Air conditioning operation terminal, computer-readable recording medium, and air conditioning system

Abstract

Provided are an air conditioner operation terminal, a computer-readable recording medium, and an air conditioner system. An image acquisition unit (211) acquires a photographic image obtained by photographing an air conditioner indoor unit having a plurality of blowout ports. An image comparison unit (212) compares a template image of an air conditioner indoor unit of the same type as the air conditioner indoor unit and the photographic image. A blowout port identification unit (213) determines a blowout port identifier of each blowout port in the photographic image based on the comparison result and blowout port identification data showing a blowout port identifier corresponding to each blowout port in the template image. An identification result display unit (214) displays the photographic image with the blowout port identifier superimposed on each blowout port in the photographic image.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to operation of an air conditioner. BACKGROUND

[0002] There are air conditioners in which an indoor unit has a plurality of blow-out ports. For example, ceiling cassette type indoor units mostly have a plurality of blow-out ports.

[0003] In using such an air conditioner, if the air direction and air volume, etc. are adjusted for each blow-out port, a more comfortable indoor environment is realized.

[0004] Patent Literature 1 discloses a technology for changing the operation of air direction and air volume with a terminal device such as a smartphone.

[0005] In this technology, a virtual space image corresponding to air blown from a blow-out port of an indoor unit is displayed in a screen, and the user performs an operation for changing the air direction and air volume by touching the screen.

[0006] Prior Art Documents

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-190686 SUMMARY

[0009] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0010] In Patent Literature 1, the operation of an air conditioner in which an indoor unit has one blow-out port is taken as an object, and the operation for adjusting the air direction and air volume, etc. for each blow-out port of an air conditioner in which an indoor unit has a plurality of blow-out ports is not disclosed.

[0011] An object of the present disclosure is to enable the operation for adjusting the air direction and air volume, etc. for each blow-out port of an air conditioner in which an indoor unit has a plurality of blow-out ports.

[0012] Means for Solving the Problems

[0013] The air conditioner operation terminal of the present disclosure is provided with: an image acquisition section that acquires a photographic image obtained by photographing an air conditioner indoor unit having a plurality of blow-out ports; an image comparison section that compares a template image in which an air conditioner indoor unit of the same kind as the air conditioner indoor unit is visualized, with the photographic image; a blow-out port recognition section that determines a blow-out port recognition symbol of each blow-out port in the photographic image, based on the comparison result and blow-out port recognition data that shows a blow-out port recognition symbol in correspondence with each blow-out port in the template image; and a recognition result display section that displays the photographic image with the blow-out port recognition symbol superimposed on each blow-out port in the photographic image.

[0014] Effects of the Invention

[0015] According to the present disclosure, when the indoor unit of the air conditioner is photographed, each of the plurality of blowout ports is recognized in the image obtained by the photographing. Therefore, the user can correctly specify the blowout port in which the wind direction, the wind volume, and the like are desired to be adjusted.

[0016] Therefore, it is possible to perform an operation for adjusting the wind direction, the wind volume, and the like for each blowout port with respect to an air conditioner having a plurality of blowout ports. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 is a configuration diagram of the air conditioning system 100 in Embodiment 1.

[0018] Figure 2 is a configuration diagram of the air conditioning indoor unit 110 in Embodiment 1.

[0019] Figure 3 is a configuration diagram of the air conditioning controller 120 in Embodiment 1.

[0020] Figure 4 is a configuration diagram of the air conditioning operation terminal 200 in Embodiment 1.

[0021] Figure 5 is a configuration diagram of the storage section 290 in Embodiment 1.

[0022] Figure 6 is a flowchart of the air conditioning control method in Embodiment 1.

[0023] Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of the photographed image 281 in Embodiment 1.

[0024] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of step S130 in Embodiment 1.

[0025] Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram of step S130 in Embodiment 1.

[0026] Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of the superimposed image 282 in Embodiment 1.

[0027] Figure 11 is a configuration diagram of the air conditioning operation terminal 200 in Embodiment 2.

[0028] Figure 12 is a flowchart of the air conditioning control method in Embodiment 2.

[0029] Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram of step S240 and step S250 in Embodiment 2.

[0030] Figure 14is a explanatory diagram of step S270 in Embodiment 2.

[0031] Figure 15 is a structural diagram of the air-conditioner indoor unit 110 in Embodiment 3.

[0032] Figure 16 is a structural diagram of the air-conditioner operation terminal 200 in Embodiment 3.

[0033] Figure 17 is a flowchart of the air-conditioner control method in Embodiment 3.

[0034] Figure 18 is a flowchart of the automatic setting (S310) in Embodiment 3.

[0035] Figure 19 is a structural diagram of the air-conditioner indoor unit 110 in Embodiment 4.

[0036] Figure 20 is a structural diagram of the air-conditioner controller 120 in Embodiment 5.

[0037] Figure 21 is a structural diagram of the air-conditioner operation terminal 200 in Embodiment 5.

[0038] Figure 22 is a structural diagram of the storage section 290 in Embodiment 5.

[0039] Figure 23 is a hardware structural diagram of the air-conditioner operation terminal 200 in Embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] In the embodiments and the drawings, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same elements or corresponding elements. The explanation of the elements to which the same reference numerals are assigned as the explained elements is appropriately omitted or simplified. The arrows in the drawings mainly indicate the flow of data or the flow of processing.

[0041] Embodiment 1.

[0042] Based on Figures 1 to 10 The air-conditioner system 100 is explained.

[0043] Explanation of Structure

[0044] Based on Figure 1 The structure of the air-conditioner system 100 is explained.

[0045] The air-conditioner system 100 has an air-conditioner 101 and an air-conditioner operation terminal 200.

[0046] The air-conditioner 101 has an outdoor unit, an indoor unit, and a remote controller.

[0047] The outdoor unit of the air conditioner 101 is referred to as "air conditioner outdoor unit 102".

[0048] The indoor unit of the air conditioner 101 is referred to as "air conditioner indoor unit 110".

[0049] The remote controller of the air conditioner 101 is referred to as "air conditioner controller 120".

[0050] The air conditioner controller 120 can also be either of a wired remote controller and a wireless remote controller.

[0051] The air conditioner controller 120 is connected to the air conditioner indoor unit 110 through a wire or wirelessly, and controls the air conditioner indoor unit 110.

[0052] The air conditioner operation terminal 200 is a terminal used in various operations of the air conditioner. For example, a smartphone is used as the air conditioner operation terminal 200.

[0053] The air conditioner operation terminal 200 communicates with the air conditioner 101 wirelessly. Specifically, the air conditioner operation terminal 200 communicates with the air conditioner controller 120 using Bluetooth (registered trademark). Bluetooth (registered trademark) is an example of short-range wireless communication technology.

[0054] Based on Figure 2 The structure of the air conditioner indoor unit 110 is described.

[0055] The air conditioner indoor unit 110 has a plurality of blowout ports 111. The blowout port 111 is also referred to as "vane".

[0056] The air conditioner indoor unit 110 can adjust the blowout air for each blowout port 111. Specifically, the air conditioner indoor unit 110 adjusts the air direction and the air volume, and the like for each blowout port 111.

[0057] The items (air direction and air volume, and the like) that can be adjusted for the blowout air are referred to as "adjustment items".

[0058] The specific content of the adjustment is referred to as "adjustment content". For example, the adjustment content indicates the air direction such as up and down, left and right, and the intensity of the air volume, and the like.

[0059] Based on Figure 3 The structure of the air conditioner controller 120 is described.

[0060] The air conditioner controller 120 has hardware such as a processing circuit 121, a communication device 122, and a display 123. These hardware are connected to each other via a signal line.

[0061] The processing circuit 121 is hardware that realizes an air conditioner control section 124.

[0062] The processing circuit 121 can be a dedicated hardware or a processor that executes a program stored in a memory.

[0063] In the case where the processing circuit 121 is a dedicated hardware, the processing circuit 121 is, for example, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0064] ASIC is an abbreviation for Application Specific Integrated Circuit.

[0065] FPGA is an abbreviation for Field Programmable Gate Array.

[0066] In the processing circuit 121, a part of functions can be implemented by a dedicated hardware and the remaining functions can be implemented by software or firmware.

[0067] In this way, the functions of the air conditioner controller 120 can be implemented by a hardware, a software, a firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0068] The communication device 122 is a receiver and a transmitter. For example, the communication device 122 is a communication chip or a NIC.

[0069] NIC is an abbreviation for Network Interface Card.

[0070] The display 123 is a display device. For example, the display 123 is a liquid crystal display or a touch panel display.

[0071] Based on Figure 4 The structure of the air conditioner operation terminal 200 will be described.

[0072] The air conditioner operation terminal 200 is a computer that has a processor 201, a memory 202, an auxiliary storage device 203, a communication device 204, a camera 205, and a display 206. These hardware are connected to each other through a signal line.

[0073] The processor 201 is an IC that performs arithmetic processing and controls other hardware. For example, the processor 201 is a CPU, a DSP, or a GPU.

[0074] IC is an abbreviation for Integrated Circuit.

[0075] CPU is an abbreviation for Central Processing Unit.

[0076] DSP is an abbreviation for Digital Signal Processor.

[0077] GPU is an abbreviation for Graphics Processing Unit.

[0078] The memory 202 is a volatile or nonvolatile storage device. The memory 202 is also referred to as a main storage device or a main memory. For example, the memory 202 is a RAM. Data stored in the memory 202 is saved in the auxiliary storage device 203 as necessary.

[0079] RAM is an abbreviation for Random Access Memory.

[0080] The auxiliary storage device 203 is a nonvolatile storage device. For example, the auxiliary storage device 203 is a ROM, an HDD, or a flash memory. Data stored in the auxiliary storage device 203 is loaded into the memory 202 as necessary.

[0081] ROM is an abbreviation for Read Only Memory.

[0082] HDD is an abbreviation for Hard Disk Drive.

[0083] The communication device 204 is a receiver and a transmitter. For example, the communication device 204 is a communication chip or a NIC.

[0084] The camera 205 is an imaging device.

[0085] The display 206 is a display device. For example, the display 206 is a touch panel display.

[0086] The air-conditioner operation terminal 200 has elements such as an image acquisition section 211, an image collation section 212, an outlet identification section 213, and an identification result display section 214. These elements are implemented by software.

[0087] In the auxiliary storage device 203, an air-conditioner operation program for causing a computer to function as the image acquisition section 211, the image collation section 212, the outlet identification section 213, and the identification result display section 214 is stored. The air-conditioner operation program is loaded into the memory 202 and executed by the processor 201.

[0088] In the auxiliary storage device 203, an OS is also stored. At least a part of the OS is loaded into the memory 202 and executed by the processor 201.

[0089] The processor 201 executes the OS while executing the air-conditioning operation program.

[0090] OS is an abbreviation of Operating System.

[0091] Input and output data of the air-conditioning operation program are stored in the storage section 290.

[0092] The memory 202 functions as the storage section 290. However, a storage device such as the auxiliary storage device 203, a register in the processor 201, and a cache memory in the processor 201 can function as the storage section 290 instead of or in addition to the memory 202.

[0093] The air-conditioning operation terminal 200 can also have a plurality of processors instead of the processor 201.

[0094] The air-conditioning operation program can be recorded (stored) in a nonvolatile recording medium such as an optical disk or a flash memory in a manner that is readable by a computer.

[0095] Based on Figure 5 The structure of the storage section 290 will be described.

[0096] The storage section 290 stores data such as the template image 291 and the blowout port identification data 292.

[0097] The template image 291 is an image that represents an air-conditioning indoor unit of the same kind as the air-conditioning indoor unit 110 and serves as a template for the image of the air-conditioning indoor unit 110. The air-conditioning indoor unit represented in the template image 291 can be the air-conditioning indoor unit 110 or a different body from the air-conditioning indoor unit 110.

[0098] The blowout port identification data 292 shows blowout port identifiers corresponding to each blowout port 111 in the template image 291.

[0099] For example, in the blowout port identification data 292, the positions of each blowout port 111 in the template image 291 and the blowout port identifiers of each blowout port 111 correspond to each other.

[0100] The blowout port identifier identifies the blowout port 111. A specific example of the blowout port identifier is "blade number".

[0101] * * * Explanation of Actions * * *

[0102] The steps of the actions of the air-conditioning operation terminal 200 correspond to the air-conditioning operation method. In addition, the steps of the actions of the air-conditioning operation terminal 200 correspond to the steps of the processing based on the air-conditioning operation program.

[0103] The steps of the operation of the air-conditioner operation terminal 200 and the air-conditioner controller 120 correspond to the air-conditioner control method.

[0104] Based on Figure 6 The air-conditioner control method will be described.

[0105] In step S110, the user operates the camera 205 of the air-conditioner operation terminal 200 to take a picture of the air-conditioner indoor unit 110.

[0106] The camera 205 takes a picture of the air-conditioner indoor unit 110 according to the user's operation and outputs an image. The image obtained by the picture taking is referred to as "photographed image 281".

[0107] The image acquisition section 211 acquires the photographed image 281 from the camera 205 and stores the photographed image 281 in the storage section 290.

[0108] Based on Figure 7 The photographed image 281 will be described in detail.

[0109] The photographed image 281 is displayed in the display 206 of the air-conditioner operation terminal 200.

[0110] The air-conditioner indoor unit 110 is reflected in the photographed image 281. The air-conditioner indoor unit 110 has four blowout ports (111A to 111D). That is, in the photographed image 281, the four blowout ports (111A to 111D) of the air-conditioner indoor unit 110 are reflected.

[0111] Returning to Figure 6 The description will be continued from step S120.

[0112] In step S120, the image comparison section 212 compares the photographed image 281 with the template image 291. In the comparison, various image matching techniques can be used.

[0113] For example, the comparison is performed as follows.

[0114] Template feature data is stored in advance in the storage section 290. The template feature data indicates the feature amount of each pixel of the template image 291.

[0115] First, the image comparison section 212 calculates the feature amount for each pixel of the photographed image 281.

[0116] Then, the image comparison section 212 compares the photographed image 281 with the template image 291 based on the feature amount of each pixel of the photographed image 281 and the feature amount of each pixel of the template image 291.

[0117] The feature amount can be calculated by techniques such as A-KAZE, ORB, or HOG.

[0118] A-KAZE is an abbreviation for Accelerated-KAZE.

[0119] ORB is an abbreviation for Oriented FAST and Rotated BRIEF.

[0120] HOG is an abbreviation for Histograms of Oriented Gradients.

[0121] By collation, a rotation angle for aligning the direction of the air-conditioner indoor unit 110 in the photographed image 281 with the direction of the air-conditioner indoor unit 110 in the template image 291 is calculated.

[0122] The calculated rotation angle is referred to as a "correction angle".

[0123] In step S130, the blowout port identifying section 213 determines the blowout port identifier of each blowout port 111 in the photographed image 281 on the basis of the collation result and the blowout port identifying data 292.

[0124] The blowout port identifier of each blowout port 111 in the photographed image 281 is determined as follows.

[0125] First, the blowout port identifying section 213 calculates the arrangement of the plurality of blowout ports 111 in the photographed image 281 in the case where the photographed image 281 is rotated by the correction angle.

[0126] Next, the blowout port identifying section 213 selects, from the plurality of blowout ports 111 in the template image 291, a blowout port 111 that corresponds to the position of each blowout port 111 in the rotated photographed image 281. The selected blowout port 111 is referred to as a "corresponding blowout port".

[0127] Then, the blowout port identifying section 213 extracts, from the blowout port identifying data 292, the blowout port identifier corresponding to the corresponding blowout port for each blowout port 111 in the photographed image 281.

[0128] Based on Figure 8 and Figure 9 , a specific example of step S130 is described.

[0129] The air-conditioner indoor unit 110P (refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 ) is the air-conditioner indoor unit 110 in the photographed image 281.

[0130] The air-conditioner indoor unit 110T (refer to Figure 9) is the air-conditioner indoor unit 110 in the template image 291. The numbers (numbers enclosed by dotted-line frames) labeled on the respective blow-out ports 111 of the air-conditioner indoor unit 110T are blow-out port identifiers. The blow-out port identifier of the blow-out port 111 on the upper side is "1", the blow-out port identifier of the blow-out port 111 on the right side is "2", the blow-out port identifier of the blow-out port 111 on the lower side is "3", and the blow-out port identifier of the blow-out port 111 on the left side is "4".

[0131] In Figure 8 , the air-conditioner indoor unit 110P is rotated by the correction angle.

[0132] In Figure 9 , the blow-out port identifiers of the respective blow-out ports 111 of the air-conditioner indoor unit 110P are determined by comparing the arrangement of the plurality of blow-out ports (111A to 111D) in the rotated air-conditioner indoor unit 110P with the arrangement of the plurality of blow-out ports 111 in the air-conditioner indoor unit 110T.

[0133] Since the blow-out port 111A is on the upper side, the blow-out port identifier of the blow-out port 111A is "1".

[0134] Since the blow-out port 111B is on the right side, the blow-out port identifier of the blow-out port 111B is "2".

[0135] Since the blow-out port 111C is on the lower side, the blow-out port identifier of the blow-out port 111C is "3".

[0136] Since the blow-out port 111D is on the left side, the blow-out port identifier of the blow-out port 111D is "4".

[0137] Returning to Figure 6 , the description will be continued from step S140.

[0138] In step S140, the recognition result display section 214 displays the photographing image 281 in the display 206 with the blow-out port identifiers superimposed on the respective blow-out ports 111.

[0139] The photographing image 281 with the blow-out port identifiers superimposed on the respective blow-out ports 111 is referred to as "superimposed image 282".

[0140] Based on Figure 10 , a specific example of the superimposed image 282 will be described. The numbers enclosed by solid-line frames are blow-out port identifiers.

[0141] The superimposed image 282 is displayed in the display 206 of the air-conditioner operation terminal 200.

[0142] The air-conditioner indoor unit 110 is displayed in the superimposed image 282. Each blow-out port 111 in the superimposed image 282 is superimposed with a blow-out port identifier.

[0143] The blow-out port 111A is superimposed with the blow-out port identifier "1".

[0144] The blow-out port 111B is superimposed with the blow-out port identifier "2".

[0145] The blow-out port 111C is superimposed with the blow-out port identifier "3".

[0146] The blow-out port 111D is superimposed with the blow-out port identifier "4".

[0147] Returning to Figure 6 The explanation will be continued from step S150.

[0148] In step S150, the user observes the superimposed image 282 and confirms the blow-out port identifier of the blow-out port 111 whose blow-out air is intended to be adjusted. The confirmed blow-out port identifier is referred to as an "object identifier".

[0149] Then, the user specifies the object identifier and the adjustment content to the air-conditioner controller 120 by operating the air-conditioner controller 120.

[0150] The air-conditioner control section 124 of the air-conditioner controller 120 receives the object identifier and the adjustment content.

[0151] In step S160, the air-conditioner control section 124 sets the adjustment content for the blow-out port 111 (object blow-out port) identified by the object identifier to the air-conditioner indoor unit 110 by communicating with the air-conditioner indoor unit 110.

[0152] The air-conditioner indoor unit 110 adjusts the blow-out air of the object blow-out port in accordance with the set adjustment content.

[0153] Effects of Embodiment 1

[0154] The air-conditioner operation terminal 200 can recognize each of the plurality of blow-out ports 111 in the photographic image 281 when the air-conditioner indoor unit 110 is photographed, display a superimposed image 282 in which a blow-out port identifier is superimposed on each blow-out port 111.

[0155] Therefore, the user can correctly specify the blow-out port 111 whose air direction and air volume and the like are intended to be adjusted by confirming the superimposed image 282.

[0156] Therefore, it is possible to perform an operation for adjusting the air direction and air volume and the like for each blow-out port 111 with respect to the air-conditioner indoor unit 110 having a plurality of blow-out ports 111.

[0157] Embodiment 2.

[0158] The manner in which the user operates the air-conditioning operation terminal 200 to specify the blowout port 111 and the adjustment content is mainly based on Figures 11 to 14 The differences from Embodiment 1 will be described.

[0159] *Description of Configuration

[0160] The configuration of the air-conditioning system 100 is the same as that in Embodiment 1.

[0161] However, the configuration of the air-conditioning operation terminal 200 is partly different from that in Embodiment 1.

[0162] Based on Figure 11 The configuration of the air-conditioning operation terminal 200 will be described.

[0163] The air-conditioning operation terminal 200 further has an operation reception unit 215.

[0164] The air-conditioning operation program also causes the computer to function as the operation reception unit 215.

[0165] *Description of Operation

[0166] Based on Figure 12 The air-conditioning control method will be described.

[0167] Steps S210 to S240 are the same as Steps S110 to S140 in Embodiment 1.

[0168] By Step S240, for example, the superimposed image 282 shown in FIG. 12 is displayed on the display 206 of the air-conditioning operation terminal 200. Figure 10

[0169] In the superimposed image 282, the blowout port identifier (numbered by a solid-line frame) overlapping each blowout port 111 is used as a blowout port specification interface.

[0170] The blowout port specification interface is a graphical user interface (GUI) for specifying a target blowout port.

[0171] The target blowout port is the blowout port 111 that becomes an adjustment target of the blowout air.

[0172] The blowout port identifier of the target blowout port is called a "target identifier".

[0173] In Step S250, the user specifies the target identifier by touching the blowout port identifier (target identifier) overlapping the target blowout port in the superimposed image 282.

[0174] ​The operation accepting section 215 accepts the specified object identifier. Specifically, the operation accepting section 215 detects a touch operation and determines the blow port identifier (object identifier) overlapping the touched portion.

[0175] However, it is also possible that the object identifier is input to the air conditioner operation terminal 200 by the user operating the input keys, and the operation accepting section 215 accepts the input object identifier.

[0176] In step S260, the operation accepting section 215 displays the photographed image 281 with the adjustment interface superimposed on the object blow port in the photographed image 281.

[0177] The photographed image 281 can be either of a photographed image 281 in which each blow port 111 does not overlap the blow port identifier and a photographed image 281 in which each blow port 111 overlaps the blow port identifier (superimposed image 282).

[0178] Based on Figure 13 Examples of steps S240 and S250 will be described.

[0179] The user touches the blow port identifier "3" overlapping the blow port 111C in the superimposed image 282.

[0180] The operation accepting section 215 detects the touch operation on the blow port identifier "3" and displays the adjustment interface overlapping the blow port 111C.

[0181] The adjustment interface is a GUI for specifying four wind directions (up, down, left, and right) and three modes of air volume (zero, weak, and strong).

[0182] Returning to Figure 12 The description will continue from step S270.

[0183] In step S270, the user specifies the adjustment content using the adjustment interface in the superimposed image 282.

[0184] The operation accepting section 215 accepts the specified adjustment content. Specifically, the operation accepting section 215 detects the operation on the adjustment interface and determines the adjustment content based on the detected operation.

[0185] Based on Figure 14 Examples of step S270 will be described.

[0186] The user specifies the adjustment content of "weak" air volume downward and "strong" air volume to the right by touching the adjustment interface in the superimposed image 282.

[0187] The operation receiving unit 215 detects touch operations on the adjustment interface in the overlay image 282 and determines the specified adjustment content.

[0188] return Figure 12 Step S280 will be explained below.

[0189] In step S280, the operation receiving unit 215 sends an object identifier and adjustment content to the air conditioning controller 120.

[0190] The air conditioning control unit 124 of the air conditioning controller 120 receives the object identifier and the adjustment content.

[0191] Then, the air conditioning control unit 124 communicates with the air conditioning indoor unit 110 to set adjustment content for the air outlet 111 (object air outlet) identified by the object identifier.

[0192] The indoor unit 110 of the air conditioner adjusts the airflow from the target outlet according to the set adjustment settings.

[0193] ***Effects of Implementation Method 2***

[0194] Users can adjust the airflow from the air outlet using the air conditioning control terminal 200 instead of the air conditioning controller 120.

[0195] Implementation method 3.

[0196] The method for automatically generating the blowout identification data 292 is mainly based on Figures 15 to 18 To illustrate the differences from implementation method 2.

[0197] ***Structure Explanation***

[0198] The structure of the air conditioning system 100 is the same as that in embodiment 2.

[0199] However, the structures of the air conditioner indoor unit 110 and the air conditioner operation terminal 200 are partially different from those in embodiment 2.

[0200] based on Figure 15 The structure of the indoor unit 110 of the air conditioner will be explained.

[0201] The indoor unit 110 of the air conditioner has an extension component 112.

[0202] The extension component 112 is a component installed in the indoor unit 110 of the air conditioner. For example, the extension component 112 is a component equipped with a human detection sensor and a temperature sensor.

[0203] The indoor unit 110 of the air conditioner has a storage section (e.g., a memory) in which positional relationship data 119 is stored.

[0204] The positional relationship data 119 indicates the positional relationship of the extension member 112 with respect to each blowout port 111 and the blowout port identifier of each blowout port 111.

[0205] The blowout port identifier of each blowout port 111 can be set by operating a dial switch of the air-conditioner indoor unit 110.

[0206] Based on Figure 16 The structure of the air-conditioner operation terminal 200 will be described.

[0207] The air-conditioner operation terminal 200 further has an automatic setting section 216.

[0208] The air-conditioner operation program also causes the computer to function as the automatic setting section 216.

[0209] * * * Explanation of Actions * * *

[0210] Based on Figure 17 The air-conditioner control method will be described.

[0211] Steps S320 to S390 are the same as steps S210 to S280 in Embodiment 2.

[0212] In step S310, the automatic setting section 216 generates blowout port identification data 292.

[0213] Specifically, the automatic setting section 216 acquires the positional relationship data 119 by communicating with the air-conditioner 101. Then, the automatic setting section 216 generates the blowout port identification data 292 based on the positional relationship data 119 and the positional relationship of the extension member 112 with respect to each blowout port 111 in the template image 291.

[0214] Then, the automatic setting section 216 stores the blowout port identification data 292 in the storage section 290.

[0215] Based on Figure 18 The steps of the automatic setting (S310) will be described.

[0216] In step S311, the automatic setting section 216 acquires the positional relationship data 119 from the air-conditioner indoor unit 110 via the air-conditioner controller 120 by communicating with the air-conditioner controller 120.

[0217] In step S312, the automatic setting section 216 detects the plurality of blowout ports 111 and the extension member 112 in the template image 291 by image processing with respect to the template image 291.

[0218] In step S313, the automatic setting section 216 extracts, from the positional relationship data 119, a blowout port identifier corresponding to the positional relationship with the extension member 112, for each blowout port 111 in the template image 291.

[0219] In step S314, the automatic setting section 216 generates blowout port identification data 292 using the blowout port identifiers of the respective blowout ports 111 in the template image 291.

[0220] Then, the automatic setting section 216 stores the blowout port identification data 292 in the storage section 290.

[0221] * * * Explanation of Embodiments * * *

[0222] Embodiment 3 can also be implemented in combination with Embodiment 1. That is, the air-conditioner operation terminal 200 can also not be provided with the operation accepting section 215.

[0223] * * * Effects of Embodiment 3 * * *

[0224] The air-conditioner operation terminal 200 is able to automatically generate the blowout port identification data 292. Therefore, the user saves time and effort for preparing the blowout port identification data 292, and thus the convenience is improved.

[0225] By the presence of the extension member 112, the accuracy of the comparison of the photographed image 281 and the template image 291 is improved.

[0226] Embodiment 4.

[0227] Regarding the means for improving the accuracy of the comparison of the photographed image 281 and the template image 291, the differences from Embodiments 1 to 3 will be mainly explained based on Figure 19

[0228] * * * Explanation of Configuration * * *

[0229] The configuration of the air-conditioning system 100 is the same as that in Embodiment 2.

[0230] However, the configuration of the air-conditioner indoor unit 110 is partly different from that in Embodiment 2.

[0231] Based on Figure 19 , the configuration of the air-conditioner indoor unit 110 will be explained.

[0232] The air-conditioner indoor unit 110 has an identification mark 113.

[0233] The identification mark 113 is provided in the vicinity of a specific blowout port 111, and identifies the specific blowout port 111. For example, the identification mark 113 is a notch provided in the edge on the side where the specific blowout port 111 is arranged. ​

[0234] Explanation of Action

[0235] The air conditioner control method of Embodiment 4 is the same as the method in Embodiment 2 (refer to Figure 12 ).

[0236] Explanation of Embodiment

[0237] Embodiment 4 can also be implemented in combination with Embodiment 1. That is, the air conditioner operation terminal 200 can also not be provided with the operation reception section 215.

[0238] Embodiment 4 can also be implemented in combination with Embodiment 3. That is, the air conditioner indoor unit 110 can also have the extension member 112. The air conditioner indoor unit 110 can also store the positional relationship data 119. In addition, the air conditioner operation terminal 200 can also be provided with the automatic setting section 216.

[0239] Effects of Embodiment 4

[0240] By recognizing the presence of the marker 113, the accuracy of the collation of the photographed image 281 and the template image 291 is improved.

[0241] Embodiment 5

[0242] Regarding the manner of changing the adjustment interface according to the kind of the air conditioner indoor unit 110, the differences from Embodiment 2 are mainly explained based on Figures 20 to 22 .

[0243] Explanation of Structure

[0244] The structure of the air conditioner system 100 is the same as that in Embodiment 2.

[0245] However, the structure of the air conditioner controller 120 and the air conditioner operation terminal 200 is partly different from that in Embodiment 2.

[0246] Based on Figure 20 , the structure of the air conditioner controller 120 is explained.

[0247] The processing circuit 121 is provided with a storage section (for example, a memory), and the model information data 125 is stored in the storage section of the processing circuit 121.

[0248] The model information data 125 indicates the kind (model) of the air conditioner 101.

[0249] Based on Figure 21 , the structure of the air conditioner operation terminal 200 is explained.

[0250] The air conditioner operation terminal 200 is also provided with the interface selection section 217.

[0251] The air conditioner operation program also causes the computer to function as the interface selection section 217.

[0252] Based on Figure 22 The structure of the storage section 290 will be described.

[0253] The adjustment interface data 293 is also stored in the storage section 290.

[0254] The adjustment interface data 293 indicates adjustment interfaces of different models.

[0255] The adjustment items differ depending on the model, and therefore the adjustment interfaces also differ depending on the model.

[0256] For example, there are two types of air conditioners. One type of air conditioner can adjust both the air direction and the air volume, but the other type of air conditioner can only adjust the air volume.

[0257] In addition, there are other two types of air conditioners. One type of air conditioner can adjust the air direction in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction, respectively, but the other type of air conditioner can only adjust the air direction in the vertical direction.

[0258] * * * Explanation of Action * * *

[0259] The air conditioner control method is the same as the method in Embodiment 2 (refer to Figure 12 ).

[0260] However, the processing of step S260 differs in part from the processing in Embodiment 2.

[0261] In step S260, the interface selection section 217 acquires the model information data 125 by communicating with the air conditioner controller 120.

[0262] Next, the interface selection section 217 selects the adjustment interface corresponding to the model indicated by the model information data 125 from the adjustment interface data 293.

[0263] Then, the operation reception section 215 causes the selected adjustment interface to be superimposed on the object outlet in the photographed image 281, and displays the photographed image 281 on the display 206.

[0264] * * * Explanation of Embodiment * * *

[0265] Embodiment 5 can also be implemented in combination with Embodiment 3. That is, the air conditioner indoor unit 110 can also have the extension member 112. The air conditioner indoor unit 110 can also store the positional relationship data 119. In addition, the air conditioner operation terminal 200 can also be provided with the automatic setting section 216.

[0266] Embodiment 5 can also be implemented in combination with Embodiment 4. That is, the air conditioner indoor unit 110 can also have the identification mark 113.

[0267] Effects of Embodiment 5

[0268] The air-conditioner operation terminal 200 can change the adjustment interface according to the type of the air-conditioner indoor unit 110.

[0269] Supplement to Embodiment

[0270] Based on Figure 23 The hardware structure of the air-conditioner operation terminal 200 will be described.

[0271] The air-conditioner operation terminal 200 has a processing circuit 209.

[0272] The processing circuit 209 is hardware that realizes the image acquisition section 211, the image comparison section 212, the blowout port identification section 213, the identification result display section 214, the operation reception section 215, the automatic setting section 216, and the interface selection section 217.

[0273] The processing circuit 209 can be a dedicated hardware or a processor 201 that executes a program stored in a memory 202.

[0274] In the case where the processing circuit 209 is a dedicated hardware, the processing circuit 209 is, for example, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0275] The air-conditioner operation terminal 200 can also have a plurality of processing circuits instead of the processing circuit 209.

[0276] In the processing circuit 209, a part of the functions can be realized by a dedicated hardware and the remaining functions can be realized by software or firmware.

[0277] In this way, the functions of the air-conditioner operation terminal 200 can be realized by hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0278] The embodiments are examples of preferred modes and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present disclosure. The embodiments can be partially implemented or implemented in combination with other modes. The steps described using the flowcharts and the like can also be appropriately changed.

[0279] The "section" as an element of the air-conditioner operation terminal 200 can also be changed to "process" or "step".

[0280] Explanation of Reference Signs

[0281] 100 air conditioning system, 101 air conditioner, 102 air conditioner outdoor unit, 110 air conditioner indoor unit, 111 blowout port, 112 extension member, 113 identification mark, 119 positional relationship data, 120 air conditioner controller, 121 processing circuitry, 122 communication device, 123 display, 124 air conditioner control section, 125 model information data, 200 air conditioner operation terminal, 201 processor, 202 memory, 203 auxiliary storage device, 204 communication device, 205 camera, 206 display, 209 processing circuitry, 211 image acquisition section, 212 image comparison section, 213 blowout port identification section, 214 identification result display section, 215 operation reception section, 216 automatic setting section, 217 interface selection section, 281 photographed image, 282 superimposed image, 290 storage section, 291 template image, 292 blowout port identification data, 293 adjustment interface data.

Claims

1. An air conditioning control terminal, wherein, The air conditioning operation terminal includes: The image acquisition unit acquires photographic images obtained by photographing an indoor air conditioning unit with multiple air outlets; An image comparison unit compares a template image with the photographic image, wherein the template image reflects an indoor air conditioner of the same type as the indoor air conditioner unit. The blow-out identification unit determines the blow-out identification of each blow-out in the photographic image based on the comparison results and the blow-out identification data that shows the blow-out identification corresponding to each blow-out in the template image. The recognition result display unit displays the photographic image by overlaying the blowhole identifier onto each blowhole in the photographic image; as well as Automatic setting unit, The indoor unit of the air conditioner has an extension component. The air conditioner has stored location relationship data for the indoor unit, which shows the positional relationship between the extended component and each air outlet, as well as the air outlet identifier for each air outlet. The automatic setting unit obtains the positional relationship data by communicating with the air conditioner, and generates the air outlet identification data based on the positional relationship data and the positional relationship between the extended component and each air outlet in the template image.

2. The air conditioning operation terminal according to claim 1, wherein, The image comparison unit calculates a correction angle as the comparison result. This correction angle is a rotation angle used to align the direction of the indoor air conditioner unit in the photographic image with the direction of the indoor air conditioner unit in the template image. The blow-out identification unit extracts the blow-out identification character from the blow-out identification data, which corresponds to the position of each blow-out in the photographic image when the photographic image is rotated by the correction angle, thereby determining the blow-out identification character of each blow-out in the photographic image.

3. The air conditioning operation terminal according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The air conditioning operation terminal has an operation receiving unit, which receives the outlet identifier of the object air outlet, i.e., the object identifier, and displays the image by overlaying the adjustment interface on the object air outlet in the photographed image. The operation receiving unit accepts the adjustment content specified by using the adjustment interface, wherein the object air outlet is the air outlet that becomes the object of the air blowing adjustment, and the adjustment interface is a graphical user interface for specifying the air blowing adjustment content.

4. A computer-readable recording medium recording an air conditioner operating procedure, said air conditioner operating procedure being used to enable a computer to function as a component: The image acquisition unit acquires photographic images obtained by photographing an indoor air conditioning unit with multiple air outlets; An image comparison unit compares a template image with the photographic image, wherein the template image reflects an indoor air conditioner of the same type as the indoor air conditioner unit. The blow-out identification unit determines the blow-out identification of each blow-out in the photographic image based on the comparison results and the blow-out identification data that shows the blow-out identification corresponding to each blow-out in the template image. The identification result display unit displays the photographic image by overlaying the blowhole identifier onto each blowhole in the photographic image; and Automatic setting unit, The indoor unit of the air conditioner has an extension component. The air conditioner has stored location relationship data for the indoor unit, which shows the positional relationship between the extended component and each air outlet, as well as the air outlet identifier for each air outlet. The automatic setting unit obtains the positional relationship data by communicating with the air conditioner, and generates the air outlet identification data based on the positional relationship data and the positional relationship between the extended component and each air outlet in the template image.

5. An air conditioning system, wherein, The air conditioning system includes an air conditioner with an indoor unit and an air conditioning control terminal. The indoor unit of the air conditioner has multiple air outlets and extension components. The air conditioner stores positional relationship data, which shows the positional relationship between the extended component and each air outlet, as well as the air outlet identifier for each air outlet. The air conditioning operation terminal includes: The image acquisition unit acquires photographic images obtained by photographing the indoor unit of the air conditioner; An image comparison unit compares a template image with the photographic image, wherein the template image reflects an indoor air conditioner of the same type as the indoor air conditioner unit. The blow-out identification unit determines the blow-out identification of each blow-out in the photographic image based on the comparison results and the blow-out identification data that shows the blow-out identification corresponding to each blow-out in the template image. The recognition result display unit displays the photographic image by overlaying the blowhole identifier onto each blowhole in the photographic image; as well as An automatic setting unit obtains the positional relationship data by communicating with the air conditioner, and generates the air outlet identification data based on the positional relationship data and the positional relationship between the extended component and each air outlet in the template image.

Images