Air conditioning system

Abstract

To provide an air conditioning system that can restrain an energy loss and a reduction in comfort of a user.SOLUTION: An air conditioning system is installed in a building comprising a first space and a second space, and comprises: an air conditioning device installed in the first space for heating or cooling the first space; an air blowing device provided in an air passage connecting the first space and the second space for sending air in the first space to the second space; an air quality sensor installed in the second space for measuring air quality information of the second space; and a control device for controlling the air blowing device on the basis of the air quality information. When it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor, the control device stops the air blowing device, changes a control mode for the air blowing device, or controls the air blowing device by using information related to the air quality information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioning system that provides air conditioning and ventilation within a building. [Background technology]

[0002] It has been known that in air conditioning systems that provide air conditioning and ventilation in buildings such as houses, the thermal environment within a building is improved by sending air from an air-conditioned space where an air conditioner is installed to a non-air-conditioned space where no air conditioner is installed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an air conditioning system in which an inter-room fan installed on the side wall of adjacent rooms blows air from one room to the other, transferring heat and moisture. The air conditioning system in Patent Document 1 proposes providing a sensor in the destination room that measures temperature, humidity, etc., and controlling the operation of the inter-room fan based on the measurement results. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-90824 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the air conditioning system of Patent Document 1, if the temperature or humidity of the destination room cannot be obtained due to sensor failure or communication failure, there is a risk of energy loss due to the transport of excess air and a decrease in comfort for the users in the destination room.

[0005] The present disclosure is intended to solve the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide an air conditioning system that can suppress energy loss and a decrease in user comfort. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The air conditioning system of the present disclosure is an air conditioning system installed in a building having a first space and a second space, and includes an air conditioner installed in the first space for heating or cooling the first space, a blower provided in an air duct connecting the first space and the second space for sending air from the first space to the second space, an air quality sensor installed in the second space for measuring air quality information of the second space, and a control device for controlling the blower based on the air quality information, and when the control device determines that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor, it stops the blower, changes the control mode of the blower, or controls the blower using information related to the air quality information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the air conditioning system of the present disclosure, if it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor, the air blower can be stopped, the control mode of the air blower can be changed, or the air blower can be controlled using information related to air quality information, thereby reducing energy loss and reducing user comfort. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioning system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a control block diagram of an air conditioning system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of air blowing control in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a control block diagram of an air conditioning system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of air blowing control in the second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a control block diagram of an air conditioning system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of air blowing control in the third embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of air blowing control in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 9]FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioning system according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 10] 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of air blowing control in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a control block diagram of an air conditioning system according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of air blowing control in the sixth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, identical or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted or simplified as appropriate. Furthermore, the shape, size, arrangement, etc. of the configurations shown in each drawing may be modified as appropriate within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0010] Embodiment 1 Fig. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioning system 100 according to embodiment 1. The air conditioning system 100 of embodiment 1 is installed in a building 200 such as a house. Fig. 1 shows a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the building 200 and each component of the air conditioning system 100 installed in the building 200. The configuration and arrangement of the air conditioning system 100 of this embodiment will be described using Fig. 1.

[0011] The air conditioning system 100 comprises an air conditioning unit 11 and an air supply unit 12 installed in a first space R1 of a building 200, an air quality sensor 21 installed in a second space R2, a blower 41 installed in an air duct 4 connecting the first space R1 and the second space R2, and a control unit 5.

[0012] The first space R1 is, for example, a living room. As shown in FIG. 1 , the air conditioner 11 is installed on a wall of the first space R1. The air conditioner 11 may be installed on the ceiling of the first space R1 or may be a floor-standing type. The air conditioner 11 includes a refrigerant circuit consisting of a compressor, a four-way valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion valve, and an indoor heat exchanger, and heats or cools the first space R1. A control unit (not shown) of the air conditioner 11 controls the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 11 by changing the operating frequency of the compressor, the air volume of the outdoor fan that sends air to the outdoor heat exchanger, and the air volume of the indoor fan that supplies air to the outdoor heat exchanger. The control unit of the air conditioner 11 controls the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 11 so that the temperature in the first space R1 becomes the set temperature set by the user.

[0013] As shown in Figure 1, the air supply device 12 is provided on the wall of the first space R1. The air supply device 12 is an air supply port that allows outside air to flow into the first space R1. The air supply device 12 may also include an air supply fan for drawing the outside air into the first space R1.

[0014] The second space R2 is, for example, a changing room. The air quality sensor 21 may be a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the second space R2, a humidity sensor that measures humidity, a CO2 sensor that measures the carbon dioxide concentration, or a dust sensor that measures the amount of PM2.5 or pollen. The temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide concentration, or dust amount measured by the air quality sensor 21 is referred to as "air quality information." The air quality sensor 21 measures the air quality information of the second space R2 at preset time intervals (for example, 10 minutes) and transmits the information to the control device 5.

[0015] As shown in Fig. 1, air passage 4, which is formed by a duct, is provided above the ceiling between first space R1 and second space R2. Air intake 42 of air passage 4 is provided in the ceiling of first space R1. Air outlet 43 of air passage 4 is provided in the ceiling of second space R2. Of air passage 4, the section from air intake 42 to blower 41 is referred to as first air passage 4A, and the section from blower 41 to blower 43 is referred to as second air passage 4B.

[0016] The blower 41 is installed in the air passage 4 and transports air from the first space R1 to the second space R2. The blower 41 is, for example, a sirocco fan. When the blower 41 operates, air is drawn in from the first air passage 4A and blown out into the second air passage 4B. The blower 41 is equipped with a motor and an inverter (not shown), and the rotation speed of the blower 41 is variably controlled to control the amount of air blown from the first space R1 to the second space R2.

[0017] The control device 5 is a computer having a processor such as a CPU and a memory. The control device 5 is connected to the air quality sensor 21 and the blower 41 via wired or wireless communication, and controls the operation of the blower 41 based on air quality information measured by the air quality sensor 21. Although the control device 5 is provided in the second space R2 in FIG. 1, it may be provided in the first space R1, or in a space different from the first space R1 and the second space R2. The control device 5 may be an independent device, or may be configured in the same device as the control unit of the air conditioner 11 or the blower 41.

[0018] Fig. 2 is a control block diagram of the air conditioning system 100 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the control device 5 has an error determination unit 51 and an air blow control unit 52. The error determination unit 51 and the air blow control unit 52 are functional units that are realized by a processor of the control device 5 executing a program. Alternatively, at least one of the error determination unit 51 and the air blow control unit 52 may be realized by a processing circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA.

[0019] The error determination unit 51 receives air quality information of the second space R2 from the air quality sensor 21 and transmits it to the air blow control unit 52. The error determination unit 51 also determines whether an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21 based on whether air quality information has been received from the air quality sensor 21, and transmits the determination result to the air blow control unit 52.

[0020] The airflow control unit 52 operates, stops, or controls the air volume of the air blower 41 based on the air quality information of the second space R2 received from the error determination unit 51 and the error determination result. The airflow control by the airflow control unit 52 will be described below.

[0021] FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the flow of air blowing control in the first embodiment. The air blowing control shown in FIG. 3 is performed by the control device 5. It is assumed that the air blowing device 41 is operating when the air blowing control shown in FIG. 3 starts. As shown in FIG. 3, first, the error determination unit 51 of the control device 5 determines whether or not air quality information has been received from the air quality sensor 21 (S1). If air quality information has not been received (S1: NO), the error determination unit 51 determines whether or not the elapsed time t is equal to or greater than a first determination time t1 (S2). The elapsed time t is the time elapsed since the previous reception of air quality information. It is assumed that the first determination time t1 is set to be longer than the time interval (for example, 10 minutes) at which the air quality sensor 21 measures and transmits the air quality information to the control device 5.

[0022] If the elapsed time t is less than the first determination time t1 (S2: NO), the process returns to step S1. On the other hand, if the elapsed time t is equal to or greater than the first determination time t1 (S2: YES), the error determination unit 51 transmits a determination result that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21 to the air blowing control unit 52, and the air blowing control unit 52 stops the air blower 41 (S3). Here, if the air blower 41 is operating, the air blower 41 is stopped, and if the air blower 41 is stopped, the air blower 41 remains stopped. Then, the process returns to step S1.

[0023] If an error occurs in the air quality sensor 21 itself, or if a failure occurs in communication between the air quality sensor 21 and the control device 5, the control device 5 will not be able to receive air quality information from the air quality sensor 21 within the first determination time t1. Therefore, as described above, if the error determination unit 51 does not receive air quality information from the air quality sensor 21 within the first determination time t1, it determines that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21 and stops the blower device 41.

[0024] On the other hand, if air quality information has been received from the air quality sensor 21 (S1: YES), the error determination unit 51 resets the elapsed time t and resumes measuring the elapsed time t (S4). Then, the air blowing control unit 52 determines whether the received air quality information satisfies a stop condition for the air blower 41 (S5). The stop condition for the air blower 41 is, for example, when the temperature in the second space R2 is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold temperature (winter) or equal to or lower than a predetermined threshold temperature (summer), or when the carbon dioxide concentration in the second space R2 is equal to or lower than a predetermined threshold concentration.

[0025] If the received air quality information satisfies the stop condition for the blower 41 (S5: YES), the air blowing control unit 52 stops the blower 41 (S3) and returns to the processing of step S1. On the other hand, if the received air quality information does not satisfy the stop condition for the blower 41 (S5: NO), the air blowing control unit 52 operates the blower 41 (S6). Here, if the blower 41 is operating, the operation of the blower 41 continues, and if the blower 41 is stopped, the blower 41 is operated. The air blowing control unit 52 may also change the air volume of the blower 41 depending on the air quality information. Thereafter, the processing returns to the processing of step S1, and the subsequent processing is repeated.

[0026] As described above, in the air conditioning system 100 of this embodiment, if it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21, abnormal control based on abnormal data can be prevented by stopping the blower 41. This makes it possible to suppress energy loss and a decrease in user comfort due to excessive air transport to the second space R2.

[0027] Embodiment 2 An air conditioning system 100A according to the second embodiment will be described. The air conditioning system 100A according to the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the configuration of the control device 5A and the air blowing control of the air blower 41. The other configurations of the air conditioning system 100A according to the second embodiment are the same as those according to the first embodiment.

[0028] Fig. 4 is a control block diagram of an air conditioning system 100A according to embodiment 2. As shown in Fig. 4, a control device 5A in the air conditioning system 100A of this embodiment has an operation unit 53 and a display unit 54 in addition to an error determination unit 51 and an air blow control unit 52.

[0029] Operation unit 53 is a switch or the like that is operated to operate or stop blower device 41 or to control the air volume during operation. In this embodiment, blower device 41 controls airflow in either an automatic control mode in which it is automatically controlled in accordance with air quality information measured by air quality sensor 21, or a manual control mode in which it is manually controlled by the user via operation unit 53.

[0030] Display unit 54 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays a notification regarding the air blowing control. In the present embodiment, if it is determined that an error has occurred in air quality sensor 21, the control mode of air blower 41 is switched to the manual control mode, and display unit 54 displays a notification regarding the switch in the control mode.

[0031] Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of air blowing control in the second embodiment. The air blowing control shown in Fig. 5 is performed by the control device 5A. It is also assumed that the air blowing device 41 is operating in the automatic control mode when the air blowing control shown in Fig. 5 starts. As shown in Fig. 5, first, the error determination unit 51 of the control device 5A determines whether or not air quality information has been received from the air quality sensor 21 (S21). If air quality information has not been received (S21: NO), the error determination unit 51 determines whether the elapsed time t is equal to or greater than a first determination time t1 (S22).

[0032] If the elapsed time t is less than the first determination time t1 (S22: NO), the process returns to step S21. On the other hand, if the elapsed time t is equal to or greater than the first determination time t1 (S22: YES), the error determination unit 51 transmits a determination result that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21 to the air blowing control unit 52, and the air blowing control unit 52 switches the control mode of the air blower 41 to the manual control mode (S23). That is, in this embodiment, even if it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21, the operation of the air blower 41 is not stopped, but continues in the same state as before the error occurred.

[0033] Then, error determination unit 51 notifies the user that the control mode of blower 41 has been switched to the manual control mode (S24). Here, a message notifying that the control mode of blower 41 has been switched to the manual control mode is displayed on display unit 54. Thereafter, blower control unit 52 controls the operation, stop, and air volume of blower 41 according to the control content input via operation unit 53.

[0034] On the other hand, if air quality information has been received from air quality sensor 21 (S21: YES), error determination unit 51 resets elapsed time t and resumes measuring elapsed time t (S25). Then, air blow control unit 52 determines whether the received air quality information satisfies a stop condition for air blower 41 (S26). The stop condition for air blower 41 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0035] If the received air quality information satisfies the stop condition for the blower 41 (S26: YES), the air blowing control unit 52 stops the blower 41 (S27) and returns to the processing of step S21. On the other hand, if the received air quality information does not satisfy the stop condition for the blower 41 (S26: NO), the air blowing control unit 52 operates the blower 41 (S28). Here, if the blower 41 is operating, the operation of the blower 41 continues, and if the blower 41 is stopped, the blower 41 is operated. The air blowing control unit 52 may also change the air volume of the blower 41 depending on the air quality information. Thereafter, the processing returns to the processing of step S21, and the subsequent processing is repeated.

[0036] As described above, in the air conditioning system 100A of this embodiment, when it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21, the air blower 41 is switched to manual control mode while maintaining the operating state of the air blower 41, and the user is notified that the control mode has been changed. This allows the user to arbitrarily control the airflow of the air blower 41, and by maintaining the operation of the air blower 41, it is possible to prevent a loss of comfort in the second space R2. As a result, it is possible to prevent energy loss and a decrease in user comfort due to excessive transport of air to the second space R2.

[0037] In the above, the control device 5A is configured to have the operation unit 53 and the display unit 54, but this is not limiting, and the operation unit 53 and the display unit 54 may be provided separately from the control device 5A. For example, the operation unit 53 and the display unit 54 may be provided in a remote controller capable of wired or wireless communication with the air blower 41 and the control device 5A, or in a communication terminal such as a smartphone capable of communicating with the air blower 41 and the control device 5A via a network. Furthermore, the operation unit 53 and the display unit 54 may each be provided as separate devices and configured to communicate with the air blower 41 and the control device 5A.

[0038] Embodiment 3 An air conditioning system 100B according to the third embodiment will be described. The air conditioning system 100B according to the third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the configuration of the control device 5B and the air blowing control of the air blower 41. The other configurations of the air conditioning system 100B according to the third embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0039] Fig. 6 is a control block diagram of an air conditioning system 100B according to Embodiment 3. As shown in Fig. 6, a control device 5B in the air conditioning system 100B of this embodiment has a memory unit 55 in addition to an error determination unit 51 and an air blow control unit 52.

[0040] The storage unit 55 is, for example, a non-volatile semiconductor memory such as a ROM or a flash memory, a volatile semiconductor memory such as a RAM, an HDD, or an SSD. The storage unit 55 stores air quality information previously received from the air quality sensor 21 along with the time of reception. The storage unit 55 may be provided separately from the control device 5B.

[0041] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of air blowing control in the third embodiment. The air blowing control shown in FIG. 7 is performed by the control device 5B. It is also assumed that the air blowing device 41 is operating when the air blowing control shown in FIG. 7 starts. As shown in FIG. 7, first, the error determination unit 51 of the control device 5B determines whether or not air quality information has been received from the air quality sensor 21 (S31). If air quality information has not been received (S31: NO), the error determination unit 51 determines whether the elapsed time t is equal to or greater than a first determination time t1 (S32). In this embodiment, the elapsed time t is either the time elapsed since the previous reception of air quality information from the air quality sensor 21, or the time elapsed since it was previously determined that past air quality information exists in the memory unit 55.

[0042] If the elapsed time t is less than the first determination time t1 (S32: NO), the process returns to step S31. On the other hand, if the elapsed time t is equal to or greater than the first determination time t1 (S32: YES), the error determination unit 51 determines whether past air quality information is stored in the memory unit 55 (S33). If past air quality information is not stored in the memory unit 55 (S33: NO), the error determination unit 51 transmits a determination result that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21 to the air blowing control unit 52, and the air blowing control unit 52 stops the air blower 41 (S34). Here, if the air blower 41 is operating, the air blower 41 is stopped, and if the air blower 41 is stopped, the air blower 41 remains stopped. Then, the process returns to step S31.

[0043] If past air quality information is stored in the memory unit 55 (S33: YES) or if air quality information is received from the air quality sensor 21 (S31: YES), the error determination unit 51 resets the elapsed time t and resumes measuring the elapsed time t (S35). Then, the air blowing control unit 52 determines whether the air quality information satisfies the stop condition for the air blowing device 41 (S36). Here, if the air quality information is received from the air quality sensor 21 (if S31 is YES), the air blowing control unit 52 determines whether the received air quality information satisfies the stop condition. On the other hand, if air quality information is not received from the air quality sensor 21 but past air quality information is stored in the memory unit 55 (if S33 is YES), the air blowing control unit 52 determines whether the latest air quality information among the past air quality information stored in the memory unit 55 satisfies the stop condition for the air blowing device 41. The stop condition for the air blowing device 41 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0044] If the air quality information satisfies the stop condition for the blower 41 (S36: YES), the air blowing control unit 52 stops the blower 41 (S34) and returns to the processing of step S31. On the other hand, if the air quality information does not satisfy the stop condition for the blower 41 (S36: NO), the air blowing control unit 52 operates the blower 41 (S37). Here, if the blower 41 is operating, the operation of the blower 41 continues, and if the blower 41 is stopped, the blower 41 is operated. The air blowing control unit 52 may also change the air volume of the blower 41 depending on the air quality information received from the air quality sensor 21 or past air quality information. Thereafter, the processing returns to the processing of step S31, and the subsequent processing is repeated.

[0045] As described above, in the air conditioning system 100B of this embodiment, when it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21, the air blower 41 is controlled using past air quality information obtained before the error occurred. This maintains the operation of the air blower 41, thereby preventing a loss of comfort in the second space R2 and preventing energy loss and a decrease in user comfort due to excessive air transport to the second space R2.

[0046] Embodiment 4 An air conditioning system 100B according to the fourth embodiment will be described. The air conditioning system 100B according to the fourth embodiment differs from the air conditioning system 100B according to the third embodiment in the air blowing control of the air blower 41. The configuration of the air conditioning system 100B according to the fourth embodiment is the same as that of the third embodiment.

[0047] Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of air blowing control in the fourth embodiment. The air blowing control shown in Fig. 8 is performed by the control device 5B. It is also assumed that the air blowing device 41 is operating when the air blowing control shown in Fig. 8 starts. As shown in Fig. 8, first, the error determination unit 51 of the control device 5B determines whether or not air quality information has been received from the air quality sensor 21 (S41). If air quality information has not been received (S41: NO), the error determination unit 51 determines whether the elapsed time t is equal to or greater than a first determination time t1 (S42).

[0048] If the elapsed time t is less than the first determination time t1 (S42: NO), the process returns to step S41. On the other hand, if the elapsed time t is equal to or greater than the first determination time t1 (S42: YES), the error determination unit 51 determines whether past air quality information is stored in the memory unit 55 (S43). If past air quality information is not stored in the memory unit 55 (S43: NO), the error determination unit 51 transmits a determination result that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21 to the air blowing control unit 52, and the air blowing control unit 52 stops the air blower 41 (S45). Here, if the air blower 41 is operating, the air blower 41 is stopped, and if the air blower 41 is stopped, the air blower 41 remains stopped. Then, the process returns to step S41.

[0049] If past air quality information is stored in memory unit 55 (S43: YES), error determination unit 51 determines whether the storage time tp of the latest air quality information from the past air quality information stored in memory unit 55 is equal to or longer than second determination time t2 (e.g., one hour) (S44). Storage time tp is the time that has elapsed since the latest air quality information from the past air quality information stored in memory unit 55 was stored in memory unit 55, and is calculated from the current time and the time the latest air quality information was received.

[0050] If the storage time tp is equal to or greater than the second determination time t2 (S44: YES), the air blowing control unit 52 stops the air blowing device 41 (S45). Here, if the air blowing device 41 is operating, the air blowing device 41 is stopped, and if the air blowing device 41 is stopped, the air blowing device 41 remains stopped. Then, the process returns to step S41.

[0051] If the error in the air quality sensor 21 continues for a long time, the latest air quality information among the past air quality information stored in the memory unit 55 is old and may differ from the current air quality information for the second space R2. Therefore, in step S44, it is determined whether the latest air quality information among the past air quality information stored in the memory unit 55 is old, and if it is old, the blower 41 is stopped so that air blowing control based on the old air quality information is not performed.

[0052] If the storage time tp is less than the second determination time t2 (S44: NO), or if air quality information has been received from the air quality sensor 21 (S41: YES), the error determination unit 51 resets the elapsed time t and resumes measuring the elapsed time t (S46). Then, the air blow control unit 52 determines whether the air quality information satisfies the stop condition for the air blower 41 (S47). Here, as in the third embodiment, the air blow control unit 52 determines whether the air quality information received from the air quality sensor 21, or the latest air quality information among the past air quality information stored in the memory unit 55, satisfies the stop condition for the air blower 41. The stop condition for the air blower 41 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0053] If the air quality information satisfies the stop condition for the blower 41 (S47: YES), the air blowing control unit 52 stops the blower 41 (S45) and returns to the processing of step S41. On the other hand, if the air quality information does not satisfy the stop condition for the blower 41 (S47: NO), the air blowing control unit 52 operates the blower 41 (S48). Here, if the blower 41 is operating, the operation of the blower 41 continues, and if the blower 41 is stopped, the blower 41 is operated. The air blowing control unit 52 may also change the air volume of the blower 41 depending on the air quality information received from the air quality sensor 21 or past air quality information. Thereafter, the processing returns to the processing of step S41, and the subsequent processing is repeated.

[0054] As described above, in the air conditioning system 100B of this embodiment, when it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21, the blower 41 is controlled using past air quality information. This maintains the operation of the blower 41, thereby preventing a loss of comfort in the second space R2. Furthermore, by stopping the blower 41 when the past air quality information is old, it is possible to prevent energy loss and a decrease in user comfort due to excessive transport of air to the second space R2 when the air quality information for the second space R2 has changed.

[0055] Embodiment 5 An air conditioning system 100C according to embodiment 5 will be described. The air conditioning system 100C according to embodiment 5 differs from embodiment 1 in that it includes an outdoor sensor 6 and in the air blowing control of the air blower 41. Other configurations of the air conditioning system 100C according to embodiment 5 are the same as those of embodiment 1.

[0056] Fig. 9 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioning system 100C according to embodiment 5. Like Fig. 1, Fig. 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a building 200 and the configuration of each part of an air conditioning system 100C installed in the building 200. As shown in Fig. 9, the air conditioning system 100C of this embodiment includes the same air conditioner 11, air supply device 12, air quality sensor 21, blower 41, and control device 5 as in embodiment 1, as well as an outdoor sensor 6 that measures outdoor air quality information.

[0057] The outdoor sensor 6 may be a temperature sensor that measures the outdoor temperature, a humidity sensor that measures humidity, a CO2 sensor that measures carbon dioxide concentration, or a dust sensor that measures the amount of PM2.5 or pollen. Air quality information such as temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide concentration, or dust amount measured by the outdoor sensor 6 is referred to as "outdoor information." The outdoor sensor 6 measures and transmits the outdoor information to the control device 5 at preset time intervals (e.g., 10 minutes) or in response to a request from the control device 5. Note that "outdoor" in this disclosure may include not only the outside of the building 200 but also an outdoor space that is not air-conditioned, such as a parking lot within the building 200.

[0058] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of air blowing control in the fifth embodiment. The air blowing control shown in FIG. 10 is performed by the control device 5. It is also assumed that the air blowing device 41 is operating when the air blowing control shown in FIG. 10 starts. As shown in FIG. 10, first, the error determination unit 51 of the control device 5 determines whether or not air quality information has been received from the air quality sensor 21 (S51). If air quality information has not been received (S51: NO), the error determination unit 51 determines whether the elapsed time t is equal to or greater than a first determination time t1 (S52). In this embodiment, the elapsed time t is either the time elapsed since the air quality information was last received from the air quality sensor 21, or the time elapsed since the outdoor information was last received from the outdoor sensor 6.

[0059] If the elapsed time t is less than the first determination time t1 (S52: NO), the process returns to step S51. On the other hand, if the elapsed time t is equal to or greater than the first determination time t1 (S52: YES), the error determination unit 51 requests outdoor information from the outdoor sensor 6 (S53). Then, the error determination unit 51 determines whether or not outdoor information has been received from the outdoor sensor 6 (S54).

[0060] If outdoor information has not been received from the outdoor sensor 6 (S54: NO), the error determination unit 51 transmits a determination result that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21 to the air blowing control unit 52, and the air blowing control unit 52 stops the air blowing device 41 (S55). Here, if the air blowing device 41 is operating, it is stopped, and if the air blowing device 41 is stopped, it continues to be stopped. Then, the process returns to step S51.

[0061] When outdoor information is received from the outdoor sensor 6 (S54: YES) or when air quality information is received from the air quality sensor 21 (S51: YES), the error determination unit 51 resets the elapsed time t and resumes measuring the elapsed time t (S56). Then, the air blowing control unit 52 determines whether the air quality information or the outdoor information satisfies the stop condition for the air blowing device 41 (S57). Here, when air quality information is received from the air quality sensor 21 (if YES in S51), the air blowing control unit 52 determines whether the received air quality information satisfies the stop condition. On the other hand, when air quality information is not received from the air quality sensor 21 but outdoor information is received from the outdoor sensor 6 (if YES in S54), the air blowing control unit 52 determines whether the outdoor information satisfies the stop condition. The stop condition for the air blowing device 41 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0062] If the air quality information or the outdoor information satisfies the stop condition for the air blower 41 (S57: YES), the air blowing control unit 52 stops the air blower 41 (S55) and returns to the processing of step S51. On the other hand, if the air quality information or the outdoor information does not satisfy the stop condition for the air blower 41 (S57: NO), the air blowing control unit 52 operates the air blower 41 (S58). Here, if the air blower 41 is operating, the operation of the air blower 41 continues, and if the air blower 41 is stopped, the air blowing control unit 52 operates the air blower 41. Furthermore, the air blowing control unit 52 may change the air volume of the air blower 41 depending on the air quality information or the outdoor information. Thereafter, the processing returns to the processing of step S51, and the subsequent processing is repeated.

[0063] As described above, in the air conditioning system 100C of this embodiment, when it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21, the air quality information for the second space R2, which is a non-air-conditioned space, is used as the air quality information for the second space R2 to control the air blower 41. By maintaining the operation of the air blower 41, it is possible to prevent a loss of comfort in the second space R2 and to prevent energy loss and a decrease in user comfort due to excessive air transport to the second space R2.

[0064] In the above description, outdoor information is measured by the outdoor sensor 6, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control device 5 may communicate with an external device that manages weather information including outdoor temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide concentration, PM2.5 concentration, etc., and acquire outdoor information from the external device. Alternatively, the control device 5 may be provided with the operation unit 53 of the second embodiment, and the outdoor information may be input by a user.

[0065] Embodiment 6 An air conditioning system 100D of embodiment 6 will be described. The air conditioning system 100D of embodiment 6 differs from embodiment 1 in the configuration of a control device 5D, in the inclusion of an outdoor sensor 6, and in the air blowing control of an air blower 41. The other configurations of the air conditioning system 100D of embodiment 6 are the same as those of embodiment 1.

[0066] Fig. 11 is a control block diagram of an air conditioning system 100D according to embodiment 6. As shown in Fig. 11, the air conditioning system 100D according to this embodiment includes an outdoor sensor 6, similar to embodiment 5. The configuration and functions of the outdoor sensor 6 are the same as those in embodiment 5.

[0067] Furthermore, the control device 5D in the air conditioning system 100D of this embodiment has a memory unit 55 and an estimation unit 56 in addition to the error determination unit 51 and the air supply control unit 52. As in the third embodiment, the memory unit 55 is, for example, a non-volatile semiconductor memory such as a ROM or flash memory, a volatile semiconductor memory such as a RAM, an HDD, or an SSD, and stores air quality information previously received from the air quality sensor 21 along with the time of reception. Furthermore, the memory unit 55 of this embodiment stores outdoor information previously received from the outdoor sensor 6 along with the time of reception.

[0068] The estimation unit 56 is a functional unit implemented by the processor of the control device 5D executing a program. Alternatively, the estimation unit 56 may be implemented by a processing circuit such as an ASIC or FPGA. The estimation unit 56 estimates the current air quality state of the second space R2 from the past air quality information and outdoor information stored in the memory unit 55 and the current outdoor information received from the outdoor sensor 6.

[0069] Specifically, the estimation unit 56 estimates the difference ΔT between the building 200 and the outdoors based on past air quality information stored in the memory unit 55 and past outdoor information received at the same or similar time as the reception of the past air quality information. Here, the most recent air quality information and outdoor information received most recently are used to estimate the difference ΔT. The current air quality information is then estimated by subtracting or adding the difference ΔT from the current outdoor information. For example, if the outdoor temperature at the same time in the past during the summer was T1 and the temperature of the second space R2 was T2, the estimation unit 56 calculates the temperature difference (T1-T2) as the difference ΔT due to insulation of the building 200. The estimation unit 56 then estimates the temperature Te of the second space R2 by subtracting ΔT from the outdoor temperature T0 in the current outdoor information received from the outdoor sensor 6.

[0070] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of air blowing control in the sixth embodiment. The air blowing control shown in FIG. 12 is performed by the control device 5D. It is also assumed that the air blowing device 41 is operating when the air blowing control shown in FIG. 12 starts. As shown in FIG. 12, first, the error determination unit 51 of the control device 5D determines whether or not air quality information has been received from the air quality sensor 21 (S61). If air quality information has not been received (S61: NO), the error determination unit 51 determines whether the elapsed time t is equal to or greater than a first determination time t1 (S62). In this embodiment, the elapsed time t is either the time elapsed since the air quality information was last received from the air quality sensor 21, or the time elapsed since the air quality information was last estimated.

[0071] If the elapsed time t is less than the first determination time t1 (S62: NO), the process returns to step S61. On the other hand, if the elapsed time t is equal to or greater than the first determination time t1 (S62: YES), the error determination unit 51 requests outdoor information from the outdoor sensor 6 (S63). Then, the error determination unit 51 determines whether or not outdoor information has been received from the outdoor sensor 6 (S64).

[0072] If outdoor information has not been received from the outdoor sensor 6 (S64: NO), the error determination unit 51 transmits a determination result that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21 to the air blowing control unit 52, and the air blowing control unit 52 stops the air blowing device 41 (S65). Here, if the air blowing device 41 is operating, it is stopped, and if the air blowing device 41 is stopped, it continues to be stopped. Then, the process returns to step S61.

[0073] If outdoor information is received from the outdoor sensor 6 (S64: YES), the error determination unit 51 determines whether past outdoor information is stored in the memory unit 55 (S66). If past outdoor information is not stored in the memory unit 55 (S66: NO), the error determination unit 51 transmits a determination result that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21 to the air blow control unit 52, and the air blow control unit 52 stops the air blower 41 (S65).

[0074] If past outdoor information is stored in memory unit 55 (S66: YES), error determination unit 51 determines whether past air quality information is stored in memory unit 55 (S67). If past air quality information is not stored in memory unit 55 (S67: NO), error determination unit 51 transmits a determination result that an error has occurred in air quality sensor 21 to air blow control unit 52, and air blow control unit 52 stops air blower 41 (S65).

[0075] If past air quality information is stored in the memory unit 55 (S67: YES), the estimation unit 56 estimates air quality information of the second space R2 based on the past outdoor information and past air quality information stored in the memory unit 55 and the current outdoor information received in step S64 (S68).

[0076] After the estimation unit 56 estimates the air quality information, or when air quality information is received from the air quality sensor 21 (S61: YES), the error determination unit 51 resets the elapsed time t and resumes measuring the elapsed time t (S69). Then, the air blowing control unit 52 determines whether the air quality information satisfies the stop condition for the air blowing device 41 (S70). Here, when air quality information is received from the air quality sensor 21 (if S61 is YES), the air blowing control unit 52 determines whether the received air quality information satisfies the stop condition. Also, when air quality information is not received from the air quality sensor 21 but the air quality information is estimated by the estimation unit 56 (if S68), the air blowing control unit 52 determines whether the air quality information estimated by the estimation unit 56 satisfies the stop condition for the air blowing device 41. The stop condition for the air blowing device 41 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0077] If the air quality information satisfies the stop condition for the blower 41 (S70: YES), the air blowing control unit 52 stops the blower 41 (S65) and returns to the processing of step S61. On the other hand, if the air quality information does not satisfy the stop condition for the blower 41 (S70: NO), the air blowing control unit 52 operates the blower 41 (S71). Here, if the blower 41 is operating, the operation of the blower 41 continues, and if the blower 41 is stopped, the blower 41 is operated. The air blowing control unit 52 may also change the air volume of the blower 41 depending on the air quality information received from the air quality sensor 21 or the air quality information estimated by the estimation unit 56. Thereafter, the processing returns to the processing of step S61, and the subsequent processing is repeated.

[0078] As described above, in the air conditioning system 100D of this embodiment, when it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21, current air quality information is estimated using past air quality information, outdoor information, and current outdoor information, and the current air quality information is used to control the blower 41. This makes it possible to maintain accurate operation of the blower 41 and prevent a loss of comfort in the second space R2. As a result, it is possible to prevent energy loss and a decrease in user comfort due to excessive air transport to the second space R2.

[0079] In the above description, when current outdoor information cannot be acquired (when S64 is NO), the blower 41 is stopped. However, the estimation unit 56 may estimate the current outdoor information from past outdoor information stored in the memory unit 55, and estimate the current air quality state of the second space R2. Specifically, when current outdoor information cannot be acquired (when S64 is NO), the estimation unit 56 estimates, as the current outdoor information, outdoor information from the past outdoor information stored in the memory unit 55 that has a date and time that is the same as or close to the current date and time. Then, the estimation unit 56 estimates the current air quality state of the second space R2 from the past outdoor information and air quality information stored in the memory unit 55 and the estimated current outdoor information.

[0080] If a communication failure occurs in the control device 5D, it is highly likely that not only the current air quality information but also the outdoor information will not be received. Therefore, by estimating the current outdoor information and air quality information from the past outdoor information and air quality information as described above, it is possible to continue operating the fan device 41 even in the event of a communication failure. Furthermore, since the estimation can take into account the temperature difference trends due to the insulation of the building 200 between seasons or mornings and evenings, it is possible to continue control with even higher precision.

[0081] The above is a description of the embodiments, but the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments and can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the present disclosure includes all possible combinations of the configurations shown in the above embodiments and their modifications. For example, the second embodiment may be combined with any of the third to sixth embodiments, and when it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21, the blower 41 may be switched to a manual control mode instead of stopping the blower 41.

[0082] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21 when air quality information is not received from the air quality sensor 21 within the first determination time t1. However, this is not limiting. For example, the error determination unit 51 may determine that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21 when a signal indicating an abnormality in the air quality sensor 21 is received from the air quality sensor 21 or another device. Alternatively, the error determination unit 51 may determine that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21 when the air quality information received from the air quality sensor 21 indicates an abnormality. If it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor 21, the air blowing control unit 52 performs the error processing described in the first to sixth embodiments. The error processing may include stopping the air blower 41, switching to manual control mode, or controlling the air blower 41 based on information related to the air quality information in the second space R2, such as past air quality information, outdoor information, or air quality information estimated by the estimation unit 56.

[0083] Furthermore, in the third, fourth, or sixth embodiment, the storage unit 55 may store multiple pieces of past air quality information and / or multiple pieces of past outdoor information, or may store only the most recent pieces of past air quality information and / or past outdoor information. [Explanation of symbols]

[0084] 4 Air duct, 4A First air duct, 4B Second air duct, 5, 5A, 5B, 5D Control device, 6 Outdoor sensor, 11 Air conditioning device, 12 Air supply device, 21 Air quality sensor, 41 Blower device, 42 Intake port, 43 Outlet port, 51 Error determination unit, 52 Blower control unit, 53 Operation unit, 54 Display unit, 55 Memory unit, 56 Estimation unit, 100, 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D Air conditioning system, 200 Building.

Claims

1. An air conditioning system installed in a building having a first space and a second space, an air conditioning device installed in the first space and performing heating or cooling of the first space; an air blower provided in an air passage connecting the first space and the second space, the air blower blowing air from the first space to the second space; an air quality sensor installed in the second space and configured to measure air quality information of the second space; a control device that controls the air blower based on the air quality information, When the control device determines that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor, the control device stops the blower, changes the control mode of the blower, or controls the blower using information related to the air quality information.

2. the control modes include an automatic control mode in which the air blower is automatically controlled based on the air quality information, and a manual control mode in which the air blower is manually controlled by a user; The control device If it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor, the control mode is switched to the manual control mode; The air conditioning system according to claim 1 , wherein the user is notified that the control mode has been switched.

3. a memory unit that stores past air quality information measured by the air quality sensor; The air conditioning system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control device controls the blower based on the past air quality information stored in the memory unit when it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor.

4. The control device If the storage time of the past air quality information is equal to or longer than a predetermined determination time, the air blower is stopped; The air conditioning system according to claim 3 , wherein when the storage time is less than the determination time, the air blower is controlled based on the past air quality information.

5. The air conditioning system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein when it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor, the control device acquires outdoor information, which is outdoor air quality information, and controls the blower device based on the outdoor information.

6. The air quality sensor further includes a storage unit configured to store past air quality information measured by the air quality sensor and past outdoor information. the outdoor information is outdoor air quality information, The control device If it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor, current air quality information of the second space is estimated based on the past air quality information and the past outdoor information stored in the storage unit and current outdoor information; The air conditioning system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the blower is controlled based on the estimated air quality information.

7. The air conditioning system according to claim 6, wherein when it is determined that an error has occurred in the air quality sensor, the control device estimates the current outdoor information based on the past outdoor information stored in the memory unit.

Images