Air conditioning control system and air conditioning control method

Abstract

To bring a measured temperature and measured humidity close to a target temperature and target humidity respectively in a shorter time.SOLUTION: An air conditioning control system 10 includes a target value acquisition part 23, a measured value acquisition part 22, and a control part 21. The target value acquisition part 23 acquires a target temperature T2 and target humidity H2. The measured value acquisition part 22 acquires a measured temperature T1 measured by a temperature sensor 52A, and measured humidity H1 measured by a humidity sensor 52B. The control part 21 controls an air conditioner 1 which has a first dehumidification function accompanying a temperature drop, and a dehumidifier 2 which has a second dehumidification function accompanying a temperature increase. The control part 21 controls the air conditioner 1 and the humidifier 2 in such a manner that the measured temperature T1 coincides with the target temperature T2, and the measured humidity H1 coincides with the target humidity H2.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioning control system and an air conditioning control method.

Background Art

[0002] The air conditioning system of Patent Document 1 includes an air conditioner and another air conditioner that are arranged in one room and can communicate with each other, and controls the air conditioner and the other air conditioner based on the operating state of the other air conditioner and the detection result of at least one of a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the air conditioning system of Patent Document 1, the air conditioner and the other air conditioner have the same function, and it may take time for the air in the room to reach the target temperature and the target humidity.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an air conditioning control system and an air conditioning control method capable of bringing the measured temperature and the measured humidity closer to the target temperature and the target humidity, respectively, in a shorter time.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The air conditioning control system according to the present invention includes a target value acquisition unit, a measured value acquisition unit, and a control unit. The target value acquisition unit acquires a target temperature and a target humidity. The measured value acquisition unit acquires a measured temperature measured by a temperature sensor and a measured humidity measured by a humidity sensor. The control unit controls an air conditioner having a first dehumidification function accompanied by a temperature drop and a dehumidifier having a second dehumidification function accompanied by a temperature rise. The control unit controls the air conditioner and the dehumidifier so that the measured temperature matches the target temperature and the measured humidity matches the target humidity.

[0007] The air conditioning control method according to the present invention includes a target value acquisition step, a measured value acquisition step, and a control step. In the target value acquisition step, a target temperature and a target humidity are acquired. In the measured value acquisition step, a measured temperature measured by a temperature sensor and a measured humidity measured by a humidity sensor are acquired. In the control step, an air conditioner having a first dehumidification function accompanied by a temperature drop and a dehumidifier having a second dehumidification function accompanied by a temperature rise are controlled. In the control step, the air conditioner and the dehumidifier are controlled so that the measured temperature matches the target temperature and the measured humidity matches the target humidity.

Advantages of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to make the measured temperature and the measured humidity approach the target temperature and the target humidity, respectively, in a shorter time.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0011] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the air conditioning system 100 according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing the air conditioning system 100 according to this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the air conditioning system 100 according to this embodiment.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioning system 100 includes an air conditioner 1 and a dehumidifier 2. The air conditioner 1 has an indoor unit 1A (FIG. 1) and an outdoor unit 1B (not shown in FIG. 1). As an example, the indoor unit 1A of the air conditioner 1 is disposed on the wall of the room R1. The dehumidifier 2 is disposed on the floor of the room R1. The outdoor unit 1B of the air conditioner 1 is disposed outside (outdoor) the room R1.

[0013] The indoor unit 1A and the outdoor unit 1B are connected to each other by pipes. Refrigerant circulates between the air conditioner 1 and the outdoor unit 5 through the pipes.

[0014] The air conditioner 1 adjusts the air temperature (room temperature) indicating the temperature of the room R1 and also adjusts the humidity of the room R1. The air conditioner 1 has, as operating modes, a cooling mode in which a function of cooling the room temperature of the room R1 is set and a dehumidifying mode in which a function of dehumidifying the room R1 is set.

[0015] The air conditioner 1 operating in the cooling mode cools the room temperature of the room R1. Generally, as the room temperature of the room R1 is cooled by the air conditioner 1, the humidity of the room R1 also decreases.

[0016] On the one hand, the air conditioner 1 operating in the dehumidification mode dehumidifies the room R1. Generally, as the room R1 is dehumidified by the air conditioner 1, the room temperature also drops. In other words, when the air conditioner 1 dehumidifies the room R1, the temperature of the room R1 drops. That is, the air conditioner 1 has a first dehumidification function accompanied by a temperature drop. In the present embodiment, when the air conditioner 1 operates in the dehumidification mode, compared with the case where the air conditioner 1 operates in the cooling mode, the drop in the room temperature of the room R1 is small, and the drop in humidity is large.

[0017] In this way, the air conditioner 1 reduces the humidity of the room R1 while reducing the room temperature of the room R1, whether in the cooling mode or the dehumidification mode.

[0018] [Air conditioner 1] Next, the principle of adjusting the room temperature of the room R1 by the air conditioner 1 and the principle of dehumidifying the room R1 by the air conditioner 1 will be described.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 2, the indoor unit 1A includes a fan 31A and a heat exchanger 41A. The outdoor unit 1B has a fan 31B, a heat exchanger 41B, a compressor 43, and an expansion valve 45.

[0020] The fan 31A is, for example, an impeller (cross-flow fan) in the shape of a substantially cylindrical body. When the fan 31A rotates, the air in the room R1 is sucked into the indoor unit 1A from the outside and blown out from the indoor unit 1A into the room R1. In this way, the fan 31A blows air.

[0021] The heat exchanger 41A has refrigerant flowing inside and adjusts the properties of the air. Specifically, the heat exchanger 41A performs heat exchange. In detail, the heat exchanger 41A transfers heat energy between the air sucked into the indoor unit 1A and the refrigerant flowing inside the heat exchanger 41. For example, the air passing through the indoor unit 1A is cooled by the refrigerant and blown into the room R1.

[0022] On one hand, the refrigerant flowing inside the heat exchanger 41A has its temperature raised by heat exchange. The refrigerant with the raised temperature moves to the outdoor unit 1B through the piping. In the outdoor unit 1B, the compressor 43 applies pressure to the refrigerant to bring it to a high-temperature and high-pressure state. The refrigerant that has become high-temperature and high-pressure by the compressor 43 flows inside the heat exchanger 41B. At this time, heat exchange occurs between the air inside the outdoor unit 1B and the refrigerant flowing inside the heat exchanger 41B. As a result, while the temperature of the refrigerant decreases, the temperature of the air around the heat exchanger 41B rises. The air around the heat exchanger 41B is blown out of the outdoor unit 1B (outdoors) by the blowing of the fan 31B that blows air.

[0023] The refrigerant whose temperature has decreased by heat exchange in the heat exchanger 41B passes through the expansion valve 45. When passing through the expansion valve 45, the refrigerant expands. As a result, adiabatic cooling occurs due to the expansion, and while the temperature of the refrigerant decreases, the pressure of the refrigerant also decreases. The refrigerant that has passed through the expansion valve 45 flows through the piping and into the heat exchanger 41A of the indoor unit 1A.

[0024] [Dehumidifier 2] The dehumidifier 2 reduces the humidity in the room R1. That is, the dehumidifier 2 dehumidifies the room R1. As an example, the dehumidifier 2 is a compressor-type dehumidifier. Since the principle of dehumidifying the room R1 by the dehumidifier 2 is the same as the principle of dehumidifying by the heat exchanger 41A and the outdoor unit 1B of the air conditioner 1, the details are omitted. Specifically, the dehumidifier 2 has a fan 32, a heat exchanger 42A, a heat exchanger 42B, a compressor 44, and a capillary tube 46. In the dehumidifier 2, the refrigerant circulates among the heat exchanger 42A, the compressor 44, the heat exchanger 42B, and the capillary tube 46. Similar to the fan 31A of the indoor unit 1A, the air in the room R1 is sucked into the dehumidifier 2 from the outside by the fan 31B and blown out from the dehumidifier 2 into the room R1. Note that an expansion valve may be provided instead of the capillary tube 46.

[0025] Inside the dehumidifier 2, the air sucked into the interior of the dehumidifier 2 by heat exchange with the heat exchanger 42A is dehumidified. Further, the temperature of the air dehumidified by heat exchange with the heat exchanger 42B rises. Thus, the air blown out from the dehumidifier 2 into the room R1 has a lower humidity and a higher temperature than the air sucked into the dehumidifier 2. That is, the dehumidifier 2 has a second dehumidifying function accompanied by a temperature rise.

[0026] As operation modes of the second dehumidifying function, the dehumidifier 2 has a strong operation mode in which the fan 31B rotates faster and a weak operation mode in which the rotation speed of the fan 31B is slower than that in the strong operation mode. The weak operation mode has a smaller temperature rise and humidity reduction than the strong operation mode.

[0027] Next, the air conditioning control system 10 that controls the air conditioning system 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. In the present embodiment, the indoor unit 1A further includes a control unit 11, a measurement value acquisition unit 12, a target value acquisition unit 13, a temperature sensor 51A, a humidity sensor 51B, and a reception unit 61. The control unit 11 controls the fan 31A of the indoor unit 1A and the compressor 43 of the outdoor unit 1B. The control unit 11 includes a central processing unit (CPU) and a storage device. The storage device includes at least one of a non-volatile storage medium such as a hard disk and a memory (read only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM)). The storage device stores various computer programs and various data. The central processing unit of the control unit 11 functions as the control unit 11 by executing the computer programs stored in the storage device.

[0028] The temperature sensor 51A measures the room temperature of the room R1 and outputs a temperature signal indicating the measured temperature T1, which is the measurement result, to the measurement value acquisition unit 12. When receiving the temperature signal from the temperature sensor 51A, the measurement value acquisition unit 12 acquires the measured temperature T1 from the temperature signal. The measurement value acquisition unit 12 outputs a signal including the measurement value Vt indicating the acquired measured temperature T1 to the control unit 11. In the present embodiment, the measurement value acquisition unit 12 includes an arithmetic element. The measurement value acquisition unit 12 functions as the measurement value acquisition unit 12, for example, by executing a computer program stored in the storage device of the control unit 11.

[0029] The humidity sensor 51B measures the humidity of the room R1 and outputs a humidity signal indicating the measured humidity H1, which is the measurement result, to the measurement value acquisition unit 12. When receiving the humidity signal from the humidity sensor 51B, the measurement value acquisition unit 12 acquires the measured humidity H1 from the humidity signal. The measurement value acquisition unit 12 outputs a signal including the measurement value Vh indicating the acquired measured humidity H1 to the control unit 11.

[0030] The reception unit 61 receives a signal input indicating a target value set by the user. The target value includes at least one of the target value Pt indicating the target temperature T2 of the room R1 and the target value Ph indicating the target humidity H2 of the room R1. Specifically, the user operates an information terminal device such as a remote control or a smartphone to input the target value to the remote control or the information terminal device. The remote control or the information terminal device respectively generates an infrared signal or a wireless signal indicating the input target value and transmits it to the indoor unit 1A. Here, the wireless signal is a signal used in communication conforming to a communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), or WiFi.

[0031] In the present embodiment, the reception unit 61 is an infrared light receiving unit or a communication module capable of receiving a wireless signal. The communication module may be a reception module capable of receiving only a wireless signal, or a communication module capable of two-way communication with the information terminal device.

[0032] When the reception unit 61 receives an infrared signal or a wireless signal transmitted from a remote control or an information terminal device, it acquires at least one of the target values Pt and Ph included in the infrared signal or the wireless signal and outputs it to the target value acquisition unit 13. When the target value acquisition unit 13 receives the target value Pt output from the reception unit 61, it acquires the target temperature T2 based on the target value Pt. When the target value acquisition unit 13 receives the target value Ph output from the reception unit 61, it acquires the target humidity H2 based on the target value Ph. The target value acquisition unit 13 outputs a signal including at least one of the target value Pt indicating the acquired target temperature T2 and the target value Ph indicating the target humidity H2 to the control unit 11. In the present embodiment, the target value acquisition unit 13 includes an arithmetic element. The target value acquisition unit 13 functions as the target value acquisition unit 13, for example, by executing a computer program stored in the storage device of the control unit 11.

[0033] In the present embodiment, the air conditioner 1 and the dehumidifier 2 can communicate with each other. The air conditioner 1 and the dehumidifier 2 are connected to a network (not shown) and transmit and receive various information to and from each other via the network. As an example, the network is configured in accordance with a communication standard based on WiFi. Note that the air conditioner 1 and the dehumidifier 2 may communicate directly without going through the network, or may communicate via another device such as a server connected to the network. Also, when the air conditioner 1 and the dehumidifier 2 communicate directly, the air conditioner 1 and the dehumidifier 2 perform communication in accordance with a communication standard based on, for example, Bluetooth.

[0034] Specifically, the control unit 11 has a communication unit 71. The communication unit 71 communicates with a device outside the indoor unit 1A. The communication unit 71 includes a port for wired connection or a communication module. When the communication unit 71 includes a communication module, the communication unit 71 may also function as the reception unit 61. In this case, the control unit 11 functions as the communication unit 71 and the reception unit 61 by executing a computer program stored in the storage device.

[0035] In this embodiment, the communication unit 71 communicates with the dehumidifier 2. Specifically, the communication unit 71 obtains the measured value Vh, the measured value Vh, the target value Pt, and the target value Ph from signals including the measured value Vt indicating the measured temperature T1 received by the control unit 11, the signal including the measured value Vh indicating the measured humidity H1, and at least one of the signal including the target value Pt indicating the target temperature T2 and the signal including the target value Ph indicating the target humidity H2, and transmits a signal including the measured value Vh, the measured value Vh, the target value Pt, and the target value Ph to the dehumidifier 2 directly or via a network (not shown).

[0036] The dehumidifier 2 further includes a control unit 21, a measured value acquisition unit 22, a target value acquisition unit 23, a temperature sensor 52A, a humidity sensor 52B, and a reception unit 62. Since the measured value acquisition unit 22, the temperature sensor 52A, and the humidity sensor 52B have the same functions as the measured value acquisition unit 12, the temperature sensor 51A, and the humidity sensor 51B of the indoor unit 1A, respectively, the description thereof is omitted. The control unit 21 controls the fan 31B. That is, unlike the control unit 11, the control unit 21 does not control the compressor 44. Since the control unit 21 performs the same processing as the control unit 11 except for not controlling the compressor 44, the description thereof is omitted.

[0037] The target value acquisition unit 23 and the reception unit 62 perform the same processing as the target value acquisition unit 13 and the reception unit 61 except that they only receive the target humidity, so the description thereof is omitted. Note that the target value acquisition unit 23 and the reception unit 62 may receive the target temperature and the target humidity in the same manner as the target value acquisition unit 13 and the reception unit 61.

[0038] The control unit 21 has a communication unit 72. The communication unit 72 communicates with a device outside the dehumidifier 2. The communication unit 72 includes a port for wired connection or a communication module. When the communication unit 72 includes a communication module, the communication unit 72 may also function as the reception unit 62. In this case, the control unit 21 functions as the communication unit 72 and the reception unit 62 by executing a computer program stored in the storage device.

[0039] In this embodiment, the communication unit 72 communicates with the indoor unit 1A. Specifically, the communication unit 72 receives a signal including a measurement value Vt indicating the measured temperature T1, a signal including a measurement value Vh indicating the measured humidity H1, and a signal including at least one of a target value Pt indicating the target temperature T2 and a target value Ph indicating the target humidity H2, all transmitted from the indoor unit 1A.

[0040] The control unit 21 acquires the measured values ​​Vt, Vh, target values ​​Pt, and Ph from a signal including a measured value Vt indicating a measured temperature T1, a signal including a measured value Vh indicating a measured humidity H1, and a signal including at least one of a target value Pt indicating a target temperature T2 and a target value Ph indicating a target humidity H2, received by the communication unit 72. The control unit 21 controls the air conditioner 1 and the dehumidifier 2 based on the acquired measured values ​​Vt, Vh, target values ​​Pt, and Ph. Specifically, the control unit 21 controls the air conditioner 1 and the dehumidifier 2 so that the measured value Vt (measured temperature T1) coincides with the target value Pt (target temperature T2) and the measured value Vh (measured humidity H1) coincides with the target value Ph (target humidity H2). In this embodiment, the control unit 21, the measured value acquisition unit 22, and the target value acquisition unit 23 configure the air conditioning control system 10.

[0041] In this manner, in this embodiment, the air conditioner 1 and the dehumidifier 2 are controlled in conjunction with each other by the control unit 21. This makes it possible to bring the room temperature and humidity of room R1 closer to the target temperature T2 and target humidity H2, respectively, in a shorter time than when multiple air conditioners 1 are coordinated to adjust the room temperature and humidity of room R1, or when multiple dehumidifiers 2 are coordinated to adjust the humidity of room R1.

[0042] For example, the control unit 21 has a temperature priority mode in which temperature reduction is prioritized over humidity reduction, and a humidity priority mode in which humidity reduction is prioritized over temperature reduction, as control modes for each of the air conditioner 1 and the dehumidifier 2. In the humidity priority mode, the temperature reduction is smaller and the humidity reduction is larger than in the temperature priority mode.

[0043] Based on the measured value Vt, the measured value Vh, the target value Pt, and the target value Ph, the control unit 21 sets either the temperature priority mode or the humidity priority mode as the control mode. As a result, a more suitable mode is selected to bring the room temperature and the humidity of room R1 closer to the target temperature T2 and the target humidity H2, respectively.

[0044] As an example, based on the discomfort index D calculated using the temperature T [°C] and the humidity H [%], the control unit 21 sets either the temperature priority mode or the humidity priority mode as the control mode. Specifically, the discomfort index D is calculated by the following formula (1). D = 0.81×T + 0.01×H×(0.99×T - 14.3) + 46.3 (1)

[0045] The discomfort index D is an index that quantifies comfort. When the discomfort index D is a value between 65 and 70, it generally indicates a comfortable state. In this embodiment, since it is selected whether to set the temperature priority mode or the humidity priority mode according to the discomfort index D, the room temperature and the humidity of room R1 can be brought closer to the target temperature T2 and the target humidity H2, respectively, while maintaining a more comfortable state.

[0046] Specifically, the control unit 21 calculates the discomfort index D1 calculated using the target value Pt (target temperature T2) and the measured value Vh (measured humidity H1). Hereinafter, the discomfort index D1 may be referred to as the temperature assumed discomfort index. Further, the control unit 21 calculates the discomfort index D2 calculated using the measured value Vt (measured temperature T1) and the target value Ph (target humidity H2). Hereinafter, the discomfort index D2 may be referred to as the humidity assumed discomfort index.

[0047] When the discomfort index D1 is smaller than the discomfort index D2, the control unit 21 sets the temperature priority mode as the control mode. On the other hand, when the discomfort index D2 is less than or equal to the discomfort index D1, the control unit 21 sets the humidity priority mode as the control mode.

[0048] By calculating the discomfort index when only the room temperature in room R1 approaches the target temperature T2 and when only the humidity in room R1 approaches the target humidity H2, respectively, it is possible to determine which of the room temperature in room R1 and the humidity in room R1 has a greater impact on the discomfort index. As a result, among the temperature priority mode and the humidity priority mode, the operation mode can be easily selected to bring the room temperature in room R1 and the humidity in room R1 closer to the target temperature T2 and the target humidity H2, respectively, in a shorter time.

[0049] [Control of Temperature Priority Mode] When the temperature priority mode is set as the control mode, the control unit 21 operates the air conditioner 1 in the cooling mode and operates the dehumidifier 2 in the weak operation mode. Specifically, the control unit 21 generates instruction information including a setting instruction to set the air conditioner 1 in the cooling mode, the target temperature T2, and the target humidity H2, and transmits it to the air conditioner 1 (indoor unit 1A) via the communication unit 72.

[0050] The communication unit 71 of the air conditioner 1 (indoor unit 1A) receives the instruction information transmitted from the dehumidifier 2, and acquires the setting instruction, the target temperature T2, and the target humidity H2 included in the instruction information. The control unit 11 of the air conditioner 1 (indoor unit 1A and outdoor unit 1B) sets the air conditioner 1 (indoor unit 1A and outdoor unit 1B) in the cooling mode according to the setting instruction acquired by the communication unit 71, and controls the air conditioner 1 (indoor unit 1A and outdoor unit 1B) so that the measured value Vt (measured temperature T1) of the temperature sensor 51A matches the target temperature T2 and the measured value Vh (measured humidity H1) of the humidity sensor 51B matches the target humidity H2.

[0051] Specifically, the control unit 11 increases the rotational speed of the fan 31A so that the force of the air blown out from the indoor unit 1A becomes stronger. Further, the control unit 11 controls the compressor 43 of the outdoor unit 1B so that air at a temperature lower than the room temperature of the room R1 is sent out from the indoor unit 1A. Specifically, the control unit 11 increases the rotational speed of the motor included in the compressor 43. As a result, the circulation speed of the refrigerant passing through the heat exchanger 41A of the indoor unit 1A becomes faster, and it becomes easier to maintain the air passing through the heat exchanger 41A at a low temperature. Therefore, colder and stronger air is blown out from the indoor unit 1A.

[0052] On the other hand, the control unit 21 sets the dehumidifier 2 to the weak operation mode and controls the dehumidifier 2 so that the measured value Vh (measured humidity H1) of the humidity sensor 52B matches the target humidity H2.

[0053] Specifically, the control unit 21 decreases the rotational speed of the fan 31B or stops the rotation of the fan 31B so that the force of the air blown out from the dehumidifier 2 becomes weaker. As a result, the temperature rise associated with the second dehumidification function of the dehumidifier 2 is suppressed. In this way, by operating the air conditioner 1 in the cooling mode and operating the dehumidifier 2 in the weak operation mode, it becomes possible to bring the room temperature of the room R1 closer to the target temperature T2 in a shorter time.

[0054] [Control in Humidity Priority Mode] On the other hand, when the humidity priority mode is set as the control mode, the control unit 21 operates the air conditioner 1 in the dehumidification mode and operates the dehumidifier 2 in the strong operation mode. Specifically, the control unit 21 generates instruction information including a setting instruction for setting the air conditioner 1 to the dehumidification mode, the target temperature T2, and the target humidity H2, and transmits the instruction information to the air conditioner 1 (indoor unit 1A) via the communication unit 72.

[0055] The communication unit 71 of the air conditioner 1 (indoor unit 1A) receives the instruction information transmitted from the dehumidifier 2, and acquires the setting instruction, the target temperature T2, and the target humidity H2 included in the instruction information. The control unit 11 of the air conditioner 1 (indoor unit 1A and outdoor unit 1B) sets the air conditioner 1 (indoor unit 1A and outdoor unit 1B) to the dehumidification mode according to the setting instruction acquired by the communication unit 71, and the measured value Vt (measured temperature T1) of the temperature sensor 51A matches the target temperature T2, and the measured value Vh (measured humidity H1) of the humidity sensor 51B matches the target humidity H2, and controls the air conditioner 1 (indoor unit 1A and outdoor unit 1B).

[0056] Specifically, the control unit 11 controls the compressor 43 of the outdoor unit 1B so that the amount of condensation of the moisture contained in the air passing through the heat exchanger 41A increases. Specifically, the control unit 11 increases the rotational speed of the motor included in the compressor 43. As a result, the circulation speed of the refrigerant passing through the heat exchanger 41A of the indoor unit 1A becomes faster, and the amount of condensation of the moisture contained in the air passing through the heat exchanger 41A increases.

[0057] On the other hand, the control unit 21 sets the dehumidifier 2 to the strong operation mode and controls the dehumidifier 2 so that the measured value Vh (measured humidity H1) of the humidity sensor 52B matches the target humidity H2.

[0058] Specifically, the control unit 21 increases the rotational speed of the fan 31B so that the momentum of the air blown out from the dehumidifier 2 becomes stronger. As a result, the amount of air sucked into the dehumidifier 2 increases, and the amount of air passing through the heat exchanger 42A also increases. Therefore, the amount of air dehumidified by the dehumidifier 2 increases. In this way, by operating the air conditioner 1 in the dehumidification mode and operating the dehumidifier 2 in the strong operation mode, it becomes possible to bring the humidity in the room R1 closer to the target humidity H2 in a shorter time.

[0059] In the present embodiment, the control unit 21 periodically executes a setting process of setting either the temperature priority mode or the humidity priority mode as the control mode based on the comparison result between the discomfort index D1 (temperature assumed discomfort index) and the discomfort index D2 (humidity assumed discomfort index).

[0060] Specifically, at least one of the temperature sensor 51A and the temperature sensor 52A periodically measures the room temperature of the room R1 and outputs a temperature signal indicating the measured temperature T1, which is the measurement result, to the measurement value acquisition unit 12. Further, at least one of the humidity sensor 51B and the humidity sensor 52B measures the humidity of the room R1 and outputs a humidity signal indicating the measured humidity H1, which is the measurement result, to the measurement value acquisition unit 12. As described above, the measurement results of each of the temperature sensor 51A, the temperature sensor 52A, the humidity sensor 51B, and the humidity sensor 52B are acquired by the control unit 21. Each time the control unit 21 acquires the measurement results of the temperature sensor 52A, the humidity sensor 51B, and the humidity sensor 52B, it calculates a discomfort index D1 (temperature assumed discomfort index) and a discomfort index D2 (humidity assumed discomfort index).

[0061] Thereby, while maintaining the discomfort index D within a comfortable range, it becomes easier to bring the room temperature of the room R1 and the humidity of the room R1 closer to the target temperature T2 and the target humidity H2, respectively.

[0062] Next, with reference to FIG. 3, an example of the air conditioning control method according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the air conditioning control method according to the present embodiment.

[0063] The measurement value acquisition unit 22 in the air conditioning control system 10 executes a measurement value acquisition step of acquiring the measured temperature T1 measured by the temperature sensor 52A and the measured humidity H1 measured by the humidity sensor 51B (step S11).

[0064] The target value acquisition unit 23 in the air conditioning control system 10 executes a target value acquisition step of acquiring the target temperature T2 of the room R1 set by the user and the target humidity H2 of the room R1 set by the user (step S12).

[0065] The control unit 21 in the air conditioning control system 10 executes a control step. In the control step, the control unit 21 controls the air conditioner 1 and the dehumidifier 2 so that the measured temperature T1 matches the target temperature T2 and the measured humidity H1 matches the target humidity H2 (step S13).

[0066] In the control step, based on the target temperature T2 acquired by the target value acquisition unit 23 and the measured humidity H1 acquired by the measured value acquisition unit 22, the control unit 21 calculates a discomfort index D1 (temperature-assumed discomfort index). Also, based on the target humidity H2 acquired by the target value acquisition unit 23 and the measured temperature T1 acquired by the measured value acquisition unit 22, the control unit 21 calculates a discomfort index D2 (humidity-assumed discomfort index) (step S14).

[0067] The control unit 21 compares the calculated discomfort index D1 (temperature-assumed discomfort index) with the discomfort index D2 (humidity-assumed discomfort index) (step S15).

[0068] When the discomfort index D1 (temperature-assumed discomfort index) is smaller than the discomfort index D2 (humidity-assumed discomfort index) (Yes in step S15), the control unit 21 sets the temperature priority mode as the control mode for each of the air conditioner 1 and the dehumidifier 2 of the air conditioning control system 10 (step S16).

[0069] In the temperature priority mode, the control unit 21 operates the air conditioner 1 in the cooling mode. For example, the control unit 21 increases the rotation speed of the fan 31A of the indoor unit 1A of the air conditioner 1 so that the air blown out from the indoor unit 1A of the air conditioner 1 becomes stronger, and at the same time, increases the rotation speed of the motor included in the compressor 43 of the outdoor unit 1B of the air conditioner 1 so that air at a temperature lower than the room temperature of the room R1 is sent out from the indoor unit 1A of the air conditioner 1 (step S17).

[0070] Also, the control unit 21 operates the dehumidifier 2 in the weak operation mode. For example, the control unit 21 decreases the rotation speed of the fan 31B or stops the rotation of the fan 31B so that the air blown out from the dehumidifier 2 becomes weaker (step S18). The measured value acquisition unit 22 continues to acquire the measured temperature T1 and the measured humidity H1 (step S11).

[0071] On the other hand, when the discomfort index D2 (humidity - assumed discomfort index) is less than or equal to the discomfort index D1 (temperature - assumed discomfort index) (No in step S15), the control unit 21 sets the humidity - priority mode as the control mode for each of the air conditioner 1 and the dehumidifier 2 in the air - conditioning control system 10 (step S19).

[0072] In the humidity - priority mode, the control unit 21 operates the air conditioner 1 in the dehumidification mode. For example, the control unit 21 increases the rotational speed of the motor included in the compressor 43 of the outdoor unit 1B of the air conditioner 1 so that the amount of condensation of the moisture contained in the air passing through the heat exchanger 41A in the indoor unit 1A of the air conditioner 1 increases (step S20).

[0073] Also, the control unit 21 operates the dehumidifier 2 in the strong - operation mode. For example, the control unit 21 increases the rotational speed of the fan 31B of the dehumidifier 2 so that the momentum of the air blown out from the dehumidifier 2 becomes stronger (step S21). The measurement - value acquisition unit 22 continues to acquire the measured temperature T1 and the measured humidity H1 (step S11).

[0074] Note that in the air - conditioning control method, the order of step S11 and step S12 may be reversed.

[0075] Next, referring to FIG. 4, another example of the air - conditioning control method according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing another example of the air - conditioning control method according to the present embodiment. FIG. 4 shows the processing performed in the air - conditioning control system 10 when the target temperature T2 is higher than the measured temperature T1.

[0076] In FIG. 4, the processing from step S31 to step S33 is the same as that from step S11 to step S13 shown in FIG. 3, so the description thereof is omitted.

[0077] In the control step, the control unit 21 compares the target temperature T2 with the measured temperature T1 (step S34). When the target temperature T2 is higher than the measured temperature T1 (Yes in step S34), the control unit 21 operates the air conditioner 1 in the dehumidification mode (step S35) and operates the dehumidifier 2 in the strong operation mode (step S36). The measured value acquisition unit 22 continues to acquire the measured temperature T1 and the measured humidity H1 (step S31).

[0078] On the other hand, when the target temperature T2 is less than or equal to the measured temperature T1 (No in step S34), the control unit 21 operates the air conditioner 1 in the cooling mode (step S37). The measured value acquisition unit 22 continues to acquire the measured temperature T1 and the measured humidity H1 (step S31).

[0079] In this way, when the target temperature T2 is higher than the measured temperature T1, by using the second dehumidification function of the dehumidifier 2 in addition to adjusting the room temperature of the room R1 by the air conditioner 1, the room temperature of the room R1 can be raised more quickly.

[0080] Note that in step S35, in addition to operating the air conditioner 1 in the dehumidification mode, the control unit 21 may, for example, stop the dehumidification function of the air conditioner 1. Specifically, the control unit 21 may, for example, stop the compressor 43 of the outdoor unit 1B of the air conditioner 1 and perform a blowing operation in which only the fan 31A of the indoor unit 1A of the air conditioner 1 operates, or may stop the operation of the air conditioner 1. Further, the control unit 21 may control the air conditioner 1 to perform a heating operation.

[0081] Also, in the present embodiment, even when the target temperature T2 is higher than the measured temperature T1, the control unit 21 may calculate the discomfort index D and control the air conditioner 1 and the dehumidifier 2 based on the discomfort index D, in the same manner as the air conditioning control method shown in FIG. 3.

[0082] In addition, in this embodiment, the storage device is included in the control unit 11. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the storage device may be provided outside the control unit 11. Further, the control unit 11, the measurement value acquisition unit 12, and the target value acquisition unit 13 may be different arithmetic elements, or may be a single arithmetic element.

[0083] In addition, in this embodiment, the discomfort index D may be calculated by a calculation method other than the formula (1).

[0084] In addition, in this embodiment, the air conditioning control system 10 may calculate an index other than the discomfort index D, and control the air conditioner 1 and the dehumidifier 2 based on the calculated index.

[0085] In addition, in this embodiment, the dehumidifier 2 is a compressor type dehumidifier. However, the dehumidifier 2 may be a dehumidifier other than the compressor type, such as a desiccant type and a hybrid type.

[0086] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the gist thereof. Further, the plurality of components disclosed in the above embodiments can be modified as appropriate. For example, a component among all the components shown in one embodiment may be added to the components of another embodiment, or some of the components among all the components shown in one embodiment may be deleted from the embodiment.

[0087] In addition, the drawings schematically show each component mainly for easy understanding of the invention. The thickness, length, number, interval, etc. of each illustrated component may be different from the actual ones for convenience in drawing creation. Further, the configuration of each component shown in the above embodiments is an example and is not particularly limited. Needless to say, various changes can be made without substantially departing from the effects of the present invention.

Industrial Applicability

[0088] The present invention can be used in the field of air conditioning systems.

Explanation of Signs

[0089] 1: Air conditioner 1A: Indoor unit 1B: Outdoor unit 2: Dehumidifier 5: Outdoor unit 10: Air conditioning control system 11, 21: Control unit 12, 22: Measurement value acquisition unit 13, 23: Target value acquisition unit 51A, 52A: Temperature sensor 51B, 52B: Humidity sensor D: Discomfort index D1: Discomfort index (temperature - assumed discomfort index) D2: Discomfort index (humidity - assumed discomfort index) H: Humidity H1: Measured humidity H2: Target humidity R1: Room T: Temperature T1: Measured temperature T2: Target temperature

Claims

1. A target value acquisition unit that acquires a target temperature and a target humidity; A measured value acquisition unit that acquires a measured temperature measured by a temperature sensor and a measured humidity measured by a humidity sensor; A control unit that controls an air conditioner having a first dehumidification function accompanied by a temperature decrease and a dehumidifier having a second dehumidification function accompanied by a temperature increase; comprising The control unit controls the air conditioner and the dehumidifier so that the measured temperature matches the target temperature and the measured humidity matches the target humidity. An air conditioning control system.

2. The control unit As control modes for the air conditioner and the dehumidifier, a temperature priority mode and A humidity priority mode in which the temperature decrease is smaller and the humidity decrease is larger than in the temperature priority mode; having The control unit sets either the temperature priority mode or the humidity priority mode as the control mode based on the target temperature, the target humidity, the measured temperature, and the measured humidity. The air conditioning control system according to claim 1.

3. The control unit sets either the temperature priority mode or the humidity priority mode as the control mode based on a discomfort index calculated using temperature and humidity. The air conditioning control system according to claim 2.

4. The control unit When the temperature hypothetical discomfort index calculated using the target temperature and the measured humidity is smaller than the humidity hypothetical discomfort index calculated using the measured temperature and the target humidity, the temperature priority mode is set as the control mode. When the humidity hypothetical discomfort index is less than or equal to the temperature hypothetical discomfort index, the humidity priority mode is set as the control mode. The air conditioning control system according to claim 3.

5. The control unit periodically executes a setting process of setting one of the temperature priority mode and the humidity priority mode as the control mode based on a comparison result between the assumed temperature discomfort index and the assumed humidity discomfort index. The air conditioning control system according to claim 4.

6. The air conditioner is As an operation mode of the first dehumidification function, a cooling mode and A dehumidification mode in which the temperature decrease is smaller and the humidity decrease is larger than in the cooling mode And has The dehumidifier is As an operation mode of the second dehumidification function, a strong operation mode and A weak operation mode in which the temperature rise and the humidity decrease are smaller than in the strong operation mode And has The control unit is When the control mode is the temperature priority mode, the air conditioner is operated in the cooling mode and the dehumidifier is operated in the weak operation mode. When the control mode is the humidity priority mode, the air conditioner is operated in the dehumidification mode and the dehumidifier is operated in the strong operation mode. The air conditioning control system according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

7. When the measured temperature is lower than the target temperature, the control unit operates the air conditioner in the dehumidification mode and operates the dehumidifier in the strong operation mode. The air conditioning control system according to claim 6.

8. A target value acquisition step of acquiring a target temperature and a target humidity, A measured value acquisition step of acquiring a measured temperature measured by a temperature sensor and a measured humidity measured by a humidity sensor, A control step of controlling an air conditioner having a first dehumidification function accompanied by a temperature decrease and a dehumidifier having a second dehumidification function accompanied by a temperature increase And has An air conditioning control method for controlling the air conditioner and the dehumidifier so that the measured temperature matches the target temperature and the measured humidity matches the target humidity in the control step.

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