 2 along with the air conditioner 10. This information about the operating status of the device 20 connected to the AC power supply 2 along with the air conditioner 10 is input to the input unit 30. The control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on the information input to the input unit 30.

[0099] In the first embodiment, by controlling the adjustment unit 60 based on information about the operating status of the device 20 connected to the AC power supply 2 together with the air conditioner 10, the apparent power supplied to the AC power supply 2 from the air conditioner 10 can be controlled so that the power factor of the AC power supply 2 is close to the target power factor (e.g., 1).

[0100] [Features of the first embodiment (3)]

[0101] Furthermore, in the air conditioner 10 of the first embodiment, the input unit 30 includes a status detection unit 31, which detects the operating status of the device 20 connected to the AC power supply 2 together with the air conditioner 10. The control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on the detection results of the status detection unit 31.

[0102] In the first embodiment, by controlling the adjustment unit 60 based on the detection result of the state detection unit 31, the apparent power supplied to the AC power supply 2 from the air conditioner 10 can be controlled so that the power factor of the AC power supply 2 is close to the target power factor (e.g., 1).

[0103] (Second Implementation)

[0104] Figure 4 The configuration of system 1 according to the second embodiment is illustrated. The operation of the state detection unit 31 and the control unit 80 of system 1 according to the second embodiment is different from that of system 1 according to the first embodiment. All other configurations of system 1 according to the second embodiment are the same as those of system 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0105] [Status Monitoring Department]

[0106] In the second embodiment, the status detection unit 31 detects the operating status of the load cell 20 and the air conditioner 10. In other words, the status detection unit 31 in the second embodiment is an example of an input unit 30 that receives information about the operating status of the load cell 20 and the air conditioner 10. For example, the status detection unit 31 is a central monitoring device installed in the central monitoring room of a building. This central monitoring device manages the operating status of multiple devices installed in the building.

[0107] In this example, the status detection unit 31 detects the operating status of the load cell 20 and the air conditioner 10, and outputs a detection signal S1 indicating the detection result. The status detection unit 31 is located outside the air conditioner 10.

[0108] [Control Department]

[0109] Similar to the first embodiment, in the second embodiment, the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on information corresponding to the target apparent power (the target value of the apparent power supplied to the AC power source 2 from the air conditioner 10). Specifically, the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 so that the power factor (the power factor of the AC power source 2) becomes the target power factor (e.g., 1).

[0110] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the control unit 80 is configured to operate not only when the air conditioner 10 is in an operating state, but also when the air conditioner 10 is in a stopped state. In this example, the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on information corresponding to the target apparent power during the period when the air conditioner 10 is stopped. Specifically, the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on the detection result of the status detection unit 31 during the period when the air conditioner 10 is stopped.

[0111] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, when both the air conditioner 10 and the load 20 are operating, the control unit 80 determines the target apparent power based on the change in the power factor caused by the operation of the air conditioner 10 and the load 20. Additionally, when the air conditioner 10 is operating and the load 20 is stopped, the control unit 80 determines the target apparent power based on the change in the power factor caused by the operation of the air conditioner 10. Moreover, when the load 20 is operating and the air conditioner 10 is stopped, the control unit 80 determines the target apparent power based on the change in the power factor caused by the operation of the load 20.

[0112] [Features of the second embodiment (1)]

[0113] As described above, the air conditioner 10 of the second embodiment can achieve the same effect as the air conditioner 10 of the first embodiment. For example, it is not necessary to install a current sensor on the power supply side of the distribution panel 3, so compared with the case where such a current sensor is installed, the cost of wiring, the cost of manufacturing the current sensor, and other costs (e.g., initial costs) can be reduced.

[0114] [Features of the second embodiment (2)]

[0115] In addition, in the air conditioner 10 of the second embodiment, the control unit 80 also controls the adjustment unit 60 based on information corresponding to the target value of the apparent power supplied from the AC power supply 2 to the air conditioner 10 during the period when the air conditioner 10 is stopped.

[0116] In the second embodiment, the adjustment unit 60 can also be controlled during the period when the air conditioner 10 is stopped. Therefore, during the period when the air conditioner 10 is stopped, the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power supply 2 can also be controlled so that the power factor of the AC power supply 2 is close to the target power factor (e.g., 1).

[0117] (Third Implementation)

[0118] Figure 5 Example of the configuration of system 1 according to the third embodiment. System 1 of this third embodiment includes a setting unit 32 instead of... Figure 1The status detection unit 31 is shown. Furthermore, the operation of the control unit 80 in the third embodiment of system 1 differs from that in the first embodiment of system 1. All other configurations of the third embodiment of system 1 are the same as those of the first embodiment of system 1.

[0119] [Settings Department]

[0120] At least one of the type of load cell 20 and the presence or absence of load cell 20 is set in the setting unit 32. Specifically, the setting unit 32 has multiple switches, and the type of load cell 20 and the presence or absence of load cell 20 are set by turning these multiple switches on / off. For example, different types of load cell 20 are respectively associated with the multiple switches of the setting unit 32. Moreover, when one of the multiple switches of the setting unit 32 is changed from an on state to an off state, the setting unit 32 sets the case where the type of load cell 20 assigned to that switch is installed in system 1. On the other hand, when one of the multiple switches of the setting unit 32 is changed from an off state to an on state, the setting unit 32 sets the case where the type of load cell 20 assigned to that switch is not installed in system 1. For example, the setting unit 32 is a dual in-line package switch.

[0121] In this example, at least one of the type of load cell 20 and the presence or absence of load cell 20 is set in the setting unit 32, and a setting signal S2 indicating the setting status of the setting unit 32 is output from the setting unit 32. The setting unit 32 is provided in the adjustment device 50. In other words, the setting unit 32 is assembled in the air conditioner 10.

[0122] [Control Department]

[0123] Similar to the first embodiment, in the third embodiment, the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on information corresponding to the target apparent power (the target value of the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power supply 2). Specifically, the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 so that the power factor (the power factor of the AC power supply 2) becomes the target power factor (e.g., 1).

[0124] [The relationship between the type and presence of load devices and the power factor]

[0125] Here, the relationship between the type of load 20, the presence or absence of load 20, and the power factor is explained. For a specific load 20 (e.g., an elevator), the operating time of the load 20 and the waveforms of the input currents Ir2, Is2, and It2 are generally determined. Therefore, the waveforms of the input currents Ir2, Is2, and It2 of the load 20 can be inferred from at least one of the type of load 20 installed in system 1 and the presence or absence of load 20. Furthermore, the variation in the power factor caused by the operation of load 20 can be inferred from the waveforms of the input currents Ir2, Is2, and It2. Moreover, the sum of the variation in the power factor caused by the operation of air conditioner 10 and the variation in the power factor caused by the operation of load 20 corresponds to the variation in the power factor of AC power supply 2.

[0126] [Details of the Control Department]

[0127] Similar to the first embodiment, in the third embodiment, the control unit 80 determines the target apparent power based on the change in the power factor caused by the operation of the load unit 20, so that the power factor becomes the target power factor. Furthermore, the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 so that the apparent power supplied to the AC power supply 2 from the air conditioner 10 becomes the target apparent power.

[0128] Specifically, in the third embodiment, the control unit 80 infers the currents Ir2, Is2, and It2 input to the load 20 based on at least one of the type of load 20 installed in the system 1 and the presence or absence of the load 20. To achieve a target power factor, the control unit 80 determines the target compensation current (the target value of the currents Ir1a, Is1a, and It1a input to the adjustment device 50) based on the inferred values ​​of the currents Ir2, Is2, and It2 input to the load 20, so that the power factor becomes the target power factor. Furthermore, the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 to make the currents Ir1a, Is1a, and It1a input to the adjustment device 50 become the target compensation current.

[0129] It should be noted that in the third embodiment, the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on the setting unit 32. The setting unit 32 is an example of an input unit 30 that receives information about the operating state of the input load 20, and this information about the operating state of the load 20 is an example of information corresponding to the target apparent power. The control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on the information (information about the operating state of the load 20) input to the input unit 30.

[0130] Specifically, in the third embodiment, the load current estimation unit 82 of the control unit 80 estimates the currents Ir2, Is2, and It2 of the input load device 20 based on the settings of the setting unit 32 and the phase of the power supply voltage Vrs detected by the phase detection unit 81, and outputs the estimated currents as the load current iL. Specifically, the load current estimation unit 82 has table data that establishes a correspondence between the settings of the setting unit 32 (at least one of the type of load device 20 and the presence or absence of the load device 20) and the waveforms of the currents Ir2, Is2, and It2 of the input load device 20. Furthermore, the load current inference unit 82 detects the waveforms of the currents Ir2, Is2, It2 that correspond to the settings of the setting unit 32 represented by the setting signal S2 output from the setting unit 32 and are input to the load unit 20 from the table data. From the multiple current values ​​constituting the detected waveforms of the currents Ir2, Is2, It2 input to the load unit 20, it detects the current value that corresponds to the phase of the power supply voltage Vrs detected by the phase detection unit 81 and outputs the detected current value as the load current iL.

[0131] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the control unit 80 is configured to operate not only during the operation of the air conditioner 10 but also during the shutdown period of the air conditioner 10. Specifically, the control unit 80 also controls the setting adjustment unit 60 based on the setting unit 32 during the shutdown period of the air conditioner 10.

[0132] [Features of the third embodiment (1)]

[0133] As described above, the air conditioner 10 of the third embodiment can achieve the same effects as the air conditioner 10 of the first embodiment. For example, it is not necessary to install a current sensor on the power supply side of the distribution panel 3, so compared with the case where such a current sensor is installed, the cost of wiring, the cost of manufacturing the current sensor, and other costs (e.g., initial costs) can be reduced.

[0134] [Features of the third embodiment (2)]

[0135] In the air conditioner 10 of the third embodiment, the information corresponding to the target value of the apparent power supplied to the AC power source 2 from the air conditioner 10 is information about the operating status of the device 20 connected to the AC power source 2 along with the air conditioner 10. This information about the operating status of the device 20 connected to the AC power source 2 along with the air conditioner 10 is input to the input unit 30. The input unit 30 includes a setting unit 32, where at least one of the type of device 20 connected to the AC power source 2 along with the air conditioner 10 and the presence or absence of the device 20 is set. The control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 based on the settings of the setting unit 32.

[0136] In the third embodiment, by controlling the adjustment unit 60 based on the settings of the setting unit 32, the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power supply 2 can be controlled so that the power factor of the AC power supply 2 is close to the target power factor (e.g., 1).

[0137] (Fourth Implementation)

[0138] Figure 6 The configuration of System 1 according to the fourth embodiment is illustrated. System 1 of this fourth embodiment includes a distribution panel 3, multiple (two in this example) air conditioners 10, a load cell 20, and a setting unit 32. The configuration of the distribution panel 3, load cell 20, and setting unit 32 in the fourth embodiment is the same as that in the third embodiment. The configuration of each of the multiple air conditioners 10 in the fourth embodiment is the same as that in the third embodiment. It should be noted that in the fourth embodiment, the setting unit 32 is shared by the multiple air conditioners 10. Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, the setting unit 32 is located outside the adjustment device 50. In other words, the setting unit 32 is located outside the air conditioners 10.

[0139] [Features of the fourth embodiment (1)]

[0140] As described above, the air conditioner 10 of the fourth embodiment can achieve the same effect as the air conditioner 10 of the third embodiment. For example, it is not necessary to install a current sensor on the power supply side of the distribution panel 3, so compared with the case where such a current sensor is installed, the cost of wiring, the cost of manufacturing the current sensor, and other costs (e.g., initial costs) can be reduced.

[0141] [Features of the fourth embodiment (2)]

[0142] In addition, in System 1 of the fourth embodiment, the setting unit 32 is shared by multiple air conditioners 10.

[0143] In the fourth embodiment, it is possible to set each of the multiple air conditioners 10 at the same time (set at least one of the type of device 20 connected to the AC power supply 2 together with the air conditioner 10 and the presence or absence of the device 20). Therefore, compared with the case where each of the multiple air conditioners 10 is provided with a setting unit 32, it is easier to set each of the multiple air conditioners 10.

[0144] (Modification 1 of the implementation method)

[0145] It should be noted that the above description provides an example of the case where the adjustment unit 60 is an active filter 61, but it is not limited to this.

[0146] For example, such as Figure 7As shown, the adjustment unit 60 may also include a phase-advancing capacitor 62a and a capacitor switching mechanism 62b. The capacitor switching mechanism 62b switches the connection state between the phase-advancing capacitor 62a and the AC power supply 2. The capacitor switching mechanism 62b is controlled by the control unit 80. For example, the capacitor switching mechanism 62b is composed of a thyristor.

[0147] like Figure 8 As shown, the adjustment unit 60 may also include a lagging reactor 63a and a reactor switching mechanism 63b. The reactor switching mechanism 63b switches the connection state between the lagging reactor 63a and the AC power supply 2. The reactor switching mechanism 63b is controlled by the control unit 80. For example, the reactor switching mechanism 63b is composed of a thyristor.

[0148] In summary, the adjustment unit 60 may include at least one of the following: an active filter 61, a combination of an advancing capacitor 62a and a capacitor switching mechanism 62b, and a combination of a lagging reactor 63a and a reactor switching mechanism 63b. The active filter 61 is connected to the AC power supply 2; the capacitor switching mechanism 62b switches the connection state between the advancing capacitor 62a and the AC power supply 2; and the reactor switching mechanism 63b switches the connection state between the lagging reactor 63a and the AC power supply 2.

[0149] (Modification 2 of the implementation method)

[0150] Furthermore, in the above description, as an example of information corresponding to the target apparent power (the target value of the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power supply 2), information regarding the operating status of the load unit 20 (a device connected to the AC power supply 2 along with the air conditioner 10) was given, but it is not limited to this. For example, the information corresponding to the target apparent power could also be an apparent power command showing the target value of the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power supply 2.

[0151] As described above, for the air conditioner 10 in the modified embodiment 2, the information corresponding to the target value of the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power supply 2 is information about the operating status of the device 20 connected to the AC power supply 2 together with the air conditioner 10, or an apparent power command indicating the target value of the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power supply 2.

[0152] (Modification 3 of the implementation method)

[0153] It should be noted that the control unit 80 may also be configured to infer the change in the power factor (power factor of AC power supply 2) caused by the operation of the load 20 based on the operating state of the load 20, and determine the target compensation current (target values ​​of the currents Ir1a, Is1a, It1a of the input adjustment device 50) based on the change in the power factor caused by the operation of the load 20, so as to make the power factor become the target power factor.

[0154] For example, such as Figure 9 As shown, the control unit 80 can also be replaced by a load power factor inference unit 88. Figure 3 The load current estimation unit 82 is shown. The load power factor estimation unit 88 estimates the change in power factor caused by the operation of the load 20 based on the detection result of the state detection unit 31, and outputs the estimated change as the load power factor PL. Specifically, the load power factor estimation unit 88 has table data that establishes a correspondence between the operating state of the load 20 and the change in power factor caused by the operation of the load 20. Furthermore, the load power factor estimation unit 88 detects from the table data the change in power factor caused by the operation of the load 20 that corresponds to the operating state of the load 20 represented by the detection signal S1 output from the state detection unit 31, and outputs the detected change as the load power factor PL.

[0155] Or, in Figure 9 In the control unit 80 shown, the load power factor inference unit 88 may also be configured to infer the change in power factor caused by the operation of the load 20 based on the setting of the setting unit 32, and output the inferred change as the load power factor PL. Specifically, the load power factor inference unit 88 may have table data that establishes a correspondence between the setting of the setting unit 32 (at least one of the type of load 20 and the presence or absence of the load 20) and the change in power factor caused by the operation of the load 20. Furthermore, the load power factor inference unit 88 can detect from the table data the change in power factor caused by the operation of the load 20 that corresponds to the setting of the setting unit 32 represented by the detection signal S1 output from the setting unit 32, and output the detected change as the load power factor PL.

[0156] (Modification 4 of the implementation method)

[0157] In addition, as described above, the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 that operates during the off period of the air conditioner 10 may be lower than the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 that operates during the operation period of the air conditioner 10.

[0158] For example, when the active filter 61 is activated during the operation of the air conditioner 10, the control unit 80 controls the active filter 61 to operate so that its carrier frequency becomes a predetermined first frequency. Conversely, when the active filter 61 is activated during the off-peak period of the air conditioner 10, the control unit 80 controls the active filter 61 to operate so that its carrier frequency becomes a predetermined second frequency. It should be noted that the second frequency is a frequency lower than the first frequency.

[0159] As described above, in the case of the air conditioner 10 of the modified embodiment 4, the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 that operates during the shutdown period of the air conditioner 10 is lower than the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 that operates during the operation period of the air conditioner 10.

[0160] In a variation of the implementation, by making the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 operating during the off-peak period of the air conditioner 10 lower than the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 operating during the on-peak period of the air conditioner 10, the temperature rise of the active filter 61 during the off-peak period can be reduced. This extends the continuous operating time of the active filter 61.

[0161] (Modification 5 of the implementation method)

[0162] In the above description, a temperature sensor (not shown) can be provided to the active filter 61 to detect the temperature of the components constituting the active filter 61. The detection result of this temperature sensor is sent to the control unit 80. Furthermore, the control unit 80 can change the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 according to the temperature of the components constituting the active filter 61.

[0163] For example, if a component of the active filter 61 subject to temperature management is a component whose temperature tends to decrease as the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 increases (e.g., reactor 61b), then when the temperature of this component is higher than a predetermined first temperature, the control unit 80 increases the carrier frequency of the active filter 61; and when the temperature of this component is lower than a predetermined second temperature, the control unit 80 decreases the carrier frequency of the active filter 61. It should be noted that the second temperature is set to be below the first temperature.

[0164] Furthermore, if the components of the active filter 61 subject to temperature management are components that tend to increase in temperature as the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 increases (e.g., switching element 61c), when the temperature of such a component is higher than a predetermined first temperature, the control unit 80 decreases the carrier frequency of the active filter 61; when the temperature of such a component is lower than a predetermined second temperature, the control unit 80 increases the carrier frequency of the active filter 61. It should be noted that the second temperature is set to, for example, a temperature lower than the first temperature.

[0165] As described above, in the air conditioner 10 of the modified embodiment 5, the control unit 80 changes the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 according to the temperature of the components constituting the active filter 61.

[0166] In a variation of the implementation, by changing the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 according to the temperature of the components constituting the active filter 61, the temperature rise of the active filter 61 can be reduced. This extends the continuous operating time of the active filter 61.

[0167] (Modification 6 of the implementation method)

[0168] In the above description, a temperature sensor (not shown) can also be provided to the active filter 61 to detect the temperature of each of the reactor 61b and the switching element 61c included in the active filter 61. The detection result of the temperature sensor is sent to the control unit 80. Moreover, the control unit 80 can change the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 according to the temperature of each of the reactor 61b and the switching element 61c included in the active filter 61.

[0169] For example, when the temperature of the reactor 61b of the active filter 61 is higher than a predetermined first determination temperature, the control unit 80 increases the carrier frequency of the active filter 61; when the temperature of the switching element 61c of the active filter 61 is higher than a predetermined second determination temperature, the control unit 80 decreases the carrier frequency of the active filter 61. It should be noted that the first determination temperature is set, for example, to the temperature of the switching element 61c or the temperature of the switching element 61c plus a predetermined first correction temperature (a temperature higher than zero). The second determination temperature is set, for example, to the temperature of the reactor 61b or the temperature of the reactor 61b plus a predetermined second correction temperature (a temperature higher than zero).

[0170] As described above, in the air conditioner 10 of the modified embodiment 6, the control unit 80 changes the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 according to the temperature of the reactor 61b and the switching element 61c included in the active filter 61.

[0171] In a variation of the embodiment 6, by changing the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 according to the temperature of the reactor 61b and the switching element 61c included in the active filter 61, the temperature rise of the active filter 61 can be reduced. This extends the continuous operating time of the active filter 61.

[0172] (Modification 7 of the implementation method)

[0173] In the above description, when the active filter 61 is working during the shutdown period of the air conditioner 10, the control unit 80 can also make the cooler 65 work.

[0174] For example, if the temperature rise of the active filter 61 caused by the change in the carrier frequency of the active filter 61 cannot be sufficiently reduced during the shutdown of the air conditioner 10, the control unit 80 activates the cooler 65.

[0175] As described above, in the case of the air conditioner 10 of the modified embodiment 7, when the active filter 61 is working during the shutdown period of the air conditioner 10, the control unit 80 enables the cooler 65 to work.

[0176] In variation 7 of the implementation, when the active filter 61 operates during the shutdown period of the air conditioner 10, the cooler 65 can be forced to operate, thereby reducing the temperature rise of the active filter 61 operating during the shutdown period of the air conditioner 10. This extends the continuous operating time of the active filter 61.

[0177] (Variation 8 of the implementation method)

[0178] Furthermore, as described above, the active filter 61 can be made of a wide-bandgap semiconductor. For example, the switching element included in the active filter 61 can be made of any of silicon carbide, gallium oxide, or diamond, which are examples of wide-bandgap semiconductors.

[0179] As described above, in the air conditioner 10 of the modified embodiment 8, the active filter 61 is made of a wide bandgap semiconductor.

[0180] In variation 8 of the implementation, by using a wide-bandgap semiconductor to fabricate the active filter 61, the power consumption of the active filter 61 can be reduced. This reduces the temperature rise of the active filter 61, thereby extending the continuous operating time of the active filter 61.

[0181] (Modification 9 of the implementation method)

[0182] Furthermore, as described above, the control unit 80 can control the adjustment unit 60 so that the adjustment unit 60 can operate continuously for a period of more than 14 hours, including the period during which power factor discount is implemented (e.g., the period from 8:00 to 22:00).

[0183] As described above, in the air conditioner 10 of the modified embodiment 9, the control unit 80 controls the adjustment unit 60 so that the adjustment unit 60 operates continuously for a period of 14 hours or more, including the period during which power factor discount is implemented.

[0184] In variation 9 of the implementation, the adjustment unit 60 is controlled to operate continuously for a period of 14 hours or more, including the period during which the power factor discount is implemented. Even during periods when the power factor discount is not implemented, the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the AC power supply 2 is controlled so that the power factor of the AC power supply 2 is close to the target power factor (e.g., 1).

[0185] (Other implementation methods)

[0186] It should be noted that the data (or signal) transmission and reception in System 1 can be either wired or wireless. Specifically, the data transmission and reception between various sensors (such as the first current detector 71, the second current detector 72, etc.) and the control unit 80, and the signal transmission and reception between the input unit 30 (status detection unit 31 or setting unit 32) and the control unit 80 can be either wired or wireless. It should be noted that by making the data (or signal) transmission and reception wireless, wiring can be eliminated.

[0187] Furthermore, the above description provides an example of an air conditioner 10 equipped with an adjustment device 50, but it is not limited to this. For example, the adjustment device 50 may also be located outside the air conditioner 10, or it may be assembled into other equipment different from the air conditioner 10 (e.g., load cell 20). Similarly, the adjustment unit 60 and the control unit 80 may be assembled into the air conditioner 10, located outside the air conditioner 10, or assembled into other equipment different from the air conditioner 10 (e.g., load cell 20).

[0188] Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments, examples are given of the case where the status detection unit 31 is provided outside the air conditioner 10, but it is not limited to this. For example, the status detection unit 31 may also be assembled to the air conditioner 10, or it may be assembled to other devices different from the air conditioner 10 (e.g., load cell 20).

[0189] Furthermore, in the third and fourth embodiments, examples are given of the setting unit 32 being assembled with the air conditioner 10 and being provided outside the air conditioner 10, but the embodiments are not limited to these. For example, the setting unit 32 may also be assembled with other devices different from the air conditioner 10 (e.g., load cell 20).

[0190] The embodiments and modifications have been described above, but it is understood that various changes can be made to the embodiments and details without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. The embodiments and modifications described above can also be appropriately combined or substituted, provided that the functionality of the object of this disclosure is not affected.

[0191] -Industry Applicability-

[0192] In conclusion, this disclosure is useful as an air conditioner.

[0193] - Symbol Explanation -

[0194] 1 System

[0195] 2 AC power supply

[0196] 3. Distribution panel

[0197] 10 Air conditioners

[0198] 20. Load cell (device connected to AC power supply)

[0199] 30 Input Section

[0200] 31 Condition Detection Department

[0201] 32 Setting Department

[0202] 40 Power conversion device

[0203] 50 Adjustment device

[0204] 60 Adjustment Department

[0205] 65 Cooler

[0206] 80 Control Department

Claims

1. An air conditioner connected to an AC power source (2), characterized in that: The air conditioner includes an adjustment unit (60) and a control unit (80). The adjustment unit (60) adjusts the apparent power at the power input terminal of the air conditioner (10); The control unit (80) controls the adjustment unit (60) based on information corresponding to the target value of the apparent power supplied to the AC power supply (2) from the air conditioner (10). The information corresponding to the target value of the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner (10) to the AC power source (2) is an apparent power command indicating the target value of the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner (10) to the AC power source (2), or information about the operating status of the device (20) connected to the AC power source (2) together with the air conditioner (10) except for the current.

2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that: The adjustment unit (60) includes at least one of the following: an active filter (61), a combination of a phase-leading capacitor (62a) and a capacitor switching mechanism (62b), and a combination of a hysteresis reactor (63a) and a reactor switching mechanism (63b). The active filter (61) is connected to the AC power supply (2); The capacitor switching mechanism (62b) switches the connection state between the phase-advancing capacitor (62a) and the AC power supply (2); The reactor switching mechanism (63b) switches the connection state between the lagging reactor (63a) and the AC power supply (2).

3. The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The information corresponding to the target value of the apparent power supplied from the air conditioner (10) to the AC power source (2) is information about the operating status of the device (20) connected to the air conditioner (10) and the AC power source (2), excluding current. Information about the operating status of the device (20) connected to the AC power supply (2) along with the air conditioner (10), excluding the current, is input to the input unit (30). The control unit (80) controls the adjustment unit (60) based on the information input to the input unit (30).

4. The air conditioner according to claim 3, characterized in that: The input unit (30) includes a status detection unit (31), which detects the operating status of the device (20) connected to the AC power supply (2) together with the air conditioner (10), except for the current. The control unit (80) controls the adjustment unit (60) based on the detection result of the state detection unit (31).

5. The air conditioner according to claim 3, characterized in that: The input unit (30) includes a setting unit (32), which sets at least one of the type of device (20) connected to the AC power supply (2) together with the air conditioner (10) and the presence or absence of the device (20). The control unit (80) controls the adjustment unit (60) based on the settings of the setting unit (32).

6. The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: During the shutdown of the air conditioner (10), the control unit (80) also controls the adjustment unit (60) based on information corresponding to the target value of the apparent power supplied to the AC power supply (2) from the air conditioner (10).

7. The air conditioner according to claim 6, characterized in that: The adjustment unit (60) includes an active filter (61) connected to the AC power supply (2). The carrier frequency of the active filter (61) that operates during the shutdown period of the air conditioner (10) is lower than the carrier frequency of the active filter (61) that operates during the operation period of the air conditioner (10).

8. The air conditioner according to claim 6, characterized in that: The air conditioner includes a cooler (65). The adjustment unit (60) includes an active filter (61) connected to the AC power supply (2). The cooler (65) cools the active filter (61). When the active filter (61) is working during the shutdown of the air conditioner (10), the control unit (80) causes the cooler (65) to work.

9. The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The adjustment unit (60) includes an active filter (61) connected to the AC power supply (2). The control unit (80) changes the carrier frequency of the active filter (61) according to the temperature of the components constituting the active filter (61).

10. The air conditioner according to claim 9, characterized in that: The active filter (61) includes a reactor (61b) and a switching element (61c). The control unit (80) changes the carrier frequency of the active filter (61) according to the temperature of the reactor (61b) and the switching element (61c) included in the active filter (61).

11. The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The adjustment unit (60) includes an active filter (61) connected to the AC power supply (2). The active filter (61) is made of a wide-bandgap semiconductor.

12. The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The control unit (80) controls the adjustment unit (60) so that the adjustment unit (60) operates continuously for a period of more than 14 hours, including the period during which the power factor discount is implemented.

Images