Information output apparatus, information output system, information output method, and program

Abstract

To clearly notify a customer of the effect of a maintenance work on an air conditioner.SOLUTION: An operation status acquisition unit 101 acquires operation status information indicating data that represents an operation status of an air conditioner. An information output unit 102 outputs, after conducting a maintenance work including at least one of cleaning, inspection, part replacement, and repair on the air conditioner, change data related information which is information on change data that changes with the maintenance work, out of data representing the operation status of the air conditioner.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information output device, an information output system, an information output method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In air conditioners, it is important to clean and inspect parts such as filters, heat exchangers, and fans. Currently, various techniques are known that can be used by workers when performing maintenance work such as cleaning and inspection of air conditioners. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a cleaning device that cleans the indoor unit of an air conditioner.

[0003] The cleaning device described in Patent Document 1 makes it possible to clean the heat exchanger and blower fan of a wall-mounted indoor unit without removing the indoor unit. After cleaning the air conditioner, the worker typically informs the customer that the cleaning is complete. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 3406038 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, simply informing the worker that the cleaning has been completed makes it difficult for the customer to confirm whether the cleaning work has improved the heating or cooling efficiency. As a result, the customer may not be able to grasp the effects of the cleaning work and may be dissatisfied with the cleaning work performed by the worker. Therefore, there is a need for a technology that can clearly inform customers of the effects of maintenance work on air conditioning systems. However, Patent Document 1 does not describe or suggest a technology for informing customers of the effects of maintenance work on air conditioning systems.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide an information output device, an information output system, an information output method, and a program that clearly inform customers of the effects of maintenance work on air conditioning units. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the information output device according to the present disclosure includes: an operating status acquisition means for acquiring operating status information indicating data representing the operating status of the air conditioning device; and an information output means for outputting change data related information, which is information relating to change data, which is data representing the operating status of the air conditioning device that changes due to the maintenance work, after maintenance work including at least one of cleaning, inspection, part replacement, and repair has been performed on the air conditioning device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] In the present disclosure, after maintenance work on an air conditioner, changed data related information, which is information regarding data that changes as a result of the maintenance work out of data that represents the operating status of the air conditioner, is output. Therefore, according to the present disclosure, it is possible to inform customers in an easy-to-understand manner of the effects of the maintenance work on the air conditioner. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram of an information output system according to a first embodiment; [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram of a worker terminal according to the first embodiment; [Figure 3] Indoor unit appearance [Figure 4] 1A and 1B are diagrams showing captured images of a fan provided in an indoor unit, where (A) is a captured image of a lightly soiled fan, and (B) is a captured image of a heavily soiled fan. [Figure 5] Functional configuration diagram of a worker terminal according to the first embodiment [Figure 6] A diagram showing the relationship between elapsed time and temperature difference [Figure 7]10A and 10B are diagrams showing screens displayed on a worker terminal, in which (A) is a screen displaying the temperature difference before work, (B) is a screen displaying the temperature difference after work, (C) is a screen displaying a graph before work, and (D) is a screen displaying a graph after work. [Figure 8] 1 is a flowchart showing a pre-work diagnosis process executed by a worker terminal according to the first embodiment; [Figure 9] 1 is a flowchart showing post-work diagnostic processing executed by the worker terminal according to the first embodiment; [Figure 10] Configuration diagram of an information output system according to a second embodiment [Figure 11] Configuration diagram of an indoor unit according to embodiment 2 [Figure 12] Configuration diagram of a server according to the second embodiment [Figure 13] Functional configuration diagram of a server according to the second embodiment [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing executed by each device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing screens displayed on a worker terminal, in which (A) is a screen displaying the air volume before work, (B) is a screen displaying the air volume after work, (C) is a screen displaying the capacity before work, and (D) is a screen displaying the capacity after work. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing a pre-operation diagnosis process executed by a server according to a second embodiment. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart showing post-work diagnostic processing executed by a server according to a second embodiment. [Figure 18] A sequence diagram showing the flow of processing executed by each device when executing processing for determining a work date and time. [Figure 19] Functional configuration diagram of a server according to the third embodiment [Figure 20] 10 is a flowchart showing a pre-operation diagnosis process executed by a server according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals.

[0011] (Embodiment 1) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an information output system 1000 according to the first embodiment. The information output system 1000 is a system that outputs information related to maintenance work in order to support maintenance work on an air conditioning apparatus 300. The maintenance work is, for example, work that includes at least one of cleaning, inspection, part replacement, and repair. The information related to the maintenance work is, for example, information indicating the content of the maintenance work or information indicating the effect of the maintenance work. As shown in FIG. 1, the information output system 1000 includes a worker terminal 100 and a temperature measuring device 200. The worker terminal 100 and the temperature measuring device 200 are connected to various communication networks and are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other via the various communication networks.

[0012] The worker terminal 100 is a terminal device used by a worker who performs maintenance work on the air conditioning device 300. The worker terminal 100 is, for example, a terminal device that the worker carries when performing maintenance work at the installation site of the air conditioning device 300. The worker terminal 100 communicates with the temperature measuring device 200 via wireless or wired communication. The worker terminal 100 has an operation reception function for receiving various operations, a display function for displaying various information, a communication function for communicating with various devices, and the like. The worker terminal 100 is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a laptop computer, etc. The worker terminal 100 is an example of an information output device. As shown in FIG. 2 , the worker terminal 100 has a control unit 11, a memory unit 12, a display unit 13, an operation reception unit 14, a first communication unit 15, a second communication unit 16, and an imaging unit 17.

[0013] The control unit 11 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), RTC (Real Time Clock), etc. The CPU is also called a central processing unit, central arithmetic unit, processor, microprocessor, microcomputer, DSP (Digital Signal Processor), etc., and functions as a central processing unit that executes processes and calculations related to the control of the worker terminal 100. In the control unit 11, the CPU reads programs and data stored in the ROM and uses the RAM as a work area to perform overall control of the worker terminal 100. The RTC is, for example, an integrated circuit with a timekeeping function. The CPU can identify the current date and time from the time information read from the RTC.

[0014] The storage unit 12 includes a nonvolatile semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, an EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), or an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM), and serves as a so-called auxiliary storage device. The storage unit 12 stores programs and data used by the control unit 11 to execute various processes. The storage unit 12 also stores data generated or acquired by the control unit 11 as a result of executing various processes.

[0015] The display unit 13 displays various images under the control of the control unit 11. For example, the display unit 13 displays a screen for accepting various operations from the worker. The display unit 13 includes a touch screen, a liquid crystal display, etc. The operation accepting unit 14 accepts various operations from the worker and supplies information indicating the contents of the accepted operations to the control unit 11. The operation accepting unit 14 includes a touch screen, a button, a lever, etc.

[0016] The first communication unit 15 communicates with devices connected to various communication networks under the control of the control unit 11. The first communication unit 15 communicates with various devices in accordance with various wireless communication standards. Examples of the various wireless communication standards include Wi-Fi (registered trademark), LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G (4th Generation), and 5G (5th Generation). The first communication unit 15 includes a communication interface that complies with the various communication standards.

[0017] The second communication unit 16 communicates with the temperature measuring device 200 under the control of the control unit 11. The second communication unit 16 communicates with the temperature measuring device 200 in accordance with various wired communication standards or various wireless communication standards. Examples of various wired communication standards include USB (Universal Serial Bus, registered trademark) and Thunderbolt (registered trademark). Examples of various wireless communication standards include Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), and Zigbee (registered trademark). The second communication unit 16 has a communication interface that complies with various communication standards.

[0018] The imaging unit 17 captures images of various imaging targets and generates captured images. The imaging unit 17 includes an image sensor in which imaging elements that detect visible light are arranged one-dimensionally or two-dimensionally. The captured images generated by the imaging unit 17 are stored in the storage unit 12.

[0019] The temperature measuring device 200 measures the temperature of each part of the air conditioning device 300. The temperature measuring device 200 measures the intake temperature and discharge temperature of the air conditioning device 300. The intake temperature is the temperature of air drawn in by the indoor unit 310 provided in the air conditioning device 300. The discharge temperature is the temperature of air blown out by the indoor unit 310 provided in the air conditioning device 300. The temperature measuring device 200 transmits temperature information indicating the measured temperature to the worker terminal 100. In other words, the temperature measuring device 200 has a function to communicate with the worker terminal 100 in accordance with various wired communication standards or various wireless communication standards. The temperature measuring device 200 has a communication interface that complies with various communication standards.

[0020] As shown in Fig. 3, the temperature measuring device 200 may include temperature sensors 201 and 202 attached to various parts of the indoor unit 310. The temperature sensor 201 is attached to an air inlet provided in the indoor unit 310. The temperature sensor 201 measures the intake temperature, which is the temperature of air taken into the indoor unit 310 from the air inlet. The temperature sensor 202 is attached to an air outlet provided in the indoor unit 310. The temperature sensor 201 measures the outlet temperature, which is the temperature of air discharged to the outside of the indoor unit 310 from the air outlet. The temperature sensors 201 and 202 include thermocouples, resistance temperature detectors, thermistors, etc.

[0021] 3 is merely an example and is not limiting. There may be one temperature measuring device 200, or two or more. The temperature measuring device 200 does not have to be inside the indoor unit 310 as long as it has a communication interface compatible with various wireless communication standards and has the function of communicating with the worker terminal 100. If the temperature measuring device 200 is not inside the indoor unit 310, it measures the intake temperature, which is the temperature of air taken into or taken into the indoor unit 310 through an intake port, and the discharge temperature, which is the temperature of air exhausted to the outside of the indoor unit 310 through an outlet.

[0022] The air conditioning apparatus 300 is an apparatus that conditions the air in a space that is the target of air conditioning. Conditioning the air means adjusting the temperature, humidity, air cleanliness, etc. of the air. In this embodiment, the air conditioning apparatus 300 is an apparatus that is installed in a customer's home and is the target of maintenance work. Note that an operator determines the need for maintenance work on the air conditioning apparatus 300, for example, in accordance with a customer request or periodically. If the operator determines that maintenance work is necessary, the operator carries out the maintenance work on the air conditioning apparatus 300 after obtaining permission from the customer. The operator determines the need for maintenance work by referring to information output by the operator terminal 100. The air conditioning apparatus 300 comprises an indoor unit 310 and an outdoor unit 320.

[0023] The indoor unit 310 is a piece of equipment installed indoors that conditions indoor air. The indoor unit 310 blows out conditioned air into the room. The conditioned air is air for conditioning the air in the room, and is basically heated air or cooled air. The heated air is air for heating the room, and has a temperature higher than the temperature of the air in the room. The cooled air is air for cooling the room, and has a temperature lower than the temperature of the air in the room.

[0024] The outdoor unit 320 is a facility device that conditions indoor air and is installed outdoors. The outdoor unit 320 communicates with the indoor unit 310, for example, via a communication line. The outdoor unit 320 circulates refrigerant between the outdoor unit 320 and the indoor unit 310 via refrigerant piping 6. The indoor unit 310 and the outdoor unit 320 condition the indoor air by exchanging heat between the air and the refrigerant.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 3, the indoor unit 310 includes a filter 311, a heat exchanger 312, and a fan 313. The filter 311 is a component that filters the air taken into the indoor unit 310. Filtering the air removes dust, dirt, and the like. The heat exchanger 312 is a component that exchanges heat between the indoor air and the refrigerant. The fan 313 is a component that exhausts air from inside the indoor unit 310 to outside the indoor unit 310. As the fan 313 rotates, conditioned air is exhausted from inside the indoor unit 310 to outside the indoor unit 310. The fan 313 is a line flow fan (registered trademark), a propeller fan, or the like.

[0026] The filter 311, heat exchanger 312, and fan 313 are the main components that are subject to maintenance work on the air conditioning device 300. In other words, the filter 311, heat exchanger 312, and fan 313 are the components that are subject to cleaning, which is the main part of maintenance work. Before carrying out maintenance work, the worker determines whether the filter 311, heat exchanger 312, fan 313, and other components are dirty. If the worker determines that these components are dirty, they will clean or replace them, taking into account the degree of dirt.

[0027] The worker can determine the degree of contamination of these components based on the information output by the worker terminal 100. The worker terminal 100 may estimate the degree of contamination of these components from the temperature difference between the intake temperature measured by the temperature sensor 201 and the discharge temperature measured by the temperature sensor 202, or may estimate the degree of contamination of these components from captured images of these components, or may estimate the degree of contamination of these components from both. FIG. 4 shows captured images of the fan 313. FIG. 4(A) shows a captured image of the fan 313 with little contamination. FIG. 4(B) shows a captured image of the fan 313 with a lot of contamination. The degree of contamination of the fan 313 corresponds to, for example, the amount of dust, dirt, oil, etc. attached to the fan 313. The degree of contamination may be estimated by analyzing the captured image, or may be estimated from the captured image using a trained model obtained by machine learning. An example of determining the work content using the captured image will be described in embodiment 3.

[0028] Next, the functions of the worker terminal 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. The worker terminal 100 functionally comprises a driving status acquisition unit 101, an information output unit 102, a display control unit 103, and a work content determination unit 104. Each of these functions is realized by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. The software and firmware are written as programs and stored in the ROM or storage unit 12. Then, the CPU executes the programs stored in the ROM or storage unit 12 to realize each of these functions.

[0029] The operating status acquisition unit 101 acquires operating status information that indicates data representing the operating status of the air conditioning apparatus 300. In this embodiment, the data representing the operating status of the air conditioning apparatus 300 is the suction temperature and discharge temperature of the air conditioning apparatus 300. Therefore, in this embodiment, the operating status information is information that indicates the suction temperature and discharge temperature. The source from which the operating status information is acquired can be adjusted as appropriate. The source from which the operating status information is acquired may be the temperature measuring device 200 or the air conditioning apparatus 300. In this embodiment, the source from which the operating status information is acquired is the temperature measuring device 200. The operating status acquisition unit 101 is an example of an operating status acquisition means.

[0030] The information output unit 102 outputs change data related information after maintenance work including at least one of cleaning, inspection, part replacement, and repair has been performed on the air conditioning apparatus 300. The change data related information is information related to change data. The change data is data that represents the operating status of the air conditioning apparatus 300 and that changes due to maintenance work. In this embodiment, the change data includes data related to the suction temperature and the discharge temperature.

[0031] Specifically, in this embodiment, the change data includes the temperature difference between the suction temperature and the discharge temperature, and the change over time in the temperature difference between the suction temperature and the discharge temperature. Hereinafter, the temperature difference between the suction temperature and the discharge temperature will be referred to simply as the temperature difference, where appropriate. The change over time in the temperature difference is data corresponding to the correspondence between the time elapsed since the air conditioning apparatus 300 started heating / cooling operation and the temperature difference, and is data corresponding to how the temperature difference changes over the elapsed time. For example, the change over time in the temperature difference is data indicating the temperature difference for each elapsed time. Note that heating / cooling operation is a general term for cooling operation and heating operation.

[0032] The output destination of the variation data related information can be adjusted as appropriate. The output destination of the variation data related information may be each unit included in the worker terminal 100, or may be a device other than the worker terminal 100. In this embodiment, the output destination of the variation data related information is the display control unit 103 included in the worker terminal 100. The information output unit 102 is an example of information output means.

[0033] The display control unit 103 controls the display unit 13 to display various images on the display unit 13. For example, the display control unit 103 causes the display unit 13 to display an image showing the change data related information output by the information output unit 102. The display control unit 103 also causes the display unit 13 to display an image showing the proposed information output by the information output unit 102. In other words, the display unit 13 displays the proposed information output by the information output unit 102. The display unit 13 is an example of a display means.

[0034] The change data-related information may be any information relating to change data. For example, the change data-related information may be information including the value of the change data before the maintenance work and the value of the change data after the maintenance work. For example, if the change data is the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the outlet temperature, the change data-related information is information including the temperature difference before the maintenance work and the temperature difference after the maintenance work. Furthermore, for example, if the change data is the change over time in the temperature difference, the change data-related information is information including a value indicating the change over time in the temperature difference before the maintenance work and a value indicating the change over time in the temperature difference after the maintenance work. Specifically, for example, the change data-related information is information including the temperature difference per elapsed time before the maintenance work and the temperature difference per elapsed time after the maintenance work.

[0035] Alternatively, the change data-related information may be information including a difference between the value of the change data before the maintenance work and the value of the change data after the maintenance work. For example, if the change data is the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the outlet temperature, the change data-related information is information including a difference between the temperature difference before the maintenance work and the temperature difference after the maintenance work. Furthermore, for example, if the change data is a change over time in the temperature difference, the change data-related information is information including a difference between a value indicating how the temperature difference changes over time before the maintenance work and a value indicating how the temperature difference changes over time after the maintenance work. Specifically, for example, the change data-related information is information including a difference between a gradient indicating how the temperature difference increases before the maintenance work and a gradient indicating how the temperature difference increases after the maintenance work.

[0036] If the pre-work temperature difference is outside the reference range, the information output unit 102 outputs suggested information. The pre-work temperature difference is the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the discharge temperature when a specified time has elapsed since the air conditioning device 300 started operating before maintenance work. This operation is a cooling / heating operation. In the following, this embodiment will basically describe an example in which this operation is a cooling operation. The specified time can be adjusted as appropriate. In this embodiment, the specified time is 15 minutes.

[0037] The reference range for cooling operation is different from the reference range for heating operation. The reference range for cooling operation is, for example, 8 to 20 degrees. The reference range for heating operation is, for example, 10 to 30 degrees. In other words, the information output unit 102 outputs suggested information if the pre-operation temperature difference, which is the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the discharge temperature 15 minutes after the air conditioning device 300 starts cooling operation before maintenance work, is less than 8 degrees, or if the pre-operation temperature difference exceeds 20 degrees.

[0038] The reference range shown here is the reference range for the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the discharge temperature after a specified time has elapsed since the start of operation. The specified time is the approximate time until the difference between the room temperature and the set temperature decreases through operation and the air conditioning apparatus 300 enters a period of stable operation. The range of temperature difference indicating normal during a period of stable operation is different from the range of temperature difference indicating normal during a period prior to the period of stable operation. In cooling operation, if there is a heat source in the room, it takes time for the difference between the room temperature and the set temperature to decrease. For this reason, even if the temperature difference during a period prior to the period of stable operation is outside the range indicating normal, the temperature difference during the period of stable operation may fall within the range indicating normal.

[0039] The suggestion information is information that suggests performing maintenance work on the air conditioning apparatus 300. For example, the suggestion information is information indicating that the air conditioning apparatus 300 needs to be cleaned. When the air conditioning apparatus 300 is in a normal state, the temperature difference before work should be within a standard range. For example, when the air conditioning apparatus 300 is operating in cooling mode, the discharge temperature should be 8 to 20 degrees lower than the intake temperature.

[0040] Conversely, if the pre-operation temperature difference is outside the standard range, there is a high possibility that the air conditioner 300 is not in a normal state. For example, if the air conditioner 300 is short of refrigerant, the cooler cannot be cooled sufficiently, and the temperature difference between the discharge temperature and the intake temperature may fall below 8 degrees. Furthermore, if parts of the air conditioner 300, such as the filter 311, heat exchanger 312, and fan 313, are dirty, the airflow may decrease, inhibiting heat exchange, causing the cooler to cool more than necessary, and the discharge temperature may fall more than 20 degrees below the intake temperature.

[0041] Therefore, when the pre-work temperature difference is outside the reference range, the information output unit 102 outputs suggested information to prompt the worker to perform cleaning, inspection, etc. The output destination of the suggested information can be adjusted as appropriate. The output destination of the suggested information may be each unit included in the worker terminal 100, or may be a device other than the worker terminal 100. In this embodiment, the output destination of the suggested information is the display control unit 103 included in the worker terminal 100.

[0042] If the post-work temperature difference is within the standard range, the information output unit 102 outputs change data related information. The post-work temperature difference is the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the discharge temperature when the above-mentioned specified time has elapsed since the air conditioning apparatus 300 started operating after maintenance work. If the post-work temperature difference is within the standard range, it is highly likely that the air conditioning apparatus 300 has returned to a normal state as a result of the maintenance work. Therefore, if the post-work temperature difference is within the standard range, the information output unit 102 outputs change data related information to notify the worker and the customer of the effects of the maintenance work.

[0043] The work content determination unit 104 determines the content of the maintenance work based on the pre-work temperature difference. For example, if the pre-work temperature difference is smaller than the minimum value of the reference range, the work content determination unit 104 includes an inspection of the air conditioning device 300 in the maintenance work content. The information output unit 102 outputs proposed information including the maintenance work content determined by the work content determination unit 104. Here, if there is a shortage of refrigerant or if there is poor refrigerant circulation, the heating and cooling capacity of the air conditioning device 300 will likely decrease, and the temperature of the conditioned air will likely not be able to be sufficiently adjusted. For example, in cooling operation, the discharge temperature will likely not be able to be sufficiently lowered, and the temperature difference between the suction temperature and the discharge temperature will likely be smaller than the minimum value of the reference range. The term "heating and cooling capacity" is a general term that refers to both cooling capacity and heating capacity.

[0044] Furthermore, when protective control is activated, the cooling / heating capacity of the air conditioner 300 decreases, and it is highly likely that the temperature of the conditioned air cannot be adequately adjusted. Protective control is control that suppresses the cooling / heating capacity to protect circuits, components, etc. from excessive control when, for example, a malfunction occurs in the inverter equipped with the compressor and the heating / cooling capacity cannot be fully exerted. In this way, when a refrigerant shortage, poor refrigerant circulation, protective control, etc. occurs, it is highly likely that the temperature difference before work is smaller than the minimum value of the reference range. Therefore, when it is highly likely that such a malfunction has occurred, the work content determination unit 104 determines the work content so that an inspection of the air conditioner 300 is suggested.

[0045] If the pre-work temperature difference is greater than the maximum value of the reference range, the work content determination unit 104 includes cleaning of the air conditioner 300 in the maintenance work content. Here, if the filter 311 or the heat exchanger 312 is dirty and clogged, the amount of air taken into the air conditioner 300 is likely to be restricted, and the temperature of the conditioned air is likely to be adjusted excessively. For example, in cooling operation, the discharge temperature is likely to drop excessively, and the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the discharge temperature is likely to be greater than the maximum value of the reference range. Similarly, if the fan 313 is dirty and the rotation speed of the fan 313 is reduced, the amount of air taken into the air conditioner 300 is likely to be restricted, and the temperature of the conditioned air is likely to be adjusted excessively.

[0046] In this way, when parts such as the filter 311, heat exchanger 312, and fan 313 in the air conditioning device 300 are dirty, there is a high possibility that the pre-work temperature difference will be greater than the maximum value of the reference range. Therefore, when there is a high possibility that these parts are dirty, the work content determination unit 104 determines the work content so that cleaning of the air conditioning device 300 is suggested. In this case, the suggested cleaning may be normal cleaning or full-scale cleaning.

[0047] Normal cleaning is cleaning for removing light dirt. Normal cleaning is, for example, cleaning with a short soaking time in cleaning liquid or cleaning without soaking in cleaning liquid. Full-scale cleaning is cleaning for removing stubborn dirt. Full-scale cleaning is cleaning that requires more time or effort than normal simple cleaning. Full-scale cleaning is, for example, cleaning with a long soaking time in cleaning liquid.

[0048] When the pre-work temperature difference is greater than the maximum value of the reference range, the work content determination unit 104 may determine the work content according to the magnitude of the pre-work temperature difference. For example, when the pre-work temperature difference is slightly greater than the maximum value of the reference range, only full-scale cleaning may be determined as the work content. Furthermore, when the pre-work temperature difference is significantly greater than the maximum value of the reference range, part replacement in addition to full-scale cleaning may be determined as the work content. For example, when the cooling operation is in progress, when the pre-work temperature difference is within the range of 20 to 25 degrees, only full-scale cleaning may be determined as the work content. Furthermore, when the cooling operation is in progress, when the pre-work temperature difference exceeds 25 degrees, part replacement of the filter 311, heat exchanger 312, fan 313, fan motor, etc. may be determined as the work content in addition to full-scale cleaning. The work content determination unit 104 is an example of a work content determination means.

[0049] Next, the correspondence relationship between the time elapsed since the air conditioning apparatus 300 started cooling operation and the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the discharge temperature will be described with reference to Fig. 6. The graph shown in Fig. 6 shows the correspondence relationship between the elapsed time and the temperature difference. The horizontal axis of the graph represents the elapsed time, and the vertical axis of the graph represents the temperature difference.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 6, the temperature difference increases as the elapsed time increases. However, the degree to which the temperature difference increases varies depending on the state of the air conditioning apparatus 300. For example, if the state of the air conditioning apparatus 300 is normal and cleaning and inspection of the air conditioning apparatus 300 is not required, the temperature difference will converge within the standard range as the elapsed time increases. In this case, for example, the temperature difference will converge to a range of 8 degrees or more and 20 degrees or less when 15 minutes have elapsed. In contrast, for example, if the state of the air conditioning apparatus 300 is abnormal and inspection of the air conditioning apparatus 300 is required, the temperature difference will not increase as much even when the elapsed time increases. In this case, for example, the temperature difference will be less than 8 degrees even when 15 minutes have elapsed.

[0051] Furthermore, for example, if the parts of the air conditioning device 300 are dirty and require cleaning of the air conditioning device 300, the temperature difference will increase to a certain extent as time elapses. In this case, for example, even when 15 minutes have elapsed, the temperature difference will be greater than 20 degrees but less than 25 degrees. Furthermore, for example, if the parts of the air conditioning device 300 are highly dirty and require thorough cleaning or part replacement of the parts of the air conditioning device 300, the temperature difference will increase significantly as time elapses. In this case, for example, the temperature difference will exceed 25 degrees even when 15 minutes have elapsed. Therefore, the work content determination unit 104 determines the content of the maintenance work according to the temperature difference when 15 minutes have elapsed, for example.

[0052] For example, in the case of cooling operation, an inspection is determined to be necessary when the temperature difference is less than 8 degrees, which is lower than the minimum value of the reference range. A temperature difference between 8 degrees and 20 degrees, which is within the reference range, is determined to be normal. A temperature difference between 20 degrees and 25 degrees, which is higher than the maximum value of the reference range, is determined to be cleaning 1. Furthermore, when the temperature difference exceeds 25 degrees, which is higher than the maximum value of the reference range by a specified value or more, that is, when the temperature difference is higher than the maximum value of the temperature difference range for cleaning 1 (25 degrees in this embodiment), a cleaning 2 is determined to be necessary. For example, when it is determined that an inspection is necessary, an inspection may be determined as the maintenance work. For example, when it is determined that a normal condition exists, it may be determined that no maintenance work is necessary, or a regular cleaning may be determined as the maintenance work. For example, when it is determined that cleaning 1 is necessary, only a full-scale cleaning may be determined as the maintenance work, or a full-scale cleaning plus minor part replacement may be determined as the maintenance work. For example, when it is determined that cleaning 2 is necessary, it may be determined that a full-scale cleaning plus major part replacement is determined as the maintenance work. Note that, in the case of cooling operation, the specified value is, for example, 5 degrees, which is the difference between 20 degrees and 25 degrees. In the case of heating operation, the specified value is, for example, 15 degrees, which is the difference between 30 degrees and 45 degrees.

[0053] Next, the screens displayed by the worker terminal 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 7. The screens displayed by the worker terminal 100 are broadly divided into a proposed information presentation screen and a change data presentation screen. The proposed information presentation screen is a screen that presents proposed information, and is a screen that is displayed before maintenance work on the air conditioning device 300. The change data presentation screen is a screen that presents change data-related information, and is a screen that is displayed after maintenance work on the air conditioning device 300.

[0054] FIG. 7(A) is a suggested information presentation screen that displays the temperature difference before maintenance work. This screen suggests cleaning the filter as a work item when the filter is highly soiled. Note that the filter is highly soiled because the temperature difference of 18 degrees between the intake temperature of 28 degrees and the discharge temperature of 10 degrees exceeds 20 degrees, the maximum value of the reference range. This screen also presents, as change data, the combination of intake temperature and discharge temperature before the maintenance work and the temperature difference between the intake temperature and discharge temperature before the maintenance work.

[0055] FIG. 7(B) is a change data display screen that displays the temperature difference after maintenance work. This screen notifies the user that the filter is no longer dirty. The fact that the filter is no longer dirty is inferred from the fact that the temperature difference of 11 degrees between the intake temperature of 27 degrees and the discharge temperature of 16 degrees is within the reference range of 8 to 20 degrees. This screen also displays the combination of intake temperature and discharge temperature after maintenance work and the temperature difference between the intake temperature and discharge temperature after maintenance work as change data. This screen also displays the value of the change data before maintenance work in parentheses. This screen further indicates that the temperature difference improved by 7 degrees as a result of the maintenance work, i.e., the difference between the temperature difference before maintenance work and the temperature difference after maintenance work is 7 degrees.

[0056] FIG. 7(C) is a suggested information presentation screen, which displays a graph before the maintenance work. This graph shows the correspondence between the time elapsed since the start of heating and cooling operation and the temperature difference before the maintenance work. This screen is a screen that suggests cleaning the filter as a work item when the filter is very dirty. This screen also presents the change over time of the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the discharge temperature before the maintenance work as change data. Furthermore, this screen indicates that the way the temperature difference changes over time is not normal.

[0057] FIG. 7(D) is a change data presentation screen, which displays a graph after maintenance work. This screen notifies the user that the filter is no longer dirty. This screen also presents the change over time in the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the discharge temperature after maintenance work as change data using a solid line. This screen also presents the change over time in the temperature difference before maintenance work using a dotted line. This screen also shows that the way the temperature difference changes over time has returned to normal as a result of the maintenance work.

[0058] Next, the pre-work diagnosis processing executed by the worker terminal 100 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 8. The pre-work diagnosis processing is executed, for example, when the worker terminal 100 receives an instruction to start the pre-work diagnosis processing from the worker. After issuing the above-mentioned start instruction to the worker terminal 100, the worker instructs the air conditioning device 300 to start cooling operation. Whether the instruction to be issued by the worker terminal 100 corresponds to a reference value for cooling operation or heating operation may be determined by the worker performing an operation on the worker terminal 100 to select either cooling operation or heating operation, or may be determined based on the operating status of the air conditioning device 300.

[0059] First, the control unit 11 included in the worker terminal 100 waits until 10 minutes have passed since the start of cooling operation (step S101). Note that the control unit 11 can consider that cooling operation has started, for example, when it receives an instruction to start pre-work diagnosis processing from the worker. After completing the processing of step S101, the control unit 11 acquires the intake temperature and the discharge temperature (step S102). For example, the control unit 11 acquires temperature information from the temperature measuring device 200, and acquires the intake temperature and the discharge temperature indicated by the temperature information. After completing the processing of step S102, the control unit 11 determines whether the temperature difference is 5 degrees or more (step S103).

[0060] The reason for acquiring the intake temperature and discharge temperature 10 minutes after the start of operation, rather than 15 minutes after the start of operation, is to ensure the smoothest possible cleaning operation. By determining whether there are any problems with the air conditioning device 300 itself in the short time before starting cleaning the air conditioning device 300 and then preparing for the cleaning operation, the cleaning operation time can be shortened. Furthermore, by setting appropriate reference times for each reference time, such as setting a lower reference temperature for determining whether an inspection is necessary after 10 minutes than the reference temperature for determining whether an inspection is necessary after 15 minutes, the need for inspection can be clearly determined and accuracy can be improved. The timing for acquiring the intake temperature and discharge temperature before 15 minutes, which is the estimated time from the start of operation until stable operation, does not have to be 10 minutes after the start of operation; it can also be 5 minutes, 3 minutes, etc.

[0061] If the control unit 11 determines that the temperature difference is 5 degrees or more (step S103: YES), it waits until 15 minutes have passed since the start of cooling operation (step S104). After completing the process of step S104, the control unit 11 acquires the intake temperature and the outlet temperature (step S105). After completing the process of step S105, the control unit 11 determines whether the temperature difference is 8 degrees or more (step S106). If the control unit 11 determines that the temperature difference is not 5 degrees or more (step S103: NO) or if the control unit 11 determines that the temperature difference is not 8 degrees or more (step S106: NO), it determines that the work to be performed is inspection (step S107).

[0062] If the control unit 11 determines that the temperature difference is 8 degrees or more (step S106: YES), it determines whether the temperature difference is 20 degrees or less (step S108). If the control unit 11 determines that the temperature difference is 20 degrees or less (step S108: YES), it determines the work content to be normal cleaning (step S109). If the control unit 11 determines that the temperature difference is not 20 degrees or less (step S108: NO), it determines whether the temperature difference is 25 degrees or less (step S110).

[0063] If the control unit 11 determines that the temperature difference is 25 degrees or less (step S110: YES), it determines the work content to be intensive cleaning 1 (step S111). If the control unit 11 determines that the temperature difference is not 25 degrees or less (step S110: NO), it determines the work content to be intensive cleaning 2 (step S112). Intensive cleaning 1 is maintenance work that is carried out when it is determined that cleaning 1 is required. Intensive cleaning 1 includes, for example, a full-scale cleaning, or a full-scale cleaning and minor part replacement. Intensive cleaning 2 is maintenance work that is carried out when it is determined that cleaning 2 is required. Intensive cleaning 2 includes, for example, a full-scale cleaning and major part replacement.

[0064] When the control unit 11 completes the processing of step S107, step S109, step S111, or step S112, it displays proposed information including the determined work content (step S113). For example, the control unit 11 controls the display unit 13 to display the screen shown in Fig. 7(A) or 7(C). When the control unit 11 completes the processing of step S113, it completes the pre-work diagnosis processing.

[0065] Next, the post-work diagnostic processing executed by the worker terminal 100 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 9. The post-work diagnostic processing is executed, for example, when the worker terminal 100 receives an instruction to start the post-work diagnostic processing from the worker. After the worker performs the maintenance work proposed for the air conditioning device 300, the worker issues the above-mentioned start instruction to the worker terminal 100, and then instructs the air conditioning device 300 to start cooling operation.

[0066] First, the control unit 11 waits until 15 minutes have passed since the start of the cooling operation (step S201). After completing the process of step S201, the control unit 11 acquires the intake temperature and the discharge temperature (step S202). After completing the process of step S202, the control unit 11 calculates the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the discharge temperature (step S203). After completing the process of step S203, the control unit 11 determines whether the temperature difference is within a reference range (step S204).

[0067] When the control unit 11 determines that the temperature difference is within the reference range (step S204: YES), it displays the change data related information (step S205). For example, the control unit 11 controls the display unit 13 to display the screen shown in Fig. 7(B) or 7(D). Note that the worker can inform the customer of the effect of the maintenance work on the air conditioning device 300, for example, by showing the customer the screen displayed on the worker terminal 100.

[0068] When the control unit 11 determines that the temperature difference is not within the reference range (step S204: NO), it displays an error message (step S206). For example, the control unit 11 controls the display unit 13 to display a screen indicating that the maintenance work has not sufficiently removed the dirt. Note that the displayed screen may be, for example, a screen in which an error message has been added to the screen shown in FIG. 7(B) or 7(D). When the control unit 11 completes the processing of step S205 or step S206, it completes the post-work diagnosis processing.

[0069] In this embodiment, after maintenance work is performed, change data related information regarding the change data that is changed by the maintenance work is output and displayed. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to inform the customer of the effects of the maintenance work on the air conditioning apparatus 300 in an easy-to-understand manner.

[0070] In this embodiment, the change data related information includes the value of the change data before the maintenance work and the value of the change data after the maintenance work. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the change data related information includes the difference value between the value of the change data before the maintenance work and the value of the change data after the maintenance work. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the effect of the maintenance work can be clearly notified to the customer.

[0071] In this embodiment, the change data includes data related to the suction temperature and the discharge temperature. Specifically, the change data includes the temperature difference between the suction temperature and the discharge temperature. Alternatively, the change data includes the change over time in the temperature difference between the suction temperature and the discharge temperature. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to notify the customer that the data related to the suction temperature and the discharge temperature has improved as a result of the maintenance work.

[0072] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the pre-work temperature difference is outside the reference range, proposal information is output that proposes performing maintenance work on the air conditioning apparatus 300. Therefore, according to this embodiment, if maintenance work is necessary, it is possible to propose performing the maintenance work.

[0073] It should be noted that when a worker determines the need for cleaning, part replacement, repair, etc. based on the operating status of the air conditioning apparatus 300, there is a possibility that the worker will not make an appropriate judgment. For example, an inexperienced worker may make a mistake in performing necessary maintenance work. As a result, for example, repair, part replacement, etc. may become necessary after cleaning, and the maintenance work may take time. Therefore, in this embodiment, the need for cleaning, part replacement, etc. is automatically determined based on the operating status, including the intake temperature, the discharge temperature, etc., and the necessary maintenance work is presented to the worker. According to this embodiment, appropriate maintenance work is performed, and the occurrence of additional work, additional costs, and extended work time are suppressed, which is expected to improve customer satisfaction, peace of mind, etc.

[0074] In addition, in this embodiment, if the temperature difference after the work is within the reference range, the variation data related information is output. Therefore, according to this embodiment, if the maintenance work has been effective, the effect of the maintenance work can be notified to the customer.

[0075] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the content of the maintenance work is determined based on the pre-work temperature difference. For example, if the pre-work temperature difference is smaller than the minimum value of the reference range, the content of the maintenance work includes inspecting the air conditioning device 300. Furthermore, for example, if the pre-work temperature difference is larger than the maximum value of the reference range, the content of the maintenance work includes cleaning the air conditioning device 300. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the content of the maintenance work can be determined appropriately and easily.

[0076] In addition, in this embodiment, the content of the maintenance work is determined based on the pre-work temperature difference, and if the pre-work temperature difference is lower than the minimum value of the reference range, it is determined that an inspection is required, if the pre-work temperature difference is within the reference range, it is determined that simple cleaning is required, if the pre-work temperature difference is higher than the maximum value of the reference range, it is determined that full cleaning is required, and if the pre-work temperature difference is higher than the maximum value of the reference range by a specified value or more, it is determined that part replacement is required. Therefore, it is possible to inform the customer of the appropriate maintenance work before the maintenance work begins, and to present the time required for the maintenance work, the cost involved, etc., and it is expected that customer satisfaction, peace of mind, etc. will be improved.

[0077] Furthermore, in this embodiment, by checking whether the air conditioning device 300 itself is malfunctioning before the cleaning work begins, it is possible to eliminate unnecessary work. Furthermore, the status can be presented to customers based on data, which is expected to improve customer satisfaction, peace of mind, etc.

[0078] (Embodiment 2) In the first embodiment, an example has been described in which the main functions of the information output system 1000 are provided to the worker terminal 100. In the present embodiment, an example will be described in which the main functions of the information output system 1100 are provided to the server 400. Note that the description of the same configurations and functions as those in the first embodiment will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0079] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of an information output system 1100 according to the second embodiment. The information output system 1100 is a system that outputs information related to maintenance work in order to support maintenance work on an air conditioning apparatus 300. As shown in FIG. 10, the information output system 1100 includes an air conditioning apparatus 300 and a server 400. The air conditioning apparatus 300 and the server 400 are connected to a communication network 600 and are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other via the communication network 600. In addition, an operator terminal 100 and a customer terminal 500 are connected to the communication network 600. The communication network 600 is, for example, the Internet. Note that FIG. 10 does not show routers, base stations, etc. for connecting each device to the communication network 600.

[0080] The worker terminal 100 is a terminal device used by a worker who performs maintenance work on the air conditioning apparatus 300. The worker terminal 100 includes a first communication unit 15 that has the function of connecting to a communication network 600. The air conditioning apparatus 300 is an apparatus that conditions the air in a space that is the target of air conditioning. In this embodiment, the indoor unit 310 included in the air conditioning apparatus 300 has the function of connecting to the communication network 600. As shown in FIG. 11 , the indoor unit 310 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a display unit 33, an operation reception unit 34, a first communication unit 35, a second communication unit 36, and a detection unit 37. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the air conditioning apparatus 300 connected to the communication network 600 is the indoor unit 310, but the air conditioning apparatus 300 connected to the communication network 600 may also be an outdoor unit 320. In this case, the outdoor unit 320 has the same configuration as the indoor unit 310.

[0081] The control unit 31 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, RTC, etc. The CPU is also called a central processing unit, central processing unit, processor, microprocessor, microcomputer, DSP, etc., and functions as a central processing unit that executes processing and calculations related to the control of the indoor unit 310. In the control unit 31, the CPU reads out programs and data stored in the ROM and uses the RAM as a work area to perform overall control of the indoor unit 310.

[0082] The storage unit 32 includes a nonvolatile semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, an EPROM, or an EEPROM, and serves as a so-called auxiliary storage device. The storage unit 32 stores programs and data used by the control unit 31 to execute various processes. The storage unit 32 also stores data generated or acquired by the control unit 31 as a result of executing various processes.

[0083] The display unit 33 displays various images under the control of the control unit 31. For example, the display unit 33 displays a screen for accepting various operations from workers, customers, etc. The display unit 33 includes a touch screen, a liquid crystal display, etc. The operation accepting unit 34 accepts various operations from workers, customers, etc., and supplies information indicating the contents of the accepted operations to the control unit 31. The operation accepting unit 34 includes a touch screen, buttons, levers, etc.

[0084] The first communication unit 35 communicates with devices connected to the communication network 600 via the communication network 600 in accordance with the control of the control unit 31. The first communication unit 35 has a communication interface for connecting the indoor unit 310 to the communication network 600. The second communication unit 36 ​​communicates with the outdoor unit 320 in accordance with the control of the control unit 31. The second communication unit 36 ​​communicates with the outdoor unit 320 in accordance with various wired communication standards or various wireless communication standards. The second communication unit 36 ​​has a communication interface that complies with various communication standards.

[0085] The detection unit 37 detects data representing the operating status of the air conditioning apparatus 300. The detection unit 37 is equipped with sensors that detect each piece of data. For example, the detection unit 37 is equipped with a temperature sensor that detects the intake temperature, a temperature sensor that detects the outlet temperature, a sensor that detects the rotation speed of the fan 313, a sensor that detects the power consumption of the air conditioning apparatus 300, an odor sensor that detects odors inside the air conditioning apparatus 300 or in the air blown out by the air conditioning apparatus 300, etc. The detection unit 37 is an example of an operating status acquisition means.

[0086] The server 400 is a cloud server that provides services related to information output processing. The cloud server is a server that provides resources in cloud computing. As shown in FIG. 12 , the server 400 includes a control unit 41, a storage unit 42, and a communication unit 43.

[0087] The control unit 41 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an RTC, etc. The CPU is also called a central processing unit, a processor, a microprocessor, a microcomputer, a DSP, etc., and functions as a central processing unit that executes processing and calculations related to the control of the server 400. In the control unit 41, the CPU reads out programs and data stored in the ROM and uses the RAM as a work area to perform overall control of the server 400.

[0088] The storage unit 42 includes a nonvolatile semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, an EPROM, or an EEPROM, and serves as a so-called auxiliary storage device. The storage unit 42 stores programs and data used by the control unit 41 to execute various processes. The storage unit 42 also stores data generated or acquired by the control unit 41 as a result of executing various processes.

[0089] The communication unit 43 communicates with devices connected to the communication network 600 via the communication network 600 under the control of the control unit 41. The communication unit 43 includes a communication interface for connecting the server 400 to the communication network 600.

[0090] The customer terminal 500 is a terminal device used by a customer who is the owner of the air conditioning device 300. The configuration of the customer terminal 500 is basically the same as the configuration of the worker terminal 100. Like the worker terminal 100, the customer terminal 500 has a function for connecting to the communication network 600. The customer terminal 500 is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a laptop computer, etc.

[0091] Next, functions of the server 400 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Functionally, the server 400 includes a driving status acquisition unit 401, an information output unit 402, a communication control unit 403, and an operation content determination unit 404. Each of these functions is realized by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. The software and firmware are written as programs and stored in the ROM or storage unit 42. Then, the CPU executes the programs stored in the ROM or storage unit 42 to realize each of these functions.

[0092] The operating status acquisition unit 401 acquires operating status information that indicates data representing the operating status of the air conditioning apparatus 300. The processing executed by the operating status acquisition unit 401 is basically the same as the processing executed by the operating status acquisition unit 101. In this embodiment, the operating status information indicates the intake temperature, the discharge temperature, the volume of air blown out by the air conditioning apparatus 300, the cooling / heating capacity of the air conditioning apparatus 300, the rotation speed of the fan 313 equipped in the air conditioning apparatus 300, the operating state (whether the air conditioning apparatus 300 is operating or not), and the operation type of the air conditioning apparatus 300. The operation type is, for example, whether the air conditioning apparatus 300 is operating in cooling operation, heating operation, or the like. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the change data includes data relating to the intake temperature and discharge temperature, the volume of air blown out by the air conditioning apparatus 300, and the cooling / heating capacity of the air conditioning apparatus 300.

[0093] The volume of air blown out by the air conditioner 300 is the volume of air of the fan 313, and is the volume of conditioned air blown out by the air conditioner 300. The cooling or heating capacity of the air conditioner 300 is the cooling or heating capacity of the air conditioner 300. Hereinafter, the volume of air blown out by the air conditioner 300 will be simply referred to as the air volume, and the cooling or heating capacity of the air conditioner 300 will be simply referred to as the cooling or heating capacity, as appropriate. The source from which the operating status information is obtained can be adjusted as appropriate. In this embodiment, the source from which the operating status information is obtained is the indoor unit 310. The operating status acquisition unit 401 is an example of an operating status acquisition means.

[0094] The information output unit 402 outputs change data related information after maintenance work is performed on the air conditioning device 300. Furthermore, the information output unit 402 outputs suggested information if the pre-work temperature difference is outside the reference range. In other words, the processing performed by the information output unit 402 is basically the same as the processing performed by the information output unit 102. In this embodiment, the change data includes data on the intake temperature and the discharge temperature, as well as air volume and heating / cooling capacity. The output destination of the change data related information can be adjusted as appropriate. In this embodiment, the output destination of the change data related information is the communication control unit 403 provided in the server 400. The information output unit 402 is an example of information output means.

[0095] The communication control unit 403 controls the communication unit 43 to transmit various types of information to devices connected to the communication network 600. For example, the communication control unit 403 transmits the change data-related information output by the information output unit 102 to the worker terminal 100 and the customer terminal 500. The communication control unit 403 also transmits the proposal information output by the information output unit 102 to the worker terminal 100 and the customer terminal 500. Meanwhile, the worker terminal 100 and the customer terminal 500 display the change data-related information or the proposal information received from the server 400 on their screens.

[0096] The work content determination unit 404 determines the content of the maintenance work based on the pre-work temperature difference. For example, if the pre-work temperature difference is smaller than the minimum value of the reference range, the work content determination unit 404 includes inspection of the air conditioning device 300 in the content of the maintenance work. Furthermore, if the pre-work temperature difference is larger than the maximum value of the reference range, the work content determination unit 404 includes cleaning of the air conditioning device 300 in the content of the maintenance work.

[0097] If the pre-work temperature difference is greater than the maximum value of the reference range and the blowing temperature is outside the reference temperature range, the work content determination unit 404 includes parts replacement for the air conditioning device 300 in the content of the maintenance work. The reference temperature range during cooling is different from the reference temperature range during heating. The reference temperature range during cooling is, for example, 10 degrees or less. The reference temperature range during heating is, for example, 50 degrees or more.

[0098] If the discharge temperature is outside the reference temperature range, it is highly likely that protective control is being executed to protect the refrigerant. This protective control is control that suppresses the heating / cooling capacity to prevent the refrigerant from freezing. Here, if the components of the air conditioner 300, such as the filter 311, heat exchanger 312, and fan 313, are extremely dirty, the amount of air taken into the air conditioner 300 is likely to be limited to an extremely small amount, and the temperature of the conditioned air is likely to be adjusted excessively. In other words, if the above components are extremely dirty, it is highly likely that the discharge temperature will be outside the reference temperature range.

[0099] Therefore, if the pre-work temperature difference is greater than the maximum value of the reference range and the blowing temperature is outside the reference temperature range, the work content determination unit 104 includes parts replacement in the maintenance work content. In other words, if it is determined that the heating / cooling capacity of the air conditioner 300 will not be fully restored even if a full cleaning is performed, parts replacement is suggested. Parts to be replaced include the filter 311, heat exchanger 312, fan 313, fan motor, etc.

[0100] When protective control is being executed, the air conditioning apparatus 300 outputs a protection control signal, and information indicating that protective control is being executed is included in the operating status information output by the air conditioning apparatus 300. Therefore, the work content determination unit 104 may include part replacement in the content of the maintenance work on the condition that a protection control signal is being output, instead of the condition that the blowing temperature is outside the reference temperature range.

[0101] Furthermore, if the pre-work temperature difference is greater than the maximum value of the reference range and the rotation speed of the fan 313 is lower than the rotation speed threshold, the work content determination unit 404 includes part replacement for the air conditioning device 300 in the content of the maintenance work. If the fan 313 becomes dirty, a sufficient airflow volume cannot be obtained, so control is executed to increase the rotation speed of the fan motor to obtain a sufficient airflow volume. However, if the rotation speed of the fan motor increases too much, protective control is activated to suppress component failure, heat generation, etc., and the airflow volume decreases. In such a case, it is desirable to replace the fan 313, the fan motor, etc. Therefore, if the rotation speed of the fan 313 is lower than the rotation speed threshold, the work content determination unit 404 includes part replacement in the content of the maintenance work. Note that the rotation speed of the fan 313 corresponds to the rotation speed of the fan motor. Furthermore, the rotation speed threshold is, for example, approximately 80% of the normal rotation speed of the fan 313.

[0102] Next, the flow of processing executed by each device will be described with reference to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing executed by each device according to this embodiment.

[0103] First, in step S1, the worker terminal 100 acquires a diagnosis request from the worker. In step S2, the worker terminal 100 requests a diagnosis from the server 400. In step S3, the server 400 instructs the worker terminal 100 to perform cooling operation. In step S4, the worker terminal 100 instructs the worker terminal 100 to perform cooling operation. For example, the worker terminal 100 displays a screen instructing the worker to perform cooling operation. Meanwhile, in response to checking this screen, the worker instructs the air conditioning device 300 to perform cooling operation.

[0104] In the above example, the worker terminal 100 requests a diagnosis from the server 400 after receiving a diagnosis request from the worker. As an alternative method, the server 400 may periodically request a diagnosis from the air conditioning device 300 without receiving a diagnosis request from the worker, and transmit the diagnosis result to the customer terminal 500 if the temperature difference is outside the reference range. Alternatively, the server 400 may request a diagnosis from the air conditioning device 300 only upon a request from the customer terminal. In these cases, the timing at which the air conditioning device 300 obtains the operating status information may be when the customer changes the operating state of the air conditioning device 300 from OFF to ON after the server 400 requests a diagnosis from the air conditioning device 300. In this case, instructions to perform cooling operation, heating operation, etc. from the worker terminal 100 and the worker are omitted.

[0105] In step S5, the air conditioning device 300 acquires operating status information. In step S6, the air conditioning device 300 transmits the operating status information to the server 400. In step S7, the server 400 diagnoses the necessity of maintenance work and the details of the maintenance work based on the operating status information. In step S8, the server 400 transmits the diagnosis results to the worker terminal 100. In step S9, the worker terminal 100 instructs the worker to perform maintenance work in accordance with the diagnosis results. For example, the worker terminal 100 displays a screen instructing the worker to perform maintenance work. Meanwhile, the worker performs maintenance work on the air conditioning device 300 in response to checking this screen.

[0106] In step S10, the worker terminal 100 requests a diagnosis from the server 400. In step S11, the server 400 instructs the worker terminal 100 to perform cooling operation. In step S12, the worker terminal 100 instructs the worker terminal 100 to perform cooling operation. The worker starts cooling operation in accordance with the instruction. In step S13, the air conditioning device 300 acquires operating status information. In step S14, the air conditioning device 300 transmits the operating status information to the server 400. In step S15, the server 400 diagnoses the state of the air conditioning device 300 after the maintenance work based on the operating status information. In step S16, the server 400 transmits the diagnosis results to the worker terminal 100. In step S17, the worker terminal 100 presents the diagnosis results.

[0107] Next, a screen displayed by the worker terminal 100 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0108] FIG. 15(A) is a proposed information presentation screen that displays the air volume before maintenance work. This screen is a screen that suggests cleaning as a work content when the air volume is low. This screen presents the combination of the intake temperature and the discharge temperature before the maintenance work and the air volume before the maintenance work as change data. Note that when parts such as the filter 311, the heat exchanger 312, and the fan 313 become dirty, the air flow is restricted and the air volume decreases. For this reason, the air volume is change data whose value changes before and after the maintenance work.

[0109] FIG. 15(B) is a change data presentation screen, which displays the air volume after maintenance work. This screen notifies the user that the air volume has recovered. This screen presents the combination of intake temperature and discharge temperature after maintenance work and the air volume after maintenance work as change data. This screen also presents the value of the change data before maintenance work in parentheses. Furthermore, this screen indicates that the air volume has doubled as a result of the maintenance work.

[0110] Figure 15(C) is a suggested information presentation screen that displays the heating and cooling capacity before maintenance work. This screen suggests inspection of each part as work content when the heating and cooling capacity is low. This screen also presents the combination of intake temperature and discharge temperature before the maintenance work and the heating and cooling capacity before the maintenance work as change data. Furthermore, this screen indicates that it is necessary to check for gas leaks and whether the heat exchanger 312 is frozen.

[0111] The cooling / heating capacity can be expressed as the product of the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the discharge temperature and the air volume. Here, when each component becomes dirty, the temperature difference increases and the air volume decreases. However, when each component becomes dirty, the decrease in air volume is thought to be greater than the increase in temperature difference, so the cooling / heating capacity decreases. For this reason, the cooling / heating capacity is variable data whose value changes before and after maintenance work.

[0112] FIG. 15(D) is a change data presentation screen that displays the heating and cooling capacity after maintenance work. This screen notifies the user that the heating and cooling capacity has been restored. This screen presents the combination of the intake temperature and discharge temperature after the maintenance work and the heating and cooling capacity after the maintenance work as change data. This screen also presents the value of the change data before the maintenance work in parentheses. Furthermore, this screen indicates that the heating and cooling capacity has tripled as a result of the maintenance work.

[0113] 15, the rotation speed of the fan 313 may be used as the change data. In this case, for example, the rotation speed of the fan 313 before the maintenance work is presented on the proposal information presentation screen, and the rotation speed of the fan 313 after the maintenance work is presented on the change data presentation screen. Furthermore, the difference between the rotation speed of the fan 313 before the maintenance work and the rotation speed of the fan 313 after the maintenance work may be presented on the change data presentation screen.

[0114] Next, the pre-work diagnosis processing executed by server 400 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 16. The pre-work diagnosis processing is executed, for example, when server 400 receives a request to start pre-work diagnosis processing from worker terminal 100 that has accepted a start instruction for pre-work diagnosis processing from a worker. After issuing the start instruction to worker terminal 100, the worker instructs air conditioning device 300 to start cooling operation.

[0115] First, the control unit 41 included in the server 400 waits until 10 minutes have passed since the start of cooling operation (step S301). Upon completing the processing of step S301, the control unit 41 acquires the intake temperature and the discharge temperature (step S302). For example, the control unit 41 acquires operating status information from the indoor unit 310 and acquires the intake temperature and the discharge temperature indicated by the operating status information. Upon completing the processing of step S302, the control unit 41 determines whether the temperature difference is 5 degrees or more (step S303). If the control unit 41 determines that the temperature difference is not 5 degrees or more (step S303: NO), it determines that the work to be performed is inspection (step S304).

[0116] If the control unit 41 determines that the temperature difference is 5 degrees or more (step S303: YES), it waits until 15 minutes have passed since the start of cooling operation (step S305). After completing the process of step S305, the control unit 41 acquires the intake temperature, the outlet temperature, and other change data (step S306). The other change data includes, for example, the air volume, the heating / cooling capacity, and the rotation speed of the fan 313. After completing the process of step S306, the control unit 41 determines whether the temperature difference is 8 degrees or more and 20 degrees or less (step S307). If the control unit 41 determines that the temperature difference is 8 degrees or more and 20 degrees or less (step S307: YES), it determines the work content to be normal cleaning (step S308).

[0117] If the control unit 41 determines that the temperature difference is not equal to or greater than 8 degrees and equal to or less than 20 degrees (step S307: NO), it determines whether or not a protection control signal is being output (step S309). The control unit 41 can determine whether or not a protection control signal is being output, that is, whether or not protection control is being performed, by, for example, referring to the operating status information received from the air conditioning apparatus 300. If the control unit 41 determines that a protection control signal is not being output (step S309: NO), it determines whether or not the rotation speed of the fan 313 has decreased (step S310). The control unit 41 can determine whether or not the rotation speed of the fan 313 has decreased by, for example, referring to the operating status information received from the air conditioning apparatus 300.

[0118] If the control unit 41 determines that the rotation speed of the fan 313 has not decreased (step S310: NO), it determines the work content to be intensive cleaning 1 (step S311). If the control unit 41 determines that a protection control signal is being output (step S309: YES) or that the rotation speed of the fan 313 has decreased (step S310: YES), it determines the work content to be intensive cleaning 2 (step S312). Intensive cleaning 1 includes, for example, a full-scale cleaning or a full-scale cleaning plus minor part replacement. Intensive cleaning 2 includes, for example, a full-scale cleaning plus major part replacement.

[0119] When the control unit 41 completes the processing of step S304, step S308, step S311, or step S312, it transmits proposed information including the determined work content to the worker terminal 100 (step S313). For example, the control unit 11 controls the first communication unit 15 to transmit the proposed information to the worker terminal 100. Meanwhile, in response to receiving the proposed information, the worker terminal 100 displays, for example, a screen shown in FIG. 15(A) or FIG. 15(C). When the control unit 41 completes the processing of step S313, it completes the pre-work diagnosis processing.

[0120] Next, the post-work diagnostic processing executed by the server 400 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 17. The post-work diagnostic processing is executed, for example, when the server 400 receives a request to start the post-work diagnostic processing from the worker terminal 100 that has accepted an instruction to start the post-work diagnostic processing from the worker. After carrying out the maintenance work proposed for the air conditioning device 300, the worker issues the above-mentioned start instruction to the worker terminal 100, and then instructs the air conditioning device 300 to start cooling operation.

[0121] First, control unit 41 waits until 15 minutes have passed since the start of cooling operation (step S401). After completing the process of step S401, control unit 41 acquires the intake temperature and the discharge temperature (step S402). After completing the process of step S402, control unit 41 calculates the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the discharge temperature (step S403). After completing the process of step S403, control unit 41 determines whether the temperature difference is within a reference range (step S404).

[0122] When the control unit 41 determines that the temperature difference is within the reference range (step S404: YES), it transmits the change data related information to the worker terminal 100 and the customer terminal 500 (step S405). For example, the control unit 41 controls the communication unit 43 to transmit the change data related information to the worker terminal 100 and the customer terminal 500. Meanwhile, when the worker terminal 100 and the customer terminal 500 receive the change data related information, they display the screen shown in FIG. 15(B) or FIG. 15(D). Note that the worker can inform the customer of the effectiveness of the maintenance work by, for example, showing the screen displayed on the worker terminal 100 to the customer. Furthermore, the worker can inform the customer of the effectiveness of the maintenance work by having the customer check the screen displayed on the customer terminal 500.

[0123] When the control unit 41 determines that the temperature difference is not within the reference range (step S404: NO), it transmits an error message to the worker terminal 100 (step S406). For example, the control unit 41 controls the communication unit 43 to transmit an error message to the worker terminal 100 indicating that the maintenance work has not sufficiently removed the dirt. On the other hand, when the worker terminal 100 receives the error message, it displays the error message on its screen. Note that the displayed screen may be, for example, a screen in which an error message has been added to the screen shown in FIG. 15(B) or 15(D). When the control unit 41 completes the processing of step S405 or step S406, it completes the post-work diagnosis processing.

[0124] In this embodiment, after maintenance work is performed, change data related information regarding the change data that is changed by the maintenance work is output and displayed. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to inform the customer of the effects of the maintenance work on the air conditioning apparatus 300 in an easy-to-understand manner.

[0125] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the change data includes the volume of air blown out by the air conditioning apparatus 300 and the heating and cooling capacity of the air conditioning apparatus 300. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to notify the customer that the air volume and heating and cooling capacity have improved as a result of maintenance work.

[0126] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the pre-operation temperature difference is greater than the maximum value of the reference range and the blowing temperature is outside the reference temperature range, the maintenance work will include replacing parts of the air conditioning apparatus 300. Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the pre-operation temperature difference is greater than the maximum value of the reference range and the rotation speed of the fan 313 is lower than the rotation speed threshold, the maintenance work will include replacing parts of the air conditioning apparatus 300. Therefore, according to this embodiment, when part replacement is necessary, it is possible to suggest that part replacement be carried out.

[0127] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the content of the maintenance work is determined based on the pre-work temperature difference. If the pre-work temperature difference is lower than the minimum value of the reference range, it is determined that an inspection is required. If the pre-work temperature difference is within the reference range, it is determined that normal cleaning is required. If the pre-work temperature difference is higher than the maximum value of the reference range, it is determined that intensive cleaning 1 is required. If the pre-work temperature difference is higher than the maximum value of the reference range by a specified value or more, it is determined that intensive cleaning 2 is required. Therefore, it is possible to inform the customer of the appropriate maintenance work before the start of maintenance work, and to determine the appropriate maintenance work before the start of maintenance work. This makes it possible to present the customer with the time required for maintenance work, the cost involved, etc. before the maintenance work begins, which is expected to improve customer satisfaction, peace of mind, etc.

[0128] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the server 400 has the main functions of the information output system 1100. The server 400 may also have a function to receive a request for cleaning or inspection of the air conditioning device 300 from the customer terminal 500, make a decision regarding maintenance work in advance, and arrange the date and time of visiting the customer. Modifications will be described below.

[0129] In this modified example, the server 400 remotely performs a pre-maintenance work judgment in response to a customer request, and determines the date and time to perform the maintenance work based on the results. First, an overview of the flow from a customer order for maintenance work such as cleaning and inspection of the air conditioning device 300 to the completion of the work in this modified example will be described. First, the server 400 receives an order for maintenance work such as cleaning and inspection of the air conditioning device 300 from a customer terminal 500 via the Internet.

[0130] Server 400 is not limited to cleaning air conditioners 300, but is also capable of providing outsourced services such as house cleaning, cooking assistance, and food delivery, as well as collecting information such as recipe information and daily cleaning methods. Customers can use customer terminals 500 via server 400 to search for recipes that best suit their needs from recipe sites other than server 400 (not shown), and collect information about everyday household worries (for example, how to clean rust, how to improve odors in indoor units, etc.), and in this way become aware of the existence of maintenance work such as professional cleaning and inspection of air conditioners 300.

[0131] The server 400 provides a one-stop service that can handle everything from collecting information on various outsourced work, ordering work, deciding on work dates, and making payments, not just maintenance work on the air conditioning device 300. The server 400 also has a system with a database that collects and centrally manages information on home appliances equipped with communication terminals owned by customers.

[0132] This allows information obtained from customers' web page browsing information (e.g., customer preferences, hobbies, etc.), information obtained from customer surveys and word-of-mouth posts (e.g., writing ability, personality traits, etc.), service usage information (e.g., personal information, payment information, air conditioner cleaning dates, etc.), information obtained from recipe searches (e.g., menus, nutrients, etc.), and information readable from the usage history of home appliances owned by the customer (e.g., cooking history and cleaning times for kitchen appliances, air conditioner operation history, error information, etc.) to be managed uniformly for each customer, and various services can be provided by linking each piece of information.

[0133] For example, when repairing an air conditioner 300, a customer typically recognizes an abnormality and places an order for repair, but it is difficult for the customer to accurately communicate the abnormality in the air conditioner 300. The repair technician estimates the cause of the malfunction from vague information provided by the customer (for example, there is a rattling noise, the unit is not cooling properly), and heads to the customer's home with parts and equipment based on the estimate. However, there are cases where the estimated cause of the malfunction differs from the actual cause of the malfunction, necessitating a re-visit.

[0134] On the other hand, the system used when placing an order in the second embodiment can ascertain the state of the air conditioning apparatus 300 (for example, what the actual discharge temperature was, error history, etc.) from cleaning information for the air conditioning apparatus 300 (for example, that maintenance work was carried out one month ago) and information from the temperature measuring device 200 equipped with wireless communication capabilities, and it is possible to relatively accurately estimate the state of the filter 311, the capacity of the air conditioning apparatus 300, etc. For this reason, for example, if the cause is a simple setting error by the customer or insufficient cleaning of the filter 311, it is possible to refrain from unnecessary visits and provide appropriate advice to the customer.

[0135] Furthermore, by ascertaining the state of the air conditioning device 300 (for example, what is the temperature difference between the actual intake temperature and discharge temperature, what is the intake temperature of the outdoor unit 320, etc.) from cleaning information for the customer's air conditioning device 300 (for example, that maintenance work was performed two years ago) and information from a temperature measuring device 200 equipped with wireless communication capabilities, it is possible to estimate the degree of dirtiness of the customer's air conditioning device and, at an appropriate time, send a notification recommending maintenance work or a notification showing tips for maintenance to the customer's pre-registered customer terminal 500. Note that notifications are not limited to the customer's customer terminal 500, and may also be sent from the air conditioning device 300 owned by the customer.

[0136] Not limited to the air conditioning device 300, for example, recipe search information may be used to analyze a customer's preferred tastes and nutrients that are lacking, and advertisements for foods and supplements that suit the customer's preferences may be displayed. Also, recommended recipes using cooking appliances owned by the customer may be proposed to the customer via a mobile device such as a smartphone based on the order history of food delivery, and the recipe information (e.g., heating time, heat setting, etc.) may be sent to a cooking appliance equipped with a communication terminal, simplifying the settings.

[0137] In addition to this, by utilizing information obtained from information terminals such as smartphones and wearable devices owned by customers with their consent, it will be possible to link information including physical and mental information and activity information from exercise information, sleep information, GPS (Global Positioning System) information, vital information, speech information, etc.

[0138] For example, by calculating the calories burned per day from basal metabolic rate calculated from physical information such as age, weight, and height, exercise information, and GPS information, the appropriate calorie intake per meal can be calculated, and recipes with appropriate calories that can be cooked can be suggested based on the food delivery purchase history.

[0139] Furthermore, by providing a one-stop service that covers everything from advertising for foods and supplements that match the customer's presumed preferences, as mentioned above, it is possible to track the customer's vital signs after they actually purchase the products, visualize the effects of the products, and present this information to the advertiser.In addition to advertising, for example, it is possible to track changes in a customer's stress levels after using a cleaning service and use this information for marketing purposes.

[0140] Next, the flow of a customer ordering maintenance work will be described. In the second embodiment, on the website used for ordering, the customer sets the desired date and time of the work from among the available dates (e.g., six days from now) among the dates set by the worker, and places an order for the maintenance work. At this time, a cloud-based artificial intelligence linked to the website may check the status of the customer's air conditioning device 300 based on information in a customer database and automatically create at least one maintenance work plan. In this case, the customer can select a plan that suits them based on the content (e.g., price, work time, work content, effect, etc.) of the at least one automatically created maintenance work plan. Furthermore, because payment can be made for the optimal plan in advance, unnecessary work such as additions, cancellations, and changes on the day of the maintenance work can be reduced.

[0141] However, this maintenance work plan does not have to be created remotely. For example, in the second embodiment, the indoor unit 310 is equipped with the temperature measuring device 200, but if it is not equipped, the worker may visit the customer's home and perform the determination work using the worker terminal 100. In the second embodiment, a case will be described in which the worker visits the customer's home and performs the work using the worker terminal 100.

[0142] Once the customer completes the payment procedure on the website, a technician will visit the customer's home on a preset desired date to perform maintenance work. The technician will use the technician terminal 100 to determine the degree of dirt on the parts. Based on the determination, the technician will explain the work to be carried out to the customer, and after obtaining the customer's consent, the maintenance work will begin.

[0143] Then, when the maintenance work is completed, change data related information regarding the change data that changed before and after the maintenance work is output and displayed on the worker terminal 100. The worker reports the work content and results to the customer based on the content displayed on the worker terminal 100. Then, when all work is completed, the worker leaves the customer's home. The customer is requested to respond to a questionnaire by various notification methods such as email or telephone.

[0144] This embodiment is applicable to a system that remotely determines the necessity and content of maintenance work in accordance with a customer request before the maintenance work is performed, and determines the date and time to perform the maintenance work. The flow of processing executed by each device in such a system will be described below with reference to Fig. 18. Fig. 18 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing executed by each device according to this embodiment.

[0145] First, in step S21, the customer terminal 500 acquires a diagnosis request from the customer. In step S22, the customer terminal 500 requests a diagnosis from the server 400. In step S23, the server 400 instructs the customer terminal 500 to perform cooling operation. In step S24, the customer terminal 500 instructs the customer terminal 500 to perform cooling operation. For example, the customer terminal 500 displays a screen instructing the customer to perform cooling operation. Meanwhile, in response to checking this screen, the customer instructs the air conditioning device 300 to perform cooling operation. Note that in the above example, the customer instructs the air conditioning device 300 to perform cooling operation, but after the customer terminal 500 requests a diagnosis from the server 400 in step S22, the server 400 may instruct the air conditioning device 300 to perform cooling operation in step S23.

[0146] In step S25, the air conditioning device 300 acquires operating status information. In step S26, the air conditioning device 300 transmits the operating status information to the server 400. In step S27, the server 400 diagnoses the necessity of maintenance work and the details of the maintenance work based on the operating status information. In step S28, the server 400 transmits the diagnosis results to the customer terminal 500.

[0147] In step S29, server 400 determines the time required for the maintenance work based on the contents of the diagnosed maintenance work. For example, 60 minutes is allocated for normal cleaning, 90 minutes for intensive cleaning 1, and 180 minutes for intensive cleaning 2. In step S30, server 400 transmits the time allocated for the maintenance work and inquiry information as to whether or not to perform the maintenance work to customer terminal 500. In step S31, customer terminal 500 transmits information indicating whether or not to perform the maintenance work to server 400.

[0148] In step S31, if server 400 receives information from customer terminal 500 indicating that maintenance work will be performed, server 400 checks the schedules of multiple workers and extracts dates and times when the maintenance work can be performed from the schedules of the multiple workers in step S32. For example, if the assigned maintenance work time is 60 minutes, these dates and times could be 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM on June 1 for worker A, 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on June 1 for worker B, and 10:00 PM to 11:00 PM on June 2 for worker C. Note that, for the sake of preparation for the maintenance work, the preferred date and time for the maintenance work is six days or later from the date on which the information for the maintenance work is received from the customer, and a date and time six days or later from the date on which the information for the maintenance work is received from the customer is extracted. Note that this date and time can be changed as needed, and could be day 0 or later if the maintenance work does not require preparation. Also, if server 400 receives information from customer terminal 500 indicating that maintenance work will not be performed in step SX31, the process ends.

[0149] In step S33, the server 400 transmits to the customer terminal 500 the candidate dates and times extracted as candidates for the date and time for performing the maintenance work, and information about the worker who will perform the maintenance work at those candidate dates and times. The worker information may include, for example, the age and gender of worker A. In step S34, the customer terminal 500 requests the selection of a date and time for performing the maintenance work from the candidate dates and times. In step S35, the customer terminal 500 transmits the selected date and time for performing the maintenance work to the server 400. For example, the customer terminal 500 displays a screen presenting candidate dates and times for performing the maintenance work. In response to checking this screen, the customer selects a date and time for performing the maintenance work from the candidate dates and times for performing the maintenance work, and transmits the selected date and time to the server 400.

[0150] In step S36, server 400 transmits the selected maintenance work execution date and time to worker terminal 100 of the worker who will perform the maintenance work on the selected maintenance work execution date and time. In step S37, worker terminal 100 of the worker who will perform the maintenance work on the maintenance work execution date and time transmits information to server 400 responding that it has received the information to perform the maintenance work from server 400. In step S38, server 400 transmits to customer terminal 500 a message that the maintenance work will be performed on the selected, executable maintenance work execution date and time.

[0151] In the above example, the decision to perform maintenance work was made after the customer requested maintenance work, but by periodically acquiring the operating status of the air conditioning device 300, the details of the maintenance work can be stored in advance, and when a customer requests maintenance work, the diagnosis results can be notified based on the information acquired in advance without diagnosing the maintenance work.

[0152] (Embodiment 3) In the second embodiment, an example of determining the work content without using a captured image was described. In the present embodiment, an example of determining the work content using a captured image will be described. Note that the description of the same configurations and functions as those in the first and second embodiments will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0153] Hereinafter, functions of the server 410 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 19. Functionally, the server 410 includes a driving situation acquisition unit 401, an information output unit 402, a communication control unit 403, an operation content determination unit 404, a teacher data acquisition unit 405, a model generation unit 406, and an image acquisition unit 407. Each of these functions is realized by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. The software and firmware are written as programs and stored in the ROM or storage unit 42. Then, the CPU executes the programs stored in the ROM or storage unit 42 to realize each of these functions.

[0154] The training data acquisition unit 405 acquires training data used in machine learning to estimate the degree of dirt inside the air conditioning apparatus 300 from captured images. The training data includes, for example, captured images of the inside of the air conditioning apparatus 300 and a determination result of the degree of dirt for the captured images. The captured images may be captured images obtained by an operator capturing an image of the air conditioning apparatus 300 using the operator terminal 100. Alternatively, the captured images may be captured images obtained by a customer capturing an image of the air conditioning apparatus 300 using the customer terminal 500. The determination result is a result of an operator, analyst, or the like determining the degree of dirt of components such as the filter 311, heat exchanger 312, and fan 313 for each captured image. The source of the training data can be adjusted as appropriate. For example, the source of the training data may be the operator terminal 100.

[0155] The model generation unit 406 generates a trained model for estimating the degree of dirt inside the air conditioning apparatus 300 from the captured image. The learning algorithm used by the model generation unit 406 can be adjusted as appropriate. In this embodiment, the model generation unit 406 generates the trained model through supervised learning using a neural network. In other words, the model generation unit 406 generates the trained model by machine learning using the training data acquired by the training data acquisition unit 405. The model generation unit 406 stores the generated trained model in the storage unit 42.

[0156] The training data includes, for example, a combination of a captured image of a lightly soiled fan 313 as shown in FIG. 4(A) and a determination result indicating that the fan is lightly soiled, and a combination of a captured image of a heavily soiled fan 313 as shown in FIG. 4(B) and a determination result indicating that the fan is heavily soiled. For example, when the outline of the fan 313 is clear, as in the captured image shown in FIG. 4(A), a determination result indicating that the fan is lightly soiled is assigned. Also, when the outline of the fan 313 is unclear, as in the captured image shown in FIG. 4(B), a determination result indicating that the fan is heavily soiled is assigned. By performing machine learning using training data including many such combinations of captured images and determination results, it is possible to generate a highly accurate trained model.

[0157] The image acquisition unit 407 acquires a captured image of the inside of the air conditioning device 300. The captured image is, for example, an image showing components such as the filter 311, the heat exchanger 312, and the fan 313. The image acquisition unit 407 acquires the captured image from, for example, the worker terminal 100 or the customer terminal 500. The image acquisition unit 407 is an example of image acquisition means.

[0158] The work content determination unit 404 determines the content of the maintenance work based on the output result of a trained model acquired by machine learning for estimating the degree of dirt inside the air conditioning device 300 from captured images and the pre-work temperature difference. For example, if the pre-work temperature difference is within a reference range, the work content determination unit 404 determines the work content to be normal cleaning. Also, for example, if the pre-work temperature difference is outside the reference range and the output result of the trained model indicates that there is little dirt, the work content determination unit 404 determines the work content to be intensive cleaning 1. Also, for example, if the pre-work temperature difference is outside the reference range and the output result of the trained model indicates that there is a lot of dirt, the work content determination unit 404 determines the work content to be intensive cleaning 2.

[0159] Next, the pre-work diagnosis processing executed by the server 410 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 20. The pre-work diagnosis processing is executed, for example, when the server 410 receives a request to start the pre-work diagnosis processing from the worker terminal 100 that has accepted an instruction to start the pre-work diagnosis processing from the worker. After issuing the above-mentioned start instruction to the worker terminal 100, the worker instructs the air conditioning device 300 to start cooling operation.

[0160] First, the control unit 41 included in the server 410 waits until 10 minutes have passed since the start of the cooling operation (step S501). After completing the process of step S501, the control unit 41 acquires the intake temperature and the outlet temperature (step S502). After completing the process of step S502, the control unit 41 determines whether the temperature difference is 5 degrees or more (step S503). If the control unit 41 determines that the temperature difference is not 5 degrees or more (step S503: NO), it determines that the work to be performed is inspection (step S504).

[0161] If the control unit 41 determines that the temperature difference is 5 degrees or more (step S503: YES), it waits until 15 minutes have passed since the start of cooling operation (step S505). After completing the process of step S505, the control unit 41 acquires the intake temperature, the outlet temperature, and the captured image (step S506). After completing the process of step S506, the control unit 41 determines whether the temperature difference is 8 degrees or more and 20 degrees or less (step S507). If the control unit 41 determines that the temperature difference is 8 degrees or more and 20 degrees or less (step S507: YES), it determines the work content to be normal cleaning (step S508).

[0162] If the control unit 41 determines that the temperature difference is not equal to or greater than 8 degrees and equal to or less than 20 degrees (step S507: NO), it estimates the internal state of the air conditioning device 300 using the trained model (step S509). For example, the control unit 41 supplies the acquired captured image to the trained model, and estimates the internal state of the air conditioning device 300 from the output of the trained model. The internal state is expressed, for example, as little dirt, much dirt, or very much dirt.

[0163] When the control unit 41 completes the process of step S509, it determines whether the amount of dirt is equal to or greater than a standard (step S510). For example, if it is estimated that there is a very large amount of dirt, the control unit 41 determines that the amount of dirt is equal to or greater than a standard. Also, for example, if it is estimated that there is little or a large amount of dirt, the control unit 41 determines that the amount of dirt is not equal to or greater than a standard.

[0164] If the control unit 41 determines that the dirt is not above the standard level (step S510: NO), it determines the work content to be intensive cleaning 1 (step S511). If the control unit 41 determines that the dirt is above the standard level (step S510: YES), it determines the work content to be intensive cleaning 2 (step S512). When the control unit 41 has completed the processing of step S504, step S508, step S511, or step S512, it sends proposal information including the determined work content to the worker terminal 100 (step S513). When the control unit 41 has completed the processing of step S513, it completes the pre-work diagnosis processing.

[0165] In this embodiment, the content of the maintenance work is determined based on the output result of the trained model and the temperature difference before the work. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to inform each customer of appropriate maintenance work.

[0166] (Variation) Although the embodiments have been described above, modifications and applications in various forms are possible. It is up to the discretion of the individual to adopt any of the configurations, functions, and operations described in the above embodiments. Furthermore, in addition to the above-described configurations, functions, and operations, additional configurations, functions, and operations may be adopted. Furthermore, the configurations, functions, and operations described in the above embodiments can be freely combined.

[0167] In the first embodiment, an example has been described in which the worker terminal 100 acquires operating status information including temperature information from the temperature measuring device 200. The source from which the operating status information is acquired can be adjusted as appropriate. For example, the worker terminal 100 may acquire the operating status information from the air conditioning device 300 via the communication network 600. Alternatively, the worker terminal 100 may acquire the operating status information from the server 400 via the communication network 600. Alternatively, the worker terminal 100 may acquire the operating status information directly from the air conditioning device 300. In this case, for example, a communication device that acquires the operating status information may be provided in the outdoor unit 320 of the air conditioning device 300, and the worker terminal 100 may acquire the operating status information from this communication device via various types of wireless communication.

[0168] In the first embodiment, an example was described in which the data indicated by the operating status information is data related to the suction temperature and the discharge temperature, and the presented change data is data related to the suction temperature and the discharge temperature. In the second embodiment, an example was described in which the data indicated by the operating status information is data related to the suction temperature and the discharge temperature, the air volume, the heating and cooling capacity, and the rotation speed of the fan 313, and the presented change data is data related to the suction temperature and the discharge temperature, the air volume, the heating and cooling capacity, and the rotation speed of the fan 313. In the third embodiment, an example was described in which the data indicated by the operating status information is a captured image that estimates the degree of dirt on parts such as the filter 311, the heat exchanger 312, and the fan 313. The data indicated by the operating status information and the presented change data may be other data.

[0169] For example, the data indicated by the operating status information and the presented change data may be the power consumption of the air conditioning apparatus 300, or the odor of the inside of the air conditioning apparatus 300 or the air blown out by the air conditioning apparatus 300. In this case, for example, the detection unit 37 provided in the air conditioning apparatus 300 includes a sensor that detects the power consumption and a sensor that detects the odor. Alternatively, the information output system may include an odor measuring device that can communicate with the operator terminal 100 or the air conditioning apparatus 300, such as the temperature measuring device 200.

[0170] The method of determining the work content based on the temperature difference between the suction temperature and the discharge temperature can be adjusted as appropriate. For example, in the first embodiment, an example was described in which normal cleaning was determined as the work content when the temperature difference is within a reference range. It may also be determined that no work is necessary when the temperature difference is within the reference range. Also, in the first embodiment, an example was described in which at least full cleaning was determined as the work content when the temperature difference is greater than the maximum value of the reference range. If the temperature difference is greater than the maximum value of the reference range, normal cleaning may also be determined as the work content. Also, in the second embodiment, an example was described in which part replacement was determined as the work content during protection control or when the rotation speed of the fan 313 is reduced. Full cleaning may also be determined as the work content during protection control or when the rotation speed of the fan 313 is reduced.

[0171] In the first to third embodiments, examples have been described in which the necessity of maintenance work and the details of the maintenance work are determined based on the temperature difference between the intake temperature and the discharge temperature before the maintenance work, and the proposed information is output. The necessity of maintenance work and the details of the maintenance work may also be determined based on values ​​of change data other than the temperature difference, and the proposed information may be output.

[0172] For example, if the value of the variation data before the maintenance work is outside the reference range, the information output unit 102 or the information output unit 402 may suggest performing maintenance work on the air conditioning device 300. Examples of variation data include the volume of air blown out by the air conditioning device 300, the heating and cooling capacity of the air conditioning device 300, the rotation speed of the fan 313 equipped in the air conditioning device 300, the odor inside the air conditioning device 300 or of the air blown out by the air conditioning device 300, and the power consumption of the air conditioning device 300. The reference range is the range of normal values ​​for the variation data, and is set for each piece of variation data.

[0173] If the value of the variation data is within the reference range before the maintenance work, the information output unit 102 or the information output unit 402 may suggest performing simple cleaning. On the other hand, if the value of the variation data is outside the reference range before the maintenance work, the information output unit 102 or the information output unit 402 may output suggestion information suggesting performing full-scale cleaning. For example, if the variation data is the volume of air blown out by the air conditioning device 300 and the reference range of the air volume is 15 m 3 / min to 25m 3 / min. In this case, the air volume before maintenance work is 20 m 3 / min, the system outputs a suggestion to perform simple cleaning. On the other hand, if the airflow before maintenance is 10 m 3 / min, a suggestion is output suggesting that a full cleaning be performed.

[0174] Furthermore, if the value of the variation data is different from the reference range by a specified value or more before the maintenance work, the information output unit 102 or the information output unit 402 may output proposal information that proposes replacing parts of the air conditioning device 300. For example, if the reference range of air volume is 15 m 3 / min to 25m 3 / min, and the specified value is 5m 3 / min. In this case, the air volume before maintenance work is 10 m 3 / min or the air volume before maintenance work is less than 30 m 3 / min, suggestion information proposing to replace the part is output. Note that suggestion information proposing to replace the part may be output only when the value of the change data before the maintenance work is smaller than the minimum value of the reference range by a specified value or more, or only when the value of the change data before the maintenance work is larger than the maximum value of the reference range by a specified value or more.

[0175] Furthermore, if the value of the change data before maintenance work is outside the reference range, the information output unit 102 or the information output unit 402 may output proposal information proposing to inspect the air conditioning device 300. For example, if the change data is the heating and cooling capacity of the air conditioning device 300 and the reference range for the heating and cooling capacity is 400 kW to 800 kW, and the heating and cooling capacity of the air conditioning device 300 before maintenance work is 300 kW, proposal information proposing to inspect the air conditioning device 300 may be output.

[0176] Furthermore, if the value of the change data before a specified time has elapsed since the air conditioning apparatus 300 started operating before maintenance work is outside the reference range, the information output unit 102 or the information output unit 402 may output proposal information proposing to perform an inspection of the air conditioning apparatus 300. In other words, if the value of the change data before the air conditioning apparatus 300 reaches a stable state is abnormal, proposal information proposing to perform an inspection may be output.

[0177] Furthermore, if the value of the change data when a specified time has elapsed since the air conditioning apparatus 300 started operating before maintenance work is outside the reference range, the information output unit 102 or the information output unit 402 may output proposal information proposing that maintenance work be performed on the air conditioning apparatus 300. In other words, if the value of the change data when the air conditioning apparatus 300 has reached a stable state is abnormal, proposal information proposing that maintenance work be performed may be output.

[0178] Furthermore, the information output unit 102 or the information output unit 402 may output proposal information proposing to perform simple cleaning if the value of the change data when a specified time has elapsed since the air conditioning apparatus 300 started operating before maintenance work is within a reference range. Furthermore, the information output unit 102 or the information output unit 402 may output proposal information proposing to perform full-scale cleaning if the value of the change data when a specified time has elapsed since the air conditioning apparatus 300 started operating before maintenance work is outside the reference range. In other words, if the value of the change data when the air conditioning apparatus 300 reaches a stable state is normal, proposal information proposing to perform simple cleaning may be output. On the other hand, if the value of the change data when the air conditioning apparatus 300 reaches a stable state is abnormal, proposal information proposing to perform full-scale cleaning may be output.

[0179] In the above-described embodiments, the control unit 11, 41 functions as each unit shown in FIGS. 5, 13, and 18 by the CPU executing a program stored in the ROM or the memory unit 12, 42. However, in the present disclosure, the control unit 11, 41 may be dedicated hardware. Dedicated hardware may be, for example, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or a combination thereof. When the control unit 11, 41 is dedicated hardware, the functions of each unit may be realized by individual hardware, or the functions of each unit may be realized collectively by a single piece of hardware. Furthermore, some of the functions of each unit may be realized by dedicated hardware, and the other functions may be realized by software or firmware. In this manner, the control unit 11, 41 can realize each of the above-described functions by hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0180] By applying an operating program that defines the operation of the worker terminal 100 and servers 400, 410 according to the present disclosure to a computer such as an existing personal computer or information terminal device, it is possible to cause the computer to function as the worker terminal 100 and servers 400, 410 according to the present disclosure. In addition, such a program may be distributed in any manner, and may be distributed by storing it on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disk ROM), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), an MO (Magneto Optical Disk), or a memory card, or may be distributed via a communication network such as the Internet.

[0181] The present disclosure allows various embodiments and modifications without departing from the broad spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments are intended to explain the present disclosure and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. That is, the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the claims, not the embodiments. Various modifications made within the scope of the claims and the meaning of equivalent disclosures are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure. [Industrial Applicability]

[0182] The present disclosure is applicable to information output systems. [Explanation of symbols]

[0183] 11, 31, 41 Control unit, 12, 32, 42 Memory unit, 13, 33 Display unit, 14, 34 Operation reception unit, 15, 35 First communication unit, 16, 36 Second communication unit, 17 Imaging unit, 37 Detection unit, 43 Communication unit, 100 Worker terminal, 101, 401 Operation status acquisition unit, 102, 402 Information output unit, 103 Display control unit, 104, 404 Work content determination unit, 403 Communication control unit, 405 Teacher data acquisition unit, 406 Model generation unit, 407 Image acquisition unit, 200 Temperature measurement device, 201, 202 Temperature sensor, 300 Air conditioner, 310 Indoor unit, 311 Filter, 312 Heat exchanger, 313 Fan, 320 Outdoor unit, 400, 410 Server, 500 Customer terminal, 600 Communication network, 1000,1100 information output system

Claims

1. An operating status acquisition means for acquiring operating status information indicating an operating status of the air conditioning device; an information output means for outputting, before or after maintenance work including at least one of cleaning, inspection, part replacement, and repair is performed on the air conditioning apparatus, change data related information including at least one of a value of change data that changes before and after the maintenance work, or a difference value of the change data, among the operating status information; a display means for displaying the variation data related information output by the information output means, Information output device.

2. The operating status information indicates at least one of an intake temperature, which is the temperature of the air drawn into the air conditioning device, an outlet temperature, which is the temperature of the air blown out by the air conditioning device, an air volume of the air blown out by the air conditioning device, a rotation speed of a fan of the air conditioning device, a cooling / heating capacity, a power consumption, or an odor inside the air conditioning device or of the air blown out by the air conditioning device.

2. The information output device according to claim 1.

3. The operating status information indicates at least the suction temperature and the blowing temperature, The change data includes at least one of a temperature difference between the suction temperature and the blowing temperature, or a time change in the temperature difference. The information output device according to claim 2 .

4. The information output means outputs suggestion information proposing to perform the specified maintenance work on the air conditioning device when the value of the change data before the maintenance work, or the value of the change data when a specified specified time has elapsed since the air conditioning device started operating before the maintenance work, is outside a specified reference range before the maintenance work. The information output device according to claim 3.

5. The change data includes at least a pre-operation temperature difference, which is a temperature difference between the intake temperature and the discharge temperature when a predetermined time has elapsed since the air conditioning device started operating before the maintenance operation, a work content determination means for determining the content of the maintenance work based on the pre-work temperature difference, The information output means outputs the proposed information including the content of the maintenance work determined by the work content determination means.

5. The information output device according to claim 4.

6. the work content determination means, when the value of the change data before the maintenance work or the value of the change data before a predetermined specified time has elapsed since the air conditioning device started operating is outside a predetermined reference range, or when the pre-work temperature difference is smaller than the minimum value of the reference range, includes an inspection of the air conditioning device in the content of the maintenance work; 6. The information output device according to claim 5.

7. the work content determination means, when the pre-work temperature difference is greater than the maximum value of the reference range, includes cleaning of the air conditioning device in the content of the maintenance work; 6. The information output device according to claim 5.

8. The information output means includes: outputting proposal information proposing to perform simple cleaning when a value of the change data before the maintenance work or a value of the change data when a predetermined specified time has elapsed since the air conditioning apparatus started operating is within a predetermined reference range; outputting proposal information proposing to perform a full-scale cleaning when the value of the change data before the maintenance work or the value of the change data when the predetermined specified time has elapsed since the air conditioning device started operating is outside the reference range; 6. The information output device according to claim 5.

9. the work content determination means determines whether or not the content of the maintenance work includes replacement of parts for the air conditioning apparatus when the value of the change data before the maintenance work is different from a predetermined reference range by a specified value or more, when the pre-work temperature difference is greater than the maximum value of the reference range and the blowing temperature is outside the reference temperature range, or when the pre-work temperature difference is greater than the maximum value of the reference range and the fan rotation speed is lower than a predetermined rotation speed threshold value; 6. The information output device according to claim 5.

10. the information output means outputs the change data related information and displays it on the display means when a post-operation temperature difference, which is a temperature difference between the suction temperature and the discharge temperature when the predetermined time has elapsed since the air conditioning apparatus started operating after the maintenance operation, is within the reference range.

10. The information output device according to claim 6.

11. An operating status acquisition means for acquiring operating status information indicating an operating status of the air conditioning device; an information output means for outputting change data related information including at least one of a value of change data that changes before and after a maintenance operation including at least one of cleaning, inspection, part replacement, and repair is performed on the air conditioning apparatus, or a difference value of the change data, among the operating status information, before and after the maintenance operation; a display means for displaying the variation data related information output by the information output means, Information output system.

12. Acquire operating status information indicating an operating status of the air conditioning device; outputting change data related information including at least one of a value of change data that changes before and after a maintenance operation including at least one of cleaning, inspection, part replacement, and repair is performed on the air conditioning apparatus, or a difference value of the change data, among the operating status information; Displaying the output variation data related information. Information output method.

13. Computer, an operating status acquisition means for acquiring operating status information indicating an operating status of the air conditioning device; an information output means for outputting, before or after maintenance work including at least one of cleaning, inspection, part replacement, and repair is performed on the air conditioning apparatus, or variation data related information including at least one of a value of variation data that changes before and after the maintenance work, or a difference value of the variation data, among the operating status information; a display control means for causing a display device to display the variation data related information output by the information output means; program.

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