Air treatment device

Abstract

The air treatment device exchanges air in the room (I). The air processing device is provided with a control unit (C) for controlling the operation of the air processing device, and the control unit (C) causes the air processing device to perform either an exhaust operation in which air in a room (I) is sent to the outside or an air supply operation in which air in the outside is sent to the room (I) on the basis of an indoor environment or an outdoor environment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air treatment device. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a ventilation device. The ventilation device includes a receiving unit, a judging unit, and a control unit. The receiving unit receives air pollution prediction-related information, the judging unit judges whether to introduce outdoor air based on the air pollution prediction-related information, and the control unit controls the introduction of outdoor air (air supply operation) according to the judgment result of the judging unit. The ventilation device ventilates the indoor air by performing air supply operation.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2006-133121 Summary of the invention

[0006] -Technical problem to be solved by the invention-

[0007] However, in the structure of Patent Document 1, when the judgment unit judges that the outdoor environment is deteriorating or the outdoor air is polluted, the air supply operation is not performed, and the room cannot be ventilated. Therefore, even when the indoor air environment is deteriorating, the room is not ventilated, and it may be difficult to achieve a comfortable indoor air environment.

[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an air treatment device capable of achieving a comfortable indoor air environment.

[0009] -Technical solutions to solve technical problems-

[0010] The air handling device of the first aspect ventilates the room I. The air handling device includes a control unit C that controls the operation of the air handling device, and the control unit C causes the air handling device to perform either an exhaust operation for sending air in the room I to the outside or an air supply operation for sending air outside to the room I based on the indoor environment or the outdoor environment.

[0011] In the first aspect, ventilation can be performed by utilizing the characteristics of supply air ventilation and exhaust air ventilation, thereby achieving a comfortable environment in the room I.

[0012] The second aspect is that, based on the first aspect, the control unit C causes the air treatment device to perform any one of the exhaust operation and the air supply operation based on the component value in the air in the room I or the component value in the outdoor air, and the component value indicates the amount of a specified gas component in the air, the concentration of a specified gas component in the air, or the amount of particles in the air.

[0013] In the second aspect, it is possible to prevent the room I from being filled with uncomfortable odors.

[0014] According to a third aspect, based on the first aspect, the control unit C causes the air handling device to perform either the exhaust operation or the air supply operation based on the humidity of the room I or the humidity of the outdoor room.

[0015] In the third aspect, it is possible to suppress the humidity in the room I from being in an excessively high state or an excessively low state that makes the user uncomfortable.

[0016] In a fourth aspect, based on the second aspect, the control unit C causes the air handling device to perform either the exhaust operation or the air supply operation based on the information indicating the component value of the indoor air I acquired over time.

[0017] In the fourth aspect, it is possible to determine which operation to perform, the exhaust operation or the air supply operation, by taking into account changes in the component value of the indoor air I over time.

[0018] The fifth aspect is that, based on the second aspect or the fourth aspect, when the ratio of the change of the component value in the room I relative to the change over time is greater than a prescribed ratio, the control unit C causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.

[0019] In the fifth aspect, the room I can be appropriately ventilated.

[0020] The sixth aspect is that, based on the second aspect or the fourth aspect, the control unit C obtains a first sensor signal showing the component value of the indoor I, and when a high-frequency component above a specified frequency in the frequency component contained in the waveform representing the first sensor signal is above a specified ratio, the control unit C causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.

[0021] In the sixth aspect, it is possible to prevent the room I from being filled with specified gas components or particles.

[0022] The seventh aspect is that, based on the second aspect or the fourth aspect, the air treatment device includes a storage unit, which stores a first prediction model, and the first prediction model is used to output a predicted value of a first distance between the source of the specified gas component and the indoor unit 30 of the air treatment device. The control unit C uses the first prediction model to output the predicted value of the first distance. If the predicted value of the first distance is less than the first specified distance, the air treatment device is enabled to perform the exhaust operation.

[0023] In the seventh aspect, it is possible to suppress the room I from being in a state filled with a specified gas component.

[0024] The eighth aspect is that, based on the second aspect or the fourth aspect, when the level of the component value in the room I is above the prescribed level, the control unit C causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation, and when the level of the component value in the room I is lower than the prescribed level, the control unit C causes the air treatment device to perform the air supply operation.

[0025] In the eighth aspect, the indoor room I can be prevented from being filled with specified gas components or particles, while outdoor air can be sucked into the indoor room I.

[0026] The ninth aspect is that, based on any one of the first to eighth aspects, the air treatment device includes an indoor heat exchanger 34 arranged in the indoor unit 30 of the air treatment device, and when the air treatment device receives a stop instruction in a state where moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger 34, the control unit C causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.

[0027] In the ninth aspect, moisture adhering to the indoor heat exchanger 34 is discharged to the outside through exhaust operation, thereby suppressing the increase in humidity in the room I.

[0028] A tenth aspect is a case in which, based on the ninth aspect, the air handling device receives a stop instruction in a state where moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger (34), including a case in which the air handling device receives a stop instruction while in cooling operation.

[0029] In the tenth aspect, when the cooling operation is restarted, the cooling operation can be started in a state where the adhesion of moisture to the indoor heat exchanger 34 is suppressed, so the increase in the humidity of the indoor room I can be suppressed.

[0030] The eleventh aspect is, based on the ninth aspect, the air handling device receives a stop instruction in a state where moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger 34, including the situation where the air handling device in cooling operation receives a stop instruction and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 34 is lower than the dew point temperature of the air in the room I.

[0031] In the eleventh aspect, the increase in humidity can be suppressed.

[0032] The twelfth aspect is that, based on the third aspect, the control unit C causes the air treatment device to perform either the exhaust operation or the air supply operation based on the information indicating the humidity of the indoor room I acquired over time.

[0033] In the twelfth aspect, it is possible to decide which operation to perform, the exhaust operation or the air supply operation, by taking into account the change in humidity in the room I over time.

[0034] The thirteenth aspect is that, based on the third aspect or the twelfth aspect, when the average value of the humidity of the indoor room I within the specified time is a value outside the comfort zone of the specified humidity and meets the specified conditions, the control unit C enables the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation, and the specified conditions include the condition that the ratio of the change in the humidity of the indoor room I relative to the change over time is greater than the specified ratio.

[0035] In the thirteenth aspect, the humidity in the room I can be appropriately adjusted.

[0036] The fourteenth aspect is that, based on the third aspect or the twelfth aspect, when the average value of the humidity of the indoor room I within the specified time is a value outside the comfort zone of the specified humidity and the specified conditions are met, the control unit C causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation, and the control unit C obtains a second sensor signal showing the humidity of the indoor room I, and the specified conditions include the condition that the high-frequency components above the specified frequency contained in the waveform representing the second sensor signal are above a specified ratio.

[0037] In the fourteenth aspect, the humidity in the room I can be suppressed from being in an uncomfortable state.

[0038] The fifteenth aspect is that, based on the third aspect or the twelfth aspect, the air treatment device includes a storage unit, the storage unit stores a second prediction model, the second prediction model is used to output a predicted value of a second distance between a source that causes the humidity change and the indoor unit 30 of the air treatment device, the control unit C uses the second prediction model to output a predicted value of the second distance between the source and the indoor unit 30, if the predicted value of the second distance is less than a second specified distance, the control unit C causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.

[0039] In the fifteenth aspect, the humidity in the room I can be suppressed to be in an uncomfortable state.

[0040] The sixteenth aspect is that, based on the third aspect or the twelfth aspect, when the deviation of the average value of the humidity of the indoor room I within the specified time from the specified humidity comfort zone is greater than the specified amount, the control unit C causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation, and when the deviation is less than the specified amount, the control unit C causes the air treatment device to perform the air supply operation.

[0041] In the sixteenth aspect, the humidity in the room I can be suppressed from being in an uncomfortable state, while outdoor air can be sucked into the room I.

[0042] The seventeenth aspect is that, based on the third aspect or the twelfth aspect, the air treatment device includes an indoor heat exchanger 34 arranged in the indoor unit 30 of the air treatment device, and a passage is provided in the indoor unit 30, and the passage guides the air sent from the outside to the indoor unit 30 during the air supply operation toward the suction side of the indoor heat exchanger 34. When the humidity outside is higher than the humidity indoors I, the control unit C enables the air treatment device to perform the air supply operation.

[0043] In aspect seventeen, since the outdoor air sent to the indoor unit 30 is immediately dehumidified by the indoor heat exchanger 34, the outdoor air can be dehumidified more effectively than the case where the outdoor air is dehumidified by the indoor heat exchanger 34 in a state where the outdoor air is mixed with the indoor air I and becomes thin.

[0044] According to an eighteenth aspect, based on any one of the first to seventeenth aspects, when the air treatment device is activated, the control unit C causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.

[0045] In the eighteenth aspect, it is possible to suppress the generation of uncomfortable odors in the room I when the air handling device is started.

[0046] The nineteenth aspect is that, based on any one of the first to eighteenth aspects, the air treatment device includes a fan 13 that delivers outdoor air to the room I, and when the air treatment device is started, the control unit C stops the rotation of the fan 13.

[0047] In the nineteenth aspect, it is possible to prevent outdoor air from being sent to the indoor room I when the air handling device is started.

[0048] The twentieth aspect is that, based on any one of the first to nineteenth aspects, the air treatment device includes a wind direction plate 37 that specifies the direction of air delivery in the room I, and when the air treatment device is started, the control unit C sets the wind direction plate 37 to a closed state.

[0049] In the twentieth aspect, it is possible to suppress outdoor air from being sent to the indoor room I when the air handling device is activated.

[0050] The twenty-first aspect is that, based on the second aspect or the fourth aspect, during the air supply operation, when the component value of the indoor I increases over time and the degree of increase exceeds a prescribed degree, the control unit C causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.

[0051] In the twenty-first aspect, it is possible to prevent the air in the room I from being filled with specified gas components or particles. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0052] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the air conditioning device involved in the implementation mode;

[0053] Figure 2 is a structural diagram showing the refrigerant pipes and air flow of an air conditioning device;

[0054] Figure 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of the indoor unit of the air conditioner;

[0055] Figure 4 It is a block diagram containing the main components of the air conditioning unit;

[0056] Figure 5 is a diagram showing the state of the second switching damper inside the damper housing and the flow of air during air supply operation;

[0057] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the state of the second switching damper inside the damper housing and the flow of air during exhaust operation;

[0058] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing a first example of the operation of the air conditioning device;

[0059] Figure 8is a flowchart showing a second example of the operation of the air conditioning device;

[0060] Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing a third example of the operation of the air conditioning device;

[0061] Fig.10 is a flowchart showing a fourth example of the operation of the air conditioning device;

[0062] Fig.11 is a flowchart showing a fifth example of the operation of the air conditioning device;

[0063] Fig.12 is a flowchart showing a sixth example of the operation of the air conditioning device;

[0064] Fig.13 is a flowchart showing a seventh example of the operation of the air conditioning device;

[0065] Fig.14 is a flowchart showing an eighth example of the operation of the air conditioning device;

[0066] Fig.15 is a flowchart showing a ninth example of the operation of the air conditioning device;

[0067] Fig.16 It is a structural diagram showing a refrigerant pipe and air flow in a modified example of the air conditioning device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] The following is a detailed description of the embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various changes can be made without departing from the technical concept of the present disclosure. The drawings are used to briefly describe the present disclosure, so in order to facilitate understanding, the size, ratio or quantity is sometimes exaggerated or simplified as needed.

[0069] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0070] (1) Brief structure of air conditioning unit

[0071] The air conditioner 1 is an example of an air handling device. The air handling device only needs to have the function and structure of at least being able to perform cooling operation, heating operation, air supply operation, exhaust operation, dehumidification operation, humidification operation, exhaust operation and ventilation operation in dehumidification and cooling operation, and humidification and heating operation. The air conditioner 1 adjusts the temperature and humidity of the air in the room I. Figure 1As shown, the air conditioner 1 includes an air conditioner outdoor unit 10 and an air conditioner indoor unit 30. The air conditioner outdoor unit 10 is installed outdoors, and the air conditioner indoor unit 30 is installed in the room I. The air conditioner 1 is a one-to-one air conditioner having one air conditioner indoor unit 30 and one air conditioner outdoor unit 10. The air conditioner 1 includes a humidity control unit 20 as a humidity control component. The air conditioner 1 has the function of humidifying and dehumidifying the air. The air conditioner 1 also has the function of ventilating the room I.

[0072] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the air conditioning device 1 has a hose 2, a liquid connecting pipe 3, and a gas connecting pipe 4. The air conditioning indoor unit 30 and the humidity control unit 20 are connected to each other via the hose 2. The air conditioning indoor unit 30 and the air conditioning outdoor unit 10 are connected to each other via the liquid connecting pipe 3 and the gas connecting pipe 4. Thus, an air conditioning component 5 including a refrigerant circuit R is formed. The refrigerant circuit R is filled with a refrigerant. The refrigerant is difluoromethane. However, the refrigerant is not limited to difluoromethane. The refrigerant circuit R performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle.

[0073] The refrigerant circuit R mainly includes a compressor 12 , an outdoor heat exchanger 14 , an expansion valve 15 , a four-way switching valve 16 , and an indoor heat exchanger 34 .

[0074] The refrigerant circuit R performs a first refrigeration cycle and a second refrigeration cycle according to the switching of the four-way reversing valve 16. The first refrigeration cycle is a refrigeration cycle in which the indoor heat exchanger 34 functions as an evaporator and the outdoor heat exchanger 14 functions as a radiator. The second refrigeration cycle is a refrigeration cycle in which the indoor heat exchanger 34 functions as a radiator and the outdoor heat exchanger 14 functions as an evaporator.

[0075] (2) Detailed structure

[0076] (2-1) Air conditioner outdoor unit

[0077] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the air conditioner outdoor unit 10 includes an outdoor casing 11 , a compressor 12 , an outdoor fan 13 , an outdoor heat exchanger 14 , an expansion valve 15 , and a four-way reversing valve 16 .

[0078] A partition 18 is provided inside the outdoor housing 11. The partition 18 divides the interior of the outdoor housing 11 into a first space S1 and a second space S2. A compressor 12 and an outdoor heat exchanger 14 are provided in the first space S1. Strictly speaking, a compressor 12, an outdoor fan 13, an outdoor heat exchanger 14, an expansion valve 15, and a four-way reversing valve 16 are provided in the first space S1. An outdoor suction port 11a, an outdoor blow-out port 11b, a moisture absorption side suction port 61a, and a moisture absorption side exhaust port 61b are formed on the outdoor housing 11. The outdoor suction port 11a is formed on the rear side of the outdoor housing 11. The outdoor suction port 11a is an opening for sucking in outdoor air (outdoor air). The outdoor blow-out port 11b is formed on the front side of the outdoor housing 11. The outdoor blow-out port 11b is an opening for blowing out the air that has passed through the outdoor heat exchanger 14. Inside the outdoor housing 11, an outdoor air passage 11c is formed from the outdoor suction port 11a to the outdoor blow-out port 11b.

[0079] The compressor 12 sucks in low-pressure gaseous refrigerant and compresses it. The compressor 12 is driven by the first motor M1. The compressor 12 is a variable capacity compressor that supplies power from the frequency conversion circuit to the first motor M1. The compressor 12 is configured to be able to change the operating capacity by adjusting the operating frequency (rotation speed) of the first motor M1. The compressor 12 is a so-called high-pressure dome compressor whose interior is filled with high-pressure refrigerant. When the compressor 12 is operating, the heat radiated from the compressor 12 is released to its surroundings.

[0080] The outdoor fan 13 is arranged in the outdoor air passage 11c. The outdoor fan 13 is rotated by the second motor M2. The air delivered by the outdoor fan 13 is sucked into the outdoor housing 11 from the outdoor suction port 11a. The air flows through the outdoor air passage 11c and is blown out to the outside of the outdoor housing 11 from the outdoor blow-out port 11b. The outdoor fan 13 delivers the outdoor air in a manner that allows the outdoor air to pass through the outdoor heat exchanger 14.

[0081] The outdoor heat exchanger 14 is disposed upstream of the outdoor fan 13 in the outdoor air passage 11c. The outdoor heat exchanger 14 of this example is a fin-tube heat exchanger. The outdoor heat exchanger 14 exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing therein and the outdoor air sent by the outdoor fan 13.

[0082] The expansion valve 15 decompresses the refrigerant. The expansion valve 15 is an electric expansion valve whose opening can be adjusted. The decompression mechanism can also be a temperature-sensitive expansion valve, an expansion machine, a capillary tube, etc. The expansion valve 15 only needs to be connected to the liquid pipeline of the refrigerant circuit R, and can also be set in the air conditioner indoor unit 30.

[0083] The four-way reversing valve 16 has a first valve port P1, a second valve port P2, a third valve port P3 and a fourth valve port P4. The first valve port P1 is connected to the discharge portion of the compressor 12. The second valve port P2 is connected to the suction portion of the compressor 12. The third valve port P3 is connected to the gas end of the outdoor heat exchanger 14. The fourth valve port P4 is connected to the gas connecting pipe 4.

[0084] The four-way reversing valve 16 is in the first state ( Figure 2 The solid line shows the state) and the second state ( Figure 2 The four-way reversing valve 16 in the first state enables the first valve port P1 to communicate with the third valve port P3, and enables the second valve port P2 to communicate with the fourth valve port P4. The four-way reversing valve 16 in the second state enables the first valve port P1 to communicate with the fourth valve port P4, and enables the second valve port P2 to communicate with the third valve port P3.

[0085] (2-2) Humidity Control Unit

[0086] The humidity control unit 20 is installed outdoors. The humidity control unit 20 of this example is integrated with the air conditioner outdoor unit 10. The humidity control unit 20 sends the air with conditioned humidity to the air conditioner indoor unit 30. The humidity control unit 20 includes an outdoor housing 11, a humidity control rotor 22, a first fan 26, a second fan 23, a heater 25, a first switching air valve 24, and a second switching air valve 29 (see Figure 5 The air-conditioning outdoor unit 10 and the humidity control unit 20 share the outdoor casing 11 .

[0087] The second space S2 is defined inside the outdoor housing 11. A humidity control rotor 22 and a heater 25 are provided in the second space S2. Strictly speaking, a humidity control rotor 22, a first fan 26, a second fan 23, a heater 25, a first switching air valve 24, and a second switching air valve 29 are provided in the second space S2. An air intake and exhaust port 21a, a connecting port 21b, and an outdoor exhaust port 21c are formed on the outdoor housing 11. The air intake and exhaust port 21a is an opening for circulation of outdoor air and indoor air. A first passage 27 extending from the air intake and exhaust port 21a to the connecting port 21b is formed inside the outdoor housing 11. A third passage 62 extending from the moisture absorption side intake port 61a to the moisture absorption side exhaust port 61b is formed inside the outdoor housing 11. A hose 2 is connected to the connecting port 21b.

[0088] The second passage 28 is connected to the first passage 27. The second passage 28 extends from the middle of the first passage 27 to the outdoor exhaust port 21c. The inlet end of the second passage 28 is connected to the downstream side of the humidity control rotor 22 in the first passage 27 (strictly speaking, the downstream side of the first fan 26). In the first passage 27 and the second passage 28, the downstream is the direction in which the air flows during the air supply operation ( Figure 2The upstream is the upstream of the direction in which air flows during air supply operation.

[0089] The air flowing in the first passage 27 passes through the humidity control rotor 22. The humidity control rotor 22 is an adsorption component that adsorbs moisture in the air. The humidity control rotor 22 is, for example, a disc-shaped humidity control rotor having a honeycomb structure. The humidity control rotor 22 holds an adsorbent made of a hygroscopic polymer material. The hygroscopic polymer material is a so-called adsorbent. In the adsorbent made of a hygroscopic polymer material, two phenomena occur: a phenomenon in which water vapor in the air is adsorbed onto the surface of the adsorbent and a phenomenon in which water vapor is absorbed into the interior of the adsorbent. It should be noted that the adsorbent held by the humidity control rotor 22 may also be an inorganic material such as silica gel, zeolite, or alumina. The adsorbent has the property of adsorbing moisture in the air. The desiccant has the property of desorbing the adsorbed moisture by heating.

[0090] The humidity control rotor 22 is driven to rotate by the third motor M3 and has a humidity control region 22A located in the first passage 27. In the humidity control region 22A, a regeneration operation is performed to desorb moisture adsorbed to the adsorbent into the air and an adsorption operation is performed to make the adsorbent adsorb moisture in the air.

[0091] The first fan 26 is arranged on the downstream side of the humidity control area 22A in the first passage 27. The first fan 26 conveys outdoor air in a manner that allows the outdoor air to pass through the humidity control area 22A of the humidity control rotor 22. The first fan 26 is rotated by the fourth motor M4. The first fan 26 is configured to be able to switch the air volume between multiple levels by adjusting the rotation speed of the fourth motor M4.

[0092] The heater 25 is disposed on the upstream side of the humidity control region 22A in the first passage 27. The heater 25 heats the air flowing in the first passage 27. The heater 25 is configured to have a variable output. The temperature of the air passing through the heater 25 changes according to the output of the heater 25.

[0093] The second fan 23 is arranged in the third passage 62. The second fan 23 rotates under the drive of the sixth motor M6. The second fan 23 conveys outdoor air in a manner that allows outdoor air to pass through the third passage 62. The outdoor air conveyed by the second fan 23 is sent to the third passage 62 through the moisture absorption side suction port 61a, and is discharged to the outside through the moisture absorption side exhaust port 61b. In the third passage 62, the adsorption area 22C of the humidity control rotor 22 and the second fan 23 are arranged in sequence from the upstream side to the downstream side of the air flow.

[0094] The first switching air valve 24 is disposed in a portion of the first passage 27 connected to the second passage 28. The flow path switching mechanism may also be composed of a flow path switching valve, a baffle, etc. The first switching air valve 24 is in the third state ( Figure 2 The solid line indicates the state) and the fourth state ( Figure 2 The first switching air valve 24 in the third state connects the first passage 27 with the inside of the hose 2 and disconnects the first passage 27 from the second passage 28. The first switching air valve 24 in the fourth state disconnects the first passage 27 from the inside of the hose 2 and connects the first passage 27 with the second passage 28. The state of the first switching air valve 24 is switched by a power source such as an electric motor.

[0095] The second switching air valve 29 is arranged in the first passage 27. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the second switching air valve 29 is arranged in the air valve housing 29A. The air valve housing 29A is provided with an internal space S31 of the second switching air valve 29, a space S32 in which the second switching air valve 29 is arranged, and a space S33. The second switching air valve 29 is slidably arranged in the space S32. The air valve housing 29A is provided with a first inlet and outlet 29a and a second inlet and outlet 29b for connecting the space S32 with the outside of the air valve housing 29A. The first inlet and outlet 29a is connected to the air intake and exhaust port 21a through the first passage 27. The second inlet and outlet 29b is connected to the connection port 21b on the outdoor housing 11 through the first passage 27, and the connection port 21b is connected to the hose 2. The second inlet and outlet 29b is connected to the outdoor exhaust port 21c through the first passage 27 and the second passage 28. The air valve housing 29A is provided with a first connecting port 29c and a second connecting port 29d for connecting the space S32 with the space S33. The second switching air valve 29 switches between the fifth state and the sixth state by sliding in the space S32. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 2 , the second switching damper 29 in the fifth state uses the inlet for sucking air as the first inlet and outlet 29a, and uses the outlet for exhausting air as the second inlet and outlet 29b. Figure 6 As shown, the second switching damper 29 in the sixth state uses the inlet for sucking air as the second inlet and outlet 29b and the outlet for exhausting air as the first inlet and outlet 29a. The state of the second switching damper 29 is switched by a power source such as a motor.

[0096] (2-3) Air conditioner indoor unit

[0097] like Figure 1 to Figure 3As shown, the air conditioner indoor unit 30 is installed in the room I. The air conditioner indoor unit 30 is a wall-mounted air conditioner indoor unit installed on the wall WL of the room forming the room I. The air conditioner indoor unit 30 includes an indoor housing 31, an indoor fan 32, an air filter 33, an indoor heat exchanger 34, a water receiving tray 35, and a wind direction adjustment unit 36.

[0098] The indoor housing 31 accommodates an indoor fan 32, an air filter 33, an indoor heat exchanger 34, and a water receiving tray 35. An indoor air inlet 31a and an indoor air outlet 31b are formed on the indoor housing 31. The indoor air inlet 31a is arranged on the upper side of the indoor housing 31. The indoor air inlet 31a is an opening for sucking indoor air. The indoor air outlet 31b is arranged on the lower side of the indoor housing 31. The indoor air outlet 31b is an opening for blowing out air after heat exchange or air for humidity control. An indoor air passage 31c extending from the indoor air inlet 31a to the indoor air outlet 31b is provided inside the indoor housing 31.

[0099] The indoor fan 32 is arranged at the substantially central part of the indoor air passage 31c. The indoor fan 32 is, for example, a cross-flow fan. The indoor fan 32 rotates under the drive of the fifth motor M5. The indoor fan 32 sucks the air in the room I into the indoor air passage 31c and transports it. The air transported by the indoor fan 32 is sucked into the indoor housing 31 from the indoor suction port 31a. The air flows through the indoor air passage 31c and is blown out to the outside of the indoor housing 31 from the indoor blow-out port 31b.

[0100] The indoor fan 32 conveys the air in the room I so that the air passes through the indoor heat exchanger 34. The air blown out from the indoor air outlet 31b is supplied to the room I. The indoor fan 32 is configured to be able to switch the air volume between multiple levels by adjusting the rotation speed of the fifth motor M5.

[0101] The air filter 33 is arranged in the indoor air passage 31c on the upstream side of the indoor heat exchanger 34. The air filter 33 is installed in the indoor casing 31 so that substantially all the air supplied to the indoor heat exchanger 34 passes through the air filter 33. The air filter 33 captures and collects dust in the air sucked from the indoor suction port 31a.

[0102] The indoor heat exchanger 34 is arranged in the indoor air passage 31c on the upstream side of the indoor fan 32. The indoor heat exchanger 34 of this example is a fin-tube heat exchanger. The indoor heat exchanger 34 exchanges heat between the refrigerant therein and the air in the room I sent by the indoor fan 32.

[0103] The water receiving pan 35 is arranged at the lower front side and the lower rear side of the indoor heat exchanger 34. The water receiving pan 35 receives condensed water generated inside the indoor casing 31 of the air conditioner indoor unit 30. The condensed water generated on the surface of the fin of the indoor heat exchanger 34 flows down along the surface due to its own weight and is received by the water receiving pan 35.

[0104] The wind direction adjusting unit 36 ​​adjusts the wind direction of the air blown out from the indoor air outlet 31b. The wind direction adjusting unit 36 ​​has an air guide plate 37. The air guide plate 37 is formed in a long plate shape extending along the length direction of the indoor air outlet 31b. The air guide plate 37 rotates under the drive of the motor. The air guide plate 37 opens and closes the indoor air outlet 31b as it rotates.

[0105] The wind deflector 37 is configured to be able to change its inclination angle step by step. The wind deflector 37 of this example can be adjusted to six positions. The six positions include a closed position and five open positions. The five open positions include Figure 3 The air guide plate 37 in the closed position substantially closes the indoor air outlet 31b. A gap may also be formed between the air guide plate 37 in the closed position and the indoor air outlet 31b. As described above, the air conditioner indoor unit 30 is connected to the humidity control unit 20 via the hose 2. The end of the hose 2 connected to the air conditioner indoor unit 30 is connected to the upstream of the indoor heat exchanger 34 in the indoor air passage 31c. The air sent from the humidity control unit 20 to the air conditioner indoor unit 30 is supplied to the upstream of the indoor heat exchanger 34 in the indoor air passage 31c through the hose 2. The air sent from the air conditioner indoor unit 30 to the humidity control unit 20 flows into the hose 2 from the upstream of the indoor heat exchanger 34 in the indoor air passage 31c.

[0106] (2-4) Remote control

[0107] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the air conditioning device 1 includes a remote controller 40. The remote controller 40 is arranged at a position in the room I where the user can operate. The remote controller 40 has a display unit 41 and an input unit 42. The display unit 41 displays specified information. The display unit 41 is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display. The specified information is information showing the operating state, set temperature, etc. of the air conditioning device 1. The input unit 42 receives input operations for various settings by the user. The input unit 42 is composed of, for example, a plurality of physical switches. By operating the input unit 42 of the remote controller 40, the user can set the operating mode, target temperature, target humidity, etc. of the air conditioning device 1.

[0108] (2-5) Sensor

[0109] like Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, the air conditioner 1 has a plurality of sensors. The plurality of sensors include a refrigerant sensor and an air sensor. The refrigerant sensor includes a sensor for detecting the temperature and pressure of a high-pressure refrigerant and a sensor for detecting the temperature and pressure of a low-pressure refrigerant (not shown).

[0110] The air sensor includes an outdoor air temperature sensor 51, an outdoor air humidity sensor 52, an indoor air temperature sensor 53, an indoor air humidity sensor 54, and a humidity sensor 55. The outdoor air temperature sensor 51 is provided in the air conditioner outdoor unit 10. The outdoor air temperature sensor 51 detects the temperature of the outdoor air. The outdoor air humidity sensor 52 of this example is provided in the third passage 62, and is located upstream of the humidity control rotor 22 (for example, around the moisture absorption side suction port 61a). The outdoor air humidity sensor 52 may also be provided around the outdoor suction port 11a of the outdoor housing 11 in the same manner as the outdoor air temperature sensor 51. The outdoor air humidity sensor 52 detects the humidity of the outdoor air. The outdoor air humidity sensor 52 of this example detects the relative humidity of the outdoor air, but may also detect the absolute humidity. The indoor air temperature sensor 53 and the indoor air humidity sensor 54 are provided in the air conditioner indoor unit 30. The indoor air temperature sensor 53 detects the temperature of the indoor air. The indoor air humidity sensor 54 detects the humidity of the indoor air. The indoor air humidity sensor 54 detects the relative humidity of the indoor air, but may also detect the absolute humidity. The humidity sensor 55 of this example is provided in the first passage 27. The humidity sensor 55 is located between the second inlet and outlet 29b of the second switching damper 29 and the connection port 21b of the outdoor housing 11. The humidity sensor 55 detects the humidity of the air flowing in the first passage 27. The humidity sensor 55 of this example detects the relative humidity of the air, but may also detect the absolute humidity.

[0111] (2-6) Control Unit

[0112] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the air conditioning device 1 has a control unit C. The control unit C controls the operation of the refrigerant circuit R. The control unit C controls the operation of the air conditioning outdoor unit 10, the humidity control unit 20 and the air conditioning indoor unit 30. The control unit C includes an outdoor control unit OC, an indoor control unit IC and a remote controller 40. The outdoor control unit OC is arranged in the air conditioning outdoor unit 10. The indoor control unit IC is arranged in the air conditioning indoor unit 30. The indoor control unit IC and the outdoor control unit OC respectively include an MCU (Micro Control Unit), an electrical circuit and an electronic circuit. The MCU includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a memory and a communication interface. Various programs for execution by the CPU are stored in the memory.

[0113] The detection value of the outdoor air temperature sensor 51 , the detection value of the outdoor air humidity sensor 52 , and the detection value of the humidity sensor 55 are input to the outdoor control unit OC.

[0114] The outdoor control unit OC is connected to the compressor 12, the outdoor fan 13, the expansion valve 15, and the four-way reversing valve 16. The outdoor control unit OC outputs control signals for executing and stopping the operation of the air-conditioning outdoor unit 10 to the compressor 12, the outdoor fan 13, the expansion valve 15, and the four-way reversing valve 16. The outdoor control unit OC controls the operating frequency of the first motor M1 of the compressor 12, the rotation speed of the second motor M2 of the outdoor fan 13, the state of the four-way reversing valve 16, and the opening degree of the expansion valve 15.

[0115] The outdoor control unit OC is also connected to the humidity control rotor 22, the first fan 26, the second fan 23, the heater 25, and the first switching air valve 24. The outdoor control unit OC outputs a control signal for executing and stopping the operation of the humidity control unit 20 to the humidity control rotor 22, the first fan 26, the second fan 23, the heater 25, and the first switching air valve 24. The outdoor control unit OC controls the rotation speed of the third motor M3 of the humidity control rotor 22, the fourth motor M4 of the first fan 26, the sixth motor M6 of the second fan 23, the operation of the humidity control rotor 22 and the first switching air valve 24, and the output of the heater 25.

[0116] The detection value of the indoor air temperature sensor 53 and the detection value of the indoor air humidity sensor 54 are input to the indoor control unit IC.

[0117] The indoor control unit IC is connected to the remote controller 40 in a communicable manner. The indoor control unit IC is connected to the indoor fan 32. The indoor control unit IC outputs a control signal for executing and stopping the operation of the air conditioner indoor unit 30 to the indoor fan 32. The indoor control unit IC controls the rotation speed of the fifth motor M5 of the indoor fan 32. The indoor control unit IC is connected to the outdoor control unit OC in a communicable manner.

[0118] The remote controller 40 is connected to the indoor control unit IC in a communicable manner. The remote controller 40 sends an instruction signal to the indoor control unit IC to instruct the operation of the air conditioner 1 according to the operation of the user on the input unit 42. If the indoor control unit IC receives the instruction signal from the remote controller 40, it sends the instruction signal to the outdoor control unit OC. The indoor control unit IC controls the operation of the above-mentioned devices of the air conditioner indoor unit 30 according to the instruction signal. If the outdoor control unit OC receives the instruction signal from the indoor control unit IC, it controls the operation of the above-mentioned devices of the air conditioner outdoor unit 10 and the humidity control unit 20.

[0119] (3) Operation

[0120] The operation modes executed by the air conditioner 1 include cooling operation, heating operation, air supply operation, exhaust operation, dehumidification operation, humidification operation, dehumidification and cooling operation, and humidification and heating operation. The control unit C causes the air conditioner 1 to execute these operations based on an instruction signal from the remote controller 40 .

[0121] (3-1) Refrigeration operation

[0122] The cooling operation is an operation in which the indoor heat exchanger 34, which functions as an evaporator, cools the air in the room 1. The humidity control unit 20 is stopped. In the cooling operation, the control unit C operates the compressor 12, the outdoor fan 13, and the indoor fan 32. The control unit C sets the four-way reversing valve 16 to the first state. The control unit C appropriately adjusts the opening of the expansion valve 15. In the cooling operation, a first refrigeration cycle is performed, in which the compressed refrigerant releases heat in the outdoor heat exchanger 14 and evaporates in the indoor heat exchanger 34.

[0123] In cooling operation, the control unit C adjusts the target evaporation temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 34 so that the indoor temperature detected by the indoor air temperature sensor 53 converges to the set temperature. The control unit C controls the rotation speed of the compressor 12 so that the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 34 converges to the target evaporation temperature. In cooling operation, the air delivered by the indoor fan 32 is cooled when passing through the indoor heat exchanger 34. The air cooled by the indoor heat exchanger 34 is supplied to the indoor room I from the indoor outlet 31b of the air conditioner indoor unit 30.

[0124] (3-2) Heating operation

[0125] The heating operation is an operation in which the indoor heat exchanger 34, which functions as a heat radiator, heats the air in the room 1. The humidity control unit 20 is stopped. In the heating operation, the control unit C operates the compressor 12, the outdoor fan 13, and the indoor fan 32. The control unit C sets the four-way reversing valve 16 to the second state. The control unit C appropriately adjusts the opening of the expansion valve 15. In the heating operation, a second refrigeration cycle is performed, in which the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 12 releases heat in the indoor heat exchanger 34 and evaporates in the outdoor heat exchanger 14.

[0126] In the heating operation, the control unit adjusts the target condensing temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 34 so that the indoor temperature detected by the indoor air temperature sensor 53 converges to the set temperature. The control unit C controls the rotation speed of the compressor 12 so that the condensing temperature of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 34 converges to the target condensing temperature. In the heating operation, the air sent by the indoor fan 32 is heated when passing through the indoor heat exchanger 34. The air heated by the indoor heat exchanger 34 is supplied to the room I from the indoor outlet 31b of the air conditioner indoor unit 30.

[0127] (3-3) Gas supply operation

[0128] Air supply operation is an operation to supply outdoor air to the indoor room. Figure 2 As shown by the solid arrow, the outdoor air is sent to the air conditioner indoor unit 30 through the hose 2. During the air supply operation, the controller C stops the heater 25, the humidity control rotor 22, and the second fan 23, and operates the first fan 26. The controller C sets the first switching damper 24 to the third state ( Figure 2 The second switching air valve 29 is set to the fifth state (refer to Figure 5 In the air supply operation, the outdoor air delivered by the first fan 26 is delivered to the air conditioner indoor unit 30 through the hose 2, and is supplied to the indoor air 1 from the indoor outlet 31b of the air conditioner indoor unit 30. It should be noted that the air supply operation can also be performed simultaneously with the cooling operation or the heating operation.

[0129] (3-4) Exhaust operation

[0130] Exhaust operation is an operation to exhaust indoor air to the outside. Figure 2 As shown by the dotted arrow, the indoor air is sent to the humidity control unit 20 through the hose 2. In the exhaust operation, the control unit C stops the heater 25, the humidity control rotor 22 and the second fan 23, and operates the first fan 26. The control unit C sets the first switching damper 24 to the third state ( Figure 2 The second switching air valve 29 is set to the sixth state (refer to Figure 6 In the exhaust operation, the indoor air delivered by the first fan 26 is delivered to the humidity control unit 20 through the hose 2 and discharged to the outside from the air intake and exhaust port 21a of the humidity control unit 20. It should be noted that the exhaust operation can also be performed simultaneously with the cooling operation or the heating operation.

[0131] (3-5) Dehumidification operation

[0132] The dehumidification operation is an operation in which the air dehumidified by the humidity control unit 20 is supplied to the room I. In the dehumidification operation, the air dehumidified by the humidity control unit 20 is intermittently supplied to the room I. The humidity control unit 20 alternately performs a first action and a second action. The first action is an action in which the humidity control rotor 22 adsorbs moisture in the air and supplies the air dehumidified by the humidity control rotor 22 to the room I. The second action is an action in which the humidity control rotor 22 is regenerated and the air used for regeneration is discharged to the outside.

[0133] Specifically, in the first operation, the control unit C operates the first fan 26, stops the second fan 23, stops the heater 25, and sets the first switching damper 24 to the third state ( Figure 2The second switching air valve 29 is set to the fifth state (refer to Figure 5 ). The air delivered by the first fan 26 flows in the first passage 27 and passes through the humidity control area 22A of the humidity control rotor 22. In the humidity control area 22A, moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The air dehumidified in the humidity control area 22A is delivered to the air conditioner indoor unit 30 through the hose 2, and is supplied to the indoor I from the indoor outlet 31b of the air conditioner indoor unit 30.

[0134] In the second operation (regeneration of the humidity control rotor 22), the control unit C operates the first fan 26 and the heater 25, stops the second fan 23, and sets the first switching damper 24 to the fourth state ( Figure 2 The state shown by the dotted line) sets the second switching air valve 29 to the fifth state (refer to Figure 5 ). The air delivered by the first fan 26 flows in the first passage 27, is heated by the heater 25, and then flows through the humidity control area 22A of the humidity control rotor 22. In the humidity control area 22A, the adsorbent is regenerated. Specifically, the moisture adsorbed to the adsorbent is released into the air. The air used for the regeneration of the humidity control rotor 22 is as follows. Figure 2 As shown by the black arrow in FIG. 2 , the liquid flows from the first passage 27 through the second passage 28 and is discharged to the outside.

[0135] (3-6) Humidification operation

[0136] The humidification operation is an operation for supplying the air humidified by the humidity control unit 20 to the room I. In the humidification operation, the air humidified by the humidity control unit 20 is continuously supplied to the room I. The control unit C operates the first fan 26 and the second fan 23, drives the humidity control rotor 22 to rotate, and turns the heater 25 to the ON state. The control unit C turns the first switching air valve 24 to the third state and the second switching air valve 29 to the fifth state.

[0137] The outdoor air flowing through the third passage 62 flows through the adsorption region 22C of the humidity controlling rotor 22. In the adsorption region 22C, moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The air to which moisture has been imparted to the humidity controlling rotor 22 is discharged from the third passage 62 to the outside of the room.

[0138] At the same time, the outdoor air flowing in the first passage 27 is heated by the heater 25 and then flows through the humidity control area 22A of the humidity control rotor 22. In the humidity control area 22A, the moisture separated from the adsorbent is released into the air. The air humidified by the humidity control rotor 22 is sent to the air conditioner indoor unit 30 through the hose 2, and is supplied to the indoor space I from the indoor outlet 31b of the air conditioner indoor unit 30.

[0139] (3-7) Dehumidification and cooling operation

[0140] The dehumidification and cooling operation is performed simultaneously with the cooling operation and the dehumidification operation described above. Specifically, the air is dehumidified by the humidity control unit 20, and the air is cooled by the indoor heat exchanger 34 functioning as an evaporator.

[0141] (3-8) Humidification and heating operation

[0142] The humidification and heating operation is performed simultaneously with the above-mentioned heating operation and humidification operation. Specifically, the humidity control unit 20 humidifies the air, and the indoor heat exchanger 34 that functions as a radiator heats the air.

[0143] (4) First Example of Operation of Air Conditioning Device

[0144] like Figure 4 As shown, the air conditioning device 1 includes an odor sensor 56. The odor sensor 56 detects the odor in the room I by detecting the concentration of the odor component in the air (the intensity of the odor). The odor sensor 56 is, for example, a semiconductor odor sensor. The odor sensor 56 detects the intensity of the odor of odor components (odorous gas) such as organic matter containing acetic acid, alcohol, etc. The odor sensor 56 includes a sensor element, which detects the odor based on the change in the resistance value of the sensor element caused by the contact between the sensor element and the odorous gas. The change in the resistance value reflects the intensity of the odor. A signal indicating the change in the resistance value is sent from the odor sensor 56 to the control unit C as a first sensor signal indicating the intensity of the odor in the room I. The odor sensor 56 is provided in the air conditioning indoor unit 30. The odor sensor 56 is, for example, arranged around the indoor suction port 31a of the indoor casing 31 (refer to Figure 3 ). The detection value (odor intensity) of the odor sensor 56 is a first example of a component value. The odor component is a first example of a predetermined gas component.

[0145] like Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, in step S10, the control unit C acquires a first sensor signal indicating the intensity of the odor in the room I from the odor sensor 56. The control unit C acquires the first sensor signal over time. Acquiring over time means acquiring continuously within a prescribed period.

[0146] In step S20, the control unit C determines whether the ratio of the change in the intensity of the odor in the room I to the change in time is greater than a predetermined ratio based on the first sensor signal from the odor sensor 56. If it is determined that the ratio of the change in the intensity of the odor in the room I to the change in time is greater than the predetermined ratio ("Yes" in step S20), the process moves to step S30. If it is determined that the ratio of the change in the intensity of the odor in the room I to the change in time is not greater than the predetermined ratio ("No" in step S20), the process moves to step S31.

[0147] In step S30 , the control unit C determines to perform the exhaust operation and causes the air-conditioning apparatus 1 to perform the exhaust operation.

[0148] In step S31 , the control unit C determines to perform the air supply operation and causes the air conditioner 1 to perform the air supply operation.

[0149] As described above, the control unit C selects which operation of the exhaust operation and the air supply operation the air treatment device 1 is to perform based on the indoor environment or the outdoor environment, and causes the air treatment device 1 to perform the selected operation.

[0150] When the substance that is the source of the odor component (the source of the specified gas component) is located near the air-conditioning indoor unit 30, the odor component reaches the air-conditioning indoor unit 30 before mixing with the air. Therefore, the ratio of the change in odor intensity at the installation location of the air-conditioning indoor unit 30 in room I to the change over time is greater than the specified ratio ("Yes" in step S20), and the odor component at the installation location of the air-conditioning indoor unit 30 changes dramatically.

[0151] In this case, assuming that the air-conditioning indoor unit 30 continues to supply air even when the odor components are located near the air-conditioning indoor unit 30, the strong odor components sucked in by the air-conditioning indoor unit 30 return to the indoor room I from the air-conditioning indoor unit 30, and the odor spreads to the indoor room I, especially moves to other rooms, etc.

[0152] In this embodiment, when the substance that is the source of the odor component is located near the air conditioner indoor unit 30, the air conditioner indoor unit 30 selects the exhaust operation, thereby suppressing the strong odor component sucked by the air conditioner indoor unit 30 from returning to the room I, and at the same time, the strong odor component can be effectively discharged to the outside. As a result, the odor component from the generation source can be appropriately discharged to the outside.

[0153] In contrast, in the present embodiment, when the substance that is the source of the odor component is located away from the air conditioning indoor unit 30, that is, when the ratio of the change in the intensity of the odor at the above-mentioned fixed position in the room I to the change in time is not greater than a prescribed ratio ("No" in step S20), even if the air conditioning indoor unit 30 performs air supply and ventilation, the possibility of strong odor components diffusing into the room I is low. Therefore, by performing air supply and ventilation by the air conditioning indoor unit 30, the deterioration of the odor in the room I can be suppressed, and the outdoor gas can be effectively sucked into the room I.

[0154] Through such control, ventilation that exhibits the characteristics of supply ventilation and exhaust ventilation can be carried out, thereby preventing the spread of harsh environments and the causes of harsh environments, thereby achieving a comfortable environment indoors.

[0155] (5) Second Example of Operation of Air Conditioning Device

[0156] like Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, in step S10, if the control unit C obtains the first sensor signal from the odor sensor 56, the process transfers to step S21.

[0157] In step S21, the control unit C determines whether the high-frequency component above the predetermined frequency in the frequency component included in the waveform representing the first sensor signal is greater than a predetermined ratio. When it is determined that the high-frequency component is greater than the predetermined ratio ("Yes" in step S21), the process is transferred to step S30. When it is determined that the high-frequency component is not greater than the predetermined ratio ("No" in step S21), the process is transferred to step S31.

[0158] By the above-described structure, when there are many high-frequency components in the first sensor signal, it can be inferred that the odor component (odor) from the odor source has reached the location where the odor sensor 56 is installed (the air conditioner indoor unit 30) from the source before mixing with the air. This is because, if the high-frequency components in the first sensor signal increase, the odor component at the location where the air conditioner indoor unit 30 is installed will change rapidly, similar to the case in the first example described above where the ratio of the change in the intensity of the odor in the room I to the change in time is greater than the prescribed ratio ("Yes" in step S20). In this case, by performing the exhaust operation as described above, the odor from the source can be effectively discharged to the outside. As a result, it is possible to prevent the room I from being filled with uncomfortable odors.

[0159] (6) Third Example of Operation of Air Conditioning Device

[0160] The air conditioning device 1 includes a memory (storage unit). The memory stores a program executed by the control unit C. The memory stores a first prediction model. The first prediction model is a model for outputting a prediction value of a first distance between a source of an odor component (source of odor) and the air conditioning indoor unit 30. The first prediction model is generated based on a correlation between the intensity of the odor (the detection value of the odor sensor 56) at the location where the air conditioning indoor unit 30 is located and the first distance. The odor component is an example of a predetermined gas component.

[0161] The method for generating the first prediction model is not particularly limited. The first prediction model is generated, for example, using AI (Artificial Intelligence). As an example of the method for generating the first prediction model by AI, a machine learning method (deep learning) based on a multi-layer artificial neural network can be cited.

[0162] The first prediction model is a learned model that takes the intensity of the odor (the detection value of the odor sensor 56) and the first distance as input data and learns the correspondence between the intensity of the odor and the first distance. If the input data is input to the first prediction model, the first prediction model outputs output data. The output data includes information showing the predicted value of the first distance.

[0163] The first prediction model may be table information (information that associates multiple odor intensities with multiple predicted values ​​of the first distance) generated through statistical analysis by conducting an experiment to investigate the correlation between the odor intensity and the first distance.

[0164] like Figure 4 and Fig. 9 As shown, in step S10, if the control unit C obtains the first sensor signal from the odor sensor 56, the process transfers to step S11.

[0165] In step S11, the control unit C outputs a predicted value of the first distance based on the detection value of the odor sensor 56 and the above-mentioned first prediction model.

[0166] In step S22, the control unit C determines whether the predicted value of the first distance is less than the first prescribed distance. If it is determined that the predicted value of the first distance is less than the first prescribed distance ("Yes" in step S22), the process transfers to step S30. If it is determined that the predicted value of the first distance is not less than the first prescribed distance ("No" in step S22), the process transfers to step S31.

[0167] (7) Fourth Example of Operation of Air Conditioning Device

[0168] like Figure 4 and Fig.10 As shown, in step S10, if the control unit C obtains the first sensor signal from the odor sensor 56, the process transfers to step S23.

[0169] In step S23, the control unit C determines whether the level of the odor in the room I is above the prescribed level. The level of the odor is the detection value of the odor sensor 56 or the representative value (mode, median or average) of the detection values ​​of multiple odor sensors 56 detected within a prescribed period. The higher the level of the odor, the stronger the odor. In the case where it is determined that the level of the odor in the room I is above the prescribed level ("Yes" in step S23), the processing is transferred to step S30. In the case where it is determined that the level of the odor in the room I is not above the prescribed level ("No" in step S23), the processing is transferred to step S31.

[0170] It should be noted that an odor sensor may also be installed outdoors. When it is determined that the outdoor odor level detected by the outdoor odor sensor is above a specified level, the control unit C causes the air-conditioning device 1 to perform exhaust operation. When it is determined that the outdoor odor level is not above the specified level, the control unit C causes the air-conditioning device 1 to perform air supply operation.

[0171] (8) Fifth Example of Operation of Air Conditioning Device

[0172] like Figure 4 and Fig.11 As shown, in step S40, the air conditioner 1 receives a stop instruction from the remote controller 40. At this time, it is determined whether the air conditioner 1 has received a stop instruction in a state where moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger 34. In the case where the air conditioner 1 has received a stop instruction in a state where moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger 34 ("Yes" in step S40), the process is transferred to step S41. In the case where the air conditioner 1 has not received a stop instruction in a state where moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger 34 ("No" in step S40), the process is transferred to step S42.

[0173] In step S41, the control unit C determines to perform exhaust operation and causes the air conditioner 1 to perform exhaust operation. The exhaust operation discharges moisture attached to the indoor heat exchanger 34 to the outside, thereby suppressing the increase in humidity in the room 1. After a predetermined time has passed since the air conditioner 1 started the exhaust operation, the process moves to step S42.

[0174] In step S42, the control unit C stops the air conditioner 1. As a result, the power supply of the air conditioner 1 is turned off.

[0175] Next, step S40 will be described.

[0176] In the above-mentioned step S40, the case where the air conditioner 1 receives a stop instruction in a state where moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger 34 may also include the case where the air conditioner 1 in cooling operation receives a stop instruction. In this case, in step S40, the control unit C determines whether the air conditioner 1 in cooling operation receives a stop instruction. If it is determined that the air conditioner 1 in cooling operation receives a stop instruction, the process transfers to step S41, and if it is not determined that it is so, the process transfers to step S42.

[0177] In the above-mentioned step S40, the case where the air conditioner 1 receives a stop instruction in a state where moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger 34 may also include the case where the air conditioner 1 in cooling operation receives a stop instruction and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 34 is lower than the dew point temperature of the air in the room I. Based on the detection results of the indoor air temperature sensor 53 and the detection results of the indoor air humidity sensor 54, the dew point temperature of the air in the room I is output by the control unit C. For example, a first conversion table showing the correspondence between the temperature and relative humidity and the dew point temperature may be prepared in advance, and the dew point temperature may be output using the first conversion table. The temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 34 is detected by a first temperature sensor (not shown) provided in the indoor heat exchanger 34. The temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 34 may not be the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor. For example, a second conversion table showing the correspondence between the temperature of the refrigerant liquid pipe such as the liquid connecting pipe 3 and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 34 may be prepared in advance, a second temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the refrigerant liquid pipe may be provided, and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 34 may be output using the detection result of the second temperature sensor and the second conversion table. In this case, in step S40, the control unit C determines whether the air conditioner 1 in cooling operation has received a stop instruction and whether the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 34 is lower than the dew point temperature of the air in the room I. If it is determined that the air conditioner 1 in cooling operation has received a stop instruction and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 34 is lower than the dew point temperature of the air in the room I, the process is transferred to step S41, and if it is not determined that this is the case, the process is transferred to step S42.

[0178] (9) Sixth Example of Operation of Air Conditioning Device

[0179] like Figure 4 and Fig.12 As shown, in step S50, the control unit C acquires a second sensor signal showing the humidity of the room I from the indoor air humidity sensor 54. The control unit C acquires the second sensor signal over time.

[0180] In step S60, the control unit C determines whether the average value of the humidity of the room I within the prescribed period acquired over time is a value outside the prescribed humidity comfort zone. The prescribed humidity comfort zone is specified with an upper limit and a lower limit, and the humidity in the comfort zone is a value of the humidity within the range below the upper limit and above the lower limit, and is pre-stored in the memory of the air conditioning device 1. In the case where it is determined that the average value of the humidity is a value outside the prescribed humidity comfort zone ("Yes" in step S60), the process is transferred to step S61. In the case where it is determined that the average value of the humidity is not a value outside the prescribed humidity comfort zone ("No" in step S60), the process is transferred to step S71.

[0181] In step S61, the control unit C determines whether the humidity of the room I satisfies a prescribed condition. The description of the prescribed condition will be described later. If it is determined that the prescribed condition is satisfied ("Yes" in step S61), the process is transferred to step S70. If it is determined that the prescribed condition is not satisfied ("No" in step S61), the process is transferred to step S71.

[0182] In step S70, the control unit C determines to perform the exhaust operation, and causes the air conditioner 1 to perform the exhaust operation. In step S71, the control unit C determines to perform the air supply operation, and causes the air conditioner 1 to perform the air supply operation.

[0183] Next, step S61 will be described.

[0184] In step S61, the prescribed condition may include a condition that the ratio of the change in the humidity of the room I to the change in time is greater than a prescribed ratio. In this case, in step S61, the control unit C determines whether the ratio of the change in the humidity of the room I to the change in time is greater than a prescribed ratio. If it is determined to be greater than the prescribed ratio, the process moves to step S70, and if it is not determined to be so, the process moves to step S71.

[0185] In step S61, the prescribed condition may also include a condition that a high-frequency component above a prescribed frequency in the frequency component included in the waveform representing the second sensor signal indicating the humidity of the room I is above a prescribed ratio. In this case, in step S61, the control unit C determines whether a high-frequency component above a prescribed frequency in the frequency component included in the waveform representing the second sensor signal is above a prescribed ratio. If it is determined that the high-frequency component is above the prescribed ratio, the process is transferred to step S70, and if it is not determined that it is so, the process is transferred to step S71.

[0186] When there are many high-frequency components in the second sensor signal indicating the humidity of the room 1, it can be inferred that high-humidity air from a source of high-humidity air (for example, boiling water) has reached the installation location (air conditioner indoor unit 30) of the indoor air humidity sensor 54 from the source. In this case, by performing the exhaust operation, the high-humidity air from the source can be effectively exhausted to the outside. As a result, the humidity of the room 1 can be suppressed from being in an uncomfortable state.

[0187] (10) Seventh Example of Operation of Air Conditioning Device

[0188] The second prediction model is stored in a memory (not shown) of the air conditioning device 1. The second prediction model is a model for outputting a predicted value of a second distance between a source that causes a change in humidity (e.g., boiling water in a kettle) and the air conditioning indoor unit 30. The second prediction model is generated based on the correlation between the change in humidity at the location where the air conditioning indoor unit 30 is located (the change in the detection value of the indoor air humidity sensor 54 within a predetermined time) and the second distance.

[0189] The method for generating the second prediction model is not particularly limited. For example, the second prediction model is generated using AI. As an example of the method for generating the second prediction model by AI, a machine learning method (deep learning) based on a multi-layer artificial neural network can be cited.

[0190] The second prediction model is a learned model that uses the change in humidity (the change in the detection value of the indoor air humidity sensor 54 within a predetermined time) and the second distance as input data, and learns the correspondence between the change in humidity and the second distance. If the input data is input to the second prediction model, the second prediction model outputs output data. The output data includes information showing the predicted value of the second distance.

[0191] The second prediction model may be table information (information that associates a plurality of humidity changes with a plurality of predicted values ​​of the second distance) generated by statistical analysis, for example, by conducting an experiment to investigate the correlation between the humidity change amount and the second distance.

[0192] like Figure 4 and Fig.13 As shown, in step S50, if the control unit C acquires the second sensor signal from the indoor air humidity sensor 54, the process moves to step S51.

[0193] In step S51, the control unit C outputs a predicted value of the second distance based on the detection value of the indoor air humidity sensor 54 and the above-mentioned second prediction model.

[0194] In step S62, the control unit C determines whether the predicted value of the second distance is less than the second specified distance. If it is determined that the predicted value of the second distance is less than the second specified distance ("Yes" in step S62), the process transfers to step S70. If it is determined that the predicted value of the second distance is not less than the second specified distance ("No" in step S62), the process transfers to step S71.

[0195] (11) Eighth Example of Operation of Air Conditioning Device

[0196] like Figure 4 and Fig.14As shown, in step S50, if the control unit C acquires the second sensor signal from the indoor air humidity sensor 54, the process moves to step S63.

[0197] In step S63, the control unit C determines whether the deviation of the average value of the humidity of the room I within the prescribed period from the prescribed humidity comfort zone is greater than the prescribed amount. When the average value of the humidity of the room I is greater than the upper limit of the prescribed humidity comfort zone, the deviation shows the difference between the average value of the humidity of the room I and the upper limit. When the average value of the humidity of the room I is less than the lower limit of the prescribed humidity comfort range, the deviation shows the difference between the average value of the humidity of the room I and the lower limit. When it is determined that the deviation of the average value of the humidity of the room I is greater than the prescribed amount ("Yes" in step S63), the processing is transferred to step S70. When it is determined that the deviation of the average value of the humidity of the room I is not greater than the prescribed amount ("No" in step S63), the processing is transferred to step S71.

[0198] It should be noted that: when it is determined that the detection value of the outdoor air humidity sensor 52 is a value outside the comfort zone of the specified humidity, the control unit C causes the air-conditioning device 1 to perform exhaust operation; when it is determined that the detection value of the outdoor air humidity sensor 52 is not a value outside the comfort zone of the specified humidity, the control unit C causes the air-conditioning device 1 to perform air supply operation.

[0199] (12) Ninth Example of Operation of Air Conditioning Device

[0200] The air conditioning device 1 includes an outdoor air quality sensor (not shown). The outdoor air quality sensor detects the amount of air pollutants in the outdoor air (for example, the amount of particles in the outdoor air). In other words, the amount of air pollutants in the outdoor air indicates the pollution level of the outdoor air. The greater the amount of air pollutants in the air, the higher the pollution level of the air. The outdoor air quality sensor is, for example, provided on the outdoor housing 11 and arranged at the outdoor air inlet 11a (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 2 ) around. The detection value of the outdoor air quality sensor is a second example of a component value.

[0201] like Figure 4 and Fig.15As shown, in step S80, the control unit C obtains information showing the pollution level of the outdoor air from the outdoor air quality sensor. Based on the information obtained from the outdoor air quality sensor, the control unit C determines whether the pollution level of the outdoor air is above a prescribed level. When it is determined that the pollution level of the outdoor air is above the prescribed level ("Yes" in step S80), the process is transferred to step S81. When it is determined that the pollution level of the outdoor air is not above the prescribed level ("No" in step S80), the process is transferred to step S82.

[0202] In step S81, the control unit C determines to perform an exhaust operation, and causes the air conditioner 1 to perform an exhaust operation. In step S82, the control unit C determines to perform an air supply operation, and causes the air conditioner 1 to perform an air supply operation.

[0203] (13) The tenth example of the operation of the air conditioner

[0204] The air conditioning device 1 includes an indoor air quality sensor (not shown). The indoor air quality sensor detects the amount of atmospheric pollutants in the air in the room I (for example, the amount of particles in the indoor air). The indoor air quality sensor is, for example, disposed on the indoor housing 31 and arranged at the indoor air inlet 31a (see Figure 2 ).

[0205] In the tenth example, during the air supply operation, when the detection value of the indoor air quality sensor increases over time and the degree of increase of the detection value of the indoor air quality sensor relative to the change of time exceeds a prescribed degree, the control unit C decides to perform the exhaust operation, thereby switching from the air supply operation to the exhaust operation. During the air supply operation, when the detection value of the indoor air quality sensor in the room I does not increase over time or the degree of increase of the detection value of the indoor air quality sensor relative to the change of time does not exceed a prescribed degree, the control unit C decides to continue the air supply operation, thereby continuing the air supply operation.

[0206] (14) Eleventh Example of Operation of Air Conditioning Device

[0207] The air conditioner 1 includes an odor sensor 56. When the detection value of the odor sensor 56 (the concentration of the odor component in the indoor air) increases over time, and the degree of increase of the detection value of the odor sensor 56 relative to the change over time exceeds a predetermined degree, the control unit C determines to perform exhaust operation, thereby switching from the air supply operation to the exhaust operation. During the air supply operation, when the detection value of the odor sensor 56 does not increase over time, or the degree of increase of the detection value of the odor sensor 56 relative to the change over time does not exceed a predetermined degree, the control unit C determines to continue the air supply operation, thereby continuing the air supply operation.

[0208] The above embodiments and variations are described, but it should be understood that various changes can be made to the form and specific circumstances without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims (for example, the following (A) to (F)). In addition, the above embodiments, variations and other elements of the embodiments can be appropriately combined or replaced.

[0209] The terms "first", "second", "third", etc. mentioned above are used to distinguish sentences containing the above terms, and do not limit the number and order of the sentences.

[0210] (A) Regarding the first example of the operation of the air conditioning device 1 described above (see Figure 7 )~Example 4 (ref. Fig.10 )、Case 9 (refer to Fig.15 ), the tenth example and the eleventh example, the intensity of the odor or the amount of particles are used as the component value. However, the types of component values ​​are not limited thereto. The component value can be any value that affects the comfort of the user regarding the air environment of the room I, for example, it can be the concentration of harmful gases, the concentration of carbon dioxide, etc. The component values ​​(the intensity of the odor or the amount of particles) respectively shown in the first to fourth examples, the ninth example, the tenth example and the eleventh example regarding the operation of the air-conditioning device 1 can produce the same effect even if they are replaced with other types of component values ​​(the concentration of harmful gases, the concentration of carbon dioxide, etc.).

[0211] (B) A passage may be provided inside the indoor casing 31 of the air conditioner indoor unit 30, and the passage guides the air sent from the outside to the inside of the indoor casing 31 during the air supply operation toward the suction side of the indoor heat exchanger 34. In this case, the control unit C may compare the detection value of the outdoor air humidity sensor 52 with the detection value of the indoor air temperature sensor 53, and when the outdoor humidity is higher than the indoor humidity, the air conditioner 1 performs the air supply operation. Thus, since the outdoor air sent to the air conditioner indoor unit 30 is immediately dehumidified by the indoor heat exchanger 34, the outdoor air can be dehumidified more effectively than the case where the outdoor air does not immediately reach the indoor heat exchanger 34, but reaches the indoor heat exchanger 34 in a thin state after mixing with the indoor air, and then is dehumidified by the indoor heat exchanger 34.

[0212] (C) When the air conditioner 1 is started, the control unit C may also cause the air conditioner 1 to perform exhaust operation. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the generation of uncomfortable odors in the room I when the air treatment device 1 is started. In addition, when moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger 34, it is possible to suppress the supply of high-humidity air to the room I when the air treatment device 1 is started.

[0213] (D) When the air conditioner 1 is activated, the control unit C may stop the rotation of the outdoor fan 13 .

[0214] (E) When the air conditioning device 1 is started, the control unit C may also close the indoor air outlet 31b by closing the air guide plate 37. The air guide plate 37 is an example of a wind deflector. The wind deflector may also be a louver. Thus, it is possible to prevent outdoor air from being sent indoors when the air treatment device 1 is started.

[0215] (F) Reference Fig.16 , a modified example of the air conditioning device 1 is described. The following describes the differences from the above-mentioned embodiment. It should be noted that Fig.14 In the figure, for convenience, the illustration of the air-conditioning indoor unit 30 and the air-conditioning outdoor unit 10 is omitted.

[0216] like Fig.14 As shown, in a modified example of the air conditioning device 1, Figure 2 The difference between the air conditioning device 1 shown is that the second fan 23 and the third passage 62 are not provided.

[0217] In a modified example of the air conditioner 1, Figure 2 The air conditioning apparatus 1 shown is different in the operation content of the humidification operation among the operation operations (3-1) to (3-8) described above.

[0218] In the modified example of the air conditioner 1, during the humidification operation, the air humidified by the humidity control unit 20 is intermittently supplied to the room I. In the modified example of the air conditioner 1, during the humidification operation, the humidity control unit 20 alternately performs the third action and the fourth action. The third action is an action of causing the humidity control rotor 22 to adsorb moisture in the air and discharge the air passing through the humidity control rotor 22 to the outside. The fourth action is an action of regenerating the humidity control rotor 22 and supplying the air that has obtained moisture from the humidity control rotor 22 to the room I.

[0219] Specifically, in the third action, the control unit C operates the first fan 26, stops the heater 25, sets the first switching air valve 24 to the fourth state, and sets the second switching air valve 29 to the fifth state. The air delivered by the first fan 26 flows through the first passage 27 and passes through the humidity control area 22A of the humidity control rotor 22. In the humidity control area 22A, moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. Figure 7 As shown by the black arrow in FIG. 2 , the air after moisture is imparted to the adsorbent in the humidity control area 22A flows from the first passage 27 to the second passage 28 and is discharged to the outside.

[0220] In the fourth action, the control unit C operates the first fan 26 and the heater 25, sets the first switching air valve 24 to the third state, and sets the second switching air valve 29 to the fifth state. The air delivered by the first fan 26 flows in the first passage 27, and after being heated by the heater 25, flows through the humidity control area 22A of the humidity control rotor 22. In the humidity control area 22A, the adsorbent is regenerated. Specifically, the moisture adsorbed to the adsorbent is detached and released into the air. The air containing the moisture detached from the humidity control rotor 22 is sent to the air conditioner indoor unit 30 through the hose 2, and is supplied to the indoor I from the indoor outlet 31b of the air conditioner indoor unit 30.

[0221] - Industrial Applicability -

[0222] In summary, the present disclosure is useful for air handling devices.

[0223] - Explanation of symbols -

[0224] 1 Air conditioning unit (air handling unit)

[0225] 10 Refrigeration unit

[0226] 13 Outdoor fan (fan)

[0227] 30 Air conditioner indoor unit (indoor unit)

[0228] 34 Indoor heat exchanger

[0229] 37 Wind deflector (wind guide plate)

[0230] 53 Indoor air temperature sensor (temperature sensor)

[0231] 54 Indoor air humidity sensor (humidity sensor)

[0232] C Control Unit

[0233] I indoor

Claims

1. An air treatment device for ventilating a room (I), characterized in that: The air treatment device includes a control unit (C) for controlling the operation of the air treatment device. The control unit (C) controls the air handling device to perform either an exhaust operation for sending indoor (I) air to the outdoors or an air supply operation for sending outdoor air to the indoor (I) based on the indoor environment or the outdoor environment.

2. The air treatment device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The air treatment device comprises an indoor heat exchanger (34) arranged in an indoor unit (30) of the air treatment device. When the air handling device receives a stop instruction in a state where moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger (34), the control unit (C) causes the air handling device to perform the exhaust operation.

3. The air treatment device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The case where the air handling device receives a stop instruction in a state where moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger (34) includes a case where the air handling device receives a stop instruction while in cooling operation.

4. The air treatment device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The air handling device receives a stop instruction while moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger (34), including a situation where the air handling device receives a stop instruction while in cooling operation and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) is lower than the dew point temperature of the air in the room (I).

5. The air treatment device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit (C) causes the air handling device to perform either the exhaust operation or the air supply operation based on the humidity of the room (I) or the humidity of the outside.

6. The air treatment device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The control unit (C) causes the air handling device to perform either the exhaust operation or the air supply operation based on information indicating the humidity of the room (I) acquired over time.

7. The air treatment device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit (C) causes the air handling device to perform either the exhaust operation or the air supply operation based on the component value in the indoor (I) air or the component value in the outdoor air. The component value indicates the amount of a predetermined gas component in the air, the concentration of a predetermined gas component in the air, or the amount of particles in the air.

8. The air treatment device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The control unit (C) causes the air handling device to perform either the exhaust operation or the air supply operation based on the information indicating the component value in the room (I) acquired over time.

9. The air treatment device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: When the ratio of the change in the component value in the room (I) relative to the change over time is greater than a predetermined ratio, the control unit (C) causes the air handling device to perform the exhaust operation.

10. The air treatment device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: The control unit (C) obtains a first sensor signal indicating the component value in the room (I), and when a high-frequency component above a specified frequency in a frequency component included in a waveform representing the first sensor signal is above a specified ratio, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.

11. The air treatment device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: During the air supply operation, when the component value in the room (I) increases over time and the degree of increase exceeds a predetermined degree, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.

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