Air conditioning system and information processing device

Abstract

To provide a technology capable of performing air conditioning that improves comfort and productivity of a plurality of users in a space in which the users are present.SOLUTION: An air conditioning system includes an air conditioner which can independently adjust a state quantity of airflow to be generated in each of a plurality of division areas set in a space, a biological information detection device for performing biological information detection processing for detecting biological information included in at least either information of heartbeats and pulse waves of all users existing in each of the plurality of division areas in each division area in a non-contact manner, and an information processing device for generating an air conditioning operation command to independently control the state quantity of airflow to be generated in each of the plurality of division areas by controlling the air conditioner on the basis of the biological information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the technology of air conditioning systems.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technology related to an air conditioning system that controls the environment of the space where a user is present so as to suppress a decrease in the concentration of the user's intellectual work. In this technology, the biological information of the user present in the space to be controlled is acquired, and the presence or absence of a decrease in concentration is determined based on the biological information. Then, when a decrease in concentration is determined, an operation is performed to reduce the user's sense of warmth or cold.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the space to be controlled by the air conditioning system, it is conceivable that there are multiple users. Since the air conditioning system of Patent Document 1 does not have a configuration for evaluating the biological information of multiple users, there is a problem in performing air conditioning to improve the comfort and productivity of these users.

[0005] This disclosure has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide a technology capable of performing air conditioning for improving the comfort and productivity of multiple users in a space where multiple users are present.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The air conditioning system of the present disclosure includes an air conditioner capable of independently adjusting the state quantity of the airflow generated in each of a plurality of divided areas set in a space, a biological information detection device that performs a biological information detection process for non-contact detection of biological information including at least one of the heartbeat and pulse wave information of all users existing in each of the plurality of divided areas for each divided area, and an information processing device that generates an air conditioning operation command for independently controlling the state quantity of the airflow generated in each of the plurality of divided areas by controlling the air conditioner based on the biological information.

[0007] Further, the information processing device of the present disclosure is an information processing device that controls an air conditioner according to an air conditioning operation command for independently adjusting the state quantity of the airflow generated in each of a plurality of divided areas set in a space, and includes at least one processor and a memory storing at least one program. The at least one processor is configured to execute at least one program to perform a biological information detection process for non-contact detection of biological information including at least one of the heartbeat and pulse wave information of all users existing in each of the plurality of divided areas for each divided area, detect a biological information index value serving as an index of the state of the living body of all users existing in each of the plurality of divided areas for each divided area based on the biological information for each divided area, determine whether an air conditioning operation command needs to be generated for each divided area based on a comparison between each biological information index value and a threshold value in a state determination process, and generate an air conditioning operation command for a divided area determined to require generation of an air conditioning operation command in the state determination process in an air conditioning operation command generation process.

Advantages of the Invention

[0008] According to the technology of the present disclosure, it is possible to perform air conditioning for improving the comfort and productivity of these users in a space where a plurality of users exist.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are given to common elements, and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

[0011] Embodiment. 1. Configuration of the air conditioning system according to the embodiment FIG. 1 is a side view showing an application example of the air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a plan view schematically showing an example of a space to which the air conditioning system of the embodiment is applied. The air conditioning system 100 is for suppressing a decrease in the comfort and productivity of a plurality of users 50 present in the space S as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 or for improving the comfort and productivity of the users 50.

[0012] The space S is, for example, the internal space of one room. Inside the space S, a seating type table 101 and chairs and the like arranged so as to surround the table 101 are installed. In the example shown in FIG. 1, two users 50 are present in the space S. In the space S, there are no limitations on the types, shapes, arrangements, quantities, etc. of the table 101 and chairs.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the control system of the air conditioning system. The air conditioning system 100 according to the present embodiment includes an air conditioner 1, an information processing device 30, and a biological information detection device 40. Hereinafter, the configurations of the air conditioner 1, the biological information detection device 40, and the information processing device 30 will be described with reference to FIG. 3 as well.

[0014] 2. Air conditioner 1 The air conditioner 1 performs air conditioning operations such as cooling operation, heating operation, and blowing operation on the air in the space S. The air conditioner 1 is configured to be able to adjust the air flow direction, air flow temperature, and air flow strength of the blown air flow.

[0015] The air conditioner 1 includes an indoor unit. The indoor unit is installed, for example, on the ceiling surface of a room that partitions the space S. The indoor unit may be configured to be installed on the floor surface or wall surface within the space S. In the following description, the indoor unit of the air conditioner 1 may sometimes be simply referred to as the "air conditioner 1".

[0016] FIG. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing the appearance of the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to the present embodiment. The indoor unit of the air conditioner 1 includes a housing 6. The housing 6 is formed in a box shape presenting a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. A decorative panel 8 having a rectangular or square shape is provided at the lower part of the housing 6. The indoor unit of the air conditioner 1 is installed in a recessed form in the ceiling so that the decorative panel 8 can be seen exposed from the ceiling surface.

[0017] An air suction port 3 is formed at the lower part of the housing 6. The air suction port 3 is an opening for taking air from the outside into the inside of the housing 6. As an example, the air suction port 3 is arranged at the central part of the decorative panel 8 as shown in FIG. 3.

[0018] Also, a plurality of air outlets 4 are formed at the lower part of the housing 6. The air outlets 4 are openings for discharging the air flow from the inside of the housing 6 to the outside. In the present embodiment, as an example, four air outlets 4 are formed. The four air outlets 4 are arranged around the air suction port 3 as shown in FIG. 4. The four air outlets 4 are respectively provided along each side of the decorative panel 8.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 2 or FIG. 3, the air conditioner 1 includes an up-down louver 2, a left-right louver 5, an air-conditioning fan motor 7, a temperature adjustment device 9, and an air-conditioning control unit 10 as a configuration for controlling the air flow temperature, air flow direction, and air flow strength of the air blown out from the air outlet 4.

[0020] The upper and lower louvers 2 are provided at each of the air outlets 4. The upper and lower louvers 2 are for adjusting the vertical blowing angle of the air flow blown out from the air outlet 4. The upper and lower louvers 2 are members having a rectangular plate shape. One end of the upper and lower louvers 2 is rotatably attached to the edge of the air outlet 4. By rotating the upper and lower louvers 2 about this one end, the vertical blowing angle of the air flow blown out from the air outlet 4 is changed. Each of the plurality of upper and lower louvers 2 can be driven independently.

[0021] The left and right louvers 5 are provided inside each of the upper and lower louvers 2 and are for adjusting the left and right blowing angles of the air flow blown out from the air outlet 4. The left and right louvers 5 are composed of a plurality of members having a rectangular plate shape. These plurality of members having a rectangular plate shape are arranged along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the air outlet 4. One end of the left and right louvers 5 is rotatably attached to the inner side portion of the edge of the air outlet 4. By rotating the left and right louvers 5 about this one end, the left and right blowing angles of the air flow blown out from the air outlet 4 are changed. Each of the plurality of left and right louvers 5 can be driven independently. Note that the upper and lower louvers 2 and the left and right louvers 5 can be driven independently of each other. According to such a configuration of the air conditioner 1, the air flow directions of the air blown out from the plurality of air outlets 4 can be adjusted independently.

[0022] Also, when the direction of the upper and lower louvers 2 is set to be the most upward, the air outlet 4 is blocked by the upper and lower louvers 2. The air conditioner 1 according to the present embodiment can also stop the air blowing from a part of the plurality of air outlets 4 by blocking the part of the air outlets 4 with the upper and lower louvers 2.

[0023] Inside the housing 6, an air passage (not shown) that leads from the suction port 3 to the blowout port 4 is formed. The air-conditioning fan motor 7 is for generating an air current that goes from the suction port 3 toward the blowout port 4 in the air passage inside the housing 6. When the air-conditioning fan motor 7 operates, air is sucked in from the suction port 3 and blown out from the blowout port 4. By changing the rotational speed of the air-conditioning fan motor 7, the strength of the air current of the air flow blown out from the blowout port 4 can be changed.

[0024] The temperature adjustment device 9 includes a heat exchanger (not shown) disposed in the air passage. The heat exchanger performs heat exchange between the air current passing through the air passage and the refrigerant sent from an outdoor unit (not shown) via a refrigerant pipe, and cools or heats the air flow blown out from the blowout port 4. The temperature adjustment device 9 adjusts the air current temperature by controlling the rotational speed of a compressor (not shown) built in the outdoor unit.

[0025] The air-conditioning control unit 10 controls the operations of the plurality of upper and lower louvers 2, the plurality of left and right louvers 5, the air-conditioning fan motor 7, and the temperature adjustment device 9 according to an air-conditioning operation command received from an information processing device 30 described later.

[0026] 3. Biometric information detection device 40 The biometric information detection device 40 is a device that detects the biometric information of all users existing in the space S. The biometric information detection device 40 includes a vital sensor 42 and a sensor operation mechanism 44. The vital sensor 42 is a sensor capable of non-contact detection of the biometric information of a user existing within a detection range that spreads in a specific direction. The data detected by the vital sensor 42 includes at least one of the biometric information of the user's heartbeat and pulse wave.

[0027] The vital sensor 42 irradiates, for example, microwaves or millimeter waves within its detection range. Due to the slight displacement of the chest caused by the beating of the heart of the user present in the detection range, the Doppler effect occurs, causing the frequency of the irradiated microwaves or millimeter waves to fluctuate. The vital sensor 42 detects the reflected wave data including this frequency fluctuation as biometric information data. By analyzing the detected biometric information data, the heart rate or pulse wave of the user present in the detection range is detected.

[0028] Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the waveform of a person's heart rate or pulse rate. As shown in Figure 5, a person's heart rate or pulse rate marks beats such as the P wave, QRS wave, and T wave. The number of peak Rs per unit time corresponds to the heart rate or pulse rate. Also, the heart rate interval or pulse rate interval from a specific peak R to the next peak R is called the RRI; R-R Interval. When there are multiple users in the detection range, the waveform detected from the heart rate data of all users will be a waveform like the waveform shown in Figure 5 overlaid by the number of users. Therefore, in the waveform detected from the heart rate data of all users, the number of peak Rs per unit time is the sum value of the heart rates of all these users. This sum value of the combined heart rates is hereinafter referred to as the "combined heart rate value".

[0029] The vital sensor 42 is installed, for example, on the decorative panel 8 of the indoor unit of the air conditioner 1. Note that the installation position of the vital sensor 42 is not limited to this example. For example, the vital sensor 42 may be installed at any position such as the ceiling surface or wall surface of the room in which the space S is formed, within a range where it can non-contact detect the biometric information of the user 50 within the space S.

[0030] The sensor operating mechanism 44 is a device for changing the orientation of the detection range of the vital sensor 42. Typically, the sensor operating mechanism 44 operates the vital sensor 42 in a rotational direction about a vertical axis to sequentially rotate the detection range. As a result, the vital sensor 42 can sequentially detect the biological information data D(i) (i = 1 to n) of a plurality of divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to n) obtained by dividing the space S into n parts. Here, i is an area identification number. The biological information data D(i) associated with the area identification number i of the divided area AR(i) is transmitted to an information processing device 30 described later via a communication line.

[0031] 4. Information Processing Device 30 The information processing device 30 has the functions of a processing device as a computer. The information processing device 30 independently controls the state quantities of the airflow generated in each divided area AR(i) according to the biological information data D(i) (i = 1 to n) including the biological information of the user 50 existing in each of the divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to n) obtained by dividing the space S into n parts. Typically, the information processing device 30 includes at least one processor 32 and at least one memory 34 coupled to the processor 32. The memory 34 stores at least one program 341 executable by the processor 32 and various data 342 related thereto. By the processor 32 executing the program 341, various processes by the processor 32 are realized.

[0032] FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram showing the functions realized when the processor 32 of the information processing device 30 executes the program 341. As shown in FIG. 6, the processor 32 includes a biological information detection unit 321, a position determination unit 322, a state determination unit 323, and an air conditioning operation command unit 324.

[0033] The biological information detection unit 321 is a functional block for setting the divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to n) divided in the space S and sequentially detecting the biological information of the users existing in each divided area using the biological information detection device 40. This process is hereinafter referred to as "biological information detection process".

[0034] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a routine in which the information processing apparatus 30 executes biometric information detection processing. In step S100 of the routine shown in FIG. 7, the initial value of the area identification number i of the divided area AR(i) (i = 1 to n) that is the detection target of biometric information is set to i = 1. In the next step S102, the sensor operation mechanism 44 is driven, and the detection range of the vital sensor 42 is rotationally moved to the divided area AR(i) (i = 1).

[0035] In the next step S104, the biometric information data D(i) (i = 1) of all users existing in the divided area AR(i) (i = 1) is detected using the vital sensor 42. In the next step S106, the biometric information data D(i) (i = 1) detected in step S104 is stored in the area of data 342 in the memory 34.

[0036] In the next step S108, it is determined whether the area identification number i is set to the final value i = n. As a result, if the establishment of i = n is not recognized, it is determined that biometric information has not been detected in the entire range of the space S, and the process proceeds to step S110. On the other hand, if the establishment of i = n is recognized, it is determined that biometric information has been detected in the entire range of the space S, and the processing of this routine is terminated.

[0037] In step S110, the area identification number i is incremented. When the process of step S110 is performed, the processes of steps S102 to S108 are performed again. In this way, by repeating the processes of steps S102 to S108 until the area identification number i = n, the biometric information data D(i) (i = 1 to n) in the entire range of the space S is detected.

[0038] The position determination unit 322 is a functional block for determining a divided area AR(i) corresponding to the detection range in which each of the biological information data D(i) (i = 1 to n) is detected. This process is hereinafter referred to as "position determination process". In the position determination process, the position determination unit 322 determines the corresponding divided area AR(i) from the area identification number i associated with the biological information data D(i). Alternatively, when the identification information of the divided area AR(i) is associated with the biological information data D(i) in another form, the position determination unit 322 determines the divided area AR(i) corresponding to the biological information data D(i) based on the identification information.

[0039] The state determination unit 323 is a functional block for determining the states of all users existing in the divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to n) determined by the position determination unit 322 based on the biological information data D(i) (i = 1 to n). This process is hereinafter referred to as "state determination process". Typically, in the state determination process, the state determination unit 323 detects the total heart rate value HB(i) (i = 1 to n) of all users existing in the divided area AR(i) as a biological information index value used for determining whether to generate an air conditioning operation command described later for the divided area AR(i). The total heart rate value HB is an average index of the warmth / coldness feeling, comfort level, or concentration of all users. Typically, when the average warmth / coldness feeling of all users is high, the total heart rate value HB is a lower value compared to when the average warmth / coldness feeling is low. Also, when the average comfort level of all users is low, the total heart rate value HB is a lower value compared to when the average comfort level is high. Furthermore, when the average concentration of all users is low, the total heart rate value HB is a lower value compared to when the average concentration is high.

[0040] In the state determination process, the state determination unit 323 determines whether air conditioning control is required in the divided area AR(i) by comparing the detected total heart rate value HB(i) with a threshold value TH1. As the threshold value TH1 here, for example, the average value of the total heart rate values HB(i) (i = 1 to n) in each of the divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to n) can be used.

[0041] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of changes in the total heart rate value of all users existing within a divided area. In FIG. 8, the average value of the total heart rate values HB(i) (i = 1 to n) is used as a threshold value TH1 and is shown by a dashed line in the figure. As shown in this figure, the total heart rate value HB(i) fluctuates above and below the average value. For example, when the total heart rate value HB(i) is higher than the average value, all users in the divided area AR(i) are, on average, in a waking state, and in this case, all users tend to be in at least one of a state of low temperature sensation, a state of high comfort, or a state of high concentration. On the other hand, when the total heart rate value HB(i) is lower than the average value, all users are, on average, in a drowsy state, and in this case, it can be determined that all users are in at least one of a state of high temperature sensation, a state of low comfort, or a state of low concentration.

[0042] The air conditioning operation command unit 324 is a functional block that generates an air conditioning operation command for a divided area determined to require an air conditioning operation in the state determination unit 323. This process is hereinafter referred to as "air conditioning operation command process". In the air conditioning operation command process, the air conditioning operation command unit 324 generates an operation command for adjusting the state quantity of the air flow so as to reduce the temperature sensation of the user and increase the comfort and concentration for each divided area determined to require air conditioning control. Typically, the air conditioning operation command unit 324 generates an air conditioning operation command so that at least one of an operation of lowering the air flow temperature below the set temperature, an operation of increasing the air flow strength above the set air volume, and an operation of directing the air flow direction toward the direction of the target divided area is executed. The air conditioning operation command generated by the air conditioning operation command unit 324 is transmitted to the air conditioning control unit 10 of the air conditioner 1 via a communication line.

[0043] The air conditioning control unit 10 controls the upper and lower louvers 2, the left and right louvers 5, the air conditioning fan motor 7, and the temperature adjustment device 9 based on the air conditioning operation command sent from the air conditioning operation command unit 324.

[0044] According to the air conditioning system 100 as described above, in each of the divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to n), the air conditioning operation is independently controlled based on the average state of all the users present in each divided area. Thereby, even when there are a plurality of users in each divided area, the productivity and comfort of all the users can be generally enhanced on average.

[0045] 5. Specific processes executed in the air conditioning system of the embodiment With reference to the flowchart, the specific process by which the air conditioning system performs air conditioning in the divided area AR(i) will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a routine executed by the processor of the information processing apparatus. The routine shown in FIG. 9 is repeatedly executed at a predetermined cycle for each of the divided areas AR(i) with area identification numbers i = 1 to n.

[0046] In step S120, the biological information data D(i) detected in the biological information detection process is read from the memory 34. In the next step S122, the divided area AR(i) corresponding to the detection range in which the biological information data D(i) is detected is determined by the position determination process.

[0047] In the next steps S124, S126, and S128, the state determination process is executed. Typically, in step S124, the biological information data D(i) as reflected wave data is converted into heartbeat data, and a heartbeat waveform is detected. If no heartbeat waveform is detected in this process, it is determined that there is no user in the divided area AR(i), and this routine ends without performing subsequent processing. The state determination unit 323 detects the peak R of the QRS wave from the detected waveform. In the next step S126, the number of peaks R of the heartbeat waveform detected per unit time is detected as the total heartbeat value HB(i) of all users present in the divided area AR(i). Then, in the next step S128, it is determined whether the total heartbeat value HB(i) is smaller than the threshold value TH1. Here, the threshold value TH1 is the average value of the total heartbeat values HB(i) (i = 1 to n) in each of the divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to n). As a result, if the determination is not established, all users in the divided area AR(i) are, on average, in an awake state, and it is determined that air conditioning control for awakening is unnecessary, and this routine ends.

[0048] On the other hand, if the determination in step S128 is established, it is determined that all users in the divided area AR(i) are, on average, in a drowsy state. In this case, the process proceeds to step S130, and an air conditioning operation command process is executed. Specifically, here, as an operation command for increasing the user's arousal level by changing the state quantity of the air flow generated in the divided area AR(i), at least one of the operations of lowering the air flow temperature below the set temperature, increasing the air volume above the set air volume, and directing the air flow direction toward the divided area AR(i) is generated as an air conditioning operation command. The generated air conditioning operation command is transmitted to the air conditioner 1.

[0049] According to the operation of the air conditioning system as described above, by executing the position determination process, state determination process, and air conditioning operation command process shown in FIG. 8 for each of the biological information data (i = 1 to n), the air conditioning operation can be performed independently for each divided area AR(i). Further, since the necessity of the air conditioning operation in each divided area AR(i) is determined based on the biological information data D(i) in which the biological information of all users existing in the divided area AR(i) is reflected, it is possible to perform air conditioning for improving comfort or productivity based on the average state of all users in the divided area AR(i).

[0050] 6. Modification Example The air conditioning system 100 of the embodiment may adopt the following modified modes.

[0051] 6-1. Information Processing Device 30 FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modification example of the hardware resources of the information processing device. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the information processing device 30 includes a processing circuit 38 including, for example, a processor 32, a memory 34, and dedicated hardware 36. FIG. 10 shows an example in which a part of the functions of the information processing device 30 is realized by the dedicated hardware 36. All of the functions of the information processing device 30 may be realized by the dedicated hardware 36. As the dedicated hardware 36, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof can be adopted.

[0052] There is no limitation on the function arrangement of the information processing device 30. That is, the information processing device 30 may be arranged inside the air conditioner 1 or may be arranged in an external server. When the information processing device 30 is arranged in an external server, the information processing device 30 only needs to be connected to the air conditioner 1 and the biological information detection device 40 by wired communication or wireless communication such as the Internet.

[0053] 6-2. Biological Information Detection Unit 321 The number of divisions n of the space S set in the biological information detection unit 321 and the arrangement of each divided area AR(i) are not limited to the example shown in FIG. 2, and can be appropriately set according to specifications such as the detectable range of the vital sensor 42.

[0054] 6-3. State determination unit 323 The biological information of the divided area AR(i) detected by the state determination unit 323 is not limited to the combined heart rate value HB(i). That is, any biological information index value that can be used as an average index of the warmth / cold feeling, comfort level, or concentration of all users present in the divided area AR(i) may be used, for example, an index value as shown in the following modification example.

[0055] 6-3-1. First modification example: Heart rate interval RRI The heart rate interval RRI(i) of all users present in the divided area AR(i) is correlated with the combined heart rate value HB(i), and the higher the combined heart rate value HB(i) of all users, the lower the heart rate interval RRI(i). Therefore, the biological information index value may use the heart rate interval RRI(i) (i = 1 to n) obtained from the combined heart rate data of all users present in each of the divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to n).

[0056] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a routine executed by the information processing apparatus 30 in the first modification example. The routine shown in FIG. 11 is repeatedly executed at a predetermined cycle for each of the divided areas AR(i) with area identification numbers i = 1 to n.

[0057] In the processes of steps S140, S142, and S144, the same processes as steps S120, S122, and S124 shown in FIG. 9 are executed. In the next step S146, the interval between the peaks detected in step S144 is detected as the heart rate interval RRI(i) of all the users existing in the divided area AR(i). In the next step S148, it is determined whether the heart rate interval RRI(i) is greater than the threshold TH2. Here, as the threshold TH2, the average value of the heart rate intervals RRI(i) (i = 1 to n) in each of the divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to n) is used. As a result, if the determination is not established, it is determined that all the users in the divided area AR(i) are in an average waking state, and air conditioning control for waking is unnecessary, and this routine ends. On the other hand, if the determination in step S148 is established, it is determined that all the users in the divided area AR(i) are in a state of feeling sleepy on average. In this case, the process proceeds to step S150, and the same process as step S130 shown in FIG. 9 is executed.

[0058] As described above, even if the heart rate interval RRI(i) is used as the biometric information index value of all the users existing in the divided area AR(i), based on the average state of all the users in the divided area AR(i), it is possible to perform air conditioning for improving comfort or productivity.

[0059] 6-3-2. Second Modified Example: HF Component The HF component is a frequency component in the range of 0.15 Hz to 0.40 Hz extracted from the power spectral density obtained by performing frequency analysis on the data of the heart rate interval RRI. The HF component is a value used as an index of parasympathetic nerve activity and tends to increase in a state of feeling sleepy. Therefore, the biometric information index value may also be the HF component HF(i) (i = 1 to n) obtained from the total heart rate data of all the users existing in each of the divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to n).

[0060] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a routine executed by the information processing apparatus 30 in the second modification. The routine shown in FIG. 12 is repeatedly executed at a predetermined cycle for each divided area AR(i) with area identification numbers i = 1 to n.

[0061] In the processes of steps S160, S162, S164, and S166, the same processes as steps S140, S142, S144, and S146 shown in FIG. 11 are executed. In the process of step S168, the detected R - R interval RRI(i) is resampled at equal intervals on the time axis. In the process of the next step S170, the power spectral density is calculated by frequency analysis for the data of the R - R interval RRI(i) resampled in the process of step S168. In the process of the next step S172, the frequency component from 0.15 Hz to 0.40 Hz extracted from the power spectral density is taken as the HF component HF(i) of all users existing in the divided area AR(i).

[0062] In the process of the next step S174, it is determined whether HF(i) is greater than the threshold value TH3. Here, the threshold value TH3 uses the average value of HF(i) (i = 1 to n) in each of the divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to n). As a result, if the determination is not established, all users in the divided area AR(i) are on average in a waking state, and it is determined that air - conditioning control for waking is unnecessary, and this routine ends. On the other hand, if the determination in step S174 is established, it is determined that all users in the divided area AR(i) are on average in a drowsy state. In this case, the process proceeds to step S176, and the same process as step S150 shown in FIG. 11 is executed.

[0063] As described above, even when using HF(i) as the biometric information index value of all users existing in the divided area AR(i), based on the average state of the parasympathetic nerves of all users within the divided area AR(i), it is possible to perform air - conditioning for improving comfort or productivity.

[0064] 6-3-3. Third Modification Example: LF / HF The LF component is a frequency component in the range of 0.04 Hz to 0.15 Hz extracted from the power spectral density obtained by performing frequency analysis on the data of the R - R interval of the heartbeat. The LF / HF indicating the ratio of the LF component to the HF component is a value used as an index of sympathetic nerve activity and tends to increase in the waking state. Therefore, the biological information index value may use the ratio LF / HF(i) (i = 1 to n) of the LF component to the HF component obtained from the aggregated heartbeat data of all users existing in each of the divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to n).

[0065] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a routine executed by the information processing apparatus 30 in the second modification example. The routine shown in FIG. 13 is repeatedly executed at a predetermined cycle for each of the divided areas AR(i) with area identification numbers i = 1 to n.

[0066] In the processes of steps S180, S182, S184, S186, S188, and S190, the same processes as steps S160, S162, S164, S166, S168, and S170 shown in FIG. 12 are executed. In the process of step S192, a frequency component from 0.15 Hz to 0.40 Hz is extracted as the HF component from the power spectral density, and a frequency component from 0.04 Hz to 0.15 Hz is extracted as the LF component. Then, the ratio of the LF component to the extracted HF component is set as LF / HF(i) of all users existing in the divided area AR(i).

[0067] In the process of the next step S194, it is determined whether LF / HF(i) is smaller than the threshold TH4. The threshold TH4 here uses the average value of LF / HF(i) (i = 1 to n) in each of the divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to n). As a result, if the establishment of the determination is not recognized, all users in the divided area AR(i) are, on average, in a waking state, and it is determined that air conditioning control for waking is unnecessary, and this routine ends. On the other hand, if the establishment of the determination in step S194 is recognized, it is determined that all users in the divided area AR(i) are, on average, in a state of feeling sleepy. In this case, the process proceeds to step S196, and the same process as step S176 shown in FIG. 12 is executed.

[0068] As described above, even if LF / HF(i) is used as the biometric information index value of all users existing in the divided area AR(i), based on the average sympathetic nerve state of all users within the divided area AR(i), it is possible to perform air conditioning to improve comfort or productivity.

[0069] 6-3-4. Fourth Modification Example: Evaluation Value The biometric information index value may be an evaluation value obtained from the total heart rate data of all users existing in each of the divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to n). The evaluation value here is, for example, a value obtained by numerically quantifying levels such as concentration, temperature sensation, comfort level, etc., as the state of the user that can be judged from the heart rate data in stages. In this case, for example, in the process of step S126 of the routine shown in FIG. 8, the evaluation value E(i) is calculated from the total heart rate value HB(i), and in the process of step S128, the evaluation value E(i) and the threshold TH5 of the evaluation value may be compared. The threshold TH5 here uses the average value of the evaluation values E(i) (i = 1 to n) in each of the divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to n).

[0070] As described above, even when using the evaluation values E(i) such as concentration, warmth / cold feeling, comfort, etc., defined as the biometric information index values of all users present in the divided area AR(i), it is possible to perform air conditioning to improve comfort or productivity based on the average state of all users within the divided area AR(i).

[0071] 6-4. Threshold The threshold TH1 may be configured to set an individual threshold TH1(i) for each divided area AR(i). In this case, the threshold TH1(i) may be the average value of the total number of heartbeats HB(i) over a certain past period in each divided area AR(i) as the threshold TH1(i). This also applies to the thresholds TH2, TH3, TH4, and TH5 shown in other modified examples.

[0072] 6-5. Air Conditioning System 100

[0073] When the operation of the air conditioner 1 is monitored by a management server arranged in a remote location or the like, the air conditioning system 100 may be configured to transmit the air conditioning operation command transmitted from the information processing device 30 to the air conditioning control unit 10 via the communication network from the management server. Note that the communication network may adopt a general communication method such as the Internet or short-range wireless communication.

[0074] There is no limitation on the number of air conditioners 1 included in the air conditioning system 100. That is, the air conditioning system 100 may be configured to adjust the state quantities of the airflows in the divided areas AR(i) by operating a plurality of air conditioners 1 in cooperation. Also, each air conditioner 1 may be configured to be able to adjust at least one of the airflow temperature, airflow direction, and airflow strength for each divided area AR(i).

[0075] There are no limitations on the method of detecting biological information, the number of sensors, and the arrangement of the vital sensor 42 of the biological information detection device 40 provided in the air conditioning system 100. Also, regarding the sensor operation mechanism 44, there are no limitations on its structure as long as it can move the detection range of the vital sensor 42.

[0076] FIG. 14 is a plan view schematically showing an example of a space to which an air conditioning system according to a modified example of the embodiment is applied. In the air conditioning system of the modified example shown in FIG. 14, an air conditioner 1 is arranged on the ceiling of each of the divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to 4) of the space S. Further, the vital sensor 42 of the biological information detection device 40 is installed on the ceiling of the space S separately from the four air conditioners 1. According to such a configuration, in each divided area AR(i) (i = 1 to 4), since an individual air conditioner 1 can be used, it is possible to adjust all of the air flow direction, air flow strength, and air flow temperature as the state quantities of the air flow for each divided area.

[0077] FIG. 15 is a plan view schematically showing an example of a space to which an air conditioning system according to another modified example of the embodiment is applied. In the air conditioning system of the modified example shown in FIG. 15, an air conditioner 1 and a biological information detection device 40 are installed on the ceiling on the side of the divided area AR(i) (i = 1 to 4) of the space S and on the ceiling on the side of the divided area AR(i) (i = 5 to 8), respectively. According to such a configuration, it is possible to adjust the state quantity of the air flow using an individual air conditioner 1 and a biological information detection device 40 on the side of the divided area AR(i) (i = 1 to 4) and on the side of the divided area AR(i) (i = 5 to 8), respectively. Thereby, even for a space S that cannot be covered by a single air conditioner 1 and a biological information detection device 40, air conditioning for each divided area becomes possible.

[0078] FIG. 16 is a plan view schematically showing an example of a space to which an air conditioning system according to another modification of the embodiment is applied. In the air conditioning system of the modification shown in FIG. 16, a single air conditioner 1 and a biological information detection device 40 are installed in a space S, and a plurality of air outlets 4 are arranged in each of divided areas AR(i) (i = 1 to 4). According to such a configuration, it becomes possible to adjust in detail the state quantity of the airflow in each divided area AR(i).

[0079] Hereinafter, various aspects of the present disclosure will be collectively described as appendices.

[0080] (Appendix 1) An air conditioner capable of independently adjusting the state quantity of the airflow generated in each of a plurality of divided areas set in a space, A biological information detection device that performs a biological information detection process of non-contact detecting biological information including at least one of the heartbeat and pulse wave of all users existing in each of the plurality of divided areas, for each of the divided areas, An information processing device that generates an air conditioning operation command for controlling the air conditioner based on the biological information to independently control the state quantity of the airflow generated in each of the plurality of divided areas, An air conditioning system comprising. (Appendix 2) The biological information detection device is, A vital sensor installed in the space for non-contact detecting information of at least one of the heartbeat and pulse wave of all users existing in a detection range extending in a specific direction, A sensor operation mechanism for operating the vital sensor to change the direction of the detection range, and includes, In the biological information detection process, the biological information detection device operates the vital sensor by the sensor operation mechanism to detect the biological information in each of the plurality of divided areas The air conditioning system according to Appendix 1 configured as such. (Appendix 3) The information processing device is, Based on the biological information for each of the divided areas, a biological information index value, which is an index of the state of the living bodies of all users present in each of the plurality of divided areas, is detected for each of the divided areas, and based on a comparison between each of the biological information index values and a threshold value, a state determination process for determining whether generation of the air-conditioning operation command for each of the divided areas is necessary is executed. The air-conditioning system according to appended claim 1 or appended claim 2, configured as described above. (Appended claim 4) The biological information index value is the total heart rate value of all users for each of the divided areas, In the state determination process, when the total heart rate value is smaller than the threshold value, the information processing device determines that generation of the air-conditioning operation command is necessary in the corresponding divided area. The air-conditioning system according to appended claim 3, configured as described above. (Appended claim 5) The biological information index value is the averaged heart rate interval of all users for each of the divided areas, In the state determination process, when the biological information index value is larger than the threshold value, the information processing device determines that generation of the air-conditioning operation command is necessary in the corresponding divided area. The air-conditioning system according to appended claim 3, configured as described above. (Appended claim 6) The biological information index value is the HF component in the range of 0.15 Hz to 0.40 Hz extracted from the power spectral density obtained by frequency analysis based on the averaged heart rate interval of all users for each of the divided areas, In the state determination process, when the biological information index value is larger than the threshold value, the information processing device determines that generation of the air-conditioning operation command is necessary in the corresponding divided area. The air-conditioning system according to appended claim 3, configured as described above. (Appended claim 7) The biological information index value is LF / HF, which is the ratio of the LF component in the range of 0.04 Hz to 0.15 Hz to the HF component from 0.15 Hz to 0.40 Hz, extracted from the power spectral density obtained by frequency analysis based on the combined heart rate intervals of all users for each of the divided areas. In the state determination process, when the biological information index value is smaller than the threshold value, the information processing device determines that it is necessary to generate the air conditioning operation command in the corresponding divided area. The air conditioning system according to Appendix 3 configured as described above. (Appendix 8) The biological information index value is an evaluation value of the sense of warmth and cold, which becomes a higher value as the combined heart rate value of all users for each divided area is lower. In the state determination process, when the evaluation value of the sense of warmth and cold is higher than the threshold value, the information processing device determines that it is necessary to generate the air conditioning operation command in the corresponding divided area. The air conditioning system according to Appendix 3 configured as described above. (Appendix 9) The biological information index value is an evaluation value of comfort, which becomes a lower value as the combined heart rate value of all users for each divided area is lower. In the state determination process, when the evaluation value of comfort is lower than the threshold value, the information processing device determines that it is necessary to generate the air conditioning operation command in the corresponding divided area. The air conditioning system according to Appendix 3 configured as described above. (Appendix 10) The biological information index value is an evaluation value of concentration, which becomes a lower value as the combined heart rate value of all users for each divided area is lower. In the state determination process, when the evaluation value of concentration is lower than the threshold value, the information processing device determines that it is necessary to generate the air conditioning operation command in the corresponding divided area. The air conditioning system according to Appendix 3 configured as described above. (Appendix 11) The threshold value is the average value obtained by averaging each of the biological information index values detected in each of the plurality of divided areas. The air conditioning system according to any one of Appendices 4 to 10. (Appendix 12) The threshold value is an average value obtained by averaging the biometric information index values detected in a certain period in the past for each of the divided areas. The air conditioning system according to any one of Appendices 4 to 10. (Appendix 13) The air conditioner An up-and-down louver that changes the air flow direction in the up-and-down direction, A left-and-right louver that changes the air flow direction in the left-and-right direction, A temperature adjustment device that changes the air flow temperature, An air conditioning fan motor that changes the air flow strength, The air conditioning system according to any one of Appendices 1 to 12, comprising (Appendix 14) The air conditioning operation command is a command for executing any one of lowering the air flow temperature below the set temperature, directing the air flow direction toward the corresponding divided area, and increasing the air flow strength stronger than the set air volume for the corresponding divided area, according to the air conditioning system described in Appendix 13. (Appendix 15) An information processing device that controls an air conditioner according to an air conditioning operation command for independently adjusting the state quantity of the air flow generated in each of a plurality of divided areas set in a space, At least one processor, A memory storing at least one program, and comprising The at least one processor, by executing the at least one program, A biometric information detection process for non-contact detection of biometric information including at least one of the heartbeat and pulse wave of all users present in each of the plurality of divided areas, for each of the divided areas, Based on the biological information for each of the divided areas, a biological information index value, which is an index of the state of the living bodies of all users present in each of the plurality of divided areas, is detected for each of the divided areas, and based on a comparison between each of the biological information index values and a threshold value, a state determination process for determining whether an air conditioning operation command needs to be generated for each of the divided areas is performed, an air conditioning operation command process for generating an air conditioning operation command for a divided area determined to require generation of the air conditioning operation command in the state determination process, An information processing apparatus configured to execute the above.

Explanation of Signs

[0081] 1 Air conditioner, 2 Upper and lower louvers, 3 Suction port, 4 Outlet, 5 Left and right louvers, 6 Housing, 7 Air conditioning fan motor, 8 Decorative panel, 9 Temperature adjustment device, 10 Air conditioning control unit, 30 Information processing apparatus, 32 Processor, 34 Memory, 36 Dedicated hardware, 38 Processing circuit, 40 Biological information detection device, 42 Vital sensor, 44 Sensor operation mechanism, 50 User, 100 Air conditioning system, 101 Table, 321 Biological information detection unit, 322 Position determination unit, 323 State determination unit, 324 Air conditioning operation command unit, 341 Program, 342 Data

Claims

1. An air conditioning apparatus capable of independently adjusting the state quantity of the airflow generated in each of a plurality of divided areas set in a space, a biological information detection device that performs a biological information detection process of non-contact detection of biological information including at least one of the heartbeat and pulse wave of all users existing in each of the plurality of divided areas for each divided area, an information processing device that generates an air conditioning operation command for independently controlling the state quantity of the airflow generated in each of the plurality of divided areas by controlling the air conditioning apparatus based on the biological information, An air conditioning system comprising the above.

2. The biological information detection device, a vital sensor installed in the space for non-contact detection of at least one of the heartbeat and pulse wave of all users existing in a detection range extending in a specific direction, a sensor operation mechanism for operating the vital sensor to change the direction of the detection range, and includes, In the biological information detection process, the biological information detection device operates the vital sensor by the sensor operation mechanism to detect the biological information in each of the plurality of divided areas The air conditioning system according to claim 1, configured as described above.

3. The information processing device, Based on the biological information for each divided area, a biological information index value that is an index of the state of the living body of all users existing in each of the plurality of divided areas is detected for each divided area, and based on the comparison between each biological information index value and a threshold value, A state determination process for determining whether or not to generate the air conditioning operation command for each divided area is executed The air conditioning system according to claim 1, configured as described above.

4. The biological information index value is the total heart rate value of all users for each divided area, In the state determination process, the information processing device determines that it is necessary to generate the air conditioning operation command in the corresponding divided area when the total heart rate value is smaller than the threshold value The air conditioning system according to claim 3, configured as described above.

5. The biological information index value is the heart rate interval of the total heartbeats of all users for each divided area, In the state determination process, the information processing device determines that it is necessary to generate the air conditioning operation command in the corresponding divided area when the biological information index value is larger than the threshold value The air conditioning system according to claim 3, configured as described above.

6. The biological information index value is an HF component in the range of 0.15 Hz to 0.40 Hz extracted from the power spectral density obtained by frequency analysis based on the combined heart rate intervals of all users for each of the divided areas. In the state determination process, when the biological information index value is greater than the threshold value, the information processing device determines that it is necessary to generate the air conditioning operation command in the corresponding divided area. The air conditioning system according to claim 3, configured as described above.

7. The biological information index value is LF / HF, which is the ratio of the LF component in the range of 0.04 Hz to 0.15 Hz to the HF component in the range of 0.15 Hz to 0.40 Hz extracted from the power spectral density obtained by frequency analysis based on the combined heart rate intervals of all users for each of the divided areas. In the state determination process, when the biological information index value is less than the threshold value, the information processing device determines that it is necessary to generate the air conditioning operation command in the corresponding divided area. The air conditioning system according to claim 3, configured as described above.

8. The biological information index value is an evaluation value of the thermal sensation, where the lower the combined heart rate value of all users for each of the divided areas, the higher the value. In the state determination process, when the evaluation value of the thermal sensation is higher than the threshold value, the information processing device determines that it is necessary to generate the air conditioning operation command in the corresponding divided area. The air conditioning system according to claim 3, configured as described above.

9. The biological information index value is an evaluation value of comfort, where the lower the combined heart rate value of all users for each of the divided areas, the lower the value. In the state determination process, when the evaluation value of comfort is lower than the threshold value, the information processing device determines that it is necessary to generate the air conditioning operation command in the corresponding divided area. The air conditioning system according to claim 3, configured as described above.

10. The biological information index value is an evaluation value of concentration, where the lower the combined heart rate value of all users for each of the divided areas, the lower the value. In the state determination process, when the evaluation value of concentration is lower than the threshold value, the information processing device determines that it is necessary to generate the air conditioning operation command in the corresponding divided area. The air conditioning system according to claim 3, configured as described above.

11. The threshold value is the average value obtained by averaging each of the biological information index values detected in each of the plurality of divided areas. The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 4 to 10.

12. The threshold value is the average value obtained by averaging the biological information index values detected over a certain period in the past for each of the divided areas. The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 4 to 10.

13. The air conditioner includes: an up-down louver that changes the air flow direction in the vertical direction; a left-right louver that changes the air flow direction in the horizontal direction; a temperature adjustment device that changes the air flow temperature; an air conditioning fan motor that changes the air flow strength; The air conditioning system according to claim 1 or claim 2, comprising:

14. The air conditioning operation command is a command for executing any one of lowering the air flow temperature below the set temperature, directing the air flow direction toward the corresponding divided area, and increasing the air flow strength above the set air volume for the corresponding divided area. The air conditioning system according to claim 13.

15. An information processing device that controls an air conditioner according to an air conditioning operation command for independently adjusting the state quantity of the air flow generated in each of a plurality of divided areas set in a space, at least one processor; a memory storing at least one program, and comprising: The at least one processor, by executing the at least one program, performs a biological information detection process for non-contact detection of biological information including at least one of the heartbeat and pulse wave information of all users present in each of the plurality of divided areas for each of the divided areas; Based on the biological information for each of the divided areas, a biological information index value that is an index of the state of the living body of all users present in each of the plurality of divided areas is detected for each of the divided areas, and based on a comparison between each of the biological information index values and a threshold value, a state determination process for determining whether it is necessary to generate the air conditioning operation command for each of the divided areas is performed; An air conditioning operation command process for generating the air conditioning operation command for the divided area determined to require generation of the air conditioning operation command in the state determination process; An information processing device configured to execute.

Images