Adjusting device

Abstract

To make it possible to obtain data, by which the operation state of a device body, etc. can be identified, even in the state that electric power supply to the device body is cut off, while reliably avoiding leakage of information by which the operation state of a device can be identified.SOLUTION: A remote control unit 3 is configured to be capable of operating while receiving electric power supply from "a second supply source" different from "a first supply source", when electric power supply to a device body 2 is cut off from "the first supply source" that is the source of electric power supply to the device body 2. A control unit 25 is configured to be capable of, while using electric power supplied from "the second supply source", executing "first processing" and "second processing" of reading out parameter data Dp and history data Dr from a memory unit 16 and storing the read-out parameter data Dp and history data Dr in a removable memory M, in the state that electric power supply to the device body 2 is cut off from "the first supply unit".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, as described in the above patent document, when using this type of air conditioner (temperature adjustment device), in order to grasp the operating state of the air conditioner, data on the operating conditions and operating state is acquired and analyzed in detail. In particular, when using an air conditioner installed at a manufacturing site of goods or a production site of agricultural and livestock products, the accumulation and analysis of this data is very important for manufacturing and production management. In this case, as described above, in the configuration disclosed in the above patent document, it is possible to read the necessary data from the air conditioner (information processing device connected to the air conditioner) to an information terminal via a network and accumulate and analyze the data. However, when the air conditioner is used alone in an environment where connection to a network is not permitted, it is necessary to output the data necessary for analysis from the air conditioner, for example by directly connecting an information terminal to the terminal part of the air conditioner.

[0015] In manufacturing and production sites where the above-mentioned air conditioners (temperature control devices) are installed, a power supply system that supplies power to manufacturing and production equipment, air conditioners, etc., and a power supply system that supplies power to electric lights and various management devices (personal computers, etc.) are installed separately. In addition, in these types of manufacturing and production sites, the power supply system is divided into multiple channels to prevent the power supply to all equipment from being cut off (all equipment being stopped) when a breaker (circuit breaker) is activated due to an abnormality or overload occurring in some equipment, and to enable selective cutting off of the power supply to some equipment to ensure safety during inspection and maintenance work, for example.

[0016] However, when an information terminal is directly connected to the terminal section of an air conditioner to output necessary data, if the channel supplying power to the air conditioner is cut off and the power source is lost, the data necessary for accumulation and analysis cannot be output from the stopped air conditioner to the information terminal even if power is continuously supplied to the channels supplying power to other devices or to the power supply system supplying power to lights and various management devices, etc. For this reason, with a configuration such as the air conditioner disclosed in the above patent document, there is a problem that necessary data cannot be obtained from the air conditioner until the power supply to the air conditioner is resumed and the air conditioner becomes operable.

[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 objective is to provide an adjustment device that can obtain data that can identify the operating status of the device main body even when the power supply to the device main body is cut off, while reliably avoiding the leakage of information that can identify the operating status 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 including an adjustment unit that adjusts at least one of temperature and humidity of a fluid to be adjusted, a first 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 being configured to include a device main body in which the adjustment unit, the first control unit, and a first storage unit as the storage unit are disposed, and a remote control device configured separately from the device main body in which an operation unit capable of instructing a value of the control data, a second storage unit as the storage unit, and a second control unit are disposed. and an operating unit, wherein the remote control unit is configured to be operable by receiving power from a second supply source different from a first supply source which is a power supply source for the device main body when the supply of power to the device main body from the first supply source is cut off, and the second control unit is configured to execute a first process of reading the control data from the first memory unit using power supplied from the second supply source when the supply of power from the first supply source to the device main body is cut off, and storing the read control data in the second memory unit.

[0020] The adjustment device according to claim 2 is an adjustment device comprising an adjustment unit that adjusts at least one of temperature and humidity of a fluid to be adjusted, a first control unit that controls the adjustment unit to adjust the at least one of the temperature and humidity and generates history data that can identify a control history of the adjustment unit, and a storage unit that stores the history data, the adjustment unit, the first control unit, and a first storage unit as the storage unit being disposed in an apparatus main body, and an operation unit that can instruct a control mode of the adjustment unit by the first control unit, a second storage unit as the storage unit, and a second control unit being disposed in the apparatus main body separately from the apparatus main body. and a remote control unit configured in a main body, the remote control unit being configured to be operable by receiving power from a second supply source different from a first supply source that is a power supply source for the device main body when the supply of power to the device main body from the first supply source is cut off, and the second control unit being configured to execute a second process of reading the history data from the first memory unit using power supplied from the second supply source when the supply of power to the device main body from the first supply source is cut off and storing the read history data in the second memory unit.

[0021] An adjustment device according to a third aspect of the present invention is the adjustment device according to the first or second aspect, 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

[0022] In the adjustment device described in claim 1, the remote control unit is configured to be operable by receiving power from a second supply source different from the first supply source that is the source of power supply to the device main body when the supply of power to the device main body from the first supply source is cut off, and the second control unit is configured to be capable of executing a first process of reading control data from the first memory unit using power supplied from the second supply source and storing the read control data in the second memory unit when the supply of power from the first supply source to the device main body is cut off.

[0023] In addition, in the adjustment device described in claim 2, the remote control unit is configured to be operable by receiving power from a second supply source different from the first supply source that is a source of power supply to the device main body when the supply of power to the device main body from the first supply source is cut off, and the second control unit is configured to be capable of executing a second process of reading history data from the first memory unit using power supplied from the second supply source and storing the read history data in the second memory unit when the supply of power from the first supply source to the device main body is cut off.

[0024] Therefore, according to the adjustment device of claims 1 and 2, it is possible to reliably and easily obtain control data and history data from the first storage unit of the device main body that is in an inoperable state due to the power supply from the first supply source being cut off (read from the first storage unit and store in the second storage unit). This makes it possible to analyze the control data and history data stored in the second storage unit and quickly determine whether the device main body was operating normally until the power supply was cut off, without waiting for the power supply to the device main body to be resumed. In addition, since 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, 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 through remote control by a malicious third party.

[0025] According to the adjustment device described in claim 3, 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]

[0026] [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] 11 is a flowchart of a data acquisition process 30 executed by a control unit 25 of the remote control unit 3. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0027] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the adjustment device will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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, a storage unit 16, and a power supply unit 17. 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, a memory mounting unit 26, and a power supply unit 27. In this case, in the air conditioning device 1 of this example, the remote control unit 3 is connected to the device main body 2 via a signal cable having a length within a range of about 20 m to 50 m and a power supply cable (not shown), for example, and the device main body 2 and the remote control unit 3 are directly connected to each other without going through a network such as a LAN or WAN to transmit and receive various data, and the remote control unit 3 is configured to supply power required for acquiring data to the device main body 2 from the remote control unit 3 when the power supply to the device main body 2 is cut off.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] The control unit 15 controls the device main body 2 in an overall manner. Specifically, the control unit 15 corresponds to a "first control unit that controls the adjustment unit based on control data to adjust at least one of the temperature and humidity," and controls the compressor 11a, expansion valve 11c, and 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). In this case, the parameter data Dp is an example of "control data," and is generated and changed by the control unit 15 when various operating conditions such as the start time / end time and target temperature of the temperature adjustment by the "adjustment unit (refrigeration cycle 11 and blower fans 12a, 12b)" are instructed and changed by the operation of the operation units 13, 23, etc., and is stored in the storage unit 16.

[0035] The control unit 15 also generates operation status data Dd capable of identifying the operation status of the device body 2, and displays the operation status on the display unit 14 based on the operation status data Dd, while sequentially outputting the operation status data Dd to the remote control unit 3 to display the operation status of the device body 2 on the display unit 24 of the remote control unit 3. In this case, the operation status data Dd includes a target temperature (set temperature), an actual temperature, and information capable of identifying whether each part of the device body 2 is operating normally. The control unit 15 corresponds to a "first control unit that controls the adjustment unit to adjust at least one of the temperature and humidity, and generates history data capable of identifying the control history of the adjustment unit," and generates history data Dr capable of identifying the control history of the refrigeration cycle 11 and the blower fans 12a and 12b, as described later, and stores the history data Dr in the storage unit 16, etc. In this case, the historical data Dr is an example of "historical data," and records information such as the target temperature (set temperature), the start time / end time of temperature adjustment by the "adjustment unit," the control values ​​sent to the refrigeration cycle 11 and the blower fans 12a, 12b, and the actual measured temperature (the temperature of the adjusted air).

[0036] The storage unit 16 is an example of a "first storage unit as a storage unit" and stores system data Ds, parameter data Dp, history data Dr, and the like that can identify the operating program of the control unit 15, the serial number assigned to the device main body 2, and the version number of the stored operating program. The power supply unit 17 receives power from, for example, three-phase 200V AC commercial AC or a private power generation facility (an example of a "first supply source that is a source of power supply for the device main body") under the control of the control unit 15, and supplies the necessary power to each part of the device main body 2.

[0037] Meanwhile, operation unit 23 is an example of "an operation unit capable of instructing the value of control data" and "an operation unit capable of instructing the control mode of the adjustment unit by the first control unit", 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.

[0038] The control unit 25 controls the remote control unit 3 in an overall manner. Specifically, the control unit 25 transmits an operation signal output from the operation unit 23 to the device body 2, and causes the display unit 24 to display the operation status of the device body 2 (for example, information displayed on the display unit 14 described above) based on the operation status data Dd sequentially output from the device body 2. The control unit 25 is an example of a "second control unit" and executes a data acquisition process 30 shown in FIG. 2, and when the supply of power to the device body 2 is cut off, causes the power supply unit 27 to supply power to the device body 2, reads out the system data Ds, the parameter data Dp, and the history data Dr from the storage unit 16 of the device body 2, and stores them in the removable memory M. The data acquisition process 30 will be described in detail later.

[0039] 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 have a 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. The power supply unit 27 receives power from, as an example, a single-phase 100V AC commercial AC or a private power generation facility (an example of a "second supply source different from the first supply source") under the control of the control unit 25 to supply the necessary power to each unit of the remote control unit 3 (an example of a configuration in which "when the supply of power from the first supply source, which is the source of power for the device body, to the device body is cut off, the power supply unit 27 is configured to be able to operate by receiving power from the second supply source different from the first supply source"), and supplies power to the device body 2 as described later.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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 and a power supply 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] Furthermore, in the air conditioner 1 of this example, the control unit 15, in parallel with the control of the "adjustment unit" as described above, 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) to generate history data Dr, and storing 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 predetermined time intervals (predetermined cycles). 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.

[0047] Furthermore, in the air conditioning device 1 of this example, regardless of whether the control unit 15 is performing temperature adjustment by the "adjustment unit" as described above, when power is supplied to the power supply unit 17 and the device body 2 is operating, the control unit 15 generates operation status data Dd capable of identifying the operation status of the device body 2 at a predetermined cycle, and based on this operation status data Dd, causes the display unit 14 to display and successively update the operation status of the device body 2, while continuously executing a process of outputting the generated operation status data Dd to the remote control unit 3 and causing the display unit 24 to display and successively update the operation status of the device body 2. As a result, information capable of identifying the operation status of the device body 2 is displayed not only on the display unit 14 of the device body 2 but also on the display unit 24 of the remote control unit 3, and the operation status of the device body 2 can be ascertained by looking at the display unit 24 of the remote control unit 3 without entering the installation location of the device body 2.

[0048] On the other hand, as described above, in the usage environment of the air conditioner 1, etc., the power supply to some of the equipment may be cut off during inspection and maintenance of the equipment, or a circuit breaker may be activated due to an abnormality or overload occurring in some of the equipment, cutting off the power supply. Here, for example, when the power supply from the "first supply source" of three-phase AC 200V to the power supply unit 17 of the device main body 2 is cut off, not only is it impossible to perform temperature adjustment by the "adjustment unit," but the control unit 15 is in a stopped state, and it is also impossible to display various information on the display unit 14 or read various data from the memory unit 16 by the control unit 15.

[0049] However, regardless of whether the power supply to the device main body 2 (power supply unit 17) is intentionally stopped, in order to analyze whether the temperature adjustment by the device main body 2 is performed normally, it is necessary to acquire the operation status data Dd and the like stored in the memory unit 16 of the device main body 2. Therefore, in the air conditioner 1 of this example, as described above, a configuration is adopted in which the power supply unit 27 of the remote control unit 3 receives power from a "second supply source" of single-phase AC 100V, which is different from the power supply source (first supply source) for the power supply unit 17 of the device main body 2, under the control of the control unit 25, and supplies the necessary power to each unit of the remote control unit 3. As a result, in the air conditioner 1 of this example, even if the power supply from the "first supply source" is cut off, as long as the power supply from the "second supply source" is continued, it is possible to operate the remote control unit 3 and acquire various data from the device main body 2.

[0050] Specifically, in the air conditioning device 1 of this example, the control unit 25 of the remote control unit 3 executes a data acquisition process 30 shown in Fig. 2. In this data acquisition process 30, the control unit 25 monitors whether or not communication with the device main body 2 (control unit 15) has been interrupted (step 31). In this case, as described above, when power is supplied from the "first supply source" to the device main body 2 and the device main body 2 is operated, the control unit 15 generates operation status data Dd that can identify the operation status of the device main body 2 at a predetermined period and sequentially outputs it to the remote control unit 3. Therefore, when the operation status data Dd is output from the device main body 2 to the remote control unit 3, it can be determined that communication with the device main body 2 has not been interrupted and that the device main body 2 is operating (the supply of power to the device main body 2 has not been interrupted).

[0051] On the other hand, when the power supply to the device body 2 is cut off and the device body 2 is in a stopped state, communication with the device body 2 is cut off and the device body 2 is in a stopped state, and the operation status data Dd is not output. Therefore, when the state where the operation status data Dd is not output from the device body 2 continues for a predetermined time, the control unit 25 determines that the communication with the device body 2 is cut off (the power supply to the device body 2 is cut off and the device body 2 is in a stopped state), and controls the power supply unit 27 to start supplying power to the device body 2 (step 32). At this time, the power supply unit 27, as an example, directly supplies power obtained by AC / DC converting the power supplied from the "second supply source" to a power line of a mounting board (not shown) of the storage unit 16 in the device body 2, thereby making it possible to read various data from the storage unit 16 (activation of the memory controller, etc.).

[0052] Next, the control unit 25 switches (step 33) from the communication path through which the control unit 15 outputs various data in the normal state (a state in which power is supplied to the device main body 2 and the control unit 15 periodically outputs operating status data Dd) to a communication path through which the control unit 25 acquires various data from the memory unit 16 when the power supply to the device main body 2 is cut off (hereinafter also referred to as the "power-off communication path").

[0053] Next, the control unit 25 reads out the system data Ds, the parameter data Dp and the history data Dr from the memory unit 16 via the power-off communication path, and stores the read-out data Ds, Dp, and Dr in the removable memory M (an example of "a first process of reading control data from the first memory unit using power supplied from the second supply source when the supply of power from the first supply source to the device body is cut off, and storing the read-out control data in the second memory unit" and "a second process of reading history data from the first memory unit using power supplied from the second supply source when the supply of power from the first supply source to the device body is cut off, and storing the read-out history data in the second memory unit": step 34). As a result, when the power supply to the device main body 2 is cut off, both data Dp, Dr capable of identifying the operating state of the device main body 2 immediately before the power supply to the device main body 2 was cut off, and system data Ds capable of identifying the device main body 2 that generated the data Dp, Dr are stored in the remote control unit 3 (removable memory M).

[0054] 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, the removable memory M can be removed from the remote control unit 3 (memory attachment unit 26) and the parameter data Dp and history data Dr in the removable memory M can be analyzed using various information processing terminals to identify the operating state of the device main body 2 until the power supply to the device main body 2 is cut off and the device transitions to a stopped state. This makes it possible to check whether the air temperature in the location where the device main body 2 is installed has been properly adjusted (whether a product that should be temperature-controlled during manufacturing and production has been manufactured and produced in a normal environment) without waiting for the power supply to the device main body 2 (power supply unit 17) to be resumed.

[0055] Unlike the configuration of this example, even if the "second memory unit" of the "remote control unit" is configured with a built-in memory or the like that cannot be removed from the "remote control unit," 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," it is possible to confirm whether the air temperature in the installation location of the device main body 2 was properly adjusted until the power supply to the device main body 2 was cut off and the device transitioned to a stopped state.

[0056] On the other hand, when the control unit 25 has completed reading out each data Ds, Dp, and Dr and storing them in the removable memory M, it controls the power supply unit 27 to stop the power supply to the device body 2 (step 35) and switches from the power-off communication path to the normal communication path (step 36). After this, the control unit 25 monitors whether the communication with the device body 2 has been restored (whether the power supply to the device body 2 has been resumed and the control unit 15 has become in a state where the operation status data Dd, etc. can be output) (step 37), and when the communication has been restored (when the operation status data Dd has been output), it returns to the above step 31 and continues monitoring whether the communication with the device body 2 has been interrupted.

[0057] In this case, in the state where the operation is stopped due to a power cut to the device main body 2 (power supply unit 17), the air conditioning device 1 of this example can store each data Ds, Dp, Dr from the device main body 2 (storage unit 16) to the removable memory M of the remote control unit 3 as described above, and can analyze each data Ds, Dp, Dr stored in the removable memory M to identify whether the power supply was cut off due to a malfunction of the device main body 2 (whether the breaker to which the power supply unit 17 is connected has been activated). Therefore, when it is identified that the power supply was cut off due to a malfunction of the device main body 2, it is possible to prevent the device main body 2 from starting operation when the power supply is resumed, or to operate the device main body 2 in an operation mode (for example, operation at a low load) that will not cause the power supply to be cut off again.

[0058] In this manner, in this air conditioning device 1, the remote control unit 3 is configured to be operable by receiving power from a "second supply source" different from the "first supply source," which is the source of power supply to the device main body 2, when the supply of power to the device main body 2 from the "first supply source" is cut off, and the control unit 25 is configured to be capable of executing a "first process" which reads parameter data Dp from the memory unit 16 using power supplied from the "second supply source" when the supply of power from the "first supply source" to the device main body 2 is cut off, and stores the read parameter data Dp in the removable memory M.

[0059] Furthermore, in this air conditioning device 1, the remote control unit 3 is configured to be able to operate by receiving power from a "second supply source" different from the "first supply source," which is the source of power supply to the device main body 2, when the supply of power to the device main body 2 from the "first supply source" is cut off, and the control unit 25 is configured to be able to execute a "second process" which reads out the history data Dr from the memory unit 16 using power supplied from the "second supply source" when the supply of power from the "first supply source" to the device main body 2 is cut off and stores the read out history data Dr in the removable memory M.

[0060] Therefore, according to this air conditioning device 1, it is possible to reliably and easily obtain the parameter data Dp and history data Dr from the storage unit 16 of the device main body 2 that is in an inoperable state due to the power supply from the "first supply source" being cut off (read from the storage unit 16 and store in the removable memory M). This makes it possible to analyze the parameter data Dp and history data Dr stored in the removable memory M, without waiting for the power supply to the device main body 2 to be resumed, and quickly determine whether or not the device main body 2 was operating normally until the power supply was cut off. Furthermore, since the parameter data Dp and history data Dr can be output from the device 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, the parameter data Dp can be stored in the removable memory M of the remote control unit 3 without unnecessarily leaking the contents of the temperature adjustment by the device main body 2. In addition, since it is not connected to a network, it is possible to preferably prevent a malicious third party from reading out the parameter data Dp, etc. from the memory unit 16 of the device main body 2 or the removable memory M of the remote control unit 3, inputting data that may interfere with the normal operation of the air conditioning apparatus 1 into the air conditioning apparatus 1, or interfering with the normal operation of the device main body 2 through remote control by a malicious third party.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] For example, an example has been described in which the device main body 2 (power supply unit 17) operates using power from a three-phase AC 200V power supply source as a "first supply source" and the remote control unit 3 (power supply unit 27) operates using power from a single-phase AC 100V power supply source as a "second supply source", but the "first supply source" and "second supply source" are not limited to this example.

[0064] In addition, an example has been described in which the remote control unit 3 (power supply unit 27) operates using power supplied from a "second supply source" regardless of whether the supply of power from the "first supply source" to the device main body 2 (power supply unit 17) is cut off or not. However, instead of such a configuration, a configuration can be adopted in which, when power is being supplied from the "first supply source" to the device main body 2 (power supply unit 17), the remote control unit 3 (power supply unit 27) operates using power supplied from the same "first supply source" as the device main body 2, and when the supply of power from the "first supply source" to the device main body 2 (power supply unit 17) is cut off, the remote control unit 3 (power supply unit 27) operates using power supplied from a "second supply source" different from the "first supply source."

[0065] In addition, when the power supply to the device body 2 is cut off, the control unit 25 of the remote control unit 3 executes both the "first process" of acquiring parameter data Dp from the storage unit 16 of the device body 2 and the "second process" of acquiring history data Dr from the storage unit 16, but it is also possible to adopt a configuration in which only the "first process" is executed without executing the "second process", or a configuration in which only the "second process" is executed without executing the "first process". In addition, an example of a configuration in which history data Dr capable of identifying the operation history of the "adjustment unit" in the device body 2 is stored in the storage unit 16 has been described, but when used in an environment in which confirmation of the operation history is not required, it is possible to use the device without generating and storing the history data Dr, or to adopt a configuration in which the history data Dr is not generated and stored.

[0066] 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 acquisition processing 30 similar to that of the air conditioner 1 described above. 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 acquisition processing 30 similar to that of the air conditioner 1 described above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0067] 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 17,27 Power supply section 26 Memory mounting section 30 Data Acquisition Processing Dd Operation status data 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 first control unit that controls the adjustment unit based on control data to adjust at least one of the first and second control units; An adjustment device comprising a storage unit that stores the control data, an apparatus main body in which the adjustment unit, the first control unit, and a first storage unit serving as the storage unit are disposed; a remote control unit configured separately from the device body and including an operation unit capable of instructing a value of the control data, a second storage unit as the storage unit, and a second control unit; the remote control unit is configured to be operable by receiving power from a second supply source different from a first supply source that is a source of power for the device body when the supply of power from the first supply source to the device body is cut off; The second control unit is configured to execute a first process of reading the control data from the first memory unit using power supplied from the second supply source when the supply of power from the first supply source to the device main body is cut off, and storing the read control data in the second memory unit.

2. an adjusting unit that adjusts at least one of the temperature and humidity of a fluid to be adjusted; a first control unit that controls the adjustment unit to adjust the at least one of the two and generates history data that can identify a control history of the adjustment unit; An adjustment device comprising a storage unit that stores the history data, an apparatus main body in which the adjustment unit, the first control unit, and a first storage unit serving as the storage unit are disposed; an operation unit capable of instructing a control mode of the adjustment unit by the first control unit, a second storage unit as the storage unit, and a remote control unit configured separately from the device main body and having the second control unit disposed therein; the remote control unit is configured to be operable by receiving power from a second supply source different from a first supply source that is a source of power for the device body when the supply of power from the first supply source to the device body is cut off; The second control unit is configured to execute a second process of reading the history data from the first memory unit using power supplied from the second supply source when the supply of power from the first supply source to the device main body is cut off, and storing the read history data in the second memory unit.

3. 3. 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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