Air conditioning system

Abstract

To smoothly start a main operation.SOLUTION: An air conditioning system includes: a first acquisition portion for acquiring start information indicating a start time of a main operation of an air conditioning device (1); a second acquisition portion for acquiring related information relating to the main operation indicated by the start information; and control portion (73) performing processing of generating a prediction model to output a future prediction time for start of the main operation, processing of outputting the prediction time by using the prediction model, and processing of making the air conditioning device (1) start a preparation operation before the prediction time point by a prescribed time, on the basis of the start information and the related information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to air conditioning systems. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an air conditioner. The air conditioner described in Patent Document 1 includes a vapor compression refrigerant circuit, an outdoor unit installed outdoors, an indoor unit installed indoors, and a remote controller for operating the indoor unit. The refrigerant circuit is configured by connecting the outdoor unit and the indoor unit via a refrigerant communication pipe. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-188728 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When the air conditioning unit is started by operating the remote controller, it takes time for the various components of the air conditioning unit to be energized and for the air conditioning unit to start up before it can begin cooling operation, heating operation, or other operation (main operation), so it may take some time for the outdoor unit to emit cool air in cooling operation or warm air in heating operation.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioning system that can smoothly start main operation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The air conditioning system of a first aspect includes an air conditioner (1) that conditions an indoor space (I). The air conditioning system includes a first acquisition unit that acquires start information indicating a start time of a main operation of the air conditioner (1), a second acquisition unit that acquires related information related to the main operation indicated by the start information, and, based on the start information and the related information, The above To output the predicted future time when actual operation will begin Forecast and a control unit (73) that performs a process of outputting the predicted time using a measurement model and a process of causing the air conditioning apparatus (1) to start a preparatory operation a predetermined time before the predicted time, wherein the related information includes at least one of information indicating the type of main operation indicated by the start information, information indicating the start month and date of the main operation indicated by the start information, information indicating the start day of the week of the main operation indicated by the start information, information indicating whether the start date of the main operation indicated by the start information is a public holiday, information about an event that was taking place on the start date of the main operation indicated by the start information in a predetermined area where the air conditioning apparatus (1) is installed, information indicating the weather of the predetermined area at the start of the main operation indicated by the start information or within a first predetermined period before and after the start of the main operation, information indicating the temperature of the predetermined area at the start of the main operation indicated by the start information or within a second predetermined period before and after the start of the main operation, and information indicating the humidity of the predetermined area at the start of the main operation indicated by the start information or within a third predetermined period before and after the start of the main operation.

[0007] In the first mode, the main operation can be started smoothly. In a second aspect, the control unit (73) generates the prediction model based on the start information and the related information. In the second aspect, the control unit (73) can generate the prediction model.

[0008] No. 3 In this embodiment, the first or second In this aspect, the preparatory operation includes at least one of a preheating operation of the air conditioner (1), a precooling operation of the air conditioner (1), a dehumidifying operation of a rotor (22) included in the air conditioner (1), a moisture absorbing operation of the rotor (22), a preheating operation of the rotor (22), and a preheating operation of a heater (25) included in the air conditioner (1).

[0009] No. 3In this embodiment, the main operation can be carried out smoothly by carrying out the preparatory operation.

[0010] No. 4 The first aspect is ~One of the third In this aspect, the air conditioner (1) includes a fan (32) that draws air from a room (I) into an indoor unit (30) of the air conditioner (1) and sends the conditioned air into the room (I), and the control unit (73) stops the rotation of the fan (32) during the warm-up operation.

[0011] No. 4 In this embodiment, the fan (32) can prevent the air from flowing from the room (I) into the indoor unit of the air conditioner (1) during the warm-up operation, thereby preventing the air from affecting the warm-up operation. As a result, the warm-up operation and the subsequent air conditioning process during the main operation can be performed effectively.

[0012] No. 5 The first to second aspects are 4 In any one of the above embodiments, the air conditioner (1) includes an air deflector (37) that determines the direction in which conditioned air is sent into the room (I), and the control unit (73) closes the air deflector (37) during the warm-up operation.

[0013] No. 5 In this embodiment, air from the room (I) can be prevented from flowing into the indoor unit of the air conditioner (1) during the preparatory operation, thereby preventing the preparatory operation from being affected by the air. As a result, the preparatory operation and the subsequent air conditioning process by the main operation can be performed effectively.

[0014] No. 6 The first to second aspects are 5 In any one of the above aspects, the control unit (73) energizes the compressor (12) included in the air conditioner (1) during the warm-up operation, but does not drive the compressor (12) to rotate.

[0015] No. 6In this embodiment, noise from the compressor (12) can be suppressed during the warm-up operation.

[0016] No. 7 The first to second aspects are 6 In any one of the above aspects, the air conditioning system includes a display unit (41) that displays the predicted time.

[0017] No. 7 In this embodiment, the user can check the predicted time.

[0018] No. 8 The first to second aspects are 7 In any one of the above aspects, the air conditioning system includes an input unit (42) that receives an instruction to edit the predicted time.

[0019] No. 8 In this aspect, even if the time at which the main operation of the air conditioning system is to start is changed due to a change in the user's schedule, the user can change the predicted time to match the changed start time of the main operation.

[0020] No. 9 The first to second aspects are 8 In any one of the above aspects, the air conditioning system includes an input unit (42) that receives an instruction to set a start time for the warm-up operation of the air conditioning system.

[0021] No. 9 In this embodiment, even if the time at which the main operation of the air conditioning apparatus (1) is to start is changed due to a change in the user's schedule, the user can set the start time of the preheating operation to match the changed start time of the main operation.

[0022] No. 10 The first to second aspects are 9 In any one of the above aspects, if the air conditioning system does not receive an instruction to start a main operation from the start of the preparatory operation until the predicted time, the control unit (73) stops the preparatory operation.

[0023] No.10 In this embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can consume less power.

[0024] No. 11 The first to second aspects are 9 In any one of the above aspects, the control unit (73) outputs a probability that the air conditioning system will receive an instruction to start the main operation at the predicted time, and if the probability is lower than a predetermined value and the air conditioning system has not received an instruction to start the main operation from the start of the preparatory operation until the predicted time, the control unit (73) stops the preparatory operation.

[0025] No. 11 In this embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can consume less power.

[0026] No. 12 The embodiment is 11 In the aspect, the control unit (73) changes the level of the preparatory operation or the length of time for which the preparatory operation is performed depending on the degree of the probability.

[0027] No. 12 In this embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can consume less power. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the overall configuration of an air conditioning apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram showing the refrigerant piping and air flow of the air conditioner. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the air conditioning indoor unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram including the main elements of the air conditioning device. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the state of the second switching damper and the air flow inside the damper casing during air supply operation. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the state of the second switching damper and the air flow inside the damper casing during exhaust operation. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioning system. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram showing a first example of the operation of the air conditioning system. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram showing a second example of the operation of the air conditioning system. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram showing a third example of the operation of the air conditioning system. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram showing a fourth example of the operation of the air conditioning system. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram showing a fifth example of the operation of the air conditioning system. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram showing a sixth example of the operation of the air conditioning system. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a configuration diagram showing refrigerant piping and air flow in a modified example of the air conditioner. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure. Since the drawings are intended to conceptually explain the present disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary to facilitate understanding.

[0030] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0031] (1) Overview of the air conditioning system configuration The air conditioner (1) adjusts the temperature and humidity of air in a room (I). As shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioner (1) has an air conditioning outdoor unit (10) and an air conditioning indoor unit (30). The air conditioning outdoor unit (10) is installed outdoors, and the air conditioning indoor unit (30) is installed indoors (I). The air conditioner (1) is a pair type having one air conditioning indoor unit (30) and one air conditioning outdoor unit (10). The air conditioner (1) has a humidity control unit (20) that is a humidity control element. The air conditioner (1) has the function of humidifying and dehumidifying air. The air conditioner (1) also has the function of ventilating the room (I).

[0032] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the air conditioner (1) has a hose (2), a liquid connection pipe (3), and a gas connection pipe (4). The air conditioning indoor unit (30) and the humidity control unit (20) are connected to each other via the hose (2). The air conditioning indoor unit (30) and the air conditioning outdoor unit (10) are connected to each other via the liquid connection pipe (3) and the gas connection pipe (4). This constitutes an air conditioning element (5) including a refrigerant circuit (R). The refrigerant circuit (R) is filled with a refrigerant. The refrigerant is difluoromethane, although the refrigerant is not limited to difluoromethane. The refrigerant circuit (R) performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle.

[0033] The refrigerant circuit (R) mainly includes a compressor (12), an outdoor heat exchanger (14), an expansion valve (15), a four-way selector valve (16), and an indoor heat exchanger (34).

[0034] The refrigerant circuit (R) operates in a first refrigeration cycle or a second refrigeration cycle depending on the switching of the four-way selector valve (16). The first refrigeration cycle is a refrigeration cycle in which the indoor heat exchanger (34) functions as an evaporator and the outdoor heat exchanger (14) functions as a radiator. The second refrigeration cycle is a refrigeration cycle in which the indoor heat exchanger (34) functions as a radiator and the outdoor heat exchanger (14) functions as an evaporator.

[0035] (2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Air conditioner outdoor unit As shown in Figures 2 and 4, the air conditioner outdoor unit (10) has an outdoor casing (11), a compressor (12), an outdoor fan (13), an outdoor heat exchanger (14), an expansion valve (15), and a four-way switching valve (16).

[0036] A partition plate (18) is provided inside the outdoor casing (11). The partition plate (18) divides the interior of the outdoor casing (11) into a first space (S1) and a second space (S2). The first space (S1) is provided with a compressor (12) and an outdoor heat exchanger (14). Strictly speaking, the first space (S1) is provided with the compressor (12), the outdoor fan (13), the outdoor heat exchanger (14), the expansion valve (15), and the four-way selector valve (16). The outdoor casing (11) is formed with an outdoor air inlet (11a), an outdoor air outlet (11b), a moisture absorption side air inlet (61a), and a moisture absorption side air outlet (61b). The outdoor air inlet (11a) is formed on the rear side of the outdoor casing (11). The outdoor inlet (11a) is an opening for drawing in outdoor air (outdoor air). The outdoor outlet (11b) is formed on the front side of the outdoor casing (11). The outdoor outlet (11b) is an opening for blowing out air that has passed through the outdoor heat exchanger (14). An outdoor air passage (11c) is formed inside the outdoor casing (11) from the outdoor inlet (11a) to the outdoor outlet (11b).

[0037] The compressor (12) draws in and compresses low-pressure gas refrigerant. The compressor (12) is driven by a first motor (M1). The compressor (12) is a variable displacement compressor in which power is supplied to the first motor (M1) from an inverter circuit. The compressor (12) is configured so that its operating capacity can be changed by adjusting the operating frequency (number of rotations) of the first motor (M1). The compressor (12) is a so-called high-pressure dome type compressor, the interior of which is filled with high-pressure refrigerant. When the compressor (12) is operating, heat generated by the compressor (12) is released to the surroundings.

[0038] The outdoor fan (13) is disposed in the outdoor air passage (11c). The outdoor fan (13) is rotated by being driven by the second motor (M2). Air delivered by the outdoor fan (13) is drawn into the outdoor casing (11) through the outdoor air inlet (11a). The air flows through the outdoor air passage (11c) and is blown out of the outdoor casing (11) through the outdoor air outlet (11b). The outdoor fan (13) delivers the outdoor air so that it passes through the outdoor heat exchanger (14).

[0039] The outdoor heat exchanger (14) is disposed in the outdoor air passage (11c) upstream of the outdoor fan (13). In this example, the outdoor heat exchanger (14) is a fin-and-tube heat exchanger. The outdoor heat exchanger (14) exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing therethrough and the outdoor air transported by the outdoor fan (13).

[0040] The expansion valve (15) reduces the pressure of the refrigerant. The expansion valve (15) is an electrically operated expansion valve whose opening is adjustable. The pressure reducing mechanism may be a temperature-sensitive expansion valve, an expander, a capillary tube, or the like. The expansion valve (15) may be connected to the liquid line of the refrigerant circuit (R) and may be provided in the air conditioning indoor unit (30).

[0041] The four-way selector valve (16) has a first port (P1), a second port (P2), a third port (P3), and a fourth port (P4). The first port (P1) is connected to the discharge port of the compressor (12). The second port (P2) is connected to the suction port of the compressor (12). The third port (P3) is connected to the gas end of the outdoor heat exchanger (14). The fourth port (P4) is connected to the gas connection pipe (4).

[0042] The four-way selector valve (16) can be switched between a first state (shown by a solid line in FIG. 2) and a second state (shown by a dashed line in FIG. 2). In the first state, the four-way selector valve (16) connects the first port (P1) to the third port (P3) and connects the second port (P2) to the fourth port (P4). In the second state, the four-way selector valve (16) connects the first port (P1) to the fourth port (P4) and connects the second port (P2) to the third port (P3).

[0043] (2-2) Humidity control unit The humidity control unit (20) is installed outdoors. In this example, the humidity control unit (20) is integrated with the air conditioning outdoor unit (10). The humidity control unit (20) sends humidity-controlled air to the air conditioning indoor unit (30). The humidity control unit (20) includes an outdoor casing (11), a humidity control rotor (22), a first fan (26), a second fan (23), a heater (25), a first switching damper (24), and a second switching damper (29) (see FIG. 5). The outdoor casing (11) is shared by the air conditioning outdoor unit (10) and the humidity control unit (20).

[0044] The outdoor casing (11) defines the second space (S2) described above. The second space (S2) is provided with the humidity control rotor (22) and the heater (25). More specifically, the second space (S2) is provided with the humidity control rotor (22), the first fan (26), the second fan (23), the heater (25), the first switching damper (24), and the second switching damper (29). The outdoor casing (11) is formed with an intake / exhaust port (21a), a connection port (21b), and an outdoor exhaust port (21c). The intake / exhaust port (21a) is an opening through which outdoor air and indoor air circulate. The outdoor casing (11) defines a first passage (27) extending from the intake / exhaust port (21a) to the connection port (21b). A third passageway (62) extending from the moisture absorption side inlet (61a) to the moisture absorption side outlet (61b) is formed inside the outdoor casing (11). A hose (2) is connected to the connection port (21b).

[0045] The first passage (27) is connected to the second passage (28). The second passage (28) extends from the middle of the first passage (27) to the outdoor exhaust port (21c). The inlet end of the second passage (28) is connected to the first passage (27) downstream of the humidity control rotor (22) (strictly speaking, downstream of the first fan (26)). In the first passage (27) and the second passage (28), the downstream is downstream of the direction of air flow during air-supply operation (the direction indicated by the solid arrow in FIG. 2 ), and the upstream is upstream of the direction of air flow during air-supply operation.

[0046] The humidity control rotor (22) is a member through which the air flowing through the first passage (27) passes. The humidity control rotor (22) is an adsorbent that adsorbs moisture in the air. The humidity control rotor (22) is, for example, a disc-shaped humidity control rotor having a honeycomb structure. The humidity control rotor (22) holds an adsorbent made of a hygroscopic polymer material. This hygroscopic polymer material is a type of so-called sorbent. With an adsorbent made of a hygroscopic polymer material, two phenomena occur: water vapor in the air is adsorbed onto the surface of the adsorbent, and water vapor is absorbed into the adsorbent. The adsorbent held by the humidity control rotor (22) may be an inorganic material such as silica gel, zeolite, or alumina. The adsorbent has the property of adsorbing moisture in the air. The moisture absorbent has the property of desorbing the adsorbed moisture when heated.

[0047] The humidity control rotor (22) is rotated by being driven by the third motor (M3). The humidity control rotor (22) has a humidity control region (22A) located in the first passage (27). In the humidity control region (22A), a regeneration operation in which moisture adsorbed in an adsorbent is desorbed into the air, and an adsorption operation in which moisture in the air is adsorbed onto the adsorbent are performed.

[0048] The first fan (26) is disposed in the first passage (27) downstream of the humidity control area (22A). The first fan (26) transports outdoor air so that the outdoor air passes through the humidity control area (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). The first fan (26) is rotated by the driving of the fourth motor (M4). The first fan (26) is configured so that the air volume can be switched between multiple levels by adjusting the rotation speed of the fourth motor (M4).

[0049] The heater (25) is disposed in the first passage (27) upstream of the humidity control region (22A). The heater (25) heats the air flowing through the first passage (27). The heater (25) has a variable output. The temperature of the air passing through the heater (25) changes depending on the output of the heater (25).

[0050] The second fan (23) is disposed in the third passage (62). The second fan (23) is rotated by the sixth motor (M6). The second fan (23) transports outdoor air through the third passage (62). The outdoor air transported by the second fan (23) is sent into the third passage (62) through the moisture absorption-side inlet (61a) and discharged to the outside through the moisture absorption-side outlet (61b). The adsorption region (22C) of the humidity control rotor (22) and the second fan (23) are disposed in the third passage (62) in this order from upstream to downstream of the air flow.

[0051] The first switching damper (24) is provided at a connection portion of the first passage (27) with the second passage (28). The passage switching mechanism may be constituted by a passage switching valve, a shutter, or the like. The first switching damper (24) is switched between a third state (a state indicated by a solid line in FIG. 2 ) and a fourth state (a state indicated by a dashed line in FIG. 2 ). In the third state, the first switching damper (24) connects the first passage (27) with the interior of the hose (2) and blocks the first passage (27) from the second passage (28). In the fourth state, the first switching damper (24) blocks the first passage (27) from the interior of the hose (2) and connects the first passage (27) with the second passage (28). The states of the first switching damper (24) are switched by driving a power source such as a motor.

[0052] The second switching damper (29) is disposed in the first passage (27). As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the second switching damper (29) is disposed in a damper casing (29A). The damper casing (29A) is provided with a space (S31) inside the second switching damper (29), a space (S32) in which the second switching damper (29) is disposed, and a space (S33). The second switching damper (29) is slidably disposed in the space (S32). The damper casing (29A) is provided with a first port (29a) and a second port (29b) that communicate between the space (S32) and the outside of the damper casing (29A). The first port (29a) communicates with the intake / exhaust port (21a) through the first passage (27). The second port (29b) communicates with the connection port (21b) of the outdoor casing (11) for the hose (2) through the first passage (27). The second port (29b) communicates with the outdoor exhaust port (21c) through the first passage (27) and the second passage (28). The damper casing (29A) is provided with a first communication port (29c) and a second communication port (29d) that communicate between the space (S32) and the space (S33). The second switching damper (29) slides within the space (S32) to be switched between a fifth state and a sixth state. As shown in FIG. 5 , the second switching damper (29) in the fifth state has the first port (29a) as an inlet for drawing in air and the second port (29b) as an outlet for discharging air. 6, the second switching damper (29) in the sixth state has the second inlet (29b) as the inlet for drawing in air and the first inlet (29a) as the outlet for discharging air. The state of the second switching damper (29) is switched by driving a power source such as a motor.

[0053] (2-3) Air conditioning indoor unit As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the air conditioning indoor unit (30) is installed in a room (I). The air conditioning indoor unit (30) is a wall-mounted type that is installed on a wall (WL) of a room that forms the room (I). The air conditioning indoor unit (30) includes an indoor casing (31), an indoor fan (32), an air filter (33), an indoor heat exchanger (34), a drain pan (35), and an air direction adjustment unit (36).

[0054] The indoor casing (31) accommodates the indoor fan (32), the air filter (33), the indoor heat exchanger (34), and the drain pan (35). The indoor casing (31) is formed with an indoor air inlet (31a) and an indoor air outlet (31b). The indoor air inlet (31a) is located on the upper side of the indoor casing (31). The indoor air inlet (31a) is an opening for drawing in indoor air. The indoor air outlet (31b) is located on the lower side of the indoor casing (31). The indoor air outlet (31b) is an opening for blowing out air that has undergone heat exchange or air for humidity control. An indoor air passage (31c) extending from the indoor air inlet (31a) to the indoor air outlet (31b) is provided inside the indoor casing (31).

[0055] The indoor fan (32) is disposed approximately in the center of the indoor air passage (31c). The indoor fan (32) is, for example, a cross-flow fan. The indoor fan (32) is rotated by the fifth motor (M5). The indoor fan (32) takes in and transports air from the room (I) into the indoor air passage (31c). The air transported by the indoor fan (32) is sucked into the indoor casing (31) through the indoor air inlet (31a). The air flows through the indoor air passage (31c) and is blown out of the indoor casing (31) through the indoor air outlet (31b).

[0056] The indoor fan (32) transports air from the room (I) so that the air passes through the indoor heat exchanger (34). The air blown out through the indoor air outlet (31b) is supplied to the room (I). The indoor fan (32) is configured so that the air volume can be switched between a plurality of levels by adjusting the rotation speed of the fifth motor (M5).

[0057] The air filter (33) is disposed in the indoor air passage (31c) upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (34). The air filter (33) is attached to the indoor casing (31) so that substantially all of the air supplied to the indoor heat exchanger (34) passes through the air filter (33). The air filter (33) collects dust in the air sucked through the indoor air inlet (31a).

[0058] The indoor heat exchanger (34) is disposed in the indoor air passage (31c) upstream of the indoor fan (32). In this example, the indoor heat exchanger (34) is a fin-and-tube heat exchanger. The indoor heat exchanger (34) exchanges heat between the refrigerant therein and the indoor air (I) transported by the indoor fan (32).

[0059] The drain pans (35) are disposed below the front and rear of the indoor heat exchanger (34). The drain pans (35) receive condensation water generated inside the indoor casing (31) of the air conditioner indoor unit (30). The condensation water generated on the surfaces of the fins of the indoor heat exchanger (34) flows down along the surfaces due to its own weight and is received in the drain pan (35).

[0060] The airflow direction adjustment unit (36) adjusts the direction of air blown out from the indoor air outlet (31b). The airflow direction adjustment unit (36) has a flap (37). The flap (37) is formed in the shape of a long plate extending along the longitudinal direction of the indoor air outlet (31b). The flap (37) is rotated by the drive of a motor. The flap (37) opens and closes the indoor air outlet (31b) as it rotates.

[0061] The flap (37) is configured so that the inclination angle can be changed in stages. In this example, the flap (37) can be adjusted to six positions. These six positions include a closed position and five open positions. The five open positions include the substantially horizontal air outlet position shown in FIG. 3 . The flap (37) in the closed position substantially closes the indoor air outlet (31b). A gap may be formed between the flap (37) in the closed position and the indoor air outlet (31b). As described above, the air conditioning indoor unit (30) is connected to the humidity control unit (20) via the hose (2). The end of the hose (2) connected to the air conditioning indoor unit (30) communicates with the indoor air passage (31c) upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (34). Air sent from the humidity control unit (20) to the air conditioning indoor unit (30) is supplied to the indoor air passage (31c) upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (34) through the hose (2). The air sent from the air conditioner indoor unit (30) to the humidity control unit (20) flows into the hose (2) from a position upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (34) in the indoor air passageway (31c).

[0062] (2-4) Remote controller As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the air conditioner (1) includes a remote controller (40). The remote controller (40) is placed in a position in the room (I) where the user can operate it. The remote controller (40) has a display unit (41) and an input unit (42). The display unit (41) displays predetermined information. The display unit (41) is configured, for example, by a liquid crystal monitor. The predetermined information is information indicating the operating state and set temperature of the air conditioner (1). The input unit (42) accepts input operations from the user to make various settings. The input unit (42) is configured, for example, by a plurality of physical switches. The user can set the operating mode, target temperature, target humidity, etc. of the air conditioner (1) by operating the input unit (42) of the remote controller (40).

[0063] (2-5) Sensor 2 and 4, the air conditioner (1) has a plurality of sensors. The plurality of sensors includes a sensor for the refrigerant and a sensor for the air. The refrigerant sensors include a sensor for detecting the temperature and pressure of a high-pressure refrigerant and a sensor for detecting the temperature and pressure of a low-pressure refrigerant (not shown).

[0064] The air sensors include an outdoor air temperature sensor (51), an outdoor air humidity sensor (52), an indoor air temperature sensor (53), an indoor air humidity sensor (54), and a humidity sensor (55). The outdoor air temperature sensor (51) is provided in the air conditioner outdoor unit (10). The outdoor air temperature sensor (51) detects the temperature of outdoor air. The outdoor air humidity sensor (52) in this example is provided in the third passage (62) and located upstream of the humidity control rotor (22) (for example, near the moisture absorption side inlet (61a)). The outdoor air humidity sensor (52), like the outdoor air temperature sensor (51), may be located near the outdoor inlet (11a) of the outdoor casing (11). The outdoor air humidity sensor (52) detects the humidity of outdoor air. The outdoor air humidity sensor (52) in this example detects the relative humidity of outdoor air, but may also detect the absolute humidity. The room air temperature sensor (53) and the room air humidity sensor (54) are provided in the air conditioner indoor unit (30). The room air temperature sensor (53) detects the temperature of the room air. The room air humidity sensor (54) detects the humidity of the room air. The room air humidity sensor (54) detects the relative humidity of the room air, but may detect the absolute humidity. The humidity sensor (55) in this example is provided in the first passage (27). The humidity sensor (55) is located between the second inlet / outlet (29b) of the second switching damper (29) and the connection port (21b) of the outdoor casing (11). The humidity sensor (55) detects the humidity of the air flowing through the first passage (27). The humidity sensor (55) in this example detects the relative humidity of the air, but may detect the absolute humidity.

[0065] (2-6) Control unit As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the air conditioner (1) has a control unit (C). The control unit (C) controls the operation of the refrigerant circuit (R). The control unit (C) controls the operation of the air conditioning outdoor unit (10), the humidity control unit (20), and the air conditioning indoor unit (30). The control unit (C) includes an outdoor control unit (OC), an indoor control unit (IC), and a remote controller (40). The outdoor control unit (OC) is provided in the air conditioning outdoor unit (10). The indoor control unit (IC) is provided in the air conditioning indoor unit (30). The indoor control unit (IC) and the outdoor control unit (OC) each include an MCU (Micro Control Unit), an electric circuit, and an electronic circuit. The MCU includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a memory, and a communication interface. The memory stores various programs to be executed by the CPU.

[0066] The outdoor control unit (OC) receives the detected values ​​of the outdoor air temperature sensor (51), the outdoor air humidity sensor (52), and the humidity sensor (55).

[0067] The outdoor control unit (OC) is connected to the compressor (12), the outdoor fan (13), the expansion valve (15), and the four-way switching valve (16). The outdoor control unit (OC) outputs control signals for starting and stopping the operation of the air conditioning outdoor unit (10) to the compressor (12), the outdoor fan (13), the expansion valve (15), and the four-way switching valve (16). The outdoor control unit (OC) controls the operating frequency of the first motor (M1) of the compressor (12), the rotation speed of the second motor (M2) of the outdoor fan (13), the state of the four-way switching valve (16), and the opening of the expansion valve (15).

[0068] The outdoor control unit (OC) is further connected to the humidity control rotor (22), the first fan (26), the second fan (23), the heater (25), and the first switching damper (24). The outdoor control unit (OC) outputs control signals for starting and stopping the operation of the humidity control unit (20) to the humidity control rotor (22), the first fan (26), the second fan (23), the heater (25), and the first switching damper (24). The outdoor control unit (OC) controls the rotation speeds of the third motor (M3) of the humidity control rotor (22), the fourth motor (M4) of the first fan (26), and the sixth motor (M6) of the second fan (23), the operation of the humidity control rotor (22) and the first switching damper (24), and the output of the heater (25).

[0069] The indoor control unit (IC) receives the detected values ​​of the indoor air temperature sensor (53) and the indoor air humidity sensor (54).

[0070] The indoor control unit (IC) is connected to the remote controller (40) so as to be able to communicate with the indoor control unit (IC). The indoor control unit (IC) is connected to the indoor fan (32). The indoor control unit (IC) outputs a control signal to the indoor fan (32) for starting and stopping the operation of the air conditioning indoor unit (30). The indoor control unit (IC) controls the rotation speed of a fifth motor (M5) of the indoor fan (32). The indoor control unit (IC) is connected to the outdoor control unit (OC) so as to be able to communicate with the outdoor control unit (OC).

[0071] The remote controller (40) is communicably connected to the indoor control unit (IC). In response to a user's operation on the input unit (42), the remote controller (40) transmits an instruction signal to the indoor control unit (IC) instructing the air conditioner (1) to operate. Upon receiving the instruction signal from the remote controller (40), the indoor control unit (IC) transmits the instruction signal to the outdoor control unit (OC). The indoor control unit (IC) controls the operation of the above-mentioned devices of the air conditioning indoor unit (30) in accordance with the instruction signal. Upon receiving the instruction signal from the indoor control unit (IC), the outdoor control unit (OC) controls the operation of the above-mentioned devices of the air conditioning outdoor unit (10) and the humidity control unit (20).

[0072] (3) Driving behavior The operation modes performed by the air conditioner (1) include cooling operation, heating operation, air supply operation, exhaust operation, dehumidifying operation, humidifying operation, dehumidifying cooling operation, and humidifying heating operation. The control unit (C) causes these operations to be performed based on instruction signals from the remote controller (40).

[0073] (3-1) Cooling operation The cooling operation is an operation in which the indoor air (I) is cooled by the indoor heat exchanger (34) functioning as an evaporator. The humidity control unit (20) is stopped. In the cooling operation, the control unit (C) operates the compressor (12), the outdoor fan (13), and the indoor fan (32). The control unit (C) sets the four-way switching valve (16) to the first state. The control unit (C) appropriately adjusts the opening of the expansion valve (15). In the cooling operation, a first refrigeration cycle is performed in which compressed refrigerant releases heat in the outdoor heat exchanger (14) and evaporates in the indoor heat exchanger (34).

[0074] In the cooling operation, the control unit (C) adjusts the target evaporation temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) so ​​that the indoor temperature detected by the indoor air temperature sensor (53) converges to a set temperature. The control unit (C) controls the rotation speed of the compressor (12) so that the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger (34) converges to the target evaporation temperature. In the cooling operation, air transported by the indoor fan (32) is cooled as it passes through the indoor heat exchanger (34). The air cooled by the indoor heat exchanger (34) is supplied to the room (I) through the indoor outlet (31b) of the air conditioner indoor unit (30).

[0075] (3-2) Heating operation The heating operation is an operation in which the indoor air (I) is heated by the indoor heat exchanger (34) functioning as a radiator. The humidity control unit (20) is stopped. In the heating operation, the control unit (C) operates the compressor (12), the outdoor fan (13), and the indoor fan (32). The control unit (C) sets the four-way selector valve (16) to the second state. The control unit (C) appropriately adjusts the opening of the expansion valve (15). In the heating operation, a second refrigeration cycle is performed in which refrigerant compressed by the compressor (12) releases heat in the indoor heat exchanger (34) and evaporates in the outdoor heat exchanger (14).

[0076] In the heating operation, the control unit (C) adjusts the target condensing temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) so ​​that the indoor temperature detected by the indoor air temperature sensor (53) converges to a set temperature. The control unit (C) controls the rotation speed of the compressor (12) so that the condensing temperature of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger (34) converges to the target condensing temperature. In the heating operation, air transported by the indoor fan (32) is heated as it passes through the indoor heat exchanger (34). The air heated in the indoor heat exchanger (34) is supplied to the room (I) through the indoor outlet (31b) of the air conditioning indoor unit (30).

[0077] (3-3) Air supply operation The air supplying operation is an operation for supplying outdoor air to the room (I). In the air supplying operation, outdoor air is sent to the air conditioner indoor unit (30) through the hose (2), as indicated by the solid arrow in FIG. 2. In the air supplying operation, the control unit (C) stops the heater (25), the humidity control rotor (22), and the second fan (23), and operates the first fan (26). The control unit (C) sets the first switching damper (24) to the third state (the state indicated by the solid line in FIG. 2) and sets the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state (see FIG. 5). In the air supplying operation, outdoor air transported by the first fan (26) is sent to the air conditioner indoor unit (30) through the hose (2) and supplied to the room (I) through the indoor air outlet (31b) of the air conditioner indoor unit (30). The air supplying operation may be performed simultaneously with the cooling operation or the heating operation.

[0078] (3-4) Exhaust operation The exhaust operation is an operation in which room air is exhausted to the outside of the room. In the exhaust operation, as shown by the dashed arrow in FIG. 2, room air is sent to the humidity control unit (20) through the hose (2). In the exhaust operation, the control unit (C) stops the heater (25), the humidity control rotor (22), and the second fan (23), and operates the first fan (26). The control unit (C) sets the first switching damper (24) to the third state (the state shown by the solid line in FIG. 2) and sets the second switching damper (29) to the sixth state (see FIG. 6). In the exhaust operation, room air transported by the first fan (26) is sent to the humidity control unit (20) through the hose (2) and exhausted to the outside of the room through the intake / exhaust port (21a) of the humidity control unit (20). The exhaust operation may be performed simultaneously with the cooling operation or the heating operation.

[0079] (3-5) Dehumidification operation In the dehumidification operation, air dehumidified by the humidity control unit (20) is supplied to the room (I). In the dehumidification operation, air dehumidified by the humidity control unit (20) is intermittently supplied to the room (I). The humidity control unit (20) alternately performs a first operation and a second operation. In the first operation, moisture in the air is adsorbed by the humidity control rotor (22) and the air dehumidified by the humidity control rotor (22) is supplied to the room (I). In the second operation, the humidity control rotor (22) is regenerated and the air used for the regeneration is discharged to the outside of the room.

[0080] Specifically, in the first operation, the control unit (C) operates the first fan (26), stops the second fan (23), stops the heater (25), sets the first switching damper (24) to the third state (the state indicated by the solid line in FIG. 2), and sets the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state (see FIG. 5). The air transported by the first fan (26) flows through the first passage (27) and passes through the humidity control region (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the humidity control region (22A), moisture in the air is adsorbed by an adsorbent. The air dehumidified in the humidity control region (22A) is sent to the air conditioning indoor unit (30) through the hose (2) and supplied to the room (I) through the indoor air outlet (31b) of the air conditioning indoor unit (30).

[0081] In the second operation (regeneration process of the humidity control rotor (22)), the control unit (C) operates the first fan (26) and the heater (25), stops the second fan (23), sets the first switching damper (24) to the fourth state (the state indicated by the dashed line in FIG. 2 ), and sets the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state (see FIG. 5 ). The air transported by the first fan (26) flows through the first passage (27), is heated by the heater (25), and then flows through the humidity control region (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the humidity control region (22A), the adsorbent is regenerated. Specifically, moisture adsorbed by the adsorbent is desorbed and released into the air. The air used to regenerate the humidity control rotor (22) flows from the first passage (27) to the second passage (28) and is discharged to the outside of the room, as indicated by the solid arrows in FIG. 2 .

[0082] (3-6) Humidification operation In the humidification operation, air humidified by the humidity control unit (20) is supplied to the room (I). In the humidification operation, air humidified by the humidity control unit (20) is continuously supplied to the room (I). The control unit (C) operates the first fan (26) and the second fan (23), drives the humidity control rotor (22) to rotate, and turns on the heater (25). The control unit (C) sets the first switching damper (24) to the third state and the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state.

[0083] The outdoor air flowing through the third passages (62) flows through the adsorption region (22C) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the adsorption region (22C), moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The air that has absorbed moisture from the humidity control rotor (22) is discharged to the outside of the room through the third passages (62).

[0084] At the same time, the outdoor air flowing through the first passage (27) is heated by the heater (25) and then flows through the humidity control region (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the humidity control region (22A), moisture desorbed from the adsorbent is released into the air. The air humidified by the humidity control rotor (22) is sent to the air conditioner indoor unit (30) through the hose (2) and supplied to the room (I) through the indoor air outlet (31b) of the air conditioner indoor unit (30).

[0085] (3-7) Dehumidifying and cooling operation In the dehumidifying and cooling operation, the cooling operation and the dehumidifying operation are performed simultaneously. Specifically, the air is dehumidified by the humidity control unit (20) and cooled by the indoor heat exchanger (34) functioning as an evaporator.

[0086] (3-8) Humidifying and heating operation In the humidification heating operation, the above-described heating operation and humidification operation are performed simultaneously. Specifically, the air is humidified by the humidity control unit (20) and heated by the indoor heat exchanger (34) functioning as a radiator.

[0087] (4) Main operation and preparatory operation In this embodiment, the air conditioner (1) performs a main operation and a preparatory operation.

[0088] The main operation refers to an operation mode of the air conditioner (1) that conditions the air in the room (I). The main operation of the air conditioning system (100) includes at least one of a cooling operation, a heating operation, a humidifying operation, a dehumidifying operation, an air supply operation, and an exhaust operation.

[0089] The preparatory operation is performed before the main operation. The preparatory operation includes at least one of a preheating operation of the air conditioner (1), a precooling operation of the air conditioner (1), a dehumidifying operation of the humidity control rotor (22) included in the air conditioner (1) (the second operation described above), a moisture absorption operation of the humidity control rotor (22) (the third operation described below), a preheating operation of the humidity control rotor (22), and a preheating operation of the heater (25) included in the humidity control rotor (22). By performing the preparatory operation before the main operation, the air conditioning process by the main operation can be started promptly.

[0090] (5) Air conditioning system As shown in FIG. 7, the air conditioning system (100) includes an air conditioner (1) and a server (70). The air conditioner (1) includes a communication unit (60). The communication unit (60) includes a communication module such as a LAN board. The communication unit (60) communicates with the server (70) via a network such as the Internet. The communication unit (60) may be provided in any of the air conditioner outdoor unit (10), the air conditioner indoor unit (30), and the remote controller (40) of the air conditioner (1).

[0091] The server (70) includes a communication unit (71), a storage unit (72), and a control unit (73). The communication unit (71) includes a communication module such as a LAN board. The communication unit (71) communicates with the air conditioner (1) via a network such as the Internet. The storage unit (72) includes a main storage device such as a flash memory, a ROM, and a RAM, and may further include an auxiliary storage device. The storage unit (72) stores various computer programs executed by the control unit (73). The control unit (73) includes a processor such as a CPU and an MPU. The control unit (73) controls each element of the server (70) by executing the computer programs stored in the storage unit (72). The server (70) may be a dedicated server, a VPS (Virtual Private Server), or a cloud server distributed over the Internet.

[0092] The storage unit (72) stores the prediction model and information indicating the predicted time.

[0093] The prediction model is a model for outputting a predicted future time at which the air conditioner (1) will start regular operation.

[0094] The control unit (73) has a function of generating a prediction model based on the start information and the related information.

[0095] The start information indicates the start time of the main operation of the air conditioner 1. The air conditioner 1 starts the main operation when, for example, an instruction to start the main operation is input from the input unit 42 of the remote controller 40 (see FIG. 4 ), or when an instruction to reserve the main operation is input from the input unit 42, the air conditioner 1 starts the main operation at the reserved time.

[0096] When an instruction to start the main operation is input from the input unit (42), a first signal indicating that the instruction to start the main operation has been received is transmitted from the communication unit (60) of the air conditioner (1) to the communication unit (71) of the server (70). The control unit (73) of the server (70) has a timer function, defines the time at which the communication unit (71) receives the first signal as start information, and stores the time in the storage unit (72). The control unit (73) may obtain time information at the time of reception of the first signal from an external server connected to the Internet via the communication unit (71).

[0097] When an instruction to reserve the main operation and a reserved time to start the main operation are input from the input unit (42), a second signal indicating the reserved time is transmitted from the communication unit (60) of the air conditioner (1) to the communication unit (71) of the server (70). Upon receiving the second signal, the control unit (73) of the server (70) defines the reserved time indicated by the second signal as start information and stores it in the memory unit (72). The communication unit (71) and the control unit (73) are examples of a first acquisition unit.

[0098] The related information is information related to the main operation indicated by the start information, and includes at least one of first information, second information, third information, fourth information, fifth information, sixth information, seventh information, and eighth information.

[0099] The first information is information indicating the type of main operation indicated by the start information. The types of main operation include at least one of cooling operation, heating operation, humidifying operation, dehumidifying operation, air supply operation, and exhaust operation. The first information (information indicating the type of main operation) is input from the input unit (42) of the remote controller (40) and transmitted from the communication unit (60) of the air conditioner (1) to the communication unit (71) of the server (70).

[0100] The second information is information indicating the start date of the main operation indicated by the start information. The third information is information indicating the start day of the week of the main operation indicated by the start information. The fourth information is information indicating whether the start date of the main operation indicated by the start information is a public holiday. The fifth information is information regarding events that were taking place in the specified region where the air conditioning apparatus (1) is installed on the start date of the main operation indicated by the start information. The sixth information is information indicating the weather in the specified region at the start of the main operation indicated by the start information or within a first specified period before and after the start date. The seventh information is information indicating the temperature in the specified region at the start of the main operation indicated by the start information or within a second specified period before and after the start date. The eighth information is information indicating the humidity in the specified region at the start of the main operation indicated by the start information or within a third specified period before and after the start date. The first specified period, the second specified period, and the third specified period may be periods of the same length or may be periods of different lengths.

[0101] The control unit (73) acquires each of the second to eighth information from, for example, an external server connected to the Internet via the communication unit (71). In the seventh information, the information indicating the temperature of the predetermined area may be the detected value of the outside air temperature sensor (51) or the detected value of the inside air temperature sensor (53) (see FIG. 4). In the eighth information, the information indicating the humidity of the predetermined area may be the detected value of the outside air humidity sensor (52) or the detected value of the inside air humidity sensor (54) (see FIG. 4). The communication unit (71) and the control unit (73) are examples of a second acquisition unit.

[0102] The method by which the control unit 73 generates the prediction model is not particularly limited. The control unit 73 generates the prediction model using AI (Artificial Intelligence). One example of a method by which the AI ​​generates the prediction model is a machine learning method (deep learning) using a multi-layer artificial neural network.

[0103] The control unit (73) uses the start information and related information as input data and generates, as a prediction model, a trained model that has learned the correspondence between the start information and related information and the predicted future time at which the main operation will start. When the input data is input, the prediction model outputs output data. The input data includes the start information and related information acquired up to the present time. The output data includes information indicating the predicted future time at which the main operation will start.

[0104] The control unit (73) may generate the prediction model by statistical analysis. In this case, the control unit (73) generates the prediction model by, for example, statistically calculating a predicted future time at which the main operation will start based on start information and related information previously acquired. Statistical calculation means, for example, calculating the mode, median, or average of multiple start times of the main operation indicated by the start information and related information previously acquired by the control unit (73).

[0105] When the related information that is input data includes the first information (information indicating the type of main operation), the output data includes not only information indicating the predicted time but also information indicating the type of main operation to be performed at the predicted time. In this case, not only the predicted time when the main operation will start but also the type of main operation to be performed at the predicted time is predicted.

[0106] When the related information, which is input data, includes the second information (information indicating the start date of the main operation), the predicted time included in the output data specifies not only the time but also the date. In this case, the predicted time at which the main operation will start will be the time specified in the output data on the specific date specified in the output data. In other words, the predicted time specifies not only the time at which the main operation will start but also the date.

[0107] If the related information, which is input data, includes the third information (information indicating the start day of the week of the main operation), the predicted time included in the output data specifies not only the time but also the day of the week. In this case, the predicted time is the time specified in the output data on the specific day of the week specified in the output data. In other words, the predicted time specifies not only the time but also the day of the week when the main operation will start.

[0108] If the related information, which is input data, includes the fourth information (information indicating whether or not a holiday falls on a national holiday), the predicted time included in the output data will specify not only the time but also the date related to the national holiday. In this case, the predicted time will be the time specified in the output data on the specific date specified in the output data. In other words, the predicted time specifies not only the time when the actual operation will start but also the date (the date that falls on a national holiday).

[0109] If the related information, which is input data, includes the fifth information (information related to an event), the predicted time included in the output data specifies not only the time but also the date related to the event. In this case, the predicted time is the time specified in the output data at the specific date specified in the output data. In other words, the predicted time specifies not only the time when the actual operation will start but also the date (the date on which the event will occur).

[0110] If the related information that is input data includes the sixth information (information indicating the weather), the predicted time included in the output data specifies not only the time but also the weather. In this case, the predicted time is the time specified in the output data when the weather in a specific area will be the specified weather specified in the output data.

[0111] If the related information, which is input data, includes the seventh information (information indicating temperature), the predicted time included in the output data specifies not only the time but also the temperature. In this case, the predicted time is the time specified in the output data when the temperature in a specific area will reach the specified temperature specified in the output data. The specified temperature does not need to be a fixed value, but may be a value within a range with upper and lower limits. The specified temperature is, for example, a value within the temperature indicated in the related information ±α.

[0112] If the related information, which is input data, includes the eighth information (information indicating humidity), the predicted time included in the output data specifies not only the time but also the humidity. In this case, the predicted time is the time specified in the output data when the humidity in a specific area will reach the specified humidity specified in the output data. The specified humidity does not need to be a constant value, but may be a value within a range with upper and lower limits. The specified humidity is, for example, a value within the humidity indicated in the related information ±α.

[0113] (6) First example of air conditioning system operation 4, 7, and 8, in step S10, the control unit (73) determines whether or not it is a predetermined time before the predicted time. If it is determined that it is a predetermined time before the predicted time (Yes in step S10), the process proceeds to step S20. If it is determined that it is not a predetermined time before the predicted time (No in step S10), the process shown in step S10 is repeated.

[0114] In step S20, the control unit (73) transmits a signal indicating an instruction to start the warm-up operation to the air conditioner (1) via the communication unit (71). As a result, the control unit (C) of the air conditioner (1) starts the warm-up operation of the air conditioner (1).

[0115] In step S30, the control unit (73) determines whether the air conditioner (1) has received an instruction to start the main operation. When the instruction to start the main operation is input through the input unit (42) of the remote controller (40), it is transmitted from the communication unit (60) of the air conditioner (1) to the communication unit (71) of the server (70).

[0116] If it is determined that the air conditioner (1) has received an instruction to start the main operation (Yes in step S30), the process proceeds to step S40. If it is determined that the air conditioner (1) has not received an instruction to start the main operation (No in step S30), the process shown in step S30 is repeated, thereby continuing the preparatory operation.

[0117] In step S40, the control unit (73) transmits a signal indicating an instruction to stop the preparatory operation to the air conditioner (1) via the communication unit (71). As a result, the control unit (C) of the air conditioner (1) stops the preparatory operation of the air conditioner (1).

[0118] (7) Effects As described above, the control unit (73) outputs the predicted future time at which the main operation will be started, and causes the air conditioner (1) to start the preparatory operation a predetermined time before the predicted time. As a result, the preparatory operation is performed in accordance with the predicted time at which the main operation will be started, and therefore, when an instruction to start the main operation is received from the user, the air conditioner (1) can be operated smoothly so as to perform the main operation. As a result, the main operation can be started smoothly, and the comfort of the user can be improved.

[0119] (8) Second example of air conditioning system operation As shown in FIGS. 4, 7 and 9, the second example differs from the first example in that when the process shown in step S20 ends, the process proceeds to step S21.

[0120] In step S21, the control unit (73) transmits, via the communication unit (71), to the air conditioner (1), a signal instructing the air conditioner (1) to stop rotation of the indoor fan (32) (e.g., a command for a rotation speed of 0 rps), or does not transmit a start command. As a result, the control unit (C) of the air conditioner (1) stops rotation of the indoor fan (32) during the warm-up operation.

[0121] When the process shown in step S21 ends, the process proceeds to step S30.

[0122] As described above, the control unit (73) stops the rotation of the indoor fan (32) during the warm-up operation. This prevents the indoor fan (32) from causing the air from the room (I) to flow into the air conditioning indoor unit (30) of the air conditioner (1) during the warm-up operation, thereby preventing the air from affecting the warm-up operation. As a result, when the cooling operation is performed during the main operation, the evaporating temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) can be sufficiently lowered during the warm-up operation, thereby enabling the cooling operation to be performed effectively while reducing the power required for the warm-up operation. When the heating operation is performed during the main operation, the condensing temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) can be sufficiently increased during the warm-up operation, thereby enabling the heating operation to be performed effectively while reducing the power required for the warm-up operation.

[0123] (9) Third example of air conditioning system operation As shown in FIGS. 4, 7 and 10, the third example differs from the first example in that when the process shown in step S20 ends, the process proceeds to step S22.

[0124] In step S22, the control unit (73) transmits, via the communication unit (71), to the air conditioner (1), a signal instructing the air conditioner (1) to close the flap (37), or does not transmit a signal instructing the air conditioner (1) to open the flap (37). As a result, the control unit (C) of the air conditioner (1) closes the flap (37) of the fan (32) during the warm-up operation, thereby closing the indoor air outlet (31b). The flap (37) is an example of an air deflector. The air deflector may be a louver.

[0125] When the process shown in step S22 ends, the process proceeds to step S30.

[0126] As described above, the control unit (73) closes the flap (37) during the warm-up operation. This prevents the air from flowing into the indoor unit (30) of the air conditioner (1) during the warm-up operation, thereby preventing the air from affecting the warm-up operation. As a result, when the cooling operation is performed during the main operation, the evaporating temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) can be sufficiently lowered during the warm-up operation, thereby enabling the cooling operation to be performed effectively while reducing the power required for the warm-up operation. When the heating operation is performed during the main operation, the condensing temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) can be sufficiently increased during the warm-up operation, thereby enabling the heating operation to be performed effectively while reducing the power required for the warm-up operation.

[0127] (10) Fourth Example of Air Conditioning System Operation As shown in FIGS. 4, 7 and 11, the fourth example differs from the first example in that when the process shown in step S20 ends, the process proceeds to step S23.

[0128] In step S23, the control unit (73) transmits, via the communication unit (71), to the air conditioner (1), a signal instructing the air conditioner (1) to energize the compressor (12) but not to rotate the compressor (12) (i.e., to rotate the first motor (M1)). As a result, during the warm-up operation, the control unit (C) of the air conditioner (1) controls the compressor (12) so that the compressor (12) is kept energized but not rotated. This makes it possible to suppress noise from the compressor (12) during the warm-up operation.

[0129] When the process shown in step S23 ends, the process proceeds to step S30.

[0130] (11) Fifth Example of Air Conditioning System Operation As shown in FIGS. 4, 7, and 12, the fifth example differs from the first example in that, in step S30, if an instruction to start the main operation is not input from the remote controller (40) (No in step S30), the process proceeds to step S31.

[0131] In step S31, the control unit (73) determines whether the predicted time has passed. If it is determined that the predicted time has passed (Yes in step S31), the process proceeds to step S40. If it is not determined that the predicted time has passed (No in step S31), the process proceeds to step S30.

[0132] As described above, when it is determined that the predicted time has passed without an instruction to start the main operation being issued, the preparatory operation is stopped, thereby enabling the air conditioner (1) to save power.

[0133] (12) Sixth Example of Air Conditioning System Operation As shown in FIGS. 4, 7 and 13, the sixth example differs from the fifth example in that if the predicted time has passed in step S31 (Yes in step S31), the process proceeds to step S32.

[0134] In step S32, the control unit (73) determines whether the probability that the main operation will be performed at the predicted time (execution probability) is lower than a predetermined value. The execution probability is output by the control unit (73) when the prediction model is created. If it is determined that the execution probability is lower than the predetermined value (Yes in step S32), the process proceeds to step S40. If it is determined that the execution probability is not lower than the predetermined value (No in step S32), the process proceeds to step S30.

[0135] As described above, when it is determined that the execution probability is lower than a predetermined value and the predicted time has passed without an instruction for main operation being issued, the preparatory operation is stopped, thereby enabling the air conditioner (1) to save power.

[0136] Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various modifications in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims (for example, (A) to (J) below). Furthermore, elements of the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be combined or substituted as appropriate.

[0137] The terms "first," "second," "third," etc. mentioned above are used to distinguish the terms to which these terms are attached, and do not limit the number or order of the terms.

[0138] (A) The predicted time set by the control unit 73 may be displayed on the display unit 41 of the remote controller 40. The user may also be able to check the predicted time on the display unit 41 and edit (change) the predicted time using the input unit 42.

[0139] (B) The input unit (42) may receive an instruction to set the start time of a warm-up operation such as a preheating operation, thereby enabling the user to make the air conditioner (1) start the warm-up operation at a timing desired by the user.

[0140] (C) When the execution probability (probability that a main operation will be performed at the predicted time) is output, the control unit (73) may change the level of the preparatory operation or the length of time for which the preparatory operation is performed depending on the degree of the execution probability. The level of the preparatory operation indicates the amount of power supplied to the various components of the air conditioner (1) that perform the preparatory operation. The higher the execution probability, the greater the power supplied to the various components that perform the preparatory operation, and thus the higher the level of the preparatory operation (for example, the preheating level, the precooling level, the dehumidification level of the humidity control rotor (22), etc.).

[0141] (D) The air conditioning system (100) may not include the server (70). In this case, the control unit (C) of the air conditioner (1) may function as the storage unit (72) and the control unit (73) of the server (70). The remote controller (40) may be configured to include the functions of the storage unit (72) and the control unit (73) of the server (70). A terminal such as a smartphone may be used as the remote controller (40).

[0142] (E) First to sixth examples (FIGS. 8 to 13) of the operation of the air conditioning system when the related information includes the first information (information indicating the type of main operation) will be described. In this case, the type of preparatory operation to be performed in step S20 may be determined by the control unit (73) in accordance with the type of main operation predicted to be performed at the predicted time. For example, when it is predicted that a dehumidifying operation will be performed at the predicted time, the dehumidifying operation of the humidity control rotor (22) may be performed as the preparatory operation in step S20.

[0143] (F) First to sixth examples (FIGS. 8 to 13) of the operation of the air conditioning system when the related information includes the sixth information (information indicating the weather) will be described. In this case, in step S10, if the control unit (73) determines that it is a predetermined time before the predicted time and that the weather in the predetermined area where the air conditioner (1) is installed is the predetermined weather, the result is “Yes,” and otherwise the result is “No.”

[0144] (G) First to sixth examples (FIGS. 8 to 13) of the operation of the air conditioning system when the related information includes the seventh information (information indicating temperature) will be described. In this case, in step S10, if the control unit (73) determines that it is a predetermined time before the predicted time and that the temperature in the predetermined area where the air conditioner (1) is installed is within a predetermined temperature range, the result is “Yes,” and otherwise the result is “No.”

[0145] (H) First to sixth examples (FIGS. 8 to 13) of the operation of the air conditioning system when the related information includes the eighth information (information indicating humidity) will be described. In this case, in step S10, if the control unit (73) determines that it is a predetermined time before the predicted time and that the humidity in the predetermined area where the air conditioner (1) is installed is within a predetermined humidity range, the result is “Yes,” and otherwise the result is “No.”

[0146] (I) When the related information includes multiple pieces of information, in step S10 of the first to sixth examples (FIGS. 8 to 13), if all of the conditions related to the multiple pieces of related information are met, a "Yes" judgment is made, and otherwise a "No" judgment is made. For example, when the related information includes the second information (information indicating the start date of the main operation) and the sixth information (information indicating the weather), in step S10, if it is determined that the predicted time on a specific date is a specific time before the predicted time and that the weather in the specific area where the air conditioning apparatus (1) is installed is the specific weather, a "Yes" judgment is made, and otherwise a "No" judgment is made.

[0147] (J) A modified example of the air conditioner (1) will be described with reference to Fig. 14. Differences from the above-described embodiment will be described below. Note that, for convenience, the air conditioning indoor unit (30) and the air conditioning outdoor unit (10) are not shown in Fig. 14.

[0148] As shown in FIG. 14, the modified air conditioner (1) differs from the air conditioner (1) shown in FIG. 2 in that the second fan (23) and the third passage (62) are not provided.

[0149] In the modified example of the air conditioner (1), the operational details of the humidification operation among the above-mentioned operational steps (3-1) to (3-8) are different from those of the air conditioner (1) shown in FIG.

[0150] In a modified example of the air conditioner (1), during humidification operation, air humidified by the humidity control unit (20) is intermittently supplied to the room (I). In a modified example of the air conditioner (1), during humidification operation, the humidity control unit (20) alternately performs a third operation and a fourth operation. The third operation is an operation in which moisture in the air is adsorbed by the humidity control rotor (22) and the air that has passed through the humidity control rotor (22) is discharged to the outside of the room. The fourth operation is an operation in which the humidity control rotor (22) is regenerated and the air to which moisture has been added from the humidity control rotor (22) is supplied to the room (I).

[0151] Specifically, in the third operation, the control unit (C) operates the first fan (26), stops the heater (25), sets the first switching damper (24) to the fourth state, and sets the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state. The air transported by the first fan (26) flows through the first passage (27) and passes through the humidity control area (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the humidity control area (22A), moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The air that has absorbed moisture into the adsorbent in the humidity control area (22A) flows from the first passage (27) to the second passage (28) and is discharged to the outside of the room, as indicated by the solid arrows in FIG. 7 .

[0152] In the fourth operation, the control unit (C) operates the first fan (26) and the heater (25), sets the first switching damper (24) to the third state, and sets the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state. The air transported by the first fan (26) flows through the first passage (27), is heated by the heater (25), and then flows through the humidity control region (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the humidity control region (22A), the adsorbent is regenerated. Specifically, moisture adsorbed by the adsorbent is desorbed and released into the air. The air containing the moisture desorbed from the humidity control rotor (22) is sent to the air conditioning indoor unit (30) through the hose (2) and supplied to the room (I) through the indoor air outlet (31b) of the air conditioning indoor unit (30). [Industrial Applicability]

[0153] As described above, the present disclosure is useful for air conditioning systems. [Explanation of symbols]

[0154] 1. Air conditioning equipment 12 Compressor 22 Humidity control rotor (rotor) 25 Heater 30 Air conditioning indoor unit (indoor unit) 32 Indoor fan (fan) 37 Flap (wind deflector) 41 Display section 42 Input section 73 Control Unit 100 Air Conditioning System I Indoor

Claims

1. An air conditioning system including an air conditioner (1) for conditioning a room (I), a first acquisition unit that acquires start information indicating a start time of a main operation of the air conditioner (1); a second acquisition unit that acquires related information related to the main operation indicated by the start information; a control unit (73) that performs a process of outputting a predicted time using a prediction model for outputting a predicted time in the future at which the main operation will be started, based on the start information and the related information, and a process of causing the air conditioner (1) to start a preparatory operation a predetermined time before the predicted time; Equipped with The related information includes at least one of information indicating the type of main operation indicated in the start information, information indicating the start month and date of the main operation indicated in the start information, information indicating the start day of the main operation indicated in the start information, information indicating whether the start day of the main operation indicated in the start information is a public holiday, information about events that were taking place on the start day of the main operation indicated in the start information in the specified area where the air conditioning device (1) is installed, information indicating the weather in the specified area at the start of the main operation indicated in the start information or within a first specified period before and after the start of the main operation indicated in the start information, information indicating the temperature in the specified area at the start of the main operation indicated in the start information or within a second specified period before and after the start of the main operation indicated in the start information, and information indicating the humidity in the specified area at the start of the main operation indicated in the start information or within a third specified period before and after the start of the main operation.

2. An air conditioning system as described in claim 1, wherein the control unit (73) generates the predictive model based on the start information and the related information.

3. 2. The air conditioning system of claim 1, wherein the preparatory operation includes at least one of a preheating operation of the air conditioning device (1), a precooling operation of the air conditioning device (1), a dehumidifying operation of a rotor (22) included in the air conditioning device (1), a moisture absorption operation of the rotor (22), a preheating operation of the rotor (22), and a preheating operation of a heater (25) included in the air conditioning device (1).

4. The air conditioner (1) includes a fan (32) that draws air from a room (I) into an indoor unit (30) of the air conditioner (1) and sends the conditioned air into the room (I); The air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit (73) stops rotation of the fan (32) during the warm-up operation.

5. The air conditioner (1) includes an air direction plate (37) that determines the direction in which conditioned air is sent into the room (I), The air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit (73) closes the airflow direction flap (37) during the warm-up operation.

6. 2. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit (73) energizes a compressor (12) included in the air conditioner (1) during the preparatory operation but does not drive the compressor (12) to rotate.

7. The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a display unit (41) that displays the predicted time.

8. The air conditioning system according to claim 7, further comprising an input unit (42) that receives an instruction to edit the predicted time.

9. The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising an input unit (42) that receives an instruction to set a start time for a warm-up operation of the air conditioning system.

10. 7. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein, when the air conditioning system does not receive an instruction to start a main operation from the start of the preparatory operation until the predicted time, the control unit (73) stops the preparatory operation.

11. the control unit (73) outputs a probability that the air conditioning system will receive an instruction to start a main operation at the predicted time; 7. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit (73) stops the preparatory operation when the probability is lower than a predetermined value and the air conditioning system does not receive an instruction to start a main operation from the start of the preparatory operation until the predicted time.

12. The air conditioning system according to claim 11, wherein the control unit (73) changes the level of the preparatory operation or the length of time for which the preparatory operation is performed depending on the degree of the probability.

Images