Air conditioning related equipment and air conditioning systems

Abstract

The air conditioning related equipment includes: a first connection part for wiring connection for communication and high-voltage power transmission; a second connection part for wiring connection for communication but not for power transmission, or for communication and low-voltage power transmission; and a connection circuit connecting the first connection part and the second connection part, the connection circuit including an insulation circuit that cuts off power transmission and allows communication-related signals to pass through.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an air conditioning-related device and an air conditioning system. Background Technology

[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 uses a power cord and a communication line for communication. Patent Document 3 discloses a communication processing and control circuit capable of using both AC and DC power.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-99020

[0006] Patent Document 2: International Publication No. 2020 / 174563

[0007] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-159921 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an air conditioning related device and an air conditioning system, wherein signals can be mutually input to a communication network including wiring for communication and transmission of high voltage and a communication network including wiring for communication but not for power transmission or wiring for communication and transmission of low voltage.

[0010] Technical solutions adopted to solve technical problems

[0011] One aspect of the air conditioning-related equipment disclosed herein includes: a first connection portion for wiring connections for communication and high-voltage power transmission; a second connection portion for wiring connections for communication purposes but not for power transmission, or for communication and low-voltage power transmission; and a connection circuit connecting the first connection portion and the second connection portion, the connection circuit including an insulation circuit that interrupts power transmission and allows communication-related signals to pass through.

[0012] In one aspect of this disclosure, the air conditioning-related equipment is preferably configured such that the connection circuit includes a communication circuit, the insulation circuit being disposed in front of the communication circuit, wherein the communication circuit performs communication via the wiring for communication and transmission of high voltage, and communication via the wiring for communication purposes but not for power transmission, or via the wiring for communication and transmission of low voltage.

[0013] In one aspect of the air conditioning-related equipment disclosed herein, it is preferred that the insulating circuit is disposed 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.

[0014] A preferred embodiment of the air conditioning-related equipment of this disclosure comprises: a power supply circuit that receives high-voltage power transmitted from an external air conditioning-related device via the wiring for communication and high-voltage transmission or from an AC power source, and supplies main power to its own device; and a power receiving circuit that receives low-voltage power transmitted from an external air conditioning-related device via the wiring for communication but not for power transmission or the wiring for communication and low-voltage transmission, and supplies auxiliary power to its own device.

[0015] A preferred embodiment of the air conditioning-related equipment of this disclosure is configured to include: a first receiving circuit that receives signals via a wiring for communication and high-voltage transmission at a frequency lower than the frequency of signals related to communication via the wiring for communication and high-voltage transmission; and a second receiving circuit that receives signals via a wiring for communication purposes but not for power transmission, or a wiring for communication and low-voltage transmission, at a frequency lower than the frequency of signals related to communication via the wiring for communication purposes but not for power transmission, or a wiring for communication and low-voltage transmission.

[0016] In one aspect of this disclosure, the air conditioning-related equipment is preferably configured to include a power supply circuit, which is connected to an AC power source and supplies main power to the air conditioning-related equipment, and the high-voltage power of the AC power source is transmitted to other air conditioning-related equipment via a wiring system for communication and high-voltage transmission.

[0017] A preferred embodiment of the air conditioning-related equipment of this disclosure is configured to include: a first transmitting circuit that transmits signals via the wiring for communication and high-voltage transmission at a frequency lower than the frequency of signals related to communication via the wiring for communication and high-voltage transmission; and a second transmitting circuit that transmits signals via the wiring for communication purposes but not for power transmission, or the wiring for communication and low-voltage transmission, at a frequency lower than the frequency of signals related to communication via the wiring for communication purposes but not for power transmission, or the wiring for communication and low-voltage transmission.

[0018] In one aspect of the air conditioning-related equipment disclosed herein, the wiring configured for communication and high-voltage power transmission includes a power line, a common line, and a signal line, wherein the power line and the common line are used for high-voltage power transmission, and the communication circuit performs communication via the signal line and the common line.

[0019] In one aspect of this disclosure, the air conditioning-related equipment is preferably configured such that the insulating circuit includes a transformer or a capacitor.

[0020] A preferred embodiment of the air conditioning system disclosed herein comprises: the aforementioned first air conditioning related device; and a second air conditioning related device, wherein the second air conditioning related device is connected to the first air conditioning related device via the aforementioned wiring for communication and high-voltage transmission, the aforementioned wiring for communication but not for power transmission, or the aforementioned wiring for communication and low-voltage transmission, and the first air conditioning related device and the second air conditioning related device communicate with each other via the aforementioned wiring for communication and high-voltage transmission, the aforementioned wiring for communication but not for power transmission, or the aforementioned wiring for communication and low-voltage transmission.

[0021] A preferred embodiment of the air conditioning system disclosed herein comprises: the aforementioned first air conditioning related device; a second air conditioning related device, wherein the second air conditioning related device and the first air conditioning related device are connected via the aforementioned wiring for communication and high-voltage power transmission; and a third air conditioning related device, wherein the third air conditioning related device and the first air conditioning related device are connected via the aforementioned wiring for communication purposes but not for power transmission or the aforementioned wiring for communication and low-voltage power transmission, wherein the first air conditioning related device and the second air conditioning related device communicate via the aforementioned wiring for communication and high-voltage power transmission, and wherein the first air conditioning related device and the third air conditioning related device communicate via the aforementioned wiring for communication purposes but not for power transmission or the aforementioned wiring for communication and low-voltage power transmission.

[0022] According to this disclosure, signals can be mutually input to a communication network including wiring for communication and transmission of high-voltage electricity and a communication network including wiring for communication but not for power transmission, or wiring for communication and transmission of low-voltage electricity. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the air conditioning system according to Implementation Method 1.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the outdoor unit and indoor unit in Embodiment 1.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the outdoor unit and indoor unit in Embodiment 1.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing the structure of a comparative example air conditioning system. Detailed Implementation

[0027] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the air conditioning related equipment and air conditioning system according to the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

[0028] <Structure of an Air Conditioning System>

[0029] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1. Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 in Embodiment 1. The air conditioning system of this embodiment includes a centralized management device 1, an outdoor unit 2, an indoor unit 3, and a refrigerant switching device 4, among other air conditioning-related equipment. These multiple air conditioning-related devices are connected via various types of wiring L. The air conditioning-related equipment is not limited to the aforementioned devices; it may include, for example, various devices related to air conditioning (air conditioning), such as ventilation devices, remote controls (remote controllers), communication devices, or control devices.

[0030] The wiring L connecting air conditioning-related equipment includes: wiring L for communication and high-voltage power transmission (hereinafter referred to as high-voltage power line L1); wiring L for communication and low-voltage power transmission (hereinafter referred to as low-voltage power line L2); and wiring L for communication purposes but not for power transmission (hereinafter referred to as dedicated communication line). High-voltage power line L1 is the wiring L that transmits the power required to operate the drive system of the refrigerant circuit, etc. Low-voltage power line L2 is, for example, the wiring L that transmits the power required to operate the control system. Figure 1 In the example shown, multiple air conditioning-related devices are connected via a high-voltage power line L1 and a low-voltage power line L2.

[0031] Multiple outdoor units 2 are connected to the central management device 1 in a daisy-chain configuration via a low-voltage power line L2. The central management device 1 and the outdoor units 2 can communicate via the low-voltage power line L2.

[0032] Multiple indoor units 3 are connected to a first outdoor unit 2 via a high-voltage power line L1. The outdoor unit 2 communicates with the indoor units 3 via the high-voltage power line L1 and supplies high-voltage power to the indoor units 3. The first outdoor unit 2 and the multiple indoor units 3 constitute a system (e.g., a refrigerant circuit).

[0033] Multiple indoor units 3 are connected to the second outdoor unit 2 in a daisy-chain configuration via a low-voltage power line L2. The second outdoor unit 2 and the indoor units 3 can communicate via the low-voltage power line L2. The second outdoor unit 2 and the multiple indoor units 3 constitute a system.

[0034] The refrigerant switching device 4 is connected to the third outdoor unit 2 via a low-voltage power line L2. Multiple indoor units 3 are connected to the refrigerant switching device 4 in a daisy-chain configuration via a high-voltage power line L1. The third outdoor unit 2 and the refrigerant switching device 4 can communicate via the low-voltage power line L2. The refrigerant switching device 4 communicates with the indoor units 3 via the high-voltage power line L1 and supplies high-voltage power to the indoor units 3. The third outdoor unit 2 can communicate with the indoor units 3 via both the low-voltage power line L2 and the high-voltage power line L1. The third outdoor unit 2, the refrigerant switching device 4, and the multiple indoor units 3 constitute a system.

[0035] In this air conditioning system, the outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 achieve mutual signal input to the high-voltage power line L1 and the low-voltage power line L2 through the connection circuits 20 and 30 of this embodiment. Specifically, the connection circuits 20 and 30 include insulation circuits 20b and 20d and communication circuits 20d and 30d that communicate using a predetermined common communication protocol, thereby enabling mutual signal input. Figure 1 In the diagram, "communication" for outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 refers to communication circuits 20d and 30d, while "insulation" refers to insulation circuits 20b and 30b. The refrigerant switching device 4 also has the same circuit structure as outdoor unit 2, enabling mutual signal input.

[0036] The functions of air conditioning-related equipment that can achieve mutual input are as follows.

[0037] (1) The outdoor unit 2, the indoor unit 3 and the refrigerant switching device 4 can be connected to any of the following communication networks: 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.

[0038] (2) The outdoor unit 2, indoor unit 3, and 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. Air conditioning-related devices can communicate by daisy-chaining various air conditioning-related devices through wiring L of the same system. Communication-related signals are transmitted from the low-voltage power line L2 to the high-voltage power line L1 via insulating circuits 20b and 30b, and from the high-voltage power line L1 to the low-voltage power line L2. Similarly, communication-related signals are transmitted from the dedicated communication line to the high-voltage power line L1 via insulating circuits 20b and 30b, and from the high-voltage power line L1 to the dedicated communication line.

[0039] (3) The outdoor unit 2, the indoor unit 3 and the refrigerant switching device 4 can communicate through a common communication protocol regardless of the type or system of the communication network.

[0040] <Outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 are connected via high-voltage power cord L1>

[0041] Figure 2 The 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, a wire connected to a reference potential. For example, the common line L12 is a wire grounded to 0V. The power line L11 is used to transmit high-voltage electricity. The signal line L13 is used for communication between air conditioning-related devices. Outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 transmit high-voltage electricity through the power line L11 and the common line L12, and communicate via the common line L12 and the signal line L13.

[0042] Communication-related signals are transmitted via a common line L12 and a signal line L13 connected to a reference potential, thus preventing communication-related signals from leaking into the external power system via the power line L13.

[0043] The outdoor unit 2 includes: a first connection part 21 for connecting to a high-voltage power line L1; a second connection part 22 for connecting to a low-voltage power line L2 or a dedicated communication line; and a third connection part 23 having a power terminal for connecting to an AC power supply 10. The outdoor unit 2 includes a connection circuit 20 connecting the first connection part 21 and the second connection part 22.

[0044] The first connection part 21 of the outdoor unit 2 includes sockets for connecting the power supply line L11 (for the high-voltage power supply line L1), the common line L12, and the signal line L13. The first connection part 21 includes two or more sets of sockets for daisy-chain connection to other air conditioning-related equipment. Corresponding terminals of each socket are connected to each other. That is, the first socket includes a terminal for connecting the power supply line L11 (for the high-voltage power supply line L1), a terminal for connecting the common line L12, and a terminal for connecting the signal line L13. The second socket also includes a terminal for connecting the power supply line L11 (for the high-voltage power supply line L1), a terminal for connecting the common line L12, and a terminal for connecting the signal line L13. The terminals for connecting the power supply line L11 of each socket are connected to each other. The terminals for connecting the common line L12 of each socket are connected to each other. The terminals for connecting the signal line L13 of each socket are connected to each other.

[0045] The second connection part 22 of the outdoor unit 2 has a socket for connecting a low-voltage power line L2 or a dedicated communication line. The second connection part 22 includes two or more sockets for daisy-chaining connection to other air conditioning-related equipment. The low-voltage power line L2 and the dedicated communication line are two separate lines, and each socket includes terminals for connecting these two lines. Corresponding terminals of each socket are connected to each other.

[0046] The indoor unit 3 includes: a first connection part 31 for connecting to a high-voltage power line L1; a second connection part 32 for connecting to a low-voltage power line L2 or a dedicated communication line; and a third connection part 33 for connecting to an AC power supply 10. The indoor unit 3 includes a connection circuit 30 connecting the first connection part 31 and the second connection part 32.

[0047] The first connection part 31 of the indoor unit 3 has a socket for connecting to the power line L11, the common line L12, and the signal line L13 of the high-voltage power line L1. The first connection part 31 includes two or more sockets for connecting to other air conditioning related equipment in a daisy-chain manner.

[0048] The second connection part 32 of the indoor unit 3 has a socket for connecting a low-voltage power line L2 or a dedicated communication line. The second connection part 32 includes two or more sockets for daisy-chaining connection to other air conditioning-related equipment. The low-voltage power line L2 and the dedicated communication line are two separate lines, and each socket includes terminals for connecting these two lines. Corresponding terminals of each socket are connected to each other.

[0049] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, the first connection part 21 of the outdoor unit 2 is connected to the first connection part 31 of the indoor unit 3 via a high-voltage power line L1. The second connection part 22 of the outdoor unit 2 is connected to the centralized management device 1 via a low-voltage power line L2. The third connection part 23 of the outdoor unit 2 is connected to the AC power supply 10. The second connection part 32 and the third connection part 33 of the indoor unit 3 are not connected to the wiring L or the AC power supply 10.

[0050] <Structure of connection circuit 20 for outdoor unit 2>

[0051] The connection circuit 20 of the outdoor unit 2 connects the first connection part 21 and the second connection part 22 of the outdoor unit 2. The connection circuit 20 includes a high-voltage noise filter (high-voltage NF) 20a, an insulation circuit 20b, a bandpass filter (BPF) 20c, a communication circuit 20d, a control circuit 20e, and a low-voltage filter (low-voltage NF) 20f. The connection circuit 20 also includes a first transmitting circuit (high-voltage PS) 20g and a second transmitting circuit (PS) 20h for system identification of the air conditioning system. Details of the first transmitting circuit 20g and the second transmitting circuit 20h are described later.

[0052] The communication circuit 20d is connected to the first connection portion 21 of the outdoor unit 2 via a high-voltage noise filter 20a, an insulation circuit 20b, and a bandpass filter 20c. Specifically, internal wiring is connected to the terminals of the first connection portion 21, which connects the common line L12 of the high-voltage power line L1 and the signal line L13. The first connection portion 21 is connected to the communication circuit 20d via this internal wiring. The high-voltage noise filter 20a is a circuit that removes noise entering the high-voltage power line L1. The high-voltage noise filter 20a is, for example, a common-mode noise filter. The insulation circuit 20b is a circuit that cuts off high-voltage power and allows communication-related signals to pass through. The insulation circuit 20b includes a transformer Tr1 and a capacitor C1 connected in series. For ease of illustration, the internal wiring connecting the high-voltage noise filter 20a and the communication circuit 20d is shown as a single 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 high-voltage noise filter 20a via the capacitor C1. The two terminals of the second coil constituting transformer Tr1 are connected to bandpass filter 20c. Bandpass filter 20c is a filter circuit that allows signal components transmitted / received between air conditioning-related equipment to pass through while blocking non-signal components. Bandpass filter 20c can also be a high-pass filter.

[0053] Alternatively, the insulating circuit 20b may also include either the transformer Tr1 or the capacitor C1.

[0054] The communication circuit 20d is connected to the second connection part 22 of the outdoor unit 2 via the low-voltage noise filter 20f. Specifically, internal wiring is connected to the terminals of the second connection part 22, and the second connection part 22 is connected to the communication circuit 20d via this internal wiring. The low-voltage noise filter 20f is a circuit that removes noise entering the low-voltage power line L2. Furthermore, for ease of illustration, a single line is used to illustrate the internal wiring connecting the second connection part 22, the low-voltage noise filter 20f, and the communication circuit 20d, but each circuit is connected via two internal wirings.

[0055] As described above, the communication circuit 20d is connected to the first connection portion 21 via the insulation circuit 20b, and is connected to the second connection portion 22 without passing through the insulation circuit 20b. The communication circuit 20d can communicate with external air conditioning-related equipment via the high-voltage power line L1 connected to the first connection portion 21, and can also communicate with external air conditioning-related equipment via the low-voltage power line L2 or a dedicated communication line connected to the second connection portion 22. Figure 2 In the example shown, the communication circuit 20d can communicate with the indoor unit 3 via the high-voltage power line L1 and with the centralized management device 1 via the low-voltage power line L2.

[0056] The control circuit 20e of the outdoor unit 2 controls the operation of the outdoor unit 2 by controlling the transmission / reception of signals implemented by the communication circuit 20d. The control device includes an arithmetic processing unit that executes the control program and a storage unit. The arithmetic processing unit includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Microprocessor Unit). The storage unit stores information used for the control program and control processing. The storage unit includes non-volatile memory and volatile memory.

[0057] <Structure of the connection circuit 30 of indoor unit 3>

[0058] The connection circuit 30 of the indoor unit 3 connects the first connection part 31 and the second connection part 32 of the indoor unit 3. 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; therefore, detailed descriptions are omitted as appropriate. The connection circuit 30 includes a high-voltage noise filter (high-voltage NF) 30a, an insulation circuit 30b, a bandpass filter (BPF) 30c, a communication circuit 30d, a control circuit 30e, and a low-voltage filter (low-voltage NF) 30f. The connection circuit 30 also includes a first receiving circuit (high-voltage PD) 30g and a second receiving circuit (PD) 30h for system identification of the air conditioning system. Details of the first receiving circuit 30g and the second receiving circuit 30h are described later.

[0059] The communication circuit 30d is connected to the first connection part 31 of the indoor unit 3 via a high-voltage noise filter 30a, an insulation circuit 30b, and a bandpass filter 30c. Specifically, internal wiring is connected to the terminals of the first connection part 31, which connects the common line L12 of the high-voltage power supply line L1 and the signal line L13. The first connection part 31 is connected to the communication circuit 30d via this internal wiring. The insulation circuit 30b is a circuit that cuts off high-voltage power while allowing communication-related signals to pass through. The insulation 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 connected to the high-voltage 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 filtering circuit that allows signal components transmitted / received between air conditioning-related devices to pass through while cutting off non-signal components.

[0060] The communication circuit 30d is connected to the second connection part 32 of the indoor unit 3 via a low-voltage noise filter 30f. Specifically, an internal wiring is connected to the terminals of the second connection part 32, and the second connection part 32 is connected to the communication circuit 30d via this internal wiring.

[0061] As described above, the communication circuit 30d is connected to the first connection portion 31 via the insulation circuit 30b, and is connected to the second connection portion 32 without passing through the insulation circuit 30b. The communication circuit 30d can communicate with external air conditioning-related equipment via the high-voltage power line L1 connected to the first connection portion 31, and can also communicate with external air conditioning-related equipment via the low-voltage power line L2 or a dedicated communication line connected to the second connection portion 32. Figure 2 In the example shown, the communication circuit 30d can communicate with the outdoor unit 2 via the high-voltage power line L1.

[0062] The control circuit 30e of the indoor unit 3 controls the operation of the indoor unit 3 by controlling the transmission / reception of signals implemented by the communication circuit 30d. The storage unit stores information used for control programs and control processing.

[0063] <Transmitting and receiving circuits related to system identification>

[0064] As described above, the outdoor unit 2, indoor unit 3, and refrigerant switching device 4, which belong to multiple systems, can communicate with each other in a way that allows them to input each other. Therefore, it is not possible to identify which system the air conditioning-related equipment connected by communication circuits 20d and 30d belongs to by using communication.

[0065] Therefore, as a circuit for the identification system, the outdoor unit 2 of this embodiment includes a first transmitting circuit 20g and a second transmitting circuit 20h, and the indoor unit 3 includes a first receiving circuit 30g and a second receiving circuit 30h.

[0066] The first transmitting circuit 20g of outdoor unit 2 is a circuit that transmits a detection signal via the power supply line L1 at a frequency lower than the frequency of the signal related to communication via the power supply line L1. The output terminal of the first transmitting circuit 20g is connected to the first connection part 21. Specifically, the first transmitting circuit 20g is connected to the first connection part 21 via internal wiring that connects to the common line L12 and signal line L13 of the power supply line L1. The input terminal of the first transmitting circuit 20g is connected to the control circuit 20e. The control circuit 20e controls the operation of the first transmitting circuit 20g. For example, the first transmitting circuit 20g transmits a pulse signal encoded with the identifier of outdoor unit 2.

[0067] The second transmitting circuit 20h of outdoor unit 2 is a circuit that transmits a detection signal via a dedicated communication line or low-voltage power line L2 at a frequency lower than the frequency of signals related to communication via the dedicated communication line or low-voltage power line L2. The output terminal of the second transmitting circuit 20h is connected to the second connection part 22. The input terminal of the second transmitting circuit 20h is connected to the control circuit 20e. The control circuit 20e controls the signal transmission of the second transmitting circuit 20h. For example, the second transmitting circuit 20h transmits a pulse signal encoded with the identifier of outdoor unit 2.

[0068] The first receiving circuit 30g of the indoor unit 3 is a circuit that receives a detection signal with a frequency lower than the frequency of the signal related to communication via the power supply line L1. The input terminal of the first receiving circuit 30g is connected to the first connection part 31. Specifically, the first receiving circuit 30g is connected to the first connection part 31 via internal wiring that connects to the common line L12 and signal line L13 of the power supply 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 transmitting source by decoding the detection signal.

[0069] The second receiving circuit 30h of the indoor unit 3 is a circuit that receives a detection signal with a frequency lower than that of the signal related to communication via the dedicated communication line or low-voltage power line L2. The input terminal of the second receiving circuit 30h is connected to the second connection part 32 via a low-voltage 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 transmitting source by decoding the detection signal.

[0070] In composition Figure 1 The air conditioning system shown is equipped with high-frequency pass-through filters between multiple systems. Specifically, a high-frequency pass-through filter is installed on the wiring L connecting the air conditioning-related equipment constituting the first system to the air conditioning-related equipment constituting the second system. The high-frequency pass-through filter is a filtering circuit that allows signal components transmitted / received between the air conditioning-related equipment to pass through while blocking the aforementioned detection signal. By setting up the high-frequency pass-through filter, the transmission range of the detection signal is limited to within one system.

[0071] When outdoor unit 2 identifies the air conditioning-related equipment connected to the high-voltage power line L1, the control circuit 20e of outdoor unit 2 sends a detection signal to the first transmitting circuit 20g. The frequency of the detection signal is lower than the frequency of the signal components transmitted / received between 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 within the system defined by the high-frequency pass-through filter. When the control circuit 30e of indoor unit 3, which is daisy-chained to outdoor unit 2, receives the detection signal sent from outdoor unit 2 through the first receiving circuit 30g, it sends a response signal to outdoor unit 2 via the high-voltage power line L1. When outdoor unit 2 receives the response signal through communication circuit 20d, it identifies outdoor unit 2, as the 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 set of air conditioning-related equipment in the same system by transmitting / receiving detection signals and response signals.

[0072] When outdoor unit 2 identifies air conditioning-related equipment connected to the low-voltage power line L2 or dedicated communication line, the control circuit 20e of outdoor unit 2 sends a detection signal to the second transmitting circuit 20h. The detection signal only reaches air conditioning-related equipment within the system defined by the high-frequency pass-through filter. When the control circuit 30e of indoor unit 3, which is daisy-chained with outdoor unit 2, receives the detection signal sent from outdoor unit 2 via the second receiving circuit 30h, it sends a response signal to outdoor unit 2 via the low-voltage power line L2 or dedicated communication line. When outdoor unit 2 receives the response signal via communication circuit 20d, it identifies outdoor unit 2 as the source of the response signal and considers it to be air conditioning-related equipment within the same system as its own unit. For other air conditioning-related equipment, the air conditioning-related equipment can also identify a set of air conditioning-related equipment within the same system by sending / receiving detection and response signals.

[0073] <Other structural details of outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3>

[0074] Outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 each include an outdoor unit and an indoor unit that constitute a refrigerant circuit (not shown). The outdoor unit and indoor unit are connected via refrigerant piping and a shut-off valve. The outdoor unit includes a compressor that draws in refrigerant, compresses it, and discharges it; a four-way reversing valve installed on the refrigerant piping; an outdoor heat exchanger; and an expansion mechanism for reducing refrigerant pressure. The expansion mechanism may be, for example, an expansion valve or a capillary tube. The indoor unit includes an indoor heat exchanger.

[0075] The outdoor unit 2 includes a noise filter (NF) 24, a rectifier smoothing circuit 25, an inverter 26a, an outdoor fan 26b, a power supply circuit 26c, and a low-pass filter (LPF) 27.

[0076] Inverter 26a and outdoor fan 26b are connected to the third connection 23 of outdoor unit 2 via noise filter 24 and rectifier smoothing circuit 25. Noise filter 24 removes noise generated in connection circuits 20 and 30 and noise entering the high-voltage power line L1. Rectifier smoothing circuit 25 is a circuit that converts AC power supplied from AC power source 10 or external air conditioning equipment into DC power. Inverter 26a is a circuit that converts the DC power rectified by rectifier smoothing circuit 25 back into AC power. Outdoor unit is driven by AC power converted by inverter 26a. Outdoor fan 26b is driven by DC power rectified by rectifier smoothing circuit 25. Outdoor fan 26b delivers air to outdoor heat exchanger, thereby promoting heat exchange.

[0077] The power supply circuit 26c is connected to the third connection part 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 from the AC power supply 10 or external air conditioning related equipment and supplies the main power to various devices of the outdoor unit 2, which is itself an installation.

[0078] The third connection 23 of the outdoor unit 2 is connected to the first connection 31 via a low-pass filter 27. The low-pass filter 27 blocks signals with frequencies higher than the AC power frequency, preventing such signals from leaking from the first connection 31 to the outside via the third connection 33. When the AC power supply 10 is connected to the third connection 33 and the high-voltage power line L1 is connected to the first connection 31, the high-voltage power from the AC power supply 10 is transmitted to the external air conditioning equipment via the third connection 33, the first connection 31, and the high-voltage power line L1. Figure 2 In the example shown, high-voltage power is transmitted from outdoor unit 2 to indoor unit 3 via high-voltage power line L1.

[0079] The indoor unit 3 includes a noise filter (NF) 34, a rectifier and smoothing circuit 35, an indoor fan 36b, a power supply circuit 36c, low-pass filters (LPF) 37 and 38, and a power receiving circuit 39.

[0080] The indoor fan 36b is connected to the third connection part 33 of the indoor unit 3 via a noise filter 34 and a rectifier smoothing circuit 35. The noise filter 34 removes noise generated in the connection circuits 20 and 30 and noise entering the high-voltage power line L1. The rectifier smoothing circuit 35 is a circuit that converts AC power supplied from the AC power source 10 or external air conditioning equipment into DC power. The indoor fan 36b is driven by the DC power rectified by the rectifier smoothing circuit 35. The indoor fan 36b delivers air to the indoor heat exchanger and delivers the heat-exchanged air into the room.

[0081] The power supply circuit 36c is connected to the third connection part 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 from the AC power supply 10 or external air conditioning-related equipment and supplies the main power to various devices of the indoor unit 3, which is itself an installation.

[0082] The third connection part 33 of the indoor unit 3 is connected to the first connection part 31 via a low-pass filter 37. The low-pass filter 37 blocks signals with frequencies higher than the frequency of AC power, preventing such signals from leaking from the first connection part 31 to the outside via the third connection part 33.

[0083] The power receiving circuit 39 is connected to the second connection part 32 of the indoor unit 3 via a low-voltage noise filter 30f and a low-pass filter 38. The low-pass filter 38 is a circuit that removes communication-related signals. The power receiving circuit 39 receives low-voltage power supplied from the outdoor unit 2, the refrigerant switching device 4, and other air conditioning-related equipment via the low-voltage power line L2, and supplies auxiliary power to various circuits of the indoor unit 3, which is itself a device.

[0084] In addition, an example of installing the low-pass filter 38 and the power receiving circuit 39 for receiving low-voltage power in the indoor unit 3 has been described, but the circuit for receiving low-voltage power can also be installed in the outdoor unit 2.

[0085] <Outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 are connected via low-voltage power cord L2>

[0086] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 in Embodiment 1. The structure of the outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 is similar to... Figure 2 Same or similar. In Figure 3 In the example shown, the second connection part 22 of outdoor unit 2 is connected to the second connection part 32 of indoor unit 3 via a low-voltage power line L2. The second connection part 22 of outdoor unit 2 is connected to the centralized management device 1 via a low-voltage power line L2. The third connection part 33 of indoor unit 3 and the third connection part 23 of outdoor unit 2 are connected to the AC power supply 10. The first connection part 21 of outdoor unit 2 and the first connection part 31 of indoor unit 3 are not connected to the wiring L.

[0087] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 can send / receive signals via the low-voltage power line L2. Central management device 1 and outdoor unit 2 can send / receive signals via the low-voltage power line L2. Central management device 1 and indoor unit 3 can send / receive signals via the low-voltage power line L2.

[0088] The second connection part 22 of the outdoor unit 2 can also be connected to the second connection part 32 of the indoor unit 3 via a dedicated communication line. In this case, the outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 can send / receive signals via the dedicated communication line.

[0089] <Refrigerant switching device 4>

[0090] Figure 1 The communication structure 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, therefore detailed descriptions are omitted. Figure 1 In the example shown, the refrigerant switching device 4 is connected to the outdoor unit 2 via a low-voltage power line L2 and to the indoor unit 3 via a high-voltage power line L1. The refrigerant switching device 4 and the outdoor unit 2 can send / receive signals via the low-voltage power line L2. The refrigerant switching device 4 and the indoor unit 3 can send / receive signals via the high-voltage power line L1. The outdoor unit 2 and the indoor unit 3 can send / receive signals via both the low-voltage and high-voltage power lines L1. The central management device 1 can send / receive signals via both the low-voltage and high-voltage power lines L2 and L1.

[0091] <Comparative Example with This Embodiment>

[0092] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of a comparative example air conditioning system. The comparative example air conditioning system is a system in which multiple air conditioning-related devices are connected via various types of wiring L, but signals cannot be input to each other. Figure 4 In this context, "communication" refers to a dedicated high-voltage communication circuit that communicates via the low-voltage power line L2, while "high-voltage communication" refers to a dedicated low-voltage communication circuit that communicates via the high-voltage power line L1.

[0093] In the comparative example, outdoor unit 121 is connected to multiple indoor units 131 via a high-voltage power line L1. Outdoor unit 121 and indoor units 131 use a high-voltage communication circuit to send / receive signals using a high-voltage-specific communication protocol. Indoor unit 131 includes a low-voltage communication circuit. One indoor unit 131 communicates with the centralized management device 1 via a low-voltage power supply through the low-voltage communication circuit. Indoor unit 131 and centralized management device 1 send / receive signals using a low-voltage-specific communication protocol. Indoor unit 131 can communicate via both low-voltage power line L2 and high-voltage power line L1, but high-voltage power line L1 and low-voltage power line L2 cannot exchange signals, and their communication protocols are different. Therefore, centralized management device 1 cannot directly communicate with outdoor unit 121. Centralized management device 1 also cannot directly communicate with indoor unit 131 that is not connected via low-voltage power line L2.

[0094] In the comparative example, outdoor unit 122 is connected to multiple indoor units 132 via a low-voltage power line L2. Outdoor unit 122 and indoor units 132 use a low-voltage communication circuit to send / receive signals via a dedicated low-voltage communication protocol. Outdoor unit 122 cannot communicate directly with outdoor unit 121.

[0095] As described above, in the comparative example air conditioning system, the communication network utilizing the high-voltage power line L1 and the communication network utilizing the low-voltage power line L2 are not connected in a manner that allows for mutual signal input. Therefore, the number of devices that the air conditioning-related equipment can communicate with is limited.

[0096] In contrast, the air conditioning system according to this embodiment connects a communication network utilizing the high-voltage power line L1 and a communication network utilizing the low-voltage power line L2 via signal input. The communication protocol is also standardized. Therefore, each air conditioning-related device can communicate directly across both the high-voltage power line L1 and the low-voltage power line L2.

[0097] <Effects>

[0098] 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 allows signals to be mutually input to a communication network including a high-voltage power line L1 and a communication network including a low-voltage power line L2 or a dedicated communication line.

[0099] In the connection circuits 20 and 30 of the air conditioning related equipment, the insulation circuits 20b and 30b are arranged between the first connection parts 21 and 31 for connecting the high-voltage power line L1 and the second connection parts 22 and 32 for connecting the low-voltage power line L2 or a dedicated communication line. Therefore, signals can be mutually input to the high-voltage power line L1 and the low-voltage power line L2.

[0100] The communication circuits 20d and 30d of outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 are connected to the high-voltage power line L1 via insulated circuits 20b and 30b. Outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 can communicate via the high-voltage power line L1.

[0101] The communication circuits 20d and 30d of outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 are connected to the low-voltage power line L2 without passing through the insulated circuits 20b and 30b. Outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 can communicate via the low-voltage power line L2.

[0102] Outdoor unit 2, indoor unit 3, and refrigerant switching device 4 can receive high-voltage power from other air conditioning-related equipment via high-voltage power line L1 to operate.

[0103] Outdoor unit 2, indoor unit 3, and refrigerant switching device 4 can receive low-voltage power from other air conditioning-related equipment via low-voltage power line L2 to operate.

[0104] Outdoor unit 2, indoor unit 3 and refrigerant switching device 4 can supply high-voltage power to other air conditioning related equipment via high-voltage power line L1.

[0105] Outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 can send / receive low-frequency signals for system identification and perform system identification. That is, outdoor unit 2 and indoor unit 3 can identify air conditioning related equipment in the same system as the system to which they are connected.

[0106] Because communication is conducted in a high-frequency band, even if a part of the communication path fails, the air conditioning-related devices that are normally connected via wiring L can continue to communicate with each other relatively stably.

[0107] Because of its high-speed communication capabilities, air conditioning-related equipment can also send / receive information beyond the control data of the air conditioning system. For example, it can send / receive information related to maintenance and repair.

[0108] The communication protocols via the high-voltage power line L1, the low-voltage power line L2, and the dedicated communication line are shared. Therefore, the communication circuits 20d and 30d of the air conditioning-related equipment can communicate with the air conditioning-related equipment that is interconnected using the shared communication protocol.

[0109] Insulated circuits 20b and 30b can be constructed using a simple circuit consisting of capacitors C1 and C2 and transformers Tr1 and Tr2.

[0110] Air conditioning-related equipment can use the common line L12 and signal line L13, which are among the conductors used for transmitting high-voltage electricity, to send / receive signals. The high-voltage power line L1 can be used as a communication wire, ensuring that communication-related signals do not leak into the power system.

[0111] The embodiments have been described above, but it should be understood that various changes in form and detail can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. At least some of the above embodiments can also be combined arbitrarily.

[0112] Symbol Explanation

[0113] 1. Centralized management device;

[0114] 2 outdoor units;

[0115] 3 indoor units;

[0116] 4. Refrigerant switching device;

[0117] 10 AC power supply;

[0118] 20 Connect the circuit;

[0119] 20A high-voltage noise filter;

[0120] 20b Insulated Circuit;

[0121] 20c bandpass filter;

[0122] 20d communication circuit;

[0123] 20e control circuit;

[0124] 20F weak current noise filter;

[0125] 20g first transmitting circuit;

[0126] 20h second transmitting circuit;

[0127] 21 First connecting part;

[0128] 22 Second connecting part;

[0129] 23. Third connecting part;

[0130] 24 noise filters;

[0131] 25 Rectifier smoothing circuit;

[0132] 26A inverter;

[0133] 26b outdoor fan;

[0134] 26c power supply circuit;

[0135] 27. Low-pass filter;

[0136] 30 Connect the circuit;

[0137] 30A high-voltage noise filter;

[0138] 30b Insulated Circuit;

[0139] 30C bandpass filter;

[0140] 30d communication circuit;

[0141] 30e control circuit;

[0142] 30F weak current noise filter;

[0143] 30g first receiving circuit;

[0144] 30h second receiving circuit;

[0145] 31 First connecting part;

[0146] 32 Second connecting part;

[0147] 33 Third connecting part;

[0148] 34. Noise filter;

[0149] 35 rectifier smoothing circuit;

[0150] 36b indoor fan;

[0151] 36c power supply circuit;

[0152] 37 Low-pass filter;

[0153] 38 low-pass filter;

[0154] 39. Power receiving circuit;

[0155] C1 capacitor;

[0156] C2 capacitor;

[0157] L wiring;

[0158] L1 high-voltage power cord;

[0159] L11 power cord;

[0160] L12 shared line;

[0161] L13 signal line;

[0162] L2 low-voltage power cord.

Claims

1. An air conditioning-related device, characterized in that, include: The first connection part is connected to a high-voltage power line, which includes a power line for transmitting high voltage, a signal line for communication, and a common line for both high voltage transmission and communication. The second connection part is for wiring for communication purposes but not for power transmission, or for wiring for communication and low-voltage transmission. as well as A connection circuit connects the first connection part to the second connection part. The first connection part is used to connect to the second air conditioning-related equipment via the high-voltage power line. The second connection part is used to connect to the third air conditioning-related equipment via wiring for communication purposes but not for power transmission, or wiring for communication and low-voltage power transmission. The connection circuit includes: A communication circuit that performs communication via the high-voltage power line, and also performs communication via wiring for communication purposes but not for power transmission, or via wiring for communication and low-voltage transmission. as well as An insulating circuit, located at the front end of the communication circuit, cuts off high-voltage electricity while allowing communication-related signals to pass through. The first connection portion is connected to the communication circuit via the insulating circuit. The second connection portion is connected to the communication circuit without passing through the insulating circuit.

2. The air conditioning related equipment as described in claim 1, characterized in that, include: The third connection part is connected to the AC power supply; The power supply circuit is connected to the third connection part via a noise filter, and is connected to the first connection part via the noise filter and a low-pass filter for high voltage. It receives high voltage power supplied from the AC power supply or high voltage power transmitted via the high voltage power line, and supplies the main power to its own device. as well as The power receiving circuit is connected to the second connection part via a noise filter and a low-pass filter for low-voltage applications. It receives low-voltage power transmitted from the wiring connected to the second connection part and supplies auxiliary power to its own device.

3. The air conditioning-related equipment as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, include: A first receiving circuit receives, via the high-voltage power line, a signal with a frequency lower than that of a signal associated with communication via the high-voltage power line; as well as A second receiving circuit receives, via the wiring intended for communication but not for power transmission or the wiring used for communication and low-voltage transmission, a signal with a frequency lower than that associated with the communication signal transmitted via the wiring intended for communication but not for power transmission or the wiring used for communication and low-voltage transmission.

4. The air conditioning related equipment as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The air conditioning-related equipment includes a power supply circuit, which is connected to an AC power source to supply main power to the device itself. The high-voltage power from the AC power supply is transmitted to the second air conditioning-related equipment via the high-voltage power line.

5. The air conditioning related equipment as described in claim 4, characterized in that, include: A first transmitting circuit transmits a signal via the high-voltage power line at a frequency lower than the frequency of signals associated with communication via the high-voltage power line. as well as A second transmitting circuit transmits a signal at a frequency lower than the frequency of the signal associated with communication via the wiring intended for communication but not for power transmission or the wiring used for communication and low-voltage transmission.

6. The air conditioning-related equipment as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The power line and the common line are used for the transmission of high-voltage electricity, and the communication circuit performs communication via the signal line and the common line.

7. The air conditioning-related equipment as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The insulating circuit includes a transformer or a capacitor.

8. An air conditioning system, characterized in that, include: The air conditioning related equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 7; And related equipment for the second or third air conditioning system, The second air conditioning-related device is connected to the air conditioning-related device via the high-voltage power line, and the third air conditioning-related device is connected to the air conditioning-related device via the wiring for communication purposes but not for power transmission, or the wiring for communication and low-voltage power transmission. The air conditioning related equipment communicates with the second air conditioning related equipment via the high-voltage power line, or communicates with the third air conditioning related equipment via the wiring for communication purposes but not for power transmission, or via the wiring for communication and low-voltage transmission.

9. An air conditioning system, characterized in that, include: The air conditioning related equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 7; Second air conditioning related equipment; And related equipment for third-party air conditioning, The second air conditioning-related equipment is connected to the air conditioning-related equipment via the high-voltage power line. The third air conditioning-related equipment is connected to the air conditioning-related equipment via the wiring for communication purposes but not for power transmission, or via the wiring for communication and low-voltage power transmission. The air conditioning related equipment communicates with the second air conditioning related equipment via the high-voltage power line, and the air conditioning related equipment communicates with the third air conditioning related equipment via the wiring for communication purposes but not for power transmission or the wiring for communication and low-voltage transmission.

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