Air conditioner remote controller, remote controller control method, and remote controller program

Abstract

To enable setting and information display of several kinds of air conditioners to be performed in simple operation with one remote controller.SOLUTION: An air conditioner remote controller has: a display unit; an operation unit which receives user operation; and a control unit which controls screen output to the display part and instructs several types of air conditioners to conduct operation contents. The control unit displays, on a home screen, main device setting information which indicates setting contents of a cooling / heating device which is a main device and does not display information of the setting contents of other air conditioners. If predefined first operation is received from the operation unit when the home screen is displayed, a main device setting screen which is a setting screen of the cooling / heating device is displayed. When predefined second operation is received from the operation unit, a menu screen for selecting which kind of operation contents of the air conditioner is set is displayed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner remote controller, a remote controller control method, and a remote controller program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an air conditioning system that enables easy command input for a plurality of remote controllers. This air conditioning system includes a plurality of remote controllers respectively associated with each of a plurality of indoor units provided in a target space. Each remote controller receives, from a terminal device, a command regarding the corresponding indoor unit or the settings of the remote controller.

[0003] Each remote controller in the above conventional air conditioning system is associated with one indoor unit and makes settings for that one indoor unit. On the other hand, when a plurality of types of air conditioning devices (for example, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) devices, air purification devices, and ventilation devices, etc.) are provided in the target space, it is convenient if the settings of the above plurality of types of air conditioning devices can be made by one remote controller.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioner remote controller, a remote controller control method, and a remote controller program that can perform the settings of a plurality of types of air conditioning devices provided in a target space in an easy - to - understand operation using one remote controller.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The air conditioner remote controller in the present disclosure is an air conditioner remote controller that instructs the operation content to a plurality of types of air conditioning devices, and includes a display unit having a display panel, an operation unit having a plurality of operation buttons operated by a user to receive a user operation, a control unit that controls screen output to the display unit and instructs each operation content to the plurality of types of air conditioning devices communicably connected thereto. The control unit displays, on a home screen displayed on the display unit, main device setting information which is information about current setting contents regarding a heating and cooling device defined in advance as a main device among the plurality of types of air conditioning devices, and does not display information about current setting contents regarding other types of air conditioning devices not defined as the main device. When the home screen is being displayed on the display unit and a first operation defined in advance is received from the operation unit, a main device setting screen which is a screen for changing the setting of the heating and cooling device which is the main device is displayed on the display unit. When a second operation defined in advance is received from the operation unit, a menu screen for selecting which type of air conditioning device to set the operation content for is displayed.

[0007] Also, the remote controller control method in the present disclosure is a remote controller control method executed by a computer of an air conditioner remote controller that instructs operation contents to a plurality of types of air conditioners, the air conditioner remote controller including a display unit having a display panel and an operation unit having operation buttons operated by a user to receive user operations. The method includes a home screen display step of displaying a home screen on the display unit, and an operation-specific display step of displaying an operation-specific screen corresponding to the received user operation on the display unit when the user operation is received by the operation unit while the home screen is being displayed. In the home screen display step, main device setting information, which is information about current setting contents regarding a heating and cooling device defined in advance as a main device among the plurality of types of air conditioners, is displayed on the home screen, and information about current setting contents regarding other types of air conditioners not defined as the main device is not displayed. In the operation-specific display step, when a predefined first operation is received from the operation unit while the home screen is being displayed on the display unit, a main device setting screen, which is a screen for changing the settings of the heating and cooling device that is the main device, is displayed on the display unit, and when a predefined second operation is received from the operation unit, a menu screen for selecting which type of air conditioner's operation contents to set is displayed.

[0008] In addition, the remote controller program in the present disclosure causes a computer of a terminal device including a display unit having a display panel and an operation unit that receives user operations to function as a control unit that controls screen output to the display unit and instructs respective operation contents to a plurality of types of air conditioners communicably connected thereto. The control unit displays, on a home screen displayed on the display unit, main device setting information which is information about current setting contents regarding a heating / cooling device determined in advance as a main device among the plurality of types of air conditioners, and does not display information about current setting contents regarding other types of air conditioners not determined as the main device. When the home screen is being displayed on the display unit and a first operation defined in advance is received from the operation unit, a main device setting screen which is a screen for changing settings of the heating / cooling device which is the main device is displayed on the display unit. When a second operation defined in advance is received from the operation unit, a menu screen for selecting which type of air conditioner operation contents are to be set is displayed.

Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the air conditioner remote controller, remote controller control method, and remote controller program in the present disclosure, settings of a plurality of types of air conditioners including a heating / cooling device can be performed by an easy-to-understand operation using one remote controller.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] (Knowledge, etc. on which the present disclosure is based) When the inventors arrived at the idea of the present disclosure, there was a technology for setting the above-mentioned multiple types of air conditioners using a plurality of remote controllers that were 1:1 associated with each of the plurality of air conditioners provided in the target space. On the one hand, it is convenient for users to be able to operate multiple types of air conditioners with a single remote controller. However, when operating multiple types of air conditioners with a single remote controller, since there is a limit to the size of the display screen of the remote controller, it is difficult to perform the settings and information display of multiple types of devices on one screen. Also, when switching the screens corresponding to each device one by one and sequentially operating these multiple devices, the operation on the remote controller becomes complicated, and it is difficult to understand how to display the screen for making the desired settings for the desired device. The inventors discovered the problems in operating multiple types of air conditioners with a single remote controller as described above, and in order to solve those problems, they came to configure the subject matter of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure provides an air conditioner remote controller, a remote controller control method, and a remote controller program that can perform the settings of multiple types of air conditioners provided in a target space using a single remote controller with an easy-to-understand operation.

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, there may be cases where more detailed explanations than necessary are omitted. For example, there may be cases where the detailed explanation of already well-known matters or the duplicate explanation for substantially the same configuration is omitted. Note that the attached drawings and the following explanations are provided for those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims thereby.

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described. [1. Configuration] [1-1. Configuration of the air conditioning system] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an air conditioning system 2 in which the air conditioner remote controller 1 of the embodiment is used. The air conditioning system 2 includes an air conditioner remote controller 1 and a plurality of types of air conditioning devices provided in a target space S provided inside a building such as a residence or a facility. In the present embodiment, the plurality of types of air conditioning devices are three types: a heating and cooling device 3, an air purifying device 4, and a ventilation device 5. Note that the number of types of air conditioning devices included in the air conditioning system 2 can be any number of 1 or more. For example, the target space S may be provided with two types of air conditioning devices, namely, the heating and cooling device 3 and either the air purifying device 4 or the ventilation device 5.

[0014] The ventilation device 5 not only introduces outside air from the outside of the building where the target space S is located into the target space S and / or discharges indoor air from the target space S to the outside of the building, but may also be provided with a heat exchanger and have a function of heat exchange ventilation for performing heat exchange between the introduced outside air and the discharged indoor air.

[0015] In the present embodiment, inside the target space S, there are provided four heating and cooling devices 3, three air purifying devices 4, and three ventilation devices 5. However, this is just an example, and the number of each of the heating and cooling devices 3, air purifying devices 4, and ventilation devices 5 provided in the target space S can be any number of 1 or more. The four heating and cooling devices 3 can be configured, for example, as a so-called multi-air conditioner that operates by being connected to a single outdoor unit (not shown).

[0016] The air conditioning system 2 also includes an air quality sensor 6 provided in the target space S. The air quality sensor 6 is a so-called IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) sensor, and detects, for example, the temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide concentration in the target space S as parameters representing the quality of the air in the target space S.

[0017] The air conditioner remote controller 1 is communicably connected to each of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) device 3, the air purifying device 4, the ventilation device 5, and the air quality sensor 6 by wired communication or wireless communication. In the present embodiment, the air conditioner remote controller 1 is communicably connected to each of the HVAC device 3, the air purifying device 4, the ventilation device 5, and the air quality sensor 6 by wired communication conforming to the UART communication standard via, for example, a communication line 7.

[0018] Note that in the configuration of the air conditioning system 2 shown in FIG. 1, the three air purifying devices 4 are connected in series via another communication line 8, and only the leftmost air purifying device 4 in the figure is connected to the communication line 7. The two air purifying devices 4 not connected to the communication line 7 communicate with the air conditioner remote controller 1 in a form relayed by other air purifying devices 4 via the communication line 8, respectively. However, this is merely an example, and the three air purifying devices 4 may be respectively connected to the communication line 7 and communicate with the air conditioner remote controller 1.

[0019] The air conditioner remote controller 1 instructs the operation content of each of the HVAC device 3, the air purifying device 4, and the ventilation device 5, which are a plurality of types of air conditioning devices. Further, the air conditioner remote controller 1 displays information about the HVAC device 3, the air purifying device 4, and the ventilation device 5 on a display unit 20 (described later) provided in the air conditioner remote controller 1. The above information may include information related to settings and / or information related to states such as operation abnormalities for each of the HVAC device 3, the air purifying device 4, and the ventilation device 5.

[0020] In the present embodiment, the air conditioner remote controller 1 instructs the same setting for each of a plurality of air conditioning devices of the same type for each type of air conditioning device. Specifically, the air conditioner remote controller 1 instructs the same common setting for the four HVAC devices 3, the same common setting for the three air purifying devices 4, and the same common setting for the three ventilation devices 5.

[0021] [1-2. Configuration of Air Conditioner Remote Controller] Next, the configuration of the air conditioner remote controller 1 will be described. The air conditioner remote controller 1 is a terminal device including a display unit having a display panel described later and an operation unit for receiving user operations. The air conditioner remote controller 1 may be configured as a dedicated terminal device, or may be a general-purpose mobile terminal equipped with a touch panel such as a smartphone. In the present embodiment, the air conditioner remote controller 1 is configured as a dedicated terminal device.

[0022] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioner remote controller 1. The air conditioner remote controller 1 includes a processor 10, a memory 11, and a communication device 12. The memory 11 is composed of a volatile and / or non-volatile semiconductor memory. The communication device 12 is a transceiver for the processor 10 to communicate with each of the heating and cooling device 3, the air purifying device 4, the ventilation device 5, and the air quality sensor 6 via the communication line 7.

[0023] The air conditioner remote controller 1 also has a display unit 20 and an operation unit 21. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration and arrangement of the display unit 20 and the operation unit 21 in the air conditioner remote controller 1. The display unit 20 includes a display panel 20a. The display panel 20a is, for example, a liquid crystal display panel.

[0024] The operation unit 21 includes a plurality of operation buttons operated by the user P and receives user operations. The operation buttons included in the operation unit 21 include an operation / stop button 21a used by the user P to switch the start / stop of the operation of the heating and cooling device 3, the air purifying device 4, and the ventilation device 5, which are air conditioning devices. In the present embodiment, the operation unit 21 further includes a menu button 21b, a back button 21c, a decision button 21d, an up button 21e, a down button 21f, a left button 21g, and a right button 21h. How these operation buttons are used will be described later.

[0025] Referring to FIG. 2, the processor 10 is a computer including a processor such as a CPU. The processor 10 may be configured to have a ROM in which programs and data are written, and / or a RAM for temporary storage of data. And the processor 10 includes an information acquisition unit 14 and a control unit 15 as functional elements or functional units.

[0026] These functional elements included in the processor 10 are realized, for example, by the processor 10, which is a computer, executing the program 13 stored in the memory 11. The program 13 corresponds to the remote controller program in the present disclosure. Note that the program 13 can be stored in any computer-readable storage medium. Alternatively, all or part of the above functional elements included in the processor 10 can also be configured by hardware including one or more electronic circuit components respectively.

[0027] The information acquisition unit 14 communicates with each of the air conditioner 3, the air purifier 4, the ventilation device 5, and the air quality sensor 6, and acquires information from these devices and sensors. The information from the air conditioner 3, the air purifier 4, and the ventilation device 5 may include information about the operation settings of these devices, information indicating the occurrence of problems, and the like. The information indicating the occurrence of problems includes the occurrence information of the "abnormal" state and the "inspection" state. Here, the "abnormal" state refers to a state in which the operation cannot be continued, and the "inspection" state refers to a state in which the operation can be continued but some functions do not work. In addition, the information from the air quality sensor 6 includes information about the current temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide concentration in the target space S.

[0028] The information acquisition unit 14 acquires information from these devices and sensors by, according to the prior art, for example, sending an information request to the air conditioner 3, the air purifier 4, the ventilation device 5, and the air quality sensor 6 at a predetermined time interval. Alternatively, the information acquisition unit 14 receives the information transmitted from the air conditioner 3, the air purifier 4, the ventilation device 5, and the air quality sensor 6 at a predetermined timing and acquires the information.

[0029] The control unit 15 controls the screen output to the display unit 20. Further, based on the user operation performed by the user P on the operation unit 21 according to the screen output to the display unit 20, the control unit 15 instructs the operation contents of a plurality of types of air conditioning devices, namely, the heating and cooling device 3, the air purifying device 4, and the ventilation device 5, which are communicably connected to the control unit 15, respectively.

[0030] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 4, the transition of the screen displayed by the control unit 15 on the display unit 20 will be described. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the transition of the screen displayed by the control unit 15 on the display unit 20.

[0031] On the display unit 20, a home screen D0 and operation-specific screens other than the home screen D0 are displayed. Here, the home screen D0 is a main screen or a root screen that serves as a center for transition to other operation-specific screens. Further, the operation-specific screen refers to a screen other than the home screen D0 (for example, the screens denoted by reference numerals D1, D2, etc. in FIG. 4) that the control unit 15 displays on the display unit 20 according to the user operation received by the operation unit 21. Note that specific examples of the screens will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 21 below.

[0032] The air conditioner remote controller 1 is activated when connected to the communication line 7. However, this is an example, and the air conditioner remote controller 1 may be provided with a start button on the operation unit 21 and may be activated by operating the start button. In FIG. 4, first, when the air conditioner remote controller 1 is activated, the control unit 15 displays the home screen D0 on the display unit 20. The home screen D0 is a standby screen for waiting for an operation by the user P on the operation unit 21.

[0033] In this embodiment, among the air conditioning devices of multiple types communicably connected, namely the heating and cooling device 3, the air purifying device 4, and the ventilation device 5, the heating and cooling device 3 is predefined as the main device. The designation of which type of air conditioning device is the main device can be, for example, stored in advance in the memory 11. When starting the operation, the control unit 15 refers to the above-mentioned designation stored in the memory 11 and recognizes that the heating and cooling device 3 is defined as the main device.

[0034] In this embodiment, further, the control unit 15 displays on the home screen D0 the main device setting information 30, which is information about the current setting content of the heating and cooling device 3 predefined as the main device among the multiple types of air conditioning devices, and does not display information about the current setting content of other types of air conditioning devices not defined as the main device.

[0035] Then, when the control unit 15 is displaying the home screen D0 on the display unit 20 and receives a predefined first operation from the operation unit 21, it displays on the display unit 20 the main device setting screen D1, which is the setting screen of the heating and cooling device 3 as the main device. In this embodiment, the first operation is, for example, pressing the decision button 21d, the up button 21e, the down button 21f, the left button 21g, or the right button 21h.

[0036] Also, when the control unit 15 is displaying the home screen D0 on the display unit 20 and receives a predefined second operation from the operation unit 21, it displays a menu screen D2 for selecting which type of air conditioning device's operation content is to be set. In this embodiment, the second operation is, for example, pressing the menu button 21b.

[0037] As a result, multiple types of air conditioners are divided into a main device and other devices. The display and change of the settings of the air conditioner 3 as the main device, which is frequently used, can be preferentially performed centered on the home screen D0, while the confirmation of the operating state and the change of the settings of the air conditioners other than the air conditioner 3 can be performed through the menu screen D2. Thus, the display information on one screen can be prevented from becoming complicated, and the operations from the screen for displaying the settings of various air conditioners to the screen for setting operations can be prevented from becoming complicated, so that the convenience for the user P is improved. That is, the settings and information display of multiple types of air conditioners including the air conditioner 3 can be easily operated using a single air conditioner remote controller 1.

[0038] The control unit 15 displays on the menu screen D2 an air-conditioning type object 33 which is an object indicating each type of selectable air conditioner. In the present embodiment, on the menu screen D2, a first air-conditioning type object 33a, a second air-conditioning type object 33b, and a third air-conditioning type object 33c indicating the air conditioner 3, the air purifier 4, and the ventilator 5, which are three types of air conditioners, are displayed.

[0039] Here, the control unit 15 does not display on the menu screen D2 an air-conditioning type object 33 indicating the type of an air conditioner that is not communicably connected to the control unit 15. For example, when the ventilator 5 is not installed in the target space S or, even if it is installed, it is not communicably connected to the control unit 15, the control unit 15 does not display the third air-conditioning type object 33c indicating the ventilator 5 on the menu screen D2.

[0040] As a result, the user can easily confirm the types of air conditioners for which settings can be made, so that the usability of the air conditioner remote controller 1 for setting multiple types of air conditioners is improved.

[0041] The control unit 15 also displays on the menu screen D2 air conditioner status information 34, which is information about the status of the air conditioner for each type of air conditioner communicably connected to the control unit 15. The air conditioner status information 34 includes operation information 35 about the current operation of the corresponding air conditioner.

[0042] In this embodiment, on the menu screen D2, first air conditioner status information 34a, second air conditioner status information 34b, and third air conditioner status information 34c, which are information about the statuses of the three types of air conditioners, namely, the air conditioner 3, the air purifier 4, and the ventilator 5, are displayed. The first air conditioner status information 34a, the second air conditioner status information 34b, and the third air conditioner status information 34c each include operation information 35a, 35b, and 35c about the operations of the air conditioner 3, the air purifier 4, and the ventilator 5, respectively.

[0043] When the control unit 15 receives a user selection operation for selecting any one of the air conditioner type objects 33 from the operation unit 21 while the menu screen D2 is being displayed on the display unit 20, the control unit 15 displays on the display unit 20 an air conditioner setting screen D21, which is a setting screen for the selected type of air conditioner. The user selection operation can be performed, for example, according to the prior art, by inverting the display of the air conditioner type object of the desired air conditioner by operating the up button 21e, the down button 21f, the left button 21g, or the right button 21h, and then pressing the determination button 21d.

[0044] In this embodiment, when the first air conditioner type object 33a, the second air conditioner type object 33b, or the third air conditioner type object 33c is selected by a user selection operation, the control unit 15 displays the first air conditioner setting screen D21a, the second air conditioner setting screen D21b, or the third air conditioner setting screen D21c, respectively, on the display unit 20. In this embodiment, the first air conditioner setting screen D21a, the second air conditioner setting screen D21b, and the third air conditioner setting screen D21c are setting screens for the air conditioner 3, the air purifier 4, and the ventilator 5, respectively.

[0045] As a result, user P can easily select the type of air conditioner for which the driving content is to be set from a plurality of air conditioning type objects 33 on the menu screen D2, so that an operation that is easier for the user to understand can be realized.

[0046] When the control unit 15 displays the menu screen D2 on the display unit 20, if the information acquisition unit 14 receives information indicating a problem from any of the air conditioners, it includes the display of an abnormality notification 36 notifying the occurrence of the problem in the air conditioner state information 34 for the corresponding air conditioner. The information indicating the occurrence of the problem may be, for example, information indicating that an "abnormal" state in which the driving operation cannot be continued has occurred in the air conditioner or information indicating that an "inspection" state in which the driving operation can be continued but some functions do not work has occurred in the air conditioner.

[0047] For example, in the example of FIG. 4, the first air conditioner state information 34a, the second air conditioner state information 34b, and the third air conditioner state information 34c respectively include abnormality notifications 36a, 36b, and 37c indicating the occurrence of an "abnormal" state and / or an "inspection" state in the air conditioner 3, the air purifier 4, and the ventilation device 5, respectively.

[0048] As a result, user P can quickly check the air conditioner causing the problem on the menu screen D2, so that the usability of the air conditioner remote controller 1 is further improved.

[0049] When the control unit 15 displays the air conditioner setting screen D21 including the display of the abnormality notification 36, if it receives a predefined fourth operation from the operation unit 21, it displays an abnormality information screen D22 showing information about the content of the problem occurring on the display unit 20. The fourth operation is, for example, pressing the left button 21g.

[0050] In the example shown in FIG. 4, when the fourth operation is received during the display of each of the first air conditioner setting screen D21a, the second air conditioner setting screen D21b, and the third air conditioner setting screen D21c, as the abnormal information screen D22, the first air conditioner abnormal information screen D22a, the second air conditioner abnormal information screen D22b, and the third air conditioner abnormal information screen D22c are respectively displayed.

[0051] When the control unit 15 receives the fourth operation from the operation unit 21 while the abnormal information screen D22 for any one of the air conditioners is being displayed on the display unit 20, the control unit 15 displays a general information screen D23 showing general information about that air conditioner on the display unit 20. In the example shown in FIG. 4, when the fourth operation is received during the display of each of the first air conditioner abnormal information screen D22a, the second air conditioner abnormal information screen D22b, and the third air conditioner abnormal information screen D22c, the first air conditioner general information screen D23a, the second air conditioner general information screen D23b, and the third air conditioner general information screen D23c are respectively displayed. The content of the above general information is determined in advance for each type of air conditioner, for example.

[0052] When the control unit 15 receives the fourth operation while the air conditioner setting screen D21 for an air conditioner whose air conditioner status information 34 displayed on the menu screen D2 does not include the display of the abnormal notification 36 is being displayed on the display unit 20, the control unit 15 displays the general information screen D23 of that air conditioner without displaying the abnormal information screen D22. For example, when the display of the abnormal notification 36a is not included in the first air conditioner status information 34a on the menu screen D2, and the fourth operation is received while the first air conditioner setting screen D21a is being displayed by a user selection operation, the control unit 15 displays the first air conditioner general information screen D23a without displaying the first air conditioner abnormal information screen D22a.

[0053] When the control unit 15 displays the home screen D0 on the display unit 20, if the information acquisition unit 14 receives information indicating a problem from at least one air conditioner, an abnormal notification 31 for notifying the occurrence of the problem is displayed on the home screen D0. The abnormal notification 31 may be a notification about the occurrence of an "abnormal" state and / or an "inspection" state in any of the air conditioners.

[0054] When the control unit 15 is displaying the abnormal notification 31 on the home screen D0 and receives a predefined third operation from the operation unit 21, an overall abnormal information screen D3 showing information about the content of the problem in the air conditioner where the problem has occurred is displayed on the display unit 20 for all the air conditioners. The third operation is, for example, pressing the left button 21g.

[0055] Thus, even when a problem occurs in an air conditioner other than the air conditioner 3 which is the main device, the abnormal notification 31 is displayed on the home screen D0, so that the user P can quickly confirm the occurrence of a highly urgent problem state and take corresponding measures. As a result, the usability of the air conditioner remote controller 1 handling a plurality of types of air conditioners is further improved.

[0056] When the control unit 15 displays the main device setting screen D1 on the display unit 20, if the information acquisition unit 14 receives information indicating a problem from the air conditioner which is the main device (in this embodiment, the air conditioner 3), an abnormal notification 32 for notifying the occurrence of the problem is displayed on the main device setting screen D1. The abnormal notification 32 may be a notification about the occurrence of an "abnormal" state and / or an "inspection" state in the air conditioner which is the main device.

[0057] When the control unit 15 is displaying the abnormal notification 32 on the main device setting screen D1 and receives a predefined fifth operation from the operation unit 21, the above-mentioned overall abnormal information screen D3 is displayed on the display unit 20. The fifth operation is, for example, pressing the left button 21g.

[0058] When the control unit 15 receives the fifth operation from the operation unit 21 while the overall abnormality information screen D3 is being displayed on the display unit 20, the control unit 15 displays an overall information screen D12 showing predetermined general information for all air conditioners on the display unit 20.

[0059] In addition, when the fifth operation is received from the operation unit 21 when the abnormality notification 32 is not displayed on the main device setting screen D1, the control unit 15 displays the overall information screen D12 on the display unit 20 without displaying the overall abnormality information screen D3.

[0060] In FIG. 4, the transition from one screen to the screen previously displayed is executed, for example, when the operation unit 21 receives a predefined back operation. In the present embodiment, all of the back operations shown in FIG. 4 are performed by pressing the back button 21c. However, the pressing of the back button 21c is an example, and the back operation may be defined as a different button operation depending on each screen.

[0061] Next, specific examples of each screen shown in FIG. 4 will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the home screen D0. In the example shown in FIG. 6, an abnormality notification 31 is displayed at the upper left of the display unit 20, and main device setting information 30 is displayed below it. The setting contents of other types of air conditioners other than the main device are not displayed.

[0062] The abnormality notification 31 may include, for example, an alarm notification with a triangle mark and an inspection notification with a circular mark. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the main device setting information 30 includes, for example, a set temperature value 30a, an operation mode setting 30b, an air volume setting 30c, and an air direction setting 30d of the air conditioner 3 which is the main device. When the main device is another type of air conditioner (for example, an air purifier 4 or a ventilation device 5), the main device setting information 30 displays the setting information predetermined for the air conditioner corresponding to the main device.

[0063] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing another example of the home screen D0. In FIG. 7, the same components as those in the home screen D0 shown in FIG. 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals as in FIG. 6, and the description of FIG. 6 described above is incorporated herein. Similar to the example of the home screen D0 shown in FIG. 6, the main device setting information 30 is displayed on the home screen D0 shown in FIG. 7, and the setting contents of other types of air conditioners other than the main device are not displayed. However, in the home screen D0 shown in FIG. 7, the display 37 of other operation information in the main device such as "defrosting" and "heating preparation", and the room temperature display 38 indicating the room temperature in the target space S acquired from the air quality sensor 6 are displayed, which is different from the home screen D0 shown in FIG. 6.

[0064] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing still another example of the home screen D0. In FIG. 8, the same components as those in the home screen D0 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 are denoted by the same reference numerals as in FIGS. 6 and 7, and the description of FIGS. 6 and 7 described above is incorporated herein. The home screen D0 shown in FIG. 8 is the same as the example of the home screen D0 shown in FIG. 7, but further, the air quality information 39 indicating the humidity and carbon dioxide concentration in the target space S acquired from the air quality sensor 6 is displayed, which is different from the home screen D0 shown in FIG. 7.

[0065] As for which of the home screens D0 respectively shown in FIGS. 6, 7, and 8 to use, it can be set by the user P selecting it in advance on the air conditioner remote controller 1. Specifically, for example, the screen shown in FIG. 6 can be defined in advance as a "simple screen", the configuration of the screen shown in FIG. 7 as a "standard screen", and the screen shown in FIG. 8 as a "detailed screen", and the information on the configurations of these screens can be stored in the memory 11. When the user P selects, for example, the setting object 40 on the menu screen D2 shown in FIG. 9 described later, on the setting screen (not shown) displayed on the display unit 20 by the control unit 15, the user can arbitrarily input the selection of which of the "simple screen", "standard screen", and "detailed screen" to use as the home screen D0. The control unit 15 stores the above screen selection in the memory 11, and when displaying the home screen D0 on the display unit 20, it displays one of the home screens D0 of the "simple screen", "standard screen", or "detailed screen" on the display unit 20 according to the above screen selection.

[0066] In addition, which information among the information from the air quality sensor 6 is to be preferentially displayed on the home screen D0 may be determined for each type of air conditioner selected in the main device. For example, when the main device is the air conditioner 3, the room temperature and humidity are preferentially displayed on the home screen D0, and when the main device is the ventilation device 5, the CO 2 concentration can be preferentially displayed on the home screen D0. Also, when the main device is the air purifier 4 capable of humidifying, the humidity information can be preferentially displayed on the home screen D0.

[0067] The control unit 15 may also be configured to operate in a plurality of operation modes with different display contents on the home screen D0. For example, the control unit 15 may be configured to operate in an operation mode of either a first display mode or a second display mode with different display contents on the home screen D0. At least one of the first display mode and the second display mode, for example, the first display mode, is an operation mode of displaying a home screen D0 that includes the main device setting information 30, which is the setting information of the air conditioner as the main device, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, and does not include the setting information of air conditioners other than the main device. On the other hand, the second display mode is, for example, an operation mode of displaying a home screen D0 that includes the main device setting information 30, which is the setting information of the air conditioner as the main device, and the setting information of air conditioners other than the main device.

[0068] Specifically, for example, the first display mode is an operation mode in which the home screen D0 displays the main device setting information 30, which is information about the current setting contents of the air conditioner 3, which is a heating and cooling device previously defined as the main device among a plurality of types of air conditioners, and does not display information about the current setting contents of other types of air conditioners that are not defined as the main device. Also, the second display mode is an operation mode in which the home screen D0 displays the main device setting information 30 and the setting information about the current setting contents of other types of air conditioners that are not defined as the main device, for example, the air purifier 4 and the ventilation device 5.

[0069] The setting information of the air conditioner other than the main device displayed on the home screen D0 in the second display mode may include, for example, information about the on / off state of the air purifier 4 and / or the ventilation device 5. Alternatively, the above setting information may further include all or part of the information about the sterilization setting and humidification setting of the air purifier 4, and the information about the ventilation air volume and operation mode of the ventilation device 5.

[0070] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a menu screen D2 that transitions from the home screen D0. The illustrated menu screen D2 includes a first air conditioner type object 33a, a second air conditioner type object 33b, and a third air conditioner type object 33c, each of which is displayed as a rectangular object. Also, in the example of FIG. 9, first air conditioner status information 34a, second air conditioner status information 34b, and third air conditioner status information 34c are respectively displayed as rectangular ranges superimposed inside each of the first air conditioner type object 33a, the second air conditioner type object 33b, and the third air conditioner type object 33c.

[0071] When there is a problem with the corresponding air conditioner, abnormal notifications 36a, 36b, 36c are preferentially displayed in the first air conditioner status information 34a, the second air conditioner status information 34b, and the third air conditioner status information 34c, respectively, and when there is no problem, operation information 35a, 35b, 35c is displayed. As an example, in FIG. 9, operation information 35a and 35b indicating "operating" are both displayed in the first air conditioner status information 34a and the second air conditioner status information 34b. Also, an abnormal notification 36c is displayed in the third air conditioner status information 34c. The abnormal notifications 36a, 36b, 36c can include a warning notification with a triangle mark and an inspection notification with a circular mark, similar to the abnormal notification 31 shown in FIG. 6.

[0072] In the example of FIG. 9, the first air conditioner type object 33a is reversely displayed (indicated by hatching in FIG. 9), and by pressing the determination button 21d in this state, the first air conditioner setting screen D21a is displayed on the display unit 20.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 9, a setting object 40 may also be displayed on the menu screen D2. By selecting the setting object 40, a setting screen for making settings such as changing the designation of the main device or changing the display content of the home screen D0 can be displayed. Also, in the menu screen D2 of FIG. 9, when any one of the first air-conditioning type object 33a, the second air-conditioning type object 33b, and the third air-conditioning type object 33c is in a state of being reversely displayed, by pressing the operation / stop button 21a, the start / stop of the operation of the air conditioner corresponding to the reversely displayed air-conditioning type object 33 can be switched.

[0074] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the first air conditioner setting screen D21a displayed in response to a user selection operation on the menu screen D2. In the present embodiment, the first air conditioner setting screen D21a is a screen for setting the air conditioner 3. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the first air conditioner setting screen D21a is composed of four setting screens: a temperature setting screen D21a-1, an operation mode setting screen D21a-2, a wind speed setting screen D21a-3, and a wind direction setting screen D21a-4. The temperature setting screen D21a-1, the operation mode setting screen D21a-2, the wind speed setting screen D21a-3, and the wind direction setting screen D21a-4 are configured to shift mutually in the order shown in the vertical direction in the figure by pressing the left button 21g and the right button 21h, for example.

[0075] In the temperature setting screen D21a-1, the operation mode setting screen D21a-2, the wind speed setting screen D21a-3, and the wind direction setting screen D21a-4, candidates for the set temperature, operation mode, wind speed, and air volume are displayed in the central part of the display unit 20, respectively. By pressing the up button 21e or the down button 21f, the display of each candidate is changed. After the user P displays a desired candidate by operating the up button 21e and the down button 21f on the temperature setting screen D21a-1, the operation mode setting screen D21a-2, the wind speed setting screen D21a-3, and the wind direction setting screen D21a-4, for example, by pressing the decision button 21d, the displayed candidate can be determined as the operation setting of the air conditioner 3 which is the main device. In the air conditioner 3, the candidates for the operation mode are, for example, three: cooling, heating, and automatic. The control unit 15 transmits the determined operation setting to the air conditioner 3, and the air conditioner 3 reflects the received operation setting in its operation.

[0076] Note that the start / stop of the operation of the air conditioner 3 can be instructed to the air conditioner 3 by the control unit 15 by pressing the operation / stop button 21a, for example, when any one of the screens of the first air conditioner setting screen D21a is being displayed.

[0077] In the example of FIG. 10, an abnormality notification 40a is also displayed in the upper right part of each of the screens of the temperature setting screen D21a-1, the operation mode setting screen D21a-2, the wind speed setting screen D21a-3, and the wind direction setting screen D21a-4. Similar to the abnormality notification 31 shown in FIG. 6, the abnormality notification 40a may include, for example, an alarm notification with a triangular mark and an inspection notification with a circular mark.

[0078] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a second air conditioner setting screen D21b displayed in response to a user selection operation on the menu screen D2. In the present embodiment, the second air conditioner setting screen D21b is a screen for setting the air purifying device 4. In the example shown in FIG. 11, the second air conditioner setting screen D21b is composed of three setting screens: an operation mode setting screen D21b-1, a sterilization setting screen D21b-2, and a humidification setting screen D21b-3. The operation mode setting screen D21b-1, the sterilization setting screen D21b-2, and the humidification setting screen D21b-3 are configured to shift to each other in the order shown in the drawing in the vertical direction by pressing the left button 21g and the right button 21h, for example.

[0079] In the operation mode setting screen D21b-1, the sterilization setting screen D21b-2, and the humidification setting screen D21b-3, setting candidates for the operation mode, sterilization, and humidification are displayed in the central part of the display unit 20, respectively, and the display of each candidate is changed by pressing the upper button 21e or the lower button 21f. For example, in the air purifying device 4, there are two setting candidates for the operation mode: normal and intensive cleaning (for example, an operation mode in which the sterilization intensity and the humidification amount are temporarily increased for operation), three setting candidates for sterilization: off, weak, medium, and strong, and four setting candidates for humidification: very weak, weak, medium, and strong, for example.

[0080] User P can, on the operation mode setting screen D21b-1, the sterilization setting screen D21b-2, and the humidification setting screen D21b-3, after displaying a desired candidate by operating the up button 21e and the down button 21f, for example, by pressing the determination button 21d, confirm the displayed candidate as the operation setting of the air purifier 4. The control unit 15 transmits the confirmed operation setting to the air purifier 4, and the air purifier 4 reflects the received operation setting in its operation.

[0081] Note that the start / stop of the operation of the air purifier 4 can be, for example, when any of the screens of the second air conditioner setting screen D21b is displayed, by pressing the operation / stop button 21a, and can be instructed to the air purifier 4 by the control unit 15.

[0082] In the example shown in FIG. 11, also, an abnormality notification 40b is displayed in the upper right corner of each of the operation mode setting screen D21b-1, the sterilization setting screen D21b-2, and the humidification setting screen D21b-3. Similar to the abnormality notification 31 shown in FIG. 6, the abnormality notification 40b can include, for example, an alarm notification with a triangle mark and an inspection notification with a circular mark.

[0083] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the third air conditioner setting screen D21c displayed in response to a user selection operation on the menu screen D2. In the present embodiment, the third air conditioner setting screen D21c is a screen for setting the ventilation device 5. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the third air conditioner setting screen D21c is composed of two setting screens, an operation mode setting screen D21c-1 and a ventilation air volume setting screen D21c-2. The operation mode setting screen D21c-1 and the ventilation air volume setting screen D21c-2 are configured to shift mutually in the order shown in the up and down directions in the figure by pressing the left button 21g and the right button 21h, for example.

[0084] On the operation mode setting screen D21c-1 and the ventilation air volume setting screen D21c-2, candidates for setting the operation mode and the ventilation air volume are respectively displayed in the central part of the display unit 20, and the display of each candidate is changed by pressing the upper button 21e or the lower button 21f. For example, in the ventilation device 5, the candidates for setting the operation mode are three: normal ventilation, heat exchange ventilation, and automatic ventilation. Also, the candidates for setting the ventilation air volume are, for example, weak, strong, and CO 2 interlock. The three types of CO 2 interlock refers to the air volume setting according to the carbon dioxide concentration in the target space S. The carbon dioxide concentration in the target space S is detected by, for example, the air quality sensor 6.

[0085] After the user P displays a desired candidate by operating the upper button 21e and the lower button 21f on the operation mode setting screen D21c-1 and the ventilation air volume setting screen D21c-2, for example, by pressing the determination button 21d, the displayed candidate can be determined as the operation setting of the ventilation device 5. The control unit 15 transmits the determined operation setting to the ventilation device 5, and the ventilation device 5 reflects the received operation setting in its operation.

[0086] Note that the start / stop of the operation of the ventilation device 5 can be instructed to the ventilation device 5 by the control unit 15 by pressing the operation / stop button 21a, for example, when any one of the screens of the third air conditioner setting screen D21c is being displayed.

[0087] In the example shown in FIG. 12, an abnormality notification 40c is also displayed in the upper right part of each of the operation mode setting screen D21c-1 and the ventilation air volume setting screen D21c-2. Similar to the abnormality notification 31 shown in FIG. 6, the abnormality notification 40c may include, for example, an alarm notification with a triangle mark and an inspection notification with a circular mark.

[0088] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the first air conditioner abnormality information screen D22a that transitions from the first air conditioner setting screen D21a. In the present embodiment, the first air conditioner abnormality information screen D22a is a screen that shows information about the content of the problem occurring in the air conditioning device 3. In the example shown in FIG. 13, the first air conditioner abnormality information screen D22a is composed of two screens, an alarm information screen D22a-1 and an inspection information screen D22a-2. The alarm information screen D22a-1 and the inspection information screen D22a-2 are configured to transition mutually in the order shown in the vertical direction in the figure, for example, by pressing the left button 21g and the right button 21h. In addition, when only one of the states of "abnormality" or "inspection" occurs in the air conditioning device 3, the inspection information screen D22a-2 or the alarm information screen D22a-1 is not displayed, respectively.

[0089] The alarm information screen D22a-1 and the inspection information screen D22a-2 can each be composed of a plurality of pages according to, for example, the number of air conditioning devices 3 in which problems occur. On each of the alarm information screen D22a-1 and the inspection information screen D22a-2, the upper button 21e and the lower button 21f can be used to change the page to be displayed on the display unit 20. On each page of the alarm information screen D22a-1, for example, alarm codes indicating the content of the "abnormal" state, unit numbers identifying the units of the air conditioning device 3 in the "abnormal" state, product part numbers, and the part numbers of the outdoor units connected to the air conditioning device 3 are displayed. In addition, on each page of the inspection information screen D22a-2, for example, the name of the "inspection" state is displayed.

[0090] In the example of FIG. 13, on each page of the alarm information screen D22a-1 and the inspection information screen D22a-2, by pressing the decision button 21d, information about the contact destination for the "abnormal" state or the "inspection" state is displayed.

[0091] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the second air conditioner abnormality information screen D22b that transitions from the second air conditioner setting screen D21b. In the present embodiment, the second air conditioner abnormality information screen D22b is a screen that shows information about the content of the problem occurring in the air purifying device 4. Similar to the first air conditioner abnormality information screen D22a shown in FIG. 13, the second air conditioner abnormality information screen D22b is composed of two screens, an alarm information screen D22b-1 and an inspection information screen D22b-2. The alarm information screen D22b-1 and the inspection information screen D22b-2 are configured to transition mutually in the order shown in the vertical direction in the figure, for example, by pressing the left button 21g and the right button 21h. Note that when only one of the "abnormal" state or the "inspection" state occurs in the air purifying device 4, the inspection information screen D22b-2 or the alarm information screen D22b-1 is not displayed, respectively.

[0092] The alarm information screen D22b-1 and the inspection information screen D22b-2 can each be composed of a plurality of pages, for example, according to the number of air purifying devices 4 in which problems have occurred. On each of the alarm information screen D22b-1 and the inspection information screen D22b-2, the upper button 21e and the lower button 21f can be used to change the page to be displayed on the display unit 20. On each page of the alarm information screen D22b-1, for example, alarm codes indicating the content of the "abnormal" state, unit numbers identifying the units of the air purifying device 4 in which the "abnormal" state is occurring, product part numbers, and other information are displayed. Also, on each page of the inspection information screen D22b-2, for example, unit numbers identifying the units of the air purifying device 4 in which the "inspection" state is occurring, inspection codes indicating the content of the "inspection" state, and product part numbers are displayed.

[0093] In the example of FIG. 14, also, on each page of the alarm information screen D22b-1 and the inspection information screen D22b-2, by pressing the decision button 21d, information about the contact destination regarding the "abnormal" state or the "inspection" state is displayed.

[0094] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a third air conditioner abnormality information screen D22c that transitions from the third air conditioner setting screen D21c. In the present embodiment, the third air conditioner abnormality information screen D22c is a screen that shows information about the content of the problem occurring in the ventilation device 5. Similar to the first air conditioner abnormality information screen D22a shown in FIG. 13, the third air conditioner abnormality information screen D22c is composed of two screens, an alarm information screen D22c-1 and an inspection information screen D22c-2. The alarm information screen D22c-1 and the inspection information screen D22c-2 are configured to transition mutually in the order shown in the vertical direction in the figure, for example, by pressing the left button 21g and the right button 21h. In addition, when only one of the "abnormal" state or the "inspection" state occurs in the ventilation device 5, the inspection information screen D22c-2 or the alarm information screen D22c-1 is not displayed, respectively.

[0095] The alarm information screen D22c-1 and the inspection information screen D22c-2 can each be composed of a plurality of pages, for example, according to the number of ventilation devices 5 in which problems occur. On each of the alarm information screen D22c-1 and the inspection information screen D22c-2, the upper button 21e and the lower button 21f can be used to change the page to be displayed on the display unit 20. On each page of the alarm information screen D22c-1, for example, information such as an alarm code indicating the content of the "abnormal" state and a unit number for identifying the unit of the ventilation device 5 in which the "abnormal" state occurs is displayed. Also, on each page of the inspection information screen D22c-2, for example, the name of the "inspection" state and the like are displayed.

[0096] In the example of FIG. 15, also, on each page of the alarm information screen D22c-1 and the inspection information screen D22c-2, by pressing the decision button 21d, information about the contact destination for operation abnormalities and inspections is displayed.

[0097] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a first air conditioner general information screen D23a that transitions from a first air conditioner setting screen D21a or a first air conditioner abnormality information screen D22a. In the present embodiment, the first air conditioner general information screen D23a displays predetermined general information about the air conditioner 3. In the example shown in FIG. 16, icons corresponding to respective general information about the air conditioner 3 are displayed. Using the user P, the up button 21e, the down button 21f, the left button 21g, and the right button 21h, when the cursor (the rectangular frame shown in the leftmost icon in FIG. 16) is moved to the icon corresponding to the desired general information and the decision button 21d is pressed, the control unit 15 displays the content of the general information on this screen.

[0098] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a second air conditioner general information screen D23b that transitions from a second air conditioner setting screen D21b or a second air conditioner abnormality information screen D22b. Further, FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a third air conditioner general information screen D23c that transitions from a third air conditioner setting screen D21c or a third air conditioner abnormality information screen D22c. In the present embodiment, the second air conditioner general information screen D23b and the third air conditioner general information screen D23c each display predetermined general information about the air purifier 4 and the ventilation device 5.

[0099] In the example of the second air conditioner general information screen D23b shown in FIG. 17 and the example of the third air conditioner general information screen D23c shown in FIG. 18, desired general information about the air purifier 4 and the ventilation device 5 is displayed by the same user operation as described above for the first air conditioner general information screen D23a shown in FIG. 16, except that the displayed icons are different.

[0100] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a main device setting screen D1 that transitions from the home screen D0. In the present embodiment, since the main device is the air conditioner 3, the main device setting screen D1 includes a temperature setting screen D1-1, an operation mode setting screen D1-2, a wind speed setting screen D1-3, and a wind direction setting screen D1-4, similar to the example of the first air conditioner setting screen D21a shown in FIG. 10. However, the main device setting screen D1 does not necessarily have to be the same as the air conditioner setting screen D21 that transitions from the menu screen D2 for the air conditioner that is the main device, and may be a screen including a different screen layout and / or different content from the air conditioner setting screen D21.

[0101] In the example shown in FIG. 19, an abnormality notification 32 is displayed on the main device setting screen D1. Similar to the abnormality notification 31 shown in FIG. 6, the abnormality notification 32 may include, for example, an alarm notification with a triangle mark and an inspection notification with a circular mark.

[0102] When the control unit 15 detects the pressing of the left button 21g that is performed when the temperature setting screen D21a-1 is being displayed on the display unit 20 as the third operation, the control unit 15 displays the overall abnormality information screen D3 on the display unit 20.

[0103] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of the overall abnormality information screen D3 that transitions from the home screen D0. As described above, the overall abnormality information screen D3 is a screen that shows information about the content of the problem of the air conditioner in which a problem has occurred, targeting all air conditioners. The overall abnormality information screen D3 may include all the content included in the first air conditioner abnormality information screen D22a, the second air conditioner abnormality information screen D22b, and the third air conditioner abnormality information screen D22c.

[0104] In the example shown in FIG. 20, the overall abnormality information screen D3 is composed of two screens, an alarm information screen D3-1 and an inspection information screen D3-2, similar to the abnormality information screen D22 such as the first air conditioner abnormality information screen D22a. The alarm information screen D3-1 and the inspection information screen D3-2 are configured to transition mutually in the order shown in the vertical direction in the figure, for example, by pressing the left button 21g and the right button 21h. In addition, when only one of the "abnormal" state or the "inspection" state occurs in the air conditioner 3, the air purifier 4, and the ventilation device 5, the inspection information screen D3-2 or the warning information screen D3-1 is not displayed, respectively.

[0105] The warning information screen D3-1 and the inspection information screen D3-2 can each be composed of a plurality of pages, for example, according to the number of air conditioners having problems. On each of the warning information screen D3-1 and the inspection information screen D3-2, the page to be displayed on the display unit 20 can be changed using the up button 21e and the down button 21f.

[0106] Each page of the warning information screen D3-1 displays information about the content of the problem for each air conditioner having a problem. The information displayed on each page includes, depending on whether the type of the air conditioner is the air conditioner 3, the air purifier 4, or the ventilation device 5, the warning information screen D22a-1 of the first air conditioner abnormal information screen D22a, the warning information screen D22b-1 of the second air conditioner abnormal information screen D22b, or the warning information screen D22c-1 of the third air conditioner abnormal information screen D22c shown in FIGS. 13, 14, or 15, respectively.

[0107] Each page of the inspection information screen D3-2 displays information about the content of the "inspection" state for each air conditioner in the "inspection" state. The information about the content of the "inspection" state displayed on each page includes, depending on whether the type of the air conditioner is the air conditioner 3, the air purifier 4, or the ventilation device 5, the inspection information screen D22a-2 of the first air conditioner abnormal information screen D22a, the inspection information screen D22b-2 of the second air conditioner abnormal information screen D22b, or the inspection information screen D22c-2 of the third air conditioner abnormal information screen D22c shown in FIGS. 13, 14, or 15, respectively.

[0108] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of the overall information screen D12 that migrates from the overall abnormality information screen D3. As described above, the overall information screen D12 is a screen showing predetermined general information about all air conditioners. The overall information screen D12 may include all the contents included in the first air conditioner general information screen D23a, the second air conditioner general information screen D23b, and the third air conditioner general information screen D23c.

[0109] In the example shown in FIG. 21, the overall information screen D12 includes four tabs 41 of "All", "Cooling and Heating", "Cleaning", and "Ventilation". By using the up button 21e, down button 21f, left button 21g, and right button 21h included in the operation unit 21 to align the cursor (shown by hatching in FIG. 21) with any of the four tabs 41 of "Cooling and Heating", "Cleaning", and "Ventilation" and pressing the determination button 21d, the same screens as the examples of the first air conditioner general information screen D23a, the second air conditioner general information screen D23b, and the third air conditioner general information screen D23c shown in FIGS. 16, 17, and 18 are respectively displayed. Then, by performing the operations described above with respect to FIGS. 16, 17, and 18 on each of the displayed screens, the general information corresponding to each icon displayed on each screen can be displayed.

[0110] Also, when the "All" tab 41 is selected, as shown in FIG. 21, all the icons shown in the examples of the first air conditioner general information screen D23a, the second air conditioner general information screen D23b, and the third air conditioner general information screen D23c shown in FIGS. 16, 17, and 18 are displayed on the screen. Then, the general information corresponding to each icon can be displayed by performing the same operations as described above.

[0111] [1-5. Operation of Air Conditioner Remote Controller] Next, the operation of the air conditioner remote controller 1 will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the remote controller control method executed by the processor 10 which is a computer of the air conditioner remote controller 1. The processing shown in FIG. 5 starts when the air conditioner remote controller 1 is connected to the communication line 7 and activated in the powered-on state, or when the processor 10 resumes from the sleep mode to the normal operation mode, and is then repeatedly executed.

[0112] For the sake of simplicity in describing the processing procedure and facilitating understanding, the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 does not describe the processing regarding the back operation. It should be understood that, according to the prior art, in the processing shown in FIG. 5, when the processor 10 receives a back operation such as pressing the back button 21c while displaying one screen on the display unit 20, the processing returns to the display step of the other screen executed immediately before the display of the above one screen.

[0113] In addition, in parallel with the operation shown in FIG. 5, the processor 10 measures the elapsed time from the last user operation performed on the operation unit 21, and when the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined time length, it is assumed to shift to the sleep mode.

[0114] Also, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 5, it is assumed that problems occur in each of the air conditioning device 3, the air cleaning device 4, and the ventilation device 5. When no problem occurs in all or part of the air conditioning device 3, the air cleaning device 4, and the ventilation device 5, it should be understood that the display step of the abnormal information screen for the air conditioning device without problems, and the related steps (specifically, all or part of the processing of steps S108, S110, S132, and S134) are not executed.

[0115] When starting the processing, first, the control unit 15 displays the home screen D0 on the display unit 20 (step 100). Next, the control unit 15 determines whether it has received a first operation from the user P by the operation unit 21 (S102). When the first operation is received (S102, YES), the control unit 15 displays the main device setting screen D1 on the display unit 20 (S104).

[0116] Next, the control unit 15 determines whether or not it has received a fifth operation from the user P by the operation unit 21 (S106). When the fifth operation has not been received (S106, NO), the control unit 15 returns to step S106 to repeat the process and waits for the fifth operation to be received. On the other hand, when the fifth operation has been received (S106, YES), the control unit 15 displays the overall abnormality information screen D3 on the display unit 20 (S108).

[0117] Next, the control unit 15 determines whether or not it has received a fifth operation from the user P by the operation unit 21 (S110). When the fifth operation has not been received (S110, NO), the control unit 15 returns to step S110 to repeat the process and waits for the fifth operation to be received. On the other hand, when the fifth operation has been received (S110, YES), the control unit 15 displays the overall information screen D12 on the display unit 20 (S112).

[0118] Next, the processor 10 determines whether or not a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the last operation of the user P on the operation unit 21 (S114). When the predetermined period of time has not elapsed since the last user operation (S114, NO), the processor 10 returns to step S114 to repeat the process and waits for the predetermined period of time to elapse. On the other hand, when the predetermined period of time has elapsed since the last user operation (S114, YES), the processor 10 shifts to the sleep mode (S116) and ends this process.

[0119] On the other hand, when the first operation has not been received in step S102 (S102, NO), the control unit 15 determines whether or not it has received a third operation from the user P by the operation unit 21 (S118). When the third operation has been received (S118, YES), the control unit 15 transfers the process to step S108 and displays the overall abnormality information screen D3 on the display unit 20.

[0120] On the other hand, when the third operation has not been received in step S118 (S118, NO), the control unit 15 determines whether the second operation from the user P has been received by the operation unit 21 (S122). And when the second operation has not been received (S122, NO), the control unit 15 returns to step S102 and repeats the process.

[0121] On the other hand, when the second operation has been received (S122, YES), the control unit 15 displays the menu screen D2 on the display unit 20 (S124). Next, the control unit 15 determines whether a user selection operation from the user P has been received by the operation unit 21 (S126). And when the user selection operation has not been received (S126, NO), the control unit 15 returns to step S126 and repeats the process, waiting to receive the user selection operation. On the other hand, when the user selection operation has been received (S126, YES), the control unit 15 displays the air conditioner setting screen D21 of the air conditioner selected by the user selection operation on the display unit 20 (S128).

[0122] Next, the control unit 15 determines whether a fourth operation from the user P has been received by the operation unit 21 (S130). And when the fourth operation has not been received (S130, NO), the control unit 15 returns to step S130 and repeats the process, waiting to receive the fourth operation. On the other hand, when the fourth operation has been received (S130, YES), the control unit 15 displays the abnormality information screen D22 for the air conditioner selected by the user selection operation in step S126 on the display unit 20 (S132).

[0123] Next, the control unit 15 determines whether or not it has received a fourth operation from the user P by the operation unit 21 (S134). When the fourth operation has not been received (S134, NO), the control unit 15 returns to step S134 to repeat the process and waits to receive the fourth operation. On the other hand, when the fourth operation has been received (S134, YES), the control unit 15 displays a general information screen D23 for the air conditioner selected by the user selection operation in step S126 on the display unit 20 (S136). Thereafter, the control unit 15 moves the process to step S114.

[0124] Here, among the processes shown in FIG. 5, step S100 corresponds to the home screen display step in the present disclosure. Also, the entirety of steps S104, S108, S112, S124, S128, S132, and S136 corresponds to the operation-specific display step in the present disclosure.

[0125] [2. Effects, etc.] As described above, the air conditioner remote controller 1 that instructs the operation content for the plurality of types of air conditioning devices, namely the air conditioner 3, the air purifier 4, and the ventilator 5, includes a display unit 20 having a display panel 20a, an operation unit 21 having a plurality of operation buttons operated by the user P to receive user operations, a control unit 15 that controls screen output to the display unit 20 and instructs the respective operation contents to the plurality of types of air conditioning devices connected communicably. And when the air conditioner remote controller 1 is activated, the control unit 15 displays on the home screen D0 displayed on the display unit 20 the main device setting information 30 which is information about the current setting content regarding the air conditioner 3 determined in advance as the main device among the plurality of types of air conditioning devices, and does not display the information about the current setting content regarding the other types of air conditioning devices not determined as the main device. Further, when the control unit 15 receives a predefined first operation from the operation unit 21 while the home screen D0 is being displayed on the display unit 20, it displays on the display unit 20 the main device setting screen D1 which is a screen for changing the settings of the air conditioner 3 which is the main device. On the other hand, when the control unit 15 receives a predefined second operation from the operation unit 21 while the home screen D0 is being displayed on the display unit 20, it displays on the display unit 20 a menu screen D2 for selecting which type of air conditioning device's operation content to set.

[0126] Thereby, in the air conditioner remote controller 1, the plurality of types of air conditioning devices are divided into the main device and the other devices, and the display and change of the settings of the air conditioner 3 as the main device, which is frequently used, can be preferentially performed centering on the home screen D0, while the confirmation of the operation state and the setting change of the air conditioning devices other than the air conditioner 3 can be performed through the menu screen. As a result, in the air conditioner remote controller 1, it is possible to suppress the complication of the display information on one screen and the complication of the operations until reaching the setting display screen and the setting operation screen of the various air conditioning devices, so that the convenience for the user P can be improved. That is, the setting and / or display of the information of the plurality of types of air conditioning devices including the air conditioner 3 can be performed by an easy-to-understand operation using one air conditioner remote controller 1.

[0127] In addition, the control unit 15 displays on the menu screen D2 an air-conditioning type object 33 which is an object indicating each type of selectable air conditioner, and when receiving a user selection operation of selecting any one of the air-conditioning type objects 33 from the operation unit 21, the control unit 15 causes the display unit 20 to display an air conditioner setting screen D21 which is a screen for changing the setting of the selected type of air conditioner.

[0128] Thereby, the user P can easily select from the menu screen D2 the type of air conditioner for which the operation content is to be set, from among a plurality of air-conditioning type objects 33, so that an operation that is easier for the user P to understand can be realized.

[0129] The air-conditioning type object 33 displayed on the menu screen D2 is an object indicating each type of air conditioner communicably connected to the control unit 15, and an air-conditioning type object 33 indicating a type of air conditioner not communicably connected to the control unit 15 is not displayed on the menu screen D2.

[0130] Thereby, the user P can easily confirm the types of air conditioners that can be set, so that the usability of the air conditioner remote controller 1 for setting a plurality of types of air conditioners is improved.

[0131] The control unit 15 displays on the menu screen D2 air conditioner state information 34 which is information about the state of the air conditioner for each type of air conditioner communicably connected to the control unit 15. Thereby, the operating state of the air conditioners that can be set can be easily confirmed, so that the usability of the air conditioner remote controller 1 for setting a plurality of types of air conditioners is further improved.

[0132] When the control unit 15 displays the menu screen D2 on the display unit 20, if information indicating a problem has been received from any of the air conditioners, it includes the display of an abnormality notification 36 notifying the problem in the air conditioner state information 34 for the corresponding air conditioner. As a result, the user P can quickly check the air conditioner with the problem on the menu screen D2, further improving the usability of the air conditioner remote controller 1.

[0133] When the control unit 15 displays the home screen D0 on the display unit 20, if information indicating a problem has been received from at least one air conditioner, it displays an abnormality notification 31 notifying the problem on the home screen D0. Then, when a predefined third operation is received from the operation unit 21 while the abnormality notification 31 is being displayed on the home screen D0, the control unit 15 displays an overall abnormality information screen D3 showing information about the content of the operation abnormality of each of the air conditioners with problems on the display unit 20.

[0134] According to this, even when a problem occurs in an air conditioner other than the air conditioner 3 which is the main device, since the abnormality notification 31 is displayed on the home screen D0, the user P can quickly check the occurrence of a highly urgent problem and take corresponding measures. As a result, the usability of the air conditioner remote controller 1 handling multiple types of air conditioners is further improved.

[0135] The control unit 15 may be configured to operate in either a first display mode or a second display mode in which the display content of the home screen is different. Here, the first display mode is, for example, an operation mode in which on the home screen D0, main device setting information 30 which is information about the current setting content for the air conditioner 3 which has been predefined as the main device among multiple types of air conditioners is displayed, and information about the current setting content of other types of air conditioners not defined as the main device is not displayed. Also, the second display mode is an operation mode in which on the home screen D0, the main device setting information and information about the current setting content of other types of air conditioners not defined as the main device are displayed.

[0136] Thus, when the user P wants to check the setting contents of air conditioning devices other than the air conditioner 3 which is the main device even on the home screen D0, the user P can check the information of those air conditioning devices using the second display mode. Therefore, in the air conditioner remote controller 1 that handles multiple types of air conditioning devices, a display according to the user's needs can be realized.

[0137] A remote controller control method executed by a processor 10 which is a computer of an air conditioner remote controller 1 that includes a display unit 20 having a display panel 20a and an operation unit 21 having operation buttons operated by a user to receive user operations and instructs operation contents to multiple types of air conditioning devices includes a home screen display step (S100) of displaying a home screen D0 on the display unit 20 when the air conditioner remote controller 1 is activated, and an operation-specific display step (the whole of steps S104, S108, S112, S124, S128, S132, and S136) of displaying an operation-specific screen corresponding to the received user operation on the display unit 20 when a user operation is received by the operation unit 21 while the home screen D0 is being displayed.

[0138] In the home screen display step, main device setting information 30 which is information about the current setting contents regarding the air conditioner 3 which is defined in advance as the main device among multiple types of air conditioning devices is displayed on the home screen D0, and information about the current setting contents regarding other types of air conditioning devices that are not defined as the main device is not displayed. Also, in the operation-specific display step, when the home screen D0 is being displayed on the display unit 20 and a first operation defined in advance is received from the operation unit 21, a main device setting screen D1 which is a screen for changing the setting of the air conditioner 3 which is the main device is displayed on the display unit 20 (steps S102, S104). Also, in the operation-specific display step, when the home screen D0 is being displayed on the display unit 20 and a second operation defined in advance is received from the operation unit 21, a menu screen D2 for selecting which type of air conditioning device's operation contents to set is displayed (steps S122, S124).

[0139] According to this, it has the same effect as the air conditioner remote controller 1 described above.

[0140] Also, the program 13 which is a remote controller program causes a computer of a terminal device including a display unit 20 having a display panel 20a and an operation unit 21 for receiving user operations to function as a control unit 15 that controls screen output to the display unit 20 and instructs each operation content to a plurality of types of air conditioners communicably connected thereto. When the terminal device is activated, the control unit 15 displays, on a home screen D0 displayed on the display unit 20, main device setting information 30 which is information about current setting contents regarding a heating and cooling device 3 defined in advance as a main device among a plurality of types of air conditioners, and does not display information about current setting contents regarding other types of air conditioners not defined as the main device. Further, when the control unit 15 receives a first operation defined in advance from the operation unit 21 while the home screen D0 is being displayed on the display unit 20, the control unit 15 displays, on the display unit 20, a main device setting screen D1 which is a screen for changing the setting of the heating and cooling device 3 which is the main device. On the other hand, when the control unit 15 receives a second operation defined in advance from the operation unit 21 while the home screen D0 is being displayed on the display unit 20, the control unit 15 displays, on the display unit 20, a menu screen D2 for selecting which type of air conditioner operation content is to be set.

[0141] According to this, it has the same effect as the air conditioner remote controller 1 described above.

[0142] (Other embodiments) As described above, as an example disclosed in the present application, the above embodiments have been described. However, the technology in the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can also be applied to embodiments in which changes, replacements, additions, omissions, etc. are made. Also, it is possible to combine the respective components described in the above embodiments to form a new embodiment. Therefore, other embodiments will be exemplified below.

[0143] In the above-described embodiment, the main device is assumed to be the air conditioner 3. However, the main device may be an air conditioning device other than the air conditioner 3, for example, an air purifier 4 or a ventilation device 5. Which type of air conditioning device is used as the main device can be arbitrarily set by the user P on a setting screen (not shown) displayed by the control unit 15 when, for example, the setting object 40 on the menu screen D2 shown in FIG. 9 is selected.

[0144] In the above-described embodiment, the air conditioner remote controller 1 is assumed to instruct the operation details of three types of air conditioning devices: the air conditioner 3, the air purifier 4, and the ventilation device 5. However, the number of types of air conditioning devices that the air conditioner remote controller 1 instructs may be two types (for example, the air conditioner 3 and the ventilation device 5). However, when the air conditioner remote controller 1 is configured to handle the above three types of air conditioning devices as in the above-described embodiment, the user P can operate the three types of air conditioning devices in a coordinated manner. The above coordinated operation can be, for example, when hot air from the outside air accumulates in the target space S in summer, first operating the ventilation device 5 to lower the room temperature with the outside air, then operating the air conditioner 3 in the cooling mode to further lower the room temperature, and finally operating the air purifier to adjust the humidity.

[0145] Also, in the above-described embodiment, the air conditioner remote controller 1 is configured to handle multiple types of air conditioning devices. However, it may be further configured to give instructions to devices other than the air conditioning devices. Such devices can be, for example, a circulator that generates an air current in the target space S or a lighting device in the target space S. The setting information screen and the setting screen for these devices other than the air conditioning devices can be displayed on the display unit 20 via the menu screen D2. Alternatively, a device other than the air conditioning device may be set as the main device, and the operation content may be instructed to the device other than the air conditioning device by an operation centered on the home screen D0.

[0146] In the above-described embodiment, it is assumed that when the air conditioner remote controller 1 is activated, the home screen D0 is displayed on the display unit 20. However, this is merely an example, and the control unit 15 may display another initial screen (for example, an opening screen that displays a manufacturer logo or the like) when the air conditioner remote controller 1 is activated, and may display the home screen D0 in response to the pressing of the menu button 21b provided on the operation unit 21 or any other arbitrary button. Alternatively, the operation unit 21 may be provided with a home button (not shown) for instructing the control unit 15 to switch from the initial screen to the home screen D0.

[0147] In the above-described embodiment, in the example of the menu screen D2 shown in FIG. 9, the air conditioner type object 33 is assumed to be a rectangular graphic object, but it may be another type of object such as text or an icon. Also, in the example of the menu screen D2 shown in FIG. 9, the air conditioner state information 34 is assumed to be superimposed on the air conditioner type object 33, but it may be displayed as a separate object different from the air conditioner type object 33.

[0148] The air conditioner remote controller 1 is configured as a dedicated terminal device in the above-described embodiment, but it may be a terminal device such as a general-purpose portable terminal equipped with a touch panel (for example, a smartphone). When the air conditioner remote controller 1 is configured by a portable terminal such as a smartphone, the display unit 20 and the operation unit 21 can be configured by the touch panel and physical switches provided on the portable terminal. Also, when the air conditioner remote controller 1 is equipped with a touch panel, the display unit 20 and the operation unit 21 can be integrally configured by a single touch panel.

[0149] Note that the above-described embodiment is for exemplifying the technology in the present disclosure, and various changes, replacements, additions, omissions, etc. can be made within the scope of the claims or the equivalent scope thereof.

[0150] (Supplementary Note) The following technology is disclosed according to the description of the above embodiments.

[0151] (Technology 1) An air conditioner remote controller for instructing operation contents to a plurality of types of air conditioners, comprising: a display unit having a display panel; an operation unit having a plurality of operation buttons operated by a user to receive user operations; and a control unit for controlling screen output to the display unit and instructing respective operation contents to the plurality of types of air conditioners communicably connected thereto. The control unit displays, on a home screen displayed on the display unit, main device setting information which is information about current setting contents regarding a cooling and heating device previously defined as a main device among the plurality of types of air conditioners, and does not display information about current setting contents regarding other types of air conditioners not defined as the main device. When the home screen is being displayed on the display unit and a predefined first operation is received from the operation unit, a main device setting screen which is a screen for changing the setting of the cooling and heating device which is the main device is displayed on the display unit. When a predefined second operation is received from the operation unit, a menu screen for selecting which type of air conditioner's operation contents to set is displayed. An air conditioner remote controller.

[0152] According to this, a plurality of types of air conditioners are divided into a main device and other devices, and while the display and change of the settings of the cooling and heating device as the main device, which is frequently used, can be preferentially performed centered on the home screen, the confirmation of the operation state and the change of the settings of air conditioners other than the cooling and heating device can be performed through the menu screen, so that the screen can be configured. As a result, it is possible to suppress the complication of the display information on one screen and the complication of the operations until reaching the setting display screen and the setting operation screen of various air conditioners, thus improving the convenience for the user. That is, the setting and / or display of information of a plurality of types of air conditioners including the cooling and heating device can be performed by using one remote controller with an easy-to-understand operation.

[0153] (Technology 2) The control unit displays, on the menu screen, an air-conditioning type object which is an object indicating each of the selectable types of the air conditioner, and when receiving a user selection operation of selecting any one of the air-conditioning type objects from the operation unit, displays, on the display unit, an air conditioner setting screen which is a screen for changing the setting of the selected type of air conditioner, the air conditioner remote controller according to Technology 1.

[0154] According to this, the user can easily select, from the menu screen, the type of the air conditioner for which the operation content is to be set, from among a plurality of air-conditioning type objects, so that an operation that is easier for the user to understand can be realized.

[0155] (Technology 3) The air-conditioning type object displayed on the menu screen is an object indicating each of the types of the air conditioners communicably connected to the control unit, and the air-conditioning type object indicating the types of the air conditioners not communicably connected to the control unit is not displayed on the menu screen, the air conditioner remote controller according to Technology 2.

[0156] According to this, the user can easily confirm the types of the air conditioners for which settings can be made, so that the usability of the air conditioner remote controller for setting a plurality of types of air conditioners can be improved.

[0157] (Technology 4) The control unit displays, on the menu screen, air conditioner status information which is information about the status of the air conditioner for each type of the air conditioners communicably connected to the control unit, the air conditioner remote controller according to Technology 2 or 3.

[0158] According to this, the user can easily confirm the operating status of the air conditioners for which settings can be made, so that the usability of the air conditioner remote controller for setting a plurality of types of air conditioners is further improved.

[0159] (Technology 5) When the control unit displays the menu screen on the display unit, if information indicating a problem is received from any of the air conditioners, an abnormal notification indicating the occurrence of the problem is included in the air conditioner status information for the corresponding air conditioner. The air conditioner remote controller according to Technology 4.

[0160] According to this, the user can quickly check the air conditioner with a problem on the menu screen, so the usability of the air conditioner remote controller is further improved.

[0161] (Technology 6) When the control unit displays the home screen on the display unit, if information indicating a problem is received from at least one of the air conditioners, an abnormal notification indicating the occurrence of the problem is displayed on the home screen. When the abnormal notification is displayed on the home screen and a predefined third operation is received from the operation unit, an abnormal information screen showing information about the content of the operation abnormality of each of the air conditioners with problems is displayed on the display unit. The air conditioner remote controller according to any one of Technologies 2 to 5.

[0162] According to this, even when a problem occurs in an air conditioner other than the main heating and cooling device, an abnormal notification is displayed on the home screen, so the user can quickly check the occurrence of a highly urgent problem and take corresponding measures. As a result, the usability of the air conditioner remote controller that handles multiple types of air conditioners is further improved.

[0163] (Technique 7) The control unit operates in an operation mode of either a first display mode or a second display mode in which the display content of the home screen is different. The first display mode is an operation mode in which main device setting information, which is information about the current setting content of the air conditioner determined in advance as the main device among a plurality of types of air conditioners, is displayed on the home screen, and information about the current setting content of other types of air conditioners not determined as the main device is not displayed. The second display mode is an operation mode in which the main device setting information and information about the current setting content of other types of air conditioners not determined as the main device are displayed on the home screen. The air conditioner remote controller according to any one of Techniques 1 to 6.

[0164] According to this, when the user wants to check the setting content of air conditioners other than the air conditioner that is the main device even on the home screen, the user can check the information of those air conditioners using the second display mode. Therefore, in an air conditioner remote controller that handles a plurality of types of air conditioners, it is possible to realize a display according to the user's needs.

[0165] (Technology 8) A remote controller control method executed by a computer of an air conditioner remote controller that instructs operation contents to a plurality of types of air conditioners, the air conditioner remote controller including a display unit having a display panel and an operation unit having operation buttons operated by a user to receive user operations, the method including: a home screen display step of displaying a home screen on the display unit; and an operation-specific display step of displaying an operation-specific screen corresponding to the received user operation on the display unit when a user operation is received by the operation unit while the home screen is being displayed. In the home screen display step, main device setting information, which is information about current setting contents regarding a heating and cooling device previously defined as a main device among the plurality of types of air conditioners, is displayed on the home screen, and information about current setting contents regarding other types of air conditioners not defined as the main device is not displayed. In the operation-specific display step, when a first operation defined in advance is received from the operation unit while the home screen is being displayed on the display unit, a main device setting screen, which is a screen for changing the settings of the heating and cooling device that is the main device, is displayed on the display unit, and when a second operation defined in advance is received from the operation unit, a menu screen for selecting which type of air conditioner's operation contents to set is displayed.

[0166] According to this, the same effects as those of the air conditioner remote controller of Technology 1 are achieved.

[0167] (Technique 9) A computer of a terminal device including a display unit having a display panel and an operation unit for receiving user operations functions as a control unit that controls screen output to the display unit and instructs respective operation contents to a plurality of types of air conditioners communicably connected thereto. The control unit displays, on a home screen displayed on the display unit, main device setting information which is information about current setting contents regarding a heating and cooling device previously defined as a main device among the plurality of types of air conditioners, and does not display information about current setting contents regarding other types of air conditioners not defined as the main device. When the home screen is being displayed on the display unit and a predefined first operation is received from the operation unit, a main device setting screen which is a screen for changing settings of the heating and cooling device as the main device is displayed on the display unit. When a predefined second operation is received from the operation unit, a menu screen for selecting which type of air conditioner's operation content is to be set is displayed. Remote controller program.

[0168] According to this, it has the same effect as the air conditioner remote controller of Technique 1.

Industrial Applicability

[0169] As described above, the air conditioner remote controller, remote controller control method, and remote controller program according to the present disclosure can be used for applications in which settings and / or display of information of a plurality of types of air conditioners are performed using one remote controller.

Explanation of Signs

[0170] 1 Air conditioner remote controller 2 Air conditioning system 3 Heating and cooling device 4 Air purifying device 5 Ventilation device 6 Air quality sensor 7, 8 Communication line 10 Processor 11 Memory 12 Communication device 13 Program 14 Information acquisition unit 15 Control unit 20 Display unit 20a Display panel 21 Operation unit 21a Operation / stop button 21b Menu button 21c Back button 21d Decision button 21e Up button 21f Down button 21g Left button 21h Right button 30 Main device setting information 30a Set temperature value 30b Operation mode setting 30c Air volume setting 30d Air direction setting 31, 32, 36, 36a, 36b, 36c, 40a, 40b, 40c Abnormality notification 33 Air conditioner type object 33a First air conditioner type object 33b Second air conditioner type object 33c Third air conditioner type object 34 Air conditioner status information 34a First air conditioner status information 34b Second air conditioner status information 34c Third air conditioner status information 35, 35a, 35b, 35c Operation information 37 Display of other operation information 38 Room temperature display 39 Air quality information 41 Tab D0 Home screen D1 Main device setting screen D2 Menu screen D3 Overall abnormality information screen D12 Overall information screen D21 Air conditioner setting screen D21a First air conditioner setting screen D21b Second air conditioner setting screen D21c 3rd Air Conditioner Setting Screen D22 Abnormal Information Screen D22a 1st Air Conditioner Abnormal Information Screen D22b 2nd Air Conditioner Abnormal Information Screen D22c 3rd Air Conditioner Abnormal Information Screen D23 General Information Screen D23a 1st Air Conditioner General Information Screen D23b 2nd Air Conditioner General Information Screen D23c 3rd Air Conditioner General Information Screen P User S Target Space

Claims

1. An air conditioner remote controller for instructing operation contents to a plurality of types of air conditioners, a display unit having a display panel, an operation unit having a plurality of operation buttons operated by a user and receiving user operations, a control unit that controls screen output to the display unit and instructs respective operation contents to the plurality of types of air conditioners communicably connected thereto, and having, the control unit, displays, on a home screen displayed on the display unit, main device setting information which is information about current setting contents regarding a heating and cooling device previously defined as a main device among the plurality of types of air conditioners, and does not display information about current setting contents regarding other types of air conditioners not defined as the main device, when the home screen is being displayed on the display unit, when receiving a first operation defined in advance from the operation unit, displays a main device setting screen, which is a screen for changing the setting of the heating and cooling device which is the main device, on the display unit, when receiving a second operation defined in advance from the operation unit, displays a menu screen for selecting which type of air conditioner's operation contents to set, an air conditioner remote controller.

2. the control unit, displays, on the menu screen, air conditioner type objects which are objects indicating each of the selectable types of air conditioners, when receiving a user selection operation of selecting any one of the air conditioner type objects from the operation unit, displays an air conditioner setting screen, which is a screen for changing the setting of the selected type of air conditioner, on the display unit, The air conditioner remote controller according to claim 1.

3. The air conditioner type objects displayed on the menu screen are objects indicating each of the types of air conditioners communicably connected to the control unit, and the air conditioner type objects indicating the types of air conditioners not communicably connected to the control unit are not displayed on the menu screen, The air conditioner remote controller according to claim 2.

4. the control unit, displays, on the menu screen, air conditioner status information which is information about the status of the air conditioner for each type of the air conditioners communicably connected to the control unit, The air conditioner remote controller according to claim 2.

5. the control unit, When displaying the menu screen on the display unit, if information indicating a problem is received from any of the air conditioners, an abnormal notification indicating the occurrence of the problem is included in the air conditioner status information for the corresponding air conditioner. The air conditioner remote controller according to claim 4.

6. The control unit When displaying the home screen on the display unit, if information indicating a problem is received from at least one of the air conditioners, an abnormal notification indicating the occurrence of the problem is displayed on the home screen. When the abnormal notification is being displayed on the home screen and a predefined third operation is received from the operation unit, an abnormal information screen showing information about the content of the operation abnormality of each of the air conditioners having problems is displayed on the display unit. The air conditioner remote controller according to claim 2.

7. The control unit operates in either a first display mode or a second display mode in which the display content of the home screen is different. In the first display mode, main device setting information, which is information about the current setting content for a heating and cooling device previously defined as the main device among a plurality of types of air conditioners, is displayed on the home screen, and information about the current setting content for other types of air conditioners not defined as the main device is not displayed. In the second display mode, the main device setting information and information about the current setting content for other types of air conditioners not defined as the main device are displayed on the home screen. The air conditioner remote controller according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. A remote controller control method executed by a computer of an air conditioner remote controller that includes a display unit having a display panel and an operation unit having operation buttons operated by a user to receive user operations, and that instructs operation contents for a plurality of types of air conditioners, A home screen display step of displaying a home screen on the display unit, An operation-specific display step of displaying an operation-specific screen corresponding to the received user operation on the display unit when a user operation is received by the operation unit while the home screen is being displayed. having In the home screen display step, on the home screen, main device setting information, which is information about the current setting content regarding the air conditioner defined in advance as the main device among the plurality of types of air conditioners, is displayed, and information about the current setting content regarding other types of air conditioners not defined as the main device is not displayed. In the operation-specific display step, when the home screen is being displayed on the display unit, when a first operation defined in advance is received from the operation unit, a main device setting screen, which is a screen for changing the settings of the air conditioner (heating and cooling device) that is the main device, is displayed on the display unit. when a second operation defined in advance is received from the operation unit, a menu screen for selecting which type of air conditioner's operation content is to be set is displayed. Remote controller control method.

9. A remote controller program that causes a computer of a terminal device including a display unit having a display panel and an operation unit for receiving user operations to function as a control unit for instructing the operation content of a plurality of types of air conditioners that are communicably connected and control the screen output to the display unit, wherein the control unit displays, on the home screen to be displayed on the display unit, main device setting information, which is information about the current setting content regarding the air conditioner (heating and cooling device) defined in advance as the main device among the plurality of types of air conditioners, and does not display information about the current setting content regarding other types of air conditioners not defined as the main device. when the home screen is being displayed on the display unit, when a first operation defined in advance is received from the operation unit, a main device setting screen, which is a screen for changing the settings of the air conditioner (heating and cooling device) that is the main device, is displayed on the display unit. when a second operation defined in advance is received from the operation unit, a menu screen for selecting which type of air conditioner's operation content is to be set is displayed. Remote controller program.

Images