Air conditioning device, wind direction control method, and program

Abstract

The present invention addresses the problem of reducing the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of an indoor space while suppressing energy consumption. An air conditioning device is provided with: a suction temperature sensor that measures a suction temperature, which is the temperature of air sucked from a suction port of an indoor unit; a radiation sensor that measures a radiation temperature, which is a temperature of radiation heat from the ground; and a control unit provided with: a ground surface temperature estimation unit that estimates a ground surface temperature on the basis of the radiation temperature; and a wind direction control unit that controls wind direction adjustment members respectively provided in a plurality of blow-out ports of the indoor unit, and performs a first wind direction control when the difference between the suction temperature and the ground temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold value, and performs a second wind direction control when the difference between the suction temperature and the ground temperature exceeds the predetermined threshold value. The first air direction control is alternately repeated at a predetermined interval between a state in which the air direction blown from one of the outlets faces downward and the air direction of the air blown from the remaining outlets faces closer to the horizontal direction, and a state in which all the outlets face downward.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to air conditioning devices, airflow control methods, and procedures. Background Technology

[0002] For a comfortable, warm environment, it is recommended to minimize the temperature difference between the area around the head and the area around the feet. For example, in office spaces during winter, due to the large temperature difference, the temperature around the feet is relatively low, and people may feel uncomfortable due to the cold. In such situations, people may change the air conditioning setting to a higher temperature. This change to a higher setting in such an environment is a major cause of excessive heating and wasted energy.

[0003] Previously, as a technology to improve comfort by reducing the temperature difference within a space, there is, for example, the technology described in Patent Document 1. The airflow control device of the air conditioning unit described in Patent Document 1 controls the direction of the warm air blown from multiple outlets to be all directed downwards when the temperature difference (hereinafter referred to as "vertical temperature difference") obtained by subtracting the floor temperature from the temperature of the air drawn into the air conditioning unit's intake port exceeds a predetermined value during heating operation.

[0004] However, as described in Patent Document 1, if the airflow direction of all the outlets is set to downwards, insufficient airflow (wind speed) can sometimes prevent warm air from reaching the ground due to buoyancy. Conversely, if the airflow is increased (wind speed is increased) to allow warm air to reach the ground, energy consumption, such as electricity, becomes even greater. Thus, there has always been a problem of difficulty in controlling energy consumption and reducing the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of an indoor space.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2-223754 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an air conditioning device, airflow control method and program that can suppress energy consumption and reduce the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of an indoor space.

[0010] Methods for solving problems

[0011] The air conditioning device of Embodiment 1 includes: an intake temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of air drawn in from the intake port of the indoor unit, i.e., the intake temperature; a radiation sensor for measuring the temperature of radiant heat from the ground, i.e., the radiation temperature; and a control unit, the control unit including: a ground temperature estimation unit for estimating the ground temperature based on the radiation temperature; and an airflow control unit for controlling airflow adjustment components respectively equipped on a plurality of air outlets of the indoor unit, and performing first airflow control when the difference between the intake temperature and the ground temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, the first airflow control alternating between a state in which the airflow direction of one of the air outlets is directed downwards and the airflow direction of the remaining air outlets is directed towards a direction closer to the horizontal direction and a state in which all the air outlets are directed downwards at predetermined intervals.

[0012] In embodiment 2, in the air conditioning device of embodiment 1, the airflow control unit sequentially switches the air outlets facing downwards among the plurality of air outlets at predetermined intervals.

[0013] In embodiment 3, the air conditioning device of embodiment 1 further includes an air volume acquisition unit that acquires information indicating a set air volume. The air direction control unit performs first air direction control when the set air volume exceeds a predetermined air volume, and performs second air direction control when the set air volume does not exceed the predetermined air volume, causing the airflow from all the outlets to be directed downwards.

[0014] In embodiment 4, the air conditioning device of embodiment 1 further includes a human body sensing result acquisition unit, which acquires human body sensing result information indicating whether a human body is present in the room. The airflow control unit performs the first airflow control when the human body is present in the room, and increases the fan speed of the indoor air supply fan when the human body is not present in the room.

[0015] The airflow control method of embodiment 5 is a computer-based airflow control method, comprising: an intake temperature acquisition step, which acquires information representing the temperature of air drawn in from the intake port of an indoor unit of an air conditioning device installed on the ceiling, i.e., the intake temperature; a radiation temperature acquisition step, which acquires radiation temperature information representing the temperature of radiant heat from the ground; a ground temperature estimation step, which estimates the ground temperature based on the radiation temperature information; and an airflow control unit step, which controls airflow adjustment components respectively equipped on multiple air outlets of the indoor unit, and when the difference between the intake temperature and the ground temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, alternately repeats a state between a state in which the airflow direction of one of the air outlets is directed downwards and the airflow direction of the remaining air outlets is directed towards a direction closer to the horizontal direction, and a state in which all the air outlets are directed downwards at predetermined intervals.

[0016] The program of embodiment 6 causes the computer to perform the following steps: an intake temperature acquisition step, acquiring information representing the temperature of the air drawn in from the intake port of the indoor unit of the air conditioning unit installed on the ceiling, i.e., the intake temperature; a radiation temperature acquisition step, acquiring radiation temperature information representing the temperature of radiant heat from the ground; a ground temperature estimation step, estimating the ground temperature based on the radiation temperature information; and an airflow control step, controlling the airflow adjustment components respectively equipped on the multiple air outlets of the indoor unit, and when the difference between the intake temperature and the ground temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, alternately repeating a state between a state in which the airflow from one of the air outlets is directed downwards and the airflow from the remaining air outlets is directed towards a direction closer to the horizontal direction, and a state in which all the air outlets are directed downwards at predetermined intervals. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of the air conditioning device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the louvers 12 of the air conditioning device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the sensing range of the radiation sensor 15 of the air conditioning device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the airflow direction control of the air conditioning unit 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the control unit 11 of the air conditioning device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the air conditioning device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a diagram representing the various conditions used to verify the effectiveness.

[0024] Figure 8 It is a diagram that visually represents the measurement results of the upper temperature under the condition of implementing full downwind control.

[0025] Figure 9 This is a graph visually representing the measurement results of the upper temperature under the condition of performing directional specialization wind control.

[0026] Figure 10 It is a diagram that visually represents the measurement results of the lower temperature under conditions of full downwind control.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a graph visually representing the measurement results of the lower temperature under the condition of performing directional specialized wind direction control.

[0028] Figure 12 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the control unit 11a of the air conditioning device 1a according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the air conditioning device 1a according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of the air conditioning device 1b according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 15 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the control unit 11b of the air conditioning device 1b according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the air conditioning device 1b according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Hereinafter, the air conditioning device, airflow control method, and procedure of the embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0034] <First Implementation Method>

[0035] The first embodiment of the present invention will be described below. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of the air conditioning device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 As shown, the air conditioning unit 1 is configured to include an indoor unit 10, an outdoor unit 20, and a refrigerant piping 30.

[0036] Indoor unit 10, for example, is installed on the ceiling of an office building or residence, and is an indoor unit of an air conditioning device capable of blowing warm or cold air in multiple directions. Here, as an example, indoor unit 10 is a ceiling-blowing type indoor unit capable of blowing warm or cold air (hereinafter collectively referred to as "air") from four air outlets respectively provided in four directions. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the airflow direction control of the warm air when indoor unit 10 is in heating operation will be described. However, the present invention can also be applied to the airflow direction control of the cold air when indoor unit 10 is in cooling operation.

[0037] Outdoor unit 20 is the outdoor unit of an air conditioning unit connected to indoor unit 10 via refrigerant piping 30 (bridging piping). Furthermore, as an example, outdoor unit 20 is connected one-to-one with one indoor unit 10, but it can also be configured to connect multiple indoor units 10 to one outdoor unit 20. Refrigerant piping 30 is a pipe used to circulate refrigerant between indoor unit 10 and outdoor unit 20. Indoor unit 10 and outdoor unit 20 are connected by refrigerant piping 30 to form a refrigeration cycle that circulates refrigerant.

[0038] Indoor unit 10 may include, for example, an indoor heat exchanger (not shown), an indoor expansion valve, and an indoor air supply fan.

[0039] The indoor heat exchanger is, for example, a finned tube heat exchanger. The indoor expansion valve is, for example, an electronic expansion valve (PMV). The indoor expansion valve can change (adjust) its opening degree. For example, by increasing the opening degree of the indoor expansion valve, refrigerant flows more easily within it. Conversely, by decreasing the opening degree, refrigerant flows less easily within it. Specifically, the indoor heat exchanger has a valve body with a through-hole and a needle that can move in and out relative to the through-hole. When the through-hole is blocked by the needle, refrigerant does not flow into the indoor heat exchanger. At this time, the indoor heat exchanger is in a closed state, with its opening degree at its minimum.

[0040] On the other hand, when the needle is furthest from the through hole, the refrigerant flows most easily to the indoor heat exchanger. At this time, the indoor heat exchanger is in the open state, and its opening degree is at its maximum.

[0041] The indoor heat exchanger and indoor expansion valve are connected via refrigerant piping 30. Furthermore, refrigerants such as R410A or R32 are used. The refrigerant contains refrigeration oil, etc.

[0042] The indoor air supply fan is, for example, a centrifugal fan. Alternatively, the fan in the indoor air supply fan may be an axial fan or a fan with other configurations. The fan in the indoor air supply fan is arranged opposite to the indoor heat exchanger. Through the operation of the indoor air supply fan, indoor air is drawn into the indoor unit 10. The air drawn into the indoor unit 10 exchanges heat with the refrigerant through the indoor heat exchanger, and is then released back into the room through the operation of the fan.

[0043] The outdoor unit 20 includes, for example, an outdoor heat exchanger (not shown), a four-way valve, a compressor, an outdoor expansion valve, an outdoor fan, and a liquid receiver. Refrigerant piping 30 connects the outdoor expansion valve, the outdoor heat exchanger, the four-way valve, the compressor, and the liquid receiver.

[0044] The outdoor heat exchanger is, for example, a finned tube heat exchanger. The four-way valve is used to switch the direction of refrigerant flow within the refrigerant piping 30. The four-way valve switches the refrigerant flow direction to the direction during heating operation and the opposite direction, i.e., during cooling operation (or defrosting operation). However, the air conditioning unit 1 of this embodiment can also be a dedicated heating air conditioning unit.

[0045] The compressor's operating frequency can be varied by controlling it with a known inverter. The compressor draws in refrigerant through the suction inlet and compresses it internally. It then discharges the compressed refrigerant through the discharge outlet. A receiver is installed at the compressor's suction inlet. The receiver separates the refrigerant into liquid and gaseous components and stores the liquid refrigerant.

[0046] The outdoor expansion valve is constructed in the same way as the indoor expansion valve. The outdoor expansion valve is, for example, an electronic expansion valve (PMV). The outdoor expansion valve can change (adjust) its opening degree. For example, by increasing the opening degree of the outdoor expansion valve, refrigerant flows more easily within it. Conversely, by decreasing the opening degree of the outdoor expansion valve, refrigerant flows more difficult within it.

[0047] An outdoor ventilation fan is a fan equipped with an axial flow fan. In addition, indoor ventilation fans may also have fans with other structures, such as centrifugal fans. The outdoor ventilation fan is positioned opposite the outdoor heat exchanger. Heat exchange occurs between outdoor air and the outdoor heat exchanger through the operation of the outdoor ventilation fan.

[0048] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, the indoor unit 10 includes a control unit 11, louvers 12-1 to 12-4 respectively equipped at four air outlets, an air intake 13, a remote control 14, a radiation sensor 15, and an air intake temperature sensor 16.

[0049] The control unit 11 is an information processing device that controls the operation of the air conditioning unit 1. The control unit 11 is an example of an airflow control device. The control unit 11 includes, for example, a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) connected via a bus, a memory, and an auxiliary storage device. The control unit 11 reads a program from the auxiliary storage device and executes it. The auxiliary storage device is configured using a storage medium such as a magnetic hard disk drive or a semiconductor storage device. For example, the auxiliary storage device is configured using a non-volatile memory such as EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory).

[0050] Furthermore, all or part of the control unit 11 can be implemented using hardware such as ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The program can also be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. Such media include removable media such as floppy disks, optical disks, ROMs, CD-ROMs, and storage devices such as hard drives built into the computer system. The program can also be transmitted via an electrical communication line.

[0051] Louvers 12-1 to 12-4 are respectively provided at the four air outlets of the indoor unit 10 to blow air in four directions. Louvers 12-1 to 12-4 are airflow adjustment components capable of adjusting the airflow direction of the indoor unit 10 at least in the vertical direction. In the following description, unless it is necessary to distinguish between louvers 12-1 to 12-4, they will be referred to simply as "louvers 12".

[0052] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the operation of the louvers 12 of the air conditioning unit 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 As shown, the indoor unit 10 can, for example, switch the state of the louver 12 between at least state (A) and state (B). State (A) refers to the state in which the angle of the louver 12 is such that the air is blown in a direction that is relatively close to horizontal (i.e., a direction that is nearly parallel to the ground or ceiling). On the other hand, state (B) refers to the state in which the angle of the louver 12 is such that the air is blown in a direction that is relatively close to vertical (i.e., a more downward direction).

[0053] Hereinafter, the orientation of the louver 12 in state (A) will sometimes be referred to as "horizontal direction," and the orientation of the louver 12 in state (B) will sometimes be referred to as "downward direction." Furthermore, in this embodiment, the wind direction that can be adjusted by the louver 12 in the up and down directions is only two directions (only two stages) as described above, but it is also possible to adjust it to more wind directions (three stages or more). In addition, the angles of the louvers 12-1 to 12-4 are controlled by the control unit 11 respectively.

[0054] Return again Figure 1 The following explanation is provided. The intake 13 is the opening through which indoor air is drawn into the indoor unit 10. An intake temperature sensor 16, described later, is installed in the intake 13.

[0055] Remote control 14 is an input interface that accepts user input related to the settings of air conditioning unit 1. For example, remote control 14 accepts input operations for switching the power status of air conditioning unit 1 on and off. Or, for example, remote control 14 accepts input operations for indicating a set temperature. For example, a user operates remote control 14 to specify a set temperature in order to achieve a desired indoor temperature.

[0056] The remote controller 14 outputs instruction information based on the input operation to the control unit 11 of the indoor unit 10. Furthermore, the remote controller 14 and the control unit 11 can be connected via a wired communication path or a wireless communication path. The control unit 11 controls the indoor unit 10 and the outdoor unit 20 based on the instruction information input from the remote controller 14. Thus, the air conditioning unit 1 can control the room temperature and switch the power on and off of the air conditioning unit 1 based on the instruction information input from the remote controller 14.

[0057] The radiation sensor 15 is a sensor that senses infrared radiation emitted from various points on the ground and measures the temperature of radiant heat at each point on the ground. Alternatively, the radiation sensor 15 may be configured to measure the temperature of radiant heat at only one point on the ground.

[0058] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the sensing range of the radiation sensor 15 of the air conditioning device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3As shown, the radiation sensor 15 is, for example, installed at a corner of the indoor unit 10. However, the installation location of the radiation sensor 15 is not limited to this. The radiation sensor 15 can measure the temperature of radiant heat at various points on the ground as long as it is within the sensing range d. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the sensing range d of the radiation sensor 15 is square, but it can also be other shapes such as circles. The radiation sensor 15 outputs the measurement result data to the control unit 11. Based on the obtained measurement result data of radiant heat temperature, the control unit 11 estimates (calculates) the temperature (hereinafter referred to as "ground temperature") at various points on the ground within the sensing range d.

[0059] Return again Figure 1 The following explanation is provided. The intake temperature sensor 16 is a sensor that measures the temperature (hereinafter referred to as "intake temperature") of the air drawn into the indoor unit 10 from the indoor space. The intake temperature sensor 16 may use, for example, a thermistor. The intake temperature sensor 16 outputs the measurement result of the intake temperature to the control unit 11.

[0060] The control unit 11 calculates the temperature difference (vertical temperature difference) between the ground temperature estimated from data obtained from the radiation sensor 15 and the inhalation temperature represented by data obtained from the inhalation temperature sensor 16. Based on the calculated vertical temperature difference, the control unit 11 controls the orientation (angle) of the louvers 12 to control the airflow direction. Furthermore, the control unit 11 can also control the airflow (air speed) by controlling the fan speed of the indoor air supply fan, or control the opening of the indoor expansion valve to control the temperature, based on the calculated vertical temperature difference. Additionally, the control unit 11 can further consider the instruction information (setting information) obtained from the remote controller 14 to perform the aforementioned airflow direction control, etc.

[0061] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the configuration uses a radiation sensor 15 and an intake temperature sensor 16 provided on the indoor unit 10 to calculate the temperature difference between the upper and lower surfaces. However, the configuration is not limited to the above as long as the temperature difference between the upper and lower surfaces can be calculated. For example, the floor temperature can be measured by a temperature sensor installed on the floor instead of the radiation sensor 15. Alternatively, the temperature of the upper part of the room can be measured by a temperature sensor installed on the upper part of the indoor wall instead of the intake temperature sensor 16.

[0062] However, in general, when heating is provided by indoor units that blow air from the ceiling, the floor temperature (temperature at the bottom of the room) tends to be relatively lower than the intake temperature (temperature at the top of the room) due to factors such as the buoyancy of the airflow. As a result, people in the room may feel uncomfortable due to the relatively low temperature around their feet.

[0063] In contrast, when the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the ground temperature exceeds a predetermined value (i.e., when the temperature difference between the top and bottom is large), the air conditioning device 1 of this embodiment does not simply orient all the louvers 12 downwards as in the prior art, but rather adjusts the orientation of one louver 12 downwards and adjusts the orientation of the remaining (other three) louvers 12 to the horizontal direction for airflow control.

[0064] like Figure 2 As shown, when the louver 12 is oriented horizontally (i.e., state (A)), the louver 12 becomes at an angle that further obstructs the opening (outlet) of the indoor unit 10. Therefore, compared to the case where the louver 12 is oriented downwards (i.e., state (B)), the volume of air blown out is less. Thus, when only one louver 12 is oriented downwards, compared to the other three outlets where the louver 12 is oriented horizontally, a greater volume (higher air velocity) of air is concentrated and blown out from the outlet of the downward-facing louver 12. This allows more air to be delivered to the lower part of the room, reducing the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of the room.

[0065] In addition, the air blown out from the horizontally oriented louvers 12 is also reflected on the interior walls, circulating within the room while being reflected on the floor and ceiling, thus creating a circulation effect. Through this circulation effect, the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of the interior space is further reduced.

[0066] Furthermore, the air conditioning unit 1 of this embodiment aims not only to reduce the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of the indoor space, but also to reduce the temperature deviation of the ground, by controlling the air outlets with the louvers 12 angled downwards to switch sequentially at certain intervals. Hereinafter, an example of the airflow direction control of the air conditioning unit 1 of this embodiment will be described.

[0067] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the airflow direction control of the air conditioning unit 1 according to the first embodiment. (See diagram below.) Figure 4 As shown, in the airflow direction control of the air conditioning device 1 in this embodiment, the basic orientation of the four louvers 12 is that all the louvers 12 are facing downwards. Figure 4 (The state of the central diagram).

[0068] First, when the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the ground temperature (top-bottom temperature difference) of the air conditioning unit 1 exceeds the specified value, the orientation of the louvers 12-2, 12-3, and 12-4 is adjusted to a horizontal direction. Figure 4(1)). As a result, the airflow from the outlet of the louver 12-1, which has a unique downward orientation, increases (the air velocity increases), and the air is further delivered into the lower part of the room. After 5 minutes, the air conditioning unit 1 returns the louvers 12-2, 12-3, and 12-4 to their basic state ( Figure 4 (2)).

[0069] Next, after 5 minutes in the basic state, if the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of the unit exceeds the specified value, the air conditioning unit 1 adjusts the orientation of the louvers 12-1, 12-3, and 12-4 to a horizontal direction. Figure 4 (3)). As a result, the airflow from the outlet of the louver 12-2, which is equipped with the only downward-facing louver, increases (the airflow speed increases), and the air is further delivered into the lower part of the room. After 5 minutes, the air conditioning unit 1 returns the louvers 12-1, 12-3, and 12-4 to their basic state ( Figure 4 (4)).

[0070] Next, after 5 minutes in the basic state, if the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of the unit exceeds the specified value, the air conditioning unit 1 adjusts the orientation of the louvers 12-1, 12-2, and 12-4 to a horizontal direction. Figure 4 (5)). As a result, the airflow from the outlet of the louver 12-3, which is equipped with the only downward-facing louver, increases (the airflow speed increases), and the air is further delivered into the lower part of the room. After 5 minutes, the air conditioning unit 1 returns the louvers 12-1, 12-2, and 12-4 to their basic state ( Figure 4 (6)).

[0071] Next, after 5 minutes in the basic state, if the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of the unit exceeds the specified value, the air conditioning unit 1 adjusts the orientation of the louvers 12-1, 12-2, and 12-3 to a horizontal direction. Figure 4 (7)). As a result, the airflow from the outlet equipped with the only downward-facing louver 12-4 increases (the air velocity increases), and the air is further delivered into the lower part of the room. After 5 minutes, the air conditioning unit 1 returns the louvers 12-1, 12-2, and 12-3 to their basic state ( Figure 4 (5)). Subsequently, during the period when the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts exceeds the specified value, the air conditioning unit 1 continues to repeat. Figure 4 The switching action of the orientation of the louvers 12 shown in (1) to (8).

[0072] Furthermore, in the following explanation, Figure 4The wind direction control shown, which alternates between a state where only one louver 12 faces downwards and a state where all louvers 12 face downwards at predetermined intervals, and sequentially switches the downward-facing louvers 12, is called "direction-specific wind direction control." Furthermore, in the following description, wind direction control where all louvers 12 are set to face downwards, as in the prior art, is called "all-downward wind direction control." In addition, conventional general wind direction control that does not perform either of these wind direction controls is called "basic wind direction control."

[0073] When downwind control is implemented, buoyancy can sometimes prevent the wind from reaching the ground. Furthermore, in this situation, the areas where the wind reaches and does not reach the ground tend to become fixed, leading to variations in ground temperature. On the other hand, increasing the airflow (increasing wind speed) to reach the ground increases energy consumption and noise levels.

[0074] In contrast, Figure 4 In the directional-specialized airflow control of the air conditioning unit 1 of this embodiment, only the louvers 12 of one air outlet are oriented downwards, while the louvers 12 of the remaining (three other) air outlets are all oriented horizontally. This increases the airflow volume (increases the air velocity) from the air outlets where the louvers 12 are oriented downwards. Therefore, the air conditioning unit 1 of this embodiment can prevent increased energy consumption and noise, and can deliver air to the lower part of the room, reducing the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of the room. Furthermore, a circulation effect is generated, further reducing the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of the room.

[0075] In addition, such as Figure 4 As shown, the direction-specific airflow control of the air conditioning unit 1 in this embodiment is performed as follows: It alternates between a state where only one louver 12 faces downwards and a state where all louvers 12 face downwards at predetermined intervals, and sequentially switches between states where the downward-facing louvers 12 are rotated. This creates an opportunity for only one louver 12 to face downwards among all the louvers 12, thus reducing the deviation in ground temperature.

[0076] Furthermore, as explained above, when the air conditioning unit 1 of this embodiment switches the downward-facing louvers 12, it temporarily returns to the basic state and waits for a predetermined period (5 minutes). If it continues in a state where only one louver 12 faces downward without temporarily returning to the basic state, the area where airflow cannot reach for an extended period may increase. This could potentially create areas where the floor temperature actually decreases. In other words, by temporarily returning to the basic state and waiting for a predetermined period when switching the downward-facing louvers 12, the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of the indoor space can be reduced more effectively, and the deviation in floor temperature can be decreased.

[0077] [Structure of the Control Department]

[0078] The functional structure of the control unit 11 will be explained below. Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the control unit 11 of the air conditioning device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 As shown, the control unit 11 is configured to include a radiation temperature acquisition unit 111, a ground temperature estimation unit 112, an intake temperature acquisition unit 113, a control method determination unit 114, and a wind direction control unit 115.

[0079] The radiation temperature acquisition unit 111 acquires data representing the temperature of radiant heat at various points on the ground, as measured by the radiation sensor 15. The radiation temperature acquisition unit 111 outputs the acquired data to the ground temperature estimation unit 112. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the radiation sensor 15 may also be configured to measure the temperature of radiant heat at only one point on the ground.

[0080] The ground temperature estimation unit 112 acquires data from the radiation temperature acquisition unit 111, representing the measurement results of the radiant heat temperature at various points on the ground. Based on the acquired data, the ground temperature estimation unit 112 estimates (calculates) the ground temperature at each point. Furthermore, any method can be used to estimate the ground temperature based on the radiant heat temperature. For example, the ground temperature estimation unit 112 can estimate the ground temperature by adding +2 [°C] to the radiant heat temperature. Alternatively, the ground temperature estimation unit 112 can consider the radiant heat temperature itself as the ground temperature.

[0081] The ground temperature estimation unit 112 determines a representative ground temperature based on the estimated ground temperatures at various locations and outputs it to the control method determination unit 114. The representative ground temperature, along with the absorption temperature, is used to calculate the temperature difference between the upper and lower surfaces. For example, the ground temperature estimation unit 112 outputs the average value of the estimated ground temperatures at various locations as the representative ground temperature to the control method determination unit 114. Alternatively, the ground temperature estimation unit 112 may output the most frequent or median value of the estimated ground temperatures at various locations as the representative ground temperature to the control method determination unit 114, or it may output the lowest or highest estimated ground temperature among the estimated ground temperatures at various locations as the representative ground temperature to the control method determination unit 114.

[0082] The inhalation temperature acquisition unit 113 acquires data representing the measurement result of the inhalation temperature measured by the inhalation temperature sensor 16. The inhalation temperature acquisition unit 113 outputs the acquired data to the control method determination unit 114.

[0083] The control method determination unit 114 acquires representative ground temperature data output from the ground temperature estimation unit 112. Additionally, the control method determination unit 114 acquires intake temperature data output from the intake temperature acquisition unit 113. Based on the acquired ground temperature and intake temperature, the control method determination unit 114 determines the wind direction control method. For example, if the difference between the intake temperature and the ground temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., 5°C), the control method determination unit 114 executes the aforementioned method. Figure 4 The example shown is a direction-specific wind direction control. On the other hand, for example, if the difference between the intake temperature and the ground temperature does not exceed a predetermined threshold (e.g., 5°C), the control method determination unit 114 does not perform direction-specific wind direction control, but performs normal wind direction control, i.e., the aforementioned basic wind direction control.

[0084] [Operation of the air conditioning unit]

[0085] The following is an example of the operation of air conditioning unit 1. Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the air conditioning device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The operation of the air conditioning device 1 shown in this flowchart begins, for example, when the power supply of the air conditioning device 1 is switched on.

[0086] The intake temperature sensor 16 measures the temperature of the air drawn into the indoor unit 10 from the indoor space, i.e., the intake temperature (step S001). The intake temperature sensor 16 outputs the measurement result of the intake temperature to the control unit 11. The radiation sensor 15 senses infrared radiation emitted from various points on the ground and measures the temperature of the radiant heat at each point on the ground (step S002). The radiation sensor 15 outputs the measurement result data to the control unit 11.

[0087] The control unit 11 estimates the ground temperature based on the radiant heat temperature represented by the data obtained from the inhalation temperature sensor 16 (step S003). The control unit 11 calculates the difference between the measured inhalation temperature and the estimated ground temperature (step S004). If the calculated difference exceeds a predetermined threshold (step S005, Yes), the control unit 11 performs the aforementioned steps. Figure 4 The direction-specific wind direction control shown is performed (step S006). On the other hand, if the calculated difference does not exceed a predetermined threshold, the control unit 11 performs normal wind direction control, namely the aforementioned basic wind direction control (step S007).

[0088] After a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of airflow control in step S006 or S007 (step S008 - Yes), if no indication of operation termination is received (step S009 - No), the air conditioning unit 1 returns to step S001 and repeats the above operation. If an indication of operation termination is received (step S009 - Yes), Figure 6 The operation of the air conditioning unit 1 shown in the flowchart has ended.

[0089] (Effect Verification)

[0090] The following is a summary description of the results of the effect verification of this embodiment under specified conditions. As a method for effect verification, after performing the aforementioned... Figure 4 In the case of directional specialization airflow control and the case of implementing the aforementioned all-downward airflow control, the upper and lower temperatures of the indoor space were measured respectively, and the effect was verified by comparing the measurement results. Furthermore, as mentioned above, directional specialization airflow control refers to an airflow control that alternates between a state where only one louver 12 faces downward and a state where all louvers 12 face downward at predetermined intervals, and sequentially switches the downward-facing louvers 12. All-downward airflow control is an airflow control that keeps the airflow direction of all louvers 12 fixed downward.

[0091] Figure 7 This is a diagram representing the various conditions used in effect verification. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the upper temperature is set to the temperature at a position 1.2 m above the ground, and the lower temperature is set to the temperature at a position 0.05 m above the ground. Furthermore, the temperatures at various points within a 4-meter square area at positions 1.2 m and 0.05 m directly below the indoor unit 10 were measured. Figures 8-11 This is a graph representing the results of effect verification.

[0092] Figure 8 This is a graph visually representing the measured temperature at a location 1.2 m above ground under conditions of fully downwind control. (Example) Figure 8 As shown, the 4-meter square measurement area was divided into 25 5×5 zones, and the temperature of each zone was measured. Furthermore, regarding future... Figures 9-11 Similarly. In Figures 8-11 In the diagram, areas painted with a darker color represent higher temperatures. For example... Figure 8 As shown, it can be seen that when the downwind direction control is implemented, the temperature in the central area is relatively higher than that at the ends, even at the same height (1.2m above ground), there is a temperature deviation depending on the location.

[0093] Figure 9This is a graph visually representing the measured temperature at a location 1.2 m above ground under directional wind control conditions. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the upper temperature under directional specialized wind direction control and the temperature under the aforementioned control are compared. Figure 8 As shown in the diagram, under the condition of all-downward wind control, the upper temperature is found to be the highest without any omissions within the entire 4-meter square measurement range. That is, it is considered that at a position of 1.2 [m] on the ground, the direction-specialized wind control of the present invention has a higher circulation effect compared to all-downward wind control.

[0094] Figure 10 This is a graph visually representing the measured temperature at a location 0.05 m above ground under conditions of fully downwind control. (Example) Figure 10 As shown, it can be seen that the lower temperature under the condition of implementing full downwind control is similar to the aforementioned... Figure 8 Compared to the upper temperatures shown, the temperature is relatively low in most areas, except for a small region near the center. That is, in downwind control, it is assumed that the wind is difficult to reach the ground, the ground temperature is lower overall, and temperature deviations are more likely to occur.

[0095] Figure 11 This is a graph that visually represents the measured temperature at a location 0.05 m above ground under directional wind control conditions. For example... Figure 11 As shown, the lower temperature under directional specialized wind direction control and the temperature under the aforementioned control are compared. Figure 10 As shown in the case of all-downward wind direction control, the temperature at the bottom is high throughout the entire 4-meter square measurement range without any omissions. That is, it is believed that compared with all-downward wind direction control, the direction-specialized wind direction control of the present invention makes it easier for the wind to reach the ground, and the ground temperature is less likely to deviate.

[0096] Furthermore, if we compare the upper temperature under the condition of implementing full downwind control ( Figure 8 ) and lower temperature ( Figure 10 If we consider the temperature difference between the two, it can be concluded that the reduction in the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts is insufficient under directional wind control. On the other hand, if we consider the upper temperature under directional-specialized wind control... Figure 9 ) and lower temperature ( Figure 11Comparing the two, the temperature difference is quite small. That is, the directional-specialized airflow control of the present invention is considered to have the effect of reducing the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of the indoor space, and also to reduce the deviation of the ground temperature. Furthermore, comparing the case of full-downward directional airflow control with the case of directional-specialized airflow control, it is found that the case of directional-specialized airflow control results in higher temperatures at both the upper and lower parts. That is, it is considered that when directional-specialized airflow control is implemented, energy consumption can be suppressed, and the air in the indoor space can be conditioned efficiently.

[0097] <Second Implementation Method>

[0098] The second embodiment of the present invention will now be described. Generally, a certain airflow (wind speed) is required for a circulation effect. In particular, when the distance from the indoor unit's outlet to the wall is long and the airflow (wind speed) is insufficient to reach the wall, the circulation effect may be significantly reduced. In contrast, increasing the airflow (increasing the wind speed) may be considered, but this could lead to increased noise and increased energy consumption.

[0099] The air conditioning unit (hereinafter referred to as "air conditioning unit 1a") of the second embodiment described below performs different airflow direction control according to the set airflow (hereinafter referred to as "set airflow"). Specifically, when the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of the room is large, and when the set airflow exceeds a predetermined threshold, the air conditioning unit 1a performs the aforementioned control. Figure 4 The directional-specialized airflow control shown executes the aforementioned all-downward airflow control when the set airflow does not exceed a threshold. With this configuration, the air conditioning unit 1a in the second embodiment can perform airflow control suitable for the set airflow, thereby reducing the temperature difference between the upper and lower surfaces and decreasing the deviation of the ground temperature.

[0100] Furthermore, the overall configuration of the air conditioning unit 1a in the second embodiment described below is the same as described above. Figure 1 The overall configuration of the air conditioning unit 1 of the first embodiment is the same, so the description is omitted. The indoor unit (hereinafter referred to as "indoor unit 10a") of the air conditioning unit 1a of the second embodiment has a control unit 11a instead of the aforementioned control unit 11.

[0101] [Structure of the Control Department]

[0102] The functional structure of the control unit 11a will be explained below. Figure 12 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the control unit 11a of the air conditioning device 1a according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12As shown, the control unit 11a is configured to include a radiation temperature acquisition unit 111, a ground temperature estimation unit 112, an intake temperature acquisition unit 113, a control method determination unit 114a, a wind direction control unit 115, and an air volume acquisition unit 116.

[0103] The radiation temperature acquisition unit 111 acquires data representing the temperature of radiant heat at various points on the ground, measured by the radiation sensor 15. The radiation temperature acquisition unit 111 outputs the acquired data to the ground temperature estimation unit 112. The ground temperature estimation unit 112 acquires the data representing the temperature of radiant heat at various points on the ground, output from the radiation temperature acquisition unit 111. The ground temperature estimation unit 112 estimates (calculates) the ground temperature at each point based on the acquired data. Based on the estimated ground temperature at each point, the ground temperature estimation unit 112 determines a representative ground temperature and outputs it to the control method determination unit 114a. The intake temperature acquisition unit 113 acquires data representing the intake temperature, measured by the intake temperature sensor 16. The intake temperature acquisition unit 113 outputs the acquired data to the control method determination unit 114a.

[0104] The airflow acquisition unit 116 acquires the instruction information indicating the set temperature and set airflow output from the remote controller 14. The airflow acquisition unit 116 outputs the data indicating the set temperature and set airflow to the control method determination unit 114a.

[0105] The control method determination unit 114a acquires ground temperature data output from the ground temperature estimation unit 112. Additionally, the control method determination unit 114a acquires suction temperature data output from the suction temperature acquisition unit 113. Furthermore, the control method determination unit 114a acquires set temperature and set airflow data output from the airflow acquisition unit 116. The control method determination unit 114a determines the control method for airflow direction control based on the acquired ground temperature, suction temperature, set temperature, and set airflow.

[0106] For example, if the difference between the intake temperature and the ground temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., 5°C), the control method determination unit 114a checks whether the airflow exceeds a predetermined threshold. If the airflow exceeds the predetermined threshold, the control method determination unit 114a performs the aforementioned steps, similar to the first embodiment described above. Figure 4 The direction-specific wind direction control is shown. On the other hand, if the air volume does not exceed a predetermined threshold, the control method determination unit 114a performs the aforementioned all-downward wind direction control.

[0107] In addition, for example, if the difference between the intake temperature and the ground temperature does not exceed a predetermined threshold (e.g., 5 [°C]), the control method determination unit 114a performs the normal wind direction control, i.e., basic wind direction control, in the same way as the first embodiment described above.

[0108] [Operation of the air conditioning unit]

[0109] The following is an example of the operation of the air conditioning unit 1a. Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the air conditioning unit 1a according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The operation of the air conditioning unit 1a shown in this flowchart begins, for example, when the power supply of the air conditioning unit 1a is switched on.

[0110] The intake temperature sensor 16 measures the temperature of the air drawn into the indoor unit 10 from the indoor space, i.e., the intake temperature (step S101). The intake temperature sensor 16 outputs the measurement result of the intake temperature to the control unit 11a. The radiation sensor 15 senses infrared radiation emitted from various points on the ground and measures the temperature of the radiant heat at each point on the ground (step S102). The radiation sensor 15 outputs the measurement result data to the control unit 11a.

[0111] The control unit 11a estimates the ground temperature based on the temperature of radiant heat represented by the data obtained from the intake temperature sensor 16 (step S103). The control unit 11a calculates the difference obtained by subtracting the ground temperature from the intake temperature (step S104). If the calculated difference does not exceed a predetermined threshold (step S105 No), the control unit 11a performs normal wind direction control, i.e., the aforementioned basic wind direction control (step S106).

[0112] On the other hand, if the calculated difference exceeds a predetermined threshold (step S105, Yes), the control unit 11a confirms whether the air volume exceeds the predetermined threshold (step S107). If the air volume exceeds the predetermined threshold (step S107, Yes), the control unit 11a performs the aforementioned... Figure 4 The direction-specific wind direction control shown is performed (step S006). If the air volume exceeds a predetermined threshold (step S107 No), the control unit 11a performs the aforementioned all-downward wind direction control (step S108).

[0113] After a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of airflow control in steps S106, S108, or S109 (step S110 - Yes), if no indication of operation termination is received (step S111 - No), the air conditioning unit 1 returns to step S101 and repeats the above operation. If an indication of operation termination is received (step S111 - Yes), Figure 13 The operation of the air conditioning unit 1a shown in the flowchart has ended.

[0114] <Third Implementation Method>

[0115] The third embodiment of the present invention will now be described. Generally, in an environment where no one is present, the noise level of the air conditioner can be set more leniently compared to an environment where someone is present, thus allowing for a further increase in the fan speed of the indoor air supply fan. The air conditioning device 1b of the third embodiment described below is configured to increase the fan speed of the indoor air supply fan when it is sensed that no one is present in the indoor space and the difference between the intake temperature and the floor temperature exceeds a threshold. As a result, the air conditioning device 1b can reduce the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of the indoor space and the deviation of the floor temperature in a shorter time when no one is present in the indoor space. In addition, the air conditioning device 1b of the third embodiment described below is configured to perform air supply operation when it is sensed that no one is present in the indoor space and the difference between the intake temperature and the floor temperature does not exceed a threshold. As a result, the air conditioning device 1b can suppress energy consumption when no one is present in the indoor space.

[0116] The configuration of the air conditioning device 1b according to the third embodiment will be described below. Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall structure of the air conditioning device 1b according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 As shown, the air conditioning unit 1b is configured to include an indoor unit 10b, an outdoor unit 20, and refrigerant piping 30. The air conditioning unit 1b of the third embodiment differs from the aforementioned embodiment in that it includes an indoor unit 10b instead of an indoor unit 10. Figure 1 The configuration of the air conditioning device 1 shown in the first embodiment is different.

[0117] like Figure 14 As shown, the indoor unit 10b includes a control unit 11b, louvers 12-1 to 12-4 respectively equipped at four air outlets, an intake 13, a remote control 14, a radiation sensor 15, an intake temperature sensor 16, and a human touch sensor 17. The indoor unit 10b in the third embodiment is similar to the one described above. Figure 1 The difference in the configuration of the control unit 11 of the indoor unit 10 in the first embodiment shown is that a control unit 11b is provided instead of a control unit 11, and a human sensing sensor 17 is also provided.

[0118] The human sensor 17 is capable of detecting people in the indoor space. The human sensor 17 outputs information indicating whether a person is detected to the control unit 11b in sequence.

[0119] [Structure of the Control Department]

[0120] The functional structure of the control unit 11b will be explained below. Figure 15This is a block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the control unit 11b of the air conditioning device 1b according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15 As shown, the control unit 11b is configured to include a radiation temperature acquisition unit 111, a ground temperature estimation unit 112, an inhalation temperature acquisition unit 113, a control method determination unit 114b, a wind direction control unit 115, an air volume acquisition unit 116, and a human body sensing result acquisition unit 117.

[0121] The radiation temperature acquisition unit 111 acquires data representing the temperature of radiant heat at various points on the ground, measured by the radiation sensor 15. The radiation temperature acquisition unit 111 outputs the acquired data to the ground temperature estimation unit 112. The ground temperature estimation unit 112 acquires the data representing the temperature of radiant heat at various points on the ground, output from the radiation temperature acquisition unit 111. The ground temperature estimation unit 112 estimates (calculates) the ground temperature at each point based on the acquired data. Based on the estimated ground temperature at each point, the ground temperature estimation unit 112 determines a representative ground temperature and outputs it to the control method determination unit 114b. The intake temperature acquisition unit 113 acquires data representing the intake temperature, measured by the intake temperature sensor 16. The intake temperature acquisition unit 113 outputs the acquired data to the control method determination unit 114b.

[0122] The airflow acquisition unit 116 acquires the instruction information indicating the set temperature and set airflow output from the remote controller 14. The airflow acquisition unit 116 outputs the data indicating the set temperature and set airflow to the control method determination unit 114b.

[0123] The human body sensing result acquisition unit 117 can sequentially sense people present in the indoor space. The human body sensing result acquisition unit 117 outputs information indicating the sensing result of people to the control method determination unit 114b. Furthermore, any method can be used as the human body sensing method. For example, a thermal imager can be used to sense the human body. Additionally, sensing can be based on, for example, CO2 emissions.

[0124] The control method determination unit 114b acquires ground temperature data output from the ground temperature estimation unit 112. Additionally, the control method determination unit 114b acquires inhalation temperature data output from the inhalation temperature acquisition unit 113. Furthermore, the control method determination unit 114b acquires set temperature and set airflow data output from the airflow acquisition unit 116. Finally, the control method determination unit 114b acquires human body sensing result data output from the human body sensing result acquisition unit 117.

[0125] The control method determination unit 114b determines the airflow control method based on the inhalation temperature, set temperature, set airflow, and human sensing results.

[0126] If the human body sensing result acquisition unit 117 does not sense a person, the control method determination unit 114b performs the aforementioned... Figure 12 The control method determination unit 114a in the second embodiment shown undergoes the same processing. On the other hand, when a person is detected by the human body sensing result acquisition unit 117, the control method determination unit 114b performs the processing described below.

[0127] For example, if the difference between the intake temperature and the floor temperature does not exceed a predetermined threshold (e.g., 5°C), the control method determination unit 114b performs air supply operation. On the other hand, if the difference between the intake temperature and the floor temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., 5°C), the control method determination unit 114b increases the fan speed of the indoor air supply fan.

[0128] [Operation of the air conditioning unit]

[0129] The following is an example of the operation of the air conditioning unit 1b. Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the air conditioning device 1b according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The operation of the air conditioning device 1b shown in this flowchart begins, for example, when the power supply of the air conditioning device 1b is switched on.

[0130] If the human body sensing result acquisition unit 117 does not detect a human body in the indoor space (step S201 - No), the air conditioning unit 1b performs the aforementioned... Figure 13 The air conditioning unit 1a of the second embodiment shown in the flowchart operates in the same way. On the other hand, when the human body sensing result acquisition unit 117 senses a person in the indoor space (step S201 - Yes), the air conditioning unit 1b performs the following operations after step S202.

[0131] The intake temperature sensor 16 measures the temperature of the air drawn into the indoor unit 10 from the indoor space, i.e., the intake temperature (step S202). The intake temperature sensor 16 outputs the measurement result of the intake temperature to the control unit 11b. The radiation sensor 15 senses infrared radiation emitted from various points on the ground and measures the temperature of radiant heat at each point on the ground (step S203). The radiation sensor 15 outputs the measurement result data to the control unit 11b.

[0132] The control unit 11b estimates the ground temperature based on the radiant heat temperature represented by the data obtained from the intake temperature sensor 16 (step S204). The control unit 11b calculates the difference between the intake temperature and the ground temperature (step S205). If the calculated difference does not exceed a predetermined threshold (step S206 - No), the control unit 11b performs air supply operation (step S207). On the other hand, if the calculated difference exceeds the predetermined threshold (step S206 - Yes), the control unit 11b increases the fan speed of the indoor air supply fan (step S208).

[0133] If a predetermined time elapses after the start of operation control in step S207 or S208 (step S209 - Yes), and no instruction to end operation is received (step S210 - No), the air conditioning unit 1b returns to step S202 and repeats the above operation. If an instruction to end operation is received (step S210 - Yes), Figure 16 The operation of the air conditioning unit 1b shown in the flowchart has ended.

[0134] With the configuration described above, the air conditioning device of each embodiment of the present invention can suppress energy consumption and reduce the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of the indoor space.

[0135] According to the above embodiments, the airflow control device includes an intake temperature acquisition unit, a radiation temperature acquisition unit, a ground temperature estimation unit, and an airflow control unit. For example, the airflow control device is control unit 11, 11a, or 11b in the embodiments, the intake temperature acquisition unit is intake temperature acquisition unit 113 in the embodiments, the radiation temperature acquisition unit is radiation temperature acquisition unit 111 in the embodiments, the ground temperature estimation unit is ground temperature estimation unit 112 in the embodiments, and the airflow control unit is airflow control unit 115 in the embodiments. The intake temperature acquisition unit acquires information indicating the temperature of the air drawn in from the intake port of the indoor unit of the air conditioning unit installed on the ceiling, i.e., the intake temperature. For example, the air conditioning unit is air conditioning unit 1, 1a, or 1b in the embodiments, the indoor unit is indoor unit 10, 10a, or 10b in the embodiments, and the intake port is intake port 13 in the embodiments. The radiation temperature acquisition unit acquires radiation temperature information indicating the temperature of radiant heat from the ground. The ground temperature estimation unit estimates the ground temperature based on the radiation temperature information. The airflow control unit controls the airflow adjustment components equipped at multiple air outlets of the indoor unit. When the difference between the intake temperature and the ground temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, it performs first airflow control. This first airflow control alternates between a state in which the airflow from one outlet is directed downwards and the airflow from the remaining outlets is directed more horizontally, and a state in which all outlets are directed downwards, at predetermined intervals. For example, the airflow adjustment component is the louver 12 in this embodiment, and the first airflow control is a direction-specific airflow control in this embodiment.

[0136] Furthermore, in the aforementioned wind direction control device, the wind direction control unit can also sequentially switch the downward-facing blowouts among the multiple blowouts at predetermined intervals.

[0137] Furthermore, the aforementioned wind direction control device may also include an airflow acquisition unit. In this case, for example, the wind direction control device is the control unit 11a in the embodiment, and the airflow acquisition unit is the airflow acquisition unit 116 in the embodiment. The airflow acquisition unit acquires information indicating the airflow. In this case, the wind direction control unit performs first wind direction control when the airflow exceeds a predetermined airflow, and performs second wind direction control when the airflow does not exceed the predetermined airflow, directing the airflow from all the outlets downwards. For example, the second wind direction control is the all-downward wind direction control in the embodiment.

[0138] Furthermore, the aforementioned airflow control device may also include a human body sensing result acquisition unit. In this case, the human body sensing result acquisition unit acquires human body sensing result information indicating whether a person is present in the room. In this case, for example, the airflow control device is the control unit 11b in the embodiment, and the human body sensing result acquisition unit is the human body sensing result acquisition unit 117 in the embodiment. In this case, the airflow control unit performs first airflow control when a person is present in the room, and increases the fan speed of the indoor air supply fan when no person is present in the room.

[0139] Furthermore, according to the above embodiments, the air conditioning unit includes an intake temperature sensor, a radiation sensor, and a control unit. For example, the air conditioning unit is air conditioning unit 1, 1a, or 1b in the embodiments, the intake temperature sensor is intake temperature sensor 16 in the embodiments, the radiation sensor is radiation sensor 15 in the embodiments, and the control unit is control unit 11, 11a, or 11b in the embodiments. The intake temperature sensor measures the temperature of the air drawn in from the intake port of the indoor unit of the air conditioning unit, i.e., the intake temperature. For example, the indoor unit is indoor unit 10, 10a, or 10b in the embodiments, and the intake port is intake port 13 in the embodiments. The radiation sensor measures the temperature of radiant heat from the ground, i.e., the radiation temperature. The control unit includes a ground temperature estimation unit and an airflow direction control unit. The ground temperature estimation unit is ground temperature estimation unit 112 in the embodiments, and the airflow direction control unit is airflow direction control unit 115 in the embodiments. The ground temperature estimation unit estimates the ground temperature based on the radiation temperature. The airflow control unit controls the airflow adjustment components equipped at multiple air outlets of the indoor unit. When the difference between the intake temperature and the ground temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, it performs first airflow control. This first airflow control alternates between a state in which the airflow from one outlet is directed downwards and the airflow from the remaining outlets is directed more horizontally, and a state in which all outlets are directed downwards, at predetermined intervals. For example, the airflow adjustment component is the louver 12 in this embodiment, and the first airflow control is a direction-specific airflow control in this embodiment.

[0140] The air conditioning device 1 described in the above embodiments can also be implemented using a computer. In this case, it can be implemented by recording the program for implementing this function on a computer-readable recording medium, and having the computer system read and execute the program recorded on the recording medium. Furthermore, the term "computer system" here includes hardware such as an operating system and peripheral devices. Additionally, "computer-readable recording medium" refers to removable media such as floppy disks, optical disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, and storage devices such as hard disks built into the computer system. Moreover, "computer-readable recording medium" can also include a medium that dynamically maintains the program for a short period of time, such as a communication line used to send the program via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line, or a medium that maintains the program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory inside a computer system that acts as a server or client in such cases. Furthermore, the program described above can be a program for implementing the above function, a program that can implement the above function by combining it with a program already recorded in the computer system, or a program implemented using hardware such as a PLD (Programmable Logic Device) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0141] Several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are given by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments or variations thereof are included within the scope or spirit of the invention, and are also included within the scope of the invention as described in the claims and their equivalents.

[0142] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0143] 1. Air conditioning units 1a and 1b

[0144] Indoor units 10, 10a, and 10b

[0145] 11, 11a, 11b Control Unit

[0146] 12 Louvered panels

[0147] 13 suction port

[0148] 14. Remote Control

[0149] 15 Radiation Sensors

[0150] 16. Inhalation temperature sensor

[0151] 17 Human Sensing Sensors

[0152] 20 outdoor units

[0153] 30 Refrigerant piping

[0154] 111 Radiation Temperature Acquisition Department

[0155] 112 Ground Temperature Estimation Section

[0156] 113 Inhalation Temperature Acquisition Section

[0157] 114, 114a, 114b Control Method Decision Department

[0158] 115 Wind Direction Control Department

[0159] 116 Airflow Acquisition Section

[0160] 117 Human Body Sensing Results Acquisition Unit

[0161] d Sensing range

Claims

1. An air conditioning device, comprising: The intake temperature sensor measures the temperature of the air drawn in from the indoor unit's intake port, i.e., the intake temperature. A radiation sensor measures the temperature of radiant heat from the ground, i.e., radiation temperature; and Control Department The control unit includes: The ground temperature estimation unit estimates the ground temperature based on the radiation temperature; and The airflow control unit controls the airflow adjustment components respectively equipped on the multiple air outlets of the indoor unit. When the difference between the intake temperature and the ground temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, the first airflow control is performed. The first airflow control alternately repeats at predetermined intervals between a state in which the airflow from one of the air outlets is directed downwards and the airflow from the remaining air outlets is directed in a direction closer to the horizontal direction, and a state in which all the air outlets are directed downwards.

2. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, The wind direction control unit causes the air outlets facing downwards among the plurality of air outlets to switch sequentially at predetermined intervals.

3. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, further comprising: The air volume acquisition unit acquires information indicating the air volume. The wind direction control unit performs first wind direction control when the air volume exceeds a predetermined air volume, and performs second wind direction control when the air volume does not exceed the predetermined air volume, so that the wind blowing out from all the outlets is directed downwards.

4. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, further comprising: The human body sensing result acquisition unit acquires human body sensing result information indicating whether a human body is present in the room. The airflow control unit performs the first airflow control when the human body is present in the room, and increases the fan speed of the indoor air supply fan when the human body is not present in the room.

5. A wind direction control method, a computer-based wind direction control method, having: The intake temperature acquisition step obtains information representing the temperature of the air drawn in from the intake port of the indoor unit of the air conditioning unit installed on the ceiling, i.e., the intake temperature. The radiation temperature acquisition step obtains radiation temperature information representing the temperature of radiant heat from the ground. The ground temperature estimation step estimates the ground temperature based on the radiation temperature information; as well as The airflow control unit controls the airflow adjustment components respectively equipped on the multiple air outlets of the indoor unit. When the difference between the intake temperature and the ground temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, the unit alternately repeats a state between a state in which the airflow from one of the air outlets is directed downwards and the airflow from the remaining air outlets is directed in a direction closer to the horizontal direction, and a state in which all the air outlets are directed downwards at predetermined intervals.

6. A program for performing the following steps, The intake temperature acquisition step obtains information representing the temperature of the air drawn in from the intake port of the indoor unit of the air conditioning unit installed on the ceiling, i.e., the intake temperature. The radiation temperature acquisition step obtains radiation temperature information representing the temperature of radiant heat from the ground. The ground temperature estimation step estimates the ground temperature based on the radiation temperature information; as well as The airflow control unit controls the airflow adjustment components respectively equipped on the multiple air outlets of the indoor unit. When the difference between the intake temperature and the ground temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, the unit alternately repeats a state between a state in which the airflow from one of the air outlets is directed downwards and the airflow from the remaining air outlets is directed in a direction closer to the horizontal direction, and a state in which all the air outlets are directed downwards at predetermined intervals.

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