Estimation system and program

Abstract

To provide an estimation system capable of suppressing wrong estimation of information on a refrigerant of an air conditioner.SOLUTION: An estimation system estimates information on a refrigerant of an air conditioner on the basis of operation data on the air conditioner that air-conditions an air-conditioned space in which a plurality of indoor units are installed. The estimation system includes: a specification section for specifying data on a time zone in which there are a first indoor unit that executes an air conditioning operation and a second indoor unit that does not execute the air conditioning operation in the air-conditioned space from the operation data; a calculation section for calculating a load factor of the first indoor unit that is a ratio of a thermal load of the air-conditioned space to horsepower of the first indoor unit in the time zone; a correction section for correcting the time zone data on the basis of the load factor; and an estimation section for estimating information on the refrigerant of the air conditioner on the basis of the operation data including the time zone data corrected by the correction section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an estimation system and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for estimating the amount of refrigerant charged in an air conditioner based on operating data of the air conditioner. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-156532 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure provides an estimation system and program that can prevent erroneous estimation of information related to refrigerant in an air conditioner. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The estimation system of the present disclosure is an estimation system that estimates information about the refrigerant of an air conditioning device based on operating data of the air conditioning device that conditions a conditioned space in which multiple indoor units are installed, and includes: an identification unit that identifies data for a time period in which a first indoor unit that performs air conditioning operation and a second indoor unit that does not perform air conditioning operation are present in the conditioned space from the operating data; a calculation unit that calculates the load factor of the first indoor unit, which is the ratio of the heat load of the conditioned space to the horsepower of the first indoor unit, during the time period; a correction unit that corrects the data for the time period identified by the identification unit based on the load factor calculated by the calculation unit; and an estimation unit that estimates information about the refrigerant of the air conditioning device based on the operating data including the data for the time period corrected by the correction unit.

[0006] In addition, the estimation system of the present disclosure is an estimation system that estimates information regarding the refrigerant of an air conditioning device based on operating data of the air conditioning device that conditions a conditioned space in which multiple indoor units are installed, and includes an identification unit that identifies, from the operating data, data for a time period in which a first indoor unit that performs air conditioning operation and a second indoor unit that does not perform air conditioning operation are present in the conditioned space, and an estimation unit that estimates information regarding the refrigerant of the air conditioning device based on the operating data excluding the data for the time period identified by the identification unit.

[0007] In addition, the program of the present disclosure causes a processor to function as an identification unit that identifies data for a time period in which a first indoor unit performing air conditioning operation and a second indoor unit that does not perform air conditioning operation are present in an air-conditioned space in which multiple indoor units are installed, from operating data of an air conditioning device that conditions the air-conditioned space; a calculation unit that calculates the load factor of the first indoor unit, which is the ratio of the heat load of the air-conditioned space to the horsepower of the first indoor unit, during the time period; a correction unit that corrects the data for the time period identified by the identification unit based on the load factor calculated by the calculation unit; and an estimation unit that estimates information about the refrigerant of the air-conditioning device based on the operating data including the data for the time period corrected by the correction unit.

[0008] In addition, the program of the present disclosure causes the processor to function as an identification unit that identifies data for a time period in which a first indoor unit performing air conditioning operation and a second indoor unit that does not perform air conditioning operation are present in an air-conditioned space in which multiple indoor units are installed, from operating data of an air conditioning device that conditions the air-conditioned space, and an estimation unit that estimates information about the refrigerant of the air conditioning device based on the operating data excluding the data for the time period identified by the identification unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] The estimation system and program according to the present disclosure can prevent erroneous estimation of information related to the refrigerant of an air conditioner. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a configuration of an estimation system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of operation data according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 shows a configuration of a server device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining identification of mixed time period data in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Flowchart showing the operation of the server device in the first embodiment [Figure 6] FIG. 10 shows a configuration of a server device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] Flowchart showing the operation of the server device in the second embodiment [Figure 8] FIG. 10 shows a configuration of a server device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 9] Flowchart showing the operation of the server device in the third embodiment DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] (Findings that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time the inventors came up with the idea for this disclosure, there was technology available for diagnosing the refrigerant in an air conditioning system, and this diagnosis involved estimating information about the refrigerant in the air conditioning system (such as whether there was a refrigerant leak and how much refrigerant remained) based on operating data from the air conditioning system.

[0012] In large stores and the like, multiple indoor units may be used to air-condition a single air-conditioned space, and in this type of configuration, some indoor units may not perform air-conditioning operation while others do. However, if information about the refrigerant is estimated based on the operating data of the air conditioner in this case, the estimation may take into account indoor units that are performing air-conditioning operation with insufficient capacity for the heat load of the air-conditioned space, which could result in an erroneous estimation of information about the refrigerant. The inventors discovered this problem, and have come to constitute the subject matter of the present disclosure in order to solve this problem. Therefore, the present disclosure provides an estimation system and program that can prevent erroneous estimation of information related to the refrigerant of an air conditioner.

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, in some cases, more detailed explanation than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed explanation of already well-known matters or redundant explanation of substantially the same configuration may be omitted. The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0014] (Embodiment 1) [1-1.Configuration] [1-1-1. Estimation system configuration] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an estimation system 1000. The estimation system 1000 is a system that performs a diagnosis on the refrigerant of the air conditioning apparatus 1. More specifically, the estimation system 1000 is a system that, as the diagnosis, estimates information related to the refrigerant of the air conditioning apparatus 1. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the estimation system 1000 estimates the presence or absence of a refrigerant leak as information related to the refrigerant.

[0015] The estimation system 1000 includes a plurality of air conditioners 1 each having a different refrigerant system. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the estimation system 1000 includes four air conditioners 1, namely, air conditioners 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D, but the number of air conditioners 1 included in the estimation system 1000 is not limited to four, and may be three or less, or five or more, as long as it is plural.

[0016] The air conditioner 1 comprises one indoor unit 2 and one outdoor unit 3. The indoor unit 2 and the outdoor unit 3 are connected by refrigerant piping and control wiring, thereby forming a refrigeration cycle in the air conditioner 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioner 1A comprises an indoor unit 2A and an outdoor unit 3A. Also as shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioner 1B comprises an indoor unit 2B and an outdoor unit 3B. Also as shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioner 1C comprises an indoor unit 2C and an outdoor unit 3C. Also as shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioner 1D comprises an indoor unit 2D and an outdoor unit 3D.

[0017] The air conditioning apparatus 1 performs air conditioning operation using the indoor unit 2 and outdoor unit 3 it is equipped with, and the indoor unit 2 conditions the conditioned space S of the facility. Note that in this embodiment, the air conditioning operation does not include a blowing operation. In this embodiment, the indoor unit 2A equipped in the air conditioning apparatus 1A, the 2B equipped in the air conditioning apparatus 1B, the 2C equipped in the air conditioning apparatus 1C, and the 2D equipped in the air conditioning apparatus 1D air condition the same conditioned space S. Note that while FIG. 1 shows four indoor units 2 lined up in a row in the conditioned space S, this merely indicates that four indoor units 2 are installed in the conditioned space S, and does not indicate that the indoor units 2 are to be arranged in a row.

[0018] The air conditioner 1 is connected to a network NW, and transmits operating data D1 of the air conditioner 1 at predetermined intervals (for example, once a day) to a server device 4 connected to the network NW. The server device 4 will be described later.

[0019] Here, the driving data D1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the driving data D1.

[0020] The operating data D1 includes an air conditioner ID (Identification). The air conditioner ID is identification information that uniquely identifies the air conditioner 1.

[0021] The operating data D1 also includes the set temperature of the indoor unit 2 during the period from when the operating data D1 was last transmitted to when the operating data D1 is currently transmitted. More specifically, the operating data D1 includes the set temperature of the indoor unit 2 during that period in chronological order at intervals shorter than the predetermined cycle at which the operating data D1 is transmitted (for example, one-minute intervals).

[0022] The operating data D1 also includes, as data, the type of air conditioning of the indoor unit 2 during the period from the previous transmission of the operating data D1 to the current transmission of the operating data D1. More specifically, the operating data D1 includes the type of air conditioning of the indoor unit 2 in the engine in chronological order at intervals shorter than the predetermined cycle at which the operating data D1 is transmitted (for example, one-minute intervals). In this embodiment, the type of air conditioning of the indoor unit 2 is cooling operation or heating operation.

[0023] The operation data D1 also includes as data whether or not air conditioning operation of the indoor unit 2 was performed during the period from when the operation data D1 was last transmitted to when the operation data D1 is currently transmitted. More specifically, the operation data D1 includes whether or not air conditioning operation of the indoor unit 2 was performed during that period, in chronological order, at intervals shorter than the predetermined cycle at which the operation data D1 is transmitted (for example, one-minute intervals).

[0024] The operating data D1 also includes, in chronological order, detection values ​​detected by various sensors included in the air conditioning apparatus 1. More specifically, the operating data D1 includes, in chronological order, detection values ​​detected by the various sensors at intervals shorter than the predetermined cycle at which the operating data D1 is transmitted (for example, one-minute intervals) during the period from when the operating data D1 was last transmitted to when the operating data D1 is currently transmitted.

[0025] In this embodiment, a case will be illustrated in which the operating data D1 includes detected values ​​from a frequency sensor and an indoor unit suction temperature sensor. The frequency sensor is a sensor that detects the rotation frequency of the compressor. The indoor unit intake temperature sensor is a sensor that detects the temperature of the air that the indoor unit 2 draws in from the outside.

[0026] The sensor detection values ​​included in the operation data D1 are not limited to the detection values ​​of the two sensors described above. For example, the operation data D1 may include the detection value of the compressor discharge temperature sensor, the detection value of the first superheat sensor, the detection value of the compressor suction temperature sensor, the detection value of the second superheat sensor, the detection value of the expansion valve opening sensor, etc. The compressor discharge temperature sensor is a sensor that detects the discharge temperature of the compressor (the temperature of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor). The first superheat sensor is a sensor that detects the superheat of the discharge temperature of the compressor. The compressor suction temperature sensor is a sensor that detects the suction temperature of the compressor (the temperature of the refrigerant sucked into the compressor). The second superheat sensor is a sensor that detects the superheat of the intake temperature of the compressor. The expansion valve opening sensor is a sensor that detects the opening of an expansion valve that adjusts the flow rate of refrigerant.

[0027] The estimation system 1000 includes a server device 4. The server device 4 is connected to the network NW and performs information processing with the air conditioning device 1 and the terminal device 5 as clients. Note that in each figure, the server device 4 is represented by a single block, but this does not necessarily mean that the server device 4 is composed of a single device. For example, the server device 4 may be composed of multiple server devices with different processing contents.

[0028] The estimation system 1000 includes a terminal device 5. The terminal device 5 is a terminal device used by an administrator or user of the air conditioning device 1. The terminal device 5 shown in Fig. 1 is a laptop computer, but it may also be a tablet computer, a desktop computer, or a smartphone. The terminal device 5 is connected to the network NW and communicates with the server device 4.

[0029] [1-1-2. Server configuration] Next, the configuration of the server device 4 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the server device 4. As shown in FIG. The server device 4 includes a control device 40 and a communication device 41.

[0030] Before describing the control device 40, the communication device 41 will be described. The communication device 41 includes hardware such as a communication circuit that complies with a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with the air conditioner 1 and the terminal device 5 under the control of the control device 40.

[0031] The control device 40 includes a processor 400 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processor Unit), a memory 410, and an interface circuit for connecting other devices and sensors.

[0032] The memory 410 is a storage device that stores programs and data. The memory 410 stores a control program 411, four pieces of operating data D1, namely, operating data D1A, D1B, D1C, and D1D, an estimation model 412, and data to be processed by the processor 400. The memory 410 has a non-volatile storage area. The memory 410 also has a volatile storage area and constitutes a work area for the processor 400. The memory 410 is constituted by, for example, a read-only memory (ROM) or a random access memory (RAM). The control program 411 is an example of a "program."

[0033] The control program 411 is a program that causes the processor 400 to function as a functional unit, which will be described later.

[0034] The operating data D1A is the operating data D1 of the air conditioner 1A. The operating data D1B is the operating data D1 of the air conditioner 1B. The operating data D1C is the operating data D1 of the air conditioner 1C. The operating data D1D is the operating data D1 of the air conditioner 1D.

[0035] The estimation model 412 is a model that, when the operating data D1 is input, outputs presence / absence information indicating the presence or absence of a refrigerant leak in the air conditioning apparatus 1. An example of the estimation model 412 is a trained model that has been machine-learned to determine the presence or absence of a refrigerant leak from the operating data D1.

[0036] The processor 400 reads and executes a control program 411 stored in the memory 410 to function as a communication control unit 401, a management unit 402, an identification unit 403, a calculation unit 404, a correction unit 405, and an estimation unit 406.

[0037] [1-1-2-1. Communication control section] The communication control unit 401 functions as the air conditioner 1 and the terminal device 5 via the communication device 41.

[0038] [1-1-2-2. Management Department] The management unit 402 manages the driving data D1. When the communication control unit 401 receives the operating data D1, the management unit 402 identifies the operating data D1 in which the air conditioning apparatus ID included in the received operating data D1 is recorded from the operating data D1 stored in the memory 410. Next, the management unit 402 updates the identified operating data D1 to the received operating data D1.

[0039] [1-1-2-3. Specific part] The estimation system 1000 of this embodiment estimates for each air conditioner 1 whether or not there is a refrigerant leak based on the corresponding operating data D1. The identifying unit 403 identifies data for a time period in which there are first indoor units performing air conditioning operation and second indoor units not performing air conditioning operation from the operating data D1 of the air conditioner 1 that is the estimation target. Hereinafter, data for time periods when there is a first indoor unit performing air conditioning operation and a second indoor unit not performing air conditioning operation will be referred to as "mixed time period data" and will be denoted by the symbol "D2" and referred to as "mixed time period data."

[0040] Now, with reference to FIG. 4, the identification of the mixed time period data D2 will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining how the mixed time period data D2 is specified.

[0041] Fig. 4 shows a schematic diagram of the change over time in whether or not air conditioning operation is being performed, indicated by the operating data D1, for each of the operating data D1A, D1B, D1C, and D1D. In Fig. 4, "air conditioning ON" indicates that the indoor unit 2 is performing air conditioning operation, and "air conditioning OFF" indicates that the indoor unit 2 is not performing air conditioning operation.

[0042] The operating data D1A shown in FIG. 4 indicates that the indoor unit 2A performs air conditioning operation from the time "00:00:00" to the time "23:59:59". Furthermore, the operating data D1B shown in FIG. 4 indicates that the indoor unit 2B is performing air conditioning operation from the time "00:00:00" to the time "08:00:00", indicates that the indoor unit 2B is not performing air conditioning operation from the time "08:00:00" to the time "17:00:00", and indicates that the indoor unit 2B is performing air conditioning operation from the time "17:00:00" to the time "23:59:59". Furthermore, the operating data D1C shown in Figure 4 indicates that the indoor unit 2C is performing air conditioning operation from the time "00:00:00" to the time "08:00:00", that the indoor unit 2C is not performing air conditioning operation from the time "08:00:00" to the time "18:00:00", and that the indoor unit 2C is performing air conditioning operation from the time "17:00:00" to the time "23:59:59". Moreover, the operating data D1D shown in FIG. 4 indicates that the indoor unit 2D performs air conditioning operation from time "00:00:00" to time "23:59:59".

[0043] FIG. 4 illustrates an example in which the estimation system 1000 performs estimation regarding the air conditioning apparatus 1A, and the identification unit 403 identifies the mixed time period data D2 from the operating data D1A.

[0044] The identification unit 403 references the four pieces of operating data D1 to identify the time period in which the first indoor unit is present and the second indoor unit is present. In the example of FIG. 4, from the time "08:00:00" to the time "17:00:00", indoor units 2B and 2C are not performing air conditioning operation, while indoor units 2A and 2D are performing air conditioning operation. In other words, in the example of FIG. 4, the time period from the time "08:00:00" to the time "17:00:00" is the time period during which the first indoor unit and the second indoor unit are present. Furthermore, in the example of FIG. 4, from the time "17:00:00" to the time "18:00:00", indoor unit 2C is not performing air conditioning operation, while indoor units 2A, 2B, and 2D are performing air conditioning operation. In other words, in the example of FIG. 4, the time period from the time "17:00:00" to the time "18:00:00" is the time period during which the first indoor unit and the second indoor unit are present. Therefore, in the example of Figure 4, the identification unit 403 identifies the time period from time "08:00:00" to time "17:00:00" and the time period from time "17:00:00" to time "18:00:00" as the time periods in which the first indoor unit and the second indoor unit are present.

[0045] When the identification unit 403 identifies the time periods in which the first indoor unit and the second indoor unit are present, it identifies, for each identified time period, mixed time period data D2 based on the identified time period from the operating data D1 of the air conditioning apparatus 1 to be estimated.

[0046] More specifically, the identifying unit 403 performs the following process for each identified time period. The identification unit 403 references the operating data D1 of the air conditioning apparatus 1 that is the estimation target and determines whether the indoor unit 2 of the air conditioning apparatus 1 that is the estimation target is performing air conditioning operation during the identified time period. If the identification unit 403 determines that the indoor unit 2 is not performing air conditioning operation, it stops the identification as it is unable to identify mixed time period data D2. On the other hand, if the identification unit 403 determines that the indoor unit 2 is performing air conditioning operation, it extracts data for the time period during the identified time period when the indoor unit 2 of the air conditioning apparatus 1 that is the estimation target is performing air conditioning operation as mixed time period data D2. In the example of Fig. 4, the indoor unit 2A is performing air conditioning operation in the time period from "08:00:00" to "17:00:00". Therefore, in the example of Fig. 4, the identification unit 403 extracts the data from "08:00:00" to "17:00:00" from the operating data D1A as mixed time period data D2. Furthermore, in the example of Fig. 4, the indoor unit 2A is performing air conditioning operation in the time period from the time "17:00:00" to the time "18:00:00". Therefore, in the example of Fig. 4, the identification unit 403 further extracts data from the time "17:00:00" to the time "18:00:00" from the operating data D1A as mixed time period data D2.

[0047] If the indoor unit 2A performs air conditioning operation from the time "00:00:00" to the time "16:00:00" and does not perform air conditioning operation after the time "16:00:00", the identification unit 403 extracts the data from the time "08:00:00" to the time "16:00:00" from the operating data D1A as the mixed time period data D2.

[0048] [1-1-2-4. Calculation section] Returning to the explanation of Fig. 3, the calculation unit 404 calculates the load factor for each time period identified by the identification unit 403 when identifying the mixed time period data D2. Here, the load factor is the ratio of the heat load of the conditioned space S to the horsepower (also called capacity) of the first indoor unit. Hereinafter, several methods for calculating the load factor by the calculation unit 404 will be described.

[0049] [1-1-2-4-1. First calculation method] First, the first calculation method will be described. The calculation unit 404 calculates the load factor based on the ratio of the number of indoor units 2 that air-condition the air-conditioned space S to the number of indoor units 2 that can air-condition the air-conditioned space S.

[0050] The first calculation method will be specifically described with reference to FIG. As described above, in the example of Fig. 4, the identifying unit 403 identifies the time period from 08:00:00 to 17:00:00 as the time period in which the first indoor unit and the second indoor unit are present. During this time period, there are four indoor units 2 capable of air conditioning the air-conditioned space S, while there are two indoor units 2 that air-condition the air-conditioned space S. Therefore, according to the first calculation method, the calculating unit 404 calculates the load factor for the time period from 08:00:00 to 17:00:00 as "100% - (2 / 4) x 100% = 50%." 4, the identifying unit 403 identifies the time period from 17:00:00 to 18:00:00 as the time period in which the first and second indoor units are present. During this time period, there are four indoor units 2 capable of air conditioning the air-conditioned space S, but there is one indoor unit 2 that air-conditions the air-conditioned space S. Therefore, according to the first calculation method, the calculating unit 404 calculates the load factor for the time period from 17:00:00 to 18:00:00 as 100% - (1 / 4) × 100% = 75%.

[0051] [1-1-2-4-2. Second calculation method] Next, the second calculation method will be described. The calculation unit 404 calculates the ratio of the compressor rotation frequency to the maximum value of the compressor rotation frequency for each first indoor unit, and calculates the load factor by dividing the sum of the calculated ratios by the number of first indoor units.

[0052] The second calculation method will be specifically described with reference to FIG. As described above, in the example of FIG. 4, the identifying unit 403 identifies the time period from 08:00:00 to 17:00:00 as the time period in which the first indoor unit and the second indoor unit are present. During this time period, the average rotational frequency of the compressor in outdoor unit 3A is 60 Hz, and the average rotational frequency of the compressor in outdoor unit 3D is 80 Hz. The maximum value of the compressor rotational frequency is 100 Hz. In this example, the calculating unit 404 calculates "(60 Hz / 100 Hz) × 100% = 60%" as the ratio of the compressor rotational frequency to the maximum value of the compressor rotational frequency for indoor unit 2A, the first indoor unit, and calculates "(80 Hz / 100 Hz) × 100% = 80%" as the ratio of the compressor rotational frequency to the maximum value of the compressor rotational frequency for indoor unit 2D, the first indoor unit. Then, the calculation unit 404 calculates "(60%+80%)÷2=70%" as the load factor for the time period from time "08:00:00" to time "17:00:00".

[0053] [1-1-2-4-3. Third calculation method] Next, the third calculation method will be described. The calculation unit 404 calculates the load factor using a predetermined algorithm that calculates the load factor by substituting the area of ​​the air-conditioned space S and the horsepower of the first indoor unit. Generally, the larger the area of ​​the conditioned space S, the higher the thermal load, and therefore the larger the area of ​​the conditioned space S that is input, the higher the load factor that is calculated in this algorithm. Also, generally, the greater the horsepower of the indoor unit, the greater the amount of heat that can be processed, and therefore the greater the horsepower of the first indoor unit that is input, the lower the load factor that is calculated in this algorithm.

[0054] The third calculation method will be specifically described with reference to FIG. As described above, in the example of FIG. 4, the identifying unit 403 identifies the time period from 08:00:00 to 17:00:00 as the time period in which the first and second indoor units are present. During this time period, indoor units 2A and 2D are the first indoor units. Therefore, according to the third calculation method, the calculation unit 404 substitutes the area of ​​the air-conditioned space S and the respective capacities of indoor units 2A and 2D into the predetermined algorithm described above, and calculates the load factor for the time period from 08:00:00 to 17:00:00. Furthermore, as described above, in the example of FIG. 4, the identifying unit 403 identifies the time period from 17:00:00 to 18:00:00 as the time period in which the first and second indoor units are present. During this time period, indoor units 2A, 2B, and 2D are the first indoor units. Therefore, according to the third calculation method, the calculation unit 404 substitutes the area of ​​the air-conditioned space S and the capacity of each of the indoor units 2A, 2B, and 2D into the predetermined algorithm described above, and calculates the load factor for the time period from 17:00:00 to 18:00:00.

[0055] The area of ​​the conditioned space S and the horsepower of the indoor unit 2 may be stored in the memory 410 or may be included in the operating data D1.

[0056] [1-1-2-5. Correction section] The correcting unit 405 corrects the mixed time period data D2 based on the load factor calculated by the calculating unit 404 for each mixed time period data D2 identified by the identifying unit 403. To explain this more specifically with reference to Fig. 4, in the example of Fig. 4, the correction unit 405 corrects the mixed time period data D2 from the time "08:00:00" to the time "17:00:00" based on the load factor calculated for the time period from the time "08:00:00" to the time "17:00:00". In addition, in the example of Fig. 4, the correction unit 405 corrects the mixed time period data D2 from the time "17:00:00" to the time "18:00:00" based on the load factor calculated for the time period from the time "17:00:00" to the time "18:00:00".

[0057] The correction by the correction unit 405 will be described in further detail. The correction unit 405 refers to the mixed time period data D2 identified by the identification unit 403, and determines whether the indoor unit 2 is performing cooling operation or heating operation.

[0058] When the correction unit 405 determines that cooling operation is being performed, it corrects at least one of the suction temperature and the set temperature recorded in the mixed time period data D2 so that the difference between the suction temperature and the set temperature recorded in the mixed time period data D2 becomes smaller. For example, when the correction unit 405 determines that cooling operation is being performed, it corrects the intake temperature recorded in the mixed time period data D2 to a lower temperature in accordance with the load factor calculated by the calculation unit 404, within a range that does not fall below the set temperature recorded in the mixed time period data D2. Also, for example, when the correction unit 405 determines that cooling operation is being performed, it corrects the set temperature recorded in the mixed time period data D2 to a higher temperature in accordance with the load factor calculated by the calculation unit 404, as long as the set temperature does not exceed the intake temperature recorded in the mixed time period data D2.

[0059] When the correction unit 405 determines that heating operation is being performed, it corrects at least one of the suction temperature and the set temperature recorded in the mixed time period data D2 so that the difference between the suction temperature and the set temperature recorded in the mixed time period data D2 becomes smaller. For example, when the correction unit 405 determines that heating operation is being performed, it corrects the intake temperature recorded in the mixed time period data D2 to a higher temperature in accordance with the load factor calculated by the calculation unit 404, within a range that does not exceed the set temperature recorded in the mixed time period data D2. Also, for example, when the correction unit 405 determines that heating operation is being performed, it corrects the set temperature recorded in the mixed time period data D2 to a lower temperature in accordance with the load factor calculated by the calculation unit 404, within a range that does not fall below the intake temperature recorded in the mixed time period data D2.

[0060] [1-1-2-6. Estimation part] The estimation unit 406 estimates the presence or absence of a refrigerant leak based on the operating data D1 including the mixed time period data D2 corrected by the correction unit 405. That is, the estimation unit 406 inputs this operating data D1 to an estimation model 412 and causes the estimation model 412 to output presence or absence information, thereby estimating the presence or absence of a refrigerant leak.

[0061] [1-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each unit of the estimation system 1000 according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the server device 4. The flowchart shown in FIG. 5 shows operations performed with one piece of operating data D1 as the processing target, in other words, operations performed with one air conditioner 1 as the processing target.

[0062] 5 is an operation that is started, for example, when a predetermined time arrives, or when the terminal device 5 transmits an estimation start instruction to the server device 4.

[0063] The identifying unit 403 identifies the mixed time period data D2 from the driving data D1 to be processed (step S1).

[0064] Next, the identifying unit 403 determines whether or not the mixed time period data D2 has been identified from the driving data D1 to be processed (step S2).

[0065] If the identification unit 403 determines that the mixed time period data D2 cannot be identified (step S2: NO), the estimation unit 406 inputs the operating data D1 to be processed that has not been corrected by the correction unit 405 into the estimation model 412, thereby estimating the presence or absence of a refrigerant leak (step S3).

[0066] On the other hand, if the identification unit 403 determines that it has been able to identify the mixed time period data D2 (step S2: YES), the calculation unit 404 calculates the load rate for each time period identified by the identification unit 403 when identifying the mixed time period data D2 (step S4).

[0067] Next, the correcting unit 405 corrects the mixed time period data D2 for each mixed time period data D2 identified by the identifying unit 403 based on the load factor calculated in step S3 (step S5).

[0068] Next, the estimation unit 406 inputs the operating data D1 including the mixed time period data D2 corrected in step S4 into the estimation model 412, thereby estimating the presence or absence of a refrigerant leak (step S6).

[0069] When estimation is performed in steps S3 and S6, the communication control unit 401 may notify the estimation results of steps S3 and S6 to the terminal device 5. This allows the manager or user of the air conditioning device 1 to understand the estimation results on the terminal device 5.

[0070] [1-3. Effects, etc.] The estimation system 1000 estimates information about the refrigerant of the air conditioning apparatus 1 based on operating data D1 of the air conditioning apparatus 1 that conditions an air-conditioned space S in which multiple indoor units 2 are installed. The estimation system 1000 includes an identification unit 403 that identifies, from the operating data D1, mixed time period data D2, which is data for a time period when, in the air-conditioned space S, a first indoor unit that is performing air conditioning operation and a second indoor unit that is not performing air conditioning operation are present. The estimation system 1000 also includes a calculation unit 404 that calculates, during this time period, the load factor of the first indoor unit, which is the ratio of the heat load of the air-conditioned space S to the horsepower of the first indoor unit. The estimation system 1000 also includes a correction unit 405 that corrects the mixed time period data D2 identified by the identification unit 403 based on the load factor calculated by the calculation unit 404. The estimation system 1000 also includes an estimation unit 406 that estimates information related to the refrigerant of the air conditioner 1 based on the operating data D1 including the mixed time period data D2 corrected by the correction unit 405.

[0071] According to this, when some of the indoor units 2 do not perform air conditioning operation and some of the other indoor units 2 do, the operating data D1 is corrected based on the ratio of the heat load of the conditioned space S to the horsepower of the first indoor unit. This makes it possible to prevent erroneous estimation of information related to the refrigerant of the air conditioner 1 due to insufficient capacity of the indoor units 2 relative to the heat load of the conditioned space S. In particular, in this embodiment, the indoor units 2 installed in the air-conditioned space S differ for each refrigerant system. If the indoor units 2 installed in the air-conditioned space S differ for each refrigerant system, remote control operation is required for each refrigerant leak, which makes it easy for operation operations to be overlooked in some of the indoor units 2. Therefore, if the indoor units 2 installed in the air-conditioned space S differ for each refrigerant system, it is easy for a situation to arise in which some indoor units 2 do not perform air conditioning operation and other indoor units 2 do, making it possible to achieve the above-mentioned effects more significantly.

[0072] The calculation unit 404 calculates the load factor based on the ratio of the number of indoor units 2 that air-condition the air-conditioned space S to the number of indoor units 2 that can air-condition the air-conditioned space S.

[0073] This makes it possible to calculate the load factor using a simple calculation method, thereby preventing erroneous estimation of information about the refrigerant of the air conditioner 1 and preventing an increase in the estimated load of information about the refrigerant.

[0074] The indoor units 2 capable of air-conditioning the conditioned space S are indoor units 2 with different refrigerant systems. The calculation unit 404 calculates the ratio of the rotation frequency of the compressor to the maximum value of the rotation frequency of the compressor for each first indoor unit, and calculates the load factor based on the calculated ratio.

[0075] This allows the load factor to be calculated taking into account the state of the rotational frequency of the compressor, thereby enabling the load factor to be calculated with high accuracy. Therefore, the operating data D1 can be corrected more appropriately, further reducing the risk of erroneous estimation of information related to the refrigerant of the air conditioner 1.

[0076] The calculation unit 404 calculates the load factor based on the area of ​​the conditioned space S and the horsepower of the first indoor unit.

[0077] This makes it possible to calculate the load factor taking into account the relationship between the area of ​​the conditioned space S and the horsepower of the first indoor unit, allowing for accurate calculation of the load factor. As a result, the operating data D1 can be corrected more appropriately, further reducing the risk of erroneous estimation of information related to the refrigerant of the air conditioner 1.

[0078] The operating data D1 includes the suction temperature of the first indoor unit and the set temperature of the first indoor unit as data. Correction unit 405 corrects at least one of the suction temperature of the first indoor unit and the set temperature of the first indoor unit included in the operating data D1 so as to reduce the difference between the suction temperature of the first indoor unit included in the operating data D1 and the set temperature of the first indoor unit.

[0079] According to this, the difference between the suction temperature of the first indoor unit and the set temperature of the first indoor unit is corrected to be smaller, so the operating data D1 can be corrected to operating data D1 in which the first indoor unit is not operating at a high load. This makes it possible to further prevent erroneous estimation of information related to the refrigerant of the air conditioner 1.

[0080] The control program 411 causes the processor 400 to function as an identifying unit 403 , a calculating unit 404 , a correcting unit 405 , and an estimating unit 406 .

[0081] This provides the same effects as the estimation system 1000 described above.

[0082] (Embodiment 2) Next, a second embodiment will be described. [2-1.Configuration] Regarding the configuration of each part of the estimation system 1000 in the second embodiment, detailed description of the configuration similar to the configuration of each part of the estimation system 1000 in the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0083] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the server device 4 according to the second embodiment. 6 and 2, the memory 410 of the second embodiment stores a control program 411A instead of the control program 411. The processor 400 of the second embodiment reads out the control program 411A from the memory 410 and executes it, thereby functioning as a communication control unit 401, a management unit 402, an identification unit 403, a calculation unit 404, a correction unit 405A, and an estimation unit 406. Control program 411A is an example of a "program."

[0084] Correction unit 405A compares with correction unit 405, and corrects mixed time period data D2 based on the load factor calculated by calculation unit 404 if the following correction execution condition is met: Correction execution conditions: During the time period identified by the identification unit 403, the first indoor unit can be considered to be performing air conditioning operation in a steady state, and the difference between the set temperature of the first indoor unit and the suction temperature of the first indoor unit is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (e.g., 2°C).

[0085] For each piece of mixed time period data D2 identified by the identification unit 403, the correction unit 405A refers to the mixed time period data D2 and determines whether or not the correction execution condition is met. Correction unit 405A determines that the correction execution condition is met if the increase / decrease in the compressor rotation frequency recorded in the mixed time period data D2 is within a predetermined range, and the difference between the average or maximum value of the set temperature recorded in the mixed time period data D2 and the average or maximum value of the suction temperature recorded in the mixed time period data D2 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. Correction unit 405A performs correction in the same manner as correction unit 405 for mixed time period data D2 for which it is determined that the correction execution condition is met, and does not perform correction for mixed time period data D2 for which it is determined that the correction execution condition is not met.

[0086] [2-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each unit of the estimation system 1000 according to the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the server device 4 in the second embodiment.

[0087] In FIG. 7, the same steps as those in FIG. 2 are given the same step numbers as those in FIG. 2, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0088] The correction unit 405A determines whether or not there is any mixed time period data D2 for which the correction execution condition is met among the mixed time period data D2 identified by the identification unit 403 (step S7).

[0089] If the correction unit 405A determines that there is no mixed time period data D2 for which the correction execution condition is met among the mixed time period data D2 identified by the identification unit 403 (step S7: NO), the estimation unit 406 performs the estimation of step S3.

[0090] On the other hand, if the correction unit 405A determines that there is mixed time period data D2 for which the correction execution condition is met among the mixed time period data D2 identified by the identification unit 403 (step S7: YES), it corrects the mixed time period data D2 for which the correction execution condition is met (step S8).

[0091] [2-3. Effects, etc.] As explained above, the correction unit 405A corrects the mixed time period data D2 identified by the identification unit 403 when it can be assumed that the first indoor unit is performing air conditioning operation in a steady state during the time period identified by the identification unit 403, and the difference between the set temperature of the first indoor unit and the suction temperature of the first indoor unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0092] This makes it possible to correct the mixed time period data D2 for time periods when the first indoor unit is considered to be operating at a steady state and high load, thereby preventing unnecessary correction of the operating data D1 and preventing erroneous estimation of information regarding the refrigerant of the air conditioning device 1.

[0093] (Embodiment 3) Next, a third embodiment will be described. [3-1.Configuration] Regarding the configuration of each part of the estimation system 1000 in the third embodiment, detailed description of the configuration similar to the configuration of each part of the estimation system 1000 in the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0094] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the configuration of the server device 4 according to the third embodiment. 8 and 2, the memory 410 of the third embodiment stores a control program 411B instead of the control program 411. The processor 400 of the second embodiment reads out the control program 411B from the memory 410 and executes it, thereby functioning as a communication control unit 401, a management unit 402, an identification unit 403, and an estimation unit 406A. Control program 411B is an example of a "program."

[0095] The estimation unit 406A excludes the mixed time period data D2 identified by the identification unit 403 from the operating data D1 of the air conditioning device 1 to be estimated, and inputs the operating data D1 excluding the mixed time period data D2 into the estimation model 412, thereby estimating whether or not there is a refrigerant leak.

[0096] [3-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each unit of the estimation system 1000 according to the third embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the server device 4 in the third embodiment.

[0097] In FIG. 9, the same steps as those in FIG. 2 are given the same step numbers as those in FIG. 2, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0098] The estimation unit 406A excludes the mixed time period data D2 identified by the identification unit 403 from the driving data D1 to be processed (step S9).

[0099] The estimation unit 406A estimates whether or not there is a refrigerant leak based on the operating data D1 from which the mixed time period data D2 has been excluded in step S9 (step S10).

[0100] [3-3. Effects, etc.] As explained above, the estimation system 1000 estimates information about the refrigerant of the air conditioning apparatus 1 based on the operating data D1 of the air conditioning apparatus 1 that conditions the air-conditioned space S in which multiple indoor units 2 are installed. The estimation system 1000 includes an identification unit 403 that identifies, from the operating data D1, mixed time period data D2, which is data about time periods when, in the air-conditioned space S, there are first indoor units performing air conditioning operation and second indoor units not performing air conditioning operation. The estimation system 1000 includes an estimation unit 406A that estimates information about the refrigerant of the air conditioning apparatus 1 based on the operating data D1 from which the mixed time period data D2 identified by the identification unit 403 has been excluded.

[0101] According to this, when some of the indoor units 2 are not performing air conditioning operation and some of the other indoor units 2 are performing air conditioning operation, the data for this case is excluded from the operation data D1, so estimation can be performed without taking into account the indoor units 2 that are performing air conditioning operation with insufficient capacity for the heat load of the air-conditioned space S. Therefore, erroneous estimation of information related to the refrigerant of the air conditioner 1 can be suppressed.

[0102] The control program 411B causes the processor 400 to function as the identification unit 403 and the estimation unit 406A.

[0103] This provides the same effects as the estimation system 1000 in the third embodiment described above.

[0104] (Other embodiments) As described above, the above-mentioned first, second, and third embodiments have been described as examples disclosed in the present application. However, the technology in the present disclosure is not limited to these, and can be applied to embodiments in which modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. are made. Furthermore, it is also possible to combine the components described in the above-mentioned first, second, and third embodiments to create new embodiments. Therefore, other embodiments will be described below as examples.

[0105] In another embodiment related to the first and second embodiments, when there are multiple first indoor units in the time period identified by the identifying unit 403, the calculating unit 404 may calculate the load factor as follows.

[0106] That is, in the other embodiments described above, calculation unit 404 calculates the load factor using the first calculation method when there are multiple first indoor units and the difference in set temperature among the multiple first indoor units is within a predetermined value (for example, 2°C) during the time period identified by identification unit 403. Note that calculation unit 404 determines whether there are multiple first indoor units and the difference in set temperature among the multiple first indoor units is within a predetermined value (for example, 2°C) by referring to operating data D1 of the multiple first indoor units.

[0107] Furthermore, in the other embodiments described above, if there are multiple first indoor units during the time period identified by identification unit 403 and the difference in set temperature among the multiple first indoor units is not within a predetermined value (for example, 2°C), calculation unit 404 calculates a load factor according to the difference between the suction temperature of the first indoor unit and the set temperature of the first indoor unit. For example, suppose the difference between the suction temperature and the set temperature of a certain first indoor unit is a first difference, and the difference between the suction temperature and the set temperature of another first indoor unit different from the certain first indoor unit is a second difference that is smaller than the first difference. When estimation is performed for an air conditioner 1 equipped with a certain first indoor unit, calculation unit 404 calculates the load factor for the certain first indoor unit using the calculation method described above, and then corrects the calculated load factor so that it is greater than the load factors calculated for the other first indoor units.

[0108] According to the other embodiments described above, when the difference in load rate among the first indoor units is within a predetermined value, the load rate can be calculated using a simple calculation method, and when the difference in load rate among the first indoor units is not within the predetermined value, the load rate can be calculated with high accuracy. Therefore, it is possible to further prevent erroneous estimation of the information about the refrigerant of the air conditioning apparatus 1 while suppressing an increase in the estimated load of the information about the refrigerant.

[0109] In other embodiments, the air conditioner 1 may be a multi-air conditioner, i.e., the air conditioner 1 may be equipped with multiple indoor units 2. In this case, the multiple indoor units 2 equipped in one air conditioner 1 may be installed in the same air-conditioned space S, or, of the multiple indoor units 2 equipped in one air conditioner 1, some of the indoor units 2 may be installed in a different air-conditioned space S from the air-conditioned space S where the other indoor units 2 are located. Also, in other embodiments, all of the indoor units 2 installed in the air-conditioned space S may be configured to belong to the same refrigerant system.

[0110] In the above-described embodiment, the correction units 405, 405A are configured to correct at least one of the suction temperature and the set temperature, but in other embodiments, the correction units 405, 405A may correct factors other than the suction temperature and the set temperature, as long as the correction can be made to prevent the first indoor unit from operating at a high load. However, it is preferable not to correct the rotation frequency of the compressor recorded in the operating data D1. This is because, when the air conditioning apparatus 1 is a multi-air conditioner, this affects some of the data for indoor unit 2 included in the operating data D1.

[0111] In the above-described embodiment, whether or not the indoor unit 2 is performing air conditioning operation is determined based on whether or not air conditioning operation is being performed, which is recorded in the operation data D1. In another embodiment, whether or not the indoor unit 2 is performing air conditioning operation may be determined based on the compressor rotation frequency, which is recorded in the operation data D1. In this other embodiment, whether or not air conditioning operation is being performed may not be recorded in the operation data D1. According to this other embodiment, when the indoor unit 2 is performing thermo-off operation, it is possible to treat the indoor unit 2 as not performing air conditioning operation, which further reduces erroneous estimation of information related to the refrigerant.

[0112] In another embodiment, when the operating data D1 includes data on the dry operation or defrosting operation, information about the refrigerant may be estimated based on the operating data D1 excluding the data on the dry operation or defrosting operation.

[0113] In the above-described first and second embodiments, the first calculation method, the second calculation method, and the third calculation method have been described as methods for calculating the load factor by the calculation unit 404. However, the calculation method for the load factor by the calculation unit 404 is not limited to these calculation methods, and other calculation methods may be used. For example, the calculation unit 404 may calculate the load factor from the relationship between the volume of air blown out by the first indoor unit into the air-conditioned space S and the rotation frequency of the compressor. In this example, the volume of air blown out by the first indoor unit into the air-conditioned space S is recorded in chronological order in the operating data D1 at intervals shorter than the predetermined cycle at which the operating data D1 is transmitted (for example, one-minute intervals).

[0114] In the second embodiment described above, correction unit 405A is configured to correct mixed time period data D2 when the correction execution condition is met. However, the correction execution condition is not limited to the condition of the second embodiment. The correction execution condition may be the same as the condition of the second embodiment, except that, for example, the set temperature of the first indoor unit has not been changed for a predetermined time during the time period identified by identification unit 403. Furthermore, the correction execution condition may be the same as the condition of the second embodiment, except that, for example, when the set temperature of the first indoor unit is changed during the time period identified by identification unit 403, the difference between the suction temperature and the set temperature of the first indoor unit is equal to or less than a predetermined temperature.

[0115] In the above-described embodiment, the estimation units 406 and 406A are configured to estimate the presence or absence of a refrigerant leak as information related to the refrigerant, but the estimation units 406 and 406A may estimate other information related to the refrigerant, such as the remaining refrigerant amount, whether the remaining refrigerant amount is below a predetermined value (e.g., 70%), etc. In this case, the estimation model 412 is a model that outputs the estimation target of the estimation units 406 and 406A.

[0116] In another embodiment, the estimation system 1000 may be provided with a management device that has the same functions as the server device 4 and communicates with the air conditioning device 1 via a local network, instead of the server device 4. An example of this management device is a centralized management device installed in a building.

[0117] In other embodiments, the estimation units 406, 406A may estimate information about the refrigerant using a predetermined algorithm instead of an estimation model. Also, in other embodiments, the estimation units 406, 406A may estimate information about the refrigerant using an estimation model. Also, the estimation model may not be a model generated by machine learning, but may be another model such as a model generated using logistic regression analysis.

[0118] The processor 400 may be configured with a single processor or multiple processors. The processor 400 may be hardware programmed to implement corresponding functional units. That is, the processor 400 may be configured with, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0119] The configurations of the server device 4 shown in Figures 3, 6, and 8 are merely examples, and the specific implementation form is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessarily necessary to implement hardware corresponding to each unit individually, and it is also possible to implement a configuration in which a single processor executes a program to realize the functions of each unit. Furthermore, some of the functions realized by software in the above-mentioned embodiments may be implemented by hardware, or some of the functions realized by hardware may be implemented by software.

[0120] The step units of the operations shown in Figures 5, 7, and 9 are divided according to the main processing content to make the operations easier to understand, and the operation is not limited by the way the processing units are divided or the names of the processing units. The operations may be divided into more step units depending on the processing content. Furthermore, one step unit may be divided so that it includes more processing. Furthermore, the order of the steps may be changed as appropriate within the scope that does not interfere with the purpose of this disclosure.

[0121] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are intended to illustrate the technology of the present disclosure, and various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. may be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0122] (Addendum) The above description of the embodiments discloses the following techniques.

[0123] (Technology 1) An estimation system that estimates information related to the refrigerant of an air conditioning device that conditions a conditioned space in which multiple indoor units are installed, based on operating data of the air conditioning device, the estimation system comprising: an identification unit that identifies, from the operating data, data for a time period in which a first indoor unit that performs air conditioning operation and a second indoor unit that does not perform air conditioning operation are present in the conditioned space; a calculation unit that calculates, during the time period, a load factor of the first indoor unit, which is the ratio of the heat load of the conditioned space to the horsepower of the first indoor unit; a correction unit that corrects the data for the time period identified by the identification unit based on the load factor calculated by the calculation unit; and an estimation unit that estimates information related to the refrigerant of the air conditioning device, based on the operating data including the data for the time period corrected by the correction unit. According to this, when some indoor units are not performing air conditioning operation and some other indoor units are performing air conditioning operation, the operating data is corrected based on the ratio of the heat load of the conditioned space to the horsepower of the first indoor unit. This makes it possible to prevent erroneous estimation of information about the refrigerant of the air conditioner due to insufficient capacity of the indoor units relative to the heat load of the conditioned space.

[0124] (Technology 2) The estimation system according to Technology 1, wherein the calculation unit calculates the load factor based on the ratio of the number of indoor units that air-condition the air-conditioned space to the number of indoor units that can air-condition the air-conditioned space. This allows the load factor to be calculated using a simple calculation method, thereby preventing erroneous estimation of information about the refrigerant of the air conditioner and preventing an increase in the estimated load of information about the refrigerant.

[0125] (Technology 3) The indoor units capable of air-conditioning the conditioned space are indoor units with different refrigerant systems, and the calculation unit calculates, for each of the first indoor units, a ratio of the compressor rotation frequency to a maximum value of the compressor rotation frequency, and calculates the load factor based on the calculated ratio. This allows the load factor to be calculated taking into account the compressor rotational frequency, resulting in a more accurate load factor calculation. This allows the operating data to be more appropriately corrected, further reducing the risk of erroneous estimation of information about the refrigerant in the air conditioner.

[0126] (Technology 4) The estimation system according to Technology 1, wherein the calculation unit calculates the load factor based on an area of ​​the space to be air-conditioned and a horsepower of the first indoor unit. This allows the load factor to be calculated taking into account the relationship between the area of ​​the conditioned space and the horsepower of the first indoor unit, making it possible to calculate the load factor with high accuracy.As a result, the operating data can be corrected more appropriately, making it possible to further reduce erroneous estimation of information related to the refrigerant of the air conditioner.

[0127] (Technology 5) The estimation system described in Technology 1, wherein the calculation unit calculates the load factor based on the ratio of the number of indoor units that air-condition the conditioned space to the number of indoor units that can air-condition the conditioned space when there are multiple first indoor units in the time period and the difference in set temperature among the multiple first indoor units is within a predetermined value, and calculates the load factor according to the difference between the suction temperature of the first indoor units and the set temperature of the first indoor units when there are multiple first indoor units in the time period and the difference in set temperature among the multiple first indoor units is not within the predetermined value. This allows the load factor to be calculated using a simple calculation method when the difference in load factor between the multiple first indoor units is within a predetermined value, and allows the load factor to be calculated with high accuracy when the difference in load factor between the multiple first indoor units is not within the predetermined value. Therefore, it is possible to further prevent erroneous estimation of information about the refrigerant for the air conditioner while preventing an increase in the estimated load of information about the refrigerant.

[0128] (Technology 6) The operating data includes the suction temperature of the first indoor unit and the set temperature of the first indoor unit as data, and the correction unit corrects at least one of the suction temperature of the first indoor unit and the set temperature of the first indoor unit included in the operating data so as to reduce the difference between the suction temperature of the first indoor unit included in the operating data and the set temperature of the first indoor unit. This is an estimation system described in any one of Technology 1 to Technology 5. This makes it possible to correct the difference between the suction temperature of the first indoor unit and the set temperature of the first indoor unit to be smaller, and therefore correct the operating data to be one in which the first indoor unit is not operating at a high load, thereby further reducing the risk of erroneous estimation of information related to the refrigerant of the air conditioner.

[0129] (Technology 7) An estimation system according to any one of Technology 1 to Technology 6, wherein the correction unit corrects the data for the time period identified by the identification unit when the first indoor unit can be considered to be performing air conditioning operation in a steady state during the time period and the difference between the set temperature of the first indoor unit and the suction temperature of the first indoor unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. This makes it possible to correct data for time periods when the first indoor unit is considered to be operating at a steady state and high load, thereby preventing unnecessary correction of operating data and preventing erroneous estimation of information related to the refrigerant of the air conditioning unit.

[0130] (Technology 8) An estimation system that estimates information related to the refrigerant of an air conditioning device that conditions a conditioned space in which multiple indoor units are installed, based on operating data of the air conditioning device, the estimation system comprising: an identification unit that identifies, from the operating data, data for a time period in which a first indoor unit that performs air conditioning operation and a second indoor unit that does not perform air conditioning operation are present in the conditioned space; and an estimation unit that estimates information related to the refrigerant of the air conditioning device based on the operating data excluding the data for the time period identified by the identification unit. According to this, if some indoor units are not performing air conditioning operation and some other indoor units are, the data for this case is excluded from the operation data, so estimation can be performed without taking into account indoor units that are performing air conditioning operation with insufficient capacity relative to the heat load of the conditioned space. This makes it possible to prevent erroneous estimation of information related to the refrigerant of the air conditioner.

[0131] (Technology 9) A program that causes a processor to function as an identification unit that identifies data for a time period in which a first indoor unit performing air conditioning operation and a second indoor unit that does not perform air conditioning operation are present in an air-conditioned space in which multiple indoor units are installed, from operating data of an air conditioner that conditions the air-conditioned space; a calculation unit that calculates a load factor of the first indoor unit, which is the ratio of the heat load of the air-conditioned space to the horsepower of the first indoor unit, during the time period; a correction unit that corrects the data for the time period identified by the identification unit based on the load factor calculated by the calculation unit; and an estimation unit that estimates information about the refrigerant of the air conditioner based on the operating data including the data for the time period corrected by the correction unit. This provides the same effects as the estimation system described in Technique 1.

[0132] (Technology 10) A program that causes a processor to function as an identification unit that identifies data for a time period in which a first indoor unit that performs air conditioning operation and a second indoor unit that does not perform air conditioning operation are present in an air-conditioned space where multiple indoor units are installed, from operating data of an air conditioner that conditions the air-conditioned space, and an estimation unit that estimates information about the refrigerant of the air conditioner based on the operating data excluding the data for the time period identified by the identification unit. This provides the same effect as the estimation system described in Technique 8. [Industrial Applicability]

[0133] As described above, the estimation system and program according to the present invention can be used to estimate information related to the refrigerant of an air conditioner. [Explanation of symbols]

[0134] 1, 1A~1D Air conditioning equipment 2, 2A~2D indoor unit 3, 3A~3D outdoor unit 4. Server equipment 5 Terminal Devices 40 Control device 41 Communication equipment 400 processors 401 Communication control unit 402 Management Department 403 Specific part 404 Calculation Unit 405, 405A compensation unit 406, 406A estimation section 410 memory 411, 411A, 411B control program (program) 412 Estimation Model 1000 Estimation System D1, D1A to D1D operation data D2 Mixed time zone data (time zone data) D2 Operation Data NW Network S Air conditioned space

Claims

1. An estimation system that estimates information about a refrigerant of an air conditioning apparatus based on operation data of the air conditioning apparatus that conditions an air-conditioned space in which a plurality of indoor units are installed, an identification unit that identifies, from the operating data, data on a time period in which a first indoor unit performing air conditioning operation and a second indoor unit not performing air conditioning operation are present in the conditioned space; a calculation unit that calculates a load factor of the first indoor unit, which is a ratio of a heat load of the air-conditioned space to a horsepower of the first indoor unit during the time period; a correction unit that corrects data for the time period identified by the identification unit based on the load factor calculated by the calculation unit; an estimation unit that estimates information about the refrigerant of the air conditioning device based on the operating data including the data for the time period corrected by the correction unit, Estimation system.

2. The calculation unit Calculating the load factor based on the ratio of the number of indoor units that air-condition the air-conditioned space to the number of indoor units that can air-condition the air-conditioned space. The estimation system of claim 1 .

3. The indoor units capable of air-conditioning the conditioned space are indoor units with different refrigerant systems, The calculation unit a ratio of the rotation frequency of the compressor to a maximum value of the rotation frequency of the compressor is obtained for each of the first indoor units, and the load factor is calculated based on the obtained ratio. The estimation system of claim 1 .

4. The calculation unit calculating the load factor based on the area of ​​the space to be air-conditioned and the horsepower of the first indoor unit; The estimation system of claim 1 .

5. The calculation unit If there are multiple first indoor units in the time period and the difference in set temperature among the multiple first indoor units is within a predetermined value, calculate the load factor based on the ratio of the number of indoor units that air-condition the air-conditioned space to the number of indoor units that can air-condition the air-conditioned space; When a plurality of the first indoor units are present during the time period and the difference in set temperature among the plurality of first indoor units is not within the predetermined value, the load factor is calculated according to the difference between the intake temperature of the first indoor unit and the set temperature of the first indoor unit. The estimation system of claim 1 .

6. The operating data includes the suction temperature of the first indoor unit and the set temperature of the first indoor unit as data, The correction unit correcting at least one of the suction temperature of the first indoor unit and the set temperature of the first indoor unit included in the operating data so that the difference between the suction temperature of the first indoor unit included in the operating data and the set temperature of the first indoor unit becomes smaller; The estimation system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The correction unit When it is possible to consider that the first indoor unit is performing air conditioning operation in a steady state during the time period, and when the difference between the set temperature of the first indoor unit and the intake temperature of the first indoor unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the data for the time period identified by the identification unit is corrected. The estimation system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. An estimation system that estimates information about a refrigerant of an air conditioning apparatus based on operation data of the air conditioning apparatus that conditions an air-conditioned space in which a plurality of indoor units are installed, an identification unit that identifies, from the operating data, data on a time period in which a first indoor unit performing air conditioning operation and a second indoor unit not performing air conditioning operation are present in the conditioned space; an estimation unit that estimates information about the refrigerant of the air conditioning device based on the operating data excluding data for the time period identified by the identification unit, Estimation system.

9. The processor, an identification unit that identifies data for a time period in which a first indoor unit performing air conditioning operation and a second indoor unit not performing air conditioning operation are present in an air-conditioned space in which a plurality of indoor units are installed, from operational data of an air conditioner that conditions the air-conditioned space; a calculation unit that calculates a load factor of the first indoor unit, which is a ratio of a heat load of the air-conditioned space to a horsepower of the first indoor unit during the time period; a correction unit that corrects data for the time period identified by the identification unit based on the load factor calculated by the calculation unit; and causing the correction unit to function as an estimation unit that estimates information about the refrigerant of the air conditioning device based on the operating data including the data for the time period corrected by the correction unit. program.

10. The processor, an identification unit that identifies data on a time period in which a first indoor unit performing air conditioning operation and a second indoor unit not performing air conditioning operation are present in an air-conditioned space in which a plurality of indoor units are installed, from operational data of an air conditioner that conditions the air-conditioned space; and causing the determination unit to function as an estimation unit that estimates information about the refrigerant of the air conditioning device based on the operating data excluding the data for the time period identified by the determination unit. program.

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