Air conditioning device and air conditioning system

Abstract

An air-conditioning device is an air-conditioning device for air-conditioning a region to be air-conditioned. An air conditioning device is provided with: a control unit having a plurality of control function units for air conditioning; and a function setting unit (139) that determines, from among the plurality of control function units, a control function unit that becomes effective for actual use in air conditioning control, on the basis of model information that is information indicating the model of the air conditioning device. The control unit activates a control function unit, which is a control function unit determined to be activated in the function setting unit (139). The air conditioning device achieves the effects of reducing failure, reducing size and stabilizing quality with a simple structure, and can cope with the control of a plurality of different types.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioning apparatus and an air conditioning system in which a control substrate can be commonly used in a plurality of different models. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 describes the following: In an air-conditioning apparatus, a capacity control operation program for executing capacity control of an inverter compressor and a constant speed operation program for executing constant speed control of a constant speed compressor are stored in an operation program storage unit, and based on a combination of information related to the type of compressor stored in a model information storage unit and the state of a jumper wire, an operation program to be used is selected from the capacity control operation program and the constant speed operation program and executed.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-115665

[0004] According to the technology of Patent Document 1, a single control program that integrates multiple operating functions corresponding to each model is used to standardize control programs across multiple air conditioner models. However, in order to select a desired operating program from the single control program integrating multiple operating functions, the technology of Patent Document 1 requires the installation of function setting components such as jumpers and dip switches on the control board, complicating the structure. This increases the size of the control board and air conditioner, and increases the likelihood of failure. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioning apparatus that can achieve reduced failures, miniaturization, and stable quality with a simple structure, and can cope with control of a plurality of different models.

[0006] To address the aforementioned issues and achieve the objectives, the air conditioning apparatus disclosed herein is an air conditioning apparatus for performing air conditioning in an air conditioning target area. The air conditioning apparatus includes: a control unit having multiple control function units for performing air conditioning; and a function setting unit that, based on model information representing the model of the air conditioning apparatus, determines which control function unit, among the multiple control function units, should be enabled for actual use in controlling the air conditioning. The control unit enables the control function unit determined to be enabled by the function setting unit.

[0007] The air conditioning apparatus of the present disclosure achieves the effects of reducing failures, achieving miniaturization, and stabilizing quality with a simple structure, and being able to cope with control of a plurality of different models. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 This is a configuration diagram schematically showing the configuration of the air-conditioning apparatus according to Embodiment 1.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the indoor unit of the air-conditioning apparatus according to Embodiment 1.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the outdoor unit of the air-conditioning apparatus according to Embodiment 1.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing an example of model information in the air-conditioning apparatus according to Embodiment 1.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the contents of the function setting list in the air-conditioning apparatus according to Embodiment 1.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the remote controller of the air-conditioning apparatus according to Embodiment 1.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing a process related to activation of the control function unit of the air-conditioning apparatus according to Embodiment 1.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of an outdoor unit of an air-conditioning apparatus in Embodiment 2.

[0016] Figure 9 This is a flowchart showing a process related to activation of a control function unit and setting of control constants of the air-conditioning apparatus in the second embodiment.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of an air-conditioning system according to the third embodiment.

[0018] Figure 11 This is a block diagram showing the structure of a network server according to a third embodiment.

[0019] Figure 12 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a remote monitoring device according to a third embodiment.

[0020] Figure 13 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the central controller according to the third embodiment.

[0021] Figure 14 This is a flowchart showing a process related to activation of a control function unit of the air-conditioning system according to the third embodiment.

[0022] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing a configuration in which each function of the control unit in Embodiments 1, 2, and 3 is realized by hardware.

[0023] Figure 16This is a diagram showing a configuration in which each function of a control unit in Embodiments 1, 2, and 3 is realized by software. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Hereinafter, an air-conditioning apparatus and an air-conditioning system according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0025] Implementation method 1.

[0026] Figure 1 : is a structural diagram schematically showing the structure of the air conditioning device 10 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 1 As shown, the air conditioning apparatus 10 of Embodiment 1 includes an indoor unit 11 installed indoors, an outdoor unit 13 installed outdoors, a refrigerant pipe 17 for circulating refrigerant between the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 13, and a remote controller 15 for transmitting control instructions for the air conditioning apparatus 10 to the indoor unit 11. The outdoor unit 13 can communicate with the indoor unit 11 via a communication line (not shown). Hereinafter, the remote controller may be referred to as a remote controller.

[0027] The air conditioning system 10 consists of an indoor unit 11 and an outdoor unit 13, forming a complete refrigeration cycle. The air conditioning system 10 uses refrigerant, which circulates between the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 13 via a refrigerant pipe 17, to transfer heat between the indoor air and the outdoor air in the air-conditioning space, thereby achieving indoor air conditioning. Specifically, the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 13 are connected by the refrigerant pipe 17. The compressor in the outdoor unit 13 changes the pressure of the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant pipe 17, thereby achieving air conditioning through the refrigerant absorbing and dissipating heat.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the indoor unit 11 of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 according to Embodiment 1. The indoor unit 11 includes an indoor air-conditioning unit 111, an indoor sensor 112, an indoor storage unit 113, an indoor communication unit 114, an indoor sensor input unit 115, an indoor external output unit 116, an indoor external input / output unit 117, and an indoor control unit 118. The indoor storage unit 113, the indoor communication unit 114, the indoor sensor input unit 115, the indoor external output unit 116, the indoor external input / output unit 117, and the indoor control unit 118 are mounted on an indoor control board 119, which serves as a single control board for the indoor unit 11.

[0029] The indoor air conditioning unit 111 performs the air conditioning functions of the indoor unit of a typical air conditioning system and performs indoor air conditioning within the air-conditioning target area. The indoor air conditioning unit 111 includes an indoor heat exchanger (not shown) that performs heat exchange between the air taken into the indoor unit 11 and the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant circuit; a blower fan (not shown) that delivers the conditioned air, which has undergone heat exchange in the indoor heat exchanger, from the indoor unit 11 into the room; and an air direction adjustment unit (not shown) that adjusts the direction in which the conditioned air is delivered from the indoor unit 11. The air taken into the indoor unit 11 is the indoor air of the room where the indoor unit 11 is installed.

[0030] The indoor unit sensor 112 is a detector that detects the state of the air conditioning device 10 and the state of the operating environment of the air conditioning device 10 to control the air conditioning device 10. Examples of the indoor unit sensor 112 include an indoor temperature sensor that detects the indoor temperature, a room occupancy sensor that detects the presence of a person in the room, and a position sensor that detects the position of each motor installed in the indoor unit 11.

[0031] The indoor unit storage unit 113 stores various control setting values ​​and control programs for controlling the operation of the air conditioning apparatus 10 including the outdoor unit 13. The indoor unit storage unit 113 is a nonvolatile storage unit formed of a semiconductor storage medium such as a flash memory.

[0032] The indoor unit communication unit 114 communicates with devices external to the indoor unit 11. Specifically, the indoor unit communication unit 114 communicates with communication units of devices external to the indoor unit 11, such as the remote control communication unit 154 (described later) of the remote control 15 and the outdoor unit communication unit 134 (described later) of the outdoor unit 13. The indoor unit communication unit 114 transmits information received from the communication unit of the device external to the indoor unit 11 to the indoor unit control unit 118 via the indoor unit external input / output unit 117. The indoor unit communication unit 114 transmits information received from the indoor unit control unit 118 via the indoor unit external input / output unit 117 to the communication unit of the device external to the indoor unit 11.

[0033] The communication method between the communication unit of the external device and the indoor unit communication unit 114 may be wired communication, infrared communication, wireless communication using Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc.

[0034] The indoor unit sensor input unit 115 receives sensor information representing a detection result from the indoor unit sensor 112 from the indoor unit sensor 112. The indoor unit sensor input unit 115 transmits the received sensor information to the indoor unit control unit 118 via the indoor unit external input / output unit 117.

[0035] The indoor unit external output unit 116 performs a process for outputting control commands to an actuator (not shown) installed in the indoor unit 11. Specifically, the indoor unit external output unit 116 receives control commands for the actuator installed in the indoor unit 11 from the indoor unit control unit 118 and transmits the received control commands to the actuator installed in the indoor unit 11.

[0036] The indoor unit external input / output unit 117 functions as an interface between the indoor unit communication unit 114, the indoor unit sensor input unit 115, the indoor unit external output unit 116, and the indoor unit control unit 118. The indoor unit external input / output unit 117 receives sensor information transmitted from the indoor unit sensor input unit 115 and transmits the sensor information to the indoor unit control unit 118. The indoor unit external input / output unit 117 receives various types of information transmitted from the indoor unit communication unit 114 and transmits the information to the indoor unit control unit 118. The indoor unit external input / output unit 117 receives various types of information transmitted from the indoor unit control unit 118 and transmits the information to the indoor unit communication unit 114. The indoor unit external input / output unit 117 receives various types of control information transmitted from the indoor unit control unit 118 and transmits the information to the indoor unit communication unit 114 or the indoor unit external output unit 116.

[0037] The indoor unit control unit 118 is a control unit that controls the overall operation of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 , and controls the operation of the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 13 to control the operation of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 .

[0038] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the outdoor unit 13 of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 according to Embodiment 1. The outdoor unit 13 includes an outdoor unit air-conditioning unit 131, an outdoor unit sensor 132, an outdoor unit storage unit 133, an outdoor unit communication unit 134, an outdoor unit sensor input unit 135, an outdoor unit external output unit 136, an outdoor unit external input / output unit 137, an outdoor unit control unit 138, and a function setting unit 139. The outdoor unit storage unit 133, the outdoor unit communication unit 134, the outdoor unit sensor input unit 135, the outdoor unit external output unit 136, the outdoor unit external input / output unit 137, the outdoor unit control unit 138, and the function setting unit 139 are mounted on an outdoor unit control board 140, which serves as a single control board for the outdoor unit 13.

[0039] The outdoor air conditioner 131 performs the air conditioning functions of a typical outdoor unit of an air conditioning system and performs indoor air conditioning in the air-conditioned area. It includes an outdoor heat exchanger (not shown) that performs heat exchange between the air taken into the outdoor unit 13 and the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant circuit, a refrigerant pressure switch, a solenoid valve for adjusting the refrigerant flow rate, a fan motor, a compressor, and actuators such as the compressor motor. The air taken into the outdoor unit 13 is the outdoor air surrounding the outdoor unit 13, or external air.

[0040] The outdoor unit sensor 132 is a detector that detects the state of the air conditioning device 10 and the state of the operating environment of the air conditioning device 10 to control the air conditioning device 10. Examples of the outdoor unit sensor 132 include an outdoor temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the outdoor air, i.e., the outside air; a pressure sensor that detects the pressure of the compressor included in the outdoor unit 13; a position sensor that detects the position of each motor provided in the outdoor unit 13; and a rotation speed sensor that detects the rotation speed of each motor provided in the outdoor unit 13.

[0041] The outdoor unit storage unit 133 stores information such as various control settings and programs used to control the operation of the outdoor unit 13. The outdoor unit storage unit 133 stores model information, system information, control information, abnormality information, a function setting list, and control programs. In other words, the outdoor unit storage unit 133 functions as a storage unit for storing the function setting list. The outdoor unit storage unit 133 is a nonvolatile storage unit composed of a semiconductor storage medium such as flash memory.

[0042] Furthermore, the outdoor unit storage unit 133 stores individual control programs corresponding to operation control of a plurality of different types of outdoor units so that the outdoor unit control substrate 140 including the outdoor unit control unit 138 can be used in common in a plurality of different types of outdoor units 13 .

[0043] The model information indicates the model of the air conditioner 10 and is information specific to the model of the air conditioner 10. Model information is unique information that varies between models, even within the same product line, and includes information identifying the control functions used in each air conditioner 10. Specifically, the model information includes information for identifying the control program used to control the air conditioner 10 from among the separate control programs stored in the air conditioner 10 corresponding to the operational control of multiple outdoor units of different models.

[0044] Figure 4 1 is a diagram showing an example of model information in the air-conditioning device 10 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 4The information included in the model information, that is, the information that can be read from the model information, is also shown. The model information includes, for example, information on the type of inverter control of the compressor of the outdoor unit 13, information on the unit type of the air conditioner 10, information on the type of refrigerant used by the air conditioner 10, information on the capacity band of the air conditioner 10, and information on the power type of the air conditioner 10.

[0045] like Figure 4 As shown in FIG, the model information is composed of a character string composed of letters and numbers. Figure 4 In the model information "PUZ-ZRMP56SKA12" shown, the characters "Z" indicate the type of inverter control of the compressor of the outdoor unit 13. The characters "ZR" indicate the type of unit type of the air conditioner 10. The characters "M" indicate the type of refrigerant used by the air conditioner 10. The characters "P56" indicate the capacity band of the outdoor unit 13 of the air conditioner 10. The characters "S" indicate the type of power of the air conditioner 10. In addition, Figure 4 The model information shown is an example, and other information related to the air conditioner 10 may be included in the model information.

[0046] The system information is information indicating the system configuration of the air-conditioning apparatus 10. The control information is information on the control history of the air-conditioning apparatus 10. The abnormality occurrence information is information on abnormalities occurring in the air-conditioning apparatus 10.

[0047] The function setting list includes information on associations between information included in the model information and functions enabled as actually used functions among the multiple control functions executable by the air conditioner 10, that is, information on associations between information included in the model information and control function units enabled as actually used control function units among the multiple control function units executable by the air conditioner 10. In other words, the function setting list can be considered control function correspondence information indicating the correspondence between information included in the model information and control functions executable by the air conditioner 10, or control function unit correspondence information indicating the correspondence between information included in the model information and control function units executable by the air conditioner 10. Furthermore, for example, when the inverter control type is A, the function setting list includes information for specifying the control function unit to be enabled from the model information of the air conditioner 10 in order to enable the A control unit that performs A control.

[0048] Therefore, the outdoor unit storage unit 133 functions as a storage unit for storing the function setting list. In other words, the outdoor unit storage unit 133 functions as a storage unit for storing correspondence information of the control function units.

[0049] Figure 5 : is a diagram showing the contents of the function setting list in the air-conditioning apparatus 10 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 5 In the function setting list shown, for example, for inverter control, for inverter control type A, the corresponding control function unit for performing A control is the A control unit. For inverter control type B, the corresponding control function unit for performing B control is the B control unit. For inverter control type C, the corresponding control function unit for performing C control is the C control unit. That is, in Figure 5 In the function setting list shown in FIG, the inverter control type A is associated with the A control unit that performs A control. Figure 5 In the function setting list shown in FIG, the inverter control type B is associated with the B control unit that performs B control. Figure 5 In the function setting list shown, the inverter control type C is associated with a C control unit that performs C control.

[0050] In addition, Figure 5 In the function setting list shown in FIG. 1 , for unit types, for unit type D, the corresponding control function unit for D control, i.e., the D control unit, corresponds to the control function unit for E control. For unit type E, the corresponding control function unit for E control, i.e., the E control unit, corresponds to the control function unit for F control. In addition, in Figure 5 In the function setting list shown, regarding the refrigerant types, for refrigerant type G, a G control unit that performs G control corresponds to the refrigerant type G. For refrigerant type H, a H control unit that performs H control corresponds to the refrigerant type H.

[0051] In addition, Figure 5 In the function setting list shown in FIG, for capability bands, capability band I corresponds to an I control unit that performs I control. Figure 5 In the function setting list shown, for the power type, the J control unit that performs J control corresponds to the power type J. The K control unit that performs K control corresponds to the power type K. Figure 5 The function setting list shown is an example, and the form of the function setting list is not limited as long as the correspondence between the information included in the model information and the control functions executable by the air conditioner 10 is known.

[0052] By using Figure 5 The function setting list shown above can identify the control function units enabled in the air-conditioning apparatus 10 from the information included in the model information.

[0053] Furthermore, while Embodiment 1 describes a case where the outdoor unit storage unit 133 functions as a storage unit for storing a function setting list, the storage unit for storing the function setting list is not limited to the outdoor unit storage unit 133. The storage unit for storing the function setting list may also be a storage unit provided independently of the outdoor unit storage unit 133 in the outdoor unit control board 140. In this case, the storage unit for storing the function setting list is also a nonvolatile storage unit formed of a semiconductor storage medium such as a flash memory.

[0054] The outdoor unit communication unit 134 communicates with devices external to the outdoor unit 13. Specifically, the outdoor unit communication unit 134 communicates with the communication unit of a device external to the outdoor unit 13, such as the indoor unit communication unit 114 of the indoor unit 11. The outdoor unit communication unit 134 transmits information received from the communication unit of the device external to the outdoor unit 13 via the outdoor unit external input / output unit 137 to the function setting unit 139 or the outdoor unit control unit 138. The outdoor unit communication unit 134 transmits information received from the outdoor unit control unit 138 via the outdoor unit external input / output unit 137 to the communication unit of the device external to the outdoor unit 13.

[0055] The communication method between the communication unit of the external device and the outdoor unit communication unit 134 may be wired communication, infrared communication, wireless communication using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or the like.

[0056] The outdoor unit sensor input unit 135 receives sensor information representing a detection result from the outdoor unit sensor 132 from the outdoor unit sensor 132. The outdoor unit sensor input unit 135 transmits the received sensor information to the outdoor unit control unit 138 via the outdoor unit external input / output unit 137.

[0057] The outdoor unit external output unit 136 performs a process for outputting control commands to actuators provided in the outdoor unit 13, such as an expansion valve and a solenoid valve, included in the outdoor unit 13. Specifically, the outdoor unit external output unit 136 receives control commands for the actuators provided in the outdoor unit 13 from the outdoor unit control unit 138 and transmits the received control commands to the actuators provided in the outdoor unit 13.

[0058] The outdoor unit external input / output unit 137 functions as an interface between the outdoor unit communication unit 134, the outdoor unit sensor input unit 135, the outdoor unit external output unit 136, and the outdoor unit control unit 138. The outdoor unit external input / output unit 137 receives sensor information transmitted from the outdoor unit sensor input unit 135 and transmits the sensor information to the outdoor unit control unit 138. The outdoor unit external input / output unit 137 receives various types of information transmitted from the outdoor unit communication unit 134 and transmits the information to the outdoor unit control unit 138 or the function setting unit 139. The outdoor unit external input / output unit 137 receives various types of information transmitted from the outdoor unit control unit 138 and transmits the information to the outdoor unit communication unit 134. The outdoor unit external input / output unit 137 receives various types of control information transmitted from the outdoor unit control unit 138 and transmits the information to the outdoor unit communication unit 134 or the outdoor unit external output unit 136.

[0059] The outdoor unit control unit 138 controls the operation of the air conditioning unit 10, controlling the operation of the outdoor unit 13 and thereby controlling the operation of the air conditioning unit 10. The outdoor unit control unit 138 has multiple control functions for controlling the operation of the air conditioning unit 10, namely, multiple control functional units for controlling the operation of the air conditioning unit 10. Furthermore, the outdoor unit control unit 138 has multiple separate control functional units corresponding to the operation control of multiple different outdoor unit models. This allows the outdoor unit control unit 138 to control the operation of multiple different outdoor unit models. In other words, the outdoor unit control unit 138 can be said to be a control group that aggregates the multiple control functional units for controlling the operation of the air conditioning unit 10.

[0060] like Figure 3 As shown, the outdoor unit control unit 138 includes, for example, an A control unit 138A, a B control unit 138B, a C control unit 138C, a D control unit 138D, an E control unit 138E, and an F control unit 138F as a plurality of control function units for controlling the operation of the air conditioner 10. Figure 3 In the figure, only six control units are shown.

[0061] Each control function unit is packaged according to the control type and has functions for setting control parameters, determining control, and instructing operation. In other words, each control function unit is implemented using a control program created for each control type. Each control function unit can independently activate or deactivate the outdoor unit control unit 138.

[0062] Here, validation means setting the control function part of the outdoor unit control unit 138 to be usable in order to actually use it in the control of air conditioning in the air-conditioning target area in the outdoor unit 13, that is, setting the control function of the outdoor unit control unit 138 to be usable so that a control program prepared according to the control type can be used.

[0063] The function setting unit 139 determines which control function units are available in the outdoor unit control unit 138, among the multiple control function units included in the outdoor unit control unit 138. The function setting unit 139 compares the information related to the air conditioner 10 obtained from the model information with the function setting list to determine which control function units are enabled among the multiple control function units included in the outdoor unit control unit 138. Specifically, the function setting unit 139 determines which control function is enabled among the multiple control functions included in the outdoor unit control unit 138 based on the model information and the function setting list. The function setting unit 139 determines the control function unit corresponding to the information related to the air conditioner 10 included in the model information in the function setting list as the enabled control function unit.

[0064] The function setting unit 139 transmits to the outdoor unit control unit 138 information indicating the control function unit determined to be enabled, and also information indicating the control function unit enabled in the outdoor unit control unit 138. Upon receiving the activation information transmitted from the function setting unit 139, the outdoor unit control unit 138 activates the control function unit indicated by the activation information. The activation information can use, for example, a set value previously determined for each control function unit. Upon receiving the information indicating the set value as the activation information, the outdoor unit control unit 138 activates the control function unit corresponding to the set value. Specifically, based on the model information and the function setting list, the function setting unit 139 specifies the control function unit to be enabled by the outdoor unit control unit 138, causing the outdoor unit control unit 138 to activate the designated control function unit.

[0065] Therefore, the function setting unit 139 has the function of determining a control function unit to be enabled among the plurality of control function units of the outdoor unit control unit 138 based on the model information and the function setting list, and enabling the control function unit determined to be enabled.

[0066] Figure 6 This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the remote controller 15 of the air conditioning apparatus 10 according to Embodiment 1. The remote controller 15 includes a remote controller operation unit 151 , a remote controller display unit 152 , a remote controller storage unit 153 , a remote controller communication unit 154 , and a remote controller control unit 155 .

[0067] The remote controller operation unit 151 receives setting operations related to air conditioning of the air-conditioning apparatus 10. When receiving an operation from a user, the remote controller operation unit 151 outputs information corresponding to the user's operation to the remote controller control unit 155 as an operation signal.

[0068] The remote control display unit 152 is a display unit that displays various information, displays information and status required for air conditioning of the air conditioning unit 10 such as the set temperature and operation mode of the air conditioning unit 10, and switches and displays the screen corresponding to the operation in the remote control operation unit 151.

[0069] The remote controller storage unit 153 stores various information required for air conditioning processing in the air-conditioning apparatus 10 , and temporarily or long-term stores setting contents to be displayed on the remote controller display unit 152 and image data related to the setting contents.

[0070] The remote controller communication unit 154 can perform bidirectional information communication with the indoor unit communication unit 114 of the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit communication unit 134 of the outdoor unit 13. The communication between the indoor unit communication unit 114 and the outdoor unit communication unit 134 and the remote controller communication unit 154 can be wireless or wired communication.

[0071] The remote controller control unit 155 controls the remote controller 15 based on the operation signal output from the remote controller operation unit 151 .

[0072] Next, according to Figure 7 The flowchart shown explains the operation of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing a process related to activation of the control function unit of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 according to Embodiment 1.

[0073] In step S110, the model information is stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the outdoor unit 13 of the air conditioner 10. Specifically, when the air conditioner 10 is manufactured in a factory, the model information is stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the air conditioner 10. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S120.

[0074] In step S120, the function setting list is stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133. Specifically, the function setting list is stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the outdoor unit 13 of the air conditioner 10 when the air conditioner 10 is manufactured in a factory.

[0075] The air conditioner 10 is shipped from the factory with the model information and function setting list stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 and installed at a user's home or office. With the model information and function setting list stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133, the air conditioner 10 is installed at the installation location and is ready for use. The processes of steps S110 and S120 may be reversed. The process then proceeds to step S130.

[0076] In step S130, the power of the air conditioner 10 is turned on. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S140.

[0077] In step S140, the model information is read from the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the outdoor unit 13. Specifically, the function setting unit 139 of the outdoor unit control unit 138 of the outdoor unit 13 reads and acquires the model information stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S150.

[0078] In step S150, the model information is analyzed. Specifically, the function setting unit 139 analyzes the read model information and obtains information related to the air conditioner 10 included in the model information. For example, the function setting unit 139 analyzes the model information. Figure 4 In the case of the model information shown, the following information is obtained: inverter control type, ultra-thin ZR model unit type, R32 refrigerant type, 56kW capacity, and single-phase 200V power type. The process then proceeds to step S160.

[0079] In step S160, the function setting list is read from the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the outdoor unit 13. Specifically, the function setting unit 139 reads and acquires the function setting list stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S170.

[0080] In step S170, the enabled control function unit is determined based on the function setting list. Specifically, the function setting unit 139 compares the information related to the air conditioner 10 obtained from the model information in step S150 with the function setting list obtained in step S160 to determine the enabled control function unit among the multiple control function units of the outdoor unit control unit 138. The function setting unit 139 determines the control function unit corresponding to the information related to the air conditioner 10 included in the model information in the function setting list as the enabled control function unit.

[0081] The function setting unit 139 transmits activation information, which is information about the control function unit determined to be activated, to the outdoor unit control unit 138. The outdoor unit control unit 138 receives the activation information transmitted from the function setting unit 139. Then, the process proceeds to step S180.

[0082] In step S180, the control function unit corresponding to the model of the air conditioner 10 is enabled. Specifically, the outdoor unit control unit 138 sets the control function unit corresponding to the model of the air conditioner 10 to be enabled. The outdoor unit control unit 138 sets the control function unit indicated by the activation information to be enabled in the outdoor unit control unit 138, among the plurality of control function units included in the outdoor unit control unit 138.

[0083] Specifically, the outdoor unit control unit 138 effectively sets the control function indicated by the activation information among the multiple control functions possessed by the outdoor unit control unit 138. Validating the control function indicated by the activation information in the outdoor unit control unit 138 can be said to be a control program created for each control type, which is used to implement the function of the control function indicated by the activation information. Furthermore, when the air conditioner 10 is shipped from the factory, all control function units are disabled.

[0084] Thereafter, in the air conditioning apparatus 10, the indoor unit control unit 118 and the outdoor unit control unit 138 perform air conditioning control of the air conditioning apparatus 10 in accordance with the control command transmitted from the remote controller 15. Here, the outdoor unit control unit 138 controls the operation of the air conditioning apparatus 10 in accordance with the control command transmitted from the remote controller 15 by controlling the control function unit enabled in step S180.

[0085] Specifically, a start command is transmitted from the remote controller 15 to the indoor unit control unit 118 of the indoor unit 11. Upon receiving the start command, the indoor unit control unit 118 starts operating the indoor unit 11 and transmits the start command to the outdoor unit control unit 138. Upon receiving the start command from the indoor unit control unit 118, the outdoor unit control unit 138 starts operating the outdoor unit 13. Subsequently, in the air conditioning apparatus 10, the indoor unit control unit 118 and the outdoor unit control unit 138 perform air conditioning control of the air conditioning apparatus 10 in accordance with the control command transmitted from the remote controller 15. The outdoor unit control unit 138 then controls the operation of the air conditioning apparatus 10 in accordance with the control command transmitted from the remote controller 15, through the control function unit activated in step S180.

[0086] The processes after step S130 in the above-described process are performed when the air conditioner 10 is first powered on after being shipped from the factory and installed at the installation site, or when the outdoor unit control board 140 is first powered on after initialization.

[0087] According to the air-conditioning device 10 of the above-mentioned embodiment 1, an air-conditioning device is realized, which performs air conditioning in the air-conditioning target area, and the air-conditioning device comprises: a control unit, which has multiple control function units for performing air conditioning; and a function setting unit, which determines the control function unit that is validated for actual use in the control of air conditioning among the multiple control function units based on information representing the model of the air-conditioning device, that is, model information, and the control unit validates the following control function units, namely: the control function units that are determined to be validated in the function setting unit.

[0088] As described above, the air conditioner 10 according to Embodiment 1 pre-stores model information and a function setting list in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the outdoor unit 13. The function setting unit 139 has the functions of determining which control function unit is enabled among the multiple control function units of the outdoor unit control unit 138 based on the model information and the function setting list, and activating the control function unit determined to be enabled. When the air conditioner 10 is powered on for the first time after installation, the function setting unit 139 reads the model information and the function setting list stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 and, based on the model information and the function setting list, determines which control function unit is enabled among the multiple control function units of the outdoor unit control unit 138. The function setting unit 139 then specifies the enabled control function unit to the outdoor unit control unit 138 and activates the control function unit determined to be enabled in the outdoor unit control unit 138.

[0089] Thus, the air conditioner 10 does not require any function setting components for setting the control functions of the outdoor unit control unit 138 in accordance with the model of the air conditioner 10 to be mounted on the outdoor unit control board 140. This allows for easy setting of control functions in accordance with the model of the air conditioner 10 using a simple structure. The outdoor unit storage unit 133 is generally a component mounted on the outdoor unit control board 140 to store control information, and the number of components mounted on the outdoor unit control board 140 does not increase.

[0090] Moreover, the air-conditioning device 10 does not require components for function setting, so the number of components installed on the outdoor unit control substrate 140 is small, which can prevent the outdoor unit control substrate 140 from becoming enlarged and reduce the substrate size of the outdoor unit control substrate 140. In addition, the risk of failure of the outdoor unit control substrate 140 can be reduced, and the miniaturization and quality stabilization of the outdoor unit control substrate 140 can be achieved.

[0091] Furthermore, the outdoor unit 13 of the air conditioner 10 can use the outdoor unit control substrate 140 as a common outdoor unit for multiple different models of outdoor units, eliminating the need to manufacture multiple types of outdoor units. This can reduce the cost of multiple models of air conditioners. In other words, the air conditioner 10 can share the outdoor unit control substrate 140 among multiple different models of outdoor units, thereby reducing the cost of multiple models of air conditioners.

[0092] At the air conditioner 10 manufacturing plant, the installation of function setting components on the outdoor unit control board 140 and the configuration of these components are no longer necessary, making the air conditioner 10 easier to manufacture. Furthermore, during installation of the air conditioner 10, the installer does not need to configure or verify the function setting components, making installation of the air conditioner 10 easier. Furthermore, users can enjoy the high-quality, compact air conditioner 10, which offers consistent quality, without the risk of malfunctions caused by misalignment of the function setting components.

[0093] Furthermore, while the above description describes a case where, among the multiple control function units included in the outdoor unit control unit 138 of the outdoor unit control substrate 140 of the outdoor unit 13, the control function units actually used for controlling the air conditioning of the air conditioning target area in the outdoor unit 13 are enabled, the above-described processing can also be applied to the indoor unit control substrate 119 of the indoor unit 11. Specifically, by applying the above-described processing to the indoor unit control substrate 119 of the indoor unit 11, it is possible to enable, among the multiple control function units included in the indoor unit control unit 118, the control function units actually used for controlling the air conditioning of the air conditioning target area in the indoor unit 11.

[0094] In this case, the indoor unit control substrate 119 of the indoor unit 11 has the same function as the function related to the process of activating the above-mentioned control function unit in the outdoor unit control substrate 140 .

[0095] Specifically, the indoor unit storage unit 113 stores separate control programs corresponding to the operation control of multiple different models of indoor units, so that the indoor unit control board 119, including the indoor unit control unit 118, can be used in common across multiple different models of indoor units. Furthermore, the indoor unit storage unit 113 of the indoor unit 11 stores model information and a function setting table for the indoor unit corresponding to the above-mentioned function setting table.

[0096] The indoor unit control unit 118 also includes multiple control functions for controlling the operation of the air conditioner 10, namely, multiple control functional units for controlling the operation of the air conditioner 10. Furthermore, the indoor unit control unit 118 includes multiple independent control functional units corresponding to the operation control of multiple different models of indoor units. This allows the indoor unit control unit 118 to control the operation of multiple different models of indoor units. In other words, the indoor unit control unit 118 can be said to be a control group that aggregates the multiple control functional units for controlling the operation of the air conditioner 10.

[0097] The indoor unit control board 119 also includes an indoor unit function setting unit corresponding to the aforementioned function setting unit 139. The indoor unit function setting unit has the functions of determining which control function unit to enable among the plurality of control function units included in the indoor unit control unit 118 based on the model information and the indoor unit function setting list, and enabling the control function unit determined to be enabled.

[0098] When the air conditioner 10 is powered on for the first time after installation, the indoor unit function setting unit reads the model information and the indoor unit function setting list stored in the indoor unit storage unit 113. Based on the model information and the indoor unit function setting list, the indoor unit function setting unit determines which control function unit is to be enabled among the plurality of control function units included in the indoor unit control unit 118. The indoor unit function setting unit then specifies the enabled control function unit to the indoor unit control unit 118 and effectively sets the control function unit determined to be enabled in the indoor unit control unit 118.

[0099] Thus, the air conditioner 10 can easily set the control functions corresponding to the model of the air conditioner 10 with a simple structure, without installing a function setting component for setting the control functions of the indoor unit control unit 118 corresponding to the model of the air conditioner 10 on the indoor unit control substrate 119. Here, the indoor unit storage unit 113 is generally a component installed on the indoor unit control substrate 119 to store control information, and the number of components installed on the indoor unit control substrate 119 does not increase.

[0100] Furthermore, regarding the aforementioned activation process of the control function units of the outdoor unit control unit 138 and the activation process of the control function units of the indoor unit control unit 118, the process of determining which control function units are activated may be centrally performed on the outdoor unit control substrate 140 of the outdoor unit 13 or the indoor unit control substrate 119 of the indoor unit 11. Specifically, regarding the activation process of the control function units of the outdoor unit control unit 138 and the activation process of the control function units of the indoor unit control unit 118, the process of determining which control function units are activated may be centrally performed on the function setting unit 139 or the function setting unit for the indoor unit.

[0101] Regarding the activation process of the control function units of the outdoor unit control unit 138 and the activation process of the control function units of the indoor unit control unit 118, when the function setting unit 139 performs the process of determining the control function units to be activated, the outdoor unit control unit 138, based on the activation information regarding the outdoor unit control unit 138 transmitted from the function setting unit 139, effectively sets the control function units indicated by the activation information. Furthermore, when the function setting unit 139 performs the process of determining the control function units to be activated regarding the control function units of the outdoor unit control unit 138 and the activation process of the control function units of the indoor unit control unit 118, the indoor unit control unit 118, based on the activation information regarding the indoor unit control unit 118 transmitted from the function setting unit 139, effectively sets the control function units indicated by the activation information.

[0102] Furthermore, when the indoor unit function setting unit performs the process of activating the control function units of the outdoor unit control unit 138 and the process of determining the activated control function units, the outdoor unit control unit 138, based on the activation information of the outdoor unit control unit 138 transmitted from the indoor unit function setting unit, activates the control function units indicated by the activation information. Furthermore, when the indoor unit function setting unit performs the process of activating the control function units of the outdoor unit control unit 138 and the process of determining the activated control function units, the indoor unit control unit 118, based on the activation information of the indoor unit control unit 118 transmitted from the indoor unit function setting unit, activates the control function units indicated by the activation information.

[0103] As described above, according to the air conditioning apparatus 10 of Embodiment 1, it is possible to obtain the air conditioning apparatus 10 that achieves reduced failures, downsizing, and stable quality with a simple structure, and that can cope with control of a plurality of different models.

[0104] Implementation method 2.

[0105] In the second embodiment, regarding other functions of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 , a case will be described in which the function setting unit 139 specifies control constants used for control within the control function unit enabled by the outdoor unit control unit 138 . Figure 8 This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the outdoor unit 13 of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 in Embodiment 2.

[0106] exist Figure 8In the figure, the control constants used in the A control unit 138A are illustrated, focusing on the A control unit 138A among the multiple functional control units included in the outdoor unit control unit 138. Although not shown in the figure, other functional control units such as the B control unit 138B and the C control unit 138C also have control constants used in each functional control unit.

[0107] In Embodiment 2, the air-conditioning apparatus 10 stores the control constant list in the outdoor unit storage unit 133. That is, the outdoor unit storage unit 133 functions as a storage unit that stores the control constant list.

[0108] The control constant list includes information relating the information included in the model information to the control constants used for control within the enabled control function section of the outdoor unit control section 138. In other words, the function setting list can be said to be information representing the correspondence relationship between the information included in the model information and the control constants used for control within the enabled control function section of the outdoor unit control section 138.

[0109] Therefore, the outdoor unit storage unit 133 functions as a storage unit for storing a control constant list. In other words, the outdoor unit storage unit 133 functions as a storage unit for storing correspondence information of control constants.

[0110] For example, the control constant list stores control constants α, β, and γ used in the A control unit performing A control, corresponding to inverter control type A. Furthermore, the control constant list stores control constants (not shown), such as control constant δ, control constant ε, and control constant ζ, used in the B control unit performing B control, corresponding to inverter control type B. Similarly, the control constant list stores control constants used in each control function unit, from the C control unit to the K control unit.

[0111] In Embodiment 2, as described in Embodiment 1, the function setting unit 139 compares the information related to the air conditioner 10 obtained from the model name information with the function setting list to determine which control function unit is enabled among the multiple control function units included in the outdoor unit control unit 138. The function setting unit 139 then compares the information related to the air conditioner 10 obtained from the model information with the control constant list to determine the control constants used for control within the control function unit determined to be enabled. The function setting unit 139 transmits activation information, which is information about the control function unit determined to be enabled, and control constant information, which is information about the control constants used for control within the control function unit determined to be enabled, to the outdoor unit control unit 138.

[0112] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the air conditioning apparatus 10 can transmit control constants not stored in the control constant list from the outdoor unit communication unit 134 to the function setting unit 139 via the outdoor unit external input / output unit 137. The operator who installs the air conditioning apparatus 10 transmits the control constants not stored in the control constant list for each control function unit from a communication device such as a mobile terminal to the function setting unit 139. The function setting unit 139 transmits the control constants not stored in the control constant list, which were transmitted from the communication device such as a mobile terminal to the function setting unit 139, to the outdoor unit control unit 138 as constant change instruction information indicating that the control constants stored in the control constant list should be changed to the control constants used for control in the control function unit determined to be enabled.

[0113] Thus, the air conditioning apparatus 10 can set control constants not stored in the control constant table in the outdoor unit control unit 138, and can perform control in each control function unit using control constants not stored in the control constant table.

[0114] Next, according to Figure 9 The flowchart shown explains the operation of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 in the second embodiment. Figure 9 This is a flowchart showing a process related to activation of the control function unit and setting of control constants of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 in Embodiment 2.

[0115] First, steps S110 and S120 are performed similarly to the case of Embodiment 1. Then, the process proceeds to step S210.

[0116] In step S210, the control constant list is stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133. Specifically, when the air conditioner 10 is manufactured in a factory, the control constant list is stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the outdoor unit 13 of the air conditioner 10.

[0117] The air conditioner 10 is then shipped from the factory with the model information, function setting list, and control constant list stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 and installed at a user's home or office. With the model information, function setting list, and control constant list stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133, the air conditioner 10 is installed at the installation location and is ready for use. The processes of steps S110, S120, and S210 are not limited. Steps S130 to S180 are then performed, and the process proceeds to step S220.

[0118] In step S220, the control constant list is read from the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the outdoor unit 13. Specifically, the function setting unit 139 reads and acquires the control constant list stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S230.

[0119] In step S230, the control constants are determined based on the control constant list. Specifically, the function setting unit 139 compares the information related to the air conditioner 10 obtained from the model information in step S150 with the control constant list obtained in step S220 to determine the control constants used for control in the multiple control function units of the outdoor unit control unit 138 that are enabled, that is, the control constants used for control in the control function units determined to be enabled in step S170. The function setting unit 139 determines the control constant corresponding to the information related to the air conditioner 10 included in the model information in the control constant list as the control constant used for control in the corresponding enabled control function unit related to the air conditioner 10. The control constant determination is performed for each control function unit whose information related to the air conditioner 10 obtained from the model information in step S150 is determined to be enabled.

[0120] The function setting unit 139 transmits control constant information, which is information on the control constants determined as the control constants used for control in the activated control function unit, to the outdoor unit control unit 138. The outdoor unit control unit 138 receives the control constant information transmitted from the function setting unit 139. Then, the process proceeds to step S240.

[0121] In step S240, control constants are set. Specifically, the outdoor unit control unit 138 sets the control constants determined in step S230 to be used for control in the activated control function unit in the activated control function unit. Control constants are set for each control function unit. Setting the control constants determined to be used for control in the activated control function unit in the activated control function unit means that the control constants are applied to the control program for implementing the function of the control function unit indicated by the activation information. The process then proceeds to step S250.

[0122] In step S250, it is determined whether the constant change instruction information is received. Specifically, the outdoor unit control unit 138 determines whether the constant change instruction information is received.

[0123] The constant change instruction information is instruction information that instructs setting a control constant not stored in the control constant list as a control constant used for control within the control function unit determined to be enabled. That is, the constant change instruction information is instruction information that instructs setting a control constant not stored in the control constant list as a control constant used for control within the enabled control function unit, rather than the control constant determined in step S230. The constant change instruction information includes information on the command value of the control constant set in the control function unit as the control constant used for control within the enabled control function unit, which is not stored in the control constant list. When the outdoor unit control unit 138 receives the constant change instruction information from a communication device such as a mobile terminal, which is an external device to the outdoor unit 13, the outdoor unit control unit 138 stores the constant change instruction information in the outdoor unit storage unit 133.

[0124] The outdoor unit control unit 138 determines that the constant change instruction information has been received if the outdoor unit storage unit 133 stores the constant change instruction information. The outdoor unit control unit 138 determines that the constant change instruction information has not been received if the outdoor unit storage unit 133 does not store the constant change instruction information.

[0125] If it is determined that the constant change instruction information has not been received, the result is NO in step S250, and the series of processing for activating the control function unit and setting the control constant ends. If it is determined that the constant change instruction information has been received, the result is YES in step S250, and the process proceeds to step S260.

[0126] In step S260, the control constants are set to command values. Specifically, the outdoor unit control unit 138 sets the command values ​​of the control constants included in the constant change command information to the control constants used for control in the activated control function unit. In other words, the outdoor unit control unit 138 changes the control constants set in step S240 to the command values ​​of the control constants included in the constant change command information, thereby changing the control constant settings. This control constant setting change is performed for each activated control function unit. The above processing completes the series of control function unit activation and control constant setting processes.

[0127] Thereafter, in the air conditioning apparatus 10, the indoor unit control unit 118 and the outdoor unit control unit 138 perform air conditioning control of the air conditioning apparatus 10 in accordance with the control command transmitted from the remote controller 15. Here, the outdoor unit control unit 138 controls the operation of the air conditioning apparatus 10 in accordance with the control command transmitted from the remote controller 15, using the control constants set in step S240 or step S260 and controlling the control function unit enabled in step S180.

[0128] For example, in the case of air conditioners with different horsepower models within the same product series, cooling control is the same for each series. However, if the compressor frequency varies, the horsepower can be read from the model number and the appropriate operating frequency can be specified. In this case, horsepower corresponds to the capacity band.

[0129] In addition, when it is desired to use a control constant other than the control constants maintained in the control constant list for the air-conditioning device 10, the control constant is specified from the outdoor unit communication unit 134 to the outdoor unit control unit 138 via the outdoor unit external input and output unit 137, thereby adjusting the air-conditioning control function of the air-conditioning device 10 according to the customer's requirements.

[0130] As described above, in Embodiment 2, the air conditioner 10 pre-stores the model information, the function setting list, and the control constant list in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the outdoor unit 13. The function setting unit 139 has the following functions: determining, based on the model information and the function setting list, which control function unit is to be enabled among the plurality of control function units included in the outdoor unit control unit 138; enabling the control function unit determined to be enabled; determining, based on the model information and the control constant list, the control constants used for control in the enabled control function unit; and setting the control constants determined based on the model information and the control constant list in the enabled control function unit.

[0131] When the air conditioner 10 is powered on for the first time after installation, the function setting unit 139 reads the model information and function setting list stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 and, based on the model information and function setting list, determines which control function unit is enabled among the plurality of control function units included in the outdoor unit control unit 138. The function setting unit 139 then specifies the enabled control function unit to the outdoor unit control unit 138 and effectively sets the control function unit determined to be enabled in the outdoor unit control unit 138.

[0132] Furthermore, when the air conditioner 10 is powered on for the first time after installation, the function setting unit 139 reads the control constant list stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 and determines the control constants used for control in the enabled control function unit based on the model information and the control constant list. The function setting unit 139 then sets the determined control constants in the enabled control function unit.

[0133] Thus, the air conditioner 10 can automatically set the control constants used for control in the control function unit enabled according to the model of the air conditioner 10, making it easy to set the control constants.

[0134] The installation operator does not need to set the control constants when installing the air-conditioning apparatus 10 , and the installation work of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 becomes easy.

[0135] Furthermore, the air conditioner 10 can set more detailed air conditioning control functions by specifying control constants to the outdoor unit control unit 138 from a communication device such as a mobile terminal via the outdoor unit communication unit 134 and the outdoor unit external input / output unit 137 , thereby improving the quality of the air conditioner 10 .

[0136] Furthermore, while the above description describes a case where control constants used for control in the outdoor unit control unit 138 of the outdoor unit control substrate 140 of the outdoor unit 13, which is enabled in accordance with the model of the air conditioner 10, are automatically set, the above-described processing can also be applied to the indoor unit control substrate 119 of the indoor unit 11. Specifically, by applying the above-described processing to the indoor unit control substrate 119 of the indoor unit 11, it is possible to automatically set control constants used for control in the indoor unit control unit 118, which is enabled in accordance with the model of the air conditioner 10, as described in the first embodiment.

[0137] In this case, the indoor unit control substrate 119 of the indoor unit 11 has the same function as the function related to the process of activating the aforementioned control function unit in the outdoor unit control substrate 140. Furthermore, the indoor unit control substrate 119 of the indoor unit 11 has the same function as the function related to the process of automatically setting control constants used for control in the control function unit activated in accordance with the model of the air conditioner 10 in the outdoor unit control substrate 140.

[0138] Specifically, the indoor unit storage unit 113 stores separate control programs corresponding to the operation control of multiple different models of indoor units, so that the indoor unit control board 119, including the indoor unit control unit 118, can be used in common across multiple different models of indoor units. Furthermore, the indoor unit storage unit 113 of the indoor unit 11 stores model information, a function setting table for the indoor unit corresponding to the aforementioned function setting table, and a control constant table for the indoor unit corresponding to the aforementioned control constant table.

[0139] The indoor unit control unit 118 also includes multiple control functions for controlling the operation of the air conditioner 10, namely, multiple control functional units for controlling the operation of the air conditioner 10. Furthermore, the indoor unit control unit 118 includes multiple independent control functional units corresponding to the operation control of multiple different models of indoor units. This allows the indoor unit control unit 118 to control the operation of multiple different models of indoor units. In other words, the indoor unit control unit 118 can be said to be a control group that aggregates the multiple control functional units for controlling the operation of the air conditioner 10.

[0140] In addition, the function setting unit for the indoor unit has: a function of determining a control function unit that is enabled among a plurality of control function units possessed by the indoor unit control unit 118 based on the model information and the function setting list for the indoor unit; a function of enabling a control function unit determined to be enabled; a function of determining a control constant used for control in the enabled control function unit based on the model information and the control constant list for the indoor unit; and a function of setting the control constant determined based on the model information and the control constant list for the indoor unit to the enabled control function unit.

[0141] When the air conditioner 10 is powered on for the first time after installation, the indoor unit function setting unit reads the model information and the indoor unit function setting list stored in the indoor unit storage unit 113. Based on the model information and the indoor unit function setting list, the indoor unit function setting unit determines which control function unit is to be enabled among the plurality of control function units included in the indoor unit control unit 118. The indoor unit function setting unit then specifies the enabled control function unit to the indoor unit control unit 118 and effectively sets the control function unit determined to be enabled in the indoor unit control unit 118.

[0142] Furthermore, when the air conditioner 10 is powered on for the first time after installation, the indoor unit function setting unit reads the indoor unit control constant list stored in the indoor unit storage unit 113 and determines the control constants used for control in the enabled control function unit based on the model information and the indoor unit control constant list. The indoor unit function setting unit then sets the determined control constants in the enabled control function unit.

[0143] Thus, the air conditioner 10 can automatically set the control constants used for control in the control function unit enabled according to the model of the air conditioner 10, making it easy to set the control constants.

[0144] Furthermore, as described in the first embodiment, the process of activating the control function units of the outdoor unit control unit 138 and the process of activating the control function units of the indoor unit control unit 118 may be centralized in the outdoor unit control board 140 of the outdoor unit 13 or the indoor unit control board 119 of the indoor unit 11 to determine which control function units are activated. In other words, the process of activating the control function units of the outdoor unit control unit 138 and the process of activating the control function units of the indoor unit control unit 118 may be centralized in the function setting unit 139 or the function setting unit for the indoor unit.

[0145] Furthermore, regarding the process of setting the control constants of the activated control function units in the outdoor unit control unit 138 and the process of setting the control constants of the activated control function units in the indoor unit control unit 118, the process of determining the control constants may be centrally performed in the outdoor unit control board 140 of the outdoor unit 13 or the indoor unit control board 119 of the indoor unit 11. In other words, regarding the process of setting the control constants of the activated control function units in the outdoor unit control unit 138 and the process of setting the control constants of the activated control function units in the indoor unit control unit 118, the process of determining the control constants may be centrally performed in the function setting unit 139 or the function setting unit for the indoor unit.

[0146] When the function setting unit 139 performs control constant determination processing for setting the control constants of the activated control function unit in the outdoor unit control unit 138 and for setting the control constants of the activated control function unit in the indoor unit control unit 118, the outdoor unit control unit 138 sets the control constants indicated by the constant change instruction information transmitted from the function setting unit 139 to the outdoor unit control unit 138. Furthermore, when the function setting unit 139 performs control constant determination processing for setting the control constants of the activated control function unit in the outdoor unit control unit 138 and for setting the control constants of the activated control function unit in the indoor unit control unit 118, the indoor unit control unit 118 sets the control constants indicated by the constant change instruction information transmitted from the function setting unit 139 to the indoor unit control unit 118.

[0147] Furthermore, when the indoor unit function setting unit performs control constant determination processing for setting the control constants of the activated control function unit in the outdoor unit control unit 138 and for setting the control constants of the activated control function unit in the indoor unit control unit 118, the outdoor unit control unit 138 sets the control constants indicated by the constant change instruction information transmitted from the indoor unit function setting unit. Furthermore, when the indoor unit function setting unit performs control constant determination processing for setting the control constants of the activated control function unit in the outdoor unit control unit 138 and for setting the control constants of the activated control function unit in the indoor unit control unit 118, the indoor unit control unit 118 sets the control constants indicated by the constant change instruction information transmitted from the indoor unit function setting unit.

[0148] Implementation method 3.

[0149] In the third embodiment, a case will be described where the air-conditioning apparatus 10 receives the designation information of the activated control function unit and the control constant from the server via the general-purpose network. Figure 10 This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of an air conditioning system 200 according to Embodiment 3. The air conditioning system 200 according to Embodiment 3 includes an air conditioning apparatus 10 a , an air conditioning apparatus 10 b , a network server 300 , a remote monitoring apparatus 401 , a remote monitoring apparatus 402 , and a central controller 500 .

[0150] In addition, hereinafter, when the air-conditioning apparatus 10 a and the air-conditioning apparatus 10 b are not distinguished from each other, they may be collectively referred to as the air-conditioning apparatus 10 .

[0151] The various components of the air conditioning system 200 described above can exchange information with each other. Communication between the various components of the air conditioning system 200 can be wireless or wired. Furthermore, communication between the various components of the air conditioning system 200 can also be via a network (not shown). The structure of the air conditioning device 10 of the air conditioning system 200 is not limited; however, similar to the aforementioned Embodiments 1 and 2, it includes an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, and a remote controller.

[0152] The air conditioning apparatus 10a includes an outdoor unit 13a, two indoor units 11, and two remote controllers 15. Specifically, in the air conditioning apparatus 10a, the two indoor units 11 are connected to the outdoor unit 13a, and a dedicated remote controller 15 is provided for each indoor unit 11. The air conditioning apparatus 10a basically has the same configuration and functions as the air conditioning apparatus 10 described in Embodiments 1 and 2. However, the air conditioning apparatus 10a includes an outdoor unit 13a in place of the outdoor unit 13.

[0153] In addition to the functions of the outdoor unit 13 described in Embodiments 1 and 2, the outdoor unit 13a can receive and store or update a function setting list and a control constant list from the network server 300. Based on the function setting list and the control constant list received and stored from the network server 300, the outdoor unit 13a can determine the control function unit enabled based on the function setting list and the control constant based on the control constant list in the function setting unit 139, similarly to Embodiments 1 and 2.

[0154] The air conditioning apparatus 10b includes an outdoor unit 13a, an indoor unit 11, and a remote controller 15. Specifically, in the air conditioning apparatus 10b, a single indoor unit 11 is connected to the outdoor unit 13a, and a dedicated remote controller 15 is provided for the indoor unit 11. The air conditioning apparatus 10b has the same structure and functions as the air conditioning apparatus 10a, except that the number of indoor units 11 and remote controller 15 is reduced to one. In other words, the air conditioning apparatus 10b also basically has the structure and functions of the air conditioning apparatus 10 described in Embodiments 1 and 2 above. Furthermore, the air conditioning apparatus 10b also includes an outdoor unit 13a in place of the outdoor unit 13.

[0155] The network server 300 is capable of communicating with the air conditioner 10 and functions as a database storing operating information and system information of the air conditioner 10. Furthermore, as described in Embodiments 1 and 2, it also stores information on the function setting list and the control constant list and transmits this information to the air conditioner 10. For example, a designer of the manufacturer of the air conditioner 10 can access the network server 300 via a network (not shown). This allows the manufacturer's designer to check various information, such as operating information and system information, for multiple air conditioners 10 installed nationwide without having to visit the site where the air conditioner 10 is installed. A cloud server or a physical server can be used for the network server 300.

[0156] Figure 11 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a web server 300 according to Embodiment 3. The web server 300 includes a server communication unit 301, a server storage unit 302, and a server control unit 303. The components of the web server 300 described above can exchange information with each other.

[0157] The server communication unit 301 can communicate with the remote monitoring device 401 and the monitoring communication unit 414 (described later) of the remote monitoring device 402. The remote monitoring device 401 and the monitoring communication unit 414 of the remote monitoring device 402 can communicate with the server communication unit 301 via a network, for example. The server communication unit 301 transmits information on the function setting list and the control constant list to the air conditioner 10.

[0158] The server storage unit 302 has a function as a database for storing operating information of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 and system information of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 , and a function for storing a function setting list and a control constant list.

[0159] Therefore, the server storage unit 302 functions as a storage unit for storing correspondence information of control function units. Furthermore, the server storage unit 302 functions as a storage unit for storing correspondence information of control constants. Furthermore, the server storage unit 302 stores various information used for controlling the network server 300.

[0160] The server control unit 303 controls the overall processing of the network server 300. Furthermore, the server control unit 303 controls the acquisition of operating information of the air conditioner 10 from the air conditioner 10 and the storage of the information in the server storage unit 302. Furthermore, the server control unit 303 controls the transmission of information such as the function setting list and the control constant list stored in the server storage unit 302 to the air conditioner 10 via the network.

[0161] Specifically, the server control unit 303 transmits the function setting list and control constant list information to the remote monitoring device 401 and the remote monitoring device 402 via the server communication unit 301. The remote monitoring device 401 receives the function setting list and control constant list information transmitted from the network server 300 and transmits the function setting list and control constant list information to the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioning device 10a via the central controller 500. The remote monitoring device 402 receives the function setting list and control constant list information transmitted from the network server 300 and transmits the function setting list and control constant list information to the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioning device 10b.

[0162] Figure 12This is a block diagram showing the structure of a remote monitoring device 401 according to Embodiment 3. The remote monitoring device 401 is located at a monitoring center remote from the air conditioning unit 10a and is connected to the central controller 500 and the network server 300, enabling information exchange with the central controller 500 and the network server 300. By being connected to the central controller 500, the remote monitoring device 401 can monitor the air conditioning unit 10a via the central controller 500 and control the air conditioning unit 10a from the remote monitoring device 401 through remote operation via the central controller 500. Furthermore, the remote monitoring device 401 receives information about a function setting list and a control constant list from the network server 300 and controls the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioning unit 10a by transmitting this information to the outdoor unit 13a via the central controller 500.

[0163] The remote monitoring device 401 includes a monitoring operation unit 411 , a monitoring display unit 412 , a monitoring storage unit 413 , a monitoring communication unit 414 , and a monitoring control unit 415 .

[0164] The monitoring operation unit 411 receives setting operations related to monitoring and controlling the air conditioning apparatus 10. Upon receiving an operation from a monitoring operator, the monitoring operation unit 411 outputs information corresponding to the monitoring operator's operation to the monitoring control unit 415 as an operation signal.

[0165] The monitoring display unit 412 is a display unit that displays various information, displays information and status required for air conditioning of the air conditioning unit 10 such as the set temperature and operation mode of the air conditioning unit 10, and switches and displays screens corresponding to operations in the monitoring operation unit 411.

[0166] The monitoring storage unit 413 stores various information used for controlling the air-conditioning apparatus 10 , and temporarily or long-term stores setting contents and image data related to the setting contents to be displayed on the monitoring display unit 412 .

[0167] The monitoring communication unit 414 enables bidirectional communication of information between the server communication unit 301 of the network server 300 and the controller communication unit 502 of the central controller 500. Furthermore, the communication between the server communication unit 301 and the controller communication unit 502 and the monitoring communication unit 414 may be wireless or wired.

[0168] The monitoring control unit 415 controls the entire remote monitoring device 401. Based on the operation signal output from the monitoring operation unit 411, the monitoring control unit 415 controls the central controller 500. The monitoring control unit 415 receives information about the function setting list and the control constant list from the network server 300 and stores the information in the monitoring storage unit 413. Furthermore, the monitoring control unit 415 controls the transmission of the information about the function setting list and the control constant list to the air conditioning unit 10.

[0169] Remote monitoring device 402 is located at a monitoring center remote from air conditioning unit 10b and is connected to network server 300 and air conditioning unit 10b, enabling information exchange between the network server 300 and the air conditioning unit 10b. Remote monitoring device 402 is connected to air conditioning unit 10b to monitor the air conditioning unit 10b and to control the air conditioning unit 10b remotely.

[0170] The remote monitoring device 402 has the same structure and functions as the remote monitoring device 401, except that the target of monitoring and control is the air conditioning device 10b instead of the air conditioning device 10a. Furthermore, the remote monitoring device 402 also functions as the central controller 500. The remote monitoring device 402 receives information on the function setting list and the control constant list from the network server 300 and controls the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioning device 10b by transmitting the information on the function setting list and the control constant list.

[0171] Figure 13 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the central controller 500 in Embodiment 3. The central controller 500 serves as an interface that connects the remote monitoring device 401 and the network server 300 to the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioning apparatus 10a. It can operate and stop the air conditioning apparatus 10a and set operating conditions such as the operating mode and set temperature for the air conditioning apparatus 10a. The central controller 500 is connected to the remote monitoring device 401 and the outdoor unit 13 of the air conditioning apparatus 10a, enabling information transmission and reception between the remote monitoring device 401 and the outdoor unit 13 of the air conditioning apparatus 10a.

[0172] The central controller 500 can monitor the air conditioning unit 10 based on control commands transmitted from the remote monitoring device 401, and can also control the air conditioning unit 10a based on control commands transmitted from the remote monitoring device 401. Furthermore, the central controller 500 obtains air conditioning unit operating information, such as the status of the air conditioning unit 10a and the status of the operating environment of the air conditioning unit 10a, from the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioning unit 10a, and transmits the obtained information to the remote monitoring device 401.

[0173] The central controller 500 includes a controller storage unit 501 , a controller communication unit 502 , and a controller control unit 503 .

[0174] The controller storage unit 501 stores various information used for monitoring and controlling the air-conditioning apparatus 10 a .

[0175] The controller communication unit 502 is capable of bidirectionally communicating information with the monitoring communication unit 414 of the remote monitoring device 401 and the outdoor unit communication unit 134 of the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioning unit 10a. Furthermore, the communication between the monitoring communication unit 414 and the outdoor unit communication unit 134 and the controller communication unit 502 may be wireless or wired.

[0176] The controller control unit 503 controls the entire central controller 500. Based on control commands transmitted from the remote monitoring device 401, the controller control unit 503 monitors and controls the air conditioning unit 10a. The controller control unit 503 receives information about the function setting list and control constant list from the remote monitoring device 401 and stores the information in the controller storage unit 501. Furthermore, the controller control unit 503 transmits the information about the function setting list and control constant list to the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioning unit 10a.

[0177] Next, according to Figure 14 The flowchart shown explains the operation of the air-conditioning system 200 according to the third embodiment. Figure 14 This is a flowchart showing a process related to activation of the control function unit of the air-conditioning system 200 according to the third embodiment.

[0178] In step S110, the model information is stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the outdoor unit 13 of the air conditioner 10. Specifically, when the air conditioner 10 is manufactured in a factory, the model information is stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the air conditioner 10. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S310.

[0179] Here, in the air conditioning system 200, unlike in Embodiments 1 and 2 described above, the function setting list and control constant list are not stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the air conditioning unit 10 when the air conditioning unit 10 is manufactured in the factory. Specifically, the air conditioning unit 10 is shipped from the factory with the model information stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 and the function setting list and control constant list not stored therein, and is then installed at a user's home or office. With the model information stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 and the function setting list and control constant list not stored therein, the air conditioning unit 10 is installed at the installation location and becomes operational. After installation, the air conditioning unit 10 is connected to the network server 300.

[0180] In step S310 , the function setting list and the control constant list are stored in the server storage unit 302 of the network server 300 . Specifically, an operator such as a monitoring operator stores information of the function setting list and the control constant list in the server storage unit 302 of the network server 300 .

[0181] The method for inputting the function setting list and control constant list information into network server 300 is not limited. For example, the operator can transmit the function setting list and control constant list information to network server 300 from a device external to network server 300, such as a terminal device or a storage medium, via communication. Server control unit 303 receives the function setting list and control constant list information transmitted from the device external to network server 300 and stores the function setting list and control constant list information in server storage unit 302. The process then proceeds to step S320.

[0182] In step S320, the air conditioner 10 receives the function setting list and the control constant list from the network server 300. Specifically, the outdoor unit control unit 138 of the outdoor unit 13 of the air conditioner 10 receives the function setting list and the control constant list information transmitted from the network server 300.

[0183] The server control unit 303 of the network server 300 transmits the function setting list and control constant list information to the air conditioner 10. The outdoor unit control unit 138 of the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioner 10a receives the function setting list and control constant list information transmitted from the network server 300 via the remote monitoring device 401 and the central controller 500. The outdoor unit control unit 138 of the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioner 10b receives the function setting list and control constant list information transmitted from the network server 300 via the remote monitoring device 402. The process then proceeds to step S330.

[0184] In step S330, in the air conditioning apparatus 10, the function setting list and the control constant list are stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioning apparatus 10. Specifically, the outdoor unit control unit 138 of the air conditioning apparatus 10 stores the information of the function setting list and the control constant list received from the network server 300 in step S320 in the outdoor unit storage unit 133. Thus, in the air conditioning apparatus 10, during the manufacturing of the air conditioning apparatus 10 in the factory, the information of the function setting list and the control constant list can be stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 instead of being stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133.

[0185] Specifically, the outdoor unit control unit 138 obtains a function setting list as correspondence information of the control function units from the network server 300, which is a device external to the air conditioner 10, via a general-purpose network, and stores the list in the outdoor unit storage unit 133, which is a storage unit for storing correspondence information of the control function units. Furthermore, the outdoor unit control unit 138 obtains a control constant list as correspondence information of the control constants from the network server 300, which is a device external to the air conditioner 10, via a general-purpose network, and stores the list in the outdoor unit storage unit 133, which is a storage unit for storing correspondence information of the control constants.

[0186] Thereafter, steps S130 to S180 and steps S220 to S240 are performed in the same manner as in the above-described first and second embodiments.

[0187] As described above, in the air conditioning system 200, the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioning apparatus 10 can store the function setting list and the control constant list received from the network server 300. Therefore, in the air conditioning system 200, the air conditioning apparatus 10 can be manufactured easily.

[0188] Furthermore, in the air conditioning system 200, a function setting list and a control constant list can be set in the outdoor unit 13a from the network server 300 via a general-purpose network. For example, after the air conditioning unit 10 is manufactured, a function setting list and a control constant list suitable for conditions such as the region where the air conditioning unit 10 is installed can be set in the air conditioning unit 10. This allows the air conditioning system 200 to perform higher-quality operation control of the air conditioning unit 10 that is suitable for conditions such as the region where the air conditioning unit 10 is installed.

[0189] Furthermore, although the above description has been made of the case where the function setting list and the control constant list are not stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the air conditioner 10 when the air conditioner 10 is manufactured in the factory, the function setting list and the control constant list may be stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 when the air conditioner 10 is manufactured in the factory. In this case, first, the second embodiment is performed. Figure 9 The process shown in the flowchart is performed using the air conditioner 10. Figure 14 The processing of steps S310 to S240 shown in the flowchart.

[0190] In this case, in step S310, information on a function setting list having contents different from the information on the function setting list stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the outdoor unit 13 of the air conditioner 10 in step S120 is stored in the server storage unit 302 of the network server 300. Furthermore, in step S310, information on a control constant list having contents different from the information on the control constant list stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 of the outdoor unit 13 of the air conditioner 10 in step S210 is stored in the server storage unit 302 of the network server 300.

[0191] In step S320, in the air conditioning apparatus 10, the outdoor unit control unit 138 of the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioning apparatus 10 receives the function setting list and the control constant list stored in the server storage unit 302 of the network server 300. Specifically, the outdoor unit control unit 138 receives information on the function setting list having contents different from the information on the function setting list stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133, and information on the control constant list having contents different from the information on the control constant list stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133.

[0192] In step S330, the air conditioner 10 stores the function setting list and control constant list received from the network server 300 in the outdoor unit storage unit 133. Specifically, the outdoor unit control unit 138 of the air conditioner 10 stores the function setting list and control constant list received from the network server 300 in step S320 in the outdoor unit storage unit 133.

[0193] Here, the function setting list stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 is updated by the function setting list received from the network server 300. Also, the control constant list stored in the outdoor unit storage unit 133 is updated by the control constant list received from the network server 300.

[0194] Afterwards, perform the above Figure 14 The processing of steps S140 to S240 shown in the flowchart.

[0195] According to the air-conditioning system 200 of the above-mentioned embodiment 3, an air-conditioning system is realized, which includes an air-conditioning device and a server, and the above-mentioned air-conditioning device includes: a control unit, which has multiple control function units for performing air conditioning of the air-conditioned target area; and a function setting unit, which determines the control function unit that is activated for actual use in the control of air conditioning among the multiple control function units based on information representing the model of the air-conditioning device, that is, model information. The above-mentioned server can communicate with the air-conditioning device and has a server storage unit that stores correspondence information of the control function units that represents the correspondence between the model information and the activated control function units. The function setting unit determines the activated control function unit based on the correspondence information between the model information and the control function units.

[0196] As described above, in the air conditioning system 200, the function setting list and the control constant list can be set from the network server 300 via the general-purpose network for the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioning unit 10 that does not store the function setting list and the control constant list when the air conditioning unit 10 is manufactured in the factory. Furthermore, in the air conditioning system 200, the function setting list and the control constant list can be set from the network server 300 via the general-purpose network for the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioning unit 10 that does not store at least one of the function setting list and the control constant list when the air conditioning unit 10 is manufactured in the factory.

[0197] Therefore, the air conditioning system 200 can set at least one of the function setting list and the control constant list in the outdoor unit 13a with different individual contents for each of a plurality of air conditioning units 10 manufactured under the same conditions. This allows, for example, the function setting list and the control constant list suitable for conditions such as the region where the air conditioning unit 10 is installed to be set in the air conditioning unit 10 after the air conditioning unit 10 is manufactured. This allows the air conditioning system 200 to perform higher-quality operational control of the air conditioning unit 10 that is suitable for conditions such as the region where the air conditioning unit 10 is installed.

[0198] Furthermore, in the air conditioning system 200, the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioning apparatus 10 can update its stored function setting list and control constant list using the function setting list and control constant list received from the network server 300. Furthermore, the outdoor unit 13a of the air conditioning apparatus 10 can update at least one of the function setting list and control constant list. Thus, the air conditioning system 200 can increase the flexibility of changing the control of the air conditioning apparatus 10. Alternatively, the updated information may be at least one of the function setting list and control constant list received from the network server 300.

[0199] In the air conditioning system 200, for example, a manufacturer's service personnel can change at least one of the function setting list and the control constant list without visiting the installation location of the air conditioning unit 10. In the air conditioning system 200, the network server 300 can connect to multiple air conditioning units 10 installed throughout the country. This allows the air conditioning system 200 to change the function setting list and the control constant list in each of the multiple air conditioning units 10, allowing for simultaneous manipulation of the function setting list and the control constant list in any of the air conditioning units 10.

[0200] Furthermore, in the air conditioning system 200, if conditions such as the location where the air conditioning device 10 is installed change due to, for example, relocation, and thus the usage environment of the air conditioning device 10 changes, a function setting list and a control constant list more suitable for the new usage conditions of the air conditioning device 10 can be re-set in the air conditioning device 10. Consequently, the air conditioning system 200 can perform higher-quality operation control of the air conditioning device 10 that is suitable for the location where the air conditioning device 10 is installed, thereby stabilizing the quality of the air conditioning device 10 and improving the control availability of the air conditioning device 10.

[0201] Furthermore, the information stored in the network server 300 is not limited to the function setting list and the control constant list. For example, a control program for controlling the air conditioner 10 may also be stored in the server storage unit 302. This allows the server control unit 303 to transmit the control program from the network server 300 to the air conditioner 10.

[0202] For example, if a user of a home or office where an air conditioner 10 is installed requests a control change to improve the quality of the air conditioner 10, a new control program that meets the user's request and improves the quality is stored in the server storage unit 302 of the network server 300. This new control program is then transmitted from the network server 300 to the air conditioner 10 to which the control change is to be applied. The control program here implements the control function. The air conditioner 10 receives and obtains the new control program transmitted from the network server 300 and executes it to implement the new control function. This allows the air conditioning system 200 to meet the user's request for a control change in the air conditioner 10.

[0203] Furthermore, if more detailed control settings are required, the control constant list is reviewed, a new control constant list is stored in the network server 300, and the new control constant list is transmitted from the network server 300 to the air conditioner 10 to which the control is to be changed. This allows for more detailed control settings to be made in the air conditioner 10 to which the control is to be changed.

[0204] That is, in the air conditioning system 200, the server storage unit 302 of the network server 300 can store a program for implementing the control function unit of the air conditioning device 10 and transmit the program to the air conditioning device 10. The air conditioning device 10 can then implement the control function unit by obtaining and executing the program for implementing the control function unit from the network server 300.

[0205] In addition, although the above description shows an example of a structure in which the function setting list and the control constant list are set in the air-conditioning device 10 from the network server 300 via the remote monitoring device 401 and the central controller 500, the method for setting the function setting list and the control constant list from the air-conditioning device 10 is not limited to this.

[0206] As described above, the air-conditioning system 200 according to the third embodiment has the same effects as those of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 according to the first and second embodiments.

[0207] Furthermore, in the air conditioning system 200, the control setting list, control constant list, and control program can be remotely updated in the air conditioning unit 10 via a universal network. Therefore, in the air conditioning system 200, when addressing quality issues with individual air conditioning units 10, the time required for service personnel to visit the location where the air conditioning unit 10 is installed can be eliminated, allowing for more expedited user response.

[0208] Furthermore, in the air conditioning system 200, information such as operating data of the operating air conditioning device 10 can be stored in the network server 300 via the central controller 500. Therefore, in the air conditioning system 200, higher-quality control constants can be determined by analyzing information such as operating data of the air conditioning device 10.

[0209] Furthermore, while the central controller 500 or the remote monitoring device 402 is described above as being connected to the outdoor unit 13a, the central controller 500 or the remote monitoring device 402 may also be connected to the indoor unit 11. Specifically, by applying the above-described processing to the indoor unit control substrate 119 of the indoor unit 11, at least one of a function setting list and a control constant list that were not stored in the indoor unit storage unit 113 of the indoor unit 11 when the air conditioner 10 was manufactured in the factory can be set to the indoor unit storage unit 113 from the network server 300 via a general-purpose network.

[0210] Then, as described in Embodiments 1 and 2, the control function unit is activated in the indoor unit control unit 118, and the control constants used for control in the activated control function unit are automatically set. In this case, the effects described in Embodiment 3 can also be achieved.

[0211] Next, the hardware configurations of the control unit 80 in Embodiments 1, 2, and 3 will be described. The control unit 80 in Embodiments 1, 2, and 3 corresponds to the indoor unit control unit 118 in the indoor unit 11 of the air conditioning apparatus 10, the outdoor unit control unit 138 in the outdoor unit 13 of the air conditioning apparatus 10, the remote control unit 155 in the remote control unit 15 of the air conditioning apparatus 10, the server control unit 303 of the network server 300, the monitoring control unit 415 of the remote monitoring device 401, and the controller control unit 503 of the central controller 500, respectively. The various functions of the control unit 80 in Embodiments 1, 2, and 3 are implemented by a processing circuit. This processing circuit can be dedicated hardware or a processing device that executes a program stored in a storage device.

[0212] In the case where the processing circuit is dedicated hardware, the processing circuit corresponds to a single circuit, a complex circuit, a programmed processor, parallel programmed processors, an application specific integrated circuit, a field programmable gate array, or a combination thereof. Figure 15 This figure shows a configuration in which each function of the control unit 80 is realized by hardware in accordance with Embodiments 1, 2, and 3. A logic circuit 81 a for realizing the functions of the control unit 80 is incorporated into the processing circuit 81 .

[0213] When the processing circuit 81 is a processing device, the functions of the control unit 80 are implemented by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware.

[0214] Figure 16This diagram shows the structure of the control unit 80 in Embodiments 1, 2, and 3, which implements various functions using software. The processing circuit 81 includes a processor 811 that executes a program 81b, a random access memory 812 that uses the processor 811 as a work area, and a storage device 813 that stores the program 81b. The processor 811 loads the program 81b stored in the storage device 813 onto the random access memory 812, thereby implementing the functions of the control unit 80. Software or firmware is written in a programming language and stored in the storage device 813. A central processing unit (CPU) can be used as an example of the processor 811, but is not limited to this. The storage device 813 can employ semiconductor memories such as RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), flash memory, EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), or EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory). The semiconductor memory may be either a non-volatile memory or a volatile memory. Furthermore, the storage device 813 may also employ a magnetic disk, a floppy disk, an optical disk, a compact disc, a minidisc, or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) in addition to the semiconductor memory. Furthermore, the processor 811 may output and store data such as calculation results in the storage device 813, or may cause an auxiliary storage device (not shown) to store the data via the random access memory 812. By integrating the processor 811, the random access memory 812, and the storage device 813 into a single chip, the functions of the control unit 80 may be realized by a microcomputer.

[0215] The processing circuit 81 reads and executes the program 81b stored in the storage device 813, thereby realizing the functions of the control unit 80. In other words, the program 81b causes the computer to execute the procedures and methods for realizing the functions of the control unit 80.

[0216] Alternatively, the processing circuit 81 may implement a portion of the functions of the control unit 80 through dedicated hardware, or may implement a portion of the functions of the control unit 80 through software or firmware.

[0217] Thus, the processing circuit 81 can realize the above-mentioned functions through hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0218] The program 81b for realizing the functions of the outdoor unit control unit 138 in the outdoor unit 13 of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 in Embodiments 1, 2, and 3 causes the processing circuit 81 to execute the functions of the outdoor unit control unit 138. The program 81b for realizing the functions of the outdoor unit control unit 138 includes individually packaged programs for realizing the functions of each of the plurality of control function units included in the outdoor unit control unit 138.

[0219] In addition, the program 81b for realizing the function of the outdoor unit control unit 138 in the outdoor unit 13 of the air-conditioning device 10 in embodiments 1, 2, and 3 includes a program for executing steps for validating each of a plurality of control function units and a program for executing steps for invalidating each of a plurality of control function units.

[0220] The configuration shown in the above embodiment is merely an example, and may be combined with other known technologies, or the embodiments may be combined with each other. Part of the configuration may also be omitted or modified without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0221] Description of Reference Numerals

[0222] 10, 10a, 10b...air conditioning unit; 11...indoor unit; 13, 13a...outdoor unit; 15...remote controller; 17...refrigerant pipe; 111...indoor unit air conditioning unit; 112...indoor unit sensor; 113...indoor unit storage unit; 114...indoor unit communication unit; 115...indoor unit sensor input unit; 116...indoor unit external output unit; 117...indoor unit external input / output unit; 118...indoor unit control unit; 119...indoor unit control board; 131...outdoor unit air conditioning unit; 132...outdoor unit sensor; 133...outdoor unit storage unit; 134...outdoor unit communication unit; 135...outdoor unit sensor input unit; 136...outdoor unit external output unit; 137...outdoor unit external input / output unit; 138...outdoor unit control unit; 138A...A control unit; 138B...B control unit; 138C... C control unit; 138D...D control unit; 138E...E control unit; 138F...F control unit; 139...Function setting unit; 140...Outdoor unit control board; 151...Remote controller operation unit; 152...Remote controller display unit; 153...Remote controller storage unit; 154...Remote controller communication unit; 155...Remote controller control unit; 200...Air conditioning system; 300...Network server; 301...Server communication unit; 302...Server storage unit; 303...Server control unit; 401, 402...Remote monitoring device; 411...Monitoring operation unit; 412...Monitoring display unit; 413...Monitoring storage unit; 414...Monitoring communication unit; 415...Monitoring control unit; 500...Central controller; 501...Controller storage unit; 502...Controller communication unit; 503...Controller control unit.

Claims

1. An air conditioning device for performing air conditioning in an air-conditioning target area, characterized in that: have: a control unit having a plurality of control function units for performing the air conditioning; and a function setting unit that determines, based on model information indicating a model of the air conditioner, the control function unit to be enabled for actual use in the air conditioning control among the plurality of control function units; The control unit enables the control function unit determined to be enabled by the function setting unit.

2. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, characterized in that A storage unit is provided for storing correspondence information of the control function unit indicating the correspondence between the model information and the enabled control function unit, The function setting unit determines the control function unit to be enabled based on the correspondence relationship information between the model information and the control function unit.

3. The air conditioning device according to claim 2, characterized in that The control unit acquires correspondence information of the control function unit from a device external to the air-conditioning apparatus and stores the information in the storage unit.

4. The air conditioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: A storage unit is provided for storing correspondence information of control constants indicating correspondence between the model information and control constants used for control in the activated control function unit. The function setting unit determines the control constant based on the correspondence relationship information between the model information and the control constant, The control unit sets the control constant determined by the function setting unit in the activated control function unit.

5. The air conditioning device according to claim 4, characterized in that The control unit acquires correspondence information of the control constants from a device external to the air-conditioning apparatus and stores the information in the storage unit.

6. An air conditioning system, characterized in that: Equipped with air conditioning and servers, The air conditioning device comprises: a control unit having a plurality of control function units for performing air conditioning of an air-conditioning target area; and a function setting unit that determines, based on model information indicating a model of the air conditioner, the control function unit to be activated for actual use in the air conditioning control among the plurality of control function units; The server is capable of communicating with the air conditioner and includes a server storage unit storing control function unit correspondence information indicating a correspondence between the model information and the enabled control function unit. The function setting unit determines the control function unit to be enabled based on the correspondence relationship information between the model information and the control function unit. The control unit enables the control function unit determined to be enabled by the function setting unit.

7. The air conditioning system according to claim 6, characterized in that The server storage unit stores correspondence information of control constants indicating correspondence between the model information and control constants used for control in the enabled control function unit. The function setting unit determines the control constant based on the correspondence relationship information between the model information and the control constant, The control unit sets the control constant determined by the function setting unit in the activated control function unit.

8. The air conditioning system according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that: The server storage unit stores a program for the air conditioner to realize the control function unit. The air conditioner realizes the control function unit by acquiring the program from the server and executing the program.

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