Air conditioning system, air conditioning method, and information output program

Abstract

To provide an air conditioning system capable of improving energy saving performance according to a change mode of a heat load in an object space and / or improving comfortableness of the object space.SOLUTION: An air conditioning system includes: an estimation unit for calculating an estimated load that is an estimated value of a current heat load of an object space; a prediction unit for calculating a predicted load that is a predicted value of a future heat load at a predetermined time ahead of the current time; and a setting unit for setting a target air conditioning capacity that is a target value of an air conditioning capacity to be realized by an air conditioner for air conditioning the object space. The setting unit has a first mode in which the value of the estimated load is set for the target air conditioning capacity when it is determined that the heat load of the object space is in a first state in which the heat load monotonically increases or monotonically decreases with time based on the estimated load and the predicted load, and a second mode in which an absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity is set for a value smaller than a maximum value when it is determined that an absolute value of the heat load of the object space is in a second state in which an absolute value of the heat load of the object space has a maximum value with time based on the estimated load and the predicted load.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that predicts air conditioning load based on current environmental information such as outside temperature and past environmental information, and controls air conditioning capacity based on the predicted air conditioning load to counteract the effects of air conditioning load fluctuations. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 5-264086 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 an information output program that can improve energy efficiency and / or improve comfort in a target space in accordance with changes in the heat load in 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 current heat load of the target space in order to maintain the space temperature of the target space; a prediction unit that calculates a predicted load, which is a predicted value of the heat load in the future a predetermined time ahead of the present; and a setting unit that sets a target air conditioning capacity, which is a target value of the air conditioning capacity that an air conditioner that air-conditions the target space should achieve in its air conditioning operation of the target space.The setting unit has setting modes for the target air conditioning capacity, which include a first mode that sets the estimated load to the target air conditioning capacity when it is determined, based on the estimated load and the predicted load, that the heat load of the target space is in a first state in which it monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time; and a second mode that sets the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity to a value smaller than the maximum value when it is determined, based on the estimated load and the predicted load, that the absolute value of the heat load of the target space has a maximum value over time.

[0006] In addition, the air conditioning system of the present disclosure comprises an estimation unit that calculates an estimated load, which is an estimated value of the current heat load of the target space in order to maintain the space temperature of the target space; a prediction unit that calculates a predicted load, which is a predicted value of the heat load in the future a predetermined time ahead of the present; and a setting unit that sets a target air conditioning capacity, which is a target value of the air conditioning capacity that an air conditioner that conditions the target space should achieve in its air conditioning operation of the target space, and the setting unit has as setting modes for the target air conditioning capacity: a first mode that sets the estimated load to the target air conditioning capacity when it is determined, based on the estimated load and the predicted load, that the heat load of the target space is in a first state in which it monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time; and a third mode that sets the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity to a value greater than the minimum value when it is determined, based on the estimated load and the predicted load, that the absolute value of the heat load of the target space is in a third state in which it has a minimum value over time.

[0007] The air conditioning method of the present disclosure is an air conditioning method executed by a computer of an air conditioning system, and includes an estimation step of calculating an estimated load, which is an estimated value of the current heat load of the target space to maintain the space temperature of the target space; a prediction step of calculating a predicted load, which is a predicted value of the heat load in the future a predetermined time ahead of the present; and a setting step of setting a target air conditioning capacity, which is a target value of the air conditioning capacity that the air conditioner that conditions the target space should achieve in its air conditioning operation of the target space.In the setting step, the target air conditioning capacity is set to the estimated load when it is determined, based on the estimated load and the predicted load, that the heat load of the target space is in a first state in which it monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time, or a second mode in which the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity is set to a value smaller than the maximum value when it is determined, based on the estimated load and the predicted load, that the absolute value of the heat load of the target space has a maximum value over time.

[0008] The air conditioning method of the present disclosure is an air conditioning method executed by a computer of an air conditioning system, and includes an estimation step of calculating an estimated load, which is an estimated value of the current heat load of the target space to maintain the space temperature of the target space; a prediction step of calculating a predicted load, which is a predicted value of the heat load in the future a predetermined time ahead of the present; and a setting step of setting a target air conditioning capacity, which is a target value of the air conditioning capacity that the air conditioner that conditions the target space should achieve in its air conditioning operation of the target space.In the setting step, the target air conditioning capacity is set to the estimated load when it is determined, based on the estimated load and the predicted load, that the heat load of the target space is in a first state where it monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time, or a third mode in which the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity is set to a value greater than the minimum value when it is determined, based on the estimated load and the predicted load, that the absolute value of the heat load of the target space has a minimum value over time.

[0009] The information output program in the present disclosure is a program executed by a computer, and causes the computer to function as an acquisition unit that acquires historical information on the control operations of air conditioners provided in an air conditioning system that air-conditions a target space, and a report output unit that outputs time series information regarding the control operations based on the historical information, wherein the historical information includes time series data of an estimated load, which is the thermal load estimated for the target space, and time series data of the air conditioning capacity achieved by the air conditioner for the target space, and the report output unit outputs to a display device a report screen that superimposes a saving time display indicating the time when power consumption was reduced, estimated from the difference between the estimated load and the air conditioning capacity for each hour, a graph showing the progress of the estimated load over time, and a graph showing the progress of the air conditioning capacity over time. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] The air conditioning system, air conditioning method, and information output program according to the present disclosure can improve energy efficiency and / or improve comfort in a target space in accordance with changes in the heat load in the target space. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [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. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an indoor unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an air conditioning information output device according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of setting a target air conditioning capacity in a first mode in a setting unit of an air conditioning setting device. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of time variations in the space temperature and heat load of a target space, and the air conditioning capacity of an air conditioner, during the setting operation of the first mode. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of time transitions of an estimated load, a predicted load, a target air conditioning capacity, and an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioner, for explaining the setting operation of the second mode. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of time transitions of an estimated load, a predicted load, a target air conditioning capacity, and an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioner, for explaining the setting operation of the second mode. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of time transitions of an estimated load, a predicted load, a target air conditioning capacity, and an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioner, for explaining the setting operation of the second mode. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining candidate values ​​of the target air conditioning capacity and their selection in the setting operation of the second mode. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of time transitions of an estimated load, a predicted load, a target air conditioning capacity, and an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioner, for explaining the setting operation of the third mode. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of time transitions of an estimated load, a predicted load, a target air conditioning capacity, and an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioner, for explaining the setting operation of the third mode. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of time transitions of an estimated load, a predicted load, a target air conditioning capacity, and an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioner, for explaining the setting operation of the third mode. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining candidate values ​​of the target air conditioning capacity and their selection in the setting operation of the third mode. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of temperature history information on a report screen output by an air conditioning information output device. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a pop-up displaying detailed information on a report screen output by an air conditioning information output device. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of detailed information displayed on a pop-up screen on a report screen output by an air conditioning information output device. [Figure 18] 1 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the air conditioning method executed by the air conditioning system 1. [Figure 19] Flowchart showing the procedure of the prediction process in FIG. 18 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] (Findings that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time the inventors arrived at the present disclosure, there was a technology for controlling an air conditioner to set the temperature of a room to a target temperature by predicting the heat load (air conditioning load) of the target space based on current environmental information such as outdoor temperature and past environmental information, and controlling the air conditioning capacity based on the predicted heat load to counteract the effects of heat load fluctuations (e.g., room temperature changes). However, the heat load in the target space repeatedly increases and decreases over time due to factors such as people entering and exiting the space, the on / off switching of electrical equipment such as lighting fixtures, and the on / off switching of ventilation systems to introduce outside air. Accordingly, the space temperature of the target space may repeatedly rise and fall independently of the air conditioning operation. Therefore, it is believed possible to maintain the space temperature of the target space within a comfortable temperature range without faithfully controlling the air conditioning capacity to counteract changes in the heat load. For example, during cooling operation, if the heat load in a target space changes from increasing to decreasing within a short period of time from the present, the space temperature may not rise significantly and may remain within a comfortable temperature range, even if the air conditioning capacity is not necessarily increased to offset the current increase in heat load. Furthermore, during cooling operation, if the heat load in a target space changes from decreasing to increasing within a short period of time from the present, not reducing the air conditioning capacity to offset the current decrease in heat load may result in a faster subsequent increase in the space temperature. The inventors discovered a problem with the prior art in that air conditioner control that controls air conditioning capacity to offset changes in heat load as described above leaves room for improvement in terms of energy efficiency and / or comfort. To solve this problem, the present disclosure constitutes the subject matter of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure provides an air conditioning system, an air conditioning method, and an information output program that can improve energy efficiency and / or improve comfort in a target space in accordance with changes in the heat load in the target space.

[0013] 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.

[0014] (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.

[0015] The air conditioning system 1 comprises 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.

[0016] 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.

[0017] 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.

[0018] 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.

[0019] 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.

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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.

[0022] 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.

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] [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. 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.

[0030] 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 prediction unit 26, and a setting unit 27.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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).

[0033] 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.

[0034] The estimation unit 25 repeatedly calculates an estimated load Qg, 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 Qg, which are cooling loads, are represented by positive numbers, and the thermal load Qr and estimated load Qg, which are heating loads, are represented by negative numbers.

[0035] When calculating the estimated load Qg, the estimation unit 25 may handle one or more of the following factors of 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.

[0036] 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).

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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 Qg for the target space S.

[0040] 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 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 Qg when calculating the estimated load Qg. For example, the estimation unit 25 may add the amount of heat exchanged between the target space S and the outdoor air via a wall separating the target space S to the estimated load Qg as a load other than the outdoor air load, lighting load, equipment load, and human body load.

[0041] The prediction unit 26 calculates a predicted load Qp, which is a predicted value of the heat load in the target space S for a predetermined time from the present. The predetermined time may be, for example, the same time as the time interval tp for setting the target air conditioning capacity W in the setting unit 27, which will be described later.

[0042] The prediction unit 26 can calculate the predicted load Qp using a trained heat load prediction model 28 that has undergone machine learning to learn the relationship between the time of day in a week, month, or year in the target space S and the estimated load Qg calculated by the estimation unit 25 at each of those times. The trained heat load prediction model 28 can be created in advance and stored in the first memory 21, and the estimation unit 25 can periodically cause the heat load prediction model 28 to perform continuous machine learning using the calculated estimated load Qg.

[0043] Alternatively, the prediction unit 26 may calculate the predicted load based on a change in the number of people in the target space S. For example, the prediction unit 26 may acquire information on the number of people P in the target space S from the information acquisition unit 24, and when the number of people changes, calculate the increase or decrease in the human body load described above, and predict a subsequent change in the heat load in the target space S.

[0044] The setting unit 27 sets a target air conditioning capacity W, which is a target value of the air conditioning capacity to be achieved by the air conditioner 3 that conditions the target space S. The setting unit 27 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.

[0045] In this embodiment, the setting unit 27 has three setting modes for the target air conditioning capacity: a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode. Each of the three setting modes, the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode, will be described below.

[0046] <First mode> The first mode is a setting mode that is executed in the following two cases. The first case is when the value of the temperature difference ΔT, which is the value obtained by subtracting the target temperature Tt from the space temperature Tc, is not within the specified temperature maintenance range Rm, and the setting unit 27 sets the value obtained by adding or subtracting an adjustment amount to the current estimated load Qg as the current target air conditioning capacity W. The second case is executed when the temperature difference ΔT is within the temperature maintenance range Rm and it is determined that the thermal load of the target space S is in the first state where it monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time, based on the estimated load Qg calculated by the estimation unit 25 and the predicted load Qp calculated by the prediction unit 26. In the second case, the setting unit 27 sets the target air conditioning capacity W to the value of the estimated load Qg.

[0047] The specific operation in the first mode will be described below. The setting unit 27 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 Qg of the target space S from the estimation unit 25. Then, based on the acquired current space temperature Tc and estimated load Qg, the setting unit 27 sets the target air conditioning capacity at the predetermined time intervals tp.

[0048] 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the setting operation of the setting unit 27 for setting the target air conditioning capacity W in the first mode. The setting unit 27 determines the target air conditioning capacity W based on the estimated load Qg 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] The setting unit 27 determines the target air conditioning capacity W in accordance with the value range of the temperature difference ΔT as follows. First, when the temperature difference ΔT is within the temperature maintenance range Rm, that is, when the second case described above applies, the setting unit 27 determines whether the thermal load of the target space S is in a first state in which it monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time, based on the estimated load Qg calculated by the estimating unit 25 and the predicted load Qp calculated by the predicting unit 26. Then, when it is determined that the thermal load of the target space S is in the first state, the setting unit 27 sets the current estimated load Qg calculated by the estimating unit 25 as the target air conditioning capacity W (i.e., W = Q).

[0053] 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 the same air conditioning capacity as the estimated load Qg, 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.

[0054] When the thermal load of the target space S is not in the first state, the setting unit 27 sets the target air conditioning capacity W in the second mode or the third mode, which will be described later.

[0055] On the other hand, when the temperature difference ΔT is not within the temperature maintenance range Rm but is within the first adjustment range R1 or the second adjustment range R2, i.e., in the first case described above, the setting unit 27 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 Qg 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 Qg, 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.

[0056] 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 27 determines the value obtained by adding the adjustment amount α to the estimated load Qg as the target air conditioning capacity W. In other words, W = Q + α.

[0057] 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 27 determines the value obtained by subtracting the adjustment amount β from the estimated load Qg as the target air conditioning capacity W. That is, W=Q−β.

[0058] As described above, in this embodiment, the estimated load Qg for a cooling load is expressed as a positive number, and the estimated load Qg for a heating load is expressed as a negative number. Therefore, when the estimated load Qg 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 Qg 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 Qg is a cooling load and when it is a heating load.

[0059] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of temporal changes in the space temperature Tc and thermal load Qr of the target space S, and the air-conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3, when the estimated load Qg 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, and the estimation unit 25 calculates the estimated load Qg, which is an estimate of the thermal load Qr, at the predetermined time intervals. The setting unit 27 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. In FIG. 6, the estimated load Qg calculated by the estimation unit 25 is assumed to be a value that appropriately indicates the actual thermal load Qr.

[0060] In Fig. 6A, the vertical axis represents the space temperature Tc of the target space, and the horizontal axis represents time. Graph G1 in Fig. 6A shows the change in space temperature Tc over time. The target temperature Tt is assumed to remain unchanged within the time range shown in Fig. 6. Therefore, the temperature difference ΔT also changes in the same manner as graph G1. In Fig. 6A, the right side of the figure shows ranges corresponding to the first adjustment range R1, the temperature maintenance range Rm, and the second adjustment range R2 for the temperature difference ΔT.

[0061] In Fig. 6(B), the vertical axis represents the values ​​of the heat load Qr and the air conditioning capacity Wr, and the horizontal axis represents the same time as the horizontal axis in Fig. 6(A). Graphs G2 and G3 shown in Fig. 6(B) represent the time changes of the heat load Qr and the time changes of the air conditioning capacity Wr, respectively.

[0062] In the example shown in FIG. 6A, at time t1, the space temperature Tc is greater than (target temperature Tt + first threshold Th1) and falls within the first adjustment range R1 of the temperature difference ΔT. Therefore, the setting unit 27 sets the target air conditioning capacity W to a value obtained by adding the adjustment amount α to the estimated load Qg. As a result, as shown in FIG. 6B, the air conditioning capacity Wr (graph G3) of the air conditioner 3 at time t1 is greater than the thermal load Qr (graph G2) by the adjustment amount α. In other words, (Wr = Qr + α). As a result, the target space S loses a larger amount of heat than the thermal load Qr, and the space temperature Tc decreases over time after time t1 (graph G1).

[0063] The above state (Wr=Qr+α) continues until the space temperature Tc enters the temperature range corresponding to the temperature maintenance range Rm of ΔT at time t2. At time t2, when the space temperature Tc reaches the temperature range corresponding to the temperature maintenance range Rm (FIG. 6(A)), the setting unit 27 sets the target air-conditioning capacity W to the same value as the estimated load Qg. As a result, as shown in FIG. 6(B), after a slight delay from time t2, the air-conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 becomes the same as the thermal load Qr. In other words, (Wr = Qr). As a result, the target space S is cooled with the air-conditioning capacity Wr that is the same as the thermal load Qr for maintaining the space temperature Tc at its current value, and therefore the space temperature Tc is maintained at a value close to the target temperature Tt within the temperature range corresponding to the temperature maintenance range Rm from time t2 onwards.

[0064] <Second mode> The second mode is a setting mode that is executed when it is determined that the absolute value of the thermal load in the target space S is in a second state where it has a maximum value over time, based on the estimated load Qg calculated by the estimation unit 25 and the predicted load Qp calculated by the prediction unit 26. Specifically, the second state is a state where the absolute value of the thermal load in the target space S changes from increasing to decreasing. In the second mode, the setting unit 27 sets the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity W to a value smaller than the maximum value.

[0065] For example, when the value of the temperature difference ΔT, which is the value obtained by subtracting the target temperature Tt from the space temperature Tc, is within a predetermined temperature maintenance range Rm, and it is determined that the time transition of the thermal load in the target space S is in the second state, the setting unit 27 may execute the setting operation of the second mode. When the temperature difference ΔT is outside the predetermined temperature maintenance range Rm, the setting unit 27 can set the target air conditioning capacity in the above-mentioned first mode, even if it is possible to determine that the absolute value of the thermal load in the target space S is in the second state.

[0066] As an example, Figures 7, 8, and 9 are diagrams showing a series of time-dependent changes in the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 in the target space S, the predicted load Qp, and the target air conditioning capacity W set by the setting unit 27 when the predicted load Qp is a cooling load and the air conditioner 3 is operating in cooling mode.

[0067] In this embodiment, in the case of the cooling load as in FIGS. 7, 8, and 9, the heat load Qr is expressed as a positive number, and therefore the predicted load Qp is also a positive number.

[0068] 7, 8, and 9, the vertical axis represents the amount of heat and the horizontal axis represents time. Graph G4 shows the change over time in the air conditioning capacity Wr. Here, it is assumed that the temperature difference ΔT is maintained within the temperature maintenance range Rm within the time ranges shown in FIGS. 7, 8, and 9. Furthermore, in FIGS. 7, 8, and 9, it is assumed that the estimated load Qg and the predicted load Qp remain constant over time. In FIGS. 7, 8, and 9, graph G5 shows the estimated load Qg and the predicted load Qp over time. That is, graph G5 from the current time and the past from the current time shows the time change of the estimated load Qg, and graph G5 from the current time to the future shows the time change of the predicted load Qp. In FIGS. 7, 8, and 9, white circles represent the estimated load Qg or the predicted load Qp, and black circles represent the target air conditioning capacity W set by the setting unit 27. It should be understood that white circles and black circles that are adjacent to each other above and below in FIGS. 7, 8, and 9 represent the same value.

[0069] The estimation unit 25, the prediction unit 26, and the setting unit 27 calculate the estimated load Qg, calculate the predicted load Qp, and set the target air conditioning capacity W, respectively, at the above-mentioned time interval tp. n-1 , t n , t n+1 , t n+2 The time interval between each adjacent time is equal to the time interval tp.

[0070] 7, 8, and 9, the setting mode executed by the setting unit 27 in the corresponding time range is shown below the horizontal axis. n-1 In this example, the setting unit 27 is operating in the first mode.

[0071] Figure 7 shows the current time t n At time t nAt time t n-1 and time t n The estimated load Qg value Q n-1 and Q n , and time t n+1 The value of the predicted load Qp for Q n+1 Therefore, it is determined that the absolute value of the heat load of the target space S is in the first state where the absolute value tends to increase monotonically. As a result, the setting unit 27 continues the operation in the first mode as the setting mode, and at time t n The estimated load Qg value Q n At time t n Target air conditioning capacity W n Let's say.

[0072] Figure 8 shows the current time t n+1 At time t n From time t n+1 During this period, the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 (graph G4) is n The target air conditioning capacity W set at n Following W n At time t n+1 At time t n and time t n+1 , the value of the estimated load Qg at n and Q n+1 , and time t n+2 The value of the predicted load Qp for Q n+2 From the above, the absolute value of the heat load of the target space S is n+1 At the maximum value Q n+1 As a result, the setting unit 27 switches the setting mode to the second mode and sets the target air conditioning capacity W n+1 The absolute value of the maximum value Q n+1 Set it to a value smaller than

[0073] Here, when setting the target air conditioning capacity W in the second mode, the setting unit 27 predicts the time progression of the temperature difference ΔT after the setting when various values ​​are set as the target air conditioning capacity W, and can set the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity W to a value smaller than the maximum value of the absolute value of the thermal load estimated or predicted for the target space S, within a range in which the predicted temperature difference ΔT does not fall outside a predetermined range.

[0074] Specifically, for example, the setting unit 27 sets the current time t n+1 The target air conditioning capacity W to be set n+1 Set multiple candidate values ​​Wc (left column of the table in Figure 10), and set each candidate value Wc to the target air conditioning capacity W n+1 When set as n+2 Predict the temperature difference ΔT at

[0075] Here, the plurality of candidate values ​​Wc are, for example, n+1 The estimated load Qg value Q n+1 From the previous time t n The estimated load Qg value Q n The value range can be up to Furthermore, the multiple candidate values ​​Wc can be determined so that the difference between their values ​​is at least equal to or greater than the step value of the air conditioning capacity Wr that can be realized in the air conditioner 3 (for example, the resolution of the air conditioning capacity Wr that can be realized).

[0076] Then, the setting unit 27 sets the time t n+2 Based on the predicted temperature difference ΔT at time t, the setting unit 27 evaluates the comfort of the target space S at time t n+2 The comfort of the target space S at time t is judged as "G" (i.e., pass or good), and if the predicted value of the temperature difference ΔT is outside the above-mentioned predetermined range, n+2The setting unit 27 then determines the comfort level of the target space S at time t as "NG" (i.e., fail or poor). Then, the setting unit 27 selects the smallest candidate value Wc from among the candidate values ​​Wc within the range in which the comfort level of the target space S is "G" (i.e., among the candidate values ​​Wc in which the predicted temperature difference ΔT does not fall outside the predetermined range), and sets the selected candidate value Wc at time t n+1 Target air conditioning capacity W n+1 Set as.

[0077] Here, the predetermined range for the temperature difference ΔT used in the evaluation of comfort may be, for example, a range equal to or less than the first threshold value Th1 and equal to or greater than the second threshold value Th2. Alternatively, the setting unit 27 may use a range defined using values ​​other than the first threshold value Th1 and the second threshold value Th2 as the predetermined range.

[0078] In the example of FIG. 10, the setting unit 27 sets the minimum value 29 kW / h among the candidate values ​​Wc for which the comfort rating is "G" at time t n+1 Target air conditioning capacity W n+1 may be selected as the value of

[0079] Figure 9 shows the time when the current time is further changed to time t n+3 The state is shown as it progresses to time t n+1 In this case, the target air conditioning capacity W n+1 In response to the setting of n+1 From t n+2 During this period, the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 is set to the target air conditioning capacity W n+1 It rises to (Graph G4).

[0080] The following time t n+2 At time t n+1 and time t n+2 The estimated load Qg value Q n+1 and Q n+2 , and time t n+3 The value of the predicted load Qp for Q n+3 Therefore, it is determined that the absolute value of the heat load of the target space S is in the first state, which shows a monotonically decreasing trend. As a result, the setting unit 27 switches the setting mode to the first mode, and at time t n+2The estimated load Qg value Q n+2 At time t n+2 Target air conditioning capacity W n+2 This means that at time t n+2 From t n+3 During this period, the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 is set to the target air conditioning capacity W n+2 It starts to decline towards.

[0081] Next, at time t n+3 When time t n+2 and time t n+3 The estimated load Qg value Q n+2 and Q n+3 , and time t n+4 The value of the predicted load Qp for Q n+4 Therefore, it is determined that the absolute value of the heat load of the target space S is in the first state, which is in a monotonically decreasing trend. As a result, the setting unit 27 maintains the set mode in the first mode and n+3 The estimated load Qg value Q n+3 At time t n+3 Target air conditioning capacity W n+3 This means that at time t n+3 From t n+4 During this period, the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 is set to the target air conditioning capacity W n+3 decreases towards

[0082] <Third mode> The third mode is a setting mode that is executed when it is determined that the target space S is in a third state in which the absolute value of the thermal load has a minimum value over time, based on the estimated load Qg calculated by the estimation unit 25 and the predicted load Qp calculated by the prediction unit 26. Specifically, the third state is a state in which the absolute value of the thermal load in the target space S changes from a decrease to an increase. In the third mode, the setting unit 27 sets the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity W to a value greater than the minimum value.

[0083] For example, when the value of the temperature difference ΔT, which is the value obtained by subtracting the target temperature Tt from the space temperature Tc, is within a predetermined temperature maintenance range Rm, and it is determined that the time transition of the absolute value of the thermal load of the target space S is in the third state, the setting unit 27 may execute the setting operation of the third mode. When the temperature difference ΔT is outside the predetermined temperature maintenance range Rm, the setting unit 27 can set the target air conditioning capacity in the above-described first mode, even if it is possible to determine that the absolute value of the thermal load of the target space S is in the third state.

[0084] As an example, Figures 11, 12, and 13 are diagrams showing a series of time trends of the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 in the target space S, the predicted load Qp, and the target air conditioning capacity W set by the setting unit 27 when the predicted load Qp is a cooling load and the air conditioner 3 is operating in cooling mode.

[0085] 11, 12, and 13, the vertical axis represents the amount of heat and the horizontal axis represents time. Graph G6 shows the change in the air conditioning capacity Wr over time. Here, it is assumed that the temperature difference ΔT is maintained within the temperature maintenance range Rm within the time ranges shown in FIGS. 11, 12, and 13. Furthermore, in FIGS. 11, 12, and 13, it is assumed that the estimated load Qg and the predicted load Qp remain constant over time. In FIGS. 11, 12, and 13, graph G7 shows the estimated load Qg and the predicted load Qp over time. That is, graph G7 from the current time and the past from the current time shows the time evolution of the estimated load Qg, while graph G7 from the current time to the future shows the time evolution of the predicted load Qp. In FIGS. 11, 12, and 13, white circles represent the estimated load Qg or the predicted load Qp, and black circles represent the target air conditioning capacity W set by the setting unit 27. It should be understood that white circles and black circles that are adjacent to each other above and below in FIGS. 11, 12, and 13 represent the same value.

[0086] The estimation unit 25, the prediction unit 26, and the setting unit 27 calculate the estimated load Qg, calculate the predicted load Qp, and set the target air conditioning capacity W, respectively, at the above-mentioned time interval tp.n-1 , t n , t n+1 , t n+2 The time interval between each adjacent time is equal to the time interval tp.

[0087] 11, 12, and 13, the setting mode executed by the setting unit 27 in the corresponding time range is shown below the horizontal axis. n-1 In this example, the setting unit 27 is operating in the first mode.

[0088] Figure 11 shows the current time t m At time t m At time t m-1 and time t m The estimated load Qg value Q m-1 and Q m , and time t m+1 The value of the predicted load Qp for Q m+1 Therefore, it is determined that the absolute value of the heat load of the target space S is in the first state, which shows a monotonically decreasing trend. As a result, the setting unit 27 continues the operation in the first mode as the setting mode, and at time t m The estimated load Qg value Q m At time t m Target air conditioning capacity W m Let's say.

[0089] Figure 12 shows the current time t m+1 At time t m From time t m+1 During this period, the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 (graph G6) is m The target air conditioning capacity W set at m Following W m At time t m+1 At time t m and time t m+1 , the value of the estimated load Qg at m and Q m+1 , and time t m+2 The value of the predicted load Qp for Q m+2From the above, the absolute value of the heat load of the target space S is m+1 At the minimum value Q m+1 As a result, the setting unit 27 switches the setting mode to the third mode and sets the target air conditioning capacity W m+1 the above minimum value Q m+1 Set it to a value greater than

[0090] Here, when setting the target air conditioning capacity W in the third mode, the setting unit 27 predicts the time progression of the temperature difference ΔT after the setting when various values ​​are set as the target air conditioning capacity W, and can set the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity W to a value smaller than the minimum value of the absolute value of the thermal load estimated or predicted for the target space S, within a range in which the predicted temperature difference ΔT does not fall outside a predetermined range.

[0091] Specifically, for example, the setting unit 27 sets the current time t m+1 The target air conditioning capacity W to be set m+1 Set multiple candidate values ​​Wc (left column of the table in Figure 14), and set each candidate value Wc to the target air conditioning capacity W m+1 When set as m+2 Predict the temperature difference ΔT at

[0092] Here, the plurality of candidate values ​​Wc are, for example, m+1 The estimated load Qg value Q m+1 From the next time t m+2 The estimated load Qg value Q m+2 The value range can be up to Furthermore, the multiple candidate values ​​Wc can be determined so that the difference between their values ​​is at least equal to or greater than the step value of the air conditioning capacity Wr that can be realized in the air conditioner 3 (for example, the resolution of the air conditioning capacity Wr that can be realized).

[0093] Then, the setting unit 27 sets the time t m+2 Based on the predicted temperature difference ΔT at time t, the setting unit 27 evaluates the comfort of the target space S at time t m+2The comfort of the target space S at time t is judged as "G" (i.e., pass or good), and if the predicted value of the temperature difference ΔT is outside the above-mentioned predetermined range, m+2 The setting unit 27 then determines the comfort level of the target space S at time t as "NG" (i.e., fail or poor). Then, the setting unit 27 selects one candidate value Wc from among the candidate values ​​Wc within the range in which the comfort level of the target space S is "G" (i.e., from among the candidate values ​​Wc in which the predicted temperature difference ΔT does not fall outside the predetermined range), and sets the selected candidate value Wc at time t m+1 Target air conditioning capacity W m+1 Set as.

[0094] For example, the setting unit 27 calculates the predicted power consumption Pg, which is the predicted value of the power consumption in the air conditioner 3 when the target air conditioning capacity W is set in the third mode, and determines the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity W so that the predicted power consumption Pg is minimized.

[0095] In the example of FIG. 14, the setting unit 27 sets the target air conditioning capacity W m+1 For each candidate value Wc (left column of the table in FIG. 14), the candidate value Wc is used as the target air conditioning capacity W m+1 When set as m From time t m+2 The setting unit 27 then selects the candidate value Wc=28 kW / h at which the expected power consumption Pg is the minimum value of 360 kWh from among the candidate values ​​Wc within the range in which the comfort level of the target space S is "G," and sets the selected candidate value Wc at time t m+1 Target air conditioning capacity W m+1 Let's say.

[0096] Here, the predetermined range for the temperature difference ΔT used in the evaluation of comfort may be, for example, a range equal to or less than the first threshold value Th1 and equal to or greater than the second threshold value Th2. Alternatively, the setting unit 27 may use a range defined using values ​​other than the first threshold value Th1 and the second threshold value Th2 as the predetermined range.

[0097] Figure 13 shows the time when the current time is further changed to time t m+3The state is shown as it progresses to time t m+1 In this case, the target air conditioning capacity W m+1 In response to the setting of m+1 From t m+2 During this period, the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 is set to the target air conditioning capacity W m+1 It then decreases to (Graph G6).

[0098] The following time t m+2 At time t m+1 and time t m+2 The estimated load Qg value Q m+1 and Q m+2 , and time t m+3 The value of the predicted load Qp for Q m+3 Therefore, it is determined that the absolute value of the heat load of the target space S is in the first state where the absolute value tends to increase monotonically. As a result, the setting unit 27 switches the setting mode to the first mode and, at time t m+2 The estimated load Qg value Q m+2 At time t m+2 Target air conditioning capacity W m+2 This means that at time t m+2 From t m+3 During this period, the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 is set to the target air conditioning capacity W m+2 It starts to rise towards.

[0099] Next, at time t m+3 When time t m+2 and time t m+3 The estimated load Qg value Q m+2 and Q m+3 , and time t m+4 The value of the predicted load Qp for Q m+4 Therefore, it is determined that the absolute value of the heat load in the target space S is in the first state, which shows a monotonically increasing trend. As a result, the setting unit 27 maintains the set mode in the first mode and m+3 The estimated load Qg value Q m+3 At time t m+3 Target air conditioning capacity W m+3 This means that at time t m+3 From t m+4During this period, the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 is set to the target air conditioning capacity W m+3 increases towards.

[0100] [1-3. Indoor unit configuration] Next, the configuration of the indoor unit 3a will be described. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the indoor unit 3a. 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] [1-4. Configuration of air conditioning information output device] Next, we will explain the configuration of the air conditioning information output device 14. The air conditioning information output device 14 is, for example, a tablet PC placed in the target space S, and can be used by a manager who manages the air conditioning of the target space S. Alternatively, the air conditioning information output device 14 may be a computer placed in the target space S, or in a control room of the building H, for example.

[0110] 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning information output device 14. The air conditioning information output device 14 includes a third processor 40, a third memory 41, a third communication device 42, and a touch panel 43. The third memory 41 is configured by a volatile and / or non-volatile semiconductor memory or the like. The third communication device 42 includes a transceiver for the third processor 40 to communicate with each device provided in the target space S and an external device on the communication network NW. The touch panel 43 corresponds to the display device in the present disclosure.

[0111] The third processor 40 is a computer equipped with a processor such as a CPU. The third processor 40 may be configured to have a ROM in which programs and data are written, and / or a RAM for temporarily storing data. The third processor 40 has an acquisition unit 45 and a report output unit 46 as functional elements or units.

[0112] These functional elements of the third processor 40 are realized, for example, by the third processor 40, which is a computer, executing a third program 44 stored in the third memory 41. The third program 44 can be stored in any computer-readable storage medium. Alternatively, all or part of the functional elements of the third processor 40 can be configured by hardware including one or more electronic circuit components. Here, the third program 44 corresponds to the information output program in the present disclosure.

[0113] The acquisition unit 45 acquires historical information about the control operation of the air conditioner 3 included in the air conditioning system 1 that air-conditions the target space S. The historical information includes time series data of the estimated load Qg and time series data of the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3.

[0114] The history information may include time series data on the on / off of the air conditioner 3, time series data on the space temperature Tc of the target space S, time series data on the outside air temperature To, and time series data on the target temperature Tt.

[0115] The report output unit 46 outputs time-series information related to the control operation of the air conditioner 3 from the history information acquired by the acquisition unit 45. In particular, in this embodiment, the report output unit 46 outputs to the touch panel 43 a report screen on which a saving time display St indicating the time when power consumption estimated from the difference between the estimated load Qg and the air conditioning capacity Wr for each hour of the day was suppressed, a graph showing the progress of the estimated load Qg over time, and a graph showing the progress of the air conditioning capacity Wr over time are superimposed.

[0116] 15 and 16 are diagrams showing an example of a report screen that the report output unit 46 outputs to the touch panel 43. The report output unit 46 displays, for example, a report screen including the temperature history information shown in Fig. 15 on the touch panel 43. This temperature history information can be displayed, for example, when the user performs a touch operation or the like on a menu screen (not shown) that the report output unit 46 displays on the touch panel 43.

[0117] The temperature history information may include, for example, a graph G8 showing the time progression of the target temperature Tt (set temperature) shown by the dotted line in the figure, a graph G9 showing the time progression of the space temperature Tc of the target space S shown by the solid line in the figure, a graph G10 showing the time progression of the outdoor air temperature To shown by the dotted line in the figure, and a bar display Dd showing the time progression of the on / off operation of the air conditioner 3.

[0118] On the report screen displayed in Figure 15, for example, if the user drags the cursor Cur on the touch panel 43 to align it with any time on the time scale Tsc and taps it, detailed information DI for that time will pop up on the report screen.

[0119] Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a report screen in which detailed information DI is displayed as a pop-up. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an example of detailed information DI displayed as a pop-up. This detailed information DI may include a saving time display St indicating the time at which power consumption estimated from the difference between the estimated load Qg and the air conditioning capacity Wr for each time period was reduced, a graph G11 showing the time progression of the estimated load Qg, and a graph G12 showing the time progression of the air conditioning capacity Wr. In the example of Fig. 17, a bar display Dm indicating the time progression of the setting mode executed by the setting unit 27 is also shown below the horizontal axis Ha indicating the time.

[0120] [2. Operation] Next, the procedure of the operation of the air conditioning system 1 will be described. 18 and 19 are flowcharts showing the processing steps of the air conditioning method executed by the first processor 20 of the air conditioning setting device 2, which is a computer provided in the air conditioning system 1, and the second processor 33 of the indoor unit 3a. Here, the first program 23 and the second program 36 are air conditioning programs that cause the first processor 20 and the second processor 33, which are computers, to execute each step of the air conditioning method shown below.

[0121] The process shown in Figure 18 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 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 instructions to start and end air conditioning operation from the remote controller 5 via the indoor unit 3a.

[0122] 18, when processing starts, the information acquisition unit 24 of the air conditioning setting device 2 acquires various pieces of information necessary for the calculation of the estimated load Qg by the estimator 25 (S100). As described above, the information necessary for calculating the estimated load Qg is acquired from the devices and sensors provided in the target space S.

[0123] 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 Qg, which is an estimated value of the thermal load Qr of the target space S (S102).

[0124] The setting unit 27 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 (S104). The temperature difference ΔT can be calculated as the value obtained by subtracting the target temperature Tt from the space temperature Tc.

[0125] Next, the setting unit 27 determines whether the temperature difference ΔT is equal to or less than the first threshold value Th1 (S106). If the temperature difference ΔT is equal to or less than the first threshold value Th1 (S106, YES), the setting unit 27 determines whether the temperature difference ΔT is equal to or greater than the second threshold value Th2 (S108). If the temperature difference ΔT is equal to or greater than the second threshold value Th2 (S108, NO), that is, if the temperature difference ΔT is within the temperature maintenance range Rm, the air conditioning system 1 executes a prediction process (S110). In the prediction process, the setting unit 27 sets a target air conditioning capacity W using one of the setting modes, the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode, described above, based on a prediction of the thermal load of the target space S over time, and transmits the set target air conditioning capacity W to the air conditioner 3. Specific details of the prediction process will be described later with reference to FIG. 19.

[0126] The control unit 38 of the indoor unit 3a that has received the target air conditioning capacity W starts controlling the operation of the air conditioner 3 at the target air conditioning capacity W (S116) and ends this process. After completion, the air conditioning setting device 2 and indoor unit 3a repeat this process at predetermined time intervals tp until an instruction to end the air conditioning operation is sent from the remote controller 5.

[0127] On the other hand, when the temperature difference ΔT exceeds the first threshold value Th1 in step S106 (S106, NO), that is, when the temperature difference ΔT is within the first adjustment range R1, the setting unit 27 sets the target air conditioning capacity W to a value obtained by adding a predetermined adjustment amount α to the current estimated load Qg (S112), and transmits the set target air conditioning capacity W to the indoor unit 3a. Thereafter, the indoor unit 3a executes step S116 and ends the process.

[0128] On the other hand, when the temperature difference ΔT is less than the second threshold value Th2 in step S108 (S108, NO), that is, when the temperature difference ΔT is within the second adjustment range R2, the setting unit 27 sets the value obtained by subtracting the predetermined adjustment amount β from the current estimated load Qg as the target air conditioning capacity W (S114), and transmits the set target air conditioning capacity W to the indoor unit 3a. Thereafter, the indoor unit 3a executes step S116.

[0129] FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the prediction process in step S110 of FIG. When the process starts, the prediction unit 26 of the air conditioning setting device 2 first calculates the predicted load Qp, which is the thermal load of the target space S a predetermined time from the present (S200). The prediction unit 26 sets the repetition time interval tp of the process in Fig. 18 as the predetermined time, for example, and calculates the predicted load Qp for the predetermined time from the present time using the trained thermal load prediction model 28 stored in the first memory 21.

[0130] Next, the setting unit 27 determines, based on the predicted load Qp, whether the thermal load in the target space S is in a first state in which it monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time (S202). Then, if the thermal load in the target space S is in the first state (S202, YES), the setting unit 27 sets the target air conditioning capacity W in the first mode (S208). As described above, in the first mode, the setting unit 27 sets the value of the current estimated load Qg as the current target air conditioning capacity W. After transmitting the set target air conditioning capacity W to the indoor unit 3a, the setting unit 27 returns to the processing of FIG. 18.

[0131] On the other hand, if the thermal load in the target space S is not in the first state in step S202 (S202, NO), the setting unit 27 determines whether the absolute value of the thermal load in the target space S is in the second state (S204). As described above, the second state refers to a state in which the absolute value of the thermal load in the target space S has a maximum value over time. If the absolute value of the thermal load in the target space S is in the second state (S204, YES), the setting unit 27 sets the target air conditioning capacity W in the second mode (S210). As described above, in the second mode, the setting unit 27 sets the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity W to a value smaller than the maximum value of the absolute value of the thermal load estimated or predicted for the target space S. After transmitting the set target air conditioning capacity W to the indoor unit 3a, the setting unit 27 returns to the processing of FIG. 18.

[0132] On the other hand, if the absolute value of the thermal load in the target space S is not in the second state in step S204 (S204, NO), the setting unit 27 determines whether the absolute value of the thermal load in the target space S is in the third state (S206). As described above, the third state refers to a state in which the absolute value of the thermal load in the target space S has a minimum value over time. If the absolute value of the thermal load in the target space S is in the third state (S206, YES), the setting unit 27 sets the target air conditioning capacity W in the third mode (S212). As described above, in the third mode, the setting unit 27 sets the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity W to a value smaller than the minimum value of the absolute value of the thermal load estimated or predicted for the target space S. After transmitting the set target air conditioning capacity W to the indoor unit 3a, the setting unit 27 returns to the processing of FIG. 18.

[0133] On the other hand, if the absolute value of the thermal load in the target space S is not in the third state in step S206 (S206, NO), the setting unit 27 returns to the processing in Fig. 18, for example, without setting a new value for the target air conditioning capacity W. In this case, the air conditioner 3 performs air conditioning operation in accordance with the target air conditioning capacity W transmitted in the previous iterative processing in Fig. 18.

[0134] Here, in Fig. 18, step S102 corresponds to the estimation step in the present disclosure. Furthermore, the processes of steps S106, S108, S112, and S114 in Fig. 18 and the processes of steps S202 to S212 in Fig. 19 correspond to the setting step in the present disclosure. Furthermore, step S200 in Fig. 19 corresponds to the prediction step in the present disclosure.

[0135] [3. Effects, etc.] As described above, the air conditioning system 1 includes an estimation unit 25 that calculates an estimated load Qg, which is an estimate of the current heat load Qr of the target space S for maintaining the space temperature Tc of the target space S, and a prediction unit 26 that calculates a predicted load Qp, which is a predicted value of the heat load Qr a predetermined time ahead of the present. The air conditioning system 1 also includes a setting unit 27 that sets a target air conditioning capacity W, which is a target value of the air conditioning capacity Wr that the air conditioner 3 that conditions the target space S should achieve in the air conditioning operation of the target space S. The setting unit 27 has a first mode and a second mode as setting modes for the target air conditioning capacity W.

[0136] The first mode is a setting mode in which, when it is determined based on the estimated load Qg and the predicted load Qp that the heat load Qr of the target space S is in a first state where it monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time, the value of the estimated load Qg is set to the target air conditioning capacity W. The second mode is a setting mode in which, when it is determined based on the estimated load Qg and the predicted load Qp that the heat load Qr of the target space S is in a second state where the absolute value of the heat load Qr has a maximum value over time, the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity W is set to a value smaller than the maximum value.

[0137] According to this configuration, when the change in the heat load Qr predicted in the target space S is a transition from an increase to a decrease, the target air conditioning capacity W is set to be smaller than the maximum value of the predicted heat load Qr, thereby preventing the target air conditioning capacity W from being increased more than necessary and improving energy efficiency.

[0138] In addition, the setting unit 27 has a third mode as a setting mode for the target air conditioning capacity W, in which when it is determined based on the estimated load Qg and the predicted load Qp that the absolute value of the thermal load Qr of the target space S is in a third state in which it has a minimum value over time, the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity W is set to a value greater than the minimum value.

[0139] According to this configuration, when the change in the heat load Qr predicted in the target space S is a transition from a decrease to an increase, the target air conditioning capacity W is set to be greater than the minimum value of the predicted heat load Qr, thereby preventing the target air conditioning capacity W from being lowered more than necessary, improving the comfort of the target space and speeding up the return of the space temperature Tc of the target space S to the comfortable temperature range after the heat load Qr begins to increase.

[0140] Furthermore, when the temperature difference ΔT, which is the value obtained by subtracting the target temperature Tt from the current space temperature Tc, is outside the temperature maintenance range Rm, the setting unit 27 sets the target air conditioning capacity W in the first mode even if the absolute value of the thermal load Qr of the target space S can be determined to be in the second state.

[0141] According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the comfort of people in the target space S from being impaired by suppressing the target air conditioning capacity W to a low level.

[0142] In addition, when setting the target air conditioning capacity W in the second mode, the setting unit 27 predicts the time progression of the temperature difference ΔT when the target air conditioning capacity is set in the second mode, and sets the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity W to a value smaller than the estimated or predicted maximum value of the absolute value of the thermal load Qr of the target space S, within the range where the predicted temperature difference ΔT does not fall outside the temperature maintenance range Rm.

[0143] According to this configuration, the target air conditioning capacity W can be kept low to the extent that the comfort of the target space S is not impaired, thereby improving energy conservation.

[0144] In addition, the setting unit 27 has a third mode as a setting mode for the target air conditioning capacity W, in which when it is determined based on the estimated load Qg and the predicted load Qp that the absolute value of the thermal load Qr of the target space S is in a third state in which it has a minimum value over time, the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity W is set to a value greater than the minimum value.

[0145] According to this configuration, when the change in the heat load Qr predicted in the target space S is a transition from a decrease to an increase, the target air conditioning capacity W is set to be greater than the minimum value of the predicted heat load Qr, thereby preventing the target air conditioning capacity W from being lowered more than necessary, improving the comfort of the target space and speeding up the return of the space temperature Tc of the target space S to the comfortable temperature range after the heat load Qr begins to increase.

[0146] When setting the target air conditioning capacity W in the third mode, the setting unit 27 predicts the time progression of the temperature difference ΔT when the target air conditioning capacity W is set in the third mode, and sets the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity W to a value smaller than the estimated or predicted minimum value for the absolute value of the thermal load Qr of the target space S, within the range where the predicted temperature difference ΔT does not fall outside the temperature maintenance range Rm.

[0147] According to this configuration, the comfort of the target space S can be improved more reliably.

[0148] In addition, when setting the target air conditioning capacity W in the third mode, the setting unit 27 calculates the predicted power consumption Pg, which is the predicted value of the power consumption in the air conditioner 3 when the target air conditioning capacity W is set in the third mode, and sets the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity W to a value greater than the above-mentioned minimum value so that the predicted power consumption Pg is minimized.

[0149] According to this configuration, the comfort of the target space S can be improved while also taking energy conservation into consideration.

[0150] The prediction unit 26 calculates the predicted load Qp using a trained heat load prediction model 28 that has machine-learned the relationship between the time of day in the week, month, or year in the target space S and the estimated load Qg calculated by the estimation unit 25 at each of those times.

[0151] According to this configuration, it is possible to select an appropriate setting mode according to the manner in which the heat load Qr in the target space S changes from hour to hour over a week, month, or year.

[0152] Alternatively, the prediction unit 26 may calculate the predicted load Qp based on a change in the number of people in the target space S.

[0153] This configuration makes it possible to select an appropriate setting mode according to the manner in which the heat load Qr of the target space S changes due to people entering and exiting.

[0154] The first processor 20 of the air conditioning setting device 2, which is a computer of the air conditioning system 1, and the second processor 33 provided in the indoor unit 3a of the air conditioner 3 execute an air conditioning method including an estimation step (S102) of calculating an estimated load Qg, 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 the current value, a prediction step (S200) of calculating a predicted load Qp, which is a predicted value of the above-mentioned thermal load Qr for a predetermined time in the future from the present, and setting steps (S106, S108, S112, S202 to S212) of setting a target air conditioning capacity W, which is a target value of the air conditioning capacity Wr that the air conditioner 3 that conditions the target space S should achieve in the air conditioning operation of the target space S. In the setting step, the target air conditioning capacity W is set in a first mode in which the estimated load Qg is set to the target air conditioning capacity W when it is determined based on the estimated load Qg and the predicted load Qp that the thermal load Qr of the target space S is in a first state in which it monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time, or in a second mode in which the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity W is set to a value smaller than the above-mentioned maximum value when it is determined based on the estimated load Qg and the predicted load Qp that the thermal load Qr of the target space S is in a second state in which the absolute value of the thermal load Qr has a maximum value over time (S202, S204, S208, S210).

[0155] This air conditioning method provides the same effects as those of the air conditioning system 1 described above.

[0156] In addition, the first processor 20 of the air conditioning setting device 2 includes, as a step of the air conditioning method, a setting step (S206, S212) of setting the target air conditioning capacity W in a third mode in which the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity W is set to a value greater than the minimum value when it is determined, based on the estimated load Qg and the predicted load Qp, that the target space S is in a third state in which the absolute value of the thermal load Qr has a minimum value over time.

[0157] According to this air conditioning method, when the change in the heat load Qr predicted in the target space S is a transition from a decrease to an increase, a target air conditioning capacity W greater than the minimum value of the predicted heat load Qr is set, thereby preventing the target air conditioning capacity W from being lowered more than necessary, improving the comfort of the target space and speeding up the return of the space temperature Tc of the target space S to the comfortable temperature range after the heat load Qr begins to increase.

[0158] Furthermore, the third processor 40 of the air conditioning information output device 14 executes a third program 44, which is an information output program. The third program 44 causes the computer, which is the third processor 40, to function as an acquisition unit 45 that acquires historical information about the control operations of the air conditioners 3 included in the air conditioning system 1 that conditions the target space S, and as a report output unit 46 that outputs time-series information about the control operations based on the historical information. The historical information includes time-series data about the estimated load Qg, which is the thermal load estimated for the target space S, and time-series data about the air conditioning capacity Wr achieved by the air conditioners 3 for the target space S. The report output unit 46 then outputs to the touch panel 43, which is a display device, a report screen that superimposes a saving time display St, which indicates the time when power consumption estimated from the difference between the estimated load Qg and the air conditioning capacity Wr for each hour was reduced, a graph G11 showing the time progression of the estimated load Qg, and a graph G12 showing the time progression of the air conditioning capacity Wr.

[0159] According to this configuration, the user can properly understand the tendency and number of times that power suppression operations are performed in the air conditioning system 1, which may occur depending on the characteristics of the target space S, and can consider measures for further energy conservation, for example.

[0160] (Other embodiments) The setting unit 27 predicts the time progression of the temperature difference ΔT, which is the value obtained by subtracting the target temperature Tt from the space temperature Tc, for a predetermined time after the target air conditioning capacity W is set in the second mode, and if the predicted temperature difference ΔT is outside the predetermined range, the target air conditioning capacity may be set in the first mode. This makes it possible to prevent the comfort of people in the target space S from being impaired by restricting the target air conditioning capacity W to a low level.

[0161] The setting unit 27 may monitor the occurrence of a prediction deviation, in which the absolute value of the difference between the predicted load Qp for a future time a predetermined time ahead of the present and the estimated load Qg calculated when that future time arrives is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The setting unit 27 may set the target air conditioning capacity W in the second mode or the third mode on the condition that the prediction deviation has not occurred in the recent past from the present. Furthermore, the setting unit 27 may set the target air conditioning capacity W in the first mode when the prediction deviation has occurred in the recent past from the present.

[0162] Alternatively, the setting unit 27 may set the target air conditioning capacity W in the second mode or the third mode on the condition that the number of times the deviation from the prediction has occurred within a time range from the present to a predetermined time in the past is less than a predetermined number. Furthermore, the setting unit 27 may set the target air conditioning capacity W in the first mode when the number of times the deviation from the prediction has occurred within a time range from the present to a predetermined time in the past is equal to or greater than a predetermined number.

[0163] This makes it possible to prevent inappropriate air conditioning operations from being performed due to prediction errors of the heat load Qr in the target space S.

[0164] 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.

[0165] In the above-described embodiment, the air conditioning information output device 14 is a tablet PC placed in the target space S or a computer placed in the control room of the building H, but it may also be any terminal device such as a mobile terminal connected to be able to communicate with the air conditioning setting device 2 and the indoor unit 3a via the communication network NW.

[0166] 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.

[0167] (Addendum) The above description of the embodiment and its modifications discloses the following techniques.

[0168] (Technology 1) An air conditioning system comprising: an estimation unit that calculates an estimated load, which is an estimate of the current heat load of a target space in order to maintain the space temperature of the target space; a prediction unit that calculates a predicted load, which is a predicted value of the heat load in the future a predetermined time ahead of the present; and a setting unit that sets a target air conditioning capacity, which is a target value of the air conditioning capacity that an air conditioner that conditions the target space should achieve in its air conditioning operation of the target space, wherein the setting unit has as setting modes for the target air conditioning capacity: a first mode in which, when it is determined based on the estimated load and the predicted load that the heat load of the target space is in a first state in which it monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time, the estimated load is set to the target air conditioning capacity; and a second mode in which, when it is determined based on the estimated load and the predicted load that the absolute value of the heat load of the target space has a maximum value over time, the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity is set to a value smaller than the maximum value.

[0169] According to this, when the predicted change in heat load in the target space is a transition from an increase to a decrease, the target air conditioning capacity is set to be smaller than the maximum value of the predicted heat load, thereby preventing the target air conditioning capacity from being increased more than necessary and improving energy efficiency.

[0170] (Technology 2) An air conditioning system comprising: an estimating unit that calculates an estimated load, which is an estimate of the current heat load of a target space in order to maintain the space temperature of the target space; a predicting unit that calculates a predicted load, which is a predicted value of the heat load in the future a predetermined time ahead of the present; and a setting unit that sets a target air conditioning capacity, which is a target value of the air conditioning capacity that an air conditioner that conditions the target space should achieve in its air conditioning operation of the target space, wherein the setting unit has as setting modes for the target air conditioning capacity: a first mode in which, when it is determined based on the estimated load and the predicted load that the heat load of the target space is in a first state in which it monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time, the target air conditioning capacity is set to the estimated load; and a third mode in which, when it is determined based on the estimated load and the predicted load that the absolute value of the heat load of the target space has a local minimum value over time, the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity is set to a value greater than the local minimum value.

[0171] According to this, when the predicted change in heat load in the target space is a transition from a decrease to an increase, a target air conditioning capacity greater than the minimum value of the predicted heat load is set, thereby preventing the target air conditioning capacity from being lowered more than necessary, improving the comfort of the target space and speeding up the return of the space temperature of the target space to the comfortable temperature range after the heat load begins to increase.

[0172] (Technology 3) In an air conditioning system described in Technology 1, when the differential temperature, which is the value obtained by subtracting the target temperature from the current space temperature, is outside a predetermined range, the setting unit sets the target air conditioning capacity in the first mode even if the absolute value of the heat load of the target space can be determined to be in the second state.

[0173] This makes it possible to prevent the comfort of people in the target space from being impaired by reducing the target air conditioning capacity.

[0174] (Technology 4) An air conditioning system described in Technology 1 or 3, wherein the setting unit predicts the time progression of the temperature difference, which is the value obtained by subtracting the target temperature from the space temperature, for a predetermined time after the target air conditioning capacity is set in the second mode, and when the predicted temperature difference is outside a predetermined range, sets the target air conditioning capacity in the first mode.

[0175] This makes it possible to prevent the comfort of people in the target space from being impaired by reducing the target air conditioning capacity.

[0176] (Technology 5) An air conditioning system described in Technology 1, 3, or 4, in which, when setting the target air conditioning capacity in the second mode, the setting unit predicts the time progression of the temperature difference, which is the value obtained by subtracting the target temperature from the space temperature, when the target air conditioning capacity is set in the second mode, and sets the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity to a value smaller than the maximum value within a range in which the predicted temperature difference does not fall outside a predetermined range.

[0177] This makes it possible to improve energy conservation by suppressing the target air conditioning capacity to a low level within a range that does not impair the comfort of the target space.

[0178] (Technology 6) An air conditioning system described in any one of Technologies 1, 3 to 5, wherein the setting unit further has, as a setting mode of the target air conditioning capacity, a third mode in which, when it is determined based on the estimated load and the predicted load that the absolute value of the thermal load of the target space is in a third state having a minimum value over time, the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity is set to a value greater than the minimum value.

[0179] This makes it possible to realize an air conditioning system that combines the effects of the air conditioning system of Technique 1 and the air conditioning system of Technique 2.

[0180] (Technology 7) When setting the target air conditioning capacity in the third mode, the setting unit predicts the time progression of the temperature difference, which is the value obtained by subtracting the target temperature from the space temperature, when the target air conditioning capacity is set in the third mode, and sets the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity to a value greater than the minimum value within a range in which the predicted temperature difference does not fall outside a predetermined range.This is an air conditioning system described in Technology 6.

[0181] This can more reliably improve the comfort of the target space.

[0182] (Technology 8) When setting the target air conditioning capacity in the third mode, the setting unit calculates the predicted power consumption, which is the predicted value of the power consumption of the air conditioner when the target air conditioning capacity is set in the third mode, and sets the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity to a value greater than the minimum value so that the predicted power consumption is minimized.

[0183] This makes it possible to improve the comfort of the target space while also taking energy conservation into consideration.

[0184] (Technology 9) An air conditioning system described in any of Techniques 6 to 8, wherein the setting unit monitors the occurrence of a prediction deviation in which the absolute value of the difference between the predicted load for a future time a predetermined time ahead of the present and the estimated load calculated when the future time arrives is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, and sets the target air conditioning capacity in the second mode or the third mode on the condition that the prediction deviation has not occurred in the recent past from the present, and when the prediction deviation has occurred in the recent past from the present, sets the target air conditioning capacity in the first mode.

[0185] This makes it possible to prevent inappropriate air conditioning operations from being performed due to prediction errors in the heat load in the target space.

[0186] (Technology 10) An air conditioning system described in any of Techniques 6 to 8, wherein the setting unit monitors the occurrence of a prediction deviation in which the absolute value of the difference between the predicted load for a future time a predetermined time ahead of the present and the estimated load calculated when the future time arrives is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, and sets the target air conditioning capacity in the second mode or the third mode on the condition that the number of times the prediction deviation has occurred within a time range from the present to the predetermined time in the past is less than a predetermined number, and sets the target air conditioning capacity in the first mode when the number of times the prediction deviation has occurred within a time range from the present to the predetermined time in the past is greater than or equal to the predetermined number.

[0187] This makes it possible to prevent inappropriate air conditioning operations from being performed due to prediction errors in the heat load in the target space.

[0188] (Technology 11) An air conditioning system according to any one of technologies 1 to 10, wherein the prediction unit calculates the predicted load using a trained heat load prediction model that has been machine-learned to determine the relationship between the time of day in the target space during a week, month, or year and the estimated load calculated by the estimation unit at each of those times.

[0189] This makes it possible to select an appropriate setting mode according to the way in which the heat load in the target space changes from hour to hour over a week, month, or year.

[0190] (Technology 12) The air conditioning system according to any one of Techniques 1 to 10, wherein the prediction unit calculates the predicted load based on a change in the number of people in the target space.

[0191] This makes it possible to select an appropriate setting mode according to the manner in which the heat load of the target space changes due to people entering and exiting.

[0192] (Technology 13) An air conditioning method executed by a computer of an air conditioning system, comprising: an estimation step of calculating an estimated load, which is an estimate of the current heat load of a target space in order to maintain the space temperature of the target space; a prediction step of calculating a predicted load, which is a predicted value of the heat load in the future a predetermined time ahead of the present; and a setting step of setting a target air conditioning capacity, which is a target value of the air conditioning capacity that an air conditioner that conditions the target space should achieve in its air conditioning operation of the target space, wherein the setting step sets the target air conditioning capacity to the estimated load in a first mode when it is determined, based on the estimated load and the predicted load, that the heat load of the target space is in a first state in which it monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time, or in a second mode when it is determined, based on the estimated load and the predicted load, that the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity is set to a value smaller than the maximum value over time.

[0193] This provides the same effect as the air conditioning system of Technology 1.

[0194] (Technology 14) An air conditioning method executed by a computer of an air conditioning system, comprising: an estimation step of calculating an estimated load, which is an estimate of the current heat load of a target space in order to maintain the space temperature of the target space; a prediction step of calculating a predicted load, which is a predicted value of the heat load in the future a predetermined time ahead of the present; and a setting step of setting a target air conditioning capacity, which is a target value of the air conditioning capacity that an air conditioner that conditions the target space should achieve in its air conditioning operation of the target space, wherein in the setting step, the target air conditioning capacity is set to the estimated load when it is determined, based on the estimated load and the predicted load, that the heat load of the target space is in a first state in which it monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time; or a third mode in which the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity is set to a value greater than the minimum value when it is determined, based on the estimated load and the predicted load, that the absolute value of the heat load of the target space has a minimum value over time.

[0195] This provides the same effect as the air conditioning system of Technology 2.

[0196] (Technology 15) An information output program executed by a computer, which causes the computer to function as an acquisition unit that acquires historical information on the control operations of air conditioners provided in an air conditioning system that conditions a target space, and as a report output unit that outputs time series information on the control operations based on the historical information, wherein the historical information includes time series data on an estimated load, which is the thermal load estimated for the target space, and time series data on the air conditioning capacity achieved by the air conditioner for the target space, and the report output unit outputs to a display device a report screen that superimposes a saving time display that indicates the time when power consumption was reduced, which is estimated from the difference between the estimated load and the air conditioning capacity for each hour, a graph showing the progress of the estimated load over time, and a graph showing the progress of the air conditioning capacity over time.

[0197] This allows the user to properly understand the tendency and number of times that power reduction operations in the air conditioning system are performed, which may occur depending on the characteristics of the target space, through the report screen displayed by the computer, and to consider measures to further energy conservation, for example. [Industrial Applicability]

[0198] As described above, the air conditioning system, air conditioning method, and information output program according to the present disclosure can be used to improve the energy efficiency of an air conditioner and / or improve the comfort of a target space. [Explanation of symbols]

[0199] 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. Personal computer 13 Human Sensor 14 Air conditioning information output device 20 First Processor 21 First Memory 22 First communication device 23 Program 1 24 Information Acquisition Department 25 Estimation part 26 Prediction Department 27 Setting section 28 Heat Load Prediction Model 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 40 Third Processor 41 Third Memory 42 Third communication device 43 Touch panel (display device) 44 Third Program 45 Acquisition Department 46 Report output section α, β adjustment amount DR Door H Building NW communication network P person Pg Estimated power consumption Qg Estimated load Qp predicted load Qr heat load R1 First adjustment range R2 Second adjustment range Rm Temperature Maintenance Range S target space St saving time display 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 current heat load of the target space for maintaining a space temperature of the target space; a prediction unit that calculates a predicted load, which is a predicted value of the heat load in the future a predetermined time ahead from the present; a setting unit that sets a target air-conditioning capacity, which is a target value of the air-conditioning capacity that an air conditioner that air-conditions the target space should achieve in the air-conditioning operation of the target space; Equipped with The setting unit sets the target air conditioning capacity setting mode as follows: a first mode in which, when it is determined based on the estimated load and the predicted load that the heat load of the target space is in a first state in which the heat load monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time, the estimated load is set to the target air conditioning capacity; a second mode in which, when it is determined based on the estimated load and the predicted load that the absolute value of the heat load of the target space is in a second state in which the absolute value of the heat load has a maximum value over time, the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity is set to a value smaller than the maximum value; having Air conditioning system.

2. an estimation unit that calculates an estimated load, which is an estimated value of a current heat load of the target space for maintaining a space temperature of the target space; a prediction unit that calculates a predicted load, which is a predicted value of the heat load in the future a predetermined time ahead from the present; a setting unit that sets a target air-conditioning capacity, which is a target value of the air-conditioning capacity that an air conditioner that air-conditions the target space should achieve in the air-conditioning operation of the target space; Equipped with The setting unit sets the target air conditioning capacity setting mode as follows: a first mode in which, when it is determined based on the estimated load and the predicted load that the heat load of the target space is in a first state in which the heat load monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time, the estimated load is set to the target air conditioning capacity; a third mode in which, when it is determined based on the estimated load and the predicted load that the absolute value of the thermal load of the target space is in a third state in which the absolute value of the thermal load has a minimum value over time, the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity is set to a value greater than the minimum value; having Air conditioning system.

3. The setting unit When a temperature difference, which is a value obtained by subtracting a target temperature from the current space temperature, is outside a predetermined range, the target air conditioning capacity is set in the first mode even if the absolute value of the heat load of the target space can be determined to be in the second state. The air conditioning system of claim 1 .

4. The setting unit a time transition of a temperature difference, which is a value obtained by subtracting the target temperature from the space temperature, for a predetermined time after the target air conditioning capacity is set in the second mode, is predicted, and when the predicted temperature difference is outside a predetermined range, the target air conditioning capacity is set in the first mode. The air conditioning system of claim 1 .

5. When the setting unit sets the target air conditioning capacity in the second mode, a time transition of a temperature difference, which is a value obtained by subtracting the target temperature from the space temperature, when the target air conditioning capacity is set in the second mode is predicted, and the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity is set to a value smaller than the maximum value within a range in which the predicted temperature difference does not fall outside a predetermined range; The air conditioning system of claim 1 .

6. The setting unit further sets, as a setting mode of the target air conditioning capacity, a third mode in which, when it is determined based on the estimated load and the predicted load that the absolute value of the heat load of the target space is in a third state in which the absolute value of the heat load of the target space has a minimum value over time, the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity is set to a value greater than the minimum value; The air conditioning system of claim 1 .

7. When the setting unit sets the target air conditioning capacity in the third mode, a time transition of a temperature difference, which is a value obtained by subtracting the target temperature from the space temperature, when the target air conditioning capacity is set in the third mode is predicted, and the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity is set to a value greater than the minimum value within a range in which the predicted temperature difference does not fall outside a predetermined range; 7. The air conditioning system of claim 6.

8. When the setting unit sets the target air conditioning capacity in the third mode, calculating an expected power consumption, which is an expected value of the power consumption of the air conditioner when the target air conditioning capacity is set in the third mode, and setting the absolute value of the target air conditioning capacity to a value greater than the minimum value so that the expected power consumption is minimized; 8. The air conditioning system of claim 7.

9. The setting unit monitoring the occurrence of a prediction deviation in which the absolute value of the difference between the predicted load for a future time that is a predetermined time ahead of the present and the estimated load calculated when the future time arrives is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold; setting the target air conditioning capacity in the second mode or the third mode on the condition that no deviation from the prediction has occurred in the most recent past from the present; When the deviation from the prediction occurs in the most recent past from the present, the target air conditioning capacity is set in the first mode.

7. The air conditioning system of claim 6.

10. The setting unit monitoring the occurrence of a prediction deviation in which the absolute value of the difference between the predicted load for a future time that is a predetermined time ahead of the present and the estimated load calculated when the future time arrives is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold; setting the target air conditioning capacity in the second mode or the third mode on the condition that the number of times the prediction deviation has occurred within a time range from the present to a predetermined time in the past is less than a predetermined number of times; When the number of times that the prediction deviation has occurred within a time range from the present to a predetermined time in the past is equal to or greater than a predetermined number of times, the target air conditioning capacity is set in the first mode.

7. The air conditioning system of claim 6.

11. The prediction unit Calculating the predicted load using a trained heat load prediction model that has been machine-learned to determine the relationship between the time of day in the week, month, or year in the target space and the estimated load calculated by the estimation unit at each of the times.

11. An air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The prediction unit Calculating the predicted load based on a change in the number of people in the target space.

11. An air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

13. An air conditioning method executed by a computer in an air conditioning system, comprising: an estimation step of calculating an estimated load, which is an estimate of a current heat load of the target space for maintaining a space temperature of the target space; a prediction step of calculating a predicted load, which is a predicted value of the heat load in the future a predetermined time ahead from the present; a setting step of setting a target air-conditioning capacity, which is a target value of the air-conditioning capacity that an air conditioner that air-conditions the target space should achieve in the air-conditioning operation of the target space; and In the setting step, The target air conditioning capacity is set in a first mode in which the estimated load is set to the target air conditioning capacity when it is determined based on the estimated load and the predicted load that the heat load of the target space is in a first state in which it monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time, or in a second mode in which the absolute value of the heat load of the target space is set to a value smaller than the maximum value when it is determined based on the estimated load and the predicted load that the heat load of the target space is in a second state in which the absolute value of the heat load has a maximum value over time. Air conditioning method.

14. An air conditioning method executed by a computer in an air conditioning system, comprising: an estimation step of calculating an estimated load, which is an estimate of a current heat load of the target space for maintaining a space temperature of the target space; a prediction step of calculating a predicted load, which is a predicted value of the heat load in the future a predetermined time ahead from the present; a setting step of setting a target air-conditioning capacity, which is a target value of the air-conditioning capacity that an air conditioner that air-conditions the target space should achieve in the air-conditioning operation of the target space; Equipped with In the setting step, The target air conditioning capacity is set in a first mode in which the estimated load is set to the target air conditioning capacity when it is determined based on the estimated load and the predicted load that the heat load of the target space is in a first state in which it monotonically increases or monotonically decreases over time, or in a third mode in which the absolute value of the heat load of the target space is set to a value greater than the minimum value when it is determined based on the estimated load and the predicted load that the heat load of the target space is in a third state in which the absolute value of the heat load has a minimum value over time. Air conditioning method.

15. An information output program executed by a computer, The computer an acquisition unit that acquires history information of control operations of air conditioners provided in an air conditioning system that air-conditions a target space; a report output unit that outputs time-series information regarding control operations based on the history information; It functions as the history information includes time series data of an estimated load, which is a thermal load estimated for the target space, and time series data of an air conditioning capacity achieved by the air conditioner for the target space, The report output section is a time-saving display indicating a time when power consumption is reduced, the time being estimated from the difference between the estimated load and the air-conditioning capacity for each hour; a graph showing a time transition of the estimated load; A graph showing the time transition of the air conditioning capacity; and outputting the report screen on which the above information is superimposed to a display device. Information output program.

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