Information processing device

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention relate to an information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to the embodiments includes a collection unit and a aggregation unit. The collection unit collects input information based on the date and time and air conditioner information contained in the input information. The input information includes location information indicating the user's location, temperature / coolness information indicating the user's temperature / coolness perception, and the date and time on which the location information and temperature / coolness perception information are input to a terminal device. The air conditioner information includes the air conditioner's setpoint and the date and time on which the air conditioner was controlled to operate based on the setpoint. The aggregation unit aggregates the temperature / coolness perception information based on the location information included in the collected input information, divided into zones according to the indoor area where the air conditioner is installed.

Description

[0001] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application 2021-146936 (filed on September 9, 2021), and enjoys priority under that application. The entire contents of that application are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate to information processing apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] Generally, air conditioners (indoor units) are installed in indoor spaces such as offices. The operation of these air conditioners is controlled by users (indoor occupants) using remote controls or similar devices.

[0004] Therefore, for example, if a user feels that the indoor comfort level is low, the user can operate the remote control to change the set temperature of the air conditioner.

[0005] In addition, it is common for multiple users to use the same air conditioner, and each of these users has different temperature sensations (feeling hot or cold). Therefore, it is difficult to improve the comfort of multiple users by operating a single remote control.

[0006] In response, for example, the use of terminal devices such as smartphones used by multiple users as remote controls has been considered. However, there are cases where the information related to air conditioning (air conditioning) input into the terminal device is not fully and effectively utilized. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an information processing apparatus capable of effectively utilizing air conditioning-related information input to the terminal devices used by multiple users.

[0008] The information processing apparatus involved in the implementation includes a collection unit and a aggregation (statistics, aggregation) unit. The collection unit collects the input information based on the date, time, and air conditioner information contained in the input information. The input information includes location information indicating the indoor location of a user using the terminal device, temperature / coolness information indicating the user's temperature / coolness sensation at that location, and the date and time when the location information and the temperature / coolness sensation information were input to the terminal device. The air conditioner information includes the air conditioner's setpoint and the date and time when the air conditioner's operation was controlled based on the setpoint. The aggregation unit aggregates the temperature / coolness sensation information contained in the input information based on the location information included in the collected input information, according to each zone (partition, area) obtained by dividing the indoor space. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a diagram used to illustrate an example of the configuration of the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the input screen used to input location and temperature / coolness information.

[0011] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the input screen used to input location and temperature / coolness information.

[0012] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates the input screen used to input location and temperature / coolness information.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of how an interior space can be divided into multiple zones.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of a totalizing device.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a combined device.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing steps of the aggregation device.

[0017] Figure 9 It is a conceptual representation of the temperature and coolness information calculated by zone.

[0018] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing steps of the aggregation device involved in a variation of this embodiment.

[0019] Figure 11 It is a diagram used to illustrate the perimeter zone and the interior zone.

[0020] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing steps of the aggregation device according to the second embodiment.

[0021] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing an example of temperature and coolness information before and after the date and time of the first operation control.

[0022] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing an example of temperature and coolness information before and after the date and time of the second operation control.

[0023] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of the totalizing device according to the third embodiment.

[0024] Label Explanation

[0025] 1. Indoor unit; 10. Air conditioner; 20. Terminal device; 21. Display processing unit; 22. Location information input unit; 23. Temperature and coldness information input unit; 30. Aggregator (information processing device); 31. Indoor information storage unit (first storage unit); 32. Input information storage unit (second storage unit); 33. Air conditioner information storage unit (third storage unit); 34. Zone information storage unit; 35. Collection unit; 36. Aggregator; 37. Analysis unit (analysis unit, judgment unit); 38. Adjustment unit; 40. Central control device; 301. CPU; 302. Non-volatile memory; 303. Main memory; 304. Communication equipment. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Hereinafter, each embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0027] (First Embodiment)

[0028] First, refer to Figure 1 An example of the configuration of the air conditioning system (information processing system) according to the first embodiment will be described. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the air conditioning system includes an air conditioner 10, a terminal device 20, a total device 30, and a central control device (air conditioning control system) 40.

[0029] An air conditioner (indoor unit) 10 is installed in the room 1. In addition, in this embodiment, the room 1 where the air conditioner 10 is installed is assumed to be a room in a building, but it can be any area within the facility, such as a space divided by the floor and the inner wall.

[0030] Terminal device 20 serves as an input device (temperature / coolness sensing input device) for inputting information related to air conditioning, and is used by the user (indoor occupant) in room 1. Terminal device 20 may be a portable terminal such as a smartphone or tablet, but it can also be a desktop or laptop computer, an input device used in a BEMS (Building Energy Management System), or a dedicated remote controller. Furthermore, in Figure 1 For convenience, only one terminal device 20 is shown in this embodiment, but the air conditioning system involved in this embodiment has multiple terminal devices 20 used by multiple users in the room 1.

[0031] In this embodiment, the terminal device 20 includes a display processing unit 21, a location information input unit 22, and a temperature and coldness information input unit 23.

[0032] The display processing unit 21 displays an input screen containing a floor map (layout) of interior 1 on the terminal device 20, for example. Furthermore, information about the floor map of interior 1 contained in the input screen (information used to display the floor map) is, for example, pre-stored in the storage unit (not shown) of the terminal device 20.

[0033] The location information input unit 22 inputs location information indicating the user's location in the room 1 based on the user's operation on the input screen displayed by the display processing unit 21.

[0034] The temperature and coolness information input unit 23 inputs temperature and coolness information (body sensation information indicating the user's perceived air conditioning state) based on the user's operation on the input screen displayed by the display processing unit 21.

[0035] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the aforementioned location information and temperature / coolness information are input to the terminal device 20 via an input screen (GUI: Graphical User Interface). Hereinafter, an example of this input screen will be described. The terminal device 20 will be described as a smartphone.

[0036] First, the terminal device 20 (display processing unit 21) displays the user's operation (e.g., launching a predetermined application). Figure 2 The input screen shown is 20a. (As shown in the image) Figure 2 As shown, the input screen 20a contains a map (floor plan) showing the layout of the indoor unit 1 where the air conditioner 10 is installed.

[0037] Here, the user can specify (e.g., touch) their location within room 1 on the floor plan included in the input screen 20a. When the user specifies the location, Figure 2 The input screen 20a shown transforms into Figure 3 The input screen 20b shown is used to input location information representing the location into the terminal device 20 (location information input unit 22).

[0038] exist Figure 3 In the input screen 20b shown, the position of icon 201 indicates the user's position as specified by the user. Additionally, a temperature / coolness selection area 202 is provided next to icon 201 in the input screen 20b.

[0039] The temperature / coolness selection area 202 is displayed as a pop-up window, and multiple icons 202a to 202e representing various temperature / coolness settings are configured in this temperature / coolness selection area 202, which can be selected by the user.

[0040] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the temperature or coolness that the user can select corresponds to the level of comfort that the user feels, such as the feeling of feeling "hot" or "cold" in room 1.

[0041] Specifically, in Figure 3 In the examples shown, icon 202a represents the lukewarm feeling of "too hot" (strong dissatisfaction). Icon 202b represents the lukewarm feeling of "hot" (mild dissatisfaction). Icon 202c represents the lukewarm feeling of "comfortable" (no dissatisfaction). Icon 202d represents the lukewarm feeling of "cold" (mild dissatisfaction). Icon 202e represents the lukewarm feeling of "too cold" (strong dissatisfaction).

[0042] Furthermore, in this embodiment, icon 202a (representing a warm or cold sensation) is an icon indicating a greater degree of heat compared to icon 202b. Additionally, icon 202e (representing a warm or cold sensation) is an icon indicating a greater degree of cold compared to icon 202d.

[0043] When this input screen 20b is displayed on the terminal device 20, the user can select (touch) one of multiple icons 202a to 202e within the temperature / coolness selection area 202. If the user selects an icon... Figure 3 The input screen 20b shown transforms into Figure 4 The input screen 20c is shown, and the terminal device 20 (temperature and coolness information input unit 23) inputs temperature and coolness information corresponding to the selected icon.

[0044] also, Figure 4 Indicates when the user is Figure 3 The example shown is the screen displayed when icon 202d is selected in the temperature / coolness selection area 202 of the input screen 20b. Figure 4 In the input screen 20c shown, an icon 203 identical to the icon 202d selected in the input screen 20b (temperature / coolness selection area 202) is displayed at the location specified by the user in the input screen 20a. Based on this input screen 20c, the user can confirm the location specified by the user and the temperature / coolness selected by the user. Furthermore, the input screen 20c can also be a GUI screen that allows modification of the user-specified location and the icon selected by the user (i.e., the temperature / coolness).

[0045] In this embodiment, the user can input their location (location information) and the temperature sensation at that location (temperature sensation information) to the terminal device 20 via the aforementioned input screen (GUI). The location information and temperature sensation information input to the terminal device 20 are then sent from the terminal device 20 to the aggregation device 30 and the central control device 40 as input information.

[0046] Furthermore, the input screen described here for inputting the user's location and temperature / coolness is just one example; the terminal device 20 only needs to be configured to input the user's location and temperature / coolness.

[0047] The totalizer 30 is communicatively connected to the air conditioner 10 and the terminal device 20. The totalizer 30, for example, collects and aggregates various air conditioning-related information sent from the air conditioner 10 and the terminal device 20. Details regarding the totalizer 30 will be provided later.

[0048] The central control unit 40 receives the location information and temperature / coolness sensing information (input information) sent from the terminal device 20 as described above, and determines (generates) the setpoints of the air conditioner 10 based on the location information and temperature / coolness sensing information. The central control unit 40 controls the operation of the air conditioner 10 based on the determined setpoints of the air conditioner 10.

[0049] Furthermore, the setpoint of the air conditioner 10 is determined, for example, to make the temperature (estimated temperature) at the user's location, when the operation of the air conditioner 10 is controlled, a temperature that makes the user's feeling of warmth or cold comfortable.

[0050] Furthermore, the setpoint of the air conditioner 10 is equivalent to the value of a control factor that can change the air conditioning operation method, such as the heat and airflow supplied from the air conditioner 10 to the room. The setpoint of the air conditioner 10 in this embodiment will be explained, for example, including the operating mode indicating whether heating or cooling is being performed, the set temperature, and the direction of the airflow blowing from the air outlet of the air conditioner 10 (hereinafter referred to as the air outlet direction).

[0051] The following describes in detail the process by which the central control unit 40 determines the setpoint of the air conditioner 10. When determining the setpoint of the air conditioner 10 based on the location information and temperature / coolness sensing information sent from the terminal device 20 as described above, the central control unit 40 needs to maintain in advance a model (hereinafter referred to as the indoor model) representing the relationship between the setpoint of the air conditioner 10 and the temperature (environment) of the indoor 1 (each area) under the condition that the air conditioner 10 is controlled to operate at that setpoint. This indoor model can be created, for example, by measuring and collecting the temperature (data) of the indoor 1 under the condition that the air conditioner 10 is controlled to operate at various setpoints using a thermometer installed in the indoor 1, calibrating it, and formulating the relationship between the setpoint and the temperature. Based on this indoor model, the temperature (estimated value) of the indoor 1 corresponding to the setpoint of the air conditioner 10 can be calculated.

[0052] Here, as Figure 5 As shown, assume the following situation: an air conditioner 10 installed in room 1 has four air outlets 11 to 14 for blowing air in four directions, for example, it is embedded in the ceiling. The room 1 where the air conditioner 10 is installed is divided into four zones (areas) 1-1 to 1-4 corresponding to the air outlets 11 to 14.

[0053] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, an air conditioner 10 is located near the center of an interior room 1 that is roughly square when viewed from above. Furthermore, the air conditioner 10 is configured such that its air outlet 11 faces... Figure 5 Airflow blows from the lower side, air outlet 12 Figure 5 The air blows from the left side, with the air outlet 13 pointing towards... Figure 5 Air blows from the upper side, air outlet 14 Figure 5 The wind blows from the right side.

[0054] Furthermore, the air conditioner 10 in this embodiment is configured to control the airflow direction (i.e., the flap) of each of the air outlets 11 to 14. The direction of the airflow blowing from the air outlets 11 to 14 includes, for example, horizontal and downward.

[0055] In this case, the above-mentioned indoor model becomes the model formulated as shown in Equation (1). Furthermore, Equation (1) assumes an indoor model under the condition that the air conditioner 10 is operating in heating mode.

[0056] f k =T set +α k +λ k F k +β Equation (1)

[0057] In equation (1), f kThis represents the estimated temperature of zone k (k is an integer from 1 to 4). Furthermore, it is assumed that zone 1 (i.e., k = 1) is... Figure 5 The area shown is zone 1-1. Zone 2 (that is, k=2) is... Figure 5 The diagram shows zones 1-2. Zone 3 (that is, k=3) is... Figure 5 The diagram shows zones 1-3. Zone 4 (i.e., k=4) is... Figure 5 Zones 1-4 shown.

[0058] T set This indicates the set temperature included in the set value of air conditioner 10. Additionally, T... set These are settings that are common to all air conditioners 10 (i.e., zones 1-1 to 1-4).

[0059] α k This represents the correction value specific to region k. α k This value is set based on the environment of zone k (internal factors such as the configuration of walls, tables, etc., and / or external factors such as the sunlight exposure determined by the building's geographical location). For example, if zone k is a zone where heating is difficult to achieve when the air conditioner 10 is in heating mode, a low value is set as α. k On the other hand, if zone k is a zone where heating is most effective, then a high value is set as α. k Furthermore, α k It can be either a positive or a negative value.

[0060] λ k λ represents the degree of influence of wind direction in region k. k With the above α k Similarly, the value is set based on the environment of zone k. However, for example, when the air conditioner 10 is operating in heating mode, if the air blown from the air outlet corresponding to zone k is likely to blow onto the user located in zone k, then a higher value is set as λ. k On the other hand, if the air blowing from the vent corresponding to zone k is difficult to reach the user located in zone k, then a low value is set as λ. k Furthermore, let λ k It is a positive value.

[0061] F k This indicates the wind direction of the air outlet corresponding to zone k. Furthermore, F is the value when the wind direction of the air outlet corresponding to zone k is horizontal. k F when the airflow direction of the air outlet is downward k Compared to setting it to a lower value. Specifically, for example, F can be set to a value where the airflow direction of the air outlet corresponding to zone k is horizontal. k F is set to 0 when the airflow direction of the outlet is downward.k Set to 1.

[0062] β represents a common correction value for all zones (zones 1-1 to 1-4). β can be any value set based on the overall environment of room 1. Furthermore, β can be either positive or negative.

[0063] According to the indoor model of equation (1) above, the temperature of zone k is determined by the set temperature T of the air conditioner 10. set The correction value α unique to area k k The wind direction (value) F of the air outlet corresponding to zone k. k Multiply by the influence of wind direction in zone k λ k The obtained value is added to the correction value β to calculate.

[0064] As described above, Equation (1) assumes an indoor model when the air conditioner 10 is operating in heating mode. This indoor model shows that the temperature in zone k increases when the set temperature is high, and the temperature in zone k increases when the air outlet direction is downward, compared to when the air outlet direction is horizontal.

[0065] Furthermore, the indoor model under the condition that the air conditioner 10 is in cooling operation can be formulated as shown in the following formula (2).

[0066] f k =T set +α k -λ k F k +β Equation (2)

[0067] Furthermore, although the temperature of each zone, taking into account the environment of indoor 1 and the environment of each zone into which indoor 1 is divided, can be calculated (estimated) in the above-mentioned indoor model, the indoor model (that is, the relationship between the set value of air conditioner 10 and the temperature under the condition that the air conditioner 10 is controlled by the set value) can also be modeled in more detail, for example, using thermal fluid analysis technology, BIM (Building Information Modeling), etc.

[0068] The central control unit 40 determines the optimal setting value of the air conditioner 10 by using the above-mentioned indoor model. Specifically, the optimal setting value of the air conditioner 10 is calculated according to the following formula (3).

[0069]

[0070] In the above equation (3), T ＊ set This is the optimal set temperature. Additionally, F ＊The optimal airflow direction for the air outlet. Furthermore, although F is omitted in equation (3), ＊ This includes the airflow direction of each of the aforementioned air outlets 11 to 14. Additionally, N represents the number of users (indoor occupants) located in room 1.

[0071] S n The temperature (room temperature) that user n (n = 1, 2, ..., N) feels comfortable in room 1 is calculated based on the aforementioned temperature sensation information (user n's temperature sensation). Specifically, for example, suppose the temperature of zone k calculated using the aforementioned indoor model is T, and the temperature sensation of user n in zone k (that is, the temperature sensation input to the terminal device 20 used by user n) is "hot". In this case, since user n feels "hot" at temperature T in zone k, the temperature that user n feels comfortable in can be calculated, for example, from temperature T-1. On the other hand, if user n feels "cold", the temperature that user n feels comfortable in zone k can be calculated from temperature T+1. This section explains the cases where user n's perceived temperature is "hot" or "cold." When user n feels "too hot," the comfortable temperature can be calculated from the temperature T-2 in zone k. When user n feels "too cold," the comfortable temperature can be calculated from the temperature T+2 in zone k. Furthermore, when user n feels "comfortable," the temperature T in zone k is simply used as the comfortable temperature. A simple example of calculating the comfortable temperature for user n is provided here; however, other methods can also be used to calculate the comfortable temperature for user n.

[0072] f k(n) (T sec F) is in the case of a set temperature T sec The set value of the air outlet direction F (the current set value) controls the temperature of the area k where user n is located when the air conditioner 10 is running, and represents the above-mentioned indoor model. In addition, although it is omitted in equation (3), F includes the air outlet direction of each of the air outlets 11 to 14.

[0073] Δ represents the current setting value (set temperature T). sec The airflow direction (F) of the air outlet and the optimal setpoint (set temperature T) ＊ sec And the airflow direction F of the air outlet ＊ The difference between the current and the previous values. By adding the square of this Δ (penalty), adjustments can be made in a way that calculates the optimal setting as the one closest to the current setting.

[0074] According to the above formula (3), the combination of the minimum set temperature and the air outlet direction is calculated as the optimal set value, which is the sum of the square error of the temperature that each user n in room 1 feels comfortable with and the temperature of the area k where user n is located, plus the penalty term.

[0075] As described above, the indoor model obtained by modeling (formulating) the relationship between the setpoint of the air conditioner 10 and the temperature of each zone of the room 1 when the operation of the air conditioner 10 is controlled by the setpoint is useful for determining the appropriate setpoint of the air conditioner 10 based on the individual temperature and coolness sensation of each user in the room 1.

[0076] However, depending on seasonal changes, changes in the layout of Interior 1, etc., the above-mentioned interior model sometimes has to be updated, and the cost of updating the interior model is high.

[0077] Therefore, in this embodiment, the aggregation device 30 aggregates the air conditioning-related information sent from the terminal devices 20 used by multiple users, so as to effectively use it for updating the indoor model, etc.

[0078] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the air conditioning system is described as having a combined device 30 and a central control device 40 as separate devices, but the combined device 30 may also be integrally formed with the central control device 40.

[0079] Figure 6 This is an example illustrating the functional structure of the total assembly device 30. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the totalizing device 30 includes an indoor information storage unit 31, an input information storage unit 32, an air conditioner information storage unit 33, a zone information storage unit 34, a collection unit 35, a totalizing unit 36, and an analysis unit 37.

[0080] The indoor information storage unit 31 stores in advance information such as a map (floor plan) showing the layout (plan arrangement) of the indoor room 1 where the air conditioner 10 is installed (hereinafter referred to as indoor information). The location of the air conditioner 10 installed in the indoor room 1 is also set in the indoor information (map).

[0081] Furthermore, the interior information may include, for example, information related to the building structure, including doors and windows installed in interior 1, and information related to furniture and equipment such as partitions, cabinets, bookshelves, tables, and chairs. Moreover, if the layout of interior 1 and the location of the air conditioner 10 can be obtained, the interior information may also be a BIM model constructed based on detailed building information. Additionally, the interior information may include time-series information representing the state of the doors and windows (i.e., information representing the state of the doors and windows at various times). This time-series information can be obtained, for example, using various sensors installed on the doors and windows. Furthermore, the interior information may also include information such as the model and specifications of the products (building structures, furniture, and equipment) installed in interior 1.

[0082] The input information storage unit 32 stores (accumulates) the input information sent from the terminal devices 20 used by each of the multiple users located in the room 1, as described above. This input information, associated with user identification information (hereinafter referred to as user ID) used to identify the user (the user using the terminal device 20 that sent the input information), includes location information indicating the user's location, temperature / coolness information indicating the user's temperature sensitivity, and the date and time at which the location information and temperature / coolness information were input to the terminal device 20. Furthermore, the date and time included in the input information can be automatically assigned at the time the location information and temperature / coolness information are input to the terminal device 20, but it can also be input to the terminal device 20 based on user actions, for example.

[0083] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the temperature / coolness information included in the input information is described as "hot" and "cold," but this temperature / coolness information may also include an overall reaction to the environment of room 1, such as "uncomfortable wind" or "high humidity." Additionally, the location information included in the input information may be either coordinate values ​​(X and Y coordinates) representing the location of room 1 on a layout (map), or information representing the seating position within room 1.

[0084] The air conditioner information storage unit 33 stores, for example, air conditioner information related to the setpoints of the air conditioner 10, which is transmitted from the air conditioner 10 or the central control device 40. The air conditioner information stored in the air conditioner information storage unit 33 includes the setpoints of the air conditioner 10 and the date and time (or period) during which the air conditioner 10 was controlled based on those setpoints. In other words, the air conditioner information is equivalent to information representing the historical records of the setpoints of the air conditioner 10. Furthermore, the setpoints of the air conditioner 10 included in the air conditioner information include the aforementioned operating mode, set temperature, and airflow direction from the air outlet, but may also include, for example, the amount of air blown from the air outlet (airflow). Moreover, the air conditioner information may also include data measured by various sensors, such as a thermometer, installed within the air conditioner 10 during the period when the air conditioner 10 was controlled using the setpoints included in the air conditioner information.

[0085] The partition information storage unit 34 stores information (hereinafter referred to as partition information) indicating the arrangement of multiple zones obtained by dividing the aforementioned room 1 (that is, the layout of room 1 represented by the room information stored in the room information storage unit 31). Furthermore, the multiple zones represented by the partition information stored in the partition information storage unit 34 are pre-defined based on the layout of room 1 and the location of the air conditioner 10 (including its air outlets) in room 1, but they can also be defined (determined) based on, for example, the effect of the air conditioning in room 1, temperature distribution, etc. Figure 5 As shown, if the air conditioner 10 is located near the center of the room 1 and has four air outlets, it is assumed that the partition information storage unit 34 stores partition information indicating that the room 1 is divided into four zones 1-1 to 1-4.

[0086] The collection unit 35 collects the input information contained in the input information storage unit 32 based on predetermined conditions. Furthermore, the predetermined conditions for collecting the input information may include, for example, a period. In this case, the collection unit 35 collects input information containing a date and time that matches the period included in the predetermined conditions, based on the date and time contained in the input information stored in the input information storage unit 32. The period included in the conditions for collecting input information in this way can be preset or specified by the administrator of the total unit 30 (or the air conditioning system).

[0087] Additionally, the predetermined conditions may include the setting value of the air conditioner 10. When the predetermined conditions include the setting value of the air conditioner 10, input information containing the date and time corresponding to the period during which the air conditioner 10 is controlled to operate using the setting value of the air conditioner 10 can be collected. Furthermore, the period during which the air conditioner 10 is controlled to operate using the setting value of the air conditioner 10 included in the predetermined conditions can be determined by the air conditioner information (including the setting value of the air conditioner 10 and the date and time) stored in the air conditioner information storage unit 33.

[0088] The summarization unit 36, based on the location information contained in the input information collected by the collection unit 35, sums up the temperature and coldness information contained in the input information for each zone represented by the partition information stored in the partition information storage unit 34.

[0089] The analysis unit 37 analyzes the temperature and cooling sensation information (i.e., the total result) calculated by the totalization unit 36, and feeds back the total result (or analysis result) to the central control unit 40. The total result fed back to the central control unit 40 can be used to update the indoor model used to determine the setpoint of the air conditioner 10.

[0090] Figure 7 This illustrates an example of the hardware structure of the aggregate device 30. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the total device 30 includes a CPU 301, a non-volatile memory 302, a main memory 303, and a communication device 304.

[0091] CPU 301 is a hardware processor that controls the operation of various components within the aggregation device 30. CPU 301 executes various programs loaded from non-volatile memory 302, which serves as a storage device, into main memory 303. The programs executed by CPU 301 include the operating system (OS) and application programs (hereinafter referred to as aggregation programs) for aggregating the aforementioned temperature and coldness information.

[0092] The communication device 304 is configured to perform communication, for example, via wired or wireless means, with external devices such as the air conditioner 10, the terminal device 20, and the central control device 40.

[0093] exist Figure 7 The diagram only shows non-volatile memory 302 and main memory 303, but the total device 30 may also include other storage devices such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0094] In this embodiment, the indoor information storage unit 31, the input information storage unit 32, the air conditioner information storage unit 33, and the zone information storage unit 34 are provided by Figure 7 The non-volatile memory 302 shown or other storage devices are used for implementation.

[0095] Furthermore, in this embodiment, part or all of the collecting unit 35, the summarizing unit 36, and the analyzing unit 37 are achieved by using... Figure 7 The CPU 301 shown executes the overall program, which is implemented by software. In addition, some or all of these components can also be implemented by hardware such as ICs (Integrated Circuits), or by a combination of software and hardware.

[0096] Next, refer to Figure 8 The flowchart below illustrates an example of the processing steps of the totalizing device 30. Here, it is assumed that various types of information (input information and air conditioner information) have been accumulated in the input information storage unit 32 and the air conditioner information storage unit 33 included in the totalizing device 30 for a sufficient period of time.

[0097] First, the collection unit 35 determines, for example, whether the current date and time matches the preset update period of the indoor model (step S1). Furthermore, in step S1, for example, it can be determined that the current date and time matches the update period of the indoor model either when the preset date and time has elapsed, or when a predetermined period has elapsed since the last update of the indoor model.

[0098] If it is determined that the current date and time do not match the update period of the indoor model (step S1: No), the process of step S1 is repeated. That is, the process of step S1 is repeated until it is determined that the current date and time match the update period of the indoor model.

[0099] On the other hand, if it is determined that the current date and time match the update period of the indoor model (step S1: Yes), the collection unit 35 collects input information that meets predetermined conditions from the input information storage unit 32 (step S2). As described above, the predetermined conditions can be a period, the setting value of the air conditioner 10, or a combination thereof. In addition, in the case where the temperature (data) measured by the thermometer is included in the air conditioner information as described above, it is also possible to collect input information that includes the date and time that matches days with a temperature of 30 degrees or higher.

[0100] Next, the totalization unit 36 ​​totals the temperature and coldness information contained in the input information based on the location information collected in step S2 (step S3).

[0101] In step S2 described above, multiple input information is collected. When one of these multiple input information is used as object input information, the aggregation unit 36 ​​can determine the partition among the multiple zones represented by the partition information stored in the partition information storage unit 34, including the partition represented by the position information contained in the object input information. The aggregation unit 36 ​​aggregates the temperature / cold sensation information contained in the object input information as the temperature / cold sensation information of the partition thus determined. In step S3, by performing this processing on each input information collected in step S2, the temperature / cold sensation information contained in each of the collected input information can be aggregated according to each zone represented by the partition information stored in the partition information storage unit 34.

[0102] Here, the temperature / coolness information calculated in step S3 represents, for example, a temperature / coolness feeling such as "too hot," "hot," "comfortable," "cold," and "too cold." However, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the temperature / coolness feeling can be represented by a numerical value. Hereinafter, for convenience, the numerical value representing the temperature / coolness feeling will be referred to as the temperature / coolness feeling value.

[0103] Specifically, for example, if a user's perceived temperature is "too hot," the perceived temperature value is "+2." If the user's perceived temperature is "hot," the perceived temperature value is "+1." If the user's perceived temperature is "comfortable," the perceived temperature value is "0." Furthermore, if the user's perceived temperature is "cold," the perceived temperature value is "-1." Finally, if the user's perceived temperature is "too cold," the perceived temperature value is "-2."

[0104] In this case, the analysis unit 37 calculates the average value of the temperature and coolness sensation values ​​represented by the temperature and coolness sensation information aggregated for each zone in step S3 (hereinafter referred to as the average value of temperature and coolness sensation for each zone) (step S4). In other words, in step S4, the average value of temperature and coolness sensation is calculated for each zone.

[0105] Next, the analysis unit 37 determines whether the indoor model needs to be updated based on the average temperature and coldness of each zone calculated in step S4 (step S5).

[0106] Here, it is assumed that if, in step S2 above, input information including the date and time corresponding to the period during which the air conditioner 10 operates in heating mode is collected, the average temperature / coolness perception of one of the multiple zones (hereinafter referred to as the object zone) calculated in step S4 is less than a first threshold. Furthermore, it is assumed that the first threshold is negative. In this case, since the temperature / coolness perception of users in the object zone is biased towards "cold" and "too cold," it is presumed that the heating effect for that object zone is insufficient (that is, the air conditioner is not working effectively in that object zone), and it is determined that the indoor model needs to be updated.

[0107] If the above determination indicates that the indoor model needs to be updated (step S5: Yes), the analysis unit 37 instructs the central control device 40 to update the indoor model (step S6).

[0108] Furthermore, given the aforementioned presumption that heating in the target zone is ineffective, it is considered necessary to increase the temperature of the target zone. Therefore, it is considered to update the indoor model to make the set temperature determined by the aforementioned equation (3) higher. In this case, for example, the α value of the indoor model shown in equation (1) is changed to... k and λ kAt least one of them needs to be reduced. Alternatively, for example, if heating in multiple zones of room 1 is entirely ineffective, the indoor model's β can be reduced. Furthermore, although not defined in the aforementioned indoor model, if an airflow is defined in that model, it can be updated to use the determined airflow as the setpoint. In the following explanation, α will be changed to update the indoor model. k , λ k β and others are called parameters of the indoor model.

[0109] Here, Figure 9 The above concept represents the order of events. Figure 5 The temperature / coolness information is calculated by combining zones 1-1 to 1-4. Figure 9 For convenience, the Chinese text uses... Figure 3 The icons 202a to 202e shown represent the temperature and coolness information, so that the temperature and coolness information (represented by each zone) can be intuitively understood.

[0110] according to Figure 9 As shown in the example, if the temperature and coolness information aggregated for zone 1-1 indicates a bias towards "cold" and "too cold" (less "comfortable"), then the central control unit 40 will be instructed to update the indoor model (that is, at least one of the parameters mentioned above) used to calculate the temperature of zone 1-1.

[0111] This explanation addresses the case where input information containing dates and times corresponding to the period during which the air conditioner 10 operates in heating mode is collected. However, when input information containing dates and times corresponding to the period during which the air conditioner 10 operates in cooling mode is collected, if the average temperature perceived in the target zone is above the second threshold, it can be inferred that the cooling effect for that target zone is insufficient, and it is determined that the indoor model needs to be updated. Furthermore, it is assumed that the second threshold is positive. In this case, the indoor model is updated so that the set temperature determined by the above-mentioned formula (3) becomes lower.

[0112] Furthermore, while the situation where the air conditioning (heating or cooling) effect is insufficient has been explained here, if, for example, the average temperature of the target zone when the air conditioner 10 is operating in heating mode is above the second threshold, it can be inferred that the heating effect for that target zone is excessive, and it is determined that the indoor model needs to be updated. In this case, the indoor model is updated so that the set temperature determined by the above-mentioned formula (3) becomes lower.

[0113] Similarly, for example, if the average temperature of the target zone is less than the first threshold when the air conditioner 10 is operating in cooling mode, it can be inferred that the cooling effect on the target zone is excessive, and it is determined that the indoor model needs to be updated. In this case, the indoor model is updated so that the set temperature determined by the above-mentioned formula (3) becomes higher.

[0114] Furthermore, the specific updates to the indoor model (the parameters that should be updated and the values ​​of the updated parameters) can be indicated to the central control unit 40 from the aggregation device 30 (analysis unit 37), or the decision can be made on the central control unit 40 side.

[0115] On the other hand, if it is determined that the indoor model does not need to be updated (step S5: No), Figure 8 The processing shown has ended.

[0116] Here, the indoor model is often updated periodically based on seasonal changes, but it is also possible to pre-accumulate the timing (i.e., update pattern) of past indoor model updates and update the indoor model based on this update pattern. In this configuration, the system determines whether the current date and time matches the update period based on the update pattern and collects the input information corresponding to that update pattern.

[0117] Specifically, for example, assuming there is an update pattern where the indoor model is updated at a specific time when the season changes from summer to autumn, then in step S1, the current date and time are determined to match the update period. Next, in step S2, input information containing a date and time matching that of autumn a year ago is collected. Accordingly, it is possible to automatically update the indoor model used in summer to an indoor model suitable for autumn when the season changes from summer to autumn.

[0118] Furthermore, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the administrator of the total device 30 (air conditioning system) can, for example, view the input information (a list) stored in the input information storage unit 32. Accordingly, even if it is determined in step S1 that the current date and time do not conform to the update period of the indoor model, if the administrator, as described above, has viewed the input information and determines that the user's dissatisfaction has increased (there is a large number of temperature and coldness information indicating temperature and coldness other than "comfort") and instructs to update the indoor model, the processing after performing step S2 can be performed.

[0119] As described above, in this embodiment, input information including location information indicating the location of each user using multiple terminal devices 20 in the room 1, temperature and cold sensation information indicating the user's temperature and cold sensation at that location, and the date and time when the location information and the temperature and cold sensation information are input to the terminal device 20 are stored in the input information storage unit 32 (second storage unit). Air conditioner information including the setting value of the air conditioner 10 and the date and time when the operation of the air conditioner 10 is controlled based on the setting value is stored in the air conditioner information storage unit 33 (third storage unit). Based on the date and time included in the input information and the setting value and date and time included in the air conditioner information, input information is collected from the input information storage unit 32. Based on the location information included in the collected input information, the temperature and cold sensation information included in the input information is summed up for each partition (area) obtained by dividing the room 1.

[0120] In this embodiment, based on the above configuration, information (input information) related to air conditioning sent from the terminal devices 20 used by multiple users can be effectively utilized, which helps to improve the accuracy of air conditioning provided by the air conditioning system and the satisfaction of users using the air conditioning system.

[0121] Specifically, in this embodiment, by feeding back the temperature / coolness sensation information calculated as described above to the central control unit 40 (the control unit that controls the air conditioner 10) to update the indoor model used to determine the setpoint of the air conditioner 10, this temperature / coolness sensation information can be effectively utilized. In this case, the central control unit 40 is instructed to update the indoor model based on the average value of the temperature / coolness sensation values ​​representing the temperature / coolness sensation as calculated as described above. With this configuration, the operating cost of updating the indoor model using the temperature / coolness sensation information calculated by the calculating unit 30 can be reduced.

[0122] Furthermore, this embodiment mainly describes updating the indoor model maintained by the central control device 40 based on the total result of temperature and cold sensation information. However, this embodiment can be configured to feed back the total result to the central control device 40 or the like in order to effectively utilize the total result. The total result can also be used for other purposes.

[0123] Specifically, it is difficult to model the indoor environment in detail. Depending on the building, there may be situations where modeling is impossible due to insufficient equipment or environmental specifications (i.e., not enough information for modeling). In such cases, a process such as creating an indoor model using the aggregated results of the aforementioned temperature and coldness information can be performed.

[0124] Alternatively, in this embodiment, the input information can be collected using an update mode based on an indoor model. With this configuration, the model can be automatically updated to a preferred indoor model, for example, based on seasonal changes.

[0125] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the aggregation device 30 is described as including an indoor information storage unit 31, an input information storage unit 32, an air conditioner information storage unit 33, and a zone information storage unit 34. However, at least one of the storage units 31 to 34 may also be configured outside the aggregation device 30. For example, if the input information storage unit 32 and the air conditioner information storage unit 33 are configured outside the aggregation device 30 as a server device, the aggregation device 30 can collect input information by accessing the server device and referring to the air conditioner information.

[0126] Here, generally speaking, a door and window are provided in the room 1, and it is believed that the vicinity of the door and window is easily affected by the outside air, so the air conditioner is difficult to function regardless of the setting of the air conditioner 10. Therefore, this embodiment can be configured to assign weights to each position (coordinate) of the room 1, and instruct the central control device 40 to update the room model taking into account the weights (hereinafter referred to as a variation of this embodiment).

[0127] The following is for reference Figure 10 The flowchart illustrates an example of the processing steps of the totalizing device 30 involved in a variation of this embodiment.

[0128] First, the totalizing device 30 assigns weights to each position (coordinate) of the room 1 as represented by the room information stored in the room information storage unit 31 (step S11).

[0129] In this case, for example, if the area next to the door and window is set as a peripheral area where discomfort is easily generated regardless of air conditioning (control) (that is, the air conditioner is difficult to function), and the area not next to the door and window is set as an internal area where discomfort is easily eliminated by air conditioning (control) (that is, the air conditioner is easy to function), the total device 30 assigns a small weight to the location contained in the peripheral area and a large weight to the location contained in the internal area.

[0130] Furthermore, in a variation of this embodiment, the peripheral area and the internal area are regions that are different concepts from the multiple areas obtained by dividing the interior 1 as described above (that is, multiple areas represented by the partition information stored in the partition information storage unit 34). That is, the peripheral area and the internal area can each be a part of each of the multiple areas represented by the partition information, or a region that includes that region, or a region that spans multiple regions.

[0131] For example, Figure 11 As shown, when windows 1a and 1b are provided in interior 1, the area 401 near windows 1a and 1b is the periphery area, and the weight assigned to the positions contained in this area 401 is small. Similarly, when door 1c is provided in interior 1, the area 402 near door 1c is the periphery area, and the weight assigned to the positions contained in this area 402 is small. On the other hand, the area outside the aforementioned areas 401 and 402 (periphery areas) of interior 1 is the interior area, and the weight assigned to this area is large.

[0132] Next, execution and Figure 8 The processing of steps S1 to S6 shown is equivalent to the processing of steps S12 to S17.

[0133] Furthermore, in step S15, the average temperature / coolness sensation for each zone is calculated, and this average temperature / coolness sensation for each zone is calculated by taking into account the weights assigned to each location in room 1 in step S11 above. Specifically, for each temperature / coolness sensation value representing the temperature / coolness sensation as aggregated for each zone in step S14, the weight assigned to the location in room 1 where the user was located when the temperature / coolness sensation information was input (that is, the location represented by the location information contained in the input information containing the temperature / coolness sensation information) is reflected (that is, multiplied by the weight). In step S15, the average temperature / coolness sensation value reflecting this weight is used to calculate the average value.

[0134] Here, it is assumed that in the above... Figure 11 In the case shown, areas 401 and 402 (peripheral areas) of indoor 1 are assigned small weights, while areas outside 401 and 402 (internal areas) are assigned large weights, such as... Figure 9 The image shows the sum of temperature and coolness information for each zone.

[0135] In this case, zones 1-1 and 1-4 tend to have more warm-cold sensations indicating "cold" and "too cold," and fewer warm-cold sensations indicating "comfortable." However, zone 1-1 has more warm-cold sensations indicating "cold" and "too cold" within its internal zones. In this case, the average warm-cold sensation value in zone 1-1 becomes low, presumably because the air conditioner is particularly ineffective.

[0136] On the other hand, zones 1-4 have more "cold" and "too cold" temperature sensations in the surrounding zones, but more "comfortable" temperature sensations in the inner zones. In this case, the average temperature sensation of zones 1-4 is higher than that of zone 1-1 because the influence of the temperature sensation information (temperature sensation value) input from the surrounding zones is mitigated, suggesting that the air conditioner played a role to some extent.

[0137] Therefore, in Figure 10In step S16, it is determined that the indoor model used to calculate the temperature of zone 1-1 (that is, the parameters related to zone 1-1) needs to be updated, but the indoor model used to calculate the temperature of zone 1-4 (that is, the parameters related to zone 1-4) does not need to be updated.

[0138] As described in this embodiment above, without considering the peripheral and internal zones (that is, assigning equal weights to all locations in room 1), the temperature and coldness information input by users in the peripheral zone, who are prone to discomfort (dissatisfaction) regardless of air conditioning, can influence the indoor model used to calculate the temperature of zones 1-4, even though users in the internal zone feel "comfortable." In this case, since the peripheral zone is inherently uncomfortable regardless of air conditioning, there is a possibility that the temperature and coldness of users in the peripheral zone will not improve, and the comfort of users in the internal zone may be impaired due to the updated indoor model (that is, the temperature and coldness may change from "comfortable" to "hot" or "cold," etc.).

[0139] In this embodiment, in a variation, by assigning different weights to the peripheral area and the internal area as described above, the effect of the air conditioning without interference (the influence of external air) in the peripheral area can be evaluated and the indoor model updated (that is, the central control device 40 is instructed to update the indoor model based on the peripheral area and the internal area), thus enabling the updating of the indoor model to better reflect the actual environment.

[0140] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a variation was described where different weights were assigned to the peripheral area and the interior area. However, it is also possible to exclude the temperature / coolness information input by users located in the peripheral area when summing the temperature / coolness information (that is, to exclude the temperature / coolness information input by users located in the peripheral area from the summing object). In this case, the interior model can be updated based on the average temperature / coolness in the interior area.

[0141] Furthermore, although in the variations of this embodiment, the layout of the room 1 (the positions of doors and windows) represented by the indoor information stored in the indoor information storage unit 31 can be used to estimate (determine) the peripheral area and the interior area, there are cases where the indoor information cannot be used to estimate the peripheral area and the interior area (that is, the indoor information does not include the positions of doors and windows). In this case, the location information and temperature / coldness information (that is, the historical record of past temperature / coldness) contained in the input information stored (accumulated) in the input information storage unit 32 can be used to gradually estimate the area where the air conditioner is difficult to operate (that is, the peripheral area where discomfort is easily caused regardless of air conditioning) based on the structure of the building. Specifically, for example, if the operation of the air conditioner 10 is controlled with a setting value such as feeling "hot (too hot)" or "cold (too cold)," but the user inputs temperature / coldness information that indicates the opposite of these values, the area including the user's location can be estimated as the peripheral area.

[0142] Furthermore, when the indoor information includes time-series information indicating the status of doors and windows, the model and specifications of products installed in indoor 1, etc., this information can be used to evaluate the degree of influence of external gases, thereby presuming the area with a high degree of influence of external gases as the peripheral zone. Accordingly, for example, even if an area is near a door, but the door is opened and closed infrequently, that area can be presumed as a non-peripheral zone (i.e., an internal zone). Similarly, even if an area is near a window, but the window has high thermal insulation, that area can be presumed as a non-peripheral zone. Furthermore, the peripheral zone can also be presumed based on factors such as the height of partitions installed in indoor 1.

[0143] Furthermore, this description assumes that a small weight is assigned to the surrounding area (the included location) and a large weight is assigned to the inner area (the included location). However, for example, a moderate weight could also be assigned to the location included in the area that is not a surrounding area but is close to the wall. Thus, in a variation of this embodiment, for example, it could be configured to assign three or more different weights to each location.

[0144] (Second Implementation)

[0145] Next, the second embodiment will be described. Furthermore, in this embodiment, detailed descriptions of parts identical to those in the first embodiment are omitted; only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described. Additionally, the configuration of the air conditioning system and the combined unit in this embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment, therefore appropriate usage is permitted. Figure 1 and Figure 6 Please provide an explanation.

[0146] Here, it is common for users of the air conditioner 10 to notice poor air conditioning performance when the air conditioner 10 malfunctions or its function deteriorates (hereinafter referred to as abnormal). While there are systems in air conditioning systems that detect filter deterioration and issue warnings, such systems are expensive and their adoption is limited.

[0147] Therefore, the difference between this embodiment and the first embodiment described above is that the abnormality of the air conditioner 10 is detected based on the total temperature and coldness information (determining whether the air conditioner 10 has malfunctioned).

[0148] The following is for reference Figure 12 The flowchart illustrates an example of the processing steps of the totalizing device 30 involved in this embodiment.

[0149] First, the collection unit 35 obtains the date and time contained in the air conditioner information stored in the air conditioner information storage unit 33 as the operation control date and time (that is, the date and time when the operation of the air conditioner 10 is controlled) (step S21).

[0150] After performing step S21, the collection unit 35 collects input information (hereinafter referred to as the first input information) that corresponds to the first period based on the operation control date and time obtained in step S21 (step S22). Furthermore, the first period is the period before the operation control date and time (for example, the period from one hour before the operation control date and time to that operation control date and time, etc.), and the first input information is equivalent to the input information before the operation of the air conditioner 10 is controlled.

[0151] Additionally, the collection unit 35 collects input information (hereinafter referred to as the second input information) that corresponds to the second period based on the operation control date and time obtained in step S21 (step S23). Furthermore, the second period is the period after the operation control date and time (for example, the period from the operation control date and time to one hour after that operation control date and time, etc.), and the second input information is equivalent to the input information after the operation of the air conditioner 10 is controlled.

[0152] Next, the aggregation unit 36 ​​aggregates the temperature / cold sensation information contained in the input information collected in steps S22 and S23 based on the location information collected in those steps (step S24). This step S24 is equivalent to the aforementioned process. Figure 8The processing of step S3 shown, but the total result when the processing of step S24 is performed, includes: a total result containing the temperature and coldness information calculated by each zone based on the first input information (hereinafter referred to as the first total result), and a total result containing the temperature and coldness information calculated by each zone based on the second input information (hereinafter referred to as the second total result).

[0153] After performing step S24, the analysis unit 37 performs step S25 for each zone. When a zone for which step S25 has been performed is designated as the target zone, the analysis unit 37 calculates the average value of the temperature / coolness sensation based on the first total result for that target zone, calculates the average value of the temperature / coolness sensation based on the second total result for that target zone, and calculates the difference between these average values ​​as the degree of change in the temperature / coolness sensation of the target zone before and after the operating control date and time obtained in step S21 (hereinafter referred to as the degree of change in temperature / coolness sensation). By performing this step S25 for each zone, the analysis unit 37 calculates the degree of change in temperature / coolness sensation for each zone.

[0154] The analysis unit 37 determines whether the air conditioner 10 has malfunctioned based on the degree of change in temperature and coolness in each zone calculated in step S25 (step S26). In this case, for example, if there are zones where the degree of change in temperature and coolness before and after the operating control date and time is extremely small, it is presumed that the air conditioner 10 has malfunctioned or that the air conditioner 10 is not working properly (operating) due to major factors such as filter deterioration. Therefore, in step S26, for example, if the degree of change in temperature and coolness in at least one zone is less than a predetermined value (hereinafter referred to as the third threshold), it is determined that the air conditioner 10 has malfunctioned, and if the degree of change in temperature and coolness in all zones is greater than or equal to the third threshold, it is determined that the air conditioner 10 has not malfunctioned.

[0155] However, in the case of the peripheral area described in the first embodiment, there is a possibility that the temperature and coldness changes are small even if the air conditioner 10 does not malfunction. Therefore, the processing of step S26 can also be performed considering both the peripheral area and the internal area.

[0156] If it is determined that the air conditioner 10 has malfunctioned (step S26: Yes), the analysis unit 37 issues a warning (notification) about the malfunction of the air conditioner 10 (step S27). Furthermore, in step S27, for example, it may perform a process of notifying the terminal device 20 or the central control device 40 that the air conditioner 10 has malfunctioned, or it may perform a process such as illuminating a predetermined light installed on the air conditioner 10.

[0157] On the other hand, if it is determined that the air conditioner 10 is not malfunctioning (step S26: No), Figure 12 The processing shown has ended.

[0158] Furthermore, while only one operating control date and time needs to be obtained in step S21, multiple operating control dates and times can also be obtained in step S21. In this case, the first and second input information are collected based on each of the multiple operating control dates and times obtained in step S21, and the degree of change in temperature / coolness sensation is calculated for each of these operating control dates and times. In step S26, it can be determined that the air conditioner 10 has malfunctioned if the average value of the degree of change in temperature / coolness sensation calculated for each operating control date and time is less than a third threshold, or it can be determined that the air conditioner 10 has malfunctioned if the maximum value of the degree of change in temperature / coolness sensation calculated for each operating control date and time is less than the third threshold. Additionally, in step S26, it can also be determined that the air conditioner 10 has malfunctioned if the degree of change in temperature / coolness sensation calculated for each operating control date and time is continuously less than the third threshold.

[0159] Furthermore, there are cases where users enter or leave the room before or after the operating control date and time. Since the perceived temperature varies from user to user, there is a possibility of incorrectly determining that the air conditioner 10 has malfunctioned when considering the temperature and coldness information from different users. Therefore, in steps S22 and S23, it is also possible to collect the first and second input information containing the same user ID (that is, only the input information of users who are both in room 1 before and after the operating control date and time is collected). With this configuration, since only the temperature and coldness information input by the same user is considered, it is possible to improve the accuracy of detecting malfunctions in the air conditioner 10. In addition, with this configuration, the average value of the difference in temperature and coldness values ​​contained in the temperature and coldness information input by the same user before and after the operating control date and time (that is, the difference in temperature and coldness values ​​for each user) can be calculated as the degree of change in temperature and coldness.

[0160] In addition, step S25 is described as calculating the degree of change in temperature and coolness in each zone, but it is also possible not to divide the zones, calculate the degree of change in temperature and coolness as a whole in the room 1, and determine whether the air conditioner 10 has malfunctioned based on the degree of change in temperature and coolness.

[0161] Furthermore, while step S27 describes a report of an abnormality in the air conditioner 10, step S26 identifies zones where the temperature / coolness variation is less than the third threshold. Therefore, in step S27, it's possible to report, for example, that components related to the air outlets of zones where the temperature / coolness variation is less than the third threshold may have deteriorated or malfunctioned. In cases where the temperature / coolness variation across the entire air conditioner 10 is less than the third threshold, it's also possible to report the possibility of deterioration of the air intake filter, calibration deviation of the internal temperature sensor, etc. In other words, the analysis unit 37 can also estimate and report the main cause of the abnormality in the air conditioner 10 (candidate fault locations, etc.) based on the total result of the aforementioned temperature / coolness information (temperature / coolness variation in each zone).

[0162] Here, Figure 13 For example, this shows the temperature and cooling information before and after the first operating control date and time (that is, before and after the operation of the air conditioner 10).

[0163] according to Figure 13 Within zones 1-2 to 1-4, the temperature sensation of each user changed before and after the first operating control date and time, but within zone 1-1, the temperature sensation did not change.

[0164] in addition, Figure 14 For example, this shows the temperature and coolness information before and after the date and time of the second operation control. According to... Figure 14 Within zones 1-2 to 1-4, the temperature sensation of each user changed before and after the second operating control date and time, but within zone 1-1, the temperature sensation did not change.

[0165] In this case, by performing the above... Figure 12 The processing shown, for example, can report that the performance of the air conditioner may be reduced due to malfunction (or deterioration) of components or filters around the air outlet (blade) 11 corresponding to zone 1-1.

[0166] As described above, in this embodiment, by determining whether the air conditioner 10 has malfunctioned (that is, detecting malfunctions in the air conditioner 10) based on the aggregated result of temperature and cold sensation information (the aggregated temperature and cold sensation information), the aggregated result can be effectively used for early detection of malfunctions (faults or deterioration) of the air conditioner 10, regular maintenance, etc. In other words, in this embodiment, based on the view that the function of the air conditioner 10 can be assumed to be degraded when the temperature and cold sensation does not change at all according to the air conditioning control, using the historical record of temperature and cold sensation (the aggregated result of temperature and cold sensation information), it is possible to detect (discover) the faults or deterioration of the air conditioner 10 at an early stage.

[0167] Furthermore, assuming that the totalizing device 30 involved in this embodiment is configured in combination with the aforementioned first embodiment, for example, it may be possible to achieve this even though execution Figure 8 The process shown updates the indoor model, but the user's perception of temperature (dissatisfaction with heating or cooling) is not improved in such cases. Figure 12 The processing method shown is applied.

[0168] However, the totalizing device 30 involved in this embodiment may also be configured not to perform... Figure 8 The processing shown only performs... Figure 12 The processing shown.

[0169] (Third Implementation)

[0170] Next, the third embodiment will be described. Furthermore, in this embodiment, detailed descriptions of parts identical to those in the first embodiment are omitted; only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described. Additionally, the configuration of the air conditioning system according to this embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment, therefore appropriate usage... Figure 1 Please provide an explanation.

[0171] The configuration of the aggregation device 30 according to this embodiment will be described below. Since the hardware structure of this aggregation device 30 is the same as that of the first embodiment described above, it will be used... Figure 7 To explain.

[0172] Figure 15 This illustrates an example of the functional structure of the totalizing device 30 involved in this embodiment. Furthermore, in Figure 15 In the middle, regarding the aforementioned Figure 6 The same parts are given the same reference numerals, and their detailed descriptions are omitted. Here, the main focus is on the parts with... Figure 6 The different parts will be explained.

[0173] like Figure 15 As shown, the total assembly device 30 includes an adjustment unit 38. Furthermore, part or all of the adjustment unit 38 is adjusted by causing the aforementioned... Figure 7 The CPU 301 shown executes the aggregate program, which is implemented by software. Furthermore, part or all of the adjustment unit 38 can also be implemented by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware.

[0174] Here, since each user's (individual's) perception of temperature or coolness can vary significantly depending on factors such as weather or physical condition, even when the same user is in the same zone where the air conditioner 10 is controlled with the same settings, the perception of temperature or coolness may sometimes differ depending on the date and time (that is, the perception of temperature or coolness fluctuates). This fluctuation in perception of temperature or coolness is a major reason for reducing the accuracy of the total perception of temperature or coolness information and hindering the appropriate updating of the indoor model.

[0175] Therefore, the adjustment unit 38 has the function of adjusting the input information collected by the collection unit 35 to mitigate the effects of such fluctuations in temperature and coolness. Specifically, for example, if there are multiple input messages in the input information collected by the collection unit 35 sent from the terminal device 20 used by the same user in the same zone during the operation of the air conditioner 10 controlled with the same set value, the adjustment unit 38 determines outliers (deviation values) from the temperature and coolness information (temperature and coolness values) contained in each of the multiple input messages, and excludes the input information containing the outlier (temperature and coolness values ​​equivalent to the outlier) from the objects to be aggregated by the aggregation unit 36.

[0176] Furthermore, since the period during which the air conditioner 10 was controlled by the set value can be determined (discriminated) based on the set value and date and time contained in the air conditioner information stored in the air conditioner information storage unit 33, the aforementioned multiple input messages sent from the terminal device 20 used by the same user located in the same partition during the period when the air conditioner 10 was controlled by the same set value refer to input messages containing the date and time corresponding to the period during which the air conditioner 10 was controlled by the same set value, and are input messages associated with the same user ID containing location information indicating the location contained in the same partition.

[0177] In addition, outliers are, for example, temperature or cold sensation values ​​that are above a predetermined value and are calculated from the average value of temperature or cold sensation values ​​from multiple input information (temperature or cold sensation information) sent from the terminal device 20 of the same user located in the same zone during the operation of the air conditioner 10 controlled with the same set value. However, any value that is determined based on the distribution of the temperature or cold sensation values ​​is acceptable.

[0178] As described above, in this embodiment, by excluding input information containing temperature and coldness information that represents temperature and coldness equivalent to outliers from the input information containing the same user ID (user identification information) in the collected input information, it is possible to reduce the impact of temperature and coldness variations of users based on various main reasons.

[0179] Furthermore, since the temperature / coolness information is input via the operating terminal device 20 as described in the first embodiment above, there is a possibility that the terminal device 20 may be mistakenly operated, resulting in the input of temperature / coolness information representing an unintentional temperature / coolness sensation (a temperature / coolness sensation different from the user's actual temperature / coolness sensation). In this embodiment, the impact of temperature / coolness sensations based on such operational errors (pressing errors, etc.) (i.e., outliers) can also be reduced.

[0180] In addition, in this embodiment, it is described that input information containing outliers is excluded from the total object, but it is also possible to combine the input information after correcting the outliers to match the temperature and coldness information (containing temperature and coldness values) contained in other input information (from the terminal device 20 used by the same user in the same zone during the operation of the air conditioner 10 controlled with the same setting value).

[0181] Furthermore, this embodiment assumes a configuration in which an adjustment unit 38 is added to the totalizing device 30 described in the first embodiment. In this configuration, for example, in Figure 8 The adjustment step 38 described above can be performed between the processing of step S2 and the processing of step S3.

[0182] Furthermore, this embodiment can also be applied to the second embodiment described above. In this case, the processing of the adjustment unit 38 described above is as follows: Figure 12 The process can be performed between step S23 and step S24.

[0183] According to at least one of the above embodiments, an information processing apparatus, information processing system, method, and program can be provided that can effectively utilize air conditioning-related information input to terminal devices used by multiple users.

[0184] While several embodiments of the invention have been described, these embodiments are illustrated by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments may be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims and their equivalents.

[0185] Furthermore, the above-described implementation methods can be summarized into the following technical solutions.

[0186] [Technical Solution 1]

[0187] An information processing apparatus includes: a collection unit that collects the input information based on the date and time and air conditioner information contained in the input information, the input information including location information indicating the indoor location of a user using a terminal device, temperature and coldness information indicating the user's temperature and coldness at the location, and the date and time on which the location information and the temperature and coldness information are input to the terminal device, the air conditioner information including the air conditioner's set value and the date and time on which the air conditioner's operation is controlled based on the set value; and a summing unit that sums the temperature and coldness information contained in the input information based on the location information contained in the collected input information, according to each zone obtained by dividing the indoor space.

[0188] [Technical Solution 2]

[0189] According to the above technical solution 1, the totaled temperature and coldness information is fed back to the control device that controls the operation of the air conditioner.

[0190] [Technical Solution 3]

[0191] According to the above technical solution 2, it also includes an analysis unit, which calculates the average value of the temperature and coldness sensation represented by the totaled temperature and coldness sensation information, and instructs the control device to update the indoor model used to determine the set value of the air conditioner based on the calculated average value.

[0192] [Technical Solution 4]

[0193] According to the above technical solution 3, it further comprises: a first storage unit that stores indoor information representing the layout of the room; and an estimation unit that, based on the indoor information stored in the first storage unit, estimates the surrounding area of ​​the room that is greatly affected by the air conditioning control performed by the air conditioner and the internal area that is less affected by the air conditioning control performed by the air conditioner, and the analysis unit instructs the control device to update the indoor model based on the estimated surrounding area and internal area.

[0194] [Technical Solution 5]

[0195] According to the above technical solution 4, a first weight is assigned to the surrounding area, and a second weight smaller than the first weight is assigned to the inner area. The analysis unit calculates the average value of the temperature sensation represented by the total temperature sensation information based on the first weight and the second weight.

[0196] [Technical Solution 6]

[0197] According to the above technical solutions 3 to 5, the collection unit collects the input information based on the update mode of the indoor model.

[0198] [Technical Solution 7]

[0199] According to the above technical solutions 1 to 6, a determination unit is also provided, which determines whether the air conditioner has malfunctioned based on the totaled temperature and coldness information.

[0200] [Technical Solution 8]

[0201] According to the above technical solutions 1 to 7, an adjustment unit is also provided, wherein the input information includes user identification information for identifying the user using the terminal device, and the adjustment unit excludes input information containing temperature and cold sensation information that represents temperature and cold sensation equivalent to outlier values ​​from the input information containing the same user identification information in the collected input information.

[0202] [Technical Solution 9]

[0203] According to the above technical solutions 1 to 8, it further comprises: a second storage unit for storing the input information; and a third storage unit for storing the air conditioner information.

[0204] [Technical Solution 10]

[0205] According to the above technical solutions 1 to 9, the input information is sent from multiple terminal devices used by multiple users.

[0206] [Technical Solution 11]

[0207] An information processing system is provided, comprising an information processing device and a control device for controlling the operation of an air conditioner. The information processing device includes: a collection unit that collects the input information based on the date and time and air conditioner information contained in the input information, the input information including location information indicating the indoor location of a user using a terminal device, temperature and coldness information indicating the user's temperature and coldness sensation at the location, and the date and time when the location information and the temperature and coldness sensation information are input to the terminal device; the air conditioner information including the air conditioner's set value and the date and time when the air conditioner's operation is controlled based on the set value; a aggregation unit that aggregates the temperature and coldness sensation information contained in the input information based on the location information contained in the collected input information, according to each zone obtained by dividing the indoor space; and an analysis unit that feeds back the aggregated temperature and coldness sensation information to the control device.

[0208] [Technical Solution 12]

[0209] According to the above technical solution 11, the air conditioner has multiple air outlets for blowing air in multiple directions, and the control device controls the air blown out from the multiple air outlets according to each of the multiple air outlets based on the location information and temperature and coldness information sent from the multiple terminal devices.

[0210] [Technical Solution 13]

[0211] A method includes the following steps: collecting the input information based on the date and time and air conditioner information contained in the input information, the input information including location information indicating the indoor location of a user using a terminal device, temperature and coldness information indicating the user's temperature and coldness at the location, and the date and time when the location information and the temperature and coldness information were input to the terminal device, the air conditioner information including the air conditioner's set value, and the date and time when the air conditioner was controlled to operate based on the set value; and summing the temperature and coldness information contained in the input information based on the location information contained in the collected input information, according to each zone obtained by dividing the indoor space.

[0212] [Technical Solution 14]

[0213] A program is provided for a computer to perform the following steps: collecting the input information based on the date and time and air conditioner information contained in the input information, the input information including location information indicating the indoor location of a user using a terminal device, temperature and coldness information indicating the user's temperature and coldness at the location, and the date and time when the location information and the temperature and coldness information were input to the terminal device, the air conditioner information including the air conditioner's set value, and the date and time when the air conditioner's operation was controlled based on the set value; and summing the temperature and coldness information contained in the input information based on the location information contained in the collected input information, according to each zone obtained by dividing the indoor space.

Claims

1. An information processing device, comprising: The collection unit collects the input information based on the date and time and air conditioner information contained in the input information. The input information includes location information indicating the indoor location of the user using the terminal device, temperature and coldness information indicating the user's temperature and coldness at the location, and the date and time when the location information and the temperature and coldness information are input to the terminal device. The air conditioner information includes the air conditioner's set value and the date and time when the air conditioner's operation is controlled based on the set value. The aggregation unit, based on the location information contained in the collected input information, aggregates the temperature and coldness information contained in the input information for each of the multiple zones obtained by dividing the indoor space into zones corresponding to the air outlets of the air conditioner. The determination unit calculates the average value of the temperature and coldness information represented by the total temperature and coldness information of each zone, i.e., the average value of the temperature and coldness of each zone, and determines whether the indoor model used to determine the setting value of the air conditioner needs to be updated based on the calculated average value of the temperature and coldness of each zone. as well as The analysis unit, upon determining that the indoor model needs updating, sends an update instruction for the indoor model to the control device that controls the operation of the air conditioner. The input information is sent from multiple terminal devices used by multiple users. When the current date and time coincide with the preset update period of the indoor model, the collection unit collects input information that meets at least one of the conditions of the included period and the set value of the air conditioner. The air conditioning system is capable of controlling the airflow direction of each air outlet. The setpoints of the air conditioner include at least a set temperature commonly set for all zones and an airflow direction set for each zone's corresponding air outlet. The indoor model is created by calculating the estimated temperature of each zone based on the air conditioner's set value, representing the influence of wind direction in each zone, and according to the environmental settings of that zone.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The first storage unit stores interior information representing the layout of the interior; and The estimation unit, based on indoor information stored in the first storage unit, estimates the peripheral areas within the room where the air conditioning control by the air conditioner has a small impact and the internal areas where the air conditioning control by the air conditioner has a large impact. Based on the estimated surrounding and interior areas, the analysis unit instructs the control device to update the indoor model.

3. The information processing device according to claim 2, The surrounding area is assigned a first weight, and the inner area is assigned a second weight that is greater than the first weight. The analysis unit calculates the average value of the temperature sensation represented by the totaled temperature sensation information based on the first weight and the second weight.

4. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, It also includes a determination unit, which determines whether the air conditioner has malfunctioned based on the totaled temperature and coldness information.

5. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, It also has an adjustment unit. The input information includes user identification information used to identify the user using the terminal device. The adjustment unit excludes input information containing temperature / cold sensation information that is equivalent to an outlier from the input information containing the same user identification information collected.

6. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: The second storage unit stores the input information; and The third storage unit stores the air conditioner information.

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