Air conditioning system

Abstract

An air conditioning system (1) is provided with an air conditioner (10), a remote monitoring device (21) that monitors the air conditioner (10), and a server device (31) that communicates with the remote monitoring device (21). The server device (31) is provided with a communication section (301) that performs transmission and reception of data with the remote monitoring device (21), and an analysis processing section (302) that performs processing related to monitoring of the air conditioner (10) by the remote monitoring device (21).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to air conditioning systems. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, it was known that adding new functions to an air conditioner would require updating the air conditioner's control software.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-56889 (Patent Document 1) discloses a system in which a user updates the control software of an air conditioner using data provided by the Internet or a memory card.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-56889

[0005] In the system disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-56889, when adding new functions to an air conditioner, users need to update the air conditioner's control software, thus placing a burden on users.

[0006] Furthermore, with the recent proliferation of IoT (Internet of Things) devices, there are air conditioning systems that use remote monitoring devices to monitor air conditioners and use server devices communicatively connected to the remote monitoring devices to collect data from the air conditioners. Even in such air conditioning systems, with the addition of new functions, users need to update the control software of both the air conditioner and the remote monitoring device, thus placing a burden on users. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This disclosure was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide an air conditioning system that does not impose a burden on users due to the upgrading of air conditioners and remote monitoring devices.

[0008] The air conditioning system disclosed herein includes: an air conditioner, a remote monitoring device for monitoring the air conditioner, and a server device for communicating with the remote monitoring device. The server device includes: a communication unit for sending and receiving data with the remote monitoring device; and a parsing and processing unit for performing processing related to monitoring of the air conditioner by the remote monitoring device.

[0009] According to the air conditioning system disclosed herein, the air conditioner and the remote monitoring device do not need to be updated separately. The processing related to the monitoring of the air conditioner by the remote monitoring device can be updated by updating the server device. Therefore, the update of the air conditioner and the remote monitoring device will not cause any burden to the user. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1.

[0011] Figure 2This diagram illustrates the configuration of the server device and the remote monitoring device in Implementation Method 1.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the functional configuration of the air conditioning system in Implementation Method 1.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the functional configuration of an air conditioning system in a modified example of implementation method 1.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the air conditioning system in Implementation Method 1.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the functional configuration of the air conditioning system in Implementation Method 2.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the air conditioning system in Implementation Method 2.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the functional configuration of the air conditioning system in Implementation Method 3.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the air conditioning system in Implementation Method 3.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the functional configuration of the air conditioning system in Implementation Method 4.

[0020] Figure 11 This is a diagram used to illustrate the input of the filter setting value in the air conditioning system of Embodiment 4.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the functional configuration of an air conditioning system in a modified example of implementation method 4.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the air conditioning system in Implementation Method 4. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Several embodiments will be described below, but the configurations to be described in each embodiment will be appropriately combined as intended from the outset of this application. Furthermore, the same or equivalent parts in the drawings will be labeled with the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0024] Implementation method 1.

[0025] While referring to Figures 1-5 The air conditioning system 1 of Embodiment 1 will be described. Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the air conditioning system 1 according to embodiment 1. (See diagram below.) Figure 1As shown, the air conditioning system 1 includes an air conditioner 10, a remote monitoring device 21, a server device 31, and a user device 70.

[0026] The remote monitoring device 21 is communicatively connected to at least one air conditioner 10. For example, the remote monitoring device 21 is communicatively connected to each of air conditioners 10A and 10B. Air conditioner 10A includes an outdoor unit 40A, an indoor unit 51A, and an indoor unit 52A, and is communicatively connected to a remote controller 60A. Air conditioner 10A, configured in this way, adjusts the temperature or humidity of air drawn into the indoor space based on the operation of the remote controller 60A, and supplies the adjusted air to the indoor space. Air conditioner 10B includes an outdoor unit 40B, an indoor unit 51B, and an indoor unit 52B, and is communicatively connected to a remote controller 60B. Air conditioner 10B, configured in this way, adjusts the temperature or humidity of air drawn into the indoor space based on the operation of the remote controller 60B, and supplies the adjusted air to the indoor space.

[0027] The remote monitoring device 21 monitors the air conditioner 10, collects air conditioning data related to the air conditioning of the air conditioner 10, and controls the air conditioner 10.

[0028] Server device 31 exists in a cloud computing manner between remote monitoring device 21 and user device 70. Remote monitoring device 21 is connected to router 80 via a LAN (Local Area Network). Server device 31 is communicatively connected to router 80 via network 90A. Through this connection, server device 31 can communicate with remote monitoring device 21. Additionally, server device 31 is communicatively connected to user device 70 via network 90B.

[0029] Server device 31 accumulates and stores air conditioning data of air conditioner 10 collected by remote monitoring device 21. This air conditioning data includes, for example, operating status corresponding to operation or shutdown, start time of operation, end time of operation, set temperature, set humidity, cooling / heating operation mode, indoor temperature, and indoor humidity. Additionally, the air conditioning data may also include data such as refrigerant temperature and refrigerant pressure measured by sensors installed on refrigerant piping, etc.

[0030] In addition, server device 31 outputs data corresponding to various settings input by user device 70 to remote monitoring device 21. Remote monitoring device 21 controls air conditioner 10 based on the data obtained from server device 31.

[0031] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the configuration of the remote monitoring device 21 and the server device 31 in Embodiment 1.

[0032] like Figure 2As shown, the remote monitoring device 21 includes a computing device 25, a storage device 26, and a communication device 27.

[0033] The computing device 25 is a computing entity (computer) that performs various processes according to various programs. The computing device 25 may include at least one of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and MPU (MultiProcessing Unit). Alternatively, the computing device 25 may also include volatile memory such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), or non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or flash memory. Furthermore, the computing device 25 may also be composed of processing circuitry.

[0034] Storage device 26 includes non-volatile storage devices such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive). Storage device 26 stores various programs and data referenced by computing device 25. Specifically, storage device 26 stores monitoring program 265 for monitoring air conditioner 10.

[0035] The communication device 27 transmits and receives data (information) with each of the air conditioner 10 and the server device 31 via wired or wireless communication. For example, the communication device 27 transmits and receives data with the air conditioner 10 via wired communication. Alternatively, the communication device 27 is connected to the network 90A via a LAN and router 80, thereby transmitting and receiving data with the server device 31. In this example, the remote monitoring device 21 uses one communication device 27 to communicate with each of the air conditioner 10 and the server device 31, but it is also possible to use multiple communication devices 27 to communicate with each of the air conditioner 10 and the server device 31.

[0036] like Figure 2 As shown, the server device 31 includes a computing device 35, a storage device 36, and a communication device 37.

[0037] The arithmetic unit 35 is a computing entity (computer) that performs various processes according to various programs. The arithmetic unit 35 may include at least one of a CPU, FPGA, GPU, and MPU. Alternatively, the arithmetic unit 35 may also include volatile memory such as DRAM or SRAM, or non-volatile memory such as ROM or flash memory. Furthermore, the arithmetic unit 35 may also be composed of arithmetic circuitry.

[0038] Storage device 36 includes non-volatile storage devices such as HDD or SSD. Storage device 36 stores various programs and data referenced by computing device 35. Specifically, storage device 36 stores parsing program 365 for performing processing (hereinafter also referred to as "parsing processing") related to monitoring of air conditioner 10 by remote monitoring device 21.

[0039] Communication device 37 transmits and receives data (information) with each of remote monitoring device 21 and user device 70 via wired or wireless communication. For example, communication device 37 transmits and receives data with remote monitoring device 21 via network 90A. Communication device 37 transmits and receives data with user device 70 via network 90B. Alternatively, in this example, server device 31 uses one communication device 37 to communicate with each of remote monitoring device 21 and user device 70, but it is also possible to use multiple communication devices 37 to communicate with each of remote monitoring device 21 and user device 70.

[0040] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the air conditioning system in Implementation Method 1. (Example) Figure 3 As shown, the remote monitoring device 21 has a communication unit 201 and an air conditioning communication management unit 202 as its main functional units. Each of the communication unit 201 and the air conditioning communication management unit 202 can be implemented by the arithmetic unit 25 executing the monitoring program 265 stored in the storage device 26.

[0041] The server device 31 includes a communication unit 301, a parsing and processing unit 302, a storage unit 303, and a data parsing unit 310 as its main functional units. Each of the communication unit 301, the parsing and processing unit 302, and the data parsing unit 310 can be implemented by executing a parsing program 365 stored in the storage device 36 through the arithmetic unit 35. In addition, the storage unit 303 is a functional unit corresponding to the storage device 36.

[0042] The server device 31 performs parsing processing to parse the air conditioning data of the air conditioner 10 obtained from the remote monitoring device 21, and stores the parsing results of the air conditioning data in a database.

[0043] Specifically, the remote monitoring device 21 obtains air conditioning data output from the air conditioner 10 through the air conditioning communication management unit 202. The remote monitoring device 21 outputs the air conditioning data to the server device 31 through the communication unit 201.

[0044] Server device 31 obtains air conditioning data output from remote monitoring device 21 via communication unit 301. Data parsing unit 310 of server device 31 outputs the air conditioning data obtained via communication unit 301 to parsing processing unit 302 and requests parsing of the air conditioning data from parsing processing unit 302. Server device 31 parses the air conditioning data via parsing processing unit 302.

[0045] Here, in Figure 3 The diagram illustrates an example where air conditioning data obtained from air conditioner 10 consists of 6 bytes (48 bits) of data containing "01", "C9", "03", "2D", "81", and "01". The first byte, "01", indicates the source address, i.e., the address of air conditioner 10. The second byte, "C9", indicates the destination address, i.e., the address of server device 31. The third byte, "03", indicates the command length. The fourth and fifth bytes, "2D81", indicate the command type, representing the operating state corresponding to "operation" or "stop" in this example. The sixth byte, "01", indicates the command content, representing "operation" as the operating state in this example.

[0046] When the parsing processing unit 302 obtains the air conditioning data as described above, it extracts the data from the obtained air conditioning data and stores it in the storage device 36 as a database, and converts the extracted data into a form that the storage device 36 stores as a database.

[0047] For example, the parsing processing unit 302 extracts the data "01" representing the source address from the air conditioning data and associates the extracted data "01" with "S_address" in database format representing the source address. The parsing processing unit 302 extracts the data "C9" representing the destination address from the air conditioning data and associates the extracted data "C9" with "d_address" in database format representing the destination address. The parsing processing unit 302 extracts the data "01" representing the operating status from the air conditioning data and associates the extracted data "01" with "DataID_Drive" in database format representing the operating status.

[0048] After parsing the air conditioning data as described above, the parsing processing unit 302 outputs parsed data containing the parsing results of the air conditioning data to the data parsing unit 310. In this example, the parsed data includes data "01" as "S_address", data "C9" as "d_address", and data "01" as "DataID_Drive". The server device 31 stores the parsed data obtained by the data parsing unit 310 from the parsing processing unit 302 as a database through the storage unit 303.

[0049] exist Figure 3 The example provided illustrates that air conditioning data may include data indicating the operating status corresponding to operation or shutdown, but air conditioning data may also include data indicating content other than the operating status.

[0050] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of an air conditioning system 1, a variation of embodiment 1. Figure 4 The image shows an example where air conditioning data obtained from air conditioner 10 consists of 6 bytes (48 bits) of data containing "01", "C9", "03", "35", "83", and "18". The first byte, "01", indicates the source address, i.e., the address of air conditioner 10. The second byte, "C9", indicates the destination address, i.e., the address of server device 31. The third byte, "03", indicates the command length. The fourth and fifth bytes, "3583", indicate the command type, which in this example represents indoor temperature. The sixth byte, "18", indicates the command content, which in this example represents 24 degrees Celsius as the indoor temperature.

[0051] The parsing processing unit 302 extracts the data "01" representing the source address from the air conditioning data and associates the extracted data "01" with "S_address" in database format representing the source address. The parsing processing unit 302 extracts the data "C9" representing the destination address from the air conditioning data and associates the extracted data "C9" with "d_address" in database format representing the destination address. The parsing processing unit 302 extracts the data "18" representing the indoor temperature from the air conditioning data and associates the extracted data "18" with "DataID_InletTemp" in database format representing the indoor temperature.

[0052] After parsing the air conditioning data as described above, the parsing processing unit 302 outputs parsed data containing the parsing results of the air conditioning data to the data parsing unit 310. In this example, the parsed data includes data "01" as S_address, data "C9" as "d_address", and data "18" as "DataID_InletTemp". The server device 31 stores the parsed data obtained by the data parsing unit 310 from the parsing processing unit 302 as a database through the storage unit 303.

[0053] In addition to operating status and indoor temperature, server device 31 can also convert various data included in the air conditioning data, such as operating start time, operating end time, set temperature, set humidity, cooling / heating operating mode, indoor humidity, refrigerant temperature, and refrigerant pressure, into the form of "DataID" and store them as a database in storage device 36.

[0054] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the air conditioning system 1 in Implementation Method 1. Figure 5 The processing steps shown (hereinafter referred to as "S"), performed by the server device 31, can be implemented by the processing unit 35 executing the parsing program 365. The processing performed by the remote monitoring device 21 can be implemented by the processing unit 25 executing the monitoring program 265.

[0055] like Figure 5 As shown, the air conditioner 10 outputs air conditioning data to the remote monitoring device 21 (S111). The remote monitoring device 21 obtains the air conditioning data output from the air conditioner 10 (S211). The remote monitoring device 21 outputs the air conditioning data to the server device 31 (S212).

[0056] Server device 31 acquires air conditioning data output from remote monitoring device 21 (S311). Server device 31 parses the air conditioning data through parsing processing unit 302 and generates parsed data containing the parsing results (S312). Server device 31 stores the parsed data in storage device 36 (S313).

[0057] Thus, according to the air conditioning system 1 of embodiment 1, the remote monitoring device 21 does not parse the air conditioning data obtained from the air conditioner 10, but outputs it to the server device 31 as is. Then, the server device 31 parses the air conditioning data of the air conditioner 10 obtained by the remote monitoring device 21, and stores the parsed data containing the parsing results as a database in the storage device 36.

[0058] Therefore, even if a new function is added to the air conditioner 10, or a new air conditioner 10 with the new function is connected to the remote monitoring device 21, the remote monitoring device 21 does not parse the air conditioning data obtained from the air conditioner 10, but outputs it to the server device 31 as is, thereby enabling the server device 31 to parse the air conditioning data. Thus, even if a new function is added to the air conditioner 10, or a new air conditioner 10 with the new function is connected to the remote monitoring device 21, the user does not need to update the remote monitoring device 21; simply updating the server device 31 is sufficient to store the data corresponding to the new function as a database in the storage device 36. Therefore, the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 1 does not impose a burden on the user due to updates to the air conditioner 10 and the remote monitoring device 21.

[0059] Implementation method 2.

[0060] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The air conditioning system 2 of Embodiment 2 will be described below. Hereinafter, only the parts of the air conditioning system 2 of Embodiment 2 that are different from the air conditioning system 1 of Embodiment 1 will be described.

[0061] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the air conditioning system 2 in embodiment 2. (See diagram for example.) Figure 6 As shown, the air conditioning system 2 of Embodiment 2 includes an air conditioner 10, a remote monitoring device 22, a server device 32, and a user device 70.

[0062] The remote monitoring device 22 of Embodiment 2 has the same hardware configuration as the remote monitoring device 21 of Embodiment 1, and includes a communication unit 201 and an air conditioning communication management unit 202 as its main functional units. Each of the communication unit 201 and the air conditioning communication management unit 202 can be implemented by the arithmetic unit 25 executing the monitoring program 265 stored in the storage device 26.

[0063] The server device 32 of Embodiment 2 has the same hardware configuration as the server device 31 of Embodiment 1, and includes a communication unit 301, a parsing processing unit 302, a user interface 304, and an operation unit 320 as its main functional units. Each of the communication unit 301, the parsing processing unit 302, the user interface 304, and the operation unit 320 can be implemented by the arithmetic unit 35 executing the parsing program 365 stored in the storage device 36.

[0064] Server device 32 performs parsing processing to obtain operation data for operating air conditioner 10 from user device 70, converts the operation data into operation commands that air conditioner 10 can recognize, and outputs the operation commands to remote monitoring device 22. Remote monitoring device 22 remotely operates air conditioner 10 by outputting the operation commands obtained from server device 32 to air conditioner 10.

[0065] Specifically, the user inputs operation data for operating the air conditioner 10 using the user device 70. The server device 32 obtains the operation data from the user device 70 through the user interface 304. The operation unit 320 of the server device 32 outputs the operation data obtained via the user interface 304 to the parsing and processing unit 302, and requests the generation of operation commands from the parsing and processing unit 302. The server device 32 converts the operation data into operation commands that the air conditioner 10 can recognize through the parsing and processing unit 302.

[0066] Here, in Figure 6 The diagram illustrates an example where operational data obtained from user device 70 includes "d_address" and "DataID_Drive". "d_address" represents the address of the destination, and in this example, it is associated with data "01" corresponding to the address of air conditioner 10. "DataID_Drive" represents the operating status corresponding to operation or shutdown, and in this example, it is associated with data "01" corresponding to operation.

[0067] When the parsing and processing unit 302 obtains the operation data as described above, it converts the obtained operation data into operation commands that the air conditioner 10 can recognize.

[0068] For example, the parsing processing unit 302 associates "C9", which represents the address of the server device 32, with the first byte of the operation command as the source address, "01", which represents the address of the air conditioner 10, with the second byte of the operation command as the destination address, "03", which represents the command length, with the third byte of the operation command, "0D01", which represents the start / stop operation, with the fourth and fifth bytes of the operation command as the command category, and "01", which represents operation, with the sixth byte of the operation command as the command content.

[0069] When the parsing and processing unit 302 generates an operation command based on the operation data as described above, it outputs the operation command to the remote monitoring device 22. The remote monitoring device 22 obtains the operation command output from the server device 32 via the communication unit 201. The remote monitoring device 22 outputs the operation command to the air conditioner 10 via the air conditioner communication management unit 202. The operation command output to the air conditioner 10 is represented by the parsing and processing unit 302 in a data form that the air conditioner 10 can recognize. As a result, the air conditioner 10 operates according to the user's instructions based on the operation command.

[0070] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the air conditioning system 2 in Implementation Method 2. Figure 7 The processing steps shown, where the server device 32 performs the processing, can be implemented by the computing device 35 executing the parsing program 365. The processing performed by the remote monitoring device 22 can be implemented by the computing device 25 executing the monitoring program 265.

[0071] like Figure 7 As shown, the user device 70 outputs operation data input by the user for operating the air conditioner 10 to the server device 32 (S721). The server device 32 obtains the operation data output from the user device 70 (S321). The server device 32 converts the operation data into operation commands through the parsing processing unit 302 (S322). The server device 32 outputs the operation commands to the remote monitoring device 22 (S323).

[0072] The remote monitoring device 22 receives the operation command output from the server device 32 (S221). The remote monitoring device 22 outputs the operation command to the air conditioner 10 (S222). The air conditioner 10 receives the operation command output from the remote monitoring device 22 (S121). The air conditioner 10 performs an action based on the operation command (S122).

[0073] Thus, according to the air conditioning system 2 of embodiment 2, the server device 32 converts the operation data input by the user into operation commands that the air conditioner 10 can recognize. Therefore, the remote monitoring device 22 can output the operation commands obtained from the server device 32 to the air conditioner 10 intact, without having to convert the operation data input by the user into operation commands.

[0074] In the above Figure 6 The example shown illustrates a user instructing the air conditioner 10 to operate or stop. However, even when a new function is added to the air conditioner 10, or when a new air conditioner 10 equipped with a new function is connected to the remote monitoring device 22, and the user inputs operation data corresponding to the new function (e.g., a new strong wind mode setting), the server device 32 can convert the user-input operation data into operation commands that the air conditioner 10 can recognize.

[0075] Therefore, even if a new function is added to the air conditioner 10, or a new air conditioner 10 with the new function is connected to the remote monitoring device 22, and the user inputs operation data corresponding to the new function, the remote monitoring device 22 will simply output the operation command obtained from the server device 32 to the air conditioner 10 as is. Thus, even if a new function is added to the air conditioner 10, or a new air conditioner 10 with the new function is connected to the remote monitoring device 22, the user does not need to update the remote monitoring device 22; updating the server device 32 is sufficient to enable the air conditioner 10 to perform the operation corresponding to the new function. Therefore, the air conditioning system 2 according to Embodiment 2 will not impose a burden on the user due to updates to the air conditioner 10 and the remote monitoring device 22.

[0076] In the air conditioning system 2 described above, an example was given of the operating data for operating the air conditioner 10 including data for starting or stopping the air conditioner 10. However, the operating data may also include other data. For example, the operating data may also include data for changing the set temperature, data for changing the set humidity, data for switching between cooling and heating operating modes, etc.

[0077] Additionally, the operation data may also include data for resetting the air conditioner 10 for any abnormalities. For example, based on user input, the user device 70 outputs operation data to the server device 32, containing data specifying the address of the air conditioner 10 that is the object to be reset and the meaning of resetting the abnormality. The server device 32, through the parsing processing unit 302, converts the operation data into operation commands and outputs the operation commands to the remote monitoring device 22. The remote monitoring device 22 outputs the operation commands from the server device 32 to the air conditioner 10 addressed by the operation data. The air conditioner 10 resets the abnormality based on the operation commands.

[0078] Additionally, the operational data may also include data used to enable any air conditioner 10 to send air conditioning data. As described above, the air conditioning data includes operating status corresponding to operation or stop, operation start time, operation end time, set temperature, set humidity, cooling / heating operation mode, indoor temperature, indoor humidity, refrigerant temperature, and refrigerant pressure, etc. This air conditioning data may also be data that allows the user to determine whether there are any abnormalities.

[0079] For example, based on user input, user device 70 outputs operation data to server device 32, including the address of air conditioner 10 designated as the target for obtaining air conditioning data and data (DataID) specifying the requested air conditioning data. Server device 32, through parsing processing unit 302, converts the operation data into an operation command and outputs the operation command to remote monitoring device 22. Remote monitoring device 22 outputs the operation command from server device 32 to air conditioner 10 addressed by the operation data. Based on the operation command, air conditioner 10 outputs the air conditioning data specified by the operation data to server device 32 via remote monitoring device 22. Then, server device 32, through the same processing as server device 31 in Embodiment 1, stores the air conditioning data of air conditioner 10 obtained via remote monitoring device 22 in storage device 36.

[0080] When the air conditioner 10 becomes abnormal, it will not operate until the abnormal state is reset. Previously, technical service personnel needed to go to the site to directly inspect the air conditioner 10 for abnormalities and reset the system. However, according to the air conditioning system 2 of Embodiment 2, the user, acting as a technical service personnel, can obtain and monitor the air conditioning data of the air conditioner 10 from a remote location by inputting operation data from the user device 70. This allows the user to determine whether the air conditioner 10 is in an abnormal state and to identify the cause of the abnormality.

[0081] Furthermore, according to the air conditioning system 2 of Embodiment 2, the user, acting as a technical service personnel, can reset the abnormal state of the air conditioner 10 even from a remote location by inputting operation data from the user device 70. For example, the user can reset the abnormal state of the air conditioner 10 by inputting operation data from the user device 70 from a remote location to restart the air conditioner 10. Additionally, the user can input a reset operation to eliminate the cause of the air conditioner 10's malfunction by inputting operation data from the user device 70. Therefore, the user, acting as a technical service personnel, does not need to go to the site to directly inspect and reset the abnormal state of the air conditioner 10, thus improving the maintenance efficiency of the air conditioner 10.

[0082] Alternatively, the remote monitoring device 22 can be configured to store data exchanged with the air conditioner 10 for a specified period (e.g., several days) via the storage device 26. In this way, even if a communication failure occurs between the remote monitoring device 22 and the server device 32, the remote monitoring device 22 can retain data obtained from the air conditioner 10, such as air conditioning data, for the specified period. Therefore, even if the air conditioner 10 malfunctions, the user can determine the cause of the malfunction during the period the data is retained by the storage device 26.

[0083] Implementation method 3.

[0084] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 The air conditioning system 3 of Embodiment 3 will be described below. Hereinafter, only the parts of the air conditioning system 3 of Embodiment 3 that are different from the air conditioning system 1 of Embodiment 1 will be described.

[0085] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the air conditioning system 3 in embodiment 3. (See diagram for example.) Figure 8 As shown, the air conditioning system 3 of embodiment 3 includes an air conditioner 10, a remote monitoring device 23, a server device 33, and a user device 70.

[0086] The remote monitoring device 23 of Embodiment 3 has the same hardware configuration as the remote monitoring device 21 of Embodiment 1, and includes a communication unit 201, an air conditioning communication management unit 202, and a storage unit 203 as its main functional units. Each of the communication unit 201 and the air conditioning communication management unit 202 can be implemented by executing a monitoring program 265 stored in the storage device 26 via the arithmetic unit 25. Furthermore, the storage unit 203 is a functional unit corresponding to the storage device 26.

[0087] The server device 33 of Embodiment 3 has the same hardware configuration as the server device 31 of Embodiment 1, and includes a communication unit 301, a parsing processing unit 302, a user interface 304, and a periodic setting management unit 330 as its main functional units. Each of the communication unit 301, the parsing processing unit 302, the user interface 304, and the periodic setting management unit 330 can be implemented by the arithmetic unit 35 executing the parsing program 365 stored in the storage device 36.

[0088] Server device 33 performs parsing processing to obtain periodic setting values ​​for periodically monitoring air conditioner 10 from user device 70, converts the periodic setting values ​​into periodic setting data that remote monitoring device 23 can recognize, and outputs the periodic setting data to remote monitoring device 23. Remote monitoring device 23 stores the periodic setting data obtained from server device 33 in storage device 26. Then, remote monitoring device 23 periodically monitors air conditioner 10 based on the periodic setting data.

[0089] The remote monitoring device 23 periodically monitors the air conditioner 10 based on periodic set data, thereby enabling... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As in the example, it determines whether the air conditioning data stored in storage device 36 is up-to-date.

[0090] For example, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4As in the example, the remote monitoring device 23 can store air conditioning data in the storage device 36 by outputting the air conditioning data obtained from the air conditioner 10 to the server device 33. However, in the event of a communication failure between the air conditioner 10 and the remote monitoring device 23, there is a concern that the remote monitoring device 23 may be unable to obtain the air conditioning data. Therefore, the remote monitoring device 23 is configured to periodically and actively obtain air conditioning data from the air conditioner 10 and output the obtained air conditioning data to the server device 33, thereby keeping the air conditioning data stored in the storage device 36 up-to-date.

[0091] Specifically, the user inputs a periodic setting value for periodically monitoring the air conditioner 10 using the user device 70. The server device 33 obtains the periodic setting value from the user device 70 via the user interface 304. The periodic setting management unit 330 of the server device 32 outputs the periodic setting value obtained via the user interface 304 to the parsing processing unit 302 and requests the generation of periodic setting data from the parsing processing unit 302. The server device 33, through the parsing processing unit 302, converts the periodic setting value into periodic setting data that can be recognized by the remote monitoring device 23.

[0092] Here, in Figure 8 The example shown illustrates a periodic setting value obtained from user device 70 that includes "timed communication destination address," "DataID," and "timed communication period." The "timed communication destination address" represents the address of the air conditioner 10, which is the object of monitoring by remote monitoring device 23. "DataID" represents the monitoring content of remote monitoring device 23, such as switching between operation / stop, switching between cooling / heating, setting indoor temperature, and setting indoor humidity. "Timed communication period" represents the monitoring period of remote monitoring device 23. In other words, the user can use user device 70 to specify the address of the air conditioner 10, the object of monitoring by remote monitoring device 23, the monitoring content, and the monitoring period as periodic setting values.

[0093] When the parsing and processing unit 302 obtains the aforementioned cycle setting value, it converts the obtained cycle setting value into cycle setting data that can be recognized by the remote monitoring device 23.

[0094] For example, the parsing processing unit 302 associates the user-specified data of the "timed communication destination address" with the "timed communication destination address" of the period setting data. The parsing processing unit 302 also associates the user-specified data of the "DataID" with the specified command of the air conditioning data in the period setting data. The remote monitoring device 23 can determine the monitoring content by referring to the specified command of the air conditioning data. The parsing processing unit 302 also associates the user-specified data of the "timed communication cycle" with the "timed communication cycle" of the period setting data.

[0095] When the parsing and processing unit 302 generates cycle setting data based on the cycle setting value as described above, it outputs the cycle setting data to the remote monitoring device 23. The remote monitoring device 23 obtains the cycle setting data output from the server device 33 via the communication unit 201. The remote monitoring device 22 stores the cycle setting data obtained from the server device 33 via the storage unit 203. The remote monitoring device 23 periodically monitors the air conditioner 10 based on the cycle setting data stored in the storage unit 203 via the air conditioning communication management unit 202.

[0096] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the air conditioning system 3 in implementation method 3. Figure 9 The processing steps shown, where the server device 33 performs the processing, can be implemented by the computing device 35 executing the parsing program 365. The processing performed by the remote monitoring device 23 can be implemented by the computing device 25 executing the monitoring program 265.

[0097] like Figure 9 As shown, the user device 70 outputs the periodic setting value for periodically monitoring the air conditioner 10, input by the user, to the server device 33 (S731). The server device 33 obtains the periodic setting value output from the user device 70 (S331). The server device 33 converts the periodic setting value into periodic setting data through the parsing processing unit 302 (S332). The server device 33 outputs the periodic setting data to the remote monitoring device 23 (S333).

[0098] The remote monitoring device 23 acquires the periodic setting data output from the server device 33 (S231). The remote monitoring device 23 stores the periodic setting data in the storage device 26 (S232). The remote monitoring device 23 monitors the air conditioner 10 based on the periodic setting data stored in the storage device 26 (S233).

[0099] Thus, according to the air conditioning system 3 of embodiment 3, the server device 33 converts the user-inputted cycle setting value into cycle setting data that can be recognized by the remote monitoring device 23. Therefore, the remote monitoring device 23 does not need to convert the user-inputted cycle setting value into cycle setting data itself, but can monitor the air conditioner 10 based on the cycle setting data obtained from the server device 33.

[0100] Therefore, even if a new function is added to the air conditioner 10, or a new air conditioner 10 with the new function is connected to the remote monitoring device 23, and the user inputs a cycle setting value corresponding to the new function, the remote monitoring device 23 can still monitor the air conditioner 10 based on the cycle setting data obtained from the server device 33. Thus, even if a new function is added to the air conditioner 10, or a new air conditioner 10 with the new function is connected to the remote monitoring device 23, the user does not need to update the remote monitoring device 23; they can monitor the air conditioner 10 based on the air conditioning data corresponding to the new function simply by updating the server device 33. Therefore, the air conditioning system 3 according to embodiment 3 will not burden the user due to updates to the air conditioner 10 and the remote monitoring device 23.

[0101] Furthermore, in air conditioning system 3, the user can input a periodic setting value from the user device 70, allowing the remote monitoring device 23 to periodically obtain multiple desired air conditioning data from the air conditioner 10 and store them in the storage device 26. Thus, users, such as maintenance personnel, can periodically obtain the necessary air conditioning data for maintenance via the remote monitoring device 23 by registering the desired air conditioning data using the periodic setting value. In other words, unlike air conditioning system 2 in embodiment 2 described above, where users do not need to obtain desired air conditioning data each time using operation data, they can obtain the necessary air conditioning data for maintenance periodically by registering the periodic setting value once.

[0102] Typically, in cloud services, as the processing volume of a cloud server, such as server device 33, increases, the utilization cost of the cloud server increases accordingly. Therefore, it is desirable to reduce the processing volume performed by the cloud server. For example, if, as in the air conditioning system 2 of Embodiment 2 described above, air conditioning data is monitored each time using operation data via server device 33 in the cloud, the processing volume performed by server device 33 increases, and therefore the utilization cost of server device 33 increases accordingly. In this regard, if, as in the air conditioning system 3 of Embodiment 3, desired air conditioning data is registered by setting a periodic setpoint, the processing volume of periodic monitoring via server device 33 can be suppressed, thereby reducing cloud utilization costs.

[0103] Implementation method 4.

[0104] Reference Figures 10-13 The air conditioning system 4 of Embodiment 4 will be described below. Hereinafter, only the parts of the air conditioning system 4 of Embodiment 4 that are different from the air conditioning system 1 of Embodiment 1 will be described.

[0105] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the air conditioning system 4 in embodiment 4. (See diagram for example.) Figure 10As shown, the air conditioning system 4 of embodiment 4 includes multiple air conditioners 10 (10A, 10B), a remote monitoring device 24, a server device 34, and a user device 70.

[0106] The remote monitoring device 24 of Embodiment 4 has the same hardware configuration as the remote monitoring device 21 of Embodiment 1, and includes a communication unit 201, an air conditioning communication management unit 202, and a storage unit 203 as its main functional units. Each of the communication unit 201 and the air conditioning communication management unit 202 can be implemented by executing a monitoring program 265 stored in the storage device 26 via the arithmetic unit 25. Furthermore, the storage unit 203 is a functional unit corresponding to the storage device 26.

[0107] The server device 34 of Embodiment 4 has the same hardware configuration as the server device 31 of Embodiment 1, and includes a communication unit 301, a parsing processing unit 302, a user interface 304, and a filter setting management unit 340 as its main functional units. Each of the communication unit 301, the parsing processing unit 302, the user interface 304, and the filter setting management unit 340 can be implemented by the arithmetic unit 35 executing the parsing program 365 stored in the storage device 36.

[0108] Server device 34 performs parsing processing to obtain filter setting values ​​from user device 70 for filtering air conditioning data output from air conditioner 10, converts the filter setting values ​​into filter setting data that remote monitoring device 24 can recognize, and outputs the filter setting data to remote monitoring device 24. Remote monitoring device 24 stores the filter setting data obtained from server device 34 in storage device 26. Then, remote monitoring device 24 filters the air conditioning data obtained from air conditioner 10 based on the filter setting data.

[0109] exist Figure 10 In the example, the remote monitoring device 24 obtains only the air conditioning data of the air conditioner 10 that the user needs from among the multiple air conditioners 10 (10A, 10B) under monitoring, which is allowed by the filter setting data, and stores it in the storage device 36.

[0110] For example, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4As in the example, the remote monitoring device 24 can store air conditioning data in the storage device 36 by outputting the air conditioning data obtained from the air conditioner 10 to the server device 34. However, if the remote monitoring device 24 obtains all the air conditioning data output from each of the multiple air conditioners 10 and outputs them to the server device 34, there is a concern that the communication volume will increase and the storage capacity of the storage device 36 will become insufficient. Therefore, the remote monitoring device 24 is configured to filter the air conditioning data that can be obtained from each of the multiple air conditioners 10, and only obtain the air conditioning data needed by the user, thereby suppressing the communication volume and reducing the amount of air conditioning data stored in the storage device 36.

[0111] Specifically, the user uses user device 70 to input filter settings for filtering air conditioning data output from each of the multiple air conditioners 10. Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating the input of the filter setting value in the air conditioning system 4 of embodiment 4. (See diagram below.) Figure 11 As shown, the display 75 of the user device 70 displays multiple checkboxes 77 for selecting the address of the air conditioner 10 from which air conditioner data retrieval is permitted. By checking the checkboxes 77 that correspond to the addresses of the air conditioners 10 from which air conditioner data is desired, the user can retrieve air conditioner data only from the desired air conditioner 10 and store it in the storage device 36. That is, the filter setting includes information on the address of at least one air conditioner 10 from among the monitored air conditioners 10 that is permitted to retrieve air conditioner data.

[0112] Return to Figure 10 The server device 34 obtains the filter setting values ​​from the user device 70 through the user interface 304. The filter setting management unit 340 of the server device 34 outputs the filter setting values ​​obtained through the user interface 304 to the parsing processing unit 302 and requests the generation of filter setting data from the parsing processing unit 302. The server device 34 converts the filter setting values ​​into filter setting data that can be recognized by the remote monitoring device 24 through the parsing processing unit 302.

[0113] Here, in Figure 10 The image shows an example where the filter settings obtained from user device 70 include the address of air conditioner 10 corresponding to pass or fail. Figure 11 In checkbox 77 shown, the air conditioner 10 corresponding to the address selected by the user is associated with the filter setting value, while the air conditioner 10 corresponding to the address not selected by the user is not associated with the filter setting value.

[0114] When the parsing processing unit 302 obtains the filter setting value as described above, it converts the obtained filter setting value into filter setting data that can be recognized by the remote monitoring device 24. For example, based on the filter setting value, the parsing processing unit 302 establishes an association between each of the addresses of the multiple air conditioners 10 and pass or fail in a data form that can be recognized by the remote monitoring device 24, thereby generating filter setting data.

[0115] When the parsing processing unit 302 generates filter setting data based on the filter setting values, it outputs the filter setting data to the remote monitoring device 24. The remote monitoring device 24 obtains the filter setting data output from the server device 34 via the communication unit 201. The remote monitoring device 24 stores the filter setting data obtained from the server device 34 via the storage unit 203. Then, the remote monitoring device 24 updates the filter table (not shown) for filtering based on the filter setting data.

[0116] The air conditioning communication management unit 202 includes a filtering unit 224. The remote monitoring device 24, through the filtering unit 224, obtains air conditioning data only from the air conditioner 10 corresponding to the address set as passable, based on filtering setting data stored in the storage unit 203, and outputs the obtained air conditioning data to the server device 34. More specifically, the remote monitoring device 24 does not have the function of switching between pass / no (i.e., effective / ineffective filtering) for each address, but filters the air conditioning data based on a filtering table when it obtains air conditioning data from the air conditioner 10. Thus, the remote monitoring device 24 updates the filtering table based on the filtering setting data, thereby applying the filtering settings.

[0117] Figure 10 This is an example of filtering based on specified addresses. Therefore, the filtering unit 224 compares the address of the air conditioner 10 with addresses that are set to be rejected by the filtering setting data (filter table). In addition, in the filtering setting data, any bit belonging to a specified range (e.g., 0 to 255) is pre-associated with each address. The filtering unit 224 only outputs the air conditioning data from the air conditioner 10 that is associated with the address "1" to the server device 34.

[0118] For example, in Figure 10 In this example, the remote monitoring device 24 does not obtain air conditioning data B from the air conditioner 10B corresponding to the address set to be blocked, but obtains air conditioning data A from the air conditioner 10A corresponding to the address set to be allowed, and outputs the obtained air conditioning data A to the server device 34. In this way, the remote monitoring device 24 can obtain air conditioning data only from the air conditioners 10 that are allowed by the user and output them to the server device 34.

[0119] exist Figure 10The example described is that the remote monitoring device 24 obtains air conditioning data of one of the multiple air conditioners 10 under monitoring, which is allowed by the filter setting data. However, the remote monitoring device 24 may also use other methods to filter the air conditioning data.

[0120] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the air conditioning system 4, a variation of embodiment 4. Figure 12 In the example, the remote monitoring device 24 obtains only the air conditioning data required by the user and stores it in the storage device 36 by acquiring the air conditioning data allowed by the filter setting data from among multiple air conditioning data in at least one air conditioner 10.

[0121] Specifically, the user uses filter settings to define which air conditioning data can be obtained from multiple air conditioning data output from at least one air conditioning unit 10 under monitoring. For example, the user uses filter settings to define which air conditioning data can be obtained from various types of air conditioning data, such as operating status, start time, end time, set temperature, set humidity, cooling / heating operating mode, indoor temperature, and indoor humidity. In other words, the filter settings include information on the air conditioning data that can be obtained from multiple air conditioning data output from at least one air conditioning unit 10 under monitoring.

[0122] Here, in Figure 12 The diagram illustrates an example where the filter settings obtained from user device 70 contain information about air conditioning data corresponding to pass or fail. Air conditioning data that the user allows to be obtained is associated with the filter settings, while air conditioning data that the user does not allow to be obtained is not associated with the filter settings.

[0123] When the parsing processing unit 302 obtains the filter setting value as described above, it converts the obtained filter setting value into filter setting data that can be recognized by the remote monitoring device 24. For example, based on the filter setting value, the parsing processing unit 302 generates filter setting data for passing or failing each setting of multiple air conditioning data in a data form that can be recognized by the remote monitoring device 24.

[0124] When the parsing processing unit 302 generates filter setting data based on the filter setting values, it outputs the filter setting data to the remote monitoring device 24. The remote monitoring device 24 obtains the filter setting data output from the server device 34 via the communication unit 201. The remote monitoring device 24 stores the filter setting data obtained from the server device 34 via the storage unit 203. Then, the remote monitoring device 24 updates the filter table (not shown) for filtering based on the filter setting data.

[0125] The remote monitoring device 24, through the filtering unit 224, obtains only the air conditioner data set as passable based on the filtering setting data stored in the storage unit 203, and outputs the obtained air conditioner data to the server device 34. More specifically, the remote monitoring device 24 does not have the function of switching between pass / fail (i.e., effective / ineffective filtering) for each air conditioner data, but filters the air conditioner data based on the filtering table when obtaining air conditioner data from the air conditioner 10. In this way, the remote monitoring device 24 updates the filtering table based on the filtering setting data, thereby applying the filtering settings.

[0126] Figure 12 This is an example of filtering specified air conditioning data. Therefore, the filtering unit 224 compares the air conditioning data with the air conditioning data that is set to be rejected by the filtering setting data (filter table). In addition, in the filtering setting data, any bit that belongs to a specified range (e.g., 0 to 255) is associated with each air conditioning data in advance, and the filtering unit 224 only outputs the air conditioning data associated with "1" to the server device 34.

[0127] For example, in Figure 12 In this example, the remote monitoring device 24 does not acquire the air conditioning data B, which is set to be blocked, from the air conditioning data output from the air conditioner 10A, but acquires the air conditioning data A, which is set to be allowed, and outputs the acquired air conditioning data A to the server device 34. In this way, the remote monitoring device 24 can acquire only the air conditioning data that is allowed by the user and output it to the server device 34.

[0128] Furthermore, data related to the operating status of the air conditioner 10, which has been filtered through the filtering setting data, is stored in the storage unit 203 of the remote monitoring device 24. The data related to the operating status of the air conditioner 10 stored by the remote monitoring device 24 is used to reflect the operation / stop or abnormal status of the air conditioner 10 in the indicator light (e.g., LED: Light Emitting Diode) provided by the remote monitoring device 24. That is, the data represented by the indicator light of the remote monitoring device 24 in the air conditioning data, regardless of whether it has been filtered through the filtering setting data, is stored in the storage unit 203 but not output to the server device 34.

[0129] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the air conditioning system 4 in implementation method 4. Figure 13 The processing steps shown, where the server device 34 performs the processing, can be implemented by the processing device 35 executing the parsing program 365. The processing performed by the remote monitoring device 24 can be implemented by the processing device 25 executing the monitoring program 265.

[0130] like Figure 13As shown, the user device 70 outputs the filter setting value input by the user for filtering air conditioning data to the server device 34 (S741). The server device 34 obtains the filter setting value output from the user device 70 (S341). The server device 34 converts the filter setting value into filter setting data through the parsing processing unit 302 (S342). The server device 34 outputs the filter setting data to the remote monitoring device 24 (S343).

[0131] The remote monitoring device 24 acquires the filter setting data output from the server device 34 (S241). The remote monitoring device 24 stores the filter setting data in the storage device 26 (S242). The remote monitoring device 24 filters the air conditioning data based on the filter setting data stored in the storage device 26, and acquires only the allowed air conditioning data (S243).

[0132] Thus, in the air conditioning system 4 according to embodiment 4, the server device 34 converts the filter setting value input by the user into filter setting data that can be recognized by the remote monitoring device 24. Therefore, the remote monitoring device 24 does not need to convert the filter setting value input by the user into filter setting data itself, but can filter the air conditioning data based on the filter setting data obtained from the server device 34.

[0133] Therefore, even if a new function is added to the air conditioner 10, or a new air conditioner 10 with the new function is connected to the remote monitoring device 24, and the user inputs a filter setting value corresponding to the new function, the remote monitoring device 24 can still filter the air conditioning data based on the filter setting data obtained from the server device 34. Thus, even if a new function is added to the air conditioner 10, or a new air conditioner 10 with the new function is connected to the remote monitoring device 24, the user does not need to update the remote monitoring device 24; filtering of the air conditioning data corresponding to the new function can be achieved simply by updating the server device 34. Therefore, the air conditioning system 4 according to embodiment 4 will not burden the user due to updates to the air conditioner 10 and the remote monitoring device 24.

[0134] In addition, maintenance data can be listed as air conditioning data that is highly likely to be filtered by the filter setting data. Maintenance data is data used by remote monitoring devices to monitor the operating status of the air conditioner 10 in more detail. For example, maintenance data includes data primarily used for maintenance, such as pressure values, temperature values, and power consumption values ​​measured by sensors installed on the air conditioner 10, etc. When detailed data such as pressure and current values ​​are not required, the user can filter this data by inputting filter setting values.

[0135] Furthermore, data related to functions such as humidity settings and left / right airflow direction, which are installed on some air conditioners 10 but do not correspond to the user interface screen of the user device 70, cannot be displayed / operated by the user even if obtained. Therefore, such data that does not correspond to the user interface screen can be filtered. In addition, the remote monitoring device can also automatically filter the obtained air conditioning data that corresponds to the user interface screen.

[0136] Furthermore, when an air conditioner 10, which is not the object of monitoring by the remote monitoring device, or the remote controller of the air conditioner 10, is connected to the remote monitoring device, air conditioning data from these air conditioners 10 that are not the object of monitoring can become the object of filtering. In addition, the remote monitoring device can also determine whether it is not the object of monitoring based on information obtained in the initial communication, and update the filter table based on the result.

[0137] In each of the above-described embodiments 1 to 4 of the air conditioning system, as described below, operating data, cycle settings, or filter settings can be input by the user. Specifically, the user device 70 accesses the UI (not shown) of the server device via the user interface 304 of the server device. The user first inputs the identification information (manufacturer number, etc.) of the remote monitoring device into the user device 70, thereby registering the identification information in the UI. The user device 70 displays a screen containing information about the air conditioner 10 obtained by the remote monitoring device corresponding to the identification information registered in the UI as a graphic. In the screen displayed at this time, the user inputs various setting data (operating data, cycle settings, or filter settings) of the remote monitoring device. The parsing and processing unit 302 of the server device converts the various setting data input by the user device 70 into a form that the remote monitoring device can read, and outputs it to the remote monitoring device via the communication unit 301.

[0138] In addition, various setting data (operation data, cycle setpoints, or filter setpoints) can be directly registered in the remote monitoring device in the air conditioning system. For example, various setting data can also be registered in the non-volatile area of ​​the remote monitoring device when the air conditioning system and the remote monitoring device are initially shipped from the factory.

[0139] In addition, as described below, users can also directly input various setting data from the remote monitoring device.

[0140] Specifically, the remote monitoring device enables users to set the same content as the remote control used to operate the air conditioner 10 (e.g., operation or stop, start time of operation, end time of operation, set temperature, set humidity, cooling / heating operation mode, indoor temperature, indoor humidity, etc.) as operating data.

[0141] The remote monitoring device can register a specified number (e.g., 1000 items) of combinations of "DataID", "timed communication destination address", and "timed communication cycle" as cycle settings. Users can freely set the "DataID", "timed communication destination address", and "timed communication cycle" from the remote monitoring device when they want to add monitoring data such as air conditioning data. Alternatively, the remote monitoring device can pre-prepare templates of combinations of "DataID", "timed communication destination address", and "timed communication cycle" according to the purpose or use of the monitoring; users can easily set the cycle by selecting these templates.

[0142] The remote monitoring device can also be configured to display, based on information about the air conditioner 10 obtained during the initial communication, which air conditioner 10 is connected to which address, allowing the user to arbitrarily filter out unwanted air conditioners 10. Alternatively, the remote monitoring device can also set a filter for an air conditioner 10 that is not connected to the remote monitoring device, based on information about the air conditioner 10 collected during the initial communication.

[0143] The remote monitoring device can also be configured to display, based on information obtained from the air conditioner 10 during initial communication, all the functions of the air conditioner 10 at a glance, allowing the user to filter out data other than those related to the desired functions. Alternatively, the remote monitoring device can prepare a template of filtering settings in advance, which the user can select to easily perform filtering, depending on the purpose or use of the monitoring.

[0144] (Summarize)

[0145] This disclosure relates to air conditioning systems 1 to 4. Air conditioning systems 1 to 4 include an air conditioner 10, remote monitoring devices 21 to 24 for monitoring the air conditioner 10, and server devices 31 to 34 for communicating with the remote monitoring devices 21 to 24. Server devices 31 to 34 include: a communication unit 301 for transmitting and receiving data with the remote monitoring devices 21 to 24; and a parsing and processing unit 302 for performing processing related to the monitoring of the air conditioner 10 by the remote monitoring devices 21 to 24.

[0146] Therefore, the air conditioning systems 1 to 4 do not update the air conditioner 10 and the remote monitoring devices 21 to 24, but update the server devices 31 to 34. This allows for the updating of the processing related to the monitoring of the air conditioner 10 by the remote monitoring devices 21 to 24, thus avoiding any burden on the user due to the updates of the air conditioner 10 and the remote monitoring devices 21 to 24.

[0147] like Figures 3-5As shown, in the air conditioning system 1 of Embodiment 1, the server device 31 further includes a storage device 36. The remote monitoring device 21 acquires air conditioning data related to the air conditioning of the air conditioner 10 and outputs the air conditioning data to the server device 31. The server device 31 parses the air conditioning data acquired from the remote monitoring device 21 through the parsing processing unit 302 and stores the parsing result of the air conditioning data in the storage device 36.

[0148] Therefore, even if a new function is added to the air conditioner 10, or a new air conditioner 10 with a new function is connected to the remote monitoring device 21, the user does not need to update the remote monitoring device 21. The user can store the data corresponding to the new function in the storage device 36 simply by updating the server device 31.

[0149] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in the air conditioning system 2 of Embodiment 2, the server device 32 obtains operation data for operating the air conditioner 10 from the user, converts the operation data into operation commands that the air conditioner 10 can recognize through the parsing and processing unit 302, and outputs the operation commands to the remote monitoring device 22. The remote monitoring device 22 outputs the operation commands obtained from the server device 32 to the air conditioner 10.

[0150] Therefore, even if a new function is added to the air conditioner 10, or a new air conditioner 10 with a new function is connected to the remote monitoring device 22, the user does not need to update the remote monitoring device 22. The air conditioner 10 can be made to perform actions corresponding to the new function simply by updating the server device 32.

[0151] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in the air conditioning system 3 of Embodiment 3, the server device 33 obtains the periodic setting value for periodically monitoring the air conditioner 10 from the user, converts the periodic setting value into periodic setting data that can be recognized by the remote monitoring device 23 through the parsing processing unit 302, and outputs the periodic setting data to the remote monitoring device 23. The remote monitoring device 23 periodically monitors the air conditioner 10 based on the periodic setting data obtained from the server device 33.

[0152] Therefore, even if a new function is added to the air conditioner 10, or a new air conditioner 10 with a new function is connected to the remote monitoring device 23, the user does not need to update the remote monitoring device 23. The user can monitor the air conditioner 10 for the air conditioner data corresponding to the new function simply by updating the server device 33.

[0153] like Figures 10-13As shown, in the air conditioning system 4 of Embodiment 4, the server device 34 obtains a filter setting value from the user for filtering air conditioning data related to air conditioning of the air conditioner 10. The parsing processing unit 302 converts the filter setting value into filter setting data that can be recognized by the remote monitoring device 24, and outputs the filter setting data to the remote monitoring device 24. The remote monitoring device 24 filters the air conditioning data obtained from the air conditioner 10 based on the filter setting data obtained from the server device 34.

[0154] Therefore, even if a new function is added to the air conditioner 10, or a new air conditioner 10 with a new function is connected to the remote monitoring device 24, the user does not need to update the remote monitoring device 24. The user can filter the air conditioner data corresponding to the new function simply by updating the server device 34.

[0155] like Figure 10 As shown, in the air conditioning system 4 of embodiment 4, the remote monitoring device 24 acquires the air conditioning data of the air conditioner 10 among the multiple air conditioners 10 under monitoring, which is allowed by the filter setting data.

[0156] Thus, by obtaining only the air conditioning data that the user needs from each of the multiple air conditioners 10, the user can suppress the amount of communication traffic and the amount of air conditioning data stored in the storage device 36.

[0157] like Figure 12 As shown, in the air conditioning system 4 of embodiment 4, the remote monitoring device 24 acquires the air conditioning data allowed by the filter setting data from a plurality of air conditioning data.

[0158] Thus, by obtaining only the air conditioning data that the user needs from among the multiple air conditioning data in at least one air conditioner 10, the user can suppress the amount of communication traffic and the amount of air conditioning data stored in the storage device 36.

[0159] The air conditioning systems of Embodiments 1 to 4 have been described above, but the configuration and functions of each air conditioning system can also be combined. For example, an air conditioning system may have all the configuration and functions of the air conditioning systems of Embodiments 1 to 4.

[0160] All points in the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the invention. The scope of this disclosure is defined by the claims rather than by the description of the above embodiments, and is intended to include all modifications equivalent to and within the scope of the claims.

[0161] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0162] 1, 2, 3, 4... Air conditioning system; 10, 10A, 10B... Air conditioner; 21, 22, 23, 24... Remote monitoring device; 25, 35... Computing device; 26, 36... Storage device; 27, 37... Communication device; 31, 32, 33, 34... Server device; 40A, 40B... Outdoor unit; 51A, 51B, 52A, 52B... Indoor unit; 60A, 60B... Remote control; 70... User equipment; 75... Display Device; 77... Checkbox; 80... Router; 90A, 90B... Network; 201, 301... Communication Department; 202... Air Conditioning Communication Management Department; 203, 303... Storage Department; 224... Filtering Department; 265... Monitoring Program; 302... Parsing Processing Department; 304... User Interface; 310... Data Parsing Department; 320... Operation Department; 330... Periodic Setting Management Department; 340... Filtering Setting Management Department; 365... Parsing Program.

Claims

1. An air conditioning system, characterized in that, have: Air conditioner; A remote monitoring device that monitors the air conditioner; as well as A server device that communicates with the remote monitoring device and includes a parsing processing unit that performs processing related to monitoring of the air conditioner by the remote monitoring device. The server device obtains filter settings from the user for filtering air conditioning data related to the air conditioning unit's air conditioning function. The parsing and processing unit converts the filter settings into filter setting data that the remote monitoring device can recognize, and then outputs the filter setting data to the remote monitoring device. The remote monitoring device updates the filter table used to filter the air conditioning data obtained from the air conditioner based on the filter setting data obtained from the server device, and filters the air conditioning data obtained from the air conditioner based on the updated filter table, and obtains the air conditioning data allowed by the filter setting data from a plurality of air conditioning data.

2. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The server device also includes a storage device. The remote monitoring device acquires the air conditioning data allowed by the filter settings and outputs it to the server device. The server device parses the air conditioning data obtained from the remote monitoring device through the parsing processing unit, and stores the parsing results of the air conditioning data in the storage device.

3. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The server device obtains operation data from the user for operating the air conditioner, converts the operation data into operation commands that the air conditioner can recognize through the parsing and processing unit, and outputs the operation commands to the remote monitoring device. The remote monitoring device will output the operation commands obtained from the server device to the air conditioner.

4. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The server device obtains the periodic setting value for periodically monitoring the air conditioner from the user, converts the periodic setting value into periodic setting data that the remote monitoring device can recognize through the parsing and processing unit, and outputs the periodic setting data to the remote monitoring device. The remote monitoring device periodically monitors the air conditioner based on the period setting data obtained from the server device.

5. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The remote monitoring device acquires the air conditioning data of the air conditioner among the multiple air conditioners being monitored, based on the filter setting data.

6. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The parsing processing unit performs at least one of the following processes as a process related to the monitoring of the air conditioner: parsing data obtained from the remote monitoring device, converting data used to operate the air conditioner into commands that the remote monitoring device can recognize, and converting set values ​​used to monitor the air conditioner into data that the remote monitoring device can recognize.

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