Air conditioning system, air conditioning method and air conditioning program

Abstract

To provide an air conditioning system suppressing increase in power consumption of an air conditioner and achieving improvement in comfort of a target space.SOLUTION: An air conditioning system includes: an estimation part calculating an estimated load as an estimated value of a heat load in a target space for maintaining a space temperature in the target space at a current value; a setting part setting a control target of an air conditioner conditioning air in the target space; a control part controlling an operation of the air conditioner according to the control target; and a correction part deciding a correction value used for correction of the estimated load in the estimation part. The correction part measures a deviation time as a time obtained by accumulating time when temperature difference as a difference between the space temperature and the target temperature deviates from a temperature maintaining range in a monitoring period from when the temperature difference enters in the predetermined temperature maintaining range to a predetermined time length, and decides the correction value when the deviation time exceeds a predetermined threshold time.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioning system, an air conditioning method, and an air conditioning program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technology in an air conditioner control system that operates an air conditioner under normal control and energy-saving control, in which if it detects that the air conditioner's thermo-on / thermo-off time is getting longer or shorter when the room temperature and set temperature are constant, it determines that there is a change in the room's thermal load and corrects the content of the energy-saving control. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-196568 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure provides an air conditioning system, an air conditioning method, and a program that can appropriately correct the estimated value of the heat load of a target space, while controlling air conditioning based on the estimated value of the heat load, thereby suppressing an increase in the power consumption of air conditioners and improving the comfort of the target space. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The air conditioning system of the present disclosure comprises an estimation unit that calculates an estimated load, which is an estimated value of the heat load of a target space to maintain the space temperature of the target space at a current value; a setting unit that sets a control target for an air conditioner that conditions the target space based on the estimated load; a control unit that controls the operation of the air conditioner in accordance with the control target; and a correction unit that determines a correction value to be used to correct the estimated load in the estimation unit, wherein the correction unit measures a deviation time, which is the accumulated time that the temperature difference between the space temperature and the target temperature deviates from a predetermined temperature maintenance range during a monitoring period of a predetermined length from the time when the temperature difference between the space temperature and the target temperature falls within a predetermined temperature maintenance range, and when the deviation time exceeds a predetermined threshold time, the estimation unit determines the correction value to be used to calculate the estimated load.

[0006] The air conditioning method disclosed herein is an air conditioning method executed by a computer of an air conditioning system that controls the operation of an air conditioner, and includes: an estimation step of calculating an estimated load, which is an estimated value of the heat load of a target space for maintaining the space temperature of the target space at a current value; a setting step of setting a control target for an air conditioner that conditions the target space based on the estimated load; a control step of controlling the operation of the air conditioner in accordance with the control target; and a correction step of determining a correction value to be used to correct the estimated load in the estimation step, wherein the correction step measures a deviation time, which is the accumulated time that the differential temperature, which is the difference between the space temperature and the target temperature, deviates from a predetermined temperature maintenance range during a monitoring period of a predetermined length from the time when the differential temperature enters a predetermined temperature maintenance range, and when the deviation time exceeds a predetermined threshold time, a positive or negative correction value to be used to calculate the estimated load in the estimation step is determined depending on whether the differential temperature has deviated toward the higher or lower side of the temperature maintenance range.

[0007] The air conditioning program of the present disclosure is an air conditioning program that causes a computer of an air conditioning system that controls the operation of an air conditioner to execute the following steps: an estimation step of calculating an estimated load, which is an estimated value of the heat load of the target space to maintain the space temperature of the target space at a current value; a setting step of setting a control target for the air conditioner that conditions the target space based on the estimated load; a control step of controlling the operation of the air conditioner in accordance with the control target; and a correction step of determining a correction value to be used to correct the estimated load in the estimation step; wherein the correction step measures a deviation time, which is the accumulated time that the differential temperature, which is the difference between the space temperature and the target temperature, deviates from a predetermined temperature maintenance range during a monitoring period of a predetermined length from the time when the differential temperature enters a predetermined temperature maintenance range; and when the deviation time exceeds a predetermined threshold time, a positive or negative correction value to be used to calculate the estimated load in the estimation step is determined depending on whether the differential temperature has deviated toward the higher or lower side of the temperature maintenance range. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The air conditioning system, air conditioning method, and air conditioning program disclosed herein appropriately correct the estimated value of the heat load of the target space, and by controlling the air conditioning based on the estimated heat load, can suppress an increase in the power consumption of the air conditioner and improve the comfort of the target space. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an air conditioning system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioning setting device and an indoor unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a setting operation of a target air conditioning capacity in a setting unit of an air conditioning setting device. [Figure 4] A diagram showing an example of time-dependent changes in temperature difference, heat load, estimated load, and air conditioning capacity [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of correction values ​​determined by a correction unit of an air conditioning setting device. [Figure 6]A diagram showing an example of the time changes in temperature difference, heat load, estimated load, and air conditioning capacity when the estimated load deviates from the actual heat load. [Figure 7] 1 is a flowchart showing the control process steps of an air conditioning method executed by the air conditioning system 1. [Figure 8] 1 is a flowchart showing the procedure of correction processing of the air conditioning method executed by the air conditioning system 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] (Findings that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time the inventors conceived the present disclosure, there were existing techniques for controlling an air conditioner to maintain the temperature of a room at a target temperature by increasing or decreasing the air conditioning capacity during operation of the air conditioner depending on the magnitude of the temperature difference between the room temperature and the target temperature, or by switching the air conditioner on or off depending on the temperature difference. However, the amount of heat generated or lost in a target space, such as a room to be air-conditioned, can change due to factors such as people entering and exiting the target space, the on / off of electrical devices such as lighting fixtures located in the target space, the on / off of ventilation systems that introduce outside air, or changes in the amount of outside air introduced. Therefore, if the air conditioning capacity is increased or decreased or the air conditioning operation is switched on or off based solely on the temperature difference between the room temperature and the target temperature, for example, when a large number of people enter the target space, the amount of heat generated in the target space may differ significantly from the cooling capacity of the air conditioner, resulting in an increase in the frequency of increasing or decreasing the air conditioning capacity or switching the air conditioning operation on or off. Such increases and decreases in air conditioning capacity and increases in the frequency of air conditioning on / off operation can lead to increased power consumption due to, for example, frequent increases and decreases in the rotation speed of the compressor motor equipped in the air conditioner, and can also cause frequent changes in the room temperature in the target space, reducing comfort. As described above, with conventional air conditioner control based solely on the difference between the room temperature and the target temperature, the amount of heat generated and lost in the target space is not constant, which can increase the frequency of increases and decreases in air conditioning capacity and on / off of air conditioning operation, making it difficult to suppress increases in air conditioner power consumption and improve comfort in the target space. The inventors discovered this problem with the conventional technology and have come to form the subject of the present disclosure in order to solve this problem. Therefore, the present disclosure provides an air conditioning system, an air conditioning method, and a program that can appropriately correct the estimated value of the heat load of the target space, while controlling the air conditioning based on the estimated heat load, thereby suppressing an increase in the power consumption of the air conditioner and improving the comfort of the target space.

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, in some cases, more detailed explanation than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed explanation of already well-known matters or redundant explanation of substantially the same configuration may be omitted. The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0012] (Embodiment) An embodiment will be described below. [1. Configuration] [1-1. Air conditioning system configuration] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioning system 1 according to an embodiment. The air conditioning system 1 is a system that conditions a target space S, which is a space to be air-conditioned provided inside a building H such as a residence or a facility. The target space S is, for example, a room provided inside the building H. Hereinafter, the outside of the building H will be referred to as the outdoors.

[0013] The air conditioning system 1 includes an air conditioning setting device 2, an air conditioner 3 that conditions the target space S in accordance with instructions from the air conditioning setting device 2, a communication relay device 4, a remote controller 5 which is a terminal device operated by a user P, and an indoor sensor 6.

[0014] The communication relay device 4 includes a transceiver and relays communications between the devices located within the target space S, as well as between the devices and external devices connected to a communication network NW that includes the air conditioning setting device 2. The communication network NW may be configured using a public line network, a dedicated line, or other communication circuits. The communication network NW may be, for example, a communication network that constitutes the Internet. The communication relay device 4 may be, for example, a WLAN router that combines the functions of an access point that establishes a wireless LAN through wireless communication with the devices located within the target space S, and the function of a router that communicatively connects the devices to external devices connected to the communication network NW.

[0015] The indoor sensor 6 is a temperature and humidity sensor that measures the humidity in the target space S and the space temperature Tc, which is the temperature in the target space S. The indoor sensor 6 is connected to other devices via the communication relay device 4 so as to be able to communicate with them.

[0016] The air conditioner 3 includes an indoor unit 3a disposed in the target space S and an outdoor unit 3b disposed outdoors. The indoor unit 3a of the air conditioner 3 communicates directly with a remote controller 5 and also communicates with other devices via a communication relay device 4.

[0017] The outdoor unit 3b includes, for example, a compressor 301 that compresses a refrigerant, and a compressor motor 302 that is a three-phase motor that drives the compressor 301. Note that the air conditioner 3 is not limited to one that includes the compressor 301, and may be one that operates on any principle that can cool and / or heat a target space.

[0018] The indoor unit 3a receives instructions from a remote controller 5 operated by a person P who is a user, and transmits information related to air conditioning operation to the remote controller 5. The indoor unit 3a also controls the operation of the air conditioner 3 in accordance with instructions from the remote controller 5 and instructions received from the air conditioning setting device 2.

[0019] The instructions that the indoor unit 3a receives from the remote controller 5 may include instructions to start and end the air conditioning operation, instructions as to which air conditioning mode to operate in among cooling mode, heating mode, and dehumidification mode, instructions for the target temperature Tt for the target space S, and instructions as to which operating mode to operate in among energy saving mode which prioritizes low power consumption and comfort mode which prioritizes comfort by suppressing temperature fluctuations in the target space S.

[0020] The information transmitted by the indoor unit 3a to the remote controller 5 may include, for example, information on the humidity and space temperature Tc in the target space S acquired by the indoor unit 3a from the indoor sensor 6, information on the current operating mode of the air conditioner 3, and information received by the indoor unit 3a from the air conditioning setting device 2.

[0021] The remote controller 5 is a terminal device that allows a user P to give instructions to the air conditioner 3 and obtain information about the air conditioner 3. The remote controller 5 includes a computer, a display device such as a liquid crystal display device, and operation buttons. In accordance with conventional technology, the remote controller 5 obtains settings such as the operating mode and target temperature Tt for the air conditioner 3 set by the user P through a link between the display screen on the display device and operations performed by the user P on the operation buttons, and transmits these settings to the indoor unit 3a. The remote controller 5 also displays information received from the indoor unit 3a on the display device.

[0022] A ventilation device 7 that supplies air to the target space S may be arranged in the target space S. The ventilation device 7 communicates with other devices via the communication relay device 4. The ventilation device 7 may provide information on whether the ventilation operation is on or off and information on the ventilation volume (e.g., the volume of air supplied) to the other devices via the communication relay device 4. The ventilation device 7 may further measure the power consumption of the ventilation device 7 and provide information on the measured power consumption to the other devices via the communication relay device 4.

[0023] An outdoor sensor 8 that detects the humidity and temperature of the outdoor air, i.e., the outdoor temperature To, is disposed on the exterior wall of the building H. The outdoor sensor 8 is connected to other devices via a communication relay device 4 so as to be able to communicate with them.

[0024] The target space S can be illuminated by the lighting device 9 and natural light entering through a window WD provided in the target space S. The lighting device 9 can provide information on whether the lighting is on or off and information on power consumption to other devices via the communication relay device 4.

[0025] A refrigerator 10, a television 11, and a personal computer 12 may be placed in the target space S. The refrigerator 10, the television 11, and the personal computer 12 are configured to provide information on whether the refrigerator 10, the television 11, and the personal computer 12 are each operational on / off and power consumption information to other devices via the communication relay device 4. Here, the refrigerator 10, the television 11, and the personal computer 12 are examples of electrical devices that may be placed in the target space S. The target space S is not limited to the refrigerator 10, the television 11, and the personal computer 12, and any other electrical devices may be placed therein.

[0026] The target space S is equipped with a door DR that serves as an entrance / exit for a person P to enter and exit the target space S. A human presence sensor 13 is provided on the top of the door DR to detect the entry and exit of the person P through the door DR. The human presence sensor 13 detects the entry of the person P into the target space S and the exit of the person P from the target space S, and can provide the detected information to other devices via the communication relay device 4.

[0027] [1-2. Configuration of air conditioning setting device] Next, the configuration of the air conditioning setting device 2 will be described. The air conditioning setting device 2 can be realized, for example, as a server device connected to a communication network NW. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning setting device 2 and the indoor unit 3a of the air conditioner 3. The air conditioning setting device 2 includes a first processor 20, a first memory 21, and a first communication device 22. The first memory 21 is configured by a volatile and / or non-volatile semiconductor memory and / or a hard disk device. The first communication device 22 is a transceiver for the first processor 20 to communicate via the communication network NW. The first processor 20 communicates with each device provided in the building H and the target space S, including the indoor unit 3a of the air conditioner 3, via the communication network NW and the communication relay device 4 using the first communication device 22.

[0028] The first processor 20 is a computer equipped with a processor such as a CPU. The first processor 20 may have a ROM in which programs and data are written, and / or a RAM for temporarily storing data. The first processor 20 has, as functional elements or units, an information acquisition unit 24, an estimation unit 25, a setting unit 26, and a correction unit 27.

[0029] These functional elements of the first processor 20 are realized, for example, by the first processor 20, which is a computer, executing a first program 23 stored in a first memory 21. The first program 23 can be stored in any computer-readable storage medium. Alternatively, all or part of the functional elements of the first processor 20 can be configured by hardware each including one or more electronic circuit components.

[0030] The information acquisition unit 24 acquires various setting information set by a person P, who is a user, by operating the remote controller 5 from the indoor unit 3a of the air conditioner 3. As will be described later, each time the indoor unit 3a of the air conditioner 3 receives some setting information from the remote controller 5, it transmits the received setting information to the air conditioning setting device 2. The setting information may include a target temperature Tt for the space temperature Tc of the target space S, a designated air conditioning mode (cooling mode, heating mode, or dehumidification mode), and a designated operating mode (energy saving mode or comfort mode).

[0031] The information acquisition unit 24 also acquires various types of information from the devices and sensors provided in the building H and the target space S. Specifically, the information acquisition unit 24 repeatedly acquires the space temperature Tc of the target space S from the indoor sensor 6 at predetermined time intervals. The information acquisition unit 24 also acquires on / off information about the ventilation operation from the ventilation device 7, and repeatedly acquires information about the ventilation volume (e.g., the amount of air supplied) after the ventilation operation is turned on at predetermined time intervals. The information acquisition unit 24 also repeatedly acquires the outside air temperature To from the outdoor sensor 8 at predetermined time intervals. The information acquisition unit 24 also acquires on / off information about the operation of the refrigerator 10, television 11, and personal computer 12 provided in the target space S, and repeatedly acquires information about the power consumption after the operation is turned on at predetermined time intervals. The information acquisition unit 24 further receives information about people P entering the target space S and people P exiting the target space S from the human presence sensor 13, and calculates the number of people P in the target space S.

[0032] The estimation unit 25 repeatedly calculates an estimated load Q, which is an estimate of the current thermal load Qr of the target space S, at predetermined time intervals based on various information acquired by the information acquisition unit 24. Here, the thermal load Qr of the target space S refers to the amount of heat per hour (units: kcal / h or kW / h) that should be provided to or removed from the target space S in order to maintain the space temperature Tc of the target space S at its current value. Furthermore, the thermal load Qr when heat is provided to the target space S is referred to as a heating load, and the thermal load Qr when heat is removed from the target space S is referred to as a cooling load. In this embodiment, the thermal load Qr and estimated load Q, which are cooling loads, are represented by positive numbers, and the thermal load Qr and estimated load Q, which are heating loads, are represented by negative numbers.

[0033] When calculating the estimated load Q, the estimation unit 25 may handle one or more of the following factors as the thermal load Qr: outdoor air load, lighting load, equipment load, and human body load. The outdoor air load is a load generated by heat exchange between the target space S and outdoor air. Outdoor air is introduced into the target space S by the ventilation device 7. The estimation unit 25 may calculate, as the outdoor air load, a thermal load required to eliminate fluctuations in the space temperature tc that may occur due to the exchange of air in the target space S with outdoor outdoor air, based on information acquired by the information acquisition unit 24, including the current outdoor air humidity, outdoor air temperature To, humidity of the target space S, space temperature Tc, and the current hourly air supply rate of the ventilation device 7. In addition to the outdoor air introduced by the ventilation device 7, the estimation unit 25 may also add to the outdoor air load a load due to natural ventilation (such as drafts) that occurs depending on the degree of sealing of the target space S. The hourly ventilation rate of natural ventilation in the target space S may be measured in advance and stored in the first memory 21.

[0034] The lighting load is the amount of heat generated in the target space S by the lighting device 9 installed in the target space S. The estimation unit 25 calculates the lighting load as, for example, a value obtained by multiplying the current power consumption of the lighting device 9 acquired by the information acquisition unit 24 by the heat loss of the lighting device 9 (the amount of heat generated in the target space S per unit of power consumption).

[0035] The appliance load is the amount of heat generated in the target space S by electrical appliances other than the lighting device 9 arranged in the target space S. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the electrical appliances are the refrigerator 10, the television 11, and the personal computer 12. For example, the estimation unit 25 calculates the appliance load generated by each of the refrigerator 10, the television 11, and the personal computer 12 by multiplying the current power consumption of each of the refrigerator 10, the television 11, and the personal computer 12 acquired by the information acquisition unit 24 by the heat loss (amount of heat generated in the target space S per unit of power consumption) of each of the refrigerator 10, the television 11, and the personal computer 12. Then, the sum of these calculated appliance loads is regarded as the appliance load in the target space S.

[0036] The human body load can be calculated as the thermal load for eliminating fluctuations in the space temperature tc caused by the amount of heat generated or absorbed in the target space S by the bodies of people P present in the target space S. The estimation unit 25 can calculate the human body load, for example, based on the number of people P in the target space S calculated by the estimation unit 25 and the predetermined latent heat amount and sensible heat amount per person.

[0037] The estimation unit 25 calculates the current outdoor air load, lighting load, equipment load, and human body load, for example, at a predetermined time interval (for example, every 5 minutes), and sets the sum of these loads as the current estimated load Q for the target space S.

[0038] The above-mentioned outdoor air load, lighting load, equipment load, and human body load are examples of loads that can be factors in the thermal load Qr, and when calculating the estimated load Q, the estimation unit 25 can also include loads other than the outdoor air load, lighting load, equipment load, and human body load in the estimated load Q. For example, the estimation unit 25 may add to the estimated load Q the amount of heat exchanged between the target space S and the outdoor air via a wall that separates the target space S, as a load other than the outdoor air load, lighting load, equipment load, and human body load.

[0039] The setting unit 26 sets a control target for the air conditioner 3 that conditions the target space S based on the estimated load Q. In particular, in this embodiment, the setting unit 26 sets a target air conditioning capacity W, which is a target value of the air conditioning capacity that the air conditioner 3 should achieve in the air conditioning operation of the target space S. Then, the setting unit 26 transmits the set target air conditioning capacity W to the indoor unit 3a of the air conditioner 3, and instructs the indoor unit 3a to achieve the target air conditioning capacity W.

[0040] Specifically, the setting unit 26 acquires the current space temperature Tc of the target space S from the information acquisition unit 24 at predetermined time intervals tp (for example, every 5 minutes), and acquires the current estimated load Q of the target space S from the estimation unit 25. Then, based on the acquired current space temperature Tc and estimated load Q, the target air conditioning capacity is set at the predetermined time intervals tp.

[0041] 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the setting operation of the target air conditioning capacity W in the setting unit 26. The setting unit 26 determines the target air conditioning capacity W based on the estimated load Q in accordance with the value range of the temperature difference ΔT, which is the value obtained by subtracting the target temperature Tt from the space temperature Tc. The value range of the temperature difference ΔT is divided into, for example, a temperature maintenance range Rm, a first adjustment range R1, and a second adjustment range R2.

[0042] The temperature maintenance range Rm is a value range of the temperature difference ΔT that should be targeted in air conditioning operation. In this embodiment, the temperature maintenance range Rm for the temperature difference ΔT is defined as a value range that is equal to or less than a predetermined first threshold value Th1 and equal to or greater than a predetermined second threshold value Th2 that is smaller than the first threshold value Th1. That is, in this embodiment, the temperature maintenance range Rm is defined as a range in which the first threshold value Th1 and the second threshold value Th2 are the upper and lower limit values, respectively.

[0043] In this embodiment, for example, the first threshold value Th1 and the second threshold value Th2 are positive and negative numbers, respectively. That is, the temperature maintenance range Rm is a value range of width (Th1 + |Th2|) that includes ΔT = 0 (a state in which the space temperature Tc is the same as the target temperature Tt). As an example, Th1 can be set to 0.5°C, and Th2 can be set to -0.5°C.

[0044] The first adjustment range R1 is a range of values ​​above a first threshold value Th1, which is the upper limit of the temperature maintenance range Rm, and the second adjustment range R2 is a range of values ​​below a second threshold value Th2, which is the lower limit of the temperature maintenance range Rm.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 3, the setting unit 26 determines the target air conditioning capacity W in the following manner depending on the value range of the temperature difference ΔT. First, when the temperature difference ΔT is within the temperature maintenance range Rm, the setting unit 26 sets the current estimated load Q calculated by the estimation unit 25 as the target air conditioning capacity W (that is, W=Q).

[0046] As a result, in the air conditioning system 1, when the temperature difference, which is the value obtained by subtracting the target temperature Tt from the space temperature Tc, is within the temperature maintenance range, the air conditioner 3 can be controlled by the indoor unit 3a, which will be described later, to have an air conditioning capacity that is the same as the estimated load Q, which is an estimated value of the heat load Qr of the target space S, thereby reducing the frequency of changes to the air conditioning capacity and turning the air conditioning operation on and off when maintaining the space temperature Tc of the target space S at the target temperature Tt, and suppressing an increase in the power consumption of the air conditioner 3. Furthermore, because the frequency of turning the air conditioning operation on and off is reduced, the repeated rise and fall of the space temperature Tc that accompanies turning the air conditioning operation on and off is suppressed, and the comfort of the target space S can be improved.

[0047] In addition, when the temperature difference ΔT is not within the temperature maintenance range Rm, i.e., when it is in the first adjustment range R1 or the second adjustment range R2, the setting unit 26 sets the target air conditioning capacity W to a value obtained by adding or subtracting an adjustment amount determined according to the temperature difference ΔT to or from the estimated load Q so that the temperature difference ΔT changes toward the temperature maintenance range Rm. As a result, when the temperature difference ΔT is not within the temperature maintenance range Rm, the target air conditioning capacity W is adjusted around the estimated load Q, so that the space temperature Tc can be smoothly brought closer to the target temperature Tt without excessively changing the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 3.

[0048] 3, specifically, when the temperature difference ΔT is within a first adjustment range R1 that exceeds a first threshold value Th1, which is the upper limit of the temperature maintenance range Rm, the setting unit 26 determines the value obtained by adding the adjustment amount α to the estimated load Q as the target air conditioning capacity W. That is, W = Q + α.

[0049] Furthermore, when the temperature is within the first adjustment range R1 that exceeds the first threshold value Th1, which is the upper limit of the temperature maintenance range Rm, the setting unit 26 determines the value obtained by subtracting the adjustment amount β from the estimated load Q as the target air conditioning capacity W. That is, W=Q−β.

[0050] As described above, in this embodiment, the estimated load Q in the case of a cooling load is expressed as a positive number, and the estimated load Q in the case of a heating load is expressed as a negative number. Therefore, when the estimated load Q is a cooling load and the air conditioner 3 performs a cooling operation, the adjustment amounts α and β are positive numbers, and when the estimated load Q is a heating load and the air conditioner performs a heating operation, the adjustment amounts α and β are negative numbers. Furthermore, the absolute values ​​of the adjustment amounts α and β may be the same or different when the estimated load Q is a cooling load and when it is a heating load.

[0051] 4 is a diagram showing an example of time changes in the temperature difference ΔT, the actual heat load Qr of the target space S, the estimated load Q calculated by the estimator 25, and the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 when the estimated load Q is a cooling load and the air conditioner 3 is operating in cooling mode. The information acquisition unit 24 of the air conditioning setting device 2 samples the space temperature Tc at predetermined time intervals to calculate the temperature difference ΔT, and the estimator 25 calculates the estimated load Q, which is an estimate of the heat load Qr, at the predetermined time intervals. The setting unit 26 also sets a target air conditioning capacity W at predetermined time intervals tp and transmits the set target air conditioning capacity W to the indoor unit 3a of the air conditioner 3. The air conditioner 3 operates to achieve the received target air conditioning capacity W, and as a result, operates at the air conditioning capacity Wr.

[0052] In Fig. 4A, the vertical axis represents the temperature difference ΔT, and the horizontal axis represents time. Graph G1 in Fig. 4A shows the change in temperature difference ΔT over time. In Fig. 4A, the left side of the figure shows a first adjustment range R1, a temperature maintenance range Rm, and a second adjustment range R2 of the temperature difference ΔT. The first threshold value Th1 is a positive number, and the second threshold value Th2 is a negative number.

[0053] The target temperature Tt is not changed within the time range shown in Figure 4. Therefore, the space temperature Tc of the target space S also changes in the same manner as in graph G1. Figure 4(A) shows an axis of the space temperature Tc on the right side of the figure, which corresponds to the axis of the temperature difference ΔT on the left side of the figure.

[0054] In FIG. 4B, the vertical axis represents the values ​​of the estimated load Q, the thermal load Qr, and the air conditioning capacity Wr, and the horizontal axis represents the same time as the horizontal axis in FIG. 4A. Graph G2 (shown as a dashed line) in FIG. 4B shows the change over time in the actual thermal load Qr, and graph G3 (shown as a dashed line) shows the change over time in the estimated load Q calculated by the estimation unit 25. Graph G4 (shown as a solid line) shows the change over time in the air conditioning capacity Wr. As shown in FIG. 4B, in the illustrated example, the estimated load Q (graph G3) calculated by the estimation unit 25 is assumed to be an appropriately estimated value that is approximately the same as the actual thermal load Qr (graph G2). In other words, (Q≒Qr).

[0055] Referring to FIG. 4A, at time t1, the temperature difference ΔT is within the first adjustment range R1 (graph G1). Therefore, the setting unit 26 sets the target air conditioning capacity W to a value obtained by adding the adjustment amount α to the estimated load Q. As a result, as shown in FIG. 4B, the air conditioning capacity Wr (graph G4) of the air conditioner 3 at time t1 is controlled to a value greater than the estimated load Q (graph G3) by the adjustment amount α. In other words, (Wr ≈ Q + α). As a result, the target space S loses a larger amount of heat than the thermal load Qr, and the temperature difference ΔT decreases over time after time t1 (graph G1).

[0056] The above state (Wr≈Q+α) continues until the temperature difference ΔT reaches the temperature maintenance range Rm at time t2. At time t2, when the temperature difference ΔT reaches the temperature maintenance range Rm (graph G1), the setting unit 26 sets the target air conditioning capacity W to the same value as the estimated load Q. As a result, as shown in FIG. 4B, after a slight delay from time t2, the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 (graph G4) becomes the same as the estimated load Q (graph G3). In other words, (Wr ≈ Q). As a result, the target space S is cooled with the air conditioning capacity Wr that is the same as the heat load Qr for maintaining the space temperature Tc at the current value, and the temperature difference ΔT is maintained within the temperature maintenance range Rm from time t2 onwards.

[0057] However, if the estimated load Q calculated by the estimation unit 25 deviates from the actual thermal load Qr, the changes over time in the temperature difference ΔT, the thermal load Qr, and the air conditioning capacity Wr may differ from those shown in Fig. 4. For this reason, in this embodiment, a correction value used to calculate the estimated load Q is determined depending on the manner in which the space temperature Tc changes over time.

[0058] The correction unit 27 determines a correction value used by the estimation unit 25 to correct the estimated load Q. In this embodiment, the correction value is determined in accordance with the manner of change over time of the temperature difference ΔT after the temperature difference ΔT enters the temperature maintenance range Rm.

[0059] Specifically, the correction unit 27 measures a deviation time tdev, which is the accumulated time during which the temperature difference ΔT deviates from the temperature maintenance range Rm during a monitoring period Pob having a predetermined time length tob, from the time when the temperature difference ΔT enters the temperature maintenance range Rm. If the deviation time tdev exceeds a predetermined threshold time tth, the correction unit 27 determines a correction value that the estimator 25 uses to correct the estimated load Q.

[0060] More specifically, the correction unit 27 determines a correction value for correcting the absolute value of the estimated load Q to be larger or smaller depending on whether the estimated load Q is a cooling load or a heating load and whether the temperature difference ΔT has deviated from the temperature maintenance range Rm toward the higher or lower side. Then, the correction unit 27 notifies the estimation unit 25 of the determined correction value. The estimation unit 25 corrects the estimated load Q using the notified correction value and sends the corrected estimated load Q to the setting unit 26.

[0061] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the correction value determined by the correction unit 27. As shown in FIG. For example, when the estimated load Q is a cooling load, and the temperature difference ΔT exceeds the first threshold value Th1 for a deviation time tdev that exceeds the threshold time tth, that is, when the air conditioning state is insufficient cooling, where the temperature is excessively hotter than the target temperature Tt, the correction unit 27 determines the upward correction value γ so that the absolute value of the estimated load Q is corrected to a larger value. As described above, the thermal load Qr and the estimated load Q are assumed to be positive numbers when the load is a cooling load, so in the above case, the upward correction value γ is a positive number. The estimator 25 corrects the estimated load Q by adding the upward correction value γ to the estimated load Q.

[0062] Furthermore, when the estimated load Q is a cooling load and the temperature difference ΔT is less than the second threshold value Th2 over a deviation time tdev that exceeds the threshold time tth, that is, when the air conditioning state is excessive cooling, where the temperature is excessively colder than the target temperature Tt, the correction unit 27 determines the downward correction value ε so that the absolute value of the estimated load Q is corrected to a smaller value. Because the estimated load Q is a cooling load, the estimated load Q and the downward correction value ε are positive numbers. The estimator 25 corrects the estimated load Q by subtracting the downward correction value ε from the estimated load Q.

[0063] Furthermore, when the estimated load Q is a heating load and the temperature difference ΔT exceeds the first threshold value Th1 for a deviation time tdev that exceeds the threshold time tth, that is, when the air conditioning state is excessive heating, where the temperature is excessively hotter than the target temperature Tt, the correction unit 27 determines the downward correction value ε so that the absolute value of the estimated load Q is corrected to a smaller value. As described above, the thermal load Qr and the estimated load Q are negative numbers when the load is a heating load, so in the above case, the estimated load Q and the downward correction value ε are negative numbers. The estimator 25 corrects the estimated load Q by subtracting the downward correction value ε from the estimated load Q.

[0064] Furthermore, when the estimated load Q is a heating load and the temperature difference ΔT is less than the second threshold value Th2 over a deviation time tdev that exceeds the threshold time tth, that is, when the air conditioning state is insufficient heating, where the temperature is excessively colder than the target temperature Tt, the correction unit 27 determines the upward correction value γ so that the absolute value of the estimated load Q is corrected to a larger value. As described above, since the estimated load Q is a heating load, the estimated load Q and the upward correction value γ are negative numbers. The estimator 25 corrects the estimated load Q by adding the upward correction value γ to the estimated load Q.

[0065] 5, the upward correction value γ and the downward correction value ε may each be a predetermined fixed value. The absolute value of the upward correction value γ during a cooling load may be different from the absolute value of the upward correction value γ during a heating load, and the absolute value of the downward correction value ε during a cooling load may be different from the absolute value of the downward correction value ε during a heating load.

[0066] Furthermore, when the monitoring period Pob includes a period in which the temperature difference ΔT exceeds the first threshold value Th1 of the temperature maintenance range Rm and deviates toward the higher temperature side, and a period in which it falls below the second threshold value Th2 and deviates toward the lower temperature side, the correction unit 27 can measure the cumulative time of the deviation period toward the higher temperature side and the cumulative time of the deviation period toward the lower temperature side separately, set the longer cumulative time as the deviation time tdev, and determine the correction value based on the deviation direction for the longer cumulative time (whether ΔT exceeded Tth1 or fell below Tth2).

[0067] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of time variations in the temperature difference ΔT, the thermal load Qr, the estimated load Q, and the air conditioning capacity Wr when the estimated load Q calculated by the estimation unit 25 deviates from the actual thermal load Qr, and corresponds to the above-mentioned Fig. 4. In Fig. 6, as in Fig. 4, the thermal load Qr and the estimated load Q are cooling loads, and the air conditioner 3 is operating in cooling mode.

[0068] The graph G11 shown in (A) of FIG. 6 shows the time change of the differential temperature ΔT, and the graphs G21, G31, and G41 shown in (B) of FIG. 6 show the time changes of the actual heat load Qr, the estimated load Q calculated by the estimator 25, and the air conditioning capacity Wr, respectively. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the estimated load Q (graph G31) calculated by the estimator 25 deviates downward (in the direction of smaller values) from the actual heat load Qr (graph G21). That is, (Q < Qr). However, the difference between the estimated load Q and the actual heat load Qr is assumed to be smaller than the adjustment amount α.

[0069] Referring to (A) of FIG. 6, at time t3, the differential temperature ΔT is within the first adjustment range R1 (graph G11). Therefore, the setting unit 26 sets the target air conditioning capacity W to a value obtained by adding the adjustment amount α to the estimated load Q. As a result, as shown in (B) of FIG. 6, the air conditioning capacity Wr (graph G41) of the air conditioner 3 at time t3 is controlled to a value larger than the estimated load Q by the amount of the adjustment amount α, and (Wr ≒ Q + α > Qr). Thus, the target space S is deprived of a larger amount of heat than the heat load Qr, and the differential temperature ΔT decreases with time after time t3 (graph G11).

[0070] The state of (Wr ≒ Q + α > Qr) continues until the differential temperature ΔT reaches the temperature maintenance range Rm at time t4. When the differential temperature ΔT reaches the temperature maintenance range Rm at time t4 (graph G11), the correction unit 27 sets a monitoring period Pob of a predetermined time length from time t4 and monitors the deviation of the differential temperature ΔT from the temperature maintenance range Rm. Further, the setting unit 26 sets the target air conditioning capacity W to the same value as the estimated load Q in response to the fact that the differential temperature ΔT has reached the temperature maintenance range Rm at time t4. As a result, as shown in (B) of FIG. 4, after a slight delay from time t4, the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 becomes the same as the estimated load Q. That is, (Wr ≒ Q < Qr). Thus, the amount of heat taken away from the target space S becomes less than the heat load Qr, and the differential temperature ΔT rises with time after a slight delay time from time t4 (graph G11).

[0071] As a result, at time t5, the temperature difference ΔT deviates from the temperature maintenance range Rm toward the higher temperature side and enters the first adjustment range R1. The correction unit 27 detects this deviation and begins measuring the deviation time tdev. Furthermore, because the temperature difference ΔT has entered the first adjustment range R1, the setting unit 26 sets the target air conditioning capacity W to a value obtained by adding the adjustment amount α to the estimated load Q at time t5. As a result, after a slight delay from time t5, the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 (graph G41) becomes (Wr ≒ Q + α > Qr). As a result, after a slight delay from time t5, the temperature difference ΔT decreases over time and, at time t6, again reaches the temperature maintenance range Rm (graph G11). In response, the correction unit 27 suspends measurement of the deviation time tdev. At this point, the deviation time tdev is the time length td1 from time t5 to t6.

[0072] After time t6, the same operations as those from time t4 to time t6 are repeated. As a result, after time t4, the temperature difference ΔT repeatedly reaches the temperature maintenance range Rm and deviates from the temperature maintenance range Rm to the higher temperature side.

[0073] At time t7, when the temperature difference ΔT deviates from the temperature maintenance range Rm again, the correction unit 27 resumes measurement of the deviation time tdev, which was previously suspended, and again suspends measurement of the deviation time tdev at time t8, when the temperature difference ΔT reaches the temperature maintenance range Rm. At this point, the deviation time tdev is equal to the sum of the time length td1 from time t5 to t6 and the time length td2 from time t7 to t8 (td1+td2). At time t9, when the monitoring period Pob ends, the correction unit 27 sets the deviation time tdev to its current value, i.e., the value (td1+td2) when measurement was suspended at time t8.

[0074] When the measured deviation time tdev exceeds a predetermined threshold time tth, the correction unit 27 determines a correction value that the estimation unit 25 will use to correct the estimated load Q thereafter. Here, it is assumed that the tdev calculated as described above exceeds the threshold time tth.

[0075] As described above, when the estimated load Q is a cooling load and the temperature difference ΔT exceeds the first threshold value Th1 for the deviation time tdev that exceeds the threshold time tth, that is, when the air conditioning state is insufficient cooling where the temperature is excessively hotter than the target temperature Tt, the correction unit 27 determines the upward correction value γ so that the estimation unit 25 corrects the absolute value of the estimated load Q to a larger value (see FIG. 5). The correction unit 27 notifies the estimation unit 25 of the determined upward correction value γ.

[0076] The estimating unit 25, which has been notified of the upward correction value γ from the correcting unit 27, corrects the estimated load Q by adding the upward correction value γ to the value of the estimated load Q when calculating the estimated load Q thereafter. Then, the estimating unit 25 sends the corrected estimated load Q to the setting unit 26.

[0077] The corrected estimated load Q is closer to the actual thermal load Qr by the amount of the upward correction value γ compared to the pre-correction estimated load Q, and the deviation from the thermal load Qr decreases. Therefore, the next time the temperature difference ΔT enters the temperature maintenance range Rm, the setting unit 26 will set the corrected estimated load Q as the target air conditioning capacity W, and the deviation of the temperature difference ΔT from the temperature maintenance range Rm to the higher temperature side will disappear, or the deviation time tdev in the next monitoring period Pob will be shorter than before the correction.

[0078] Note that even when the corrected estimated load Q is used, if the deviation time tdev exceeds the threshold time tth during the monitoring period Pob after the temperature difference ΔT enters the temperature maintenance range Rm, the correction unit 27 further determines an upward correction value γ and notifies the determined upward correction value γ to the estimation unit 25. In this case, the estimation unit 25 can correct the estimated load Q by cumulatively using all the upward correction values ​​γ notified up to that point (i.e., by adding all the upward correction values ​​γ notified up to that point to the estimated load Q).

[0079] This makes it possible to improve the accuracy of the estimated load Q relative to the actual heat load Qr over time, and ultimately eliminate the deviation of the temperature difference ΔT from the temperature maintenance range Rm to the higher temperature side.

[0080] [1-3. Indoor unit configuration] Next, the configuration of the indoor unit 3a will be described. 2, the indoor unit 3a includes an air conditioning control device 30, an indoor blower fan 31, and an indoor expansion valve 32. The indoor blower fan 31 rotates under the control of the air conditioning control device 30, and sends air to a heat exchanger included in the indoor unit 3a. The indoor expansion valve 32 is a valve that adjusts the flow rate of refrigerant to a heat exchanger provided in the indoor unit 3a. The opening degree of the indoor expansion valve 32 is adjusted under the control of the air conditioning control device 30.

[0081] The air conditioning control device 30 operates the air conditioner 3 in one of the air conditioning modes, cooling mode, heating mode, and dehumidification mode, in accordance with instructions from the remote controller 5. The air conditioning control device 30 also operates the air conditioner 3 in one of the operation modes, energy saving mode and comfort mode, in accordance with instructions from the remote controller 5. When the air conditioning control device 30 receives an instruction from the remote controller 5, it also transmits the received instruction to the air conditioning setting device 2.

[0082] In this embodiment, in particular, the air conditioning control device 30 controls the frequency of the three-phase AC current supplied to the compressor motor 302 of the outdoor unit 3b so as to realize the target air conditioning capacity W received from the air conditioning setting device 2, and also controls air conditioning-related mechanisms such as the indoor blower fan 31 and the indoor expansion valve 32.

[0083] The air conditioning control device 30 includes a second processor 33, a second memory 34, and a second communication device 35. The second memory 34 is configured by a volatile and / or non-volatile semiconductor memory or the like. The second communication device 35 includes a transceiver for the second processor 33 to communicate wirelessly with the remote controller 5, and a transceiver for the second processor 33 to communicate with each device provided in the target space S and external devices on the communication network NW.

[0084] The second processor 33 is a computer equipped with a processor such as a CPU. The second processor 33 may have a ROM in which programs and data are written, and / or a RAM for temporarily storing data. The second processor 33 has a communication unit 37 and a control unit 38 as functional elements or units.

[0085] These functional elements of the second processor 33 are realized, for example, by the second processor 33, which is a computer, executing a second program 36 stored in a second memory 34. The second program 36 can be stored in any computer-readable storage medium. Alternatively, all or part of the functional elements of the second processor 33 can be configured by hardware including one or more electronic circuit components.

[0086] The communication unit 37 controls the second communication device 35, receives instructions from the remote controller 5, and transmits them to the control unit 38. The communication unit 37 also receives the target air conditioning capacity W from the air conditioning setting device 2 and transmits them to the control unit 38. Every time the communication unit 37 receives an instruction or setting information from the remote controller 5, it transmits the received instruction and setting information to the air conditioning setting device 2. The communication unit 37 may also forward messages received from the air conditioning setting device 2 to the remote controller 5. The remote controller 5 displays the received message on a display device provided in the remote controller 5, according to conventional technology.

[0087] The control unit 38 starts or ends the air conditioning operation of the air conditioner 3 in accordance with instructions from the remote controller 5. The control unit 38 also operates the air conditioner 3 in the air conditioning mode and operation mode instructed by the remote controller 5. The control unit 38 also controls the frequency of the three-phase AC current supplied to the compressor motor of the outdoor unit 3b so as to realize the target air conditioning capacity W received from the air conditioning setting device 2, and controls air conditioning-related mechanisms such as the indoor blower fan 31 and the indoor expansion valve 32.

[0088] The above frequency for realizing the target air conditioning capacity W can be determined in advance and stored in the second memory 34, for example, in correspondence with various combinations of the target air conditioning capacity W and the outdoor air temperature To where the outdoor unit 3b is installed.

[0089] [2. Operation] Next, the procedure of the operation of the air conditioning system 1 will be described. 7 and 8 are flowcharts showing the processing steps of the air conditioning method executed by the first processor 20 of the air conditioning setting device 2 and the second processor 33 of the indoor unit 3a, which are computers included in the air conditioning system 1. Here, the first program 23 executed by the first processor 20 of the air conditioning setting device 2 and the second program 36 executed by the second processor 33 of the air conditioning control device 30 of the indoor unit 3a are the air conditioning programs in this disclosure.

[0090] The air conditioning method executed in the air conditioning system 1 is composed of a control process executed mainly by the estimation unit 25, the setting unit 26 of the air conditioning setting device 2, and the control unit 38 of the air conditioning control device 30, and a correction process executed mainly by the correction unit 27 of the air conditioning setting device 2. 7 and 8 are flowcharts of the control process and the correction process, respectively.

[0091] First, the control process shown in FIG. 7 will be described. The control process shown in Figure 7 starts when the indoor unit 3a receives an instruction to start air conditioning operation from the remote controller 5, and is repeatedly executed at a predetermined time interval tp. The repeated execution of the control process in Figure 7 ends when the indoor unit 3a receives an instruction to end air conditioning operation from the remote controller 5. The air conditioning setting device 2 receives the instruction to start and end air conditioning operation from the remote controller 5 via the indoor unit 3a.

[0092] 7, when the control process starts, the information acquisition unit 24 of the air conditioning setting device 2 acquires various pieces of information necessary for the estimation unit 25 to calculate the estimated load Q (S100). As described above, the information necessary for calculating the estimated load Q is acquired from the devices and sensors provided in the target space S.

[0093] Next, the estimation unit 25 calculates the above-mentioned outdoor air load, lighting load, equipment load, and human body load based on the information acquired by the information acquisition unit 24, and calculates an estimated load Q, which is an estimated value of the thermal load Qr of the target space S (S102). The estimation unit 25 also determines whether or not a correction value for correcting the estimated load Q has been notified from the correction unit 27 (S104). The correction value is notified to the estimation unit 25 from the correction unit 27 in step S214 of the correction process shown in FIG. 8, which will be described later. The notified correction value is the above-mentioned upward correction value γ or downward correction value ε.

[0094] When the correction value has been notified by the correction unit 27 (S104, YES), the estimation unit 25 corrects the estimated load Q calculated in step S102 using the notified correction value (S106), and notifies the setting unit 26 of the corrected estimated load Q. As described above, the estimation unit 25 can correct the estimated load Q by cumulatively using all correction values ​​notified by the correction unit 27 up to that point.

[0095] Next, the estimation unit 25 transmits a correction notification to the remote controller 5 via the indoor unit 3a indicating that the estimated load Q has been corrected using the correction value (S108). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S110. Upon receiving the correction notification, the remote controller 5 displays information indicating that the estimated load Q has been corrected using the correction value on a display device provided in the remote controller 5.

[0096] On the other hand, when the correction value has not been notified from the correction unit 27 (S104, NO), the estimation unit 25 does not correct the estimated load Q, and the process proceeds to step S110.

[0097] In step S110, the setting unit 26 calculates the temperature difference ΔT from the space temperature Tc of the target space S acquired from the information acquisition unit 24 and the target temperature Tt for the target space S set by the remote controller 5 (S110). The temperature difference ΔT can be calculated as the value obtained by subtracting the target temperature Tt from the space temperature Tc.

[0098] Next, the setting unit 26 determines whether the temperature difference ΔT is equal to or less than the first threshold value Th1 (S112). If the temperature difference ΔT is equal to or less than the first threshold value Th1 (S112, YES), the setting unit 26 determines whether the temperature difference ΔT is equal to or greater than the second threshold value Th2 (S114). If the temperature difference ΔT is equal to or greater than the second threshold value Th2 (S114, YES), that is, if the temperature difference ΔT is within the temperature maintenance range Rm, the setting unit 26 determines whether the monitoring period Pob of the corrector 27 has started (S116). If the monitoring period Pob has not started (S116, NO), the setting unit 26 transmits an instruction to start the monitoring period Pob to the corrector 27 (S118). When the setting unit 26 transmits the instruction to start the monitoring period Pob, the setting unit 26 stores the fact that the monitoring period Pob has started.

[0099] As will be described later, in the correction process shown in Fig. 8, the correction unit 27 starts the monitoring period Pob by receiving an instruction to start the monitoring period Pob (step S202 in Fig. 8), and when the monitoring period Pob ends, it transmits a notification of the end of the monitoring period Pob to the setting unit 26 (step S216 in Fig. 8). Furthermore, when the setting unit 26 receives the notification of the end of the monitoring period Pob, it deletes the memory of the fact that it transmitted an instruction to start the monitoring period Pob in step S118. As a result, the setting unit 26 can determine that the monitoring period Pob has started when it has stored the fact that it transmitted an instruction to start the monitoring period Pob, and can determine that the monitoring period Pob has not started when it has not stored the fact that it transmitted the start instruction.

[0100] Next, depending on the judgment result in step S104, if the estimated load Q was corrected in step S106, the setting unit 26 sets the value of the corrected estimated load Q to the target air conditioning capacity W, or if the correction value was not notified in step S104 and the estimated load Q was not corrected, the setting unit 26 sets the value of the estimated load Q calculated in step S102 to the target air conditioning capacity W (S110), and transmits the set target air conditioning capacity W to the indoor unit 3a.

[0101] Upon receiving the target air conditioning capacity W, the control unit 38 of the indoor unit 3a begins operational control of the air conditioner 3 at the target air conditioning capacity W (S116) and terminates this process. After termination, the air conditioning setting device 2 and indoor unit 3a repeat the control process of FIG. 7 at predetermined time intervals tp until an instruction to terminate the air conditioning operation is sent from the remote controller 5. Note that when an instruction to terminate the air conditioning operation is sent from the remote controller 5 and the control process terminates, the estimator 25 may discard all correction values ​​notified by the corrector 27, or may store all of the correction values. If the correction values ​​have been stored, the estimator 25 may correct the estimated load Q using the stored correction values ​​as initial values ​​the next time the control process is started.

[0102] On the other hand, when the temperature difference ΔT exceeds the first threshold value Th1 in step S112 (S112, NO), that is, when the temperature difference ΔT is within the first adjustment range R1, the setting unit 26 sets the target air conditioning capacity W to a value obtained by adding a predetermined adjustment amount α to the value of the estimated load Q corrected in step S106 or the value of the estimated load Q calculated in step S102, depending on the determination result in step S104 (S124), and transmits the set target air conditioning capacity W to the indoor unit 3a. The indoor unit 3a then executes step S126.

[0103] On the other hand, when the temperature difference ΔT is less than the second threshold value Th2 in step S114 (S108, NO), that is, when the temperature difference ΔT is within the second adjustment range R2, the setting unit 26 sets the target air conditioning capacity W to a value obtained by subtracting a predetermined adjustment amount β from the value of the estimated load Q corrected in step S106 or the value of the estimated load Q calculated in step S102, depending on the determination result of step S104 (S122), and transmits the set target air conditioning capacity W to the indoor unit 3a. The indoor unit 3a then executes step S126.

[0104] Next, the correction process shown in FIG. 8 will be described. The correction process shown in Fig. 8 starts and is repeatedly executed when the indoor unit 3a receives an instruction to start air-conditioning operation from the remote controller 5. The repeated execution of the control process in Fig. 7 ends when the indoor unit 3a receives an instruction to end air-conditioning operation from the remote controller 5.

[0105] 8, when the process starts, the correction unit 27 determines whether or not it has received an instruction to start the monitoring period Pob from the setting unit 26 (S200). As described above, the setting unit 26 transmits the start instruction to the correction unit 27 in step S118 of the control process shown in FIG.

[0106] When the instruction to start the monitoring period Pob has not been received from the setting unit 26 (S200, NO), the correction unit 27 returns to step S200 to repeat the process and waits for the instruction to start the monitoring period Pob to be received from the setting unit 26.

[0107] On the other hand, when an instruction to start the monitoring period Pob is received from the setting unit 26 (S200, YES), the correction unit 27 starts measuring the elapsed time tel of the monitoring period Pob (S202). Next, the correction unit 27 measures the deviation time tdev, which is the total time during which the temperature difference ΔT deviates from the temperature maintenance range Rm during the monitoring period Pob (S204).

[0108] Next, the correction unit 27 determines whether the elapsed time tel of the monitoring period Pob has exceeded a predetermined time length tob (S206). If the elapsed time tel has not exceeded tob (S206, NO), the correction unit 27 returns to step S204 and repeats the process to continue measuring the deviation time tdev.

[0109] Here, the measurement of the deviation time tdev in step S204 can be performed by dividing the deviation time tdev into the high temperature side and the low temperature side of the temperature maintenance range Rm during the monitoring period Pob, as described above, and measuring the deviation time tdev toward the high temperature side and the deviation time tdev toward the low temperature side. Then, the correction unit 27 can determine the deviation time tdev on the high temperature side or the low temperature side, whichever is larger, as the deviation time tdev for that monitoring period Pob.

[0110] On the other hand, if the elapsed time tel has exceeded tob in step S206 (YES in S206), the correction unit 27 determines whether the deviation time tdev in the monitoring period Pob has exceeded the threshold time tth (S208). If the deviation time tdev has exceeded the threshold time tth (YES in S208), the correction unit 27 acquires from the estimation unit 25 the load type (i.e., information on whether it is a cooling load or a heating load) of the estimated load Q calculated in step S102 of the control process in Fig. 7 (S210).

[0111] Next, the correction unit 27 determines a correction value for the estimated load Q (S212). The correction unit 27 determines a positive or negative upward correction value γ or downward correction value ε based on the information on the load type of the estimated load Q acquired in step S210 and information on whether the deviation time tedv measured in step S204 is a deviation time from the temperature maintenance range Rm to the higher temperature side or the lower temperature side, in accordance with the example of the correction value shown in FIG.

[0112] The correction unit 27 notifies the estimation unit 25 of the determined correction value (S214). The correction unit 27 also sends an end notification of the monitoring period Pob to the setting unit 26 (S216) and ends the correction process. After the correction process ends, the correction unit 27 restarts the correction process unless the indoor unit 3a receives an instruction to end the air conditioning operation from the remote controller 5.

[0113] On the other hand, if the deviation time tdev does not exceed the threshold time tth in step S208 (S208, NO), the correction unit 27 moves the process to step S216 without determining a correction value.

[0114] Here, in Fig. 7, step S102 corresponds to the estimation step in the present disclosure. Furthermore, the processes of steps S112, S114, S120, S122, and S124 correspond to the setting step in the present disclosure. Furthermore, the process of step S126 in Fig. 7 corresponds to the control step in the present disclosure. Furthermore, the processes of steps S200 to S216 in Fig. 8 and the processes of steps S104 and S106 in Fig. 7 correspond to the correction step in the present disclosure.

[0115] [3. Modifications] Next, a modification of the above-described embodiment will be described. [3-1. First Modification] Even if the deviation time tdev during the monitoring period Pob exceeds the threshold time tth, the correction unit 27 may not determine a correction value for the estimated load Q if the absolute value of the difference between the first time obtained by accumulating the time during which the temperature difference ΔT exceeds the first threshold value Th1 during the monitoring period Pob and the second time obtained by accumulating the time during which the temperature difference ΔT is less than the second threshold value Th2 is equal to or less than a predetermined judgment threshold value.

[0116] When the difference between the first time and the second time is small, it is difficult to uniquely determine whether the discrepancy between the estimated load Q and the actual heat load Qr is the result of an overestimation or underestimation of the heat load. As described above, when the difference between the first time and the second time is small, no correction value is determined and no correction of the estimated load Q is made, thereby avoiding an erroneous correction of the estimated load Q and preventing inappropriate air conditioning control from being performed on the person P in the target space S. [3-2. Second Modification] The correction unit 27 may determine a different correction value for the estimated load Q depending on the manner in which the temperature difference ΔT deviates from the temperature maintenance range Rm. The manner in which the temperature difference ΔT deviates may be at least one of the following. a) The length of the deviation time tdev. b) The number of times that the temperature difference ΔT deviates from the temperature maintenance range Rm during the monitoring period Pob. c) The temperature difference δtdiff between the temperature maintenance range Rm and the temperature difference ΔT within the deviation period tdev (for example, the maximum or average value of the temperature difference δtdiff). d) The integral of the temperature difference δtdiff during the deviation period tdev (for example, the integral over the deviation period tdev).

[0117] For example, the correction unit 27 may determine a larger absolute value of the upper correction value γ or the lower correction value ε as the deviation time tdev is longer, the number of deviations is greater, the absolute value of the temperature difference δtdiff is greater, and / or the integral value of the temperature difference δtdiff is greater.

[0118] This allows, for example, the estimated load Q to be quickly corrected to a value closer to the actual thermal load Qr with a single correction, and quickly achieves a state in which the temperature difference ΔT remains within the temperature maintenance range Rm. [3-3. Third Modification] When the correction unit 27 determines the correction value for the estimated load Q, it outputs a notification to the remote controller 5 that the estimation of the estimated load Q is inappropriate. For example, the correction unit 27 transmits the notification to the remote controller 5 via the indoor unit 3a, and causes the display device of the remote controller 5 to display the notification.

[0119] This allows the user to recognize that the estimation error of the estimated load Q was large, and to take appropriate measures, being aware of the need to inspect the sensors related to the heat load estimation installed in the target space S and / or outdoors for malfunctions.

[0120] [3-4. Fourth Variation] The correction unit 27 may identify the factors that prevented the estimated load Q from being properly estimated based on the manner in which the temperature difference ΔT deviates from the temperature maintenance range Rm during the monitoring period Pob, and / or the time period in which the deviation time tdev exceeds the threshold time tth.

[0121] For example, the correction unit 27 can use any one of the deviation modes a) to d) above for the temperature difference ΔT or a combination thereof as the deviation mode. The correction unit 27 can identify the factors by, for example, comparing the deviation mode and / or the time period in which the deviation was observed, or a combination thereof, with the time change in weather obtained from information from sensors and devices installed in the target space S and outdoors, the time change in the number of people P in the target space S, and the time change in the operating status of electrical devices such as the ventilation device 7, the lighting device 9, and the refrigerator 10.

[0122] This allows the error factor of the estimated load Q to be quickly identified.

[0123] Furthermore, when the correction unit 27 identifies the above-mentioned factor, the estimation unit 25 may correct the parameters related to the factor among the parameters used to calculate the estimated load Q. For example, if the correction unit 27 considers that the reason why the estimated load Q was not estimated properly is due to a change in the number of people in the target space S, it may modify the parameters related to the calculation of the above-mentioned human body load.

[0124] As a result, after correcting the above parameters, the estimated load Q can be estimated more accurately, which makes it possible to quickly reduce the frequency of deviation of the temperature difference ΔT from the temperature maintenance range Rm, thereby improving the comfort of the target space S, and to reduce the frequency of changes to the setting of the target air conditioning capacity W, thereby avoiding an increase in the power consumption of the air conditioner 3.

[0125] Furthermore, the correction unit 27 may cause the remote controller 5 to output a notification indicating the identified cause. This allows the user or person P who is the air conditioning manager to quickly take action in response to the notified cause, thereby enabling appropriate air conditioning operation in response to the heat load of the target space S to be realized early, thereby avoiding an increase in power consumption and improving the comfort of the target space S. Here, the above-mentioned "action in response to the cause" may be, for example, when the cause is caused by a change in the number of people in the target space S, measures such as installing additional motion sensors 13 or changing their placement positions.

[0126] [3-5. Fifth Variation] When the target temperature Tt for the target space S is changed by the remote controller 5, the estimation unit 25 may discard the most recently calculated estimated load Q and calculate a new estimated load Q. This makes it possible to prevent a change in the temperature difference ΔT caused by a change in the setting of the target temperature Tt from affecting the accuracy of the estimated load Q.

[0127] [4. Effects, etc.] As described above, the air conditioning system 1 includes an estimator 25 that calculates an estimated load Q, which is an estimate of the thermal load Qr of the target space S required to maintain the space temperature Tc of the target space S at its current value; a setting unit 26 that sets a control target for the air conditioner 3 that conditions the target space S based on the estimated load Q; a controller 38 that controls the operation of the air conditioner 3 in accordance with the control target; and a corrector 27 that determines a correction value used to correct the estimated load Q in the estimator 25. The corrector 27 measures a deviation time tdev, which is the cumulative time that the temperature difference ΔT deviates from the temperature maintenance range Rm during a monitoring period Pob with a predetermined length of time tod, from the time when the temperature difference ΔT, which is the value obtained by subtracting the target temperature Tt from the space temperature Tc, falls within the predetermined temperature maintenance range Rm. When the deviation time tdev exceeds a predetermined threshold time tth, the corrector 27 determines a correction value (an upward correction value γ or a downward correction value ε) used by the estimator 25 to correct the estimated load Q.

[0128] According to this configuration, the estimated load Q, which is an estimated value for the thermal load Qr of the target space S, is appropriately corrected, and air conditioning control based on the thermal load Qr of the target space S can suppress an increase in power consumption of the air conditioner 3 and improve the comfort of the target space S.

[0129] Furthermore, when the estimated load Q is a cooling load and the temperature difference ΔT exceeds the first threshold value Th1 over the deviation time tdev that exceeds the threshold time tth, the correction unit 27 determines the upward correction value γ so that the absolute value of the estimated load Q is corrected to a larger value. Furthermore, when the estimated load Q is a cooling load and the temperature difference ΔT is less than the second threshold value Th2 over the deviation time tdev that exceeds the threshold time tth, the correction unit 27 determines the downward correction value ε so that the absolute value of the estimated load Q is corrected to a smaller value. Furthermore, when the estimated load Q is a heating load and the temperature difference ΔT exceeds the first threshold value Th1 over the deviation time tdev that exceeds the threshold time tth, the correction unit 27 determines the downward correction value ε so that the absolute value of the estimated load Q is corrected to a smaller value. Furthermore, when the estimated load Q is a heating load and the temperature difference ΔT is less than the second threshold value Th2 over the deviation time tdev that exceeds the threshold time tth, the correction unit 27 determines the upward correction value γ so that the absolute value of the estimated load Q is corrected to a larger value.

[0130] According to this configuration, the correction value for the estimated load Q can be appropriately determined depending on the type of thermal load in the target space S and the direction of deviation of the temperature difference ΔT from the temperature maintenance range Rm.

[0131] Furthermore, even if the deviation time tdev exceeds the threshold time tth, the correction unit 27 may not determine a correction value to be used in calculating the estimated load Q if the absolute value of the difference between the first time, which is the accumulated time during which the temperature difference ΔT exceeds the first threshold Th1, and the second time, which is the accumulated time during which the temperature difference ΔT is less than the second threshold Th2, during the monitoring period Pob is equal to or less than a predetermined judgment threshold.

[0132] According to this configuration, when the direction in which the estimated load Q should be corrected cannot be uniquely determined, it is possible to prevent inappropriate air conditioning control from being performed on the person P in the target space S due to an incorrect correction.

[0133] In addition, the correction unit 27 may change the correction value according to at least one of the length of the deviation time tdev, the number of times the temperature difference ΔT deviates from the temperature maintenance range Rm within the monitoring period Pob, the temperature difference Δtdiff between the temperature maintenance range Rm and the temperature difference ΔT within the deviation period, which is the period during which the temperature difference ΔT deviates from the temperature maintenance range Rm within the monitoring period Pob, and the integral value of the temperature difference Δtdiff within the deviation period tdev.

[0134] According to this configuration, the estimated load Q can be quickly corrected to a value closer to the actual thermal load Qr, and the temperature difference ΔT can be quickly brought into a state where it remains within the temperature maintenance range Rm.

[0135] Furthermore, when the correction unit 27 determines a correction value for the estimated load Q, it may output a notification to the remote controller 5 of the air conditioner 3 operated by the person P who is the user that the estimation of the estimated load Q is inappropriate.

[0136] With this configuration, the user can quickly recognize that the estimation error of the estimated load Q was large, and be aware of the need to inspect the sensors related to the heat load estimation installed in the target space S and / or outdoors for any malfunctions, and take appropriate measures.

[0137] In addition, the correction unit 27 may identify the factor that prevented the estimated load Q from being estimated appropriately based on the manner in which the temperature difference ΔT deviates from the temperature maintenance range Rm during the monitoring period Pob, and / or the time period in which the deviation time tdev exceeds the threshold time tth. According to this configuration, the error factor of the estimated load can be quickly identified.

[0138] Furthermore, when the correction unit 27 identifies a factor that prevented the estimated load Q from being properly estimated, the estimation unit 25 may correct parameters related to the factor among the parameters used to calculate the estimated load Q.

[0139] According to this configuration, the frequency of deviation of the temperature difference ΔT from the temperature maintenance range Rm can be quickly reduced, improving the comfort of the target space S, and reducing the frequency of changes to the setting of the target air conditioning capacity W to avoid an increase in the power consumption of the air conditioner 3.

[0140] In addition, when the correction unit 27 identifies the cause of the inability to properly estimate the estimated load Q, it outputs a notification indicating the identified cause to the remote controller 5 of the air conditioner 3 operated by the user, person P.

[0141] According to this configuration, the user or the person P who is the air conditioning manager can quickly take action according to the notified factor, so that appropriate air conditioning operation according to the thermal load of the target space S can be achieved early, thereby avoiding an increase in power consumption in the air conditioner 3 and improving the comfort of the target space S.

[0142] Furthermore, when the target temperature Tt is changed, the estimation unit 25 may discard the most recently calculated estimated load Q and calculate a new estimated load Q.

[0143] According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent a change in the temperature difference ΔT caused by a change in the setting of the target temperature Tt from affecting the accuracy of the estimated load Q.

[0144] In addition, the air conditioning method executed by the first processor 20 of the air conditioning setting device 2, which is a computer of the air conditioning system 1 that controls the operation of the air conditioner 3, and the second processor 33 of the air conditioning control device 30, includes an estimation step (S102) of calculating an estimated load Q, which is an estimated value of the thermal load Qr of the target space S to maintain the space temperature Tc of the target space S at its current value, setting steps (S112, S114, S120, S122, S124) of setting a control target of the air conditioner 3 that conditions the target space S based on the estimated load Q, a control step (S126) of controlling the operation of the air conditioner in accordance with the control target, and correction steps (S200 to S216) of determining a correction value used to correct the estimated load Q in the estimation step. In the correction step, a deviation time tdev is measured, which is the accumulated time that the temperature difference ΔT deviates from the temperature maintenance range Rm during a monitoring period Pob of a predetermined length of time tod, from the time when the temperature difference ΔT enters the temperature maintenance range Rm. In the correction step, if the deviation time tdev exceeds a predetermined threshold time tth, a correction value (upper correction value γ or lower correction value ε) to be used to correct the estimated load Q in the estimation step is determined.

[0145] According to this configuration, in the air conditioning system 1, the estimated load Q, which is an estimated value for the thermal load Qr of the target space S, is appropriately corrected, and air conditioning control based on the thermal load Qr of the target space S can suppress an increase in power consumption of the air conditioner 3 and improve the comfort of the target space S.

[0146] The first program 23 of the air conditioning setting device 2 and the second program 36 of the air conditioning control device 30 constitute an air conditioning program executed by a computer of the air conditioning system 1 that controls the operation of the air conditioner 3. The air conditioning program causes the first processor 20 and second processor 33, which are the computers of the air conditioning system 1, to execute an estimation step of calculating an estimated load Q, which is an estimated value of the heat load Qr of the target space S for maintaining the space temperature Tc of the target space S at its current value, a setting step of setting a control target of the air conditioner 3 that conditions the target space S based on the estimated load Q, a control step of controlling the operation of the air conditioner 3 in accordance with the control target, and a correction step of determining a correction value used to correct the estimated load Q in the estimation step. In the correction step, a deviation time tdev is measured, which is the accumulated time that the temperature difference ΔT deviates from the temperature maintenance range Rm during a monitoring period Pob of a predetermined length of time tod, from the time when the temperature difference ΔT enters the temperature maintenance range Rm. In the correction step, if the deviation time tdev exceeds a predetermined threshold time tth, a correction value (upper correction value γ or lower correction value ε) to be used to correct the estimated load Q in the estimation step is determined.

[0147] According to this configuration, the computer of the air conditioning system 1 appropriately corrects the estimated load Q, which is an estimated value for the thermal load Qr of the target space S, and by controlling the air conditioning based on the thermal load Qr of the target space S, it is possible to suppress an increase in the power consumption of the air conditioner 3 and improve the comfort of the target space S.

[0148] (Other embodiments) In the above-described embodiment, the temperature maintenance range Rm for the temperature difference ΔT used by the setting unit 26 of the air conditioning setting device 2 is a range with the first threshold value Th1 and the second threshold value Th2 as its upper and lower limits, respectively. However, the temperature maintenance range Rm is not limited to a range with an upper limit and a lower limit, and may be a range defined by only an upper limit or only a lower limit.

[0149] The air conditioning setting device 2 is not limited to being a server device connected to the communication network NW, but can be realized as any type of device. For example, the air conditioning setting device 2 can be realized as a device built into the communication relay device 4. Also, for example, the air conditioning setting device 2 can be realized as part of the air conditioning control device 30 provided in the indoor unit 3a of the air conditioner 3.

[0150] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are intended to illustrate the technology of the present disclosure, and various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. may be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0151] (Addendum) The above description of the embodiment and its modifications discloses the following techniques.

[0152] (Technology 1) An air conditioning system comprising: an estimating unit that calculates an estimated load, which is an estimate of the heat load of a target space in order to maintain the space temperature of the target space at a current value; a setting unit that sets a control target for an air conditioner that conditions the target space based on the estimated load; a control unit that controls the operation of the air conditioner in accordance with the control target; and a correcting unit that determines a correction value used to correct the estimated load in the estimating unit, wherein the correcting unit measures a deviation time, which is the accumulated time that the differential temperature, which is the difference between the space temperature and the target temperature, deviates from a predetermined temperature maintenance range, during a monitoring period of a predetermined length from the time when the differential temperature enters a predetermined temperature maintenance range, and when the deviation time exceeds a predetermined threshold time, the estimating unit determines the correction value to be used to calculate the estimated load.

[0153] This allows the estimated load, which is an estimated value for the heat load of the target space, to be appropriately corrected, and air conditioning control based on the heat load of the target space can suppress an increase in the power consumption of the air conditioner and improve the comfort of the target space.

[0154] (Technology 2) The estimated load is a cooling load, which is the amount of heat that the air conditioner should remove from the target space, or a heating load, which is the amount of heat that the air conditioner should provide to the target space, and the temperature maintenance range is defined as a range of values ​​that is equal to or less than a first threshold value and equal to or greater than a second threshold value that is smaller than the first threshold value, and when the estimated load is a cooling load, if the temperature difference exceeds the first threshold value over the deviation time that exceeds the threshold time, the correction unit determines the correction value so that the absolute value of the estimated load is corrected to a larger value, and When the temperature difference is less than the second threshold value over the deviation time exceeding the threshold time, the correction value is determined so that the absolute value of the estimated load is corrected to a smaller value. When the temperature difference is more than the first threshold value over the deviation time exceeding the threshold time in a case where the estimated load is a heating load, the correction value is determined so that the absolute value of the estimated load is corrected to a smaller value. When the temperature difference is less than the second threshold value over the deviation time exceeding the threshold time, the correction value is determined so that the absolute value of the estimated load is corrected to a larger value.

[0155] This makes it possible to appropriately determine a correction value for the estimated load depending on the type of heat load in the target space and the direction of deviation of the temperature difference from the temperature maintenance range.

[0156] (Technology 3) The air conditioning system described in Technology 1 or 2, wherein the temperature maintenance range is defined as a range of values ​​equal to or less than a first threshold value and equal to or greater than a second threshold value that is smaller than the first threshold value, and the correction unit does not determine the correction value when the absolute value of the difference between a first time, which is the cumulative time during which the temperature difference exceeds the first threshold value, and a second time, which is the cumulative time during which the temperature difference is less than the second threshold value, during the monitoring period, is equal to or less than a predetermined judgment threshold value, even if the deviation time exceeds the threshold time.

[0157] This makes it possible to prevent inappropriate air conditioning control from being performed on people in the target space due to an erroneous correction when the direction in which the estimated load should be corrected cannot be uniquely determined.

[0158] (Technology 4) An air conditioning system according to any one of Techniques 1 to 3, wherein the correction unit changes the correction value depending on at least one of the length of the deviation time, the number of times the temperature difference deviates from the temperature maintenance range within the monitoring period, the temperature difference between the temperature maintenance range and the temperature difference within the deviation period during which the temperature difference deviates from the temperature maintenance range within the monitoring period, and the integral value of the temperature difference within the deviation period.

[0159] This allows the estimated load to be quickly corrected to a value closer to the actual heat load, and quickly achieves a state in which the temperature difference remains within the temperature maintenance range.

[0160] (Technology 5) An air conditioning system according to any one of technologies 1 to 4, wherein when the correction unit determines the correction value, it outputs a notification to the effect that the estimation of the estimated load is inappropriate on a remote controller of the air conditioner operated by a user.

[0161] This allows the user to quickly recognize that the estimated load had a large estimation error, and to take appropriate measures, being aware of the need to inspect the sensors related to the heat load estimation installed in the target space and / or outdoors for malfunctions, etc.

[0162] (Technology 6) An air conditioning system described in any one of Technologies 1 to 5, wherein the correction unit identifies the factors that prevented the estimated load from being estimated appropriately based on the manner in which the temperature difference deviates from the temperature maintenance range during the monitoring period and / or the time period in which the deviation time exceeds the threshold time.

[0163] This allows the cause of error in the estimated load to be quickly identified.

[0164] (Technology 7) The air conditioning system according to Technology 6, wherein when the correction unit identifies the factor, the estimation unit corrects a parameter related to the factor among the parameters used to calculate the estimated load.

[0165] This allows the frequency of deviation of the temperature difference from the temperature maintenance range to be quickly reduced, improving the comfort of the target space, and reducing the frequency of changes to the target air conditioning capacity setting to avoid an increase in the power consumption of the air conditioner.

[0166] (Technology 8) The air conditioning system according to Technology 6 or 7, wherein the correction unit outputs a notification indicating the identified cause to a remote controller of the air conditioner operated by a user.

[0167] This allows the user or air conditioning manager to quickly take action based on the notified factor, allowing appropriate air conditioning operation based on the heat load of the target space to be achieved early, thereby avoiding an increase in power consumption and improving the comfort of the target space S.

[0168] (Technology 9) An air conditioning system according to any one of Techniques 1 to 8, wherein when the target temperature is changed, the estimation unit discards the most recently calculated estimated load and calculates a new estimated load.

[0169] This makes it possible to prevent the influence of a change in the temperature difference caused by a change in the target temperature setting on the error in the estimated load.

[0170] (Technology 10) An air conditioning method executed by a computer of an air conditioning system that controls the operation of an air conditioner, the air conditioning method comprising: an estimation step of calculating an estimated load, which is an estimate of the heat load of a target space in order to maintain the space temperature of the target space at a current value; a setting step of setting a control target for an air conditioner that conditions the target space based on the estimated load; a control step of controlling the operation of the air conditioner in accordance with the control target; and a correction step of determining a correction value used to correct the estimated load in the estimation step, wherein the correction step measures a deviation time, which is the accumulated time that the differential temperature, which is the difference between the space temperature and the target temperature, deviates from a predetermined temperature maintenance range during a monitoring period of a predetermined length from the time when the differential temperature enters the temperature maintenance range; and when the deviation time exceeds a predetermined threshold time, a positive or negative correction value used to calculate the estimated load in the estimation step is determined depending on whether the differential temperature has deviated toward the higher or lower temperature side of the temperature maintenance range.

[0171] This provides the same effect as the air conditioning system of Technology 1.

[0172] (Technology 11) An air conditioning program that causes a computer of an air conditioning system that controls the operation of an air conditioner to execute the following steps: an estimation step of calculating an estimated load, which is an estimated value of the heat load of a target space in order to maintain the space temperature of the target space at a current value; a setting step of setting a control target for the air conditioner that conditions the target space based on the estimated load; a control step of controlling the operation of the air conditioner in accordance with the control target; and a correction step of determining a correction value to be used to correct the estimated load in the estimation step; wherein the correction step measures a deviation time, which is the accumulated time that the differential temperature, which is the difference between the space temperature and the target temperature, deviates from a predetermined temperature maintenance range during a monitoring period of a predetermined length from the time when the differential temperature enters a predetermined temperature maintenance range; and when the deviation time exceeds a predetermined threshold time, determines a positive or negative correction value to be used to calculate the estimated load in the estimation step depending on whether the differential temperature has deviated toward the higher or lower side of the temperature maintenance range.

[0173] This provides the same effect as the air conditioning system of Technology 1. [Industrial Applicability]

[0174] As described above, the air conditioning system, air conditioning method, and air conditioning program according to the present disclosure can be used to suppress an increase in the power consumption of an air conditioner and improve the comfort of a target space. [Explanation of symbols]

[0175] 1. Air conditioning system 2. Air conditioning setting device 3 Air conditioner 3a Indoor unit 3b Outdoor unit 4. Communication relay equipment 5 Remote Controller 6 Indoor sensors 7. Ventilation system 8 Outdoor Sensors 9. Lighting equipment 10. Refrigerator 11. Television 12. Computer 13 Human Sensor 20 First Processor 21 First Memory 22 First communication device 23 Program 1 24 Information Acquisition Department 25 Estimation part 26 Setting section 27 Correction section 30 Air conditioning control device 31 Indoor ventilation fan 32 Indoor expansion valve 33 Second Processor 34 Second Memory 35 Second communication device 36 Second Program 37 Communications Department 38 Control Unit 301 Compressor 302 Compressor motor α, β adjustment amount γ upward correction value ε downward correction value DR Door H Building NW communication network P person Pob monitoring period Q Estimated load Qr heat load R1 First adjustment range R2 Second adjustment range Rm Temperature Maintenance Range S target space tdev Deviation time tth threshold time Tc space temperature Th1 First threshold Th2 Second threshold Tt Target temperature WD window W Target air conditioning capacity Wr air conditioning capacity ΔT temperature difference

Claims

1. an estimation unit that calculates an estimated load, which is an estimated value of a heat load of the target space for maintaining the space temperature of the target space at a current value; a setting unit that sets a control target of an air conditioner that conditions the target space based on the estimated load; a control unit that controls the operation of the air conditioner in accordance with the control target; a correction unit that determines a correction value used to correct the estimated load in the estimation unit; Equipped with The correction unit measuring a deviation time, which is the accumulated time during which the temperature difference, which is the difference between the space temperature and the target temperature, deviates from the temperature maintenance range during a monitoring period of a predetermined length from the time when the temperature difference falls within a predetermined temperature maintenance range; When the deviation time exceeds a predetermined threshold time, the estimation unit determines the correction value to be used in calculating the estimated load. Air conditioning system.

2. the estimated load is a cooling load that is the amount of heat that the air conditioner should remove from the target space, or a heating load that is the amount of heat that the air conditioner should provide to the target space, the temperature maintenance range is defined as a range of values ​​that is equal to or less than a first threshold value and equal to or greater than a second threshold value that is smaller than the first threshold value, The correction unit When the estimated load is a cooling load, When the temperature difference exceeds the first threshold value for the deviation time period that exceeds the threshold time period, the correction value is determined so that the absolute value of the estimated load is corrected to a larger value; When the temperature difference is less than the second threshold value over the deviation time period that exceeds the threshold time period, the correction value is determined so that the absolute value of the estimated load is corrected to a smaller value; When the estimated load is a heating load, When the temperature difference exceeds the first threshold value for the deviation time period that exceeds the threshold time period, the correction value is determined so that the absolute value of the estimated load is corrected to a smaller value; When the temperature difference is less than the second threshold value over the deviation time period that exceeds the threshold time period, the correction value is determined so that the absolute value of the estimated load is corrected to a larger value. The air conditioning system of claim 1 .

3. the temperature maintenance range is defined as a range of values ​​that is equal to or less than a first threshold value and equal to or greater than a second threshold value that is smaller than the first threshold value, The correction unit Even if the deviation time exceeds the threshold time, if the absolute value of the difference between a first time, which is the cumulative time during which the temperature difference exceeds the first threshold, and a second time, which is the cumulative time during which the temperature difference is less than the second threshold, during the monitoring period is equal to or less than a predetermined judgment threshold, the correction value is not determined. The air conditioning system of claim 1 .

4. The correction unit calculates the correction value as follows: the length of the deviation time; the number of times the temperature difference deviates from the temperature maintenance range within the monitoring period; A temperature difference between the temperature maintenance range and the temperature difference during a deviation period during which the temperature difference deviates from the temperature maintenance range within the monitoring period, and an integral value of the temperature difference during the deviation period; Modifying in accordance with at least one of The air conditioning system of claim 1 .

5. When the correction unit determines the correction value, it outputs a notification to the effect that the estimation of the estimated load is inappropriate to a remote controller of the air conditioner operated by a user. The air conditioning system of claim 1 .

6. the correction unit identifies a factor that prevented the estimated load from being appropriately estimated based on a manner in which the temperature difference deviated from the temperature maintenance range during the monitoring period and / or a time period in which the deviation time exceeded the threshold time. The air conditioning system of claim 1 .

7. When the correction unit identifies the factor, the estimation unit corrects a parameter related to the factor among parameters used to calculate the estimated load.

7. The air conditioning system of claim 6.

8. the correction unit outputs a notification indicating the identified cause to a remote controller of the air conditioner operated by a user.

7. The air conditioning system of claim 6.

9. When the target temperature is changed, the estimation unit discards the most recently calculated estimated load and calculates a new estimated load.

9. An air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. An air conditioning method executed by a computer in an air conditioning system that controls the operation of an air conditioner, an estimation step of calculating an estimated load, which is an estimated value of the heat load of the target space for maintaining the space temperature of the target space at a current value; a setting step of setting a control target of an air conditioner that conditions the target space based on the estimated load; a control step of controlling the operation of the air conditioner in accordance with the control target; a correction step of determining a correction value used to correct the estimated load in the estimation step; and In the correction step, measuring a deviation time, which is the accumulated time during which the temperature difference, which is the difference between the space temperature and the target temperature, deviates from the temperature maintenance range during a monitoring period of a predetermined length from the time when the temperature difference falls within a predetermined temperature maintenance range; When the deviation time exceeds a predetermined threshold time, a positive or negative correction value to be used in calculating the estimated load in the estimation step is determined depending on whether the temperature difference has deviated toward the higher or lower side of the temperature maintenance range. Air conditioning method.

11. The computer in the air conditioning system that controls the operation of the air conditioner an estimation step of calculating an estimated load, which is an estimated value of the heat load of the target space for maintaining the space temperature of the target space at a current value; a setting step of setting a control target of an air conditioner that conditions the target space based on the estimated load; a control step of controlling the operation of the air conditioner in accordance with the control target; a correction step of determining a correction value used to correct the estimated load in the estimation step; An air conditioning program that executes In the correction step, measuring a deviation time, which is the accumulated time during which the temperature difference, which is the difference between the space temperature and the target temperature, deviates from the temperature maintenance range during a monitoring period of a predetermined length from the time when the temperature difference falls within a predetermined temperature maintenance range; When the deviation time exceeds a predetermined threshold time, a positive or negative correction value to be used in calculating the estimated load in the estimation step is determined depending on whether the temperature difference has deviated toward the higher or lower side of the temperature maintenance range. Air conditioning program.

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