Air conditioner related equipment and air conditioner system

Abstract

An air-conditioning-related device is provided with: a first connection unit to which a wiring for communication and transmission of a strong current is connected; a second connection unit to which a wiring for communication, but not for power transmission, or a wiring for communication and transmission of weak current power is connected; and a connection circuit connecting the first connection portion and the second connection portion, the connection circuit including an insulating circuit that blocks power transmission and allows a signal related to communication to pass therethrough.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to air-conditioning related equipment and an air-conditioning system. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a technology for connecting an outdoor unit and an indoor unit via a dedicated communication line and transmitting signals. Patent document 2 discloses an air conditioner that communicates using a power line and a communication line. Patent document 3 discloses a communication processing control circuit that can use both AC power and DC power. Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-99020 Patent Document 2: International Publication No. 2020 / 174563 Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-159921 Summary of the invention Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0004] The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide an air-conditioning related equipment and an air-conditioning system, wherein signals can be mutually input into a communication network including wiring for communication and transmission of strong electricity and a communication network including wiring for the purpose of communication but not for the purpose of power transmission or wiring for communication and transmission of weak electricity. Technical solutions adopted to solve technical problems

[0005] An air conditioning-related device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: a first connection part, which is used for wiring connection for communication and transmission of strong electricity; a second connection part, which is used for wiring connection for the purpose of communication but not for power transmission or for communication and transmission of weak electricity; and a connecting circuit connecting the first connection part with the second connection part, the connecting circuit including an insulating circuit, which cuts off the power transmission and allows communication-related signals to pass through.

[0006] The air conditioning related equipment of one aspect of the present disclosure is preferably constructed so that the connecting circuit includes a communication circuit, and the insulating circuit is arranged at the front end of the communication circuit, wherein the communication circuit performs communication via the wiring that performs communication and transmits strong electricity and communication via the wiring that is used for the purpose of communication but not for the purpose of power transmission or via the wiring that performs communication and transmits weak electricity.

[0007] In the air conditioning related device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, it is preferable that the insulating circuit is provided between the communication circuit and the first connection portion, and the second connection portion is connected to the communication circuit without passing through the insulating circuit.

[0008] The air-conditioning-related equipment of one aspect of the present disclosure is preferably constructed to include: a power supply circuit, which receives high-voltage power transmitted from external air-conditioning-related equipment via the wiring that communicates and transmits high-voltage power or high-voltage power supplied from an AC power supply, and supplies main power to its own device; and a power receiving circuit, which receives low-voltage power transmitted from external air-conditioning-related equipment via the wiring for the purpose of communication but not for the purpose of power transmission or the wiring for communication and transmission of low-voltage power, and supplies auxiliary power to its own device.

[0009] The air conditioning related equipment of one aspect of the present disclosure is preferably constructed to include: a first receiving circuit, which receives a signal with a frequency lower than the frequency of the signal related to the communication via the wiring that communicates and transmits high electricity via the wiring that communicates and transmits high electricity; and a second receiving circuit, which receives a signal with a frequency lower than the frequency of the signal related to the communication via the wiring that communicates and transmits high electricity via the wiring that communicates but not for the purpose of power transmission or the wiring that communicates and transmits low electricity via the wiring that communicates but not for the purpose of power transmission or the wiring that communicates and transmits low electricity.

[0010] The air conditioning related equipment of one aspect of the present disclosure is preferably constructed to include a power supply circuit, which is connected to an AC power supply and supplies main power to the air conditioning related equipment, and the high electric power of the AC power supply is set to be transmitted to other air conditioning related equipment via the wiring that communicates and transmits the high electric power.

[0011] The air conditioning related equipment of one aspect of the present disclosure is preferably constructed to include: a first transmitting circuit, which transmits a signal with a frequency lower than the frequency of a signal related to communication via the wiring that performs communication and transmits high electricity; and a second transmitting circuit, which transmits a signal with a frequency lower than the frequency of a signal related to communication via the wiring that performs communication and transmits high electricity via the wiring that performs communication and transmits high electricity; and a second transmitting circuit, which transmits a signal with a frequency lower than the frequency of a signal related to communication via the wiring that performs communication but not power transmission or the wiring that performs communication and transmits low electricity via the wiring that performs communication but not power transmission or the wiring that performs communication and transmits low electricity.

[0012] The air conditioning related equipment of one aspect of the present disclosure is preferably configured such that the wiring for communicating and transmitting high electric power includes a power line, a common line and a signal line, the power line and the common line are used to transmit high electric power, and the communication circuit communicates via the signal line and the common line.

[0013] In the air conditioning-related device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, it is preferable that the insulating circuit includes a transformer or a capacitor.

[0014] The air conditioning system of one aspect of the present disclosure is preferably constructed to include: the above-mentioned first air conditioning related equipment; and second air conditioning related equipment, the second air conditioning related equipment is connected to the first air conditioning related equipment via the wiring that performs communication and transmits high electricity, the wiring for the purpose of communication but not for the purpose of power transmission, or the wiring that performs communication and transmits low electricity, and the first air conditioning related equipment and the second air conditioning related equipment communicate via the wiring that performs communication and transmits high electricity, the wiring for the purpose of communication but not for the purpose of power transmission, or the wiring that performs communication and transmits low electricity.

[0015] The air conditioning system of one aspect of the present disclosure is preferably constructed to include: the above-mentioned first air conditioning related equipment; the second air conditioning related equipment, the second air conditioning related equipment and the first air conditioning related equipment are connected via the wiring for communication and strong current transmission; and the third air conditioning related equipment, the third air conditioning related equipment and the first air conditioning related equipment are connected via the wiring for communication but not for power transmission or the wiring for communication and weak current transmission, the first air conditioning related equipment and the second air conditioning related equipment communicate via the wiring for communication and strong current transmission, and the first air conditioning related equipment and the third air conditioning related equipment communicate via the wiring for communication but not for power transmission or the wiring for communication and weak current transmission.

[0016] According to the present disclosure, signals can be mutually input to a communication network including wiring for communication and transmission of strong electricity and a communication network including wiring for the purpose of communication but not for power transmission or wiring for communication and transmission of weak electricity. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit according to the first embodiment. Figure 3This is a block diagram showing the configuration of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 It is a block diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioning system according to a comparative example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Hereinafter, an air-conditioning-related device and an air-conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. <Structure of air conditioning system> Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the structure of the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 1 is a block diagram showing the structure of the outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 of the first embodiment. The air conditioning system of the present embodiment includes a plurality of air conditioning related devices such as a centralized management device 1, an outdoor unit 2, an indoor unit 3, and a refrigerant switching device 4. The plurality of air conditioning related devices are connected via a plurality of types of wiring L. The air conditioning related devices are not limited to the above devices, and include, for example, various devices related to air conditioning (air conditioning) such as a ventilation device, a remote controller (remote controller), a communication device, or a control device.

[0019] The wiring L that connects the air-conditioning related equipment includes: wiring L for communication and transmission of strong electric power (hereinafter referred to as strong electric power line L1); wiring L for communication and transmission of weak electric power (hereinafter referred to as weak electric power line L2); and wiring L for the purpose of communication but not for the purpose of power transmission (hereinafter referred to as communication dedicated line). Strong electric power line L1 is the wiring L that transmits the electric power required to operate the drive system such as the refrigerant circuit. The weak electric power line L2 is the wiring L that transmits the electric power required to operate the control system, for example. In Figure 1 In the example shown, a plurality of air-conditioning related devices are connected via a strong power line L1 and a weak power line L2.

[0020] The plurality of outdoor units 2 are connected to the central management device 1 in a daisy-chain manner via the weak power line L2. The central management device 1 and the outdoor units 2 can communicate via the weak power line L2.

[0021] The plurality of indoor units 3 are connected to the first outdoor unit 2 via a high-power power line L1. The outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 communicate with each other via the high-power power line L1, and high-power is supplied to the indoor unit 3. The first outdoor unit 2 and the plurality of indoor units 3 constitute a system (for example, a refrigerant circuit).

[0022] The plurality of indoor units 3 are connected to the second outdoor unit 2 in a daisy chain manner via the weak power line L2. The second outdoor unit 2 and the indoor units 3 can communicate via the weak power line L2. The second outdoor unit 2 and the plurality of indoor units 3 constitute one system.

[0023] The refrigerant switching device 4 is connected to the third outdoor unit 2 via the weak power line L2. The plurality of indoor units 3 are connected to the refrigerant switching device 4 in a daisy chain manner via the strong power line L1. The third outdoor unit 2 and the refrigerant switching device 4 can communicate via the weak power line L2. The refrigerant switching device 4 communicates with the indoor unit 3 via the strong power line L1, and supplies strong electric power to the indoor unit 3. The third outdoor unit 2 can communicate with the indoor unit 3 via the weak power line L2 and the strong power line L1. The third outdoor unit 2, the refrigerant switching device 4, and the plurality of indoor units 3 constitute a system.

[0024] In the air conditioning system thus constructed, the outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 realize mutual input of signals to the strong power line L1 and the weak power line L2 by including the connection circuits 20 and 30 of the present embodiment. Specifically, the connection circuits 20 and 30 include insulation circuits 20b and 20b and communication circuits 20d and 30d that communicate with a prescribed common communication protocol, thereby realizing mutual input of signals. Figure 1 In FIG. 1 , “communication” between the outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 refers to the communication circuits 20d and 30d, and “insulation” refers to the insulation circuits 20b and 30b. The refrigerant switching device 4 also has the same circuit structure as the outdoor unit 2, and realizes mutual input of signals.

[0025] The functions of air conditioning related equipment that can realize mutual input are as follows. (1) The outdoor unit 2, the indoor unit 3, and the refrigerant switching device 4 can be connected to any of the communication network using the high-voltage power line L1, the communication network using the low-voltage power line L2, and the communication network using the dedicated communication line. (2) The outdoor unit 2, the indoor unit 3 and the refrigerant switching device 4 can be connected in a daisy chain manner using multiple different types of wiring L, and each air-conditioning related device can directly exchange signals through multiple types of wiring L. The air-conditioning related devices can communicate in a daisy chain manner in which various air-conditioning related devices are connected through the wiring L of the same system. Signals related to communication are transmitted from the weak power line L2 to the strong power line L1 via the insulating circuits 20b and 30b, and are transmitted from the strong power line L1 to the weak power line L2. Similarly, signals related to communication are transmitted from the dedicated communication line to the strong power line L1 via the insulating circuits 20b and 30b, and are transmitted from the strong power line L1 to the dedicated communication line. (3) The outdoor unit 2 , the indoor unit 3 , and the refrigerant switching device 4 can communicate with each other using a common communication protocol regardless of the type or system of the communication network.

[0026] <Outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 connected by strong power line L1> Figure 2The outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 shown are connected via a high-voltage power line L1. The high-voltage power line L1 includes a power line L11, a common line L12, and a signal line L13. The common line L12 is, for example, an electric wire connected to a reference potential. For example, the common line L12 is an electric wire grounded to 0V. The power line L11 is an electric wire for transmitting high-voltage power. The signal line L13 is an electric wire for communicating between air-conditioning related equipment. The outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 transmit high-voltage power via the power line L11 and the common line L12, and communicate via the common line L12 and the signal line L13. Since the communication-related signal is transmitted through the common line L12 connected to the reference potential and the signal line L13 , it is possible to prevent the communication-related signal from leaking to the external power system through the power line L13 .

[0027] The outdoor unit 2 includes: a first connection portion 21 for connecting the strong power line L1; a second connection portion 22 for connecting the weak power line L2 or the dedicated communication line; and a third connection portion 23 having a power terminal for connecting the AC power source 10. The outdoor unit 2 includes a connection circuit 20 for connecting the first connection portion 21 and the second connection portion 22.

[0028] The first connection part 21 of the outdoor unit 2 includes a socket to which the power line L11 of the high-voltage power line L1, the common line L12, and the signal line L13 are connected. The first connection part 21 includes more than two groups of sockets in order to be connected to other air-conditioning related equipment in a daisy chain manner. The corresponding terminals of each socket are connected to each other. That is, the first socket includes a terminal to which the power line L11 of the high-voltage power line L1 is connected, a terminal to which the common line L12 is connected, and a terminal to which the signal line L13 is connected. The second socket also includes a terminal to which the power line L11 of the high-voltage power line L1 is connected, a terminal to which the common line L12 is connected, and a terminal to which the signal line L13 is connected. The terminals of each socket to which the power line L11 is connected are connected to each other. The terminals of each socket to which the common line L12 is connected are connected to each other. The terminals of each socket to which the signal line L13 is connected are connected to each other.

[0029] The second connection part 22 of the outdoor unit 2 has a socket for connecting the weak power line L2 or the dedicated communication line. The second connection part 22 includes two or more sockets in order to connect with other air-conditioning related equipment in a daisy chain manner. The weak power line L2 and the dedicated communication line are two lines, and each socket includes a terminal for connecting these two lines. The corresponding terminals of each socket are connected to each other.

[0030] The indoor unit 3 includes: a first connection part 31 for connecting the strong power line L1; a second connection part 32 for connecting the weak power line L2 or the dedicated communication line; and a third connection part 33 for connecting the AC power source 10. The indoor unit 3 includes a connection circuit 30 for connecting the first connection part 31 and the second connection part 32.

[0031] The first connection part 31 of the indoor unit 3 has a socket connected to the power line L11 of the high-voltage power line L1, the common line L12, and the signal line L13. The first connection part 31 includes two or more sockets for daisy-chain connection with other air-conditioning related equipment.

[0032] The second connection part 32 of the indoor unit 3 has a socket for connecting the weak power line L2 or the dedicated communication line. The second connection part 32 includes two or more sockets in order to connect with other air-conditioning related equipment in a daisy chain manner. The weak power line L2 and the dedicated communication line are two lines, and each socket includes a terminal for connecting these two lines. The corresponding terminals of each socket are connected to each other.

[0033] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, the first connection portion 21 of the outdoor unit 2 is connected to the first connection portion 31 of the indoor unit 3 via a strong power line L1. The second connection portion 22 of the outdoor unit 2 is connected to the centralized management device 1 via a weak power line L2. The third connection portion 23 of the outdoor unit 2 is connected to the AC power source 10. The second connection portion 32 and the third connection portion 33 of the indoor unit 3 are not connected to the wiring L and the AC power source 10.

[0034] <Structure of the connection circuit 20 of the outdoor unit 2> The connection circuit 20 of the outdoor unit 2 is a circuit that connects the first connection part 21 of the outdoor unit 2 to the second connection part 22. The connection circuit 20 includes a strong current noise filter (strong current NF) 20a, an insulation circuit 20b, a band pass filter (BPF) 20c, a communication circuit 20d, a control circuit 20e, and a weak current filter (weak current NF) 20f. The connection circuit 20 also includes a first transmission circuit (strong current PS) 20g and a second transmission circuit (PS) 20h for system identification of the air conditioning system. The details of the first transmission circuit 20g and the second transmission circuit 20h are described later.

[0035] The communication circuit 20d is connected to the first connection part 21 of the outdoor unit 2 via a strong electric noise filter 20a, an insulating circuit 20b, and a bandpass filter 20c. In detail, an internal wiring is connected to the terminal of the first connection part 21 connected to the common line L12 and the signal line L13 of the strong electric power line L1, and the first connection part 21 is connected to the communication circuit 20d through the internal wiring. The strong electric noise filter 20a is a circuit that removes noise entering the strong electric power line L1. The strong electric noise filter 20a is, for example, a common mode noise filter. The insulating circuit 20b is a circuit that cuts off strong electric power and allows communication-related signals to pass through. The insulating circuit 20b includes a transformer Tr1 and a capacitor C1 connected in series. In addition, for the convenience of drawing, the internal wiring connecting the strong electric noise filter 20a and the communication circuit 20d is illustrated with a line, but the circuits are connected by two internal wirings. The two terminals of the first coil constituting the transformer Tr1 are connected to the strong electric noise filter 20a via the capacitor C1 respectively. The two terminals of the second coil constituting the transformer Tr1 are connected to the bandpass filter 20c. The bandpass filter 20c is a filter circuit that allows signal components transmitted / received between air-conditioning related devices to pass through and cuts off non-signal components. The bandpass filter 20c may also be a high-pass filter. In addition, the insulating circuit 20b may include either the transformer Tr1 or the capacitor C1.

[0036] The communication circuit 20d is connected to the second connection part 22 of the outdoor unit 2 via the weak current noise filter 20f. In detail, an internal wiring is connected to the terminal of the second connection part 22, and the second connection part 22 and the communication circuit 20d are connected via the internal wiring. The weak current noise filter 20f is a circuit for removing noise entering the weak current power supply line L2. In addition, for the convenience of drawing, the internal wiring connecting the second connection part 22, the weak current noise filter 20f and the communication circuit 20d is illustrated with a line, but each circuit is connected by two internal wirings.

[0037] As described above, the communication circuit 20d is connected to the first connection part 21 via the insulating circuit 20b, and is connected to the second connection part 22 in a manner not via the insulating circuit 20b. The communication circuit 20d can communicate with external air conditioning related equipment via the strong power line L1 connected to the first connection part 21, and can communicate with external air conditioning related equipment via the weak power line L2 connected to the second connection part 22 or the dedicated communication line. Figure 2 In the illustrated example, the communication circuit 20d can communicate with the indoor unit 3 via the strong power line L1, and can communicate with the central management device 1 via the weak power line L2.

[0038] The control circuit 20e of the outdoor unit 2 is a circuit that controls the transmission / reception of signals realized by the communication circuit 20d, thereby controlling the operation of the outdoor unit 2. The control device includes a processing unit that executes a control program and a storage unit. The processing unit includes, for example, a CPU (central processing unit) or an MPU (micro processing unit). The storage unit stores information used for the control program and control processing. The storage unit includes a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory.

[0039] <Configuration of the connection circuit 30 of the indoor unit 3> The connection circuit 30 of the indoor unit 3 is a circuit that connects the first connection part 31 of the indoor unit 3 to the second connection part 32. The structure of the connection circuit 30 of the indoor unit 3 is the same as that of the connection circuit 30 of the outdoor unit 2, so the detailed description is appropriately omitted. The connection circuit 30 includes a strong electric noise filter (strong electric NF) 30a, an insulation circuit 30b, a band pass filter (BPF) 30c, a communication circuit 30d, a control circuit 30e, and a weak electric filter (weak electric NF) 30f. The connection circuit 30 also includes a first receiving circuit (strong electric PD) 30g and a second receiving circuit (PD) 30h for system identification of the air conditioning system. The details of the first receiving circuit 30g and the second receiving circuit 30h are described later.

[0040] The communication circuit 30d is connected to the first connection part 31 of the indoor unit 3 via a strong electric noise filter 30a, an insulating circuit 30b, and a bandpass filter 30c. In detail, an internal wiring is connected to the terminal of the first connection part 31 connected to the common line L12 of the strong electric power line L1 and the signal line L13, and the first connection part 31 is connected to the communication circuit 30d through the internal wiring. The insulating circuit 30b is a circuit that cuts off the strong electric power and allows communication-related signals to pass through. The insulating circuit 30b includes a transformer Tr2 and a capacitor C2 connected in series. The two terminals of the first coil constituting the transformer Tr2 are respectively connected to the strong electric noise filter 30a via the capacitor C2. The two terminals of the second coil constituting the transformer Tr3 are connected to the bandpass filter 30c. The bandpass filter 30c is a filter circuit that allows the signal components sent / received between air-conditioning related equipment to pass through and cuts off the non-signal components.

[0041] The communication circuit 30d is connected to the second connection portion 32 of the indoor unit 3 via the weak electric noise filter 30f. Specifically, an internal wiring is connected to a terminal of the second connection portion 32, and the second connection portion 32 and the communication circuit 30d are connected via the internal wiring.

[0042] As described above, the communication circuit 30d is connected to the first connection part 31 via the insulating circuit 30b, and is connected to the second connection part 32 in a manner not via the insulating circuit 30b. The communication circuit 30d can communicate with external air conditioning related equipment via the strong power line L1 connected to the first connection part 31, and communicate with external air conditioning related equipment via the weak power line L2 or the communication dedicated line connected to the second connection part 32. Figure 2 In the illustrated example, the communication circuit 30d can communicate with the outdoor unit 2 via the high-voltage power supply line L1.

[0043] The control circuit 30e of the indoor unit 3 controls the transmission / reception of signals by the communication circuit 30d, thereby controlling the operation of the indoor unit 3. The storage unit stores a control program and information used for control processing.

[0044] <Transmitting and receiving circuits related to system identification> As described above, the outdoor units 2, indoor units 3 and refrigerant switching devices 4 belonging to multiple systems can communicate with each other in an input-capable manner. Therefore, it is impossible to identify which system the air-conditioning-related devices connected by communication belong to by communication using the communication circuits 20d and 30d.

[0045] To this end, the outdoor unit 2 of the present embodiment includes a first transmission circuit 20g and a second transmission circuit 20h as circuits for identifying the system, and the indoor unit 3 includes a first reception circuit 30g and a second reception circuit 30h.

[0046] The first transmission circuit 20g of the outdoor unit 2 is a circuit that transmits a detection signal having a frequency lower than the frequency of a signal related to communication via the high-power power line L1 via the high-power power line L1. The output terminal of the first transmission circuit 20g is connected to the first connection portion 21. Specifically, the first transmission circuit 20g is connected to the first connection portion 21 via internal wiring connected to the common line L12 and the signal line L13 of the high-power power line L1. The input terminal of the first transmission circuit 20g is connected to the control circuit 20e. The control circuit 20e controls the operation of the first transmission circuit 20g. For example, the first transmission circuit 20g transmits a pulse signal obtained by encoding the identifier of the outdoor unit 2.

[0047] The second transmission circuit 20h of the outdoor unit 2 is a circuit that transmits a detection signal having a frequency lower than the frequency of a signal related to communication via the dedicated communication line or the weak power line L2 via the dedicated communication line or the weak power line L2. The output terminal of the second transmission circuit 20h is connected to the second connection portion 22. The input terminal of the second transmission circuit 20h is connected to the control circuit 20e. The control circuit 20e controls the signal transmission of the second transmission circuit 20h. For example, the second transmission circuit 20h transmits a pulse signal obtained by encoding the identifier of the outdoor unit 2.

[0048] The first receiving circuit 30g of the indoor unit 3 is a circuit that receives a detection signal having a frequency lower than the frequency of a signal related to communication via the high-power power line L1 via the high-power power line L1. The input terminal of the first receiving circuit 30g is connected to the first connecting portion 31. Specifically, the first receiving circuit 30g is connected to the first connecting portion 31 via internal wiring connected to the common line L12 and the signal line L13 of the high-power power line L1. The output terminal of the first receiving circuit 30g is connected to the control circuit 30e. The control circuit 30e receives the detection signal via the first receiving circuit 30g. The control circuit 30e can obtain the identifier of the transmission source by decoding the detection signal.

[0049] The second receiving circuit 30h of the indoor unit 3 is a circuit that receives a detection signal having a frequency lower than the frequency of a signal related to communication via the dedicated communication line or the weak power line L2 via the dedicated communication line or the weak power line L2. The input terminal of the second receiving circuit 30h is connected to the second connecting portion 32 via the weak noise filter 30f. The output terminal of the second receiving circuit 30h is connected to the control circuit 30e. The control circuit 30e receives the detection signal via the second receiving circuit 30h. The control circuit 30e can obtain the identifier of the transmission source by decoding the detection signal.

[0050] In the composition Figure 1 A high-frequency pass filter is arranged between the multiple systems of the air-conditioning system shown. That is, a high-frequency pass filter is provided on the wiring L connecting the air-conditioning related equipment constituting the first system and the air-conditioning related equipment constituting the second system. The high-frequency pass filter is a filter circuit that allows the signal components sent / received between the air-conditioning related equipment to pass and cuts off the above-mentioned detection signal. By providing the high-frequency pass filter, the transmission range of the detection signal is limited to one system.

[0051] When the outdoor unit 2 performs system identification of the air-conditioning-related equipment connected to the high-voltage power line L1, the control circuit 20e of the outdoor unit 2 sends a detection signal to the first sending circuit 20g. The frequency of the detection signal is lower than the frequency of the signal component sent / received between the air-conditioning-related equipment, and will not pass through the high-frequency pass-through filter. The detection signal only reaches the air-conditioning-related equipment in the system defined by the high-frequency pass-through filter. When the control circuit 30e of the indoor unit 3 connected to the outdoor unit 2 in a daisy-chain manner receives the detection signal sent from the outdoor unit 2 through the first receiving circuit 30g, it sends a response signal to the outdoor unit 2 via the high-voltage power line L1. When the outdoor unit 2 receives the response signal through the communication circuit 20d, it identifies the outdoor unit 2 as the sending source of the response signal as an air-conditioning-related equipment in the same system as its own device. For other air-conditioning-related equipment, the air-conditioning-related equipment can also identify the collection of air-conditioning-related equipment in the same system by sending / receiving detection signals and response signals.

[0052] When the outdoor unit 2 performs system identification of the air-conditioning-related equipment connected to the weak power line L2 or the dedicated communication line, the control circuit 20e of the outdoor unit 2 sends a detection signal to the second transmission circuit 20h. The detection signal reaches only the air-conditioning-related equipment in the system defined by the high-frequency pass filter. When the control circuit 30e of the indoor unit 3 connected to the outdoor unit 2 in a daisy chain manner receives the detection signal sent from the outdoor unit 2 through the second receiving circuit 30h, it sends a response signal to the outdoor unit 2 via the weak power line L2 or the dedicated communication line. When the outdoor unit 2 receives the response signal through the communication circuit 20d, it identifies that the outdoor unit 2 as the source of the response signal is an air-conditioning-related equipment in the same system as its own device. For other air-conditioning-related equipment, the air-conditioning-related equipment can also identify the set of air-conditioning-related equipment in the same system by sending / receiving the detection signal and the response signal.

[0053] <Other Configurations of the Outdoor Unit 2 and the Indoor Unit 3> The outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 respectively include an outdoor unit and an indoor unit constituting a refrigerant circuit (not shown). The outdoor unit and the indoor unit are connected via a refrigerant pipe and a stop valve. The outdoor unit includes a compressor that sucks in refrigerant and compresses it before discharging it, a four-way reversing valve provided on the refrigerant pipe, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion mechanism that decompresses the refrigerant, and the like. The expansion mechanism is, for example, an expansion valve, a capillary tube, and the like. The indoor unit includes an indoor heat exchanger, and the like.

[0054] The outdoor unit 2 includes a noise filter (NF) 24 , a rectifying and smoothing circuit 25 , an inverter 26 a , an outdoor fan 26 b , a power supply circuit 26 c , and a low-pass filter (LPF) 27 .

[0055] The inverter 26a and the outdoor fan 26b are connected to the third connection part 23 of the outdoor unit 2 via the noise filter 24 and the rectifying and smoothing circuit 25. The noise filter 24 removes the noise generated in the connecting circuits 20 and 30 and the noise entering the strong power supply line L1. The rectifying and smoothing circuit 25 is a circuit that converts the AC power supplied from the AC power supply 10 or the external air conditioning related equipment into DC power. The inverter 26a is a circuit that converts the DC power rectified by the rectifying and smoothing circuit 25 into AC power. The outdoor unit is driven by the AC power converted by the inverter 26a. The outdoor fan 26b is driven by the DC power rectified by the rectifying and smoothing circuit 25. The outdoor fan 26b delivers wind to the outdoor heat exchanger, thereby promoting heat exchange.

[0056] The power supply circuit 26c is connected to the third connection portion 23 of the outdoor unit 2 via the noise filter 24. The power supply circuit 26c is, for example, a switching power supply circuit. The power supply circuit 26c receives AC power supplied from the AC power supply 10 or external air conditioning related equipment, and supplies main power to various devices of the outdoor unit 2 as its own device.

[0057] The third connection part 23 of the outdoor unit 2 is connected to the first connection part 31 via a low-pass filter 27. The low-pass filter 27 cuts off signals with a frequency higher than that of the AC power, preventing the signal from leaking from the first connection part 31 to the outside via the third connection part 33. When the AC power source 10 is connected to the third connection part 33 and the high-voltage power line L1 is connected to the first connection part 31, the high-voltage power of the AC power source 10 is transmitted to the external air-conditioning related equipment via the third connection part 33, the first connection part 31 and the high-voltage power line L1. Figure 2 In the example shown, high-voltage electric power is transmitted from the outdoor unit 2 to the indoor unit 3 via the high-voltage power supply line L1.

[0058] The indoor unit 3 includes a noise filter (NF) 34 , a rectifying and smoothing circuit 35 , an indoor fan 36 b , a power supply circuit 36 ​​c , low-pass filters (LPF) 37 and 38 , and a power receiving circuit 39 .

[0059] The indoor fan 36b is connected to the third connection portion 33 of the indoor unit 3 via a noise filter 34 and a rectifying and smoothing circuit 35. The noise filter 34 removes noise generated in the connection circuits 20 and 30 and noise entering the strong power supply line L1. The rectifying and smoothing circuit 35 is a circuit that converts AC power supplied from the AC power supply 10 or external air conditioning related equipment into DC power. The indoor fan 36b is driven by the DC power rectified by the rectifying and smoothing circuit 35. The indoor fan 36b delivers wind to the indoor heat exchanger, and delivers the wind after heat exchange to the room.

[0060] The power supply circuit 36c is connected to the third connection portion 33 of the indoor unit 3 via the noise filter 24. The power supply circuit 36c is, for example, a switching power supply circuit. The power supply circuit 36c receives AC power supplied from the AC power supply 10 or external air conditioning related equipment, and supplies main power to various devices of the indoor unit 3 as its own device.

[0061] The third connection portion 33 of the indoor unit 3 is connected to the first connection portion 31 via a low pass filter 37. The low pass filter 37 cuts off a signal having a frequency higher than that of the AC power to prevent the signal from leaking from the first connection portion 31 to the outside via the third connection portion 33.

[0062] The power receiving circuit 39 is connected to the second connection portion 32 of the indoor unit 3 via the weak current noise filter 30f and the low pass filter 38. The low pass filter 38 is a circuit that removes signals related to communication. The power receiving circuit 39 receives weak current power supplied from the outdoor unit 2, the refrigerant switching device 4, and other air conditioning related equipment via the weak current power line L2, and supplies auxiliary power to various circuits of the indoor unit 3 as its own device.

[0063] Furthermore, although the example in which the low-pass filter 38 and the power receiving circuit 39 for receiving weak power are provided in the indoor unit 3 has been described, the circuit for receiving weak power may be provided in the outdoor unit 2 .

[0064] <Outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 connected via weak power line L2> Figure 3 2 is a block diagram showing the structure of the outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 Same or similar. Figure 3 In the example shown, the second connection portion 22 of the outdoor unit 2 is connected to the second connection portion 32 of the indoor unit 3 via the weak power line L2. The second connection portion 22 of the outdoor unit 2 is connected to the centralized management device 1 via the weak power line L2. The third connection portion 33 of the indoor unit 3 and the third connection portion 23 of the outdoor unit 2 are connected to the AC power source 10. The first connection portion 21 of the outdoor unit 2 and the first connection portion 31 of the indoor unit 3 are not connected to the wiring L.

[0065] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, the outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 can send / receive signals via the weak power line L2. The centralized management device 1 and the outdoor unit 2 can send / receive signals via the weak power line L2. The centralized management device 1 and the indoor unit 3 can send / receive signals via the weak power line L2.

[0066] The second connection unit 22 of the outdoor unit 2 and the second connection unit 32 of the indoor unit 3 can also be connected via a dedicated communication line. In this case, the outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 can transmit and receive signals via the dedicated communication line.

[0067] <Refrigerant switching device 4> Figure 1 The structure involved in the communication of the refrigerant switching device 4 shown is the same as or similar to that of the outdoor unit 2 or the indoor unit 3, so the detailed description is omitted. Figure 1 In the example shown, the refrigerant switching device 4 is connected to the outdoor unit 2 via the weak power line L2, and is connected to the indoor unit 3 via the strong power line L1. The refrigerant switching device 4 and the outdoor unit 2 can send / receive signals via the weak power line L2. The refrigerant switching device 4 and the indoor unit 3 can send / receive signals via the strong power line L1. The outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 can send / receive signals via the weak power supply and the strong power line L1. The centralized management device 1 can send / receive signals via the weak power line L2 and the strong power line L1.

[0068] <Comparative Example with the Present Embodiment> Figure 4 : is a block diagram showing the structure of an air conditioning system of a comparative example. The air conditioning system of the comparative example is a system in which a plurality of air conditioning related devices are connected via a plurality of types of wiring L but signals cannot be input to each other. Figure 4 In the figure, “communication” indicates a dedicated strong-current communication circuit for communicating via the weak-current power line L2, and “strong-current communication” indicates a dedicated weak-current communication circuit for communicating via the strong-current power line L1.

[0069] The outdoor unit 121 of the comparative example is connected to multiple indoor units 131 via a strong power line L1. The outdoor unit 121 and the indoor unit 131 use a strong power communication circuit to send / receive signals through a communication protocol dedicated to strong power. The indoor unit 131 includes a weak power communication circuit. One indoor unit 131 communicates with the centralized management device 1 via a weak power supply through a weak power communication circuit. The indoor unit 131 and the centralized management device 1 send / receive signals through a communication protocol dedicated to weak power. The indoor unit 131 can communicate via the weak power line L2 and via the strong power line L1, but the strong power line L1 and the weak power line L2 cannot input signals to each other, and the communication protocols are also different. Therefore, the centralized management device 1 cannot communicate directly with the outdoor unit 121. The centralized management device 1 also cannot communicate directly with the indoor unit 131 that is not connected via the weak power line L2.

[0070] The outdoor unit 122 of the comparative example is connected to a plurality of indoor units 132 via a weak power line L2. The outdoor unit 122 and the indoor unit 132 use a weak power communication circuit and transmit / receive signals using a weak power dedicated communication protocol. The outdoor unit 122 cannot communicate directly with the outdoor unit 121.

[0071] As described above, in the air conditioning system of the comparative example, the communication network using the strong power line L1 and the communication network using the weak power line L2 are not connected in a manner that signals can be input to each other. Therefore, the other devices with which the air conditioning related devices can communicate are limited. In contrast, according to the air conditioning system of this embodiment, the communication network using the strong power line L1 and the communication network using the weak power line L2 are connected in a manner that signals can be input to each other. The communication protocol is also common. Therefore, each air conditioning related device can directly communicate across the strong power line L1 and the weak power line L2.

[0072] <Effects> According to the air conditioning related equipment and air conditioning system of this embodiment, the air conditioning related equipment can be connected in a manner that signals can be mutually input to the communication network including the strong power line L1 and the communication network including the weak power line L2 or the communication dedicated line.

[0073] In the connection circuits 20 and 30 of the air conditioning related equipment, the insulating circuits 20b and 30b are arranged between the first connection parts 21 and 31 for connecting the strong power line L1 and the second connection parts 22 and 32 for connecting the weak power line L2 or the communication dedicated line. Therefore, signals can be input to the strong power line L1 and the weak power line L2.

[0074] The communication circuits 20d and 30d of the outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 are connected to the high-voltage power line L1 via the insulating circuits 20b and 30b. The outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 can communicate via the high-voltage power line L1.

[0075] The communication circuits 20d and 30d of the outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 are connected to the weak power line L2 without passing through the insulating circuits 20b and 30b. The outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 can communicate via the weak power line L2.

[0076] The outdoor unit 2 , the indoor unit 3 , and the refrigerant switching device 4 can operate by receiving high-voltage power supplied from other air-conditioning-related equipment via the high-voltage power supply line L1 .

[0077] The outdoor unit 2 , the indoor unit 3 , and the refrigerant switching device 4 can operate by receiving weak electric power supplied from other air-conditioning related equipment via the weak electric power line L2 .

[0078] The outdoor unit 2 , the indoor unit 3 , and the refrigerant switching device 4 can supply high-voltage power to other air-conditioning-related equipment via the high-voltage power supply line L1 .

[0079] The outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 can transmit and receive low frequency signals for system identification and perform system identification. That is, the outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 can identify air conditioning related equipment in the same system as the system to which the outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 are connected.

[0080] Since communication is performed in a high frequency band, even if a part of the communication path fails, the air-conditioning-related devices normally connected via the wiring L can continue to communicate relatively stably.

[0081] Since high-speed communication is possible, the air-conditioning-related equipment can also send / receive information other than the control data of the air-conditioning system, for example, information related to maintenance and inspection can be sent / received.

[0082] The protocols for communication via the high-voltage power line L1, the low-voltage power line L2, and the dedicated communication line are shared, so the communication circuits 20d and 30d of the air-conditioning-related equipment can communicate with the air-conditioning-related equipment connected to each other using the shared communication protocol.

[0083] The insulating circuits 20 b and 30 b can be formed by a simple circuit including the capacitors C1 and C2 and the transformers Tr1 and Tr2 .

[0084] Air conditioning related equipment can send / receive signals using the common line L12 and the signal line L13, which are one of the conductors for transmitting strong electric power. The strong electric power line L1 can be used as a communication wire, and communication-related signals can be prevented from leaking to the power system.

[0085] Although the embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that various changes in form and details may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. At least a part of the above embodiments may be arbitrarily combined. Explanation of symbols

[0086] 1Centralized management device; 2 outdoor units; 3 indoor units; 4. Refrigerant switching device; 10AC power supply; 20. Connect the circuit; 20a strong electrical noise filter; 20b Insulated circuit; 20c bandpass filter; 20d communication circuit; 20e control circuit; 20f weak current noise filter; 20g first transmitting circuit; 20h second sending circuit; 21 a first connecting portion; 22 second connecting portion; 23 third connecting portion; 24 noise filter; 25 rectifier and smoothing circuit; 26a inverter; 26b outdoor fan; 26c power supply circuit; 27 low pass filter; 30 connect the circuit; 30a strong electrical noise filter; 30b Insulated circuit; 30c bandpass filter; 30d communication circuit; 30e control circuit; 30f weak current noise filter; 30g a first receiving circuit; 30h second receiving circuit; 31 first connecting portion; 32 second connecting portion; 33 third connecting portion; 34 noise filter; 35 rectifier and smoothing circuit; 36b Indoor fan; 36c power supply circuit; 37 low pass filter; 38 low pass filter; 39 receiving circuit; C1 capacitor; C2 capacitor; L wiring; L1 strong power line; L11 power cable; L12 common line; L13 signal line; L2 weak current power cable.

Claims

1. An air conditioning related device, characterized in that: include: A first connection portion, the first connection portion is used for wiring connection for communication and transmission of strong electricity; A second connection portion, the second connection portion is used for wiring for the purpose of communication but not for the purpose of power transmission or for wiring for communication and weak power transmission; as well as a connecting circuit connecting the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, The connection circuit includes an insulating circuit that cuts off power transmission and allows communication-related signals to pass therethrough.

2. The air conditioning related equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connection circuit includes a communication circuit, The communication circuit performs communication via the wiring for communication and transmission of strong electricity, and performs communication via the wiring for the purpose of communication but not for the purpose of power transmission or via the wiring for communication and transmission of weak electricity, The insulating circuit is arranged at the front section of the communication circuit.

3. The air conditioning related equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that: The insulating circuit is provided between the communication circuit and the first connection portion, and the second connection portion is connected to the communication circuit without passing through the insulating circuit.

4. The air conditioning related equipment according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: include: A power supply circuit that receives high-voltage power transmitted from external air-conditioning-related equipment via the wiring that communicates and transmits high-voltage power or high-voltage power supplied from an AC power supply, and supplies main power to its own device; as well as A power receiving circuit receives weak power transmitted from external air-conditioning related equipment via the wiring for communication but not for power transmission or the wiring for communication and weak power transmission, and supplies auxiliary power to its own device.

5. The air conditioning related equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that: include: a first receiving circuit that receives, via the wiring that performs communication and transmits strong electricity, a signal having a frequency lower than a frequency of a signal related to communication via the wiring that performs communication and transmits strong electricity; as well as A second receiving circuit, which receives a signal having a frequency lower than the frequency of a signal related to communication via the wiring for the purpose of communication but not for the purpose of power transmission or the wiring for communication and transmission of weak electricity.

6. The air conditioning related equipment according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: The air conditioning related equipment includes a power supply circuit, which is connected to an AC power supply to supply main power to the device itself. The high-voltage power of the AC power source is transmitted to other air-conditioning related equipment via the wiring that performs communication and transmission of high-voltage power.

7. The air conditioning related equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that: include: a first transmission circuit that transmits, via the wiring that performs communication and transmits strong electricity, a signal having a frequency lower than a frequency of a signal related to communication via the wiring that performs communication and transmits strong electricity; as well as A second transmitting circuit, which transmits a signal having a frequency lower than the frequency of a signal related to communication via the wiring for the purpose of communication but not for the purpose of power transmission or the wiring for communication and transmission of weak electricity.

8. The air conditioning related equipment according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that: The wiring for communication and transmission of strong electricity includes power lines, common lines and signal lines. The power line and the common line are used to transmit high electric power, and the communication circuit performs communication via the signal line and the common line.

9. The air conditioning related equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The insulating circuit includes a transformer or a capacitor.

10. An air conditioning system, characterized in that: include: The first air conditioning related device according to any one of claims 1 to 9; as well as a second air conditioning related device, the second air conditioning related device being connected to the first air conditioning related device via the wiring for communication and strong current transmission, or the wiring for communication but not for power transmission, or the wiring for communication and weak current transmission, The first air conditioning related device and the second air conditioning related device communicate with each other via the wiring for communication and transmission of strong electricity, the wiring for communication but not for power transmission, or the wiring for communication and transmission of weak electricity.

11. An air conditioning system, characterized in that: include: The first air conditioning related device according to any one of claims 1 to 9; as well as a second air conditioning-related device, the second air conditioning-related device being connected to the first air conditioning-related device via the wiring for performing communication and transmitting strong electricity; as well as a third air conditioning related device, the third air conditioning related device being connected to the first air conditioning related device via the wiring for the purpose of communication but not for the purpose of power transmission or the wiring for both communication and weak power transmission, The first air-conditioning related equipment communicates with the second air-conditioning related equipment via the wiring that performs communication and transmits strong electricity, and the first air-conditioning related equipment communicates with the third air-conditioning related equipment via the wiring that is for the purpose of communication but not for the purpose of power transmission or the wiring that performs communication and transmits weak electricity.

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