Adjusting device

Abstract

To enable a device after replacement to operate easily in a desired operation state in a short time at the time of replacement of a device body while reliably avoiding leakage of information by which the operation state of the device can be identified.SOLUTION: Control units 15, 25: when a predetermined first start condition is satisfied, execute first processing of storing parameter data Dp, which are stored in a memory unit 16 of a device body 2, in a removable memory M while maintaining the state that the parameter data are stored in the memory unit 16; when a predetermined second start condition is satisfied, execute second processing of storing the parameter data Dp, which are stored in the memory unit 16, in the removable memory M installed to a memory installation part 26 of a remote control unit 3, and then erasing the parameter data from the memory unit 16; and when a predetermined third start condition is satisfied, execute third processing of storing the parameter data Dp, which are stored in the removable memory M, in the memory unit 16.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an adjusting device configured to adjust at least one of the temperature and humidity of a fluid to be adjusted. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, the following patent document discloses an invention for an "air conditioner maintenance management support method (hereinafter also simply referred to as "support method")" that accesses an information processing device via a network such as the Internet to obtain information on the operating status of an air conditioner connected to the information processing device and remotely controls the air conditioner. In this case, the system disclosed as an example of this maintenance management support method includes an air conditioner and an information processing device that creates and manages a homepage that lists information on the air conditioner, and employs a configuration in which various data is stored and remotely controlled by an information terminal that can be connected to the information processing device via the network.

[0003] The air conditioner is configured to generate cool air or the like using a refrigerant supplied from an outdoor unit and blow it out to keep the indoor environment in a desired state (adjust the temperature of the air in the room). In this case, a terminal section to which a communication cable can be connected is provided on the housing of the air conditioner, and a control circuit (CPU) provided in the housing is configured to be able to transmit and receive various signals to and from an information processing device via the communication circuit and the cable connected to the terminal section. Specifically, in the air conditioner in this system, the control circuit (CPU) is configured to be able to transmit data on the operating status of the air conditioner (detection values ​​of various sensors, set temperature and operating status, results of diagnosis by a self-diagnosis function (fault details), etc.) to the information processing device, and to receive control commands (operation instructions) input from the information processing device to control each section.

[0004] The information processing device is connected to a network, and is configured to acquire and store various information such as the operating status of the air conditioner based on data transmitted from the air conditioner, as well as to create and manage a homepage that lists this information. This information processing device is also configured to be able to remotely control the air conditioner according to operational instructions (instructions from an information terminal, described below) given via the network. In this case, the homepage managed by this information processing device has a page that lists the operating status of the air conditioner, as well as a page for receiving remote operation instructions for the air conditioner (such as turning the power on / off and raising and lowering the set temperature).

[0005] In this system, the CPU of an operating air conditioner (the air conditioner adjusting the room temperature) generates data indicating its operating status and sequentially transmits it to an information processing device. When the CPU determines that a malfunction has occurred as a result of self-diagnosis, it transmits data (error code) capable of identifying the nature of the malfunction to the information processing device. In the information processing device, a control circuit stores the various data transmitted from the air conditioner in a memory circuit. The control circuit also creates a homepage using the data stored in the memory circuit and updates it using newly stored data. This makes it possible to grasp the operating status of the air conditioner in real time by viewing the "page showing the operating status" on the homepage using an information terminal connected to the network.

[0006] If a user determines from browsing the website that there is a problem with the air conditioner, they will contact an administrator (such as the air conditioner manufacturer's service center). In response, a maintenance person will use an information terminal connected to the network to check the information posted on the website and understand the operating status of the air conditioner. The maintenance person will then download and analyze more detailed data posted on the website, identify the faulty part of the air conditioner, and travel to the site (where the air conditioner is installed) with the necessary parts to carry out the necessary maintenance.

[0007] On the other hand, when it is necessary to change the operating state of the air conditioner (including turning the air conditioner on / off), the user or maintenance personnel uses an information terminal to display the remote operation screen on the above-mentioned homepage and operates the buttons displayed on the screen. In response, the information processing device controls the air conditioner based on the instructions given by the operation on the information terminal (sends a control signal to the air conditioner). In response, the CPU in the air conditioner controls each section according to the instructions from the information processing device. This causes the air conditioner to adjust the temperature in the room in an operating state corresponding to the operation of the information terminal. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] JP 2002-032460 A (Pages 3-7, Figures 1-5) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] However, the system and the support method disclosed in the above-mentioned patent document have the following problems to be solved. Specifically, the above-mentioned system and support method employ a configuration and method in which an information processing device and an information terminal connected to an air conditioner transmit and receive various data via a network.

[0010] In this case, this type of air conditioner may be installed and used at a manufacturing site to adjust the temperature at the manufacturing site of various goods. At such manufacturing sites, air conditioning is controlled to provide a temperature suitable for the manufacturing of goods, and depending on the goods being manufactured, the content of the air conditioning control is one of the confidential matters related to the manufacturing conditions for the production of good products and the reduction of manufacturing costs. In addition, this type of air conditioner may be installed and used at a production site to adjust the temperature at the production site of various agricultural and livestock products. At such production sites, air conditioning is controlled to provide a temperature suitable for the production of agricultural and livestock products, and depending on the livestock products being manufactured, the content of the air conditioning control is one of the confidential matters related to the manufacturing conditions for the production of good products and the reduction of production costs. In addition, the operating status of the air conditioner (operating time period, operating time length, etc.) is information that can identify the manufacturing status of goods and the production status of agricultural and livestock products, and the operating status is also one of the confidential matters.

[0011] However, as described above, in the system and its support method disclosed in the above patent document, the information processing device and the information terminal are configured to transmit and receive various data via a network such as the Internet, so there is a risk that various data stored in the information processing device, the air conditioner connected thereto, and the information terminal may be read by unauthorized users using other information terminals connected to the network. Therefore, there is a risk that manufacturing conditions or production conditions may be identified based on the "contents of air conditioning management by the air conditioner" identified based on the read data, or that the manufacturing status of goods or the production status of agricultural and livestock products may be identified.

[0012] As described above, the system and the support method thereof disclosed in the above patent document are configured to allow the air conditioner to be remotely controlled via an information processing device by operating an information terminal connected to the network. This means that there is a risk that the air conditioner may be illegally remotely controlled by unauthorized users using other information terminals, etc., connected to the network. In addition, being connected to a network makes it difficult to prevent data that may interfere with the normal operation of the air conditioner (virus-infected data, worms, and other malware) from entering the air conditioner.

[0013] Considering the above points, the use of network devices may be restricted at manufacturing sites of goods and agricultural and livestock production sites, and even if there are restrictions on use, there are manufacturing sites and production sites where it is difficult to connect to a network. For this reason, the system and the support method disclosed in the above patent document cannot be used at such manufacturing sites and production sites, and there is a current situation where there is no choice but to install and use a standalone air conditioner at the site.

[0014] On the other hand, in the case of air conditioners (temperature adjustment devices) installed in manufacturing or production sites as described above, even if a malfunction occurs or a state arises in which maintenance that requires a certain amount of work time is required, it may not be acceptable to suspend temperature adjustment in the installation space for a long period of time. For this reason, it may become necessary to immediately resume temperature adjustment by replacing the malfunctioning device or the device requiring maintenance with an alternative device or another device that is operating normally.

[0015] However, for example, when a single air conditioner in the system disclosed in the above patent document is installed at a manufacturing or production site to adjust the temperature, if a malfunction or maintenance is caused and the air conditioner is removed from the installation site, information that can identify what temperature adjustment was set to be performed (such as the target temperature and the history of the actually adjusted temperature) is stored in the memory inside the air conditioner. Therefore, this information may be taken out of the installation site together with the removed air conditioner, which may lead to the leakage of the various confidential information mentioned above.

[0016] Furthermore, when an installed air conditioner is replaced with an alternative device, the data regarding the operating conditions (ON / OFF times, target temperature, timing of temperature changes, and other conditions) is not stored in the replaced air conditioner (operating conditions are not set). Therefore, even if the equipment replacement work is completed in a short time, it takes a certain amount of time to set the operating conditions to operate the replaced equipment in the desired operating state, making it difficult to shorten the time required to resume temperature adjustment.

[0017] Although the issues that exist in air conditioners (temperature adjustment devices) that adjust the air temperature have been explained above, issues similar to those that exist in the above-mentioned air conditioners also arise in various adjustment devices, such as air conditioners (humidity adjustment devices) that adjust the humidity of the air, and supply devices (temperature adjustment devices) that supply liquid adjusted to a specified temperature to an object.

[0018] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems to be solved, and its main object is to provide an adjustment device that can easily operate a replaced device in a desired operating state in a short period of time when replacing the device body, while reliably avoiding the leakage of information that can identify the operating state of the device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0019] In order to achieve the above object, the adjustment device according to claim 1 is an adjustment device comprising an adjustment unit that adjusts at least one of temperature and humidity of a fluid to be adjusted, a control unit that controls the adjustment unit based on control data to adjust the at least one of the temperature and humidity, and a storage unit that stores the control data, the adjustment unit, the control unit, and a first storage unit serving as the storage unit are disposed in the adjustment unit, and a remote operation unit that is configured separately from the device main unit and directly connected to the device main unit and that includes an operation unit that can instruct a value of the control data and a second storage unit serving as the storage unit, the control unit being configured to A first process of storing the control data stored in a first storage unit in the second storage unit while maintaining the control data stored in the first storage unit is executed when a first start condition that is predefined is satisfied, a second process of storing the control data stored in the first storage unit in the second storage unit and then erasing the control data from the first storage unit is executed when a second start condition that is predefined is satisfied, and a third process of storing the control data stored in the second storage unit in the first storage unit is executed when a third start condition that is predefined is satisfied.

[0020] The adjustment device of claim 2 is the adjustment device of claim 1, wherein the control unit executes a fourth process of storing history data capable of identifying the control history of the adjustment unit in the first memory unit at a predetermined time interval and storing the history data in the second memory unit, and in the second process, after storing the history data stored in the first memory unit in the second memory unit, erases the history data from the first memory unit, and in the third process, stores the history data stored in the second memory unit in the first memory unit.

[0021] The adjustment device of claim 3 is the adjustment device of claim 2, wherein the control unit encrypts the control data and the history data according to a predefined encryption procedure and stores them in the second memory unit, and decrypts the control data and the history data stored in the second memory unit according to a predefined decryption procedure and stores them in the first memory unit.

[0022] The adjustment device of claim 4 is the adjustment device of claim 2, wherein the control unit executes a fifth process of storing model data capable of identifying the model of the device main body in the second memory unit, and in the third process, when the model identified based on the model data stored in the second memory unit satisfies predetermined tolerance conditions, stores the control data and the history data stored in the second memory unit in the first memory unit.

[0023] An adjustment device according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is the adjustment device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the remote control unit includes a memory mounting unit capable of mounting a removable memory as the second storage unit. Effect of the Invention

[0024] In the adjustment device described in claim 1, the control unit executes a first process of storing control data stored in a first memory unit of the device main body in a second memory unit of the remote control unit while maintaining the state of storage in the first memory unit, when a first start condition specified in advance is satisfied, executes a second process of storing the control data stored in the first memory unit in the second memory unit and then erasing it from the first memory unit, when a second start condition specified in advance is satisfied, and executes a third process of storing the control data stored in the second memory unit in the first memory unit, when a third start condition specified in advance is satisfied.

[0025] In addition, in the adjustment device described in claim 2, the control unit executes a fourth process of storing history data capable of identifying the control history of the adjustment unit in a first memory unit at a predetermined time interval and storing the history data in a second memory unit, and in the second process, stores the history data stored in the first memory unit in the second memory unit and then erases it from the first memory unit, and in a third process, stores the history data stored in the second memory unit in the first memory unit.

[0026] Therefore, according to the adjustment device described in claims 1 and 2, when the device main body is replaced or when the device main body is completely reset, not only can the control data and history data stored in the second memory unit of the remote control unit be reliably and easily restored to the first memory unit of the device main body to be restarted, and the device main body can be restored to a usable state in a short time, but also the control data and history data can be output from the device main body to the remote control unit and stored in the second memory unit without connecting to a network such as a LAN or WAN, so that the control data, etc. can be stored in the second memory unit of the remote control unit without unnecessarily leaking the contents of the temperature adjustment by the device main body.In addition, since it is not connected to a network, it is possible to preferably prevent a malicious third party from reading out control data from the first memory unit of the device main body or the second memory unit of the remote control unit, inputting data that may interfere with the normal operation of the adjustment device into the adjustment device, or interfering with the normal operation of the device main body by remote control by a malicious third party.

[0027] In the adjustment device according to claim 3, the control unit encrypts the control data and history data according to a predefined encryption procedure and stores them in the second storage unit, and also decrypts the control data and history data stored in the second storage unit according to a predefined decryption procedure and stores them in the first storage unit. Therefore, according to the adjustment device according to claim 3, even if the control data and history data are read out from the second storage unit of the remote control unit, the read out control data and history data cannot be analyzed, and thus it is possible to reliably prevent the leakage of information that should be kept secret.

[0028] In the adjustment device according to claim 4, the control unit executes a fifth process of storing model data capable of identifying the model of the device body in the second storage unit, and in the third process, stores the control data and history data stored in the second storage unit in the first storage unit when the model identified based on the model data stored in the second storage unit satisfies a predefined allowable condition. Therefore, according to the adjustment device according to claim 4, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the control data and history data are output from the remote control unit to a device body of a model that cannot operate normally with the control data stored in the second storage unit of the remote control unit.

[0029] In addition, according to the adjustment device described in claim 5, the remote control unit is equipped with a memory mounting unit into which a removable memory can be mounted as a second storage unit, so that an authorized user can remove the removable memory from the remote control unit (memory mounting unit) and easily read out control data and history data from the removable memory using an information processing terminal that performs analysis. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1] 1 is a configuration diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 13 is a flowchart of a data output process 30. [Diagram 3] 1 is a flowchart of a data output process 40. [Figure 4] 1 is a flowchart of a data input process 50. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0031] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the adjustment device will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] The air conditioner 1 shown in FIG. 1 is an example of an "adjustment device" and is configured to be installed at a manufacturing site of an article to adjust the temperature of the air at the manufacturing site (an example of a "fluid to be adjusted"), or to be installed at a production site of agricultural or livestock products to adjust the temperature of the air at the production site (another example of a "fluid to be adjusted"). In this case, in the above-mentioned manufacturing site or production site, entry by users, etc. may be restricted to prevent dust, fungi, etc. from entering the space where manufacturing or production is performed. Therefore, this air conditioner 1 is equipped with a device main body 2 and a remote control unit 3, and is configured such that the device main body 2 is installed at the manufacturing site or production site, and the remote control unit 3 is installed in a room isolated from the installation space of the device main body 2 (such as a room next to the installation space of the device main body 2), so that the device main body 2 can be remotely operated using the remote control unit 3 without entering the manufacturing site or production site.

[0033] Specifically, the device main body 2 is an example of an "device main body" and is configured to include a refrigeration cycle 11, blower fans 12a, 12b, an operation unit 13, a display unit 14, a control unit 15, and a storage unit 16. The remote control unit 3 is an example of a "remote control unit" and is configured to include an operation unit 23, a display unit 24, a control unit 25, and a memory mounting unit 26. In this case, the air conditioning device 1 of this example is configured to be able to connect the remote control unit 3 to the device main body 2 via a signal cable having a length within a range of about 20 m to 50 m, for example, and is configured to directly connect the device main body 2 and the remote control unit 3 to transmit and receive various data without going through a network such as a LAN or WAN.

[0034] The refrigeration cycle 11 includes a compressor 11a, a condenser 11b, an expansion valve 11c, and an evaporator 11d, and constitutes, together with the blower fans 12a and 12b, "an adjustment unit that adjusts at least one of the temperature and humidity of the fluid to be adjusted." In this case, in the air conditioner 1 of this example, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 11a is condensed in the condenser 11b by heat exchange with the air blown by the blower fan 12a, and then passed through the expansion valve 11c and supplied into the evaporator 11d, so that the air blown by the blower fan 12b has its temperature lowered (its temperature is adjusted) by heat exchange with the refrigerant in the evaporator 11d.

[0035] The blower fan 12a is disposed, for example, downstream of the condenser 11b in the air flow path, and introduces new air (air to be heat exchanged in the condenser 11b) into the housing by blowing out the air that has been heat exchanged in the condenser 11b under the control of the control unit 15. The blower fan 12b is disposed, for example, downstream of the evaporator 11d in the air flow path, and introduces new air (air to be heat exchanged in the evaporator 11d) into the housing by blowing out the air that has been heat exchanged in the evaporator 11d under the control of the control unit 15.

[0036] The operation unit 13 includes operation switches for setting the operating conditions of the air conditioning device 1 (device main body 2) and issuing instructions to start / stop operation, and outputs operation signals corresponding to switch operations to the control unit 15. The display unit 14 displays various information such as the operating conditions and operating state of the air conditioning device 1 (device main body 2) under the control of the control unit 15.

[0037] In this case, in the air conditioning device 1 of this example, as an example, the device body 2 is configured on the assumption that the operating conditions are set and instructions to start / stop operation are given by operating the operation unit 23 of the remote control unit 3 while referring to the display unit 24 of the remote control unit 3, as described below, but the operation unit 13 and display unit 14 are also provided on the device body 2 so that various confirmations and instructions can be given at the installation location of the device body 2 during installation work or maintenance work at the installation location without referring to the display unit 24 or operating the operation unit 23. In addition, by providing the operation unit 13 and display unit 14 on the device body 2, a user who does not need remote operation by the remote control unit 3 can use the device body 2 alone without using the remote control unit 3.

[0038] The control unit 15 controls the device main body 2 in an overall manner. Specifically, the control unit 15 constitutes a "control unit" in cooperation with the control unit 25 of the remote control unit 3, and controls the compressor 11a, the expansion valve 11c, and the blower fans 12a, 12b of the refrigeration cycle 11 based on operating conditions specified by parameter data Dp stored in the storage unit 16 as described later and sensor signals from various sensors (not shown) to adjust the surrounding air to a preset temperature (target temperature: set temperature) (an example of a process of "controlling the adjustment unit based on control data to adjust at least one of the temperature and humidity of the fluid to be adjusted"). In this case, the parameter data Dp is an example of "control data", and various information such as the start time / end time of temperature adjustment by the "adjustment unit (the refrigeration cycle 11 and the blower fans 12a, 12b)" and the target temperature is recorded.

[0039] Furthermore, the control unit 15 causes the display unit 14 and the display unit 24 of the remote control unit 3 to display the operating state of the device main body 2. Specifically, the control unit 15 causes the target temperature (set temperature) and the measured temperature to be displayed as numerical values ​​or the like, and also causes information that can be used to identify whether each part of the device main body 2 is operating normally or not. Furthermore, the control unit 15 generates history data Dr that can identify the control history of the refrigeration cycle 11 and the blower fans 12a and 12b, and stores the data in the storage unit 16 or the like. In this case, the history data Dr is an example of "history data", and information such as the target temperature (set temperature), the start time / end time of temperature adjustment by the "adjustment unit", the control values ​​transmitted to the refrigeration cycle 11 and the blower fans 12a and 12b, and the measured temperature (temperature of the adjusted air) is recorded.

[0040] The control unit 15 also executes the data output process 30 shown in FIG. 2 and the data output process 40 shown in FIG. 3, and outputs, as an example, the serial number assigned to the device body 2 (an example of "model data that can identify the model of the device body") and the system data Ds that can identify the version number of the stored operation program, as well as the above-mentioned parameter data Dp and history data Dr to the remote control unit 3. When data input is instructed by operating the operation unit 13 or the remote control unit 3 (operation unit 23), the control unit 15 executes the data input process 50 shown in FIG. 4 to obtain the parameter data Dp and history data Dr from the remote control unit 3, and stores them in the storage unit 16. The data output processes 30, 40 and the data input process 50 will be described in detail later. The storage unit 16 is an example of a "first storage unit as a storage unit", and stores the operation program of the control unit 15, the system data Ds, the parameter data Dp, the history data Dr, and the like.

[0041] Meanwhile, operation unit 23 is an example of an "operation unit capable of instructing the value of control data", and includes an operation switch for remotely operating device main body 2, and outputs an operation signal corresponding to the switch operation to control unit 25. Also, display unit 24, under the control of control unit 25, displays the operating state of device main body 2, the set target temperature (set temperature), the actual temperature at the installation location of device main body 2, and the like.

[0042] The control unit 25 comprehensively controls the remote control unit 3. Specifically, the control unit 25 transmits operation signals output from the operation unit 23 to the device main body 2, and stores the system data Ds, parameter data Dp, history data Dr, and the like output from the device main body 2 in a removable memory M mounted in the memory mounting unit 26. In this case, the air conditioning device 1 of this example employs a configuration in which, when storing various data output from the device main body 2 in the removable memory M, the control unit 25 stores the data in the removable memory M in an encrypted state according to a predetermined encryption procedure.

[0043] Furthermore, the control unit 25 causes the display unit 24 to display the operating status of the device main body 2 (for example, information similar to the information displayed on the display unit 14 described above) based on history data Dr sequentially transmitted from the device main body 2 as described below. Furthermore, when an instruction to output data is given by operating the operation unit 23, the control unit 25 transmits system data Ds, parameter data Dp, history data Dr, and the like stored in the removable memory M to the device main body 2. In this case, the air conditioning device 1 of this example employs a configuration in which, when transmitting various encrypted data stored in the removable memory M to the device main body 2, the control unit 25 transmits the data in a decrypted state according to a predetermined decryption procedure.

[0044] The memory mounting unit 26 is an example of a "memory mounting unit" and is configured to be able to mount a removable memory M, which is an example of a "removable memory as a second storage unit" of the "second storage unit as a storage unit." In this case, in the air conditioning device 1 of this example, as an example, the memory mounting unit 26 is configured to include a connection connector conforming to the USB standard, and is configured to be able to mount (connect) a USB memory (USB flash drive) as the removable memory M to store various data.

[0045] In the air conditioning device 1 of this example, a "communication unit (communication interface unit)" for transmitting and receiving various data between the device main body 2 and the remote control unit 3 is actually provided in both the device main body 2 and the remote control unit 3. However, in order to facilitate understanding of the configuration and operation of the "adjustment device," detailed explanations of the various communication controls performed by this "communication unit" will be omitted, as they are included in the processing executed by the control units 15 and 25.

[0046] Next, as an example, the usage of the air conditioner 1 will be described using an example in which the air conditioner 1 is installed in a factory (production site) to adjust the air temperature in the factory. Note that the storage unit 16 of the device main body 2 stores program data of the latest operating program, as well as system data Ds that can identify the version number of the program data and the serial number assigned to the device main body 2.

[0047] First, the device main body 2 is installed at a location where the air temperature is to be adjusted, and the remote control unit 3 is installed at a location desired by the user (as an example, an adjacent room isolated from the location where the device main body 2 is installed), and the remote control unit 3 is connected to the device main body 2 via a communication cable. In this case, the location where the remote control unit 3 is installed is not limited to a location isolated from the location where the device main body 2 is installed, and the remote control unit 3 can also be installed in the same room as the location where the device main body 2 is installed, depending on the purpose of the air conditioning device 1 (the user's desire). Note that the specific installation work (connecting the power supply unit to commercial AC, connecting a pipe for discharging condensed water generated in the evaporator 11d, etc.) is well known, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0048] Next, by operating the operation unit 13 of the device main body 2 or the operation unit 23 of the remote control unit 3, various operating conditions such as the target temperature of the temperature adjustment by the "adjustment unit" are instructed (set). At this time, when the temperature adjustment is to be automatically started / ended, the start time / end time of the temperature adjustment are set. In response to this, the control unit 15 generates parameter data Dp capable of identifying the instructed operating conditions based on an operation signal from the operation unit 13 or the remote control unit 3 (operation unit 23), and stores the generated parameter data Dp in the storage unit 16. With the above, the air conditioner 1 is ready to start adjusting the temperature of the air. Note that in the air conditioner 1 of this example, even when the operating conditions are changed by operating the operation units 13, 23 while the "adjustment unit" is performing the temperature adjustment of the air described below, the control unit 15 executes a process of generating parameter data Dp according to the changed operating conditions and storing it in the storage unit 16.

[0049] On the other hand, when an instruction to start temperature adjustment is given by operating the operating units 13, 23, or when a preset start time arrives, the control unit 15 controls the "adjustment unit (the refrigeration cycle 11 and the blower fans 12a, 12b)" in accordance with the parameter data Dp to adjust the air temperature at the installation location to the specified (set) target temperature.

[0050] At this time, the compressor 11a starts compressing (pressurizing) the refrigerant, so that the refrigerant is circulated in the refrigeration cycle 11, and the blower fan 12a starts blowing air, so that the air introduced into the housing exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the condenser 11b, so that the refrigerant in the condenser 11b is condensed, and the blower fan 12b starts blowing air, so that the air introduced into the housing exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator 11d, so that the temperature of the air passing through the evaporator 11d is lowered. As a result, the temperature of the air in the installation location of the device main body 2 (around the device main body 2) is gradually lowered. In addition, the control unit 15 controls the "adjustment unit" so that the ambient temperature detected by a temperature sensor (not shown) becomes the target temperature (set temperature). As a result, the temperature of the air in the installation location of the device main body 2 is adjusted to the target temperature, and the state is maintained.

[0051] In the air conditioner 1 of this example, when the control unit 15 is instructed to start temperature adjustment as described above or when a preset start time arrives, the control unit 15 executes a process of recording information such as the instructed (set) target temperature (set temperature), the start time of temperature adjustment by the "adjustment unit", the control value sent to the "adjustment unit", and the actual temperature (temperature of the adjusted air) in parallel with the control of the "adjustment unit", to generate history data Dr, and to store the generated history data Dr in the storage unit 16. The control unit 15 also continuously executes a process of adding information such as the target temperature (set temperature), the control value sent to the "adjustment unit", and the actual temperature to the history data Dr at a predetermined time interval (predetermined period). As a result, information useful for checking whether the air temperature management of the installation location was properly performed by the air conditioner 1 (device body 2) is accumulated in the storage unit 16.

[0052] Furthermore, in the air conditioning device 1 of this example, the control unit 15 executes data output processing 30 shown in Fig. 2 in parallel with the processing of controlling the "adjustment unit" and generating historical data Dr (storing in the memory unit 16). As described above, in the air conditioning device 1 of this example, when various data transmitted from the remote control unit 3 is stored in the removable memory M, the control unit 25 encrypts and stores this data, and when transmitting the various data stored in the removable memory M to the device main body 2, the encrypted data is decrypted and transmitted; however, in the following explanation, in order to facilitate understanding of the operation of the air conditioning device 1, explanations of the encryption and decryption by the control unit 25 will be omitted.

[0053] In this data output process 30, the control unit 15 first outputs the system data Ds and parameter data Dp stored in the storage unit 16 to the remote control unit 3 (steps 31, 32). In response to this, in the remote control unit 3, the control unit 25 sequentially stores the system data Ds and parameter data Dp output from the device body 2 in the removable memory M (an example of the "fifth process of storing model data in the second storage unit" and the "first process of storing control data in the second storage unit while maintaining the state in which it is stored in the first storage unit"). In this example, "when an instruction to start temperature adjustment by the adjustment unit is given" or "when a preset start time arrives" corresponds to "when a predefined first start condition is satisfied."

[0054] Next, at this point in time when no change in the operating conditions (change in the parameters recorded in the parameter data Dp) has been made, the control unit 15 determines that the parameters have not been changed (step 33), and outputs the history data Dr recorded in the storage unit 16 to the remote control unit 3 (step 34). In response to this, in the remote control unit 3, the control unit 25 stores the history data Dr output from the device body 2 in the removable memory M. Note that in this example, the process of generating the history data Dr and storing it in the storage unit 16, which is continuously executed by the control unit 15, and the above-mentioned process of outputting this history data Dr to the remote control unit 3 and storing it in the removable memory M, together correspond to the "fourth process".

[0055] Next, the control unit 15 determines that new information has not been added to the history data Dr and that the timing for outputting the history data Dr to the remote control unit 3 has not arrived (step 35), and determines whether or not the condition for terminating the temperature adjustment by the "adjustment unit" has been satisfied (step 36). At this time, when an instruction to terminate has not been given by operating the operation units 13, 23 or a preset termination time has not arrived, the control unit 15 determines that the termination condition has not been satisfied and returns to the above step 33, and repeatedly executes the determination process of this step 33 and the determination processes of steps 35 and 36 in this order.

[0056] Here, when the information is added to the history data Dr at the aforementioned predetermined time intervals, the control unit 15 determines that the output timing has arrived (step 35), and outputs the history data Dr to which the information has been added to the remote control unit 3 (step 34). As a result, the latest history data Dr output from the device main body 2 is stored in the removable memory M in the remote control unit 3.

[0057] Furthermore, when the operating conditions are changed by operating the operation unit 23 or the like while the adjustment unit is performing air temperature adjustment, the control unit 15 stores new parameter data Dp recording the changed conditions in the storage unit 16, determines that the parameters have been changed (step 33), and outputs the parameter data Dp stored in the storage unit 16 to the remote control unit 3 (step 32). As a result, the parameter data Dp that can identify the latest operating conditions is stored in the removable memory M in the remote control unit 3. Although a detailed description is omitted, in the air conditioning device 1 of this example, even when the operating conditions are changed when the adjustment unit is not performing air temperature adjustment, the control unit 15 stores new parameter data Dp recording the changed conditions in the storage unit 16 and outputs it to the remote control unit 3. At this time, the latest parameter data Dp is also stored in the removable memory M.

[0058] Thereafter, when an instruction to end the temperature adjustment is given by operating the operation unit 23 or the like, or when a preset end time arrives, the control unit 15 determines that the end conditions have been met (step 36), terminates this data output process 30, and stops the refrigeration cycle 11 and the blower fans 12a, 12b in accordance with a predetermined procedure, thereby ending the temperature adjustment.

[0059] In this case, in the air conditioning device 1 of this example in which the parameter data Dp and history data Dr stored in the memory unit 16 of the device main body 2 are also stored in the removable memory M attached to the memory attachment unit 26 of the remote control unit 3, whether or not the temperature adjustment by the device main body 2 is being performed can be confirmed by removing the removable memory M from the remote control unit 3 (memory attachment unit 26) and analyzing the parameter data Dp and history data Dr in the removable memory M using various information processing terminals, regardless of whether or not the temperature adjustment by the device main body 2 is being performed. Note that even if the "second memory unit" of the "remote control unit" is configured with a mounted memory or the like that cannot be removed from the "remote control unit", unlike the configuration of this example, whether or not the air temperature of the installation location of the device main body 2 is being properly adjusted can be confirmed by connecting various information processing terminals to the "remote control unit" and analyzing the parameter data Dp and history data Dr in the removable memory M in the "second memory unit", regardless of whether or not the temperature adjustment by the device main body 2 is being performed.

[0060] On the other hand, in this type of air conditioning device 1, the device body 2 may reach a state where replacement of consumable parts or repair of broken parts, which requires a certain amount of work time, is required. In such a case, when it is necessary to continue adjusting the air temperature to continue manufacturing goods, the device body 2 to be worked on is replaced with a device body 2 of the same type (new or used with maintenance) or a substitute machine, etc., to perform temperature adjustment (hereinafter, the device body 2 to be removed from the installation site is also referred to as the "device body 2 before replacement", and the newly installed device body 2 is also referred to as the "device body 2 after replacement"). At this time, the remote control unit 3 and communication cable are connected to the device body 2 after replacement and continue to be used. In this example, it is assumed that the device body 2 after replacement is the same type of device as the device body 2 before replacement (only the serial number is different, and the mechanical configuration is the same as the device body 2 before replacement).

[0061] During the replacement of the device body 2, various data stored in the memory unit 16 of the device body 2 is saved to the removable memory M of the remote control unit 3 while the remote control unit 3 is connected to the device body 2 before replacement. The data saving operation can be performed while the device body 2 is adjusting the temperature. However, as described later, when the data saving to the removable memory M is completed, the data in the memory unit 16 is erased and the temperature adjustment cannot be continued. Therefore, it is basically preferable to perform the data saving operation while the device body 2 is stopped. Specifically, the operation unit 23 of the remote control unit 3 is operated to instruct the start of data saving. At this time, the control unit 15 executes the data output process 40 shown in FIG. 3 in response to a control signal transmitted from the remote control unit 3.

[0062] In this data output process 40, the control unit 15 outputs the parameter data Dp and history data Dr stored in the storage unit 16 to the remote control unit 3 (step 41). In response to this, in the remote control unit 3, the control unit 25 sequentially stores the system data Ds and the parameter data Dp output from the device body 2 in the removable memory M (an example of the process of "storing the history data stored in the first storage unit in the second storage unit" and the process of "storing the control data stored in the first storage unit in the second storage unit"). In this example, "when an operation to instruct the start of data evacuation is performed" corresponds to "when a predefined second start condition is satisfied". In addition, when the control unit 25 completes the storage of the parameter data Dp and history data Dr transmitted from the device body 2 in the removable memory M, it transmits a control signal to the device body 2 (control unit 15) to notify that the storage has been completed.

[0063] Meanwhile, in the device body 2, when the control unit 15 completes the transmission of the parameter data Dp and the history data Dr to the remote control unit 3, it monitors whether a control signal notifying the completion of storage has been sent from the remote control unit 3 (control unit 25) (step 42). When the control signal is sent from the remote control unit 3 and it is determined that storage in the removable memory M has been completed, the control unit 15 deletes (erases) the parameter data Dp and the history data Dr stored in the storage unit 16 (one example of the process of "deleting the history data from the first storage unit" and the process of "deleting the control data from the first storage unit": step 43), and ends this data output process 40. In this example, both the processes of steps 41 and 43 correspond to the "second process".

[0064] As a result, the parameter data Dp required for adjusting the temperature in the replaced device main body 2 under the same operating conditions as the device main body 2 before replacement, and the history data Dr required for identifying the operating history of the device main body 2 before replacement are stored in the removable memory M of the remote control unit 3, and the parameter data Dp and history data Dr that can identify the manufacturing conditions and manufacturing status of the goods at the installation site of the device main body 2 are not stored in the memory unit 16 of the device main body 2. Therefore, when the device main body 2 before replacement is taken out of the installation site, a situation in which confidential information (parameter data Dp and history data Dr) is leaked is avoided.

[0065] In addition, although the storage unit 16 in the replaced device body 2 stores the system data Ds for the device body 2, it does not store information (parameter data Dp) necessary for starting temperature adjustment by the "adjustment unit" according to the conditions desired by the user, or information (history data Dr) that can identify the operation history of the device body 2 before the replacement. In this case, it is very cumbersome to operate the operation units 13, 23 in the replaced device body 2 to instruct (set) the operation conditions in order to execute temperature adjustment by the replaced device body 2 under the same conditions as the temperature adjustment executed by the replaced device body 2, and it is also necessary to take notes on the set values ​​of the operation conditions in order to accurately reproduce the operation conditions instructed (set) for the replaced device body 2. In addition, the operation history of the device body 2 before the replacement cannot be restored to the replaced device body 2 by operating the operation units 13, 23.

[0066] In contrast, in this example, the parameter data Dp and history data Dr saved from the device main body 2 (storage unit 16) before replacement are stored in the removable memory M of the remote control unit 3, and by restoring the parameter data Dp and history data Dr to the storage unit 16 in the device main body 2 after replacement, it is possible to resume temperature adjustment according to the operating conditions desired by the user without performing any cumbersome work. Specifically, the user instructs the start of data restoration by operating the operation unit 13 in the device main body 2 after replacement or the operation unit 23 of the remote control unit 3 connected to the device main body 2 after replacement. Note that in this example, "when an operation instructing the start of data restoration is performed" corresponds to "when a predefined third start condition is satisfied."

[0067] At this time, the control unit 15 in the device body 2 after replacement executes the data input process 50 shown in Fig. 4. In this data input process 50, the control unit 15 requests the remote control unit 3 to output the system data Ds, and in response, the control unit 25 of the remote control unit 3 outputs the system data Ds stored in the removable memory M to the device body 2 (acquisition of the system data Ds: step 51). This allows the system data Ds in which information about the device body 2 before replacement is recorded to be acquired. Next, the control unit 15 compares the acquired system data Ds (information about the device body 2 before replacement) with the system data Ds (information about the device body 2 after replacement) stored in the storage unit 16 to identify whether or not the control unit 15 itself (the device body 2 after replacement) is an apparatus capable of performing temperature adjustment based on the parameter data Dp set for the device body 2 before replacement (identification of whether or not it is a compatible apparatus: step 52).

[0068] At this time, if the replaced device body 2 is a device that cannot perform temperature adjustment based on the parameter data Dp for the device body 2 before replacement, the control unit 15 determines that the replaced device body 2 is not a compatible device and terminates this data input process 50. This avoids a situation in which the replaced device performs temperature adjustment based on the parameter data Dp that cannot be operated normally.

[0069] On the other hand, in this example where the replaced device main body 2 is the same type of device as the device main body 2 before replacement, the control unit 15 determines that the replaced device main body 2 is a compatible device based on the system data Ds output from the remote control unit 3 and the system data Ds stored in the storage unit 16 (an example of "when the model specified based on the model data stored in the second storage unit satisfies the predetermined allowable condition") and requests the remote control unit 3 to output the parameter data Dp and the history data Dr. In response to this, the control unit 25 of the remote control unit 3 outputs the parameter data Dp and the history data Dr stored in the removable memory M to the device main body 2.

[0070] Furthermore, in the device main body 2, the control unit 15 stores the parameter data Dp and history data Dr output from the remote control unit 3 in the storage unit 16 (input of the parameter data Dp and history data Dr: an example of the "third process" of "storing the control data stored in the second storage unit in the first storage unit" and "storing the history data stored in the second storage unit in the first storage unit": step 53), and ends this data input process 50. As a result, the parameter data Dp in which the operating conditions instructed (set) for the device main body 2 before replacement are recorded, and the history data Dr capable of identifying the operating history of the device main body 2 before replacement are restored in the storage unit 16 in the device main body 2 after replacement.

[0071] With the above, the replacement work of the device main body 2 is completed. After this, for example, by simply operating the operation unit 23 of the remote control unit 3 to instruct the start of temperature adjustment, the replaced device main body 2 performs temperature adjustment similar to the temperature adjustment performed by the device main body 2 before replacement, and the operation history of the replaced device main body 2 is accumulated in the storage unit 16 so as to be added to the operation history of the device main body 2 before replacement. Also, while the replaced device main body 2 is operating, the data output process 30 is executed, and the parameter data Dp and history data Dr are stored in the removable memory M of the remote control unit 3 as described above.

[0072] An example has been described in which the parameter data Dp and history data Dr stored in the removable memory M are used to restore the parameter data Dp and history data Dr to the device body 2 after replacement by instructing the start of data evacuation and executing the data output process 40 prior to the start of the replacement work of the device body 2. However, even if a malfunction or the like occurs in the device body 2 before replacement that makes it difficult for the control unit 15 to execute the data output process 40 and it is not possible to forcibly save the parameter data Dp and history data Dr (evacuation at any timing), the above-mentioned data output process 30 was executed in the device body 2 before replacement and the parameter data Dp and history data Dr were saved in the removable memory M of the remote control unit 3, so that the parameter data Dp and history data Dr can be used to restore the parameter data Dp and history data Dr to the device body 2 after replacement.

[0073] In this manner, in this air conditioning apparatus 1, the control units 15, 25 execute a "first process" in which the parameter data Dp stored in the memory unit 16 of the apparatus main body 2 is stored in the removable memory M attached to the memory attachment unit 26 of the remote control unit 3 while maintaining the state in which the parameter data Dp is stored in the memory unit 16, when a predefined "first start condition" is satisfied; they also execute a "second process" in which the parameter data Dp stored in the memory unit 16 is stored in the removable memory M and then deleted from the memory unit 16, when a predefined "second start condition" is satisfied; and they execute a "third process" in which the parameter data Dp stored in the removable memory M is stored in the memory unit 16, when a predefined "third start condition" is satisfied.

[0074] In addition, in this air conditioning device 1, the control units 15, 25 store history data Dr that can identify the control history of the "adjustment unit (refrigeration cycle 11 and blower fans 12a, 12b)" in the memory unit 16 at predetermined time intervals, execute a "fourth process" that stores the history data Dr in the removable memory M, and also store the history data Dr stored in the memory unit 16 in the "second process" in the removable memory M and then erase it from the memory unit 16, and store the history data Dr stored in the removable memory M in the memory unit 16 in the "third process".

[0075] Therefore, according to this air conditioning apparatus 1, when the apparatus main body 2 is replaced or when the apparatus main body 2 is all reset, not only can the parameter data Dp and history data Dr stored in the removable memory M of the remote control unit 3 be reliably and easily restored to the memory unit 16 of the apparatus main body 2 to be restarted, and the apparatus be returned to a usable state in a short time, but the parameter data Dp and history data Dr can be output from the apparatus main body 2 to the remote control unit 3 and stored in the removable memory M without connecting to a network such as a LAN or WAN, so that the parameter data Dp can be stored in the removable memory M of the remote control unit 3 without unnecessarily leaking the details of the temperature adjustment made by the apparatus main body 2. In addition, since the air conditioning apparatus 1 is not connected to a network, it is possible to preferably prevent the parameter data Dp, etc. from being read out by a malicious third party from the memory unit 16 of the apparatus main body 2 or the removable memory M of the remote control unit 3, data that may interfere with the normal operation of the air conditioning apparatus 1 being input to the air conditioning apparatus 1, and the normal operation of the apparatus main body 2 being interfered with by remote operation by a malicious third party.

[0076] Furthermore, in this air conditioning device 1, the control units 15, 25 encrypt the parameter data Dp and history data Dr according to a predetermined encryption procedure and store them in the removable memory M, and also decrypt the parameter data Dp and history data Dr stored in the removable memory M according to a predetermined decryption procedure and store them in the storage unit 16. Therefore, according to this air conditioning device 1, even if the parameter data Dp and history data Dr are read out from the removable memory M of the remote control unit 3, the read out parameter data Dp and history data Dr cannot be analyzed, and this makes it possible to reliably prevent the leakage of information that should be kept secret.

[0077] Furthermore, in this air conditioning device 1, the control units 15, 25 execute a "fifth process" for storing system data Ds capable of identifying the model of the device main body 2 in the removable memory M, and in a "third process", store the parameter data Dp and history data Dr stored in the removable memory M in the storage unit 16 when the model identified based on the system data Ds stored in the removable memory M satisfies predefined "acceptable conditions". Therefore, according to this air conditioning device 1, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the parameter data Dp and history data Dr are output from the remote control unit 3 to a "device main body" of a model that cannot operate normally with the parameter data Dp stored in the removable memory M of the remote control unit 3.

[0078] Furthermore, according to this air conditioning device 1, the remote control unit 3 is equipped with a memory mounting unit 26 to which a removable memory can be attached as a "second storage unit," so that an authorized user can remove the removable memory M from the remote control unit 3 (memory mounting unit 26) and easily read out the parameter data Dp and history data Dr from the removable memory M using an information processing terminal that performs analysis.

[0079] It should be noted that the configuration of the "adjustment device" is not limited to the example configuration of the air conditioner 1 described above.

[0080] For example, a configuration has been described in which the control unit 15 determines that a "predetermined first start condition is satisfied" and executes the "fifth process" or the "first process" when "an instruction is given to start temperature adjustment by the adjustment unit" or "when a prespecified (set) start time arrives." However, instead of such a configuration, a configuration can be adopted in which the control unit 15 determines that a "first start condition" is satisfied and executes the "fifth process" or the "first process" when, for example, "power is turned on to the device main body 2" or "when an instruction to execute the process is given by operating the operation units 13, 23."

[0081] Also, an example of a method of use and a configuration in which history data Dr capable of identifying the operation history of the "adjustment unit" in the device main body 2 is stored in the storage unit 16 and sequentially output to the remote control unit 3 and stored in the removable memory M has been described, but when used in an environment in which confirmation of the operation history is not required, it is possible to use without generating and storing the history data Dr, or to adopt a configuration in which the history data Dr is not generated and stored. Also, an example of a method of use and a configuration in which the control unit 25 encrypts various data when storing it in the removable memory M, and decrypts the data when outputting the data from the remote control unit 3 to the device main body 2 (when inputting the data into the device main body 2) has been described, but it is also possible to operate without performing these encryptions and decryptions, or to adopt a configuration in which no encryption or decryption is performed.

[0082] In addition, an example of a method of use and configuration in which the control unit 15 determines whether or not the device is compatible based on the system data Ds stored in the removable memory M prior to inputting the parameter data Dp and history data Dr stored in the removable memory M of the remote control unit 3 into the device main body 2 (the determination process of step 52 in the data input process 50 described above) has been explained, but it is also possible to operate the device so as not to perform such a determination process, or to adopt a configuration in which no determination process is performed.

[0083] In addition, the configuration of a "temperature adjustment device (a device that adjusts temperature without operating for the purpose of adjusting humidity)" that adjusts the temperature of a gas such as air has been described as an example, but a "humidity adjustment device (a device that adjusts humidity without operating for the purpose of adjusting temperature)" that adjusts the humidity of a gas such as air, and a "temperature and humidity adjustment device (a device that operates for the purpose of adjusting both temperature and humidity)" that adjusts the temperature and humidity of a gas such as air can also be configured to be able to execute data output processing 30, 40 and data input processing 50 similar to those of the above air conditioner 1. Similarly, an "adjustment device (temperature adjustment device)" that adjusts the temperature of liquids such as water and antifreeze can also be configured to be able to execute data output processing 30, 40 and data input processing 50 similar to those of the above air conditioner 1. [Explanation of symbols]

[0084] 1. Air conditioning equipment 2. Device body 3 Remote control unit 11 Refrigeration cycle 11a Compressor 11b Condenser 11c Expansion valve 11d Evaporator 12a, 12b Blower fan 13,23 Operation section 14,24 Display section 15,25 Control section 16 Memory section 26 Memory mounting section 30,40 Data output processing 50 Data Entry Processing Dp Parameter Data Dr. History Data Ds System Data M Removable Memory

Claims

1. an adjusting unit that adjusts at least one of the temperature and humidity of a fluid to be adjusted; A control unit that controls the adjustment unit based on control data to adjust at least one of the above. An adjustment device comprising a storage unit that stores the control data, an apparatus main body in which the adjustment unit, the control unit, and a first storage unit serving as the storage unit are disposed; a remote control unit having an operation unit capable of instructing a value of the control data and a second storage unit as the storage unit, the remote control unit being configured separately from the device main body and being directly connected to the device main body; The control unit is a first process for storing the control data in the second storage unit while maintaining the control data stored in the first storage unit when a first start condition that is specified in advance is satisfied; executing a second process of storing the control data stored in the first storage unit in the second storage unit and then erasing the control data from the first storage unit when a second start condition that is specified in advance is satisfied; An adjustment device that executes a third process of storing the control data stored in the second memory unit in the first memory unit when a predetermined third start condition is satisfied.

2. The control unit executes a fourth process of storing history data capable of identifying the control history of the adjustment unit in the first memory unit at a predetermined time interval and storing the history data in the second memory unit, and also erases the history data stored in the first memory unit in the second process after storing the history data stored in the first memory unit in the second memory unit, and stores the history data stored in the second memory unit in the first memory unit in the third process.

3. 3. The adjustment device according to claim 2, wherein the control unit encrypts the control data and the history data according to a predetermined encryption procedure and stores them in the second memory unit, and decrypts the control data and the history data stored in the second memory unit according to a predetermined decryption procedure and stores them in the first memory unit.

4. The control unit executes a fifth process of storing model data capable of identifying the model of the device main body in the second memory unit, and in the third process, stores the control data and the history data stored in the second memory unit in the first memory unit when the model identified based on the model data stored in the second memory unit satisfies predetermined tolerance conditions.

5. 5. The adjustment device according to claim 1, wherein the remote control unit includes a memory mounting unit capable of mounting a removable memory as the second storage unit.

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