Air conditioner

Abstract

Provided is an air conditioner capable of suppressing operation stop at an undesired timing in order to update firmware. The air conditioner comprises: an air conditioning mechanism for conditioning air; a storage unit that stores firmware; a communication unit; and a control unit that executes the firmware to control the air conditioning mechanism, determines whether a retention condition is satisfied when the communication unit receives an instruction notification indicating that an operation for instructing the terminal to update the firmware has been performed, and retains the firmware to be updated when it is determined that the retention condition is satisfied.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner. This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-084187 filed in Japan on May 24, 2022, and the contents thereof are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses an air conditioner. The air conditioner has an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The storage unit of the indoor unit stores a control program and an update program downloaded from a server to the indoor unit. The stop unit of the indoor unit fully opens the electronic expansion valve after stopping the operation of the air conditioner. The update unit of the indoor unit updates the software of the indoor unit whose operation is stopped by the stop unit. The update unit updates the software of the indoor unit by replacing the update program with a control program and installing it. After the update unit updates the software, the start unit of the indoor unit restarts the compressor, and if the compressor restart fails, the compressor startup process is repeated until the compressor restarts successfully. In this way, the time from stopping the operation to restarting can be minimized (paragraphs 0010, 0021, and 0025 to 0028). Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-178810 Summary of the invention Technical Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the air conditioner disclosed in Patent Document 1, the operation may be stopped at an unexpected timing for software update.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of this problem. One object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioner that can suppress stopping of operation at an unexpected timing for updating firmware. Solutions for solving problems

[0006] An air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: an air conditioning mechanism that adjusts air; a storage unit that stores firmware; a communication unit; and a control unit that executes the firmware to control the air conditioning mechanism, and when the communication unit receives an indication notification indicating that an operation has been performed on a terminal to instruct the terminal to update the firmware, it is determined whether a retention condition is met, and when it is determined that the retention condition is met, the firmware is reserved for updating. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 It is a diagram schematically showing the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment. Figure 2This is a block diagram of an air conditioner included in the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 This is a block diagram of a server included in the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 This is a block diagram of a terminal included in the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment. Figure 5 This is a flowchart showing the flow of firmware update performed by the air conditioner included in the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment. Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing the flow of firmware update performed by the air conditioner included in the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment. Figure 7 1 is a sequence diagram showing processes performed by the air conditioner and the terminal when firmware update is on hold in the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment. Figure 8 This is a flowchart showing the flow of firmware update executed by the air conditioner included in the air conditioning system according to the second embodiment. Fig. 9 This is a graph showing a temporal change in indoor temperature when the firmware of the air conditioner included in the air conditioning system according to the second embodiment is updated during cooling. Fig.10 This is a graph showing temporal changes in indoor temperature when the firmware of the air conditioner included in the air conditioning system according to the second embodiment is updated during heating. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used for the same or equivalent elements, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0009] First embodiment 1.1 Air conditioning system Figure 1 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating an air conditioning system according to a first embodiment.

[0010] like Figure 1 As shown, the air conditioning system 1 according to the first embodiment includes an air conditioner 11 , a server 12 , and a terminal 13 .

[0011] The air conditioner 11 , the server 12 , and the terminal 13 are connected to a network 14 so as to be communicable, and communicate with each other via the network 14 .

[0012] The air conditioner 11 conditions the air and supplies the conditioned air into the room 21 . The air conditioner 11 performs cooling, heating, dehumidification, humidification, ventilation, air purification, etc. The air conditioner 11 executes the firmware 31 and operates according to the firmware 31 .

[0013] The air conditioner 11 receives update data 41 for updating the execution firmware 31 from the server 12, and after receiving the update data 41, sends an updateable notification 42 to the terminal 13. The updateable notification 42 is a notification for the terminal 13 to report that the firmware 31 can be updated. The air conditioner 11 may send the updateable notification 42 to the terminal 13 via the server 12, or may send the updateable notification 42 to the terminal 13 directly.

[0014] The air conditioner 11 receives a forced update instruction notification 43 from the terminal 13, and in conjunction with the reception of the forced update instruction notification 43, immediately updates the firmware 31 according to the received update data 41. The forced update instruction notification 43 is a notification indicating that a forced update instruction operation has been performed on the terminal 13. The forced update instruction operation is an operation that instructs the forced update of the firmware 31. The air conditioner 11 receives an update instruction notification 44 from the terminal 13, and in conjunction with the reception of the update instruction notification 44, timely updates the firmware 31 according to the received update data 41. The update instruction notification 44 is a notification indicating that an update instruction operation has been performed on the terminal 13. The update instruction operation is an operation that instructs the update of the firmware 31. When the air conditioner 11 receives an update reservation instruction notification 45 from the terminal 13, it reserves the update of the firmware 31. The update reservation instruction notification 45 is a notification that instructs the terminal 13 to perform the update reservation instruction operation. The update reservation instruction operation is an operation that instructs the update of the firmware 31 to be reserved. The air conditioner 11 may receive the forced update instruction notification 43 , the update instruction notification 44 , and the update hold instruction notification 45 from the terminal 13 via the server 12 , or may directly receive the forced update instruction notification 43 , the update instruction notification 44 , and the update hold instruction notification 45 from the terminal 13 .

[0015] The air conditioner 11 transmits an update start notification 46 to the terminal 13 in conjunction with the start of updating the firmware 31. The update start notification 46 is a notification for the terminal 13 to report that the update of the firmware 31 has started. When the air conditioner 11 reserves the update of the firmware 31, it transmits an update reservation notification 47 to the terminal 13. The update reservation notification 47 is a notification for the terminal 13 to report that the update of the firmware 31 is reserved. The air conditioner 11 may transmit the update start notification 46 and the update reservation notification 47 to the terminal 13 via the server 12, or may transmit the update start notification 46 and the update reservation notification 47 directly to the terminal 13.

[0016] The server 12 transmits the update data 41 to the air conditioner 11 .

[0017] The terminal 13 receives the update-enabled notification 42 from the air conditioner 11 , and reports that the firmware 31 is updatable in conjunction with the reception of the update-enabled notification 42 .

[0018] The terminal 13 accepts a forced update instruction operation, and in conjunction with the acceptance of the forced update instruction operation, sends a forced update instruction notification 43 to the air conditioner 11. The terminal 13 accepts an update instruction operation, and in conjunction with the acceptance of the update instruction operation, sends an update instruction notification 44 to the air conditioner 11. The terminal 13 accepts an update hold instruction operation, and in conjunction with the acceptance of the update hold instruction operation, sends an update hold instruction notification 45 to the air conditioner 11.

[0019] The terminal 13 receives the update start notification 46 from the air conditioner 11 and reports the start of firmware 31 update in conjunction with the reception of the update start notification 46. The terminal 13 receives the update hold notification 47 from the air conditioner 11 and reports the firmware 31 update hold in conjunction with the reception of the update hold notification 47.

[0020] The network 14 includes the Internet, and the server 12 is a cloud server.

[0021] 1.2 Air Conditioner Figure 2 This is a block diagram of an air conditioner included in the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment.

[0022] like Figure 2 As shown, the air conditioner 11 includes an air conditioning mechanism 51 , a storage unit 52 , a communication unit 53 , a human detection sensor 54 , a temperature sensor 55 , a humidity sensor 56 , and a control unit 57 .

[0023] The air conditioning mechanism 51 conditions the air and supplies the conditioned air into the room 21 .

[0024] like Figure 2 As shown, the air conditioning mechanism 51 includes an air supply unit 61 , an air direction adjustment unit 62 , and a refrigeration cycle 63 .

[0025] The air supply unit 61 supplies air into the room 21. The air supply unit 61 includes a fan, a fan motor that rotates the fan to generate air to be supplied to the fan, and the like.

[0026] The wind direction adjusting unit 62 adjusts the wind direction of the conveyed wind. The wind direction adjusting unit 62 includes a louver, a louver motor that adjusts the posture of the louver to adjust the wind direction of the wind sent to the louver, and the like.

[0027] The refrigeration cycle 63 adjusts the temperature of the air flowing by the blown wind. The refrigeration cycle 63 adjusts the temperature of the air flowing by exchanging heat between the air flowing and the refrigerant.

[0028] Thus, the air conditioning mechanism 51 can cool the air in the room 21 and can heat the air in the room 21 .

[0029] The storage unit 52 stores the firmware 31 and stores the update data 41 used to update the firmware 31 when the firmware 31 is updated. The storage unit 52 includes a memory, a storage, etc. The memory is a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), etc. The storage is a flash memory, etc.

[0030] The communication unit 53 is connected to the network 14, and communicates with the server 12 and the terminal 13 via the network 14. The communication unit 53 includes a wireless adapter or the like that is connected to the network 14 by wireless communication. The wireless communication is Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or the like.

[0031] The human detection sensor 54 detects whether there is a person in the room 21. The human detection sensor 54 detects infrared rays emitted by a person through an infrared sensor, and detects whether there is a person in the room 21 based on the detected infrared rays. The human detection sensor 54 may also detect whether there is a person in the room 21 based on other principles. For example, the human detection sensor 54 may also acquire an image of the room 21 through a camera, recognize an image of a person included in the acquired image, and detect whether there is a person in the room 21 based on the recognized image of the person.

[0032] The temperature sensor 55 detects the indoor temperature in the room 21 .

[0033] The humidity sensor 56 detects the indoor humidity in the room 21 .

[0034] The control unit 57 executes the firmware 31 to control the air conditioning mechanism 51. For example, the control unit 57 controls the air supply unit 61 to change the air volume of the air supplied to the room 21. In addition, the control unit 57 controls the wind direction adjustment unit 62 to change the wind direction of the wind. In addition, the control unit 57 controls the refrigeration cycle 63 to change the temperature of the air flowing through the wind. The control unit 57 controls the air conditioning mechanism 51 to make the detected indoor temperature close to the set temperature. The control unit 57 is composed of a processor. The processor is a central processing unit (CPU) or the like. A part of the control unit 57 can also be composed of a dedicated circuit.

[0035] The control unit 57 updates the firmware 31 according to the update data 41. For example, the control unit 57 updates the firmware 31 by deleting the firmware 31 stored in the storage unit 52 and writing the new firmware 31 into the storage unit 52. During the period when the control unit 57 updates the firmware 31, the firmware 31 cannot be executed to control the air conditioning mechanism 51. Therefore, during the period when the control unit 57 updates the firmware 31, the air conditioner 11 cannot be operated.

[0036] The control unit 57 can determine whether or not the hold condition is satisfied. The hold condition defines a timing for not stopping the operation of the air conditioner 11, that is, a timing for holding the update of the firmware 31. An example of the hold condition will be described later.

[0037] When receiving the forced update instruction notification 43 from the communication unit 53 , the control unit 57 updates the firmware 31 regardless of whether the hold condition is satisfied.

[0038] In addition, when the control unit 57 receives the update instruction notification 44 from the communication unit 53, it determines whether the reservation condition is satisfied. When the control unit 57 determines that the reservation condition is satisfied, it reserves the update of the firmware 31 and causes the communication unit 53 to send the update reservation notification 47 to the terminal 13. In this way, it is possible to suppress the operation of the air conditioner 11 from being stopped at an unexpected timing in order to update the firmware 31. On the other hand, when the control unit 57 determines that the reservation condition is not satisfied, it causes the communication unit 53 to send the update start notification 46 to the terminal 13 and update the firmware 31. As described above, the update reservation notification 47 is a notification for the terminal 13 to report that the update of the firmware 31 is reserved, but it can also be a notification for the terminal 13 to report the timing of updating the firmware 31. The timing of updating the firmware 31 is the timing of releasing the reservation of the update of the firmware 31, and is the timing when the reservation condition is no longer satisfied.

[0039] Furthermore, when receiving the update holding instruction notification 45 from the communication unit 53 , the control unit 57 holds the updating of the firmware 31 .

[0040] 1.3 Server Figure 3 This is a block diagram of a server included in the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment.

[0041] The server 12 is a computer or the like.

[0042] like Figure 3 As shown, the server 12 includes a processor 71, a memory 72, a storage 73, and a communication unit 74. The storage 73 can store a program 81 and store the update data 41.

[0043] The processor 71 is a CPU, a graphics processing unit (GPU), etc. The memory 72 is a RAM, a ROM, etc. The storage 73 is a solid state drive (SSD), a hard disk drive (HDD), etc. The processor 71 executes the program 81 loaded into the memory 72, and causes the computer or the like to operate as the server 12 constituting the air conditioning system 1. A part of the processing performed by the processor 71 can also be performed using a dedicated circuit.

[0044] The communication unit 74 communicates with the air conditioner 11 and the terminal 13 .

[0045] 1.4 Terminal Figure 4 This is a block diagram of a terminal included in the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment.

[0046] The terminal 13 is a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, a feature phone, or the like.

[0047] like Figure 4 As shown, the terminal 13 includes a processor 91, a memory 92, a storage 93, a communication unit 94, a reporting unit 95, and an operation unit 96. The storage 93 stores a program 101.

[0048] The processor 91 is a CPU, a GPU, etc. The memory 92 is a RAM, a ROM, etc. The storage 93 is an SSD, a HDD, etc. The processor 91 executes a program 101 loaded in the memory 92 to operate a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, a feature phone, etc. as a terminal 13 constituting the air conditioning system 1. A part of the processing executed by the processor 91 may be executed by a dedicated circuit.

[0049] The communication unit 53 communicates with the air conditioner 11 and the server 12 .

[0050] The notification unit 95 makes a notification. The notification unit 95 is a display, a lamp, a speaker, a buzzer, a vibrator, or the like.

[0051] The operation unit 96 receives an operation and is a touch panel, a button, a dial, a slider, a keyboard, a mouse, a track pad, or the like.

[0052] 1.5 Firmware Update Process Figure 5 and Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing a firmware update procedure executed by the air conditioner included in the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment.

[0053] Air conditioner 11 execution Figure 5 and Figure 6 Steps S101 to S114 shown in FIG.

[0054] In step S101, the control unit 57 determines whether the update data 41 can be used. At this time, the control unit 57 causes the communication unit 53 to send a usability notification request to the server 12. The sent usability notification request is a notification requesting notification of whether the update data 41 can be used. In addition, in response to the communication unit 74 of the server 12 receiving the usability notification request, the processor 71 of the server 12 determines whether the update data 41 can be used, and causes the communication unit 74 of the server 12 to send a usability notification to the air conditioner 11. The sent usability notification is a notification notifying whether the update data 41 can be used. The processor 71 of the server 12 determines that the update data 41 can be used when the update data 41 is stored in the memory 73 of the server 12, and determines that the update data 41 cannot be used when the update data 41 is not stored in the memory 73 of the server 12. In addition, the control unit 57 determines whether the update data 41 can be used based on the usability notification received by the communication unit 53. If it is determined that the update data 41 can be used, step S102 is executed. If it is determined that the update data 41 cannot be used, step S101 is executed again.

[0055] In step S102 , the control unit 57 causes the communication unit 53 to download the update data 41 from the server 12 , and stores the downloaded update data 41 in the storage unit 52 .

[0056] Through steps S101 and S102 , the control unit 57 waits without downloading the update data 41 until the update data 41 becomes available, and downloads the update data 41 after the update data 41 becomes available.

[0057] In the next step S103, the control unit 57 determines whether the current time belongs to the update time period. If it is determined that the current time belongs to the update time period, step S104 is executed. If it is determined that the current time does not belong to the update time period, step S103 is executed again. The update time period is a time period suitable for updating. Examples of the update time period are described later.

[0058] In step S104 , the control unit 57 causes the communication unit 53 to transmit the update-enabled notification 42 to the terminal 13 .

[0059] Through steps S103 and S104, the control unit 57 does not cause the communication unit 53 to send the update notification 42 before the current time belongs to the update time period, and waits, and after the current time belongs to the update time period, causes the communication unit 53 to send the update notification 42. Thus, the control unit 57 can send the update notification 42 to the communication unit 53 during the update time period.

[0060] In response to receiving the update-enabled notification 42 by the communication unit 94 of the terminal 13, the processor 91 of the terminal 13 causes the reporting unit 95 of the terminal 13 to report that the firmware 31 can be updated. The reporting is performed by displaying a message, an icon, etc. on a display, lighting a lamp, emitting a sound from a speaker, a buzzer, etc., vibrating a vibrator, etc.

[0061] Furthermore, when the processor 91 of the terminal 13 causes the reporting unit 95 of the terminal 13 to report that the firmware 31 can be updated and the operation unit 96 of the terminal 13 accepts the forced update instruction operation, the processor 91 of the terminal 13 causes the communication unit 94 of the terminal 13 to send the forced update instruction notification 43 to the air conditioner 11. When the processor 91 of the terminal 13 causes the reporting unit 95 of the terminal 13 to report that the firmware 31 can be updated and the operation unit 96 of the terminal 13 accepts the update instruction operation, the processor 91 of the terminal 13 causes the communication unit 94 of the terminal 13 to send the update instruction notification 44 to the air conditioner 11. When the processor 91 of the terminal 13 causes the reporting unit 95 of the terminal 13 to report that the firmware 31 can be updated and the operation unit 96 of the terminal 13 accepts the update hold operation, the communication unit 94 of the terminal 13 causes the communication unit 94 of the terminal 13 to send the update hold instruction notification 45 to the air conditioner 11.

[0062] In the next step S105, the control unit 57 determines whether the forced update instruction notification 43 is received by the communication unit 53. If it is determined that the forced update instruction notification 43 is received, step S106 is executed. If it is determined that the forced update instruction notification 43 is not received, step S108 is executed.

[0063] In step S106 , the control unit 57 causes the communication unit 53 to transmit the update start notification 46 to the terminal 13 .

[0064] In the next step S107 , the control unit 57 temporarily stops the control of the air conditioning mechanism 51 and temporarily stops the operation of the air conditioner 11 , and updates the firmware 31 according to the stored update data 41 .

[0065] Through steps S105 to S107, when the communication unit 53 receives the forced update instruction notification 43, the control unit 57 immediately causes the communication unit 53 to send the update start notification 46 and update the firmware 31, regardless of whether the hold condition is satisfied. Thus, the user can update the firmware 31 as needed, regardless of whether the hold condition is satisfied.

[0066] In step S108, the control unit 57 determines whether the update instruction notification 44 has been received by the communication unit 53. If it is determined that the update instruction notification 44 has been received, step S109 is executed. If it is determined that the update instruction notification 44 has not been received, step S113 is executed.

[0067] In step S109, the control unit 57 determines whether the holding condition is satisfied. If it is determined that the holding condition is satisfied, step S110 is executed. If it is determined that the holding condition is not satisfied, step S106 is executed.

[0068] In step S110 , the control unit 57 causes the communication unit 53 to transmit the update holding notification 47 to the terminal 13 .

[0069] The processor 91 of the terminal 13, in conjunction with the update reservation notification 47 received by the communication unit 94 of the terminal 13, causes the reporting unit 95 of the terminal 13 to report the reservation of updating the firmware 31. The notification is performed by displaying a message, an icon, etc. on a display, lighting a lamp, emitting a sound from a speaker, a buzzer, etc., vibrating a vibrator, etc.

[0070] In the next step S111, the control unit 57 determines whether the holding condition is satisfied. If it is determined that the holding condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S112. If it is determined that the holding condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S106.

[0071] In step S112, the control unit 57 determines whether the forced update instruction notification 43 is received by the communication unit 53. If it is determined that the forced update instruction notification 43 is received, step S106 is executed. If it is determined that the forced update instruction notification 43 is not received, step S111 is executed.

[0072] From step S108 to step S112, the control unit 57 sends the update reservation notification 47 to the communication unit 53 when it is determined that the update instruction notification 44 is received by the communication unit 53 and the reservation condition is satisfied, and repeatedly determines whether the reservation condition is satisfied until it is determined that the reservation condition is not satisfied or the communication unit 53 receives the forced update instruction notification 43. The control unit 57 reserves the updating of the firmware 31 during this period. In addition, when the control unit 57 determines that the reservation condition is no longer satisfied during the period of reserving the updating of the firmware 31, or when the communication unit 53 receives the forced update instruction notification 43, the communication unit 53 sends the update start notification 46 and updates the firmware 31.

[0073] In step S113, the control unit 57 determines whether the update holding instruction notification 45 is received by the communication unit 53. If it is determined that the update holding instruction notification 45 is received, step S114 is executed. If it is determined that the update holding instruction notification 45 is not received, step S105 is executed.

[0074] In step S114, the control unit 57 determines whether the current time is in the next update time period. If it is determined that the current time is in the next update time period, step S104 is executed. If it is determined that the current time is not in the next update time period, step S114 is executed again.

[0075] In step S114, the control unit 57 does not make the communication unit 53 send the updateable notification 42 but waits before the current time belongs to the next update time period, and makes the communication unit 53 send the updateable notification 42 after the current time belongs to the next update time period. Thus, even if the communication unit 53 receives the update reservation instruction notification 45 and the control unit 57 reserves the update of the firmware 31, the communication unit 53 can send the updateable notification 42 again in the next update time period, and can provide an opportunity to send the forced update instruction notification 43, the update instruction notification 44 or the update reservation instruction notification 45 to the terminal 13.

[0076] Through steps S105, S108 and S113, the control unit 57 waits until the forced update indication notification 43, the update indication notification 44 or the update retention indication notification 45 is received by the communication unit 53, and performs processing corresponding to the notification received after receiving the forced update indication notification 43, the update indication notification 44 or the update retention indication notification 45.

[0077] 1.6 Examples of retention conditions As described above, the holding condition defines the timing for not stopping the operation of the air conditioner 11, that is, the timing for holding the update of the firmware 31.

[0078] The first example of the retention condition is the condition that the human detection sensor 54 detects that there is a person in the room 21. This can prevent the firmware 31 from being updated and the operation of the air conditioner 11 from being stopped when there is a person in the room 21. This can prevent the operation of the air conditioner 11 from being stopped and the room 21 from becoming uncomfortable when there is a person in the room 21.

[0079] The second example of the retention condition is a condition that the indoor temperature detected by the temperature sensor 55 is higher than the reference, a condition that the indoor humidity detected by the humidity sensor 56 is higher than the reference, a condition that the indoor temperature is lower than the reference, a condition that the indoor humidity is lower than the reference, etc. Thus, when the room 21 is in an uncomfortable state, the operation of the air conditioner 11 is stopped and the uncomfortable state in the room 21 is prevented from being maintained.

[0080] The third example of the retention condition is a condition that the difference between the indoor temperature detected by the temperature sensor 55 and the set temperature is greater than the reference. This can prevent the operation of the air conditioner 11 from being stopped when the room 21 is in an uncomfortable state and the uncomfortable state in the room 21 from being maintained.

[0081] A fourth example of the retention condition is a condition that the difference between the indoor temperature detected by the temperature sensor 55 and the outdoor temperature outside the room 21 is greater than the reference. This can prevent the room 21 from becoming uncomfortable when the operation of the air conditioner 11 is stopped. The outdoor temperature can be detected by a temperature sensor installed outside the room 21, or can be acquired via the network 14.

[0082] The fifth example of the reservation condition is the condition that the compressor included in the refrigeration cycle 63 is in operation. This can prevent the compressor from failing when the air conditioner 11 resumes operation.

[0083] The sixth example of the hold condition is the condition that the communication unit 53 is downloading update data other than the update data 41. This can prevent the air conditioner 11 from stopping for a long time due to the update of the firmware 31 based on the update data 41 and the update of the firmware 31 based on the update data other than the update data 41 being performed at different timings.

[0084] 1.7 Update time period As described above, after the current time falls within the update time period, the control unit 57 causes the communication unit 53 to transmit the update-enabled notification 42 and updates the firmware 31 .

[0085] The first example of the update time period is a time period when no one is in the room 21, or a time period estimated to be no one in the room 21. The former time period is, for example, a time period when no one is detected in the room 21 by the human detection sensor 54. The latter time period is estimated based on, for example, a past time period stored in the storage unit 52 or the server 12 when no one is detected in the room 21 by the human detection sensor 54.

[0086] The second example of the updated time period is the time period corresponding to the room 21. This time period is, for example, a time period that changes according to the room 21 and is estimated to be a time period when the air conditioner 11 is not in operation. For example, when the room 21 is a bedroom, the time period estimated to be a time period when the air conditioner 11 is not in operation is a daytime time period. When the room 21 is a living room, the time period estimated to be a time period when the air conditioner 11 is not in operation is a daytime time period on weekdays. When the update time period is a time period corresponding to the room 21, the processor 91 of the terminal 13 sets the category of the room 21 such as a bedroom or a living room according to the operation received by the operation unit 96 of the terminal 13, and causes the communication unit 94 of the terminal 13 to send the set category of the room 21 to the air conditioner 11. The control unit 57 determines the update time period based on the category of the room 21 received by the communication unit 53, and causes the storage unit 52 to store the determined time period.

[0087] The third example of the update time period is a time period estimated to be a non-operation time period of the air conditioner 11. This time period is estimated based on a past time period when the air conditioner 11 is not operated and stored in the storage unit 52 or the server 12, for example.

[0088] 1.8 Update Retention Notice As described above, the processor 91 of the terminal 13, in conjunction with the update hold notification 47 received by the communication unit 94 of the terminal 13, reports to the reporting unit 95 of the terminal 13 that the update of the firmware 31 is held. Thus, the user can recognize the reason why the update of the firmware 31 is not started despite the update instruction operation being performed on the terminal 13. In this way, it is possible to prevent the user from being confused.

[0089] The notification is made by displaying a message on the display to inform that the update of the firmware 31 is on hold. The displayed message is "update on hold", "waiting for update", "currently unable to update.", "update started according to the judgment of the air conditioner".

[0090] The displayed message may convey the reason for reserving the update of the firmware 31, that is, the satisfied reservation condition. For example, the displayed message is "There is someone in the room now, so the update cannot be made.", "The indoor temperature is high now, so the update cannot be made.", "The difference between the indoor temperature and the set temperature is large now, so the update cannot be made.", "The difference between the indoor temperature and the outdoor temperature is large now, so the update cannot be made.", etc.

[0091] The displayed message can also convey the recommended items to the user. For example, the displayed message is "There is someone in the room now, so it cannot be updated. Please check back in 10 minutes."

[0092] The displayed message can also convey the timing of firmware 31 being updated. For example, the displayed message is "There is someone in the room now, so it cannot be updated. Update after there is no one in the room.", "The room temperature is high now, so it cannot be updated. Update after the room temperature drops.", "The difference between the current room temperature and the set temperature is large, so it cannot be updated. Update after the difference becomes smaller.", "The difference between the current room temperature and the outdoor temperature is large, so it cannot be updated. Update after the difference becomes smaller." and other messages. In this way, the user can recognize the timing to start the update of firmware 31. In this way, situations that confuse the user can be suppressed.

[0093] The displayed message may inquire whether to update the firmware 31 after the retention condition is no longer satisfied. For example, the displayed message is "There is someone in the room now, so it cannot be updated. Can it be updated after no one is in the room?", "The room temperature is high now, so it cannot be updated. Can it be updated after the room temperature becomes low?", "The difference between the room temperature and the set temperature is large now, so it cannot be updated. Can it be updated after the difference becomes smaller?", "The difference between the room temperature and the outdoor temperature is large now, so it cannot be updated. Can it be updated after the difference becomes smaller?", etc. When the processor 91 of the terminal 13 receives an operation indicating that the firmware 31 is updated after the retention condition is no longer satisfied by the operation unit 96 of the terminal 13, the communication unit 94 of the terminal 13 sends a notification indicating that the operation has been performed to the air conditioner 11. When the communication unit 53 receives the notification, the control unit 57 updates the firmware 31 after the retention condition is no longer satisfied. On the other hand, when the operation is not received by the operation unit 96 of the terminal 13, the processor 91 of the terminal 13 causes the display to display a message conveying the timing of re-notification. The displayed message is, for example, a message such as "Notify again in 10 minutes".

[0094] It is also possible to inquire whether the displayed message indicates that the firmware 31 should be updated immediately even if the reservation condition is met. For example, the displayed message is "There is someone in the room now. Do you want to update immediately?", "The indoor temperature is high now. Do you want to update immediately?", "The difference between the indoor temperature and the set temperature is large now. Do you want to update immediately?", "The difference between the indoor temperature and the outdoor temperature is large now. Do you want to update immediately?", "The air conditioner is running now. Do you want to stop the operation and update immediately?", etc. In the case where the forced update instruction operation is accepted by the operation unit 96 of the terminal 13 even though the reservation condition is met, the processor 91 of the terminal 13 causes the communication unit 94 of the terminal 13 to send a forced update instruction notification 43 to the air conditioner 11. The control unit 57 immediately updates the firmware 31 when the communication unit 53 receives the forced update instruction notification 43. On the other hand, in the case where the communication unit 53 does not receive the forced update instruction notification 43, the control unit 57 updates the firmware 31 after the reservation condition is met.

[0095] 1.9 What to do with the air conditioner and terminal when the firmware update is on hold Figure 7 1 is a sequence diagram showing processes performed by the air conditioner and the terminal when firmware update is not allowed in the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment.

[0096] like Figure 7 As shown, after downloading the update data 41, the air conditioner 11 transmits an update-enabled notification 42 to the terminal 13 when the current time is within the update time slot.

[0097] When the terminal 13 receives the update-enabled notification 42 and accepts the update instruction operation, the terminal 13 transmits the update instruction notification 44 to the air conditioner 11 .

[0098] The air conditioner 11 repeatedly determines whether the holding condition is satisfied until it is determined that the holding condition is not satisfied when receiving the update instruction notification 44. The terminal 13 displays a message such as "update being held" while repeatedly determining whether the holding condition is satisfied.

[0099] When it is determined that the holding condition is not satisfied, the air conditioner 11 transmits an update start notification 46 to the terminal 13 and updates the firmware 31. While the firmware 31 is being updated, the terminal 13 displays a message such as "Updating".

[0100] 1.10 Modifications If the control unit 57 determines in step S103 that the current time is not within the update time period, the control unit 57 may cause the communication unit 53 to send a notification that causes the terminal 13 to report a proposal to update the firmware 31 during the update time period. For example, if the update time period is a time period corresponding to the room 21 and the room 21 is a bedroom, the control unit 57 may cause the communication unit 53 to send a notification that causes the terminal 13 to display a message such as "Can the firmware be updated at 12 noon?". In addition, if the update time period is a time period corresponding to the room 21 and the room 21 is a living room, the control unit 53 may cause the communication unit 53 to send a notification that causes the terminal 13 to display a message such as "Can the firmware be updated at 12 o'clock on Wednesday?".

[0101] The control unit 57 may also determine whether the current date is within the update period in step S103, and execute step S104 if the current date is within the update period, and execute step S103 again if the current date is not within the update period. The update period is a period suitable for updating. An example of the update period is a period in which the air conditioner 11 is estimated to be not operated for a long time. For example, the period is estimated based on a past period in which the air conditioner 11 is not operated and stored in the storage unit 52 or the server 12.

[0102] When the importance of updating the firmware 31 is low and the update is allowed to be delayed, the control unit 57 may cause the communication unit 53 to send a notification that causes the terminal 13 to report a proposal to update the firmware 31 in the off-season when the opportunity to operate the air conditioner 11 is reduced and to accept a reservation to update the firmware 31 in the off-season. For example, the control unit 57 may cause the communication unit 53 to send a notification that causes the terminal 13 to report a proposal to update the firmware 31 in the season when summer ends, the outdoor temperature gradually decreases, and the outdoor temperature is within the set temperature range and to accept a reservation to update the firmware 31 in the season.

[0103] Instead of causing the communication unit 53 to send the update start notification 46 in step S106 before updating the firmware 31 in step S107, the control unit 57 may cause the communication unit 53 to send the update start notification 46 after updating the firmware 31 in step S107. The update completion notification is a notification for the terminal 13 to report that the update of the firmware 31 has been completed.

[0104] The control unit 57 may also change the reporting method of the firmware 31 update according to the importance of the firmware 31 update. For example, the reporting method when the firmware 31 update is an update for improving security, the reporting method when the firmware 31 update is an update for correcting a fault, and the reporting method when the firmware 31 update is an update for adding a new function may be different from each other. In the case where the firmware 31 update is an update with high importance, a window containing a message pops up on the display, while on the other hand, in the case where the firmware 31 update is an update without high importance, the user cannot confirm the existence of the update unless he actively confirms the existence of the update.

[0105] When determining that new update data having a higher importance than the downloaded update data 41 is available after the update data 41 is downloaded by the communication unit 53, the control unit 57 may delete the downloaded update data 41 and cause the communication unit 53 to download the new update data.

[0106] The control unit 57 may change the reporting method of the firmware 31 being updateable according to the firmware to be updated. For example, when there are firmware for the indoor unit, firmware for the outdoor unit, and firmware for the wireless adapter as the firmware 31, the reporting method when the firmware for the indoor unit is updated, the reporting method when the firmware for the outdoor unit is updated, and the reporting method when the firmware for the wireless adapter is updated may be different from each other. The content of the message included in the window popped up on the display when the firmware for the indoor unit is updated, the content of the message included in the window popped up on the display when the firmware for the outdoor unit is updated, and the content of the message included in the window popped up on the display when the firmware for the wireless adapter is updated may be different from each other. When the firmware for the indoor unit or the firmware for the outdoor unit is updated, a window containing a message may be popped up on the display, and when the firmware for the wireless adapter is updated, a window containing a message may not be popped up on the display. Thus, when the firmware for the indoor unit or the firmware for the outdoor unit is updated, the operation of the air conditioner 11 must be stopped, but when the firmware for the wireless adapter is updated, there is a case where the operation of the air conditioner does not need to be stopped, and a report suitable for the case can be made.

[0107] When an existing update that must be performed before the update in order to add a new function has not been completed, the control unit 57 may cause the communication unit 53 to transmit a notification that causes the terminal 13 to report to the communication unit 53 to prompt the communication unit 53 to perform the existing update.

[0108] When the program 101 is a native application, an update interface for adding new functions may be installed in the program 101, and the user interface of the network application may be updated when the update is performed. This can reduce the load on the provider of the native application.

[0109] 2 Second Embodiment The following describes the differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment. As for the points not described, the second embodiment also adopts the same configuration as that adopted in the first embodiment.

[0110] Figure 8 This is a flowchart showing a firmware update flow performed by the air conditioner included in the air conditioning system according to the second embodiment.

[0111] In the second embodiment, the air conditioner 11 performs Figure 8 Steps S201 and S202 shown in FIG.

[0112] In step S201 subsequent to step S106 , the control unit 57 changes the set temperature from the first temperature T1 to the second temperature T2 .

[0113] In the next step S107 , the control unit 57 temporarily stops the control of the air conditioning mechanism 51 and temporarily stops the operation of the air conditioner 11 , and updates the firmware 31 according to the update data 41 .

[0114] In the next step S202 , the control unit 57 returns the set temperature from the second temperature T2 to the first temperature T1 .

[0115] When the air conditioning mechanism 51 performs refrigeration to cool the air, the second temperature T2 is a temperature lower than the first temperature T1. In this case, the control unit 57 updates the firmware 31 after lowering the set temperature from the first temperature T1 to the second temperature T2, and after updating the firmware 31, returns the set temperature from the second temperature T2 to the first temperature T1. Thus, the room 21 is precooled before the operation of the air conditioner 11 is temporarily stopped. Thus, it is possible to prevent the indoor temperature from becoming higher than the original set temperature, that is, the first temperature T1, during the period when the air conditioner 11 is temporarily stopped. Thus, it is possible to prevent the room 21 from becoming uncomfortable when the firmware 31 is updated.

[0116] Fig. 9 This is a graph showing a temporal change in indoor temperature when the firmware of the air conditioner included in the air conditioning system according to the second embodiment is updated during cooling.

[0117] like Fig. 9 As shown, the control unit 57 controls the air conditioning mechanism 51 in the first period P1 before changing the set temperature from the first temperature T1 to the second temperature T2 so that the indoor temperature approaches the first temperature T1. Therefore, the indoor temperature is maintained near the first temperature T1. The air conditioner 11 is operated in the first period P1.

[0118] The control unit 57 controls the air conditioning mechanism 51 in the second period P2 after the set temperature is changed from the first temperature T1 to the second temperature T2 and before the air conditioner 11 stops operating so that the indoor temperature approaches the second temperature T2 which is lower than the first temperature T1. Therefore, the indoor temperature starts to decrease from the vicinity of the first temperature T1. In the second period P2, the air conditioner 11 is operated. The timing when the operation of the air conditioner 11 is stopped is the timing when the indoor temperature reaches the third temperature T3 which is a predetermined temperature lower than the first temperature T1.

[0119] In the third period P3 after the operation of the air conditioner 11 is stopped and before the operation of the air conditioner 11 is restarted, the operation of the air conditioning mechanism 51 is stopped. Therefore, the indoor temperature rises from the third temperature T3. The length of the third period P3 is, for example, 3 minutes.

[0120] The control unit 57 controls the air conditioning mechanism 51 so that the indoor temperature approaches the first temperature T1 in the fourth period P4 after the operation of the air conditioner 11 is resumed. Therefore, the indoor temperature is maintained near the first temperature T1. In the fourth period P4, the air conditioner 11 is operated.

[0121] The second temperature T2 is set to maintain the indoor temperature below the first temperature T1 during the third period P3. Therefore, in the storage unit 52, the operating status of the air conditioner 11 and the amount of increase in the indoor temperature during a period having the same length as the length of the third period P3 are stored in association with each other. The operating status includes the outdoor temperature, the operating mode before the operation of the air conditioner 11 is stopped, the indoor temperature, the number of people in the room 21, and the like. The control unit 57 sets a temperature lower than the first temperature T1 by the amount of increase in the indoor temperature associated with the current operating status of the air conditioner 11 as the second temperature T2. For example, when the amount of increase in the indoor temperature associated with the current operating status of the air conditioner 11 is 1°C, the control unit 57 sets a temperature 1°C lower than the first temperature T1 as the second temperature T2.

[0122] When the air conditioning mechanism 51 performs heating and heats the air, the second temperature T2 is a temperature higher than the first temperature T1. In this case, the control unit 57 updates the firmware 31 after raising the set temperature from the first temperature T1 to the second temperature T2, and after updating the firmware 31, returns the set temperature from the second temperature T2 to the first temperature T1. Thus, the room 21 is preheated before the operation of the air conditioner 11 is temporarily stopped. Thus, it is possible to prevent the indoor temperature from becoming lower than the original set temperature, that is, the first temperature T1, during the period when the operation of the air conditioner 11 is stopped. Thus, it is possible to prevent the room 21 from becoming uncomfortable when the firmware 31 is updated.

[0123] Fig.10 This is a graph showing temporal changes in indoor temperature when the firmware of the air conditioner included in the air conditioning system according to the second embodiment is updated during heating.

[0124] When only the difference from the cooling operation of the air conditioner 11 is described, Fig.10 As shown, the control unit 57 controls the air conditioning mechanism 51 during the second period P2 so that the indoor temperature approaches the second temperature T2 higher than the first temperature T1. Therefore, the indoor temperature starts to rise from the vicinity of the first temperature T1. The timing when the operation of the air conditioner 11 is stopped is the timing when the indoor temperature reaches the third temperature T3 which is a predetermined temperature higher than the first temperature T1.

[0125] In the third period P3 after the operation of the air conditioner 11 is stopped and before the operation of the air conditioner 11 is restarted, the indoor temperature starts to drop from the third temperature T3.

[0126] The second temperature T2 is set so that the indoor temperature is maintained above the first temperature T1 during the third period P3. Therefore, in the storage unit 52, the operating status of the air conditioner 11 and the amount of reduction in the indoor temperature during a period having the same length as the length of the third period P3 are stored in association. The control unit 57 sets the second temperature T2 to a temperature that is higher than the first temperature T1 by the amount of reduction in the indoor temperature associated with the current operating status of the air conditioner 11. For example, when the amount of reduction in the indoor temperature associated with the current operating status of the air conditioner 11 is 1°C, the control unit 57 sets the second temperature T2 to a temperature that is 1°C higher than the first temperature T1.

[0127] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and may be replaced with a configuration that is substantially the same as the configuration shown in the above-described embodiments, a configuration that produces the same function and effect, or a configuration that can achieve the same purpose.

Claims

1. An air conditioner, characterized in that: include: an air conditioning mechanism that conditions the air; a storage unit storing firmware; Department of Communications; as well as A control unit executes the firmware to control the air conditioning mechanism. When the communication unit receives an indication notification indicating that an operation of instructing the terminal to update the firmware, it determines whether a retention condition is met. When it is determined that the retention condition is met, the firmware is reserved for updating.

2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit causes the communication unit to transmit a notification for causing the terminal to report that updating of the firmware is on hold when it is determined that the hold condition is satisfied.

3. The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The controller updates the firmware if it is determined that the holding condition is no longer satisfied while the update of the firmware is being held.

4. The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The controller causes the communication unit to transmit a notification for causing the terminal to report a timing for updating the firmware when it is determined that the holding condition is satisfied.

5. The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The control unit updates the firmware regardless of whether the holding condition is satisfied, when the communication unit receives a notification indicating that an operation instructing the terminal to forcibly update the firmware has been performed.

6. The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The air conditioning mechanism cools the air, The control unit controls the air conditioner so that the indoor temperature of the room supplied with the air approaches the set temperature, and updates the firmware after lowering the set temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature when the communication unit receives the instruction notification.

7. The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The air conditioning mechanism heats the air, The control unit controls the air conditioner so that the indoor temperature of the room supplied with the air approaches the set temperature, and updates the firmware after increasing the set temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature when the communication unit receives the instruction notification.

8. The air conditioner according to claim 6, characterized in that: The control unit returns the set temperature to the first temperature after updating the firmware.

9. The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The control unit causes the communication unit to transmit a notification for causing the terminal to report that the firmware can be updated during a time period when no one is in the room to which the air is supplied or during a time period when it is estimated that no one is in the room.

10. The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The control section causes the communication section to transmit a notification that causes the terminal to report that the firmware can be updated in a time period corresponding to a room to which the air is supplied.

Images