Ventilation device and ventilation system

Abstract

To provide a ventilation device and a ventilation system capable of easily managing a flow of air according to the situation of a space.SOLUTION: A ventilation device comprises: an air duct body that penetrates a wall separating a first space from a second space in a target space to form an air channel connecting the first space and the second space; a fan that generates an airflow from the first space to the second space inside the air duct body; a shutter that changes an opening degree of the air channel by moving between a position that does not block the air channel and a position that blocks the air channel; a first environmental sensor that is provided inside the first space, and measures environmental physical quantities of the first space; a second environmental sensor that is provided inside the second space, and measures environmental physical quantities of the second space; and a controller that changes the opening degree of the shutter based on at least one of the environmental physical quantities detected by the first environmental sensor and the environmental physical quantities detected by the second environmental sensor.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a ventilation device and a ventilation system.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a ventilation system. According to the ventilation system, an air path fan, which is a ventilation device, is provided on a wall that partitions a room from another room. By the air path fan, it is possible to locally create an air flow from one room to another room.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the air path fan described in Patent Document 1 is manually switched between operating states. For this reason, control according to the situation of the space where ventilation is performed may not be carried out.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above problems. An object of the present disclosure is to provide a ventilation device and a ventilation system capable of easily managing the air flow according to the situation of the space.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The ventilation device according to the present disclosure includes a duct body that penetrates a wall separating a first space and a second space in a target space and forms an air passage connecting the first space and the second space, a fan that generates an air flow from the first space to the second space inside the duct body, a shutter that changes the opening degree of the air passage by moving between a position that does not block the air passage and a position that blocks the air passage, a first environmental sensor provided inside the first space and measuring an environmental physical quantity of the first space, a second environmental sensor provided inside the second space and measuring an environmental physical quantity of the second space, and a controller that changes the opening degree of the shutter based on at least one of the environmental physical quantity detected by the first environmental sensor and the environmental physical quantity detected by the second environmental sensor.

[0007] The ventilation system according to the present disclosure includes a ventilation device that penetrates a wall separating a first space and a second space in a target space and forms an air passage connecting the first space and the second space, a first environmental sensor provided inside the first space and measuring an environmental physical quantity of the first space, and a second environmental sensor provided inside the second space and measuring an environmental physical quantity of the second space. The ventilation device includes a duct body that forms the air passage connecting the first space and the second space, a fan that generates an air flow from the first space to the second space inside the duct body, a shutter that changes the opening degree of the air passage by moving between a position that does not block the air passage and a position that blocks the air passage, and a controller that changes the opening degree of the shutter based on at least one of the environmental physical quantity detected by the first environmental sensor and the environmental physical quantity detected by the second environmental sensor.

Advantages of the Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, the opening degree of the shutter of the ventilation device is changed based on at least one of the environmental physical quantity of the first space and the environmental physical quantity of the second space. Therefore, it is possible to easily manage the air flow according to the situation of the space.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

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[0010] The embodiments for carrying out the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. The duplicated description of the parts will be appropriately simplified or omitted.

[0011] Embodiment 1 FIG. 1 is a floor plan of a house to which the ventilation system according to the first embodiment is applied.

[0012] The ventilation system 50 in FIG. 1 is applied to, for example, the interior spaces of residences such as condominiums or single-family houses, offices, and factories. In this embodiment, the ventilation system 50 is applied to a residence R0 which is a standard condominium-type single room.

[0013] As an example, the residence R0 has a floor plan of 3LDK. That is, in the residence R0, there is a living-dining-kitchen R1 (hereinafter also referred to as "living room R1") facing the balcony B, a corridor R2, a dressing room R3, a bathroom R4, a toilet R5, and rooms R6, R7, and R8. The corridor R2 connects the living room R1 and the entrance E. The living room R1 and the corridor R2 are separated by a wall W and a door D. A person can move to the bathroom R4 through the dressing room R3 adjacent to the corridor R2.

[0014] The interior of the residence R0 is regarded as a target space A0 and is subject to the management of the ventilation system 50. For example, the target space A0 is an indoor space surrounded by walls. The inflow and outflow of gas between the outside and the inside in the target space A0 are carried out by the external door of the entrance E, the window leading to the balcony B, the ventilation openings, and other specific ventilation devices.

[0015] The target space A0 is at least divided into a first space A1 and a second space A2. The first space A1 and the second space A2 are separated by a wall or the like. In this embodiment, the first space A1 is a living room, and the second space A2 is a non-living room. Specifically, the first space A1 is the living room R1. The second space A2 is a space including the corridor R2, the dressing room R3, and the bathroom R4.

[0016] The air conditioner 60 is provided in the living room R1. The air conditioner 60 adjusts the temperature and humidity of the living room R1 by generating and blowing out conditioned air with changed temperature and humidity.

[0017] The ventilation system 50 includes a ventilation device 1, a first environmental sensor 2, a second environmental sensor 3, a ventilation port body 4, a first ventilation device 5, a second ventilation device 6, and a cooperation device 7. Note that the ventilation system 50 may include an air conditioner 60.

[0018] The ventilation device 1 is provided on the wall W. The ventilation device 1 can form an air passage between the first space A1 and the second space A2.

[0019] The first environmental sensor 2 is a sensor that detects at least one environmental physical quantity. The environmental physical quantities include temperature, humidity, air pollution degree (an index value of air pollution degree), noise value indicating the loudness of sound, etc. The first environmental sensor 2 is one sensor that measures at least one of these environmental physical quantities or a combination of a plurality of sensors. That is, the first environmental sensor 2 includes at least one of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an air pollution degree sensor, and a noise sensor. In particular, the air pollution degree sensor includes at least one of an odor sensor, a CO2 sensor, and a particle concentration sensor.

[0020] The air pollution degree means at least one of the intensity of odor in the air, the CO2 concentration, and the particle concentration. The particle concentration is the concentration of target substances such as oil, dust, viruses, pollen, etc. in the air that an air purifier removes. The intensity of odor may be the concentration of odor substances in the air or a value obtained by multiplying the concentration of odor substances by a coefficient indicating the intensity of the odor. For example, the noise value may adopt a decibel value which is the noise level.

[0021] The first environmental sensor 2 is located inside the first space A1. In Embodiment 1, the first environmental sensor 2 is provided in a portion of the housing constituting the ventilation device 1 that exists in the first space A1.

[0022] The second environmental sensor 3 is a sensor that detects the same environmental physical quantities as the first environmental sensor 2. The second environmental sensor 3 is located inside the second space A2. In Embodiment 1, the second environmental sensor 3 is provided in a portion of the housing constituting the ventilation device 1 that exists in the second space A2.

[0023] The ventilation port body 4 penetrates the wall adjacent to the balcony B of the living room R1. The ventilation port body 4 forms an air passage connecting the air outside the target space A0 and the first space A1 inside. For example, the ventilation port body 4 can be manually opened and closed.

[0024] The first ventilation device 5 is provided in the bathroom R4 as a bathroom ventilation device. The first ventilation device 5 is provided in the second space A2 and discharges the air in the second space A2 to the outside of the target space A0. For example, the first ventilation device 5 operates 24 hours a day as an exhaust device for the dwelling R0.

[0025] The second ventilation device 6 is a range hood provided in the kitchen of the living-dining-kitchen R1 as a ventilation device. The second ventilation device 6 is provided in the first space A1 and discharges the air in the first space A1 to the outside of the target space A0.

[0026] The cooperation device 7 is provided in the dwelling R0 and can communicate with the ventilation device 1, the first ventilation device 5, and the second ventilation device 6. Note that the cooperation device 7 may be able to communicate separately with the first environmental sensor 2 and the second environmental sensor 3. The cooperation device 7 can transmit commands regarding operations to the ventilation device 1, the first ventilation device 5, and the second ventilation device 6.

[0027] Next, the ventilation device 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4. FIG. 2 is a side view of the ventilation device in Embodiment 1. FIG. 3 is a front view of the wall on which the ventilation device in Embodiment 1 is provided. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the wall on which the ventilation device in Embodiment 1 is provided and the nearby door.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 2, the ventilation device 1 is an air path fan. The ventilation device 1 includes an air duct body 11, a first housing 12, a second housing 13, a fan 14, a shutter 15, and a controller 16. For example, the air duct body 11 is a pipe and has a tubular shape with two openings.

[0029] The first housing 12 is provided at one of the two openings of the air duct body 11. The first housing 12 forms around the opening of the air duct body 11.

[0030] The second housing 13 is provided at the other of the two openings of the air duct body 11. The second housing 13 forms around the opening of the air duct body 11 on the side opposite to the first housing 12.

[0031] For example, the fan 14 is an axial flow fan. The fan 14 is provided inside the outer shell of the ventilation device 1, particularly inside the first housing 12. The fan 14 rotates in the direction in which the air flow flows from the first housing 12 to the second housing 13. Note that the fan 14 may be provided inside the air duct body 11 or inside the second housing 13. Also, the fan 14 may be further rotatable in the direction in which the air flow flows from the first housing 12 to the second housing 13.

[0032] The shutter 15 is provided on the first housing 12 and can close the opening of the first housing 12. That is, when the shutter 15 is closed, the air is prevented from flowing through the air passage formed by the ventilation device 1. Specifically, the shutter 15 includes a closing body 15a and a drive unit 15b.

[0033] The closing body 15a is capable of moving stepwise between a position where it does not block the air passage and a position where it blocks the air passage. As an example, the closing body 15a has a rectangular plate shape. The closing body 15a is attached to the first housing 12 on one side. The closing body 15a is rotatable about the attached side. By rotating about the attached side, the closing body 15a can move between a position where it does not block the air passage and a position where it blocks the air passage. FIG. 2 shows the case where the closing body 15a is in a position where it does not block the air passage. When the closing body 15a is in a position where it blocks the air passage, each side of the closing body 15a is in contact with the first housing 12.

[0034] The drive mechanism 15b moves the position of the closing body 15a step by step. As an example, the drive mechanism 15b is provided in the first housing 12 near the side where the closing body 15a is attached. The drive mechanism 15b can rotate the closing body 15a step by step so that the angle changes between a position where the air passage is not blocked and a position where the air passage is blocked.

[0035] By the drive mechanism 15b moving the position of the closing body 15a step by step, the opening degree of the shutter 15 changes. The opening degree of the shutter 15 is the degree to which the air passage is open and affects the ease of air flow in the air duct body 11. The larger the opening degree of the shutter 15, the easier it is for air to flow through the air duct body 11. When the shutter 15 is completely closed, that is, when the closing body 15a is in the position where it blocks the air passage, no air flows through the air duct body 11. The smaller the opening degree of the shutter 15, the smaller the opening area of the air passage, and the greater the pressure loss of the air flow passing through the ventilation device 1. As a result, for the same air pressure difference, the smaller the opening degree of the shutter 15, the less the amount of air moving through the air duct body 11 per unit time.

[0036] In the present embodiment, the first environmental sensor 2 is provided inside the first housing 12. The second environmental sensor 3 is provided inside the second housing 13.

[0037] The controller 16 can communicate with the first environmental sensor 2, the second environmental sensor 3, and the cooperation device 7 not shown in FIG. 2. The controller 16 controls the operation of the drive mechanism 15b based on the detection results of the first environmental sensor 2 and the second environmental sensor 3, thereby controlling the opening degree of the shutter 15. Also, when controlling the opening degree of the shutter 15, the controller 16 rotates or stops the fan 14.

[0038] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 which are examples, the ventilation device 1 is provided on the wall W above the door D. Among the ventilation device 1, the air duct body 11 penetrates the wall W. One opening of the air duct body 11 is connected to the living room R1 which is the first space A1. The other opening of the air duct body 11 is connected to the corridor R2 which is the second space A2.

[0039] The first housing 12 is located on the side of the first space A1 with respect to the wall W. The first environmental sensor 2 is located on the side of the first space A1 with respect to the wall W. Therefore, the first environmental sensor 2 detects the environmental physical quantity of the first space A1.

[0040] The second housing 13 is located on the side of the second space A2 with respect to the wall W. The second environmental sensor 3 is located on the side of the second space A2 with respect to the wall W. Therefore, the second environmental sensor 3 detects the environmental physical quantity of the second space A2.

[0041] The shutter 15 controls the opening degree of the air duct body 11 in the first space A1. When the fan 14 rotates, it generates an air flow from the first space A1 to the second space A2.

[0042] Next, the controller 16 and the cooperation device 7 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of the ventilation system in the first embodiment.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 5, the controller 16 has a detection unit 16a, a determination unit 16b, and an operation control unit 16c as functions. The detection unit 16a acquires the detection results of the first environmental sensor 2 and the detection results of the second environmental sensor 3.

[0044] The determination unit 16b compares the detected value of the first environmental sensor 2 and the detected value of the second environmental sensor 3 for a certain environmental physical quantity, and makes various determinations. The contents of comparison may be different depending on the environmental physical quantity to be handled.

[0045] For example, in an example where the temperature is compared as the environmental physical quantity, the determination unit 16b determines whether the first temperature of the first space A1 detected by the first environmental sensor 2 is equal to or higher than the second temperature of the second space A2 detected by the second environmental sensor 3.

[0046] In the first example of comparing the air pollution level as an environmental physical quantity, the determination unit 16b determines whether the first air pollution level of the first space A1 detected by the first environmental sensor 2 is greater than a specified first pollution threshold value. The first pollution threshold value is set in advance.

[0047] In the second example of comparing the air pollution level as an environmental physical quantity, the determination unit 16b calculates the difference in air pollution level obtained by subtracting the second air pollution level of the second space A2 detected by the second environmental sensor 3 from the first air pollution level of the first space A1 detected by the first environmental sensor 2. The determination unit 16b determines whether the difference in air pollution level is greater than a specified second pollution threshold value. The second pollution threshold value is set in advance.

[0048] In the first example of comparing the noise level as an environmental physical quantity, the determination unit 16b determines whether the second noise level of the second space A2 detected by the second environmental sensor 3 is greater than a specified first noise threshold value. The first noise threshold value is set in advance.

[0049] In the second example of comparing the noise level as an environmental physical quantity, the determination unit 16b calculates the difference in noise level obtained by subtracting the first noise level of the first space A1 detected by the first environmental sensor 2 from the second noise level of the second space A2 detected by the second environmental sensor 3. The determination unit 16b determines whether the difference in noise level is greater than a specified second noise threshold value. The second noise threshold value is set in advance.

[0050] The operation control unit 16c turns the fan 14 on or off. The operation control unit 16c controls the opening degree of the shutter 15. At this time, the operation control unit 16c performs operations based on the determination result of the determination unit 16b.

[0051] In summer, when the first temperature of the first space A1 is lower than the second temperature of the second space A2, the operation control unit 16c fully opens the shutter 15 and operates the fan 14. In winter, when the first temperature of the first space A1 is higher than the second temperature of the second space A2, the operation control unit 16c fully opens the shutter 15 and operates the fan 14.

[0052] For example, periods including summer and winter within a year are preset. The operation control unit 16c can detect whether it is summer or winter from the current date. Note that the operation control unit 16c may also detect whether it is summer or winter based on the control content of the air conditioner 60. In this case, when the air conditioner 60 is in the cooling operation, the operation control unit 16c detects that it is summer. When the air conditioner 60 is in the heating operation, the operation control unit 16c detects that it is winter.

[0053] When the opening degree of the shutter 15 is open and the fan 14 is operating, the operation control unit 16c further controls the opening degree of the shutter 15 and the operation of the fan 14 by using at least one of the air pollution degree or the noise value.

[0054] In a first example of comparing the air pollution degree as an environmental physical quantity, when the shutter 15 is open and the fan 14 is operating, if the determination unit 16b performs the comparison of the first example and determines that the first air pollution degree is greater than the first pollution threshold value, the operation control unit 16c stops the fan 14 and closes the opening degree of the shutter 15 to fully closed, that is, closes the shutter 15.

[0055] In a second example of comparing the air pollution degree as an environmental physical quantity, when the shutter 15 is open and the fan 14 is operating, if the determination unit 16b performs the comparison of the second example and determines that the difference in the air pollution degree obtained by subtracting the second air pollution degree from the first air pollution degree is greater than the second pollution threshold value, the operation control unit 16c stops the fan 14 and closes the opening degree of the shutter 15 to fully closed, that is, closes the shutter 15.

[0056] In the third example of comparing the air pollution level as an environmental physical quantity, when the shutter 15 is open and the fan 14 is operating, the operation control unit 16c changes the opening degree of the shutter 15 according to the magnitude of the first air pollution level. Specifically, the operation control unit 16c reduces the opening degree of the shutter 15 as the value of the first air pollution level increases. For example, the operation control unit 16c sets the opening degree when the first air pollution level is equal to the first pollution threshold to 0, and controls the opening degree of the shutter 15 so that the opening degree of the shutter 15 has a negative correlation with the magnitude of the first air pollution level.

[0057] In the first example of comparing the noise value as an environmental physical quantity, when the opening degree of the shutter 15 is fully open and the fan 14 is operating, if the determination unit 16b makes a comparison in the first example and determines that the second noise value is greater than the second noise threshold, the operation control unit 16c stops the fan 14 and fully closes the opening degree of the shutter 15, that is, closes the shutter 15.

[0058] In the second example of comparing the noise value as an environmental physical quantity, when the shutter 15 is open and the fan 14 is operating, if the determination unit 16b makes a comparison in the second example and determines that the difference in the noise value obtained by subtracting the first noise from the second noise value is greater than the second noise threshold, the operation control unit 16c stops the fan 14 and fully closes the opening degree of the shutter 15, that is, closes the shutter 15.

[0059] In the third example of comparing the air pollution level as an environmental physical quantity, when the shutter 15 is open and the fan 14 is operating, the operation control unit 16c changes the opening degree of the shutter 15 according to the magnitude of the second noise value. Specifically, the operation control unit 16c reduces the opening degree of the shutter 15 as the second noise value increases. For example, the operation control unit 16c sets the opening degree when the second noise value is equal to the first noise threshold to 0, and controls the opening degree of the shutter 15 so that the opening degree of the shutter 15 has a negative correlation with the magnitude of the second noise value.

[0060] When the shutter 15 is open and the fan 14 is operating, the cooperation device 7 operates the second ventilation device 6 when the determination unit 16b of the controller 16 determines that the first air pollution level in the first space A1 is greater than the first pollution threshold value, or when the difference in air pollution levels between the first space A1 and the second space A2 is determined to be greater than the second pollution threshold value.

[0061] Next, an example of the operation performed by the ventilation system 50 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. FIGS. 6 and 7 are conceptual diagrams of the main parts of a dwelling to which the ventilation system in Embodiment 1 is applied.

[0062] FIG. 6 conceptually shows a cross-section of each space along the arrow X in FIG. 1 as the air flow. The air conditioner 60 adjusts the temperature of the living room R1. The first ventilation device 5 discharges the air in the target space A0 to the outside, which is outdoors. The operation of the second ventilation device 6 is stopped.

[0063] Due to the exhaust of the first ventilation device 5, outside air flows into the living room R1 from the vent body 4. The ventilation device 1 sends an air flow from the first space A1 to the second space A2 so that the temperature difference between the living room R1 and the corridor R2 becomes smaller. The air flow that has flowed into the corridor R2 in the second space A2 flows into the dressing room R3 through the undercut and gaps of the door of the dressing room R3. The air that has flowed in flows into the bathroom R4 through the gallery, which is a gap at the lower part of the door of the bathroom R4. Thereafter, the air is discharged outdoors by the first ventilation device 5. For example, in winter, the warm air in the living room R1 is sent to the corridor R2 by the ventilation device 1. The temperature of the corridor R2 rises.

[0064] In such a state, assume that a strong odor is generated in the living room R1. In this case, the first environmental sensor 2 detects the odor. Based on the detection result of the first environmental sensor 2, the ventilation device 1 determines that the odor value, which is the air pollution level, is greater than the first pollution threshold value regarding the odor. As shown in FIG. 7, the ventilation device 1 closes the shutter 15 and stops the fan 14. The cooperation device 7 starts the operation of the second ventilation device 6.

[0065] In this way, by the cooperation of each device in the ventilation system 50, the odor generated in the living room R1 is suppressed from leaking into the corridor R2. Further, the odor generated in the living room R1 is discharged to the outside by the second ventilation device 6.

[0066] Although not shown, assume that noise is generated in the corridor R2 when the shutter 15 is open and the fan 14 is operating. For example, the noise includes the operating sound of a vacuum cleaner, the operating sound of a washing machine, the sound of washing face water, the sound of toilet water, etc. generated in the second space A2. In this case, the second environmental sensor 3 detects the noise as a noise sensor. The ventilation device 1 determines, based on the detection result of the second environmental sensor 3, that the second noise value of the second space A2 is greater than the first noise threshold. The shutter 15 is closed and the fan 14 is stopped. Therefore, the noise generated in the corridor R2 is suppressed from directly reaching the living room R1 through the air passage of the ventilation device 1.

[0067] Next, with reference to FIG. 8, the operation of the ventilation system 50 in the first example where the environmental physical quantity is odor will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the ventilation system in Embodiment 1.

[0068] The flowchart of FIG. 8 starts, for example, when the air conditioner 60 starts operating in winter. Note that the flowchart of FIG. 8 may also start when the power of the ventilation device 1 is turned on.

[0069] In step S01, the controller 16 of the ventilation device 1 determines whether or not a first temperature, which is the temperature of the first space A1 detected by the first environmental sensor 2, is greater than or equal to a second temperature, which is the temperature of the second space A2 detected by the second environmental sensor 3.

[0070] When the first temperature is lower than the second temperature in step S01, the operation of step S02 is performed. In step S02, the ventilation device 1 is in a stopped state, the shutter 15 is fully closed, and the fan 14 is stopped. If the ventilation device 1 is already in a stopped state, the stopped state is continued. Then, the operations after step S01 are repeated.

[0071] In step S01, when the first temperature is equal to or higher than the second temperature, the operation of step S03 is performed. In step S03, the ventilation device 1 starts operating. That is, the ventilation device 1 opens the shutter 15 and rotates the fan 14. If the ventilation device 1 is already operating, the operating state is continued.

[0072] Then, in step S04, the controller 16 determines whether the first air pollution level, which is the odor in the first space A1 detected by the first environmental sensor 2, is greater than the first pollution threshold value regarding the odor.

[0073] In step S04, when the first air pollution level is equal to or lower than the first pollution threshold value, the operations after step S01 are repeated.

[0074] In step S04, when the first air pollution level is greater than the first pollution threshold value, the operation of step S05 is performed. In step S05, the ventilation device 1 becomes a stopped state.

[0075] Then, in step S06, the cooperation device 7 starts the operation of the second ventilation device 6. If the second ventilation device 6 is already operating, the cooperation device 7 continues the operation.

[0076] Then, the operations after step S04 are repeated.

[0077] Next, with reference to FIG. 9, the operation of the ventilation system 50 in the first example when the environmental physical quantity is noise will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the ventilation system in the first embodiment.

[0078] The flowchart of FIG. 9 starts, for example, when the air conditioner 60 starts operating in winter. Note that the flowchart of FIG. 9 may also start when the power supply of the ventilation device 1 is turned on.

[0079] In step S11, the controller 16 of the ventilation device 1 determines whether the first temperature, which is the temperature of the first space A1 detected by the first environment sensor 2, is greater than or equal to the second temperature, which is the temperature of the second space A2 detected by the second environment sensor 3.

[0080] If the first temperature is lower than the second temperature in step S11, the operation of step S12 is performed. In step S12, the ventilation device 1 is in a stopped state, with the shutter 15 fully closed and the fan 14 stopped. If the ventilation device 1 is already in a stopped state, the stopped state is continued. Then, the operations after step S11 are repeated.

[0081] If the first temperature is greater than or equal to the second temperature in step S11, the operation of step S13 is performed. In step S13, the ventilation device 1 starts operating. That is, the ventilation device 1 opens the shutter 15 and rotates the fan 14. If the ventilation device 1 is already operating, the operating state is continued.

[0082] Thereafter, in step S14, the controller 16 determines whether the second noise value of the second space A2 detected by the second environment sensor 3 is greater than the first noise threshold value related to noise.

[0083] If the second noise value is less than or equal to the first noise threshold value in step S14, the operations after step S11 are repeated.

[0084] If the second noise value is greater than the second noise threshold value in step S14, the operation of step S15 is performed. In step S15, the ventilation device 1 stops.

[0085] Then, the operations after step S14 are repeated.

[0086] According to the first embodiment described above, the ventilation system 50 includes a ventilation device 1, a first environmental sensor 2, and a second environmental sensor 3. The ventilation device 1 includes an air duct body 11, a fan 14, a shutter 15, and a controller 16. The ventilation device 1 reduces the temperature difference between the first space A1 and the second space A2 by generating an air flow from the first space A1 to the second space A2. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the discomfort caused by heat or cold, that is, the temperature change, felt when a person moves from the first space A1 to the second space A2. Further, the opening degree of the shutter 15 is controlled based on at least one of the environmental physical quantities detected by the first environmental sensor 2 and the environmental physical quantities detected by the second environmental sensor 3. For this reason, it is possible to easily manage the air flow according to the situation of the space. In particular, the first space A1 is a living room, and the second space A2 is a non-living room. Therefore, the ventilation device 1 can manage both the living room and the non-living room spaces to be comfortable.

[0087] In addition, the first environmental sensor 2 and the second environmental sensor 3 at least detect the air pollution degree as an environmental physical quantity. When the first air pollution degree of the first space A1 is greater than the first pollution threshold value, the ventilation device 1 closes the shutter 15 and stops the fan 14. In the prior art, there was a risk that polluted air would leak out from the gaps generated in the wall by the air path fan. In this embodiment, the movement of the polluted air in the first space A1 to the second space A2 is suppressed. As a result, the second space A2 is managed to be a comfortable space for people.

[0088] In addition, when the difference in air pollution degree obtained by subtracting the second air pollution degree from the first air pollution degree is greater than the second pollution threshold value, the ventilation device 1 closes the shutter 15 and stops the fan 14. Also in this case, the movement of the more polluted air in the first space A1 to the second space A2 is suppressed. As a result, the second space A2 is managed to be a comfortable space for people. Further, if the second air pollution degree is approximately the same as the first air pollution degree, the shutter 15 is not closed and the fan 14 does not stop. Therefore, it is possible to manage the air reflecting the current situation.

[0089] Further, the ventilation device 1 decreases the opening degree of the shutter 15 as the first air pollution degree increases. That is, as the first air pollution degree increases, the amount of air flowing from the first space A1 to the second space A2 decreases. For this reason, the ventilation device 1 can suppress an increase in the air pollution degree of the second space A2 while creating an air flow such that the temperatures of the first space A1 and the second space A2 become constant.

[0090] Further, the environmental pollution degree includes an odor value. The ventilation device 1 changes the opening degree of the shutter 15 based on the odor value. For this reason, it is possible to suppress the odor generated in the first space A1 from leaking into the second space A2. As a result, it is possible to reduce the discomfort felt by a person due to the diffusion of the odor into another space partitioned by a wall.

[0091] Further, the first environmental sensor 2 and the second environmental sensor 3 detect at least a noise value as an environmental physical quantity. When the second noise value of the second space A2 is greater than the first noise threshold value, the ventilation device 1 closes the shutter 15 and stops the fan 14. In the prior art, there was a risk that noise would leak out from the gaps generated in the wall by the air path fan. In the present embodiment, the noise generated in the second space A2 is suppressed from being transmitted to the first space A1. As a result, the first space A1 is managed to be a comfortable space for a person. For example, it is possible to reduce the inaudibility of a person's voice, the sound of a media device, etc. in the first space A1 caused by noise.

[0092] Note that when the shutter 15 is open and the fan 14 is rotating, the controller 16 of the ventilation device 1 may close the shutter 15 and stop the fan 14 when the first noise value of the first space A1 is greater than a specified third noise threshold value. For example, in the first space A1, the sound of a TV, the sound of conversation, etc. may be generated as noise. In this case, the noise generated in the first space A1 is suppressed from being transmitted to the second space A2.

[0093] Also, when the difference in noise values obtained by subtracting the first noise value from the second noise value is greater than the second noise threshold, the ventilation device 1 closes the shutter 15 and stops the fan 14. Even in this case, the noise generated in the second space A2 is suppressed from moving to the quieter first space A1. As a result, the first space A1 is managed to be a comfortable space for people. Also, if the first noise value is approximately the same as the second noise value, the shutter 15 is not closed and the fan 14 does not stop. Therefore, it is possible to manage the air reflecting the current situation.

[0094] Also, the ventilation device 1 reduces the opening degree of the shutter 15 as the second noise value increases. That is, as the second noise value increases, it becomes more difficult for noise to be transmitted from the second space A2 to the first space A1. For this reason, the ventilation device 1 can suppress the transmission of noise to the first space A1 while creating an air flow such that the temperatures of the first space A1 and the second space A2 become constant.

[0095] Also, the first environmental sensor 2 and the second environmental sensor 3 are provided so as to be integrated with the main body of the ventilation device 1. That is, the first environmental sensor 2 and the second environmental sensor 3 are respectively attached to the first housing 12 and the second housing 13. For this reason, it is possible to manufacture the ventilation device 1 that does not take up space.

[0096] Also, when the first air pollution level in the first space A1 is greater than the first pollution threshold, the ventilation device 1 closes the shutter 15 and stops the fan 14. Then, the second ventilation device 6 which is a ventilation device starts to operate so as to discharge the air in the first space A1 to the outside of the target space. For this reason, the polluted air in the first space A1 can be quickly excluded from the target space without leaking into the second space A2.

[0097] Note that the ventilation device 1 does not have to be provided at the position shown in the first embodiment as long as it is provided so as to penetrate a wall separating one space from another space. For example, the first space A1 may be a room R6, R7, or R8 that is a living room. In this case, the ventilation device 1 is provided on a wall separating the corridor R2 from the room R6, a wall separating the corridor R2 from the room R7, or a wall separating the corridor R2 from the room R8.

[0098] Note that a human presence sensor may be provided in the second space A2. For example, a human presence sensor is provided in the corridor R2. The ventilation device 1 may perform control to change the opening degree of the shutter 15 according to the detected value of the environmental physical quantity as shown in this embodiment only when the shutter 15 is open, the fan 14 is operating, and there is a reaction from the human presence sensor.

[0099] Note that when the ventilation method is such that an air flow is generated inside the target space by the ventilation port body 4 and the first ventilation device 5, the ventilation device 1 does not have to be provided with the fan 14.

[0100] Second Embodiment. FIG. 10 is a floor plan of a house to which the ventilation system in the second embodiment is applied. FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram of a main part of a house to which the ventilation system in the second embodiment is applied. Note that the same reference numerals are given to the same or corresponding parts as those in the first embodiment, and the description of those parts is omitted.

[0101] In the second embodiment, the first environmental sensor 2 and the second environmental sensor 3 are provided in housings that do not contact the duct body 11 respectively. That is, the first environmental sensor 2 and the second environmental sensor 3 are separate from the duct body 11, the first housing 12, and the second housing 13.

[0102] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the ventilation system 50 includes a communication device 61, a first separate housing 30, and a second separate housing 31. The communication device 61 can communicate with each device included in the ventilation system 50, either by wire or wirelessly. The communication device 61 can communicate with an external network. For example, the communication device 61 is an Internet router installed in the living room R1 or the like. For example, each device included in the ventilation system 50 forms an internal network via the communication device 61.

[0103] The first separate housing 30 is installed at a position away from the ventilation device 1 as a separate body that does not contact the duct body 11 inside the first space A1. The first separate housing 30 is provided with a first environmental sensor 2. The second separate housing 31 is installed at a position away from the ventilation device 1 as a separate body that does not contact the duct body 11 inside the second space A2. The second separate housing 31 is provided with a second environmental sensor 3. For example, the second separate housing 31 is provided in the dressing room R3.

[0104] Note that a plurality of first separate housings 30 and a plurality of second separate housings 31 may be provided in the dwelling R0. A plurality of sensors included in the first environmental sensor 2 may be respectively provided in the plurality of first separate housings 30. A plurality of sensors included in the second environmental sensor 3 may be respectively provided in the plurality of second separate housings 31. That is, a temperature sensor, a noise sensor, an odor sensor, a particle concentration sensor, etc. may constitute the ventilation system 50 as the first environmental sensor 2 or the second environmental sensor 3, respectively.

[0105] In Embodiment 2, each function of the controller 16 may be realized by a server provided at a location away from the dwelling R0. For example, each function of the controller 16 is realized on a cloud server. Each device of the ventilation system 50, such as the ventilation device 1, the first environmental sensor 2, the second environmental sensor 3, the first ventilation device 5, the second ventilation device 6, the air conditioner 60, etc., may be controlled by the function of the controller 16 on the cloud server via the communication device 61.

[0106] In addition, the second ventilation device 6 may communicate with an IH cooking heater, a gas appliance, etc. in the kitchen as a range hood and operate in cooperation with them.

[0107] For example, data such as the operation of the ventilation device 1, the detection results of the first environmental sensor 2, the detection results of the second environmental sensor 3, and the operation results of the air conditioner 60 may be stored on the cloud server via the communication device 61. The resident of the dwelling R0 can access the cloud server via their own mobile terminal S such as a smartphone and check the status of various control operations. Therefore, the resident's acceptance and satisfaction with the ventilation system 50 are improved.

[0108] In the ventilation system 50 configured as described above, the same operations as in the first embodiment are performed.

[0109] According to the second embodiment described above, the first environmental sensor 2 and the second environmental sensor 3 are provided in the dwelling R0 as separate bodies from the ventilation device 1. That is, the first environmental sensor 2 is provided in the first separate housing 30 installed in the first space A1. The second environmental sensor 3 is provided in the second separate housing 31 installed in the second space A2. The first separate housing 30 and the second separate housing 31 are separate bodies from the ventilation device 1, that is, they do not contact the duct body 11. Therefore, in the first space A1 and the second space A2, the sensors can be installed at positions according to the preferences and environment of the resident. Therefore, the detection accuracy of the environmental physical quantities of the first environmental sensor 2 and the second environmental sensor 3 can be improved.

[0110] Next, an example of the hardware constituting the controller 16 will be described with reference to FIG. 12. FIG. 12 is a hardware configuration diagram of the controller of the ventilation device in the first and second embodiments.

[0111] Each function of the controller 16 can be realized by a processing circuit. For example, the processing circuit includes at least one processor 100a and at least one memory 100b. For example, the processing circuit includes at least one dedicated hardware 200.

[0112] When the processing circuit includes at least one processor 100a and at least one memory 100b, each function of the controller 16 is realized by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. At least one of the software and the firmware is described as a program. At least one of the software and the firmware is stored in at least one memory 100b. The at least one processor 100a realizes each function of the controller 16 by reading and executing the program stored in the at least one memory 100b. The at least one processor 100a is also referred to as a central processing unit, a processing unit, an arithmetic unit, a microprocessor, a microcomputer, or a DSP. For example, the at least one memory 100b is a non-volatile or volatile semiconductor memory such as a RAM, a ROM, a flash memory, an EPROM, or an EEPROM, a magnetic disk, a flexible disk, an optical disk, a compact disk, a mini disk, or a DVD.

[0113] When the processing circuit includes at least one dedicated hardware 200, the processing circuit is realized by, for example, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof. For example, each function of the controller 16 is realized by the processing circuit respectively. For example, each function of the controller 16 is realized by the processing circuit collectively.

[0114] Regarding each function of the controller 16, a part may be realized by dedicated hardware 200 and the other part may be realized by software or firmware. For example, the function of the detection unit 16a may be realized by a processing circuit as dedicated hardware 200, and the functions other than the function of the detection unit 16a may be realized by the at least one processor 100a reading and executing the program stored in the at least one memory 100b.

[0115] In this way, the processing circuit realizes each function of the controller 16 in hardware 200, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0116] Although not shown, each function of the first environmental sensor 2, the second environmental sensor 3, and the cooperation device 7 is also realized by a processing circuit equivalent to the processing circuit that realizes each function of the controller 16.

[0117] Also, as shown in Embodiment 2, some or all of the functions of the controller 16 may be realized on a cloud server. In this case, the processing circuit is composed of a plurality of sub-circuits. The plurality of sub-processing circuits are respectively provided in a plurality of devices constituting the cloud server. The plurality of devices constituting the cloud server may each be provided in a different building.

[0118] Summarizing the above description, the possible configurations of the technology according to the present disclosure include the following configurations shown as appendices. (Appendix 1) An air duct body that forms an air passage connecting the first space and the second space by penetrating a wall separating the first space and the second space in the target space, A fan that generates an air flow from the first space to the second space inside the air duct body, A shutter that changes the opening degree of the air passage by moving between a position that does not block the air passage and a position that blocks the air passage, A first environmental sensor provided inside the first space and measuring the environmental physical quantity of the first space, A second environmental sensor provided inside the second space and measuring the environmental physical quantity of the second space, A controller that changes the opening degree of the shutter based on at least one of the environmental physical quantity detected by the first environmental sensor and the environmental physical quantity detected by the second environmental sensor, A ventilation device provided with the above. (Appendix 2) The first environmental sensor and the second environmental sensor detect the air pollution degree, which is an index value indicating that the air is polluted, as the environmental physical quantity, When the shutter is open and the fan is rotating, if the first air pollution level detected by the first environmental sensor is greater than a specified first pollution threshold value, the controller closes the shutter and stops the fan. The ventilation device according to Supplementary Note 1. (Supplementary Note 3) The first environmental sensor and the second environmental sensor detect the air pollution level, which is an index value indicating that the air is polluted, as the environmental physical quantity. When the shutter is open and the fan is rotating, if the difference in air pollution level obtained by subtracting the second air pollution level detected by the second environmental sensor from the first air pollution level detected by the first environmental sensor is greater than a specified second pollution threshold value, the controller closes the shutter and stops the fan. The ventilation device according to Supplementary Note 1. (Supplementary Note 4) The first environmental sensor and the second environmental sensor detect the air pollution level, which is an index value indicating that the air is polluted, as the environmental physical quantity. When the shutter is open and the fan is rotating, the greater the first air pollution level detected by the first environmental sensor, the smaller the opening degree of the shutter. The ventilation device according to Supplementary Note 1. (Supplementary Note 5) The air pollution level includes an odor value, which is an index value of the odor contained in the air. The ventilation device according to any one of Supplementary Notes 2 to 4. (Supplementary Note 6) The air pollution level includes the concentration of particles contained in the air. The ventilation device according to any one of Supplementary Notes 2 to 4. (Supplementary Note 7) The first environmental sensor and the second environmental sensor detect the noise value, which is an index value of the loudness of sound, as the environmental physical quantity. When the shutter is open and the fan is rotating, if the second noise value detected by the second environmental sensor is greater than a specified first noise threshold value, the controller closes the shutter and stops the fan. The ventilation device according to any one of Appendices 1 to 6. (Appendix 8) The first environmental sensor and the second environmental sensor detect a noise value, which is an index value of the loudness of sound, as the environmental physical quantity. When the shutter is open and the fan is rotating, if the difference in noise values obtained by subtracting the first noise value detected by the first environmental sensor from the second noise value detected by the second environmental sensor is greater than a specified second noise threshold value, the controller closes the shutter and stops the fan. The ventilation device according to any one of Appendices 1 to 6. (Appendix 9) The first environmental sensor and the second environmental sensor detect a noise value, which is an index value of the loudness of sound, as the environmental physical quantity. When the shutter is open and the fan is rotating, the controller decreases the opening degree of the shutter as the second noise value detected by the second environmental sensor is larger. The ventilation device according to any one of Appendices 1 to 6. (Appendix 10) A first housing that forms an opening on the first space side of the air duct body on the side of the first space with respect to the wall, A second housing that forms an opening on the second space side of the air duct body on the side of the second space with respect to the wall, further comprising The first environmental sensor is attached to the first housing. The second environmental sensor is attached to the second housing. The ventilation device according to any one of Appendices 1 to 9. (Appendix 11) The first environmental sensor is provided in a first separate housing installed inside the first space without contacting the air duct body. The second environmental sensor is provided in a second separate housing installed inside the second space without contacting the air duct body. The ventilation device according to any one of Appendices 1 to 9. (Appendix 12) The first space is a living room of a dwelling, The second space is a non-living room of the dwelling, The ventilation device according to any one of Appendices 1 to 11. (Appendix 13) A ventilation device that forms an air passage connecting the first space and the second space by penetrating a wall separating the first space and the second space among target spaces, A first environmental sensor provided inside the first space and measuring an environmental physical quantity of the first space, A second environmental sensor provided inside the second space and measuring an environmental physical quantity of the second space, Comprising: The ventilation device is An air duct body forming the air passage connecting the first space and the second space, A fan that generates an air flow from the first space to the second space inside the air duct body, A shutter that changes the opening degree of the air passage by moving between a position that does not block the air passage and a position that blocks the air passage, A controller that changes the opening degree of the shutter based on at least one of the environmental physical quantity detected by the first environmental sensor and the environmental physical quantity detected by the second environmental sensor, A ventilation system having the above. (Appendix 14) A ventilation device provided in the first space and discharging the air in the first space to the outside of the target space when operating, Further comprising: The first environmental sensor and the second environmental sensor detect the air pollution degree, which is an index value indicating that the air is polluted, as the environmental physical quantity, When the shutter is open and the fan is rotating, if the first air pollution degree detected by the first environmental sensor is greater than a specified first pollution threshold value, the controller closes the shutter and stops the fan, When the operation of the ventilation device is stopped, if the first air pollution degree is greater than the first pollution threshold value, the ventilation device starts operating. The ventilation system according to Appendix 13.

Explanation of Signs

[0119] 1 Ventilation device, 2 First environmental sensor, 3 Second environmental sensor, 4 Ventilation port body, 5 First ventilation device, 6 Second ventilation device, 7 Cooperation device, 11 Duct body, 12 First housing, 13 Second housing, 14 Fan, 15 Shutter, 15a Closing body, 15b Driving machine, 16 Controller, 16a Detection unit, 16b Judgment unit, 16c Operation control unit, 30 First separate housing, 31 Second separate housing, 50 Ventilation system, 60 Air conditioner, 61 Communication device, 100a Processor, 100b Memory, 200 Hardware, A0 Target space, A1 First space, A2 Second space, R0 Residence, R1 Living room, R2 Corridor, R3 Dressing room, R4 Bathroom, R5 Toilet, R6, R7, R8 Rooms, B Balcony, D Door, E Entrance, W Wall, S Mobile terminal

Claims

1. A duct body that forms an air passage connecting the first space and the second space by penetrating a wall separating the first space and the second space in the target space; A fan that generates an air flow from the first space to the second space inside the duct body; A shutter that changes the opening degree of the air passage by moving between a position that does not block the air passage and a position that blocks the air passage; A first environmental sensor provided inside the first space for measuring the environmental physical quantity of the first space; A second environmental sensor provided inside the second space for measuring the environmental physical quantity of the second space; A controller that changes the opening degree of the shutter based on at least one of the environmental physical quantity detected by the first environmental sensor and the environmental physical quantity detected by the second environmental sensor; A ventilation device comprising the above.

2. The first environmental sensor and the second environmental sensor detect the air pollution degree, which is an index value indicating that the air is polluted, as the environmental physical quantity. When the shutter is open and the fan is rotating, if the first air pollution degree detected by the first environmental sensor is greater than a specified first pollution threshold value, the controller closes the shutter and stops the fan. The ventilation device according to Claim 1.

3. The first environmental sensor and the second environmental sensor detect the air pollution degree, which is an index value indicating that the air is polluted, as the environmental physical quantity. When the shutter is open and the fan is rotating, if the difference in air pollution degree obtained by subtracting the second air pollution degree detected by the second environmental sensor from the first air pollution degree detected by the first environmental sensor is greater than a specified second pollution threshold value, the controller closes the shutter and stops the fan. The ventilation device according to Claim 1.

4. The first environmental sensor and the second environmental sensor detect the air pollution degree, which is an index value indicating that the air is polluted, as the environmental physical quantity. When the shutter is open and the fan is rotating, the greater the first air pollution degree detected by the first environmental sensor, the smaller the opening degree of the shutter. The ventilation device according to Claim 1.

5. The air pollution degree includes an odor value, which is an index value of the odor contained in the air. The ventilation device according to any one of Claims 2 to 4.

6. The air pollution degree includes the concentration of particles contained in the air. The ventilation device according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

7. The first environmental sensor and the second environmental sensor detect a noise value, which is an index value of the loudness of sound, as the environmental physical quantity. When the shutter is open and the fan is rotating, if the second noise value detected by the second environmental sensor is greater than a specified first noise threshold value, the controller closes the shutter and stops the fan. The ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

8. The first environmental sensor and the second environmental sensor detect a noise value, which is an index value of the loudness of sound, as the environmental physical quantity. When the shutter is open and the fan is rotating, if the difference in noise value obtained by subtracting the first noise value detected by the first environmental sensor from the second noise value detected by the second environmental sensor is greater than a specified second noise threshold value, the controller closes the shutter and stops the fan. The ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

9. The first environmental sensor and the second environmental sensor detect a noise value, which is an index value of the loudness of sound, as the environmental physical quantity. When the shutter is open and the fan is rotating, the controller decreases the opening degree of the shutter as the second noise value detected by the second environmental sensor is larger. The ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

10. A first housing that forms an opening on the first space side of the air duct body on the side of the first space rather than the wall, A second housing that forms an opening on the second space side of the air duct body on the side of the second space rather than the wall, further comprising: The first environmental sensor is attached to the first housing, The second environmental sensor is attached to the second housing. The ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

11. The first environmental sensor is provided in a first separate housing installed inside the first space without contacting the air duct body, The second environmental sensor is provided in a second separate housing installed inside the second space without contacting the air duct body. The ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

12. The first space is a living room of a dwelling, The second space is a non-living room of the dwelling. The ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

13. A ventilation device that forms an air passage connecting the first space and the second space by penetrating a wall separating the first space and the second space in the target space, A first environmental sensor provided inside the first space for measuring the environmental physical quantity of the first space, A second environmental sensor provided inside the second space for measuring the environmental physical quantity of the second space, Comprising: The ventilation device An air duct body forming the air passage connecting the first space and the second space, A fan that generates an air flow from the first space to the second space inside the air duct body, A shutter that changes the opening degree of the air passage by moving between a position that does not block the air passage and a position that blocks the air passage, A controller that changes the opening degree of the shutter based on at least one of the environmental physical quantity detected by the first environmental sensor and the environmental physical quantity detected by the second environmental sensor, A ventilation system having the above.

14. A ventilation device provided in the first space that discharges the air in the first space to the outside of the target space when it operates, Further comprising: The first environmental sensor and the second environmental sensor detect the air pollution degree, which is an index value indicating that the air is polluted, as the environmental physical quantity, When the first air pollution degree detected by the first environmental sensor is greater than a specified first pollution threshold when the shutter is open and the fan is rotating, the controller closes the shutter and stops the fan, When the first air pollution degree is greater than the first pollution threshold when the operation of the ventilation device is stopped, the ventilation device starts operating. The ventilation system according to claim 13.

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