Sensor power supply control system and air purifier

Abstract

The sensor power supply control system of the present disclosure is provided with: a sensor power supply control section (4) capable of performing supply of power for operating a sensor (3) and cutting off the supply of power; a wireless communication unit power supply control section (6) capable of performing supply of power for operating a wireless communication unit (5) and cutting off the supply of power; and a wireless connection setting unit (7) for selectively switching the supply of power to the wireless communication unit (5) and cutting off the supply of power by the wireless communication unit power supply control section (6). The sensor power supply control section (4) performs supply of power to the sensor (3) in a state where an electric load (1) is being driven, and cuts off the supply of power to the sensor (3) in a state where the electric load (1) has stopped, in a case where the supply of power to the wireless communication unit (5) by the wireless communication unit power supply control section (6) is cut off, and in a case where wireless communication cannot be performed although the supply of power to the wireless communication unit (5) is being performed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to sensor power control systems and air purifiers. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a control system for an air purifier. The air purifier described in Patent Document 1 includes a dust sensor for detecting dirt in indoor air and a communication unit capable of wirelessly communicating with an external device. The control system described in Patent Document 1 is configured to calculate the consumption rate of the dust collection filter based on information output from the air purifier and report the consumption rate to the user.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-179389

[0004] In the air purifier described in Patent Document 1, power is supplied to the dust sensor, for example, when the air purifier is stopped or when it is not necessary to activate the dust sensor. Therefore, there is a problem of wasted power consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure addresses the problems described above. The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a sensor power control system capable of suppressing power waste in electrical equipment, and an air purifier utilizing this sensor power control system.

[0006] The sensor power supply control system disclosed herein includes: an electric load that drives electrical equipment during operation; a control unit that controls the driving of the electric load; a sensor that collects information required for controlling the electrical equipment; a sensor power supply control unit capable of supplying and cutting off power for operating the sensor; a wireless communication unit that provides the information collected by the sensor to the outside via wireless communication; a wireless communication unit power supply control unit capable of supplying and cutting off power for operating the wireless communication unit; and a wireless connection setting unit for selectively switching the connection established by the wireless communication unit power supply control unit. The sensor power control unit supplies power to the sensor when the electric load is running, regardless of the wireless communication connection status between the wireless communication unit and the external wireless communication unit. When the electric load has stopped, the sensor power control unit cuts off the power supply to the wireless communication unit through the wireless connection setting unit, and when the power supply to the wireless communication unit is running through the wireless communication unit power control unit but wireless communication with the external wireless communication unit is not possible.

[0007] The air purifier disclosed herein includes: an intake port for drawing in air; an air purification unit for purifying the air drawn in from the intake port; an exhaust port for discharging the air purified by the air purification unit; an electric blower for supplying air from the intake port to the exhaust port; a control unit for controlling the drive of the electric blower; a dust sensor for detecting dust in the air; a dust sensor power control unit for supplying and cutting off power to activate the dust sensor; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly transmitting information detected by the dust sensor to an external source; a wireless communication unit power control unit for supplying and cutting off power to activate the wireless communication unit; and a wireless connection setting unit for... The dust sensor power control unit selectively switches between supplying power to the wireless communication unit via the power control unit and cutting off the power supply to the wireless communication unit. When the electric blower is running, the dust sensor power control unit supplies power to the dust sensor regardless of the wireless communication connection status between the wireless communication unit and the outside. When the electric blower has stopped, the dust sensor power control unit cuts off the power supply to the wireless communication unit via the power control unit through the setting of the wireless connection setting unit, and when the power supply to the wireless communication unit via the power control unit is running but wireless communication with the outside through the wireless communication unit is not possible.

[0008] According to this disclosure, a sensor power control system capable of suppressing the waste of power in electrical equipment and an air purifier using the sensor power control system are available. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing the overall structure of the sensor power control system in Implementation Method 1.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the structure of the wireless communication unit in Implementation Method 1.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the operating unit of an electrical device that uses the sensor power control system described in Embodiment 1.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the transmission and reception of information by various parts of the sensor power control system in Embodiment 1.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the sensor power control system in Implementation Method 1.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the air purifier in Embodiment 2.

[0015] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A sectional view of line A-A in the diagram.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the state after the side panel of the air purifier constituting Embodiment 2 has been removed.

[0017] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the dust sensor in Embodiment 2.

[0018] Figure 10 This is a block diagram showing the functional structure of the air purifier in Embodiment 2.

[0019] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the transmission and reception of information by various parts of the air purifier in Embodiment 2.

[0020] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the air purifier in Implementation Method 2.

[0021] Figure 13 This is a block diagram showing the functional structure of the air purifier in embodiment 3.

[0022] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the air purifier operation unit included in the air purifier of embodiment 3.

[0023] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the air purifier in Implementation Method 3.

[0024] Figure 16 This is a functional block diagram representing a modified example of the air purifier in Implementation Method 3.

[0025] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the transmission and reception of information by each part in a modified example of the air purifier in Embodiment 3.

[0026] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating an operational example of a variation of the air purifier in Embodiment 3. Detailed Implementation

[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the various drawings, common or corresponding elements are labeled with the same reference numerals, and in this disclosure, repeated descriptions are simplified or omitted.

[0028] Implementation method 1.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing the overall structure of the sensor power supply control system in Embodiment 1. The sensor power supply control system is a system for appropriately controlling the operation of the electrical equipment 100. The sensor power supply control system of this disclosure is applied to various electrical equipment 100. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the electrical equipment 100 using a sensor power control system includes an electric load 1, a control unit 2, a sensor 3, a sensor power control unit 4, a wireless communication unit 5, a wireless communication unit power control unit 6, and a wireless connection setting unit 7.

[0030] The electric load 1 is driven when the electrical equipment 100 is in operation. The drive of the electric load 1 is controlled by the control unit 2. The electric load 1 is driven, for example, based on a drive control signal output from the control unit 2. For example, if the electrical equipment 100 is an air purifier, the electric load 1 is equivalent to an electric blower for drawing air into the interior of the air purifier.

[0031] The control unit 2 for controlling the electric load 1 is, for example, a microcomputer. The control unit 2 has the function of controlling various operations of the electrical equipment 100. For example, the control unit 2 has the function of performing processing to output drive control signals to the electric load 1. The electric load 1 is driven according to the input drive control signals. Furthermore, the control unit 2 in this embodiment, for example, has the function of communicating with the wireless communication unit 5.

[0032] Sensor 3 collects information necessary for controlling electrical equipment 100. Sensor 3 collects information for controlling electrical equipment 100 during normal operation. Additionally, in this embodiment, sensor 3 also includes components for collecting information to detect abnormal states of electrical equipment 100. Sensor 3 can be various sensing and detection devices such as temperature sensors, humidity sensors, dust sensors, current sensors, magnetic sensors, light sensors, pressure sensors, vibration sensors, ultrasonic sensors, speed sensors, acceleration sensors, angle sensors, distance sensors, flow sensors, load sensors, position sensors, water level sensors, and infrared sensors.

[0033] Sensor 3 has the function of outputting the collected information as sensor information to control unit 2. Control unit 2 acquires the sensor information output from sensor 3 and performs various processes based on the acquired sensor information. Specifically, control unit 2 modifies the content of the drive control signal output to electric load 1 based on the acquired sensor information. The drive of electric load 1 is controlled according to the information collected by sensor 3.

[0034] To enable the function of sensor 3, power is required to operate it. Sensor power control unit 4 is capable of supplying and cutting off power to sensor 3. Control unit 2 controls the power supply to and from sensor 3 operated by sensor power control unit 4. Specifically, control unit 2 outputs a sensor power control signal to sensor power control unit 4. Sensor power control unit 4, in response to the sensor power control signal output from control unit 2, supplies or cuts off power to sensor 3.

[0035] The sensor power control system of this embodiment includes a sensor power control unit 4, which allows power to be supplied to the sensor 3 only when information collection by the sensor 3 is required. When information collection by the sensor 3 is not required, the sensor power control system of this embodiment can cut off the power supply to the sensor 3. This helps to reduce power waste.

[0036] A sensor power control unit 4 is provided on the power supply line for supplying power to the sensor 3. The sensor power control unit 4 functions as a switch, implemented by a semiconductor switch such as a FET or transistor. As described above, the sensor power control unit 4 receives a sensor power control signal output from the control unit 2. The sensor power control unit 4 switches the switch on and off according to the content of the sensor power control signal. Thus, it switches between supplying and cutting off power to the sensor 3.

[0037] The wireless communication unit 5 is used for wireless communication between the electrical device 100 and the outside world. The wireless communication unit 5 is connected to the control unit 2 via a wired connection. As described above, the wireless communication unit 5 has the function of communicating with the control unit 2. The control unit 2 transmits sensor information obtained from the sensor 3 to the wireless communication unit as wireless communication information. Based on the wireless communication information received from the control unit 2, the wireless communication unit 5 can provide the information collected by the sensor 3 to the outside world of the electrical device 100 via wireless communication.

[0038] In this embodiment, the wireless communication unit 5 is wirelessly connected to an external wireless communication device 8 of the electrical equipment 100 for bidirectional communication. The wireless communication unit 5 is configured, for example, as a so-called wireless communication module.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the structure of the wireless communication unit 5 in Embodiment 1. (As shown...) Figure 2 As shown, the wireless communication unit 5 is composed of, for example, a module housing 9, a wireless communication control board 10, and a wire 11. A patterned antenna 12 is printed on the wireless communication control board 10 as an antenna for wireless communication.

[0040] Furthermore, the structure of the wireless communication unit 5 is not limited to... Figure 2 As shown. The wireless communication unit 5 only needs to be able to enable communication between the electrical device 100 and external devices, and can be configured arbitrarily.

[0041] To enable the function of the wireless communication unit 5, power is required to operate it. The wireless communication unit power control unit 6 is capable of supplying and cutting off power to the wireless communication unit 5. The control unit 2 controls the power supply to and from the wireless communication unit 5 operated by the power control unit 6. Specifically, the control unit 2 outputs a power control signal to the power control unit 6. The power control unit 6 then supplies or cuts off power to the wireless communication unit 5 in response to the power control signal output from the control unit 2.

[0042] The power control unit 6 of the wireless communication unit functions as a switch, similar to the power control unit 4 of the sensor, and is implemented by a semiconductor switch such as a FET or transistor. The power control unit 6 of the wireless communication unit switches the power supply to the wireless communication unit 5 and cuts off the power supply to the wireless communication unit 5 in response to the power control signal of the wireless communication unit output from the control unit 2.

[0043] The sensor power control system of this embodiment, by including a power control unit 6 for the wireless communication unit, can supply power to the wireless communication unit 5 only when wireless communication is required. This sensor power control system can also cut off the power supply to the wireless communication unit 5 when wireless communication is not needed. Therefore, power waste can be suppressed.

[0044] The wireless connection setting unit 7 is used to selectively switch the power supply to the wireless communication unit 5 and cut off the power supply to the wireless communication unit 5 as controlled by the power control unit 6 of the wireless communication unit. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the operation unit 13 of the electrical equipment 100 that uses the sensor power control system of Embodiment 1. Figure 3 The operating unit 13 shown is an example of the case where the electrical equipment 100 is an air purifier. For example... Figure 3As shown, the wireless connection setting unit 7 is configured, for example, as a switch included in the operation section 13 for the user to operate the electrical device 100. The user can arbitrarily set the wireless communication between the electrical device 100 and the outside world through the wireless connection setting unit 7. Specifically, by operating the wireless connection setting unit 7, the user can arbitrarily switch the power supply for activating the wireless communication unit 5 and cut off the power supply.

[0045] Furthermore, the wireless connection setting unit 7 is configured as follows: Figure 3 In the case of a switch as shown, the switch may also have other functions besides wireless communication settings. When the wireless connection setting unit 7 is configured as a switch with multiple functions, for example, the user can set up wireless communication by performing a long press operation on the switch or by simultaneously pressing multiple switches, including the switch itself. The switch implementing the functions of the wireless connection setting unit 7 can be, for example, a switch with physical contacts, such as a tactile switch, or a switch without physical contacts that utilizes an electrostatic capacitor. The switch implementing the functions of the wireless connection setting unit 7 is configured to transmit a signal indicating the user's intention to operate to the control unit 2 in response to the user's operation. The control unit 2 outputs a power control signal for the wireless communication unit in response to the user's operation on the wireless connection setting unit 7.

[0046] The wireless communication device 8, which connects wirelessly to the wireless communication unit 5, is, for example, equivalent to a wireless router installed in the indoor space H. The wireless communication device 8 is connected to the server 200 via a network line or similar means. The server 200 communicates bidirectionally with the mobile terminal 300. Furthermore, the server 200 can be installed either indoors or outdoors.

[0047] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the transmission and reception of information by various parts of the sensor power control system in Embodiment 1. For example... Figure 4 As shown, server 200 receives sensor information from control unit 2 via wireless communication unit 5 and wireless communication device 8. As described above, this sensor information includes information collected by sensor 3. Additionally, the sensor information received by server 200 from control unit 2 may also include information such as the status of sensor 3 and the operating status of electrical equipment 100. Server 200 transmits the information received from control unit 2 to mobile terminal 300. Mobile terminal 300 has the function of displaying to the user the sensor information received from control unit 2 via wireless communication unit 5, wireless communication device 8, and server 200.

[0048] In this embodiment, the electrical equipment 100 is configured to be operated via a mobile terminal 300. If a user changes the operating state of the electrical equipment 100 via the mobile terminal 300, an operating state change instruction corresponding to that operation is sent from the mobile terminal 300. The operating state change instruction sent from the mobile terminal 300 is received by the server 200. The server 200 sends the operating state change instruction to the control unit 2 via the wireless communication device 8 and the wireless communication unit 5. The control unit 2 controls the operating state of the electrical equipment 100 based on the received operating state change instruction. In this way, the user can remotely operate the electrical equipment 100.

[0049] Alternatively, the control unit 2 can also send information indicating that the operating status of the electrical equipment 100 has been changed without issue in accordance with the user's operation as operating status change information. This operating status change information is sent to the mobile terminal 300 via the wireless communication unit 5, the wireless communication device 8, and the server 200. Upon receiving the operating status change information, the mobile terminal 300 can report to the user, through screen display or sound, that the operating status of the electrical equipment 100 has been changed without issue.

[0050] The mobile terminal 300 is configured to connect to a network line. The mobile terminal 300 is, for example, a smartphone or a tablet computer. The mobile terminal 300 achieves the aforementioned remote operation function by configuring a connection to the server 200 with an application installed for connecting to the server 200. Alternatively, the mobile terminal 300 can also be a dedicated remote control. Furthermore, the functions of the mobile terminal 300 can also be implemented using a non-portable device such as a desktop computer.

[0051] Furthermore, the wireless communication unit 5 of the electrical equipment 100 can also be configured to perform communication with the server 200 without relying on the wireless communication device 8, such as a wireless router. Additionally, the wireless communication unit 5 can also be configured to perform communication with the mobile terminal 300 without relying on at least one of the wireless communication device 8 and the server 200.

[0052] Next, the operation of the sensor power control system of this embodiment will be explained with reference to the flowchart. Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the sensor power control system in Implementation Method 1.

[0053] First, depending on whether the electrical equipment 100 is in operation, that is, whether the electric load 1 is being driven, the content of the processing changes (step S101). When the electric load 1 is being driven, regardless of whether the wireless communication unit 5 is connected or disconnected from the external wireless communication, the sensor power control unit 4 performs power supply processing to the sensor 3 (step S102).

[0054] On the other hand, when the electric load 1 has stopped, the processing performed corresponding to the wireless connection settings made through the wireless connection setting unit 7 changes (step S103). If the settings for wireless communication between the electrical device 100 and the outside world have been made through the wireless connection setting unit 7, the wireless communication unit power control unit 6 supplies power to the wireless communication unit 5 (step S104). If the settings for wireless communication between the electrical device 100 and the outside world have not been made through the wireless connection setting unit 7, the wireless communication unit power control unit 6 cuts off the power supply to the wireless communication unit 5 (step S105).

[0055] In step S104 above, while power is being supplied to the wireless communication unit 5, the processing changes depending on whether the wireless connection with the outside via the wireless communication unit 5 is normal (step S106). A normal wireless connection with the outside via the wireless communication unit 5 means that information can be transmitted and received between the control unit 2, the wireless communication unit 5, the wireless communication device 8, the server 200, and the mobile terminal 300. In step S106, if the wireless connection with the outside via the wireless communication unit 5 is normal, the sensor power control unit 4 supplies power to the sensor 3 as in step S102 above.

[0056] In step S105 above, if the power supply to the wireless communication unit 5 has been cut off, the sensor power control unit 4 performs the process of cutting off the power supply to the sensor 3. Furthermore, in step S106, if the wireless connection with the outside world via the wireless communication unit 5 is abnormal and wireless communication with the outside world via the wireless communication unit 5 cannot be performed, the sensor power control unit 4 also cuts off the power supply to the sensor 3 (step S107).

[0057] In step S106, the state in which wireless communication with the outside cannot be performed via the wireless communication unit 5 refers to a state in which, although the wireless connection setting process via the wireless connection setting unit 7 has been completed, the wireless connection is not performed normally due to some kind of abnormality. This abnormality is, for example, equivalent to a disconnection in any part or between any part of the control unit 2, the wireless communication unit 5, the wireless communication device 8, the server 200, and the mobile terminal 300, or any operational error of the aforementioned parts.

[0058] As described above, the sensor power control unit 4, which constitutes the sensor power control system of this embodiment, is configured to supply power to the sensor 3 regardless of the wireless communication connection status between the wireless communication unit 5 and the external communication system when the electric load 1 is in operation. Furthermore, the sensor power control unit 4 is configured to cut off the power supply to the wireless communication unit 5 by the wireless communication unit power control unit 6 when the electric load 1 has stopped, or when the power supply to the wireless communication unit 5 by the wireless communication unit power control unit 6 has been cut off, but wireless communication with the external communication system by the wireless communication unit 5 is not possible. With a sensor power control system characterized by this structure, the power supply to the sensor 3 can be cut off when the electrical equipment 100, in a stopped state with the electric load 1, cannot communicate with the external system, thereby preventing the electrical equipment 100 from wasting standby power. For example, it can suppress the waste of electricity when the electrical equipment 100 is unable to provide information to the server 200 and the mobile terminal 300 or cannot be remotely operated through the mobile terminal 300.

[0059] As described above, the sensor power control system of this disclosure is applied to various electrical devices 100. These electrical devices 100 include not only household electrical devices such as home air purifiers, but also vehicle electrical devices such as in-vehicle air purifiers, business electrical devices such as commercial air purifiers, and other various IoT devices. By incorporating the sensor power control system of this disclosure into various IoT devices, IoT functions that suppress power waste can be provided.

[0060] Implementation method 2.

[0061] As shown in Embodiment 1, the sensor power control system of this disclosure can be applied to various electrical devices. Hereinafter, an embodiment of the sensor power control system applied to an air purifier 100a will be described in Embodiment 2. Furthermore, the same reference numerals are used for parts that are the same as or equivalent to those in Embodiment 1, and repeated descriptions are simplified and omitted.

[0062] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the air purifier 100a in Embodiment 2. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A sectional view of line A-A in the diagram. (Example) Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the air purifier 100a includes: an intake port 82a for drawing in air; an air purification unit 60 for purifying the air drawn in from the intake port 82a; an exhaust port 51a for discharging the air purified by the air purification unit 60; and an electric blower 1a for supplying air from the intake port 82a to the exhaust port 51a. The air purification unit 60 is, for example, composed of a pleated filter. In this embodiment, the electric blower 1a corresponds to the electric load 1 in embodiment 1. The intake port 82a and the exhaust port 51a are formed on the outer perimeter of the main body of the air purifier 100a.

[0063] The air purifier 100a of this embodiment is configured for use by placing it on the floor indoors. As a reference orientation for the air purifier 100a when it is placed, such as... Figure 6 The "front direction" is defined as shown.

[0064] The outer contour of the main body of the air purifier 100a is formed by a front surface 70 and side surfaces 80, etc. In the illustrated example, the air purifier 100a has a cuboid shape. The front surface 70 and side surfaces 80 of the air purifier 100a each form a plane perpendicular to the horizontal plane. The front surface 70 and side surfaces 80 are orthogonal to each other.

[0065] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the state after the side panel 80 of the air purifier 100a in Embodiment 2 has been removed. The air purifier 100a of this embodiment includes a dust sensor 3a for detecting dust in the air. This dust sensor 3a is equivalent to the sensor 3 in Embodiment 1.

[0066] like Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the dust sensor 3a is disposed on the outer contour of the air purifier 100a, i.e., on the inner side 80. The dust sensor 3a is capable of detecting dust contained in the air surrounding the air purifier 100a. In the illustrated example, the dust sensor 3a is disposed at a position relative to the upper end and close to the lower end of the air purifier 100a. The dust sensor 3a is not disposed in the air duct from the suction port 82a to the exhaust port 51a of the air purifier 100a, so it can detect dust in the air surrounding the air purifier 100a even when the electric blower 1a is not driven.

[0067] Figure 9This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the dust sensor 3a in Embodiment 2. (See diagram for example.) Figure 9 As shown in the example, the dust sensor 3a may also include a heater 41 for generating a dust path inside the dust sensor 3a. The dust path refers to the path through which dust-containing air travels. The dust sensor 3a is configured to detect dust in the air traveling along the dust path. Figure 9 In the example, the dust sensor 3a includes a light-emitting part 44 and a light-receiving part 45 for optically detecting dust contained in the air passing through the dust path.

[0068] The dust path is formed by an upward airflow generated by the heater 41. In this embodiment, a main body intake 14a and a main body exhaust 14b are formed on the lower part of the side 80 of the air purifier 100a. Additionally, a dust sensor intake 42 and a dust sensor exhaust 43 are formed on the dust sensor 3a. The dust path is formed sequentially through the main body intake 14a, the dust sensor intake 42, the interior of the dust sensor 3a, the dust sensor exhaust 43, and the main body exhaust 14b. The upward airflow generated by the heater 41 transports dust-laden air around the outer periphery of the air purifier 100a through the aforementioned dust path and draws it into the interior of the dust sensor 3a.

[0069] Figure 10 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional structure of the air purifier 100a in Embodiment 2. Figure 10 Compared with Implementation Method 1 Figure 1 Corresponding. For example, Figure 10 As shown, the electric blower 1a is driven by the control unit 2. The electric blower 1a is driven, for example, based on a rotation indication signal output from the control unit 2. Additionally, the dust sensor 3a outputs information about the detected dust as dust sensor information to the control unit 2. This dust sensor information includes, for example, information about the amount and concentration of dust.

[0070] like Figure 10 As shown, the air purifier 100a of this embodiment includes a dust sensor power control unit 4a. The dust sensor power control unit 4a is capable of supplying and cutting off the power supply to the dust sensor 3a to activate it. The dust sensor power control unit 4a corresponds to the sensor power control unit 4 in Embodiment 1. The dust sensor power control unit 4a supplies or cuts off the power supply to the dust sensor 3a in response to the dust sensor power control signal output from the control unit 2.

[0071] A dust sensor power control unit 4a is provided on the power supply line for supplying power to the dust sensor 3a. The function of the dust sensor power control unit 4a is a switching function, implemented by a semiconductor switch such as a FET or transistor. The dust sensor power control unit 4a switches the switch on and off according to the content of the dust sensor power control signal output from the control unit 2. Thus, the supply of power to the dust sensor 3a and the disconnection of the power supply to the dust sensor 3a are switched.

[0072] The air purifier 100a is the same as the electrical device 100 in Embodiment 1, and includes a wireless communication unit 5. The wireless communication unit 5 is wiredly connected to the control unit 2 and has the function of communicating with it. The control unit 2 transmits dust sensor information obtained from the dust sensor 3a as wireless communication information to the wireless communication unit. Based on the wireless communication information received from the control unit 2, the wireless communication unit 5 can provide the information detected by the dust sensor 3a to the outside of the air purifier 100a via wireless communication. The wireless communication unit 5 is wirelessly connected to an external wireless communication device 8 of the air purifier 100a, enabling bidirectional communication.

[0073] The air purifier 100a is the same as the electrical device 100 in Embodiment 1, and includes a wireless communication unit power control unit 6. The wireless communication unit power control unit 6 is capable of supplying power to the wireless communication unit 5 and cutting off power supply to the wireless communication unit 5. The function of the wireless communication unit power control unit 6 is a so-called switching function, similar to that of the dust sensor power control unit 4a, and is implemented by a semiconductor switch such as a FET or transistor. The wireless communication unit power control unit 6 switches between supplying and cutting off power to the wireless communication unit 5 in response to the wireless communication unit power control signal output from the control unit 2.

[0074] Furthermore, the air purifier 100a, like the electrical device 100 of Embodiment 1, includes a wireless connection setting unit 7 for selectively switching the power supply to the wireless communication unit 5 and cutting off the power supply to the wireless communication unit 5, which is controlled by the power control unit 6 of the wireless communication unit. The wireless connection setting unit 7 is configured the same as in Embodiment 1. Figure 3 The switch is located on the operation unit 13 as shown.

[0075] The wireless communication device 8, which is wirelessly connected to the wireless communication unit 5, is, for example, equivalent to a wireless router installed in the indoor space H. The wireless communication device 8 is connected to the server 200 via a network line or the like.

[0076] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the transmission and reception of information by various parts of the air purifier 100a in Embodiment 2. For example... Figure 11 As shown, server 200 receives dust sensor information from control unit 2 via wireless communication unit 5 and wireless communication device 8. Furthermore, the dust sensor information received by server 200 from control unit 2 may also include information such as the status of dust sensor 3a and the operating status of air purifier 100a. Server 200 transmits the information received from control unit 2 to mobile terminal 300. Mobile terminal 300 has the function of displaying the received dust sensor information to the user.

[0077] Air purifier 100a is configured to be operated via mobile terminal 300. If a user changes the operating status of air purifier 100a via mobile terminal 300, a corresponding operating status change instruction message is sent from mobile terminal 300. The server 200 receives the operating status change instruction message from mobile terminal 300. The server 200 then sends the operating status change instruction message to control unit 2 via wireless communication device 8 and wireless communication unit 5. Based on the received operating status change instruction message, control unit 2 controls the operating status of air purifier 100a. In this way, the user can remotely operate air purifier 100a.

[0078] Alternatively, the control unit 2 can also send information indicating that the operating status of the air purifier 100a has been changed without issue in accordance with the user's operation as operating status change information. This operating status change information is sent to the mobile terminal 300 via the wireless communication unit 5, the wireless communication device 8, and the server 200. Upon receiving the operating status change information, the mobile terminal 300 can report to the user, through screen display or sound, that the operating status of the air purifier 100a has been changed without issue.

[0079] Furthermore, the wireless communication unit 5 of the air purifier 100a can also be configured to communicate with the server 200 without relying on a wireless communication device 8 such as a wireless router. Alternatively, the wireless communication unit 5 can also be configured to communicate with the mobile terminal 300 without relying on at least one of the wireless communication device 8 or the server 200. The mobile terminal 300 can be a smartphone, a tablet computer, or a dedicated remote control. The functions of the mobile terminal 300 can also be implemented using a non-portable device such as a desktop computer.

[0080] Next, the operation of the air purifier 100a in this embodiment will be explained with reference to the flowchart. Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the air purifier 100a in Embodiment 2.

[0081] First, depending on whether the air purifier 100a is in operation, that is, whether the electric blower 1a is being driven, the content of the processing changes (step S201). When the electric blower 1a is being driven, regardless of whether the wireless communication unit 5 is connected or not connected to the external wireless communication, the dust sensor power control unit 4a performs power supply processing to the dust sensor 3a (step S202).

[0082] On the other hand, when the electric fan 1a has stopped, the processing performed corresponding to the wireless connection settings made via the wireless connection setting unit 7 changes (step S203). If the settings for wireless communication between the air purifier 100a and the outside world have been made via the wireless connection setting unit 7, the wireless communication unit power control unit 6 supplies power to the wireless communication unit 5 (step S204). If the settings for wireless communication between the air purifier 100a and the outside world have not been made via the wireless connection setting unit 7, the wireless communication unit power control unit 6 cuts off the power supply to the wireless communication unit 5 (step S205).

[0083] In step S204 above, while power is being supplied to the wireless communication unit 5, the processing changes depending on whether the wireless connection with the outside via the wireless communication unit 5 is normal (step S206). A normal wireless connection with the outside via the wireless communication unit 5 means that information can be transmitted and received between the control unit 2, the wireless communication unit 5, the wireless communication device 8, the server 200, and the mobile terminal 300. In step S206, if the wireless connection with the outside via the wireless communication unit 5 is normal, the sensor power control unit 4 supplies power to the sensor 3 as in step S202 above.

[0084] In step S205 above, if the power supply to the wireless communication unit 5 has been cut off, the sensor power control unit 4 performs the process of cutting off the power supply to the sensor 3. Furthermore, in step S206, if the wireless connection with the outside world via the wireless communication unit 5 is abnormal, and wireless communication with the outside world via the wireless communication unit 5 is impossible, the sensor power control unit 4 also cuts off the power supply to the sensor 3 (step S207).

[0085] In step S206, the state in which wireless communication with the outside cannot be performed via the wireless communication unit 5 refers to a state in which, although the wireless connection setting process via the wireless connection setting unit 7 has been completed, the wireless connection is not performed normally due to some kind of abnormality. This abnormality is, for example, equivalent to a disconnection or malfunction of any part or component among the control unit 2, the wireless communication unit 5, the wireless communication device 8, the server 200, and the mobile terminal 300, or any operational error of the aforementioned components.

[0086] As described above, the dust sensor power control unit 4a of the air purifier 100a in this embodiment is configured to supply power to the dust sensor 3a while the electric blower 1a is running, regardless of the wireless communication connection status between the wireless communication unit 5 and the outside. Furthermore, the dust sensor power control unit 4a is configured to cut off the power supply to the wireless communication unit 5 by the wireless communication unit power control unit 6 when the electric blower 1a is stopped, or when the power supply to the wireless communication unit 5 is cut off by the wireless connection setting unit 7, and when the wireless communication unit power control unit 6 is supplying power to the wireless communication unit 5 but wireless communication with the outside is not possible. With this structure, the air purifier 100a can cut off the power supply to operate the dust sensor 3a when the electric blower 1a is stopped and communication with the outside is impossible, thereby suppressing the waste of standby power. For example, it can suppress the waste of electricity when it is impossible to provide information to the server 200 and the mobile terminal 300 through the air purifier 100a or to remotely operate the air purifier 100a through the mobile terminal 300.

[0087] Furthermore, the structure of the dust sensor 3a is not limited to Figure 9 The structure shown is as follows. For example, the dust sensor 3a may also have a blower for drawing ambient air into the dust sensor 3a. Furthermore, when the dust sensor 3a utilizes the rising airflow generated by the heater 41 without using a blower, for example, it is possible to achieve the effect that the sound of the dust sensor 3a operating will not cause discomfort to the user.

[0088] Implementation method 3.

[0089] Next, Embodiment 3 will be described. The same reference numerals will be used for parts that are the same as or equivalent to those in Embodiments 1 and 2, and repeated descriptions will be simplified and omitted. Figure 13 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional structure of the air purifier 100b in Embodiment 3. For example... Figure 13As shown, the air purifier 100b of this embodiment, in addition to having the structure of the air purifier 100a of embodiment 2, also has a dust sensor power setting unit 20.

[0090] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the air purifier operation unit 13a included in the air purifier 100b of Embodiment 3. The dust sensor power setting unit 20, like the wireless connection setting unit 7, is configured as a switch provided in the air purifier operation unit 13a. The dust sensor power setting unit 20 is used to selectively switch the power supply to and from the dust sensor 3a controlled by the dust sensor power control unit 4a. By operating the dust sensor power setting unit 20, the user can arbitrarily switch the power supply to and from the dust sensor 3a to operate.

[0091] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the air purifier 100b in Embodiment 3. Figure 15 The processes from step S301 to step S307 in the example are the same as those from step S201 to step S207 in embodiment 2, so the description is omitted.

[0092] In this embodiment, in step S306, when the wireless connection with the outside via the wireless communication unit 5 is normal, the processing content changes depending on whether the user sets the power supply of the dust sensor 3a to be on or off via the dust sensor power setting unit 20 (step S308). When the user sets the power supply of the dust sensor 3a to be on, the processing of step S302 is executed, that is, the power supply to the dust sensor 3a by the dust sensor power control unit 4a is executed.

[0093] On the other hand, when the user sets the power supply of the dust sensor 3a to off, step S307 is executed, that is, the dust sensor power control unit 4a cuts off the power supply to the dust sensor 3a. By adopting this structure, users who prioritize reducing power consumption compared to the information collection function based on the dust sensor 3a can suppress power consumption by turning off the dust sensor 3a through the dust sensor power setting unit 20.

[0094] in addition, Figure 16 This is a functional block diagram representing a modified example of the air purifier 100b in Embodiment 3. For example... Figure 16As shown, the air purifier 100b can also be configured to communicate and operate with the air conditioner 400 via a wireless communication device 8, etc. The air conditioner 400 is a device capable of drawing in outside air into an indoor space H. The air conditioner 400 is equivalent to various devices capable of drawing in outside air into an indoor space H. The air conditioner 400 is, for example, an exhaust fan or a ventilation device with heat exchange function. An air conditioner wireless communication unit 5a is wired to the air conditioner 400. The air conditioner wireless communication unit 5a and the wireless communication device 8 can wirelessly transmit and receive information. The air conditioner wireless communication unit 5a has the same functions as the wireless communication unit 5.

[0095] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the transmission and reception of information in various parts of a modified example of the air purifier 100b in Embodiment 3. For example... Figure 17 As shown, if the air conditioner 400, while in a stopped state, enters a state of intake of outside air in response to a user's operation to change the operating state, it will send information indicating that it is performing the operation of intake of outside air into the indoor space H via the air conditioner's wireless communication unit 5a and the server 200, etc., to the control unit 2 of the air purifier 100b. Conversely, if the air conditioner 400 switches to an operating mode that does not intake of outside air into the indoor space H, it will send information indicating that it has stopped intake of outside air into the indoor space H via the air conditioner's wireless communication unit 5a and the server 200, etc., to the control unit 2 of the air purifier 100b. Figure 17 As shown, while the air conditioner 400 is receiving information that it is operating to draw outside air into the indoor space H, even if the power supply to the dust sensor 3a is cut off by the dust sensor power setting unit 20, the air purifier 100b still supplies power to the dust sensor 3a through the dust sensor power control unit 4a.

[0096] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of a modified example of the air purifier 100b in Embodiment 3. Figure 18 The flowchart is shown in Figure 15 In step S308 of the flowchart, the user sets the power supply to the dust sensor 3a to the action flow when it is off. Figure 18 In the example operation, while the air conditioner 400 is operating to draw in outside air, the next process (step S311) is executed. The process of step S311 continues before the air conditioner 400 starts operating to draw in outside air.

[0097] While the air conditioner 400 is operating to draw in outside air, power is supplied to the dust sensor 3a as described above (step S312). Here, it is determined whether the dust concentration detected by the dust sensor 3a is above or below a reference value (step S313). Until the dust concentration detected by the dust sensor 3a reaches or exceeds the reference value, the process in step S313 continues. If the dust concentration detected by the dust sensor 3a reaches or exceeds the reference value, a report that the dust concentration has exceeded the reference value is sent via the mobile terminal 300 (step S314). Furthermore, the rotation speed of the electric blower 1a is increased (step S315). During the operation of the air conditioner 400 drawing in outside air, the process from steps S312 to S315 continues (step S316). When the air conditioner 400 stops drawing in outside air, after a predetermined time has elapsed (step S317), the power supply to the dust sensor 3a is cut off (step S318).

[0098] According to the modified example shown above, when the dust concentration in the outside air drawn into the room is high, the air conditioner 400 can detect that the dust concentration in the indoor space H is increasing through the dust sensor 3a. Furthermore, it can generate a report via the mobile terminal 300 based on the information from the dust sensor 3a. For example, it can recommend to the user that the air conditioner 400 be stopped, or that the rotation speed of the electric fan 1a of the air purifier 100b be automatically increased, to suppress the increase in dust concentration in the indoor space H. Additionally, when the air conditioner 400 switches to an operating mode that stops operation or does not draw in outside air, it can suppress the power consumption of the dust sensor 3a.

[0099] Industrial applicability

[0100] The sensor power control system disclosed herein can be applied, for example, to electrical equipment such as air purifiers.

[0101] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0102] 1…Electric load; 1a…Electric fan; 2…Control unit; 3…Sensor; 3a…Dust sensor; 4…Sensor power control unit; 4a…Dust sensor power control unit; 5…Wireless communication unit; 5a…Wireless communication unit for air conditioner; 6…Wireless communication unit power control unit; 7…Wireless connection setting unit; 8…Wireless communication device; 9…Module housing; 10…Wireless communication control board; 11…Wire; 12…Patterned antenna; 13…Operating unit; 13a…Air purifier operating unit; 14a…Main body intake; 14b…Main body exhaust; 20…Dust sensor power setting unit; 41…Heater; 42…Dust sensor intake; 43…Dust sensor exhaust; 44…Light-emitting unit;

[0103] 45…light receiving section; 51a…exhaust outlet; 60…air purification section; 70…front surface; 80…side surface;

[0104] 82a…suction port; 100…electrical equipment; 100a…air purifier; 100b…air purifier;

[0105] 200…servers; 300…mobile terminals; 400…air conditioners.

Claims

1. A sensor power control system, characterized by, Possessing: An electric load that is driven at the time of operation of an electrical device; A control section that controls driving of the electric load; A sensor that collects information required for control of the electrical device; A sensor power supply control section that can perform supply of power for operating the sensor and cut-off of supply of power for operating the sensor; A wireless communication unit that provides information collected by the sensor to the outside through wireless communication; A wireless communication unit power supply control section that can perform supply of power for operating the wireless communication unit and cut-off of supply of power for operating the wireless communication unit; and A wireless connection setting unit for selectively switching supply of power to the wireless communication unit and cut-off of supply of power to the wireless communication unit by the wireless communication unit power supply control section, The sensor power supply control section performs supply of power to the sensor regardless of the connection state of wireless communication with the outside by the wireless communication unit in a state where the electric load is being driven, The sensor power supply control section cuts off supply of power to the sensor in a state where the electric load has stopped, in a case where supply of power to the wireless communication unit by the wireless communication unit power supply control section is cut off by setting by the wireless connection setting unit, and in a case where wireless communication with the outside by the wireless communication unit is not possible although supply of power to the wireless communication unit by the wireless communication unit power supply control section is being performed. Possessing:

2. An air cleaning machine characterized by, An attraction port for attracting air; An air purification section that purifies air attracted from the attraction port; An exhaust port for exhausting air that has been purified by the air purification section; An electric blower that transports air from the attraction port to the exhaust port; A control section that controls driving of the electric blower; A dust sensor that detects dust in the air; A dust sensor power supply control section that can perform supply of power for operating the dust sensor and cut-off of supply of power for operating the dust sensor; A wireless communication unit that provides information detected by the dust sensor to the outside through wireless communication; A wireless communication unit power supply control section that can perform supply of power for operating the wireless communication unit and cut-off of supply of power for operating the wireless communication unit; and A wireless connection setting unit for selectively switching supply of power to the wireless communication unit and cut-off of supply of power to the wireless communication unit by the wireless communication unit power supply control section, The dust sensor power supply control section performs supply of power to the dust sensor regardless of the connection state of wireless communication with the outside by the wireless communication unit in a state where the electric blower is being driven, The dust sensor power supply control section cuts off supply of power to the dust sensor in a state where the electric blower has stopped, in a case where supply of power to the wireless communication unit by the wireless communication unit power supply control section is cut off by setting by the wireless connection setting unit, and in a case where wireless communication with the outside by the wireless communication unit is not possible although supply of power to the wireless communication unit by the wireless communication unit power supply control section is being performed. ​ The dust sensor power supply control section cuts off the power supply to the dust sensor in a case where the power supply to the wireless communication unit by the wireless communication unit power supply control section is cut off by the setting by the wireless connection setting unit in a state where the electric blower fan has stopped, and in a case where the power supply to the wireless communication unit by the wireless communication unit power supply control section is being performed but wireless communication with the outside by the wireless communication unit cannot be performed.

3. The air cleaning machine according to claim 2, wherein Further comprising a dust sensor power supply setting unit for selectively switching the supply and cut-off of the power to the dust sensor by the dust sensor power supply control section, The air cleaning machine is configured such that, in a case where the power supply to the wireless communication unit by the wireless communication unit power supply control section is being performed, the power supply to the dust sensor can be cut off by the operation of the dust sensor power supply setting unit.

4. The air cleaning machine according to claim 3, wherein The wireless communication unit is capable of wireless communication with an air conditioner wireless communication unit capable of wireless communication with the outside, The dust sensor power supply control section performs the power supply to the dust sensor even in a case where the operation of cutting off the power supply to the dust sensor by the dust sensor power supply setting unit is performed in a state where the air conditioner to which the air conditioner wireless communication unit is connected is sucking in outside air.

5. The air cleaning machine according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein The suction port and the discharge port are provided to an outer portion of the air cleaning machine main body, A suction port for sucking in dust is formed in the outer portion and the dust sensor, A heater for generating an upward airflow is provided inside the dust sensor, The dust sensor is disposed inside the outer portion and is configured to suck in air around the outer portion from the suction port into the inside of the dust sensor by the upward airflow generated by the heater.

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