Maintenance system for air conditioner

Abstract

To replace a component of an air conditioner at an appropriate time.SOLUTION: A maintenance system 90 is for an air condition which has to be replace a component. The maintenance system 90 includes an index acquisition part 11, a database 31, and an output part 13. The index acquisition part 11 acquires a deterioration index value of the component of an object air conditioner 100. A database 31 stores a deterioration index value at replacement being a deterioration index value when a component is replaced about each of a plurality of reference air conditioners 200. The output part 13 outputs a deterioration index value on the object air conditioner acquired by the index acquisition part or an indicator 75 showing being the deterioration index value together with information derived from data stored in the database 31.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a maintenance system for air conditioners that may require part replacement. [Background technology]

[0002] The system disclosed in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent No. 4134997) detects the degree of deterioration of components that make up equipment, including air conditioners, and outputs the estimated lifespan of the components. A service technician can then determine whether or not to replace the components based on the estimated lifespan of the components. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] In such systems, the estimated lifespan of a part is calculated from a degradation index value measured from the part. However, the degradation index value may not actually be a numerical value that accurately represents the lifespan of the part. Even if the degradation index value measured from the part is the same, differences in the load during use of the air conditioner or the surrounding environment, for example, can result in differences in the lifespan of the part.

[0004] To estimate the remaining lifespan of a part installed in the target air conditioner, it is important to refer to records of when parts were replaced in many other air conditioners used under various conditions, which will make it easier for service personnel to replace parts at the appropriate time. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A maintenance system according to a first aspect is for an air conditioner that may require part replacement. The maintenance system includes an index acquisition unit, a database, and an output unit. The index acquisition unit acquires deterioration index values ​​for parts of a target air conditioner. The database stores replacement deterioration index values, which are deterioration index values ​​when parts are replaced for at least each of a plurality of reference air conditioners. The output unit outputs information derived from the data stored in the database. The output unit outputs the deterioration index value or an indicator of the deterioration index value for the target air conditioner acquired by the index acquisition unit, together with the information derived from the data.

[0006] A maintenance system according to a first aspect is for an air conditioner that may require part replacement. The maintenance system includes an index acquisition unit, a database, and an output unit. The index acquisition unit acquires deterioration index values ​​for parts of a target air conditioner. The database stores replacement deterioration index values, which are deterioration index values ​​when parts are replaced for each of a plurality of reference air conditioners. The output unit outputs the deterioration index value for the target air conditioner acquired by the index acquisition unit or an indicator indicating that it is a deterioration index value, along with information derived from the data stored in the database.

[0007] With this configuration, the conditions for part replacement for the target air conditioner can be determined by referencing the track record of part replacement for multiple reference air conditioners. Therefore, part replacement for the target air conditioner can be carried out at the appropriate time, preventing sudden failures of the target air conditioner.

[0008] A maintenance system according to a second aspect is the maintenance system according to the first aspect, wherein the information derived from the data relates to replacement-time deterioration index values ​​for some of a plurality of reference air conditioners stored in the database.

[0009] According to this configuration, information extracted from a portion of the data stored in the database is output to the output unit, so that by performing an appropriate extraction process according to the purpose, the information desired by the service technician can be presented.

[0010] A maintenance system according to a third aspect is the maintenance system according to the first or second aspect, wherein the information derived from the data includes a statistical distribution, and the output unit outputs the statistical distribution as one of a histogram, a distribution curve, and a boxplot.

[0011] With this configuration, the deterioration index values ​​at the time of replacement for multiple reference air conditioners are output as a histogram, distribution curve, or box plot, allowing the service technician in charge of maintaining the target air conditioners to visually see when a large number of reference air conditioners have had their parts replaced based on the level of the deterioration index values.

[0012] A fourth aspect of the maintenance system is the maintenance system of any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the information derived from the data includes statistical values, which include at least one of a mean value, a mode value, a median value, and a standard deviation.

[0013] With this configuration, the deterioration index value for the target air conditioner is output together with the average, mode, median, or standard deviation of the replacement deterioration index values ​​of the multiple reference air conditioners. This allows the service technician to determine the timing for part replacement for the target air conditioner by referring to the performance of the reference air conditioners.

[0014] A maintenance system of a fifth aspect is a maintenance system of any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the database stores replacement deterioration index values ​​in association with air conditioner information for each of a plurality of reference air conditioners. The maintenance system further includes an input unit and an extraction unit. The input unit accepts input of air conditioner information for a target air conditioner. The extraction unit extracts replacement deterioration index values ​​for a reference air conditioner that has air conditioner information with the same content as the air conditioner information for the target air conditioner accepted by the input unit. The output unit outputs information derived from the data stored in the database that is related to the replacement deterioration index value extracted by the extraction unit.

[0015] With this configuration, the output unit does not output data on parts replacement for a reference air conditioner that has air conditioner information that differs from that of the target air conditioner. This allows the service technician to compare data on parts replacement for a reference air conditioner that has air conditioner information that is the same as that of the target air conditioner with data on the target air conditioner, allowing them to more appropriately determine when to replace parts in the target air conditioner.

[0016] A maintenance system according to a sixth aspect is the maintenance system according to the fifth aspect, further comprising a threshold calculation unit. The threshold calculation unit calculates a threshold for a deterioration index value indicating that it is desirable to replace a part, in accordance with the air conditioner information of the target air conditioner received by the input unit. The output unit outputs the threshold together with information derived from the data.

[0017] With this configuration, the output unit outputs a threshold value indicating the conditions under which it is preferable to replace a part. The threshold value is calculated based on the air conditioner information of the target air conditioner. This makes it easy for the service technician to determine whether or not to replace a part in the target air conditioner.

[0018] A maintenance system of a seventh aspect is the maintenance system of the fifth or sixth aspect, wherein the air conditioner information of the reference air conditioner includes the model of the reference air conditioner or the model of parts included in the reference air conditioner. The air conditioner information of the target air conditioner includes the model of the target air conditioner or the model of parts included in the target air conditioner.

[0019] With this configuration, the air conditioner information includes the model of the air conditioner or the model of the part. Therefore, the output unit can present data related to maintenance and replacement of a reference air conditioner of the same model as the target air conditioner, or a reference air conditioner that has the same model of part as the target air conditioner, to the service technician, making it easier to determine whether replacement is necessary.

[0020] A maintenance system of an eighth aspect is the maintenance system of the seventh aspect, wherein the air conditioner information of the reference air conditioner further includes the use of the building in which the reference air conditioner is installed or the area in which the reference air conditioner is installed. The air conditioner information of the target air conditioner further includes the use of the building in which the target air conditioner is installed and the area in which the target air conditioner is installed.

[0021] With this configuration, the air conditioner information includes the building's use (for example, office, school, hospital, nursing home, etc.) or region (for example, country, administrative division, geographical division, etc.). Therefore, it is possible to determine whether parts need to be replaced by taking into account factors such as the degree to which the air conditioner's operating environment can tolerate sudden breakdowns or the degree to which maintenance costs are desired to be reduced.

[0022] A maintenance system of a ninth aspect is a maintenance system of any one of the first aspect to the eighth aspect, wherein the deterioration index value is a value of current, vibration, sound, or temperature associated with a component suspected of deterioration, or a numerical value derived from that value.

[0023] According to this configuration, the deterioration index value is a value of current, vibration, sound, or temperature related to the part to be replaced, or a numerical value derived from these, so that the deterioration index value can be easily obtained.

[0024] A maintenance system according to a tenth aspect is the maintenance system according to the ninth aspect, wherein the component that is expected to deteriorate is a compressor, an outdoor fan, or an indoor fan.

[0025] With this configuration, the deterioration index value is a current value related to the compressor, outdoor fan, or indoor fan, making it easy for a service technician to determine whether the compressor, outdoor fan, or indoor fan in the target air conditioner needs to be replaced.

[0026] A maintenance system according to an eleventh aspect is the maintenance system according to the ninth or tenth aspect, wherein the deterioration index value includes a plurality of deterioration index values ​​corresponding to a plurality of deterioration factors of a part that is expected to deteriorate.

[0027] According to this configuration, there are multiple deterioration index values ​​corresponding to multiple deterioration factors, and therefore, by specifying the deterioration index value related to the deterioration factor of interest to the service technician, the statistical items related to that deterioration factor are output to the output unit.

[0028] A maintenance system according to a twelfth aspect is the maintenance system according to any one of the fifth aspect to the eighth aspect, wherein the input unit and the output unit are configured as a common mobile terminal.

[0029] With this configuration, the input unit and the output unit are configured as a common mobile terminal, allowing a service technician to input air conditioner information and visually understand the distribution of replacement degradation index values ​​by using the mobile terminal.

[0030] A maintenance support method according to a thirteenth aspect is for an air conditioner that may require part replacement. In the maintenance support method, a computer acquires a deterioration index value for a part of a target air conditioner. Next, in the maintenance support method, the computer acquires data stored in a database that stores replacement deterioration index values, which are deterioration index values ​​when parts are replaced for each of a plurality of reference air conditioners. Next, in the maintenance support method, the computer outputs the acquired deterioration index value for the target air conditioner or an indicator indicating that it is a deterioration index value, along with information derived from the data.

[0031] With this configuration, the computer user (service technician) can determine the conditions for part replacement for the target air conditioner by referencing the track record of part replacement for multiple reference air conditioners. This allows part replacement for the target air conditioner to be carried out at the appropriate time, preventing sudden failures of the target air conditioner.

[0032] A maintenance support program according to a fourteenth aspect causes a computer to execute the maintenance support method according to the thirteenth aspect.

[0033] With this configuration, by using a computer with a maintenance support program installed, a service technician can determine the conditions for replacing parts in the target air conditioner while referencing the track record of parts replacement in multiple reference air conditioners. This allows parts replacement in the target air conditioner to be carried out at the appropriate time, preventing sudden failures in the target air conditioner. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0034] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a maintenance system 90. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a target air conditioner 100. [Figure 3] 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an index acquisition unit 11 of a mobile terminal 10. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a list of deterioration index values. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing records stored in a database 31. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing records stored in a database 31. [Figure 7] 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of information output to an output unit 13. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a processing procedure of the maintenance system 90. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of information output to an output unit 13 according to a first modified example. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing another example of information output to the output unit 13 according to the first modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an index acquisition unit 11 of a mobile terminal 10 according to a second modified example. [Figure 12] 10 is a schematic diagram showing another configuration of the index acquisition unit 11 of the mobile terminal 10 according to the second modified example. FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of information output to an output unit 13 according to a fourth modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0035] <Embodiment> (1) Overall structure 1 shows the configuration of a maintenance system 90. The maintenance system 90 assists a service technician in determining whether or not maintenance or replacement of parts is required for a target air conditioner 100. The maintenance system 90 includes a mobile terminal 10, a network 20, and a server 30.

[0036] (2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Target air conditioner 100 2 is an air conditioner used by a target user. The target air conditioner 100 has an outdoor unit 110, an indoor unit 120, a connecting pipe 130, and a communication line 135.

[0037] The outdoor unit 110 has a compressor 111, a four-way switching valve 112, an outdoor heat exchanger 113, an outdoor fan 114, an outdoor expansion valve 115, an accumulator 116, a liquid shut-off valve 117, and a gas shut-off valve 118. The indoor unit 120 has an indoor heat exchanger 123 and an indoor fan 124. The connecting piping 130 has a liquid refrigerant pipe 131 and a gas refrigerant pipe 132. The above-listed parts constitute a refrigerant circuit that circulates the refrigerant R.

[0038] The outdoor unit 110 further includes an outdoor control unit 119. The indoor unit 120 further includes an indoor control unit 129. The outdoor control unit 119 and the indoor control unit 129, together with a communication line 135, constitute a system control unit 109. The system control unit 109 controls the actuators of the various components that make up the refrigerant circuit, and collects data from various sensors (not shown). Furthermore, the system control unit 109 communicates with the mobile terminal 10.

[0039] The target air conditioner 100 includes components that require maintenance replacement at predetermined intervals. Examples of components that require maintenance replacement include the compressor 111, the outdoor fan 114, and the indoor fan 124. There are often multiple possible causes of deterioration for each of these components that need to be replaced. Examples of deterioration causes include wear of sliding parts and insulation deterioration. If the compressor 111, the outdoor fan 114, or the indoor fan 124 could deteriorate due to these deterioration causes, these components must be replaced by a service technician.

[0040] (2-2) Mobile terminal 10 The mobile terminal 10 shown in Fig. 1 is carried by a service technician. The mobile terminal 10 obtains various data by communicating with the target air conditioner 100 and the server 30 and presents it to the service technician. When performing a maintenance inspection of the target air conditioner 100, the service technician connects the mobile terminal 10 to the target air conditioner 100 via a wired or wireless connection.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 1, the mobile terminal 10 includes an index acquisition unit 11, an input unit 12, an output unit 13, a processing unit 14, and a communication unit 15.

[0042] The index acquisition unit 11 acquires deterioration index values ​​for components of the target air conditioner 100. As shown in FIG. 3, the index acquisition unit 11 may be composed of, for example, a sensor 40 and a processing circuit 42. In the index acquisition unit 11, the sensor 40 is composed of a current probe 41. The current probe 41 measures the current flowing through a conductor L. The conductor L belongs to the electrical circuit of the target air conditioner 100 and supplies current to, for example, the motor of the compressor 111, the outdoor fan 114, or the indoor fan 124. The processing circuit 42 has an analog signal amplifier circuit 43, an AD converter 44, and an arithmetic circuit 45. The analog signal amplifier circuit 43 amplifies the analog output signal of the current probe 41. The AD converter 44 converts the amplified analog output signal into a digital signal. The arithmetic circuit 45 performs arithmetic operations on the digital signal output by the AD converter 44 to acquire data indicating the value of the current flowing through the conductor L. In terms of hardware, at least a part of the processing circuit 42 may be configured by a processor.

[0043] 1, the input unit 12 is for receiving input from a service person. The input unit 12 may be configured as, for example, a keyboard, a touch panel, a mouse, a microphone, etc. The input unit may further include a processing circuit configured by a processor or a dedicated integrated circuit.

[0044] The output unit 13 is for outputting information to a service person. The output unit 13 may be, for example, a display, an LED indicator, or a speaker. Alternatively, the output unit 13 may be a device that outputs information in a portable manner, such as a printer, a plotter, a PDF file generator, a URL generator, a QR code (registered trademark) generator, an email generator, or a text message generator.

[0045] The processing unit 14 is for performing various processes on the information and may be configured by, for example, a processor.

[0046] The communication unit 15 is for communicating with the server 30 via the network 20. The communication unit 15 may be configured by a processor or a dedicated integrated circuit.

[0047] (2-3) Network 20 The service technician also connects the mobile terminal 10 to the network 20 via a wired or wireless connection. The network 20 may take any form, but may be, for example, a wide area network (WAN) constructed using a public switched telephone network (PSTN) or the like.

[0048] (2-4) Server 30 The server 30 is connected to the network 20 by wire or wirelessly. The server 30 includes a database 31, an extraction unit 32, a threshold calculation unit 33, and a communication unit .

[0049] The database 31 stores data related to maintenance replacement that has been carried out in the past. Specifically, the database 31 stores detailed information on maintenance replacement of parts that has been carried out for a large number of reference air conditioners 200 that are different from the target air conditioner 100. The information stored in the database 31 includes deterioration index values ​​(hereinafter referred to as "deterioration index values ​​at the time of replacement") when maintenance replacement of parts was carried out for each of the large number of reference air conditioners 200.

[0050] The extraction unit 32 extracts data relating to maintenance replacement stored in the database 31 that matches the conditions input by the service technician to the input unit 12. The extraction unit 32 may be configured by a processor or a dedicated integrated circuit.

[0051] The threshold calculation unit 33 calculates a threshold value for the deterioration index value based on the data stored in the database 31, in accordance with the conditions entered by the service technician into the input unit 12. This threshold value corresponds to the condition under which it is preferable to replace a part of the target air conditioner 100. The threshold calculation unit 33 may be configured by a processor or a dedicated integrated circuit.

[0052] The communication unit 34 is for communicating with the mobile terminal 10 via the network 20. The communication unit 34 may be configured by a processor or a dedicated integrated circuit.

[0053] (3) Deterioration factors and deterioration index values Figure 4 shows the relationship between malfunctions requiring maintenance replacement and multiple deterioration index values. When a malfunction occurs in an air conditioner, there are several possible parts that need to be replaced as the cause of the malfunction. For example, the compressor, the outdoor fan, or the indoor fan.

[0054] Next, there are several possible causes of deterioration for each component. For example, in the case of a compressor, the first cause is wear on the compressor's sliding parts, such as bearings. The second cause is deterioration of areas that should maintain insulation, resulting in insufficient insulation. Furthermore, there are several possible causes of deterioration for both the outdoor fan and the indoor fan.

[0055] Furthermore, it is conceivable to use a different degradation index value indicating the degree of degradation of a part for each degradation factor of the part. For example, for a degradation factor such as wear on the compressor's sliding parts, the cumulative operating time of the target air conditioner 100 could be used as the degradation index value. Furthermore, for the same degradation factor, wear on the compressor's sliding parts, the effective value of the current flowing through the conductors supplying power to the compressor could be used as another degradation index value. Furthermore, for another degradation factor, such as compressor insulation degradation, the magnitude of the frequency component three times the fundamental frequency of the current flowing through the conductors supplying power to the compressor could be used as the degradation index value. Furthermore, similarly, multiple degradation index values ​​could be considered for the outdoor fan and the indoor fan.

[0056] (4) Data stored in database 31 5 and 6 are examples of a table 50 that constitutes the data stored in the database 31. The table 50 contains information about maintenance replacements that have been carried out in the past for a large number of reference air conditioners 200. The table 50 is made up of multiple records.

[0057] Column 51 of table 50 shown in Figure 5 stores record numbers. The record number of a given record is determined so that it does not overlap with the record numbers of other records. Column 52 stores the date and time the part was replaced. Column 53 stores the air conditioner ID for identifying the reference air conditioner 200 that underwent maintenance replacement. Column 54 stores coded names of parts replaced during maintenance work. Column 55 stores coded names of the deterioration factors that caused the part to be replaced. Column 56 stores coded names of the deterioration index value at the time of replacement. Column 57 stores the deterioration index value at the time of replacement, in other words, the deterioration index value measured immediately before the part was replaced during maintenance work.

[0058] Column 58 shown in FIG. 6 stores air conditioner information. The air conditioner information is information used as an index for extracting a group of records from database 31. Column 58 includes columns 59, 60, 61, and 62. Column 59 stores the model of the reference air conditioner 200 identified by the air conditioner ID in column 53. Column 60 stores the model of the replaced part recorded in column 54. Column 61 stores the coded use of the building in which the reference air conditioner 200 identified by the air conditioner ID in column 53 is installed. Examples of building use include office, school, hospital, and nursing home. Column 62 stores the coded region in which the reference air conditioner 200 identified by the air conditioner ID in column 53 is installed. The region may be, for example, a country, administrative division, or geographical division.

[0059] (5) Output mode 7 is an example of information output to output unit 13. In this example, output unit 13 is a display. The output content is information derived from data stored in database 31. Specifically, the output content is a graph 70 of the statistical distribution of data regarding maintenance replacements performed in the past.

[0060] The graph 70 has a vertical axis 71 indicating the magnitude of a certain type of deterioration index value, and a horizontal axis 72 indicating the frequency with which parts have been replaced in a large number of reference air conditioners 200. The statistical distribution is displayed, for example, as at least one of a histogram 73 and a distribution curve 74. Alternatively, the statistical distribution may be displayed as a box plot 77 instead of or in addition to these.

[0061] The graph 70 also displays a sign 75 representing the deterioration index value of the target air conditioner 100 acquired by the index acquisition unit 11 of the mobile terminal 10, together with the statistical distribution of the data of the reference air conditioner 200 described above.

[0062] The graph 70 also displays a threshold value 76, which indicates the magnitude of the deterioration index value at which it is determined that a part should be replaced. The threshold value 76 is calculated from data relating to maintenance replacement carried out in the past on many reference air conditioners 200. In the graph 70 of Figure 7, the deterioration index value indicator 75 for the target air conditioner 100 exceeds the threshold value 76, so the service technician can know that a part replacement is desirable.

[0063] (6) Processing Procedure FIG. 8 shows the processing steps of the maintenance system 90. In step S1, the service technician inputs air conditioner information for the target air conditioner 100 into the input unit 12 of the mobile terminal 10. In step S2, the service technician uses the input unit 12 to specify the details of the replacement deterioration index value based on the suspected deterioration factors of the target air conditioner 100. In step S3, the service technician inputs a command to the maintenance system 90 to extract data that matches the information previously input. This data extraction command may be accompanied by a condition for extracting only data that satisfies certain conditions from all data stored in the server 30. For example, the command may be accompanied by a condition that extracts only data whose replacement date and time in column 52 in FIG. 6 is newer than a predetermined date and time. In response to this command, in step S4, the mobile terminal 10 issues a data extraction command to the server 30.

[0064] In the server 30 that has received the data extraction command, the extraction unit 32 extracts records that match the air conditioner information and replacement deterioration index value specifications and the extraction conditions input by the service technician from the data stored in the database 31. In step S5, the server 30 transmits the extracted data to the mobile terminal 10. Next, in the server 30, the threshold calculation unit 33 calculates a threshold 76 by performing statistical processing on the data extracted by the extraction unit 32. In step S6, the server 30 transmits the obtained threshold 76 to the mobile terminal 10. The output unit 13 of the mobile terminal 10 outputs the statistical distribution of the extracted data and the threshold 76.

[0065] Next, the service technician sets the current probe 41 in the target air conditioner 100. Then, in step S7, the service technician inputs a measurement start command into the input unit 12. In step S8, the degradation index values ​​measured for the components of the target air conditioner 100 are acquired by the mobile terminal 10. The output unit 13 of the mobile terminal 10 outputs the measured degradation index values ​​to the graph 70 as indicators 75.

[0066] The service technician then determines whether or not to replace the part based on the indicator 75 and threshold value 76 displayed on the graph 70. If the service technician has replaced the part, in step S9 the service technician inputs into the input unit 12 that the part replacement has been completed. In step S10, the mobile terminal 10 transmits the deterioration index value measured in the target air conditioner 100 to the server 30. The server 30 saves the received deterioration index value in the database 31 as performance data for maintenance replacement of the new reference air conditioner 200.

[0067] (7) Features (7-1) By using the maintenance system 90, a service technician can determine the conditions under which parts should be replaced in the target air conditioner 100 by referring to the track record of parts replacement in multiple reference air conditioners 200. Therefore, parts replacement in the target air conditioner 100 can be carried out at the appropriate time, preventing sudden breakdowns in the target air conditioner 100.

[0068] (7-2) Information extracted from a portion of the data stored in the database 31 is output to the output unit 13. Therefore, by performing an appropriate extraction process depending on the purpose, it is possible to present the information that the service person is looking for.

[0069] (7-3) The deterioration index values ​​at the time of replacement of multiple reference air conditioners 200 are output as a histogram 73, a distribution curve 74, or a box and whisker plot 77. Therefore, the serviceman in charge of maintaining the target air conditioners 100 can visually know at what level of deterioration index values ​​a large number of reference air conditioners 200 have undergone part replacement.

[0070] (7-4) The output unit 13 does not output data at the time of part replacement for the reference air conditioner 200, which has air conditioner information that differs from that of the target air conditioner 100. Therefore, the service technician can compare the data at the time of part replacement for the reference air conditioner 200, which has air conditioner information that is the same as that of the target air conditioner 100, with the data for the target air conditioner 100, and can more appropriately determine when to replace parts in the target air conditioner 100.

[0071] (7-5) A threshold value 76 indicating the conditions under which it is preferable to replace a part is output to the output unit 13. The threshold value 76 is calculated based on the air conditioner information of the target air conditioner 100. This makes it easy for the service technician to determine whether or not a part should be replaced for the target air conditioner 100.

[0072] (7-6) The air conditioner information includes the model of the air conditioner or the model of the parts. Therefore, the output unit 13 can present the service technician with data related to maintenance and replacement of a reference air conditioner 200 of the same model as the target air conditioner 100, or a reference air conditioner 200 that has parts of the same model as the target air conditioner 100, making it easier for them to determine whether replacement is necessary.

[0073] (7-7) Air conditioner information includes the building's use (for example, office, school, hospital, nursing home, etc.) or region (for example, country, administrative division, geographical division, etc.). Therefore, the need for part replacement can be determined taking into account factors such as the degree to which the air conditioner's operating environment can tolerate sudden breakdowns or the degree to which maintenance costs are desired to be reduced.

[0074] (7-8) The degradation index value is a current value such as the "effective value" related to the part to be replaced, or a numerical value derived from it such as the "frequency component three times the fundamental frequency." Therefore, the degradation index value is easy to obtain.

[0075] (7-9) The deterioration index value is, for example, a current value related to the compressor 111, the outdoor fan 114, or the indoor fan 124. Therefore, it is easy for a service technician to determine whether the compressor 111, the outdoor fan 114, or the indoor fan 124 in the target air conditioner 100 needs to be replaced.

[0076] (7-10) There are multiple deterioration index values ​​corresponding to multiple deterioration factors. Therefore, when a service technician specifies a deterioration index value related to a deterioration factor of interest, the statistical items related to that deterioration factor are output to the output unit 13.

[0077] (7-11) The input unit 12 and the output unit 13 are configured as a common mobile terminal 10. Therefore, by using the mobile terminal 10, a service technician can input air conditioner information and visually understand the distribution of replacement deterioration index values.

[0078] <Modifications of the embodiment> (8) Variations (8-1) First Modification In the above-described embodiment, the output unit 13 outputs a statistical distribution graph 70 as information derived from data related to maintenance replacement of the reference air conditioner 200 stored in the database 31. The statistical distribution is output as, for example, a histogram 73, a distribution curve 74, or a box plot 77.

[0079] Alternatively, the output unit 13 may output statistical values ​​81 as information derived from data related to maintenance replacement of the reference air conditioner 200 stored in the database 31. Fig. 9 shows another example of information output to the output unit 13. In this example, the output unit 13 is also a display. The statistical values ​​81 include, for example, at least one of the mean, mode, median, and standard deviation.

[0080] According to this configuration, the deterioration index value for the target air conditioner 100 is output together with the average value, mode, median, or standard deviation of the deterioration index values ​​at the time of replacement for a plurality of reference air conditioners 200. Therefore, the service technician can determine the timing for replacing parts for the target air conditioner 100 by referring to the track record of maintenance replacement for the reference air conditioners 200.

[0081] Alternatively, the output unit 13 may display numerical values ​​such as part replacement frequency 82 or replacement rate as information derived from data related to maintenance replacement of the reference air conditioner 200 stored in the database 31. Fig. 10 is yet another example of information output to the output unit 13, which includes a display of replacement frequency 82. The replacement frequency 82 is, for example, the actual number of times a part has been replaced within a certain range of deterioration index values ​​for a large number of reference air conditioners 200.

[0082] Alternatively, the output unit 13 may display a portion of the records stored in the database 31, or information extracted from that portion, as information derived from data regarding maintenance replacement of the reference air conditioner 200 stored in the database 31.

[0083] (8-2) Second Modification In the above-described embodiment, the sensor 40 of the index acquisition unit 11 is configured by the current probe 41. Alternatively, the sensor 40 may be, for example, a vibration sensor 46, an acoustic sensor, a temperature sensor 47, a humidity sensor, or an optical sensor.

[0084] 11, the sensor 40 of the index acquisition unit 11 is configured by a vibration sensor 46. The vibration sensor 46 can measure the magnitude of vibration of the compressor 111, for example.

[0085] 12, the sensor 40 of the index acquisition unit 11 is configured by a temperature sensor 47. The temperature sensor 47 can measure the temperature of a sliding part of the compressor 111, for example.

[0086] According to this configuration, the deterioration index value is a vibration, sound, or temperature value related to the part to be replaced, or a numerical value derived from these, so that the deterioration index value can be easily obtained.

[0087] (8-3) Third Modification In the above-described embodiment and the second modified example, the index acquisition unit 11 is composed of a sensor 40 and a processing circuit 42. Alternatively, the index acquisition unit 11 may be composed of a circuit that communicates with the target air conditioner 100. In this case, for example, the target air conditioner 100 acquires a deterioration index value using its own detection circuit or calculation circuit. Next, the index acquisition unit 11 receives the deterioration index value sent from the target air conditioner 100.

[0088] (8-4) Fourth Modification In the above-described embodiment, the information derived from the data related to maintenance replacement output by the output unit 13 (for example, the statistical distribution graph 70) relates to the content of one type of replacement deterioration index value designated by the service technician in step S1. Alternatively, the information output by the output unit 13 may relate to multiple types of replacement deterioration index values ​​or all types of replacement deterioration index values.

[0089] 13 shows an example in which the output unit 13 displays information relating to the contents of four types of deterioration index values ​​in four display areas 91 to 94. Of these, for the deterioration index value displayed in display area 92, the deterioration index value indicator 75 for the target air conditioner 100 exceeds the threshold value 76, so the service technician can know that it is advisable to replace the corresponding part.

[0090] Alternatively, the output unit 13 may enlarge and display only the content shown in the display area 92 in Figure 13 to fill the entire screen, in order to emphasize the deterioration index value in the display area 92 that can be understood to be the one that most urgently requires maintenance replacement among the four types of deterioration index values.

[0091] (8-5) Fifth Modification In the above-described embodiment, the index acquiring unit 11 includes the sensor 40 and the processing circuit 42. Alternatively, the index acquiring unit 11 may include only the sensor 40. For example, when the sensor 40 includes an AD converter, or when the processor constituting the processing unit 14 includes an AD converter, it may be possible to directly connect the sensor 40 to the processing unit 14.

[0092] (8-6) Sixth Modification In the above-described embodiment, the extraction unit 32 and the threshold calculation unit 33 are included in the server 30. Alternatively, the extraction unit 32 and the threshold calculation unit 33 may be included in the processing unit 14 of the mobile terminal 10. In this case, the extraction unit 32 and the threshold calculation unit 33 may be configured by a processor in terms of hardware.

[0093] (8-7) Seventh Modification In the above-described embodiment, the input unit 12 is configured as a keyboard, touch panel, mouse, microphone, etc. Alternatively, the input unit 12 may be configured as a circuit that communicates with the target air conditioner 100. In this case, the input unit 12 receives air conditioner information sent from the target air conditioner 100.

[0094] Alternatively, the input unit 12 may be configured as a barcode reader, a QR code (registered trademark) reader, an RFID reader, etc. In this case, the input unit 12 acquires air conditioner information by reading a barcode, QR code (registered trademark), RFID tag, etc. attached to the target air conditioner 100.

[0095] (8-8) Eighth Modification In the above-described embodiment, there are no particular limitations on the hardware configuration of the mobile terminal 10 having the index acquisition unit 11, input unit 12, output unit 13, processing unit 14, and communication unit 15. In this regard, as a specific example, the mobile terminal 10 may be configured by a computer. In this case, the computer has a processor and memory, and a maintenance support program is stored in the memory. The processor executes the maintenance support program to realize the functions of the index acquisition unit 11, input unit 12, output unit 13, processing unit 14, and communication unit 15, and to execute the maintenance support method. The maintenance support method includes, for example, the following steps.

[0096] [Step 1: Obtaining indicators] The deterioration index values ​​of the parts of the target air conditioner 100 are acquired by the mobile terminal 10, which is a computer.

[0097] [Second step: Data acquisition] The mobile terminal 10 acquires data stored in the database 31, which stores the deterioration index value at the time of replacement, which is the deterioration index value when parts are replaced for each of the multiple reference air conditioners 200.

[0098] [Third step: Output] The mobile terminal 10 outputs the deterioration index value for the target air conditioner 100 acquired by the mobile terminal 10, or a sign 75 expressing that deterioration index value, together with information derived from the data acquired in the second step.

[0099] <Conclusion> Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 10: Mobile devices 11: Index acquisition part 12: Input section 13: Output section 14: Processing section 15: Communications Department 20: Network 30: Server 31: Database 32:Extraction part 33: Threshold calculation unit 34: Communications Department 40: Sensor 50: Table 70:Graph 73: Histogram 74:Distribution curve 75:Sign 76: Threshold 77: Boxplot 81:Statistical figures 82: Replacement frequency 90: Maintenance System 100: Target air conditioner 200: Reference air conditioner L: Conductor [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0101] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 4134997

Claims

1. A maintenance system (90) for an air conditioner that may require replacement of a part, comprising: an index acquisition unit (11) that acquires a deterioration index value of the component of the target air conditioner (100); a database (31) that stores a replacement deterioration index value, which is the deterioration index value when the replacement of the part is performed for each of a plurality of reference air conditioners (200); an output unit (13) that outputs the deterioration index value for the target air conditioner acquired by the index acquisition unit or a sign (75) indicating the deterioration index value, together with information derived from the data accumulated in the database; Equipped with Maintenance system (90).

2. the information derived from the data relates to the replacement deterioration index values ​​for some of the plurality of reference air conditioners stored in the database; The maintenance system of claim 1 .

3. the information derived from the data includes a statistical distribution; The output unit outputs the statistical distribution as one of a histogram (73), a distribution curve (74), and a box-and-whisker plot (77). The maintenance system of claim 1 .

4. The information derived from the data includes statistical values ​​(81); The statistical values ​​include at least one of an average value, a mode value, a median value, and a standard deviation. The maintenance system of claim 1 .

5. the database stores the replacement deterioration index value in association with air conditioner information for each of the plurality of reference air conditioners; The maintenance system includes: an input unit (12) that receives input of air conditioner information of the target air conditioner; an extraction unit (32) that extracts the replacement deterioration index value of the reference air conditioner having the air conditioner information of the target air conditioner received by the input unit; Furthermore, the output unit outputs information derived from the data stored in the database that is related to the replacement deterioration index value extracted by the extraction unit. The maintenance system of claim 1 .

6. a threshold calculation unit (33) that calculates a threshold value (76) of the deterioration index value indicating that it is preferable to replace the part in accordance with the air conditioner information of the target air conditioner received by the input unit, The output unit outputs the threshold value together with information derived from the data. The maintenance system according to claim 5 .

7. The air conditioner information of the reference air conditioner is The model of the reference air conditioner, or the type of the parts included in the reference air conditioner; Including, The air conditioner information of the target air conditioner is The model of the target air conditioner, or The model of the part included in the target air conditioner, Including, The maintenance system according to claim 5 or 6.

8. The air conditioner information of the reference air conditioner is The use of the building in which the reference air conditioner is installed, or the region in which the reference air conditioner is installed; further comprising The air conditioner information of the target air conditioner is The purpose of the building in which the target air conditioner is installed, and The area where the target air conditioner is installed, further comprising: The maintenance system of claim 7.

9. The deterioration index value is a value of current, vibration, sound, or temperature associated with the component suspected of deterioration, or a numerical value derived from the value. A maintenance system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

10. The component that is assumed to be deteriorated is a compressor, an outdoor fan, or an indoor fan. The maintenance system of claim 9.

11. the deterioration index value includes a plurality of deterioration index values ​​corresponding to a plurality of deterioration factors of the component in which the deterioration is assumed, The maintenance system of claim 9.

12. The input unit and the output unit are configured as a common mobile terminal (10). The maintenance system according to claim 5 or 6.

13. A maintenance support method for an air conditioner that may require part replacement, comprising: A computer (10) acquires a deterioration index value of the part of the target air conditioner (100), The computer acquires data stored in a database (31) that stores replacement deterioration index values, which are the deterioration index values ​​when the replacement of the parts is performed for each of a plurality of reference air conditioners (200); The computer outputs the deterioration index value for the target air conditioner acquired by the computer or a sign (75) indicating the deterioration index value, together with information derived from the data. Maintenance support method.

14. A maintenance support program that causes the computer (10) to execute the maintenance support method according to claim 13.

Images