Capacity determination method and capacity determination device for air conditioner

Abstract

To evaluate the certainty of the calculated air conditioning capacity of an air conditioner in consideration of environmental conditions.SOLUTION: The method includes an outside air temperature acquiring step S1 of acquiring an outside air temperature, a maximum operation step S2 of operating the air conditioner in a maximum operation mode based on the outside air temperature, a first data acquiring step S2 of acquiring first data necessary for calculating an air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner during the maximum operation step S3, a second data acquiring step S4 of acquiring second data related to a situation during the maximum operation step S2, an air conditioning capacity calculating step S5 of calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner during the maximum operation step S6 using the first data, a determining step of determining accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity based on the second data, and a displaying step S7 of displaying information related to the accuracy together with the air conditioning capacity or instead of the air conditioning capacity.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and device for determining the capacity of an air conditioner. [Background technology]

[0002] Generally, air conditioners, also known as air conditioners, may not be able to perform at their maximum capacity after installation in a building due to various reasons, such as improper installation or construction. In such cases, satisfactory air conditioning effects cannot be expected. In particular, in a whole-building air conditioning system, a small number of air conditioners (for example, one unit) are responsible for conditioning many rooms, so if an air conditioner is unable to perform at its maximum capacity, the impact will extend to multiple rooms.

[0003] To solve the problems described above, the present applicant has proposed a method for determining the performance of air conditioners used in central air conditioning systems in the following Patent Document 1. This method acquires status information including at least the temperatures on the air inlet and outlet sides of the air conditioner and the airflow rate, calculates the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner based on the status information, and displays information related to the calculated air conditioning capacity. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-18760 DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Incidentally, the air conditioning capacity calculated in Patent Document 1 fluctuates depending on the circumstances and environmental conditions at the time of measurement of the outdoor air temperature and indoor temperature data that form the basis of the calculation. For this reason, even if the air conditioner is installed and constructed correctly, the calculated air conditioning capacity may fall short of the theoretical maximum air conditioning capacity depending on the environmental conditions at the time of capacity measurement. Therefore, when determining the air conditioning capacity of an air conditioner, the accuracy of the air conditioning capacity determination can be further improved if the reliability (i.e., accuracy) of the determination result can be known by taking into account the environmental conditions at the time of capacity determination.

[0006] The present invention was devised in light of the above-mentioned circumstances, and its main objective is to provide a method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner, which takes into account environmental conditions, etc., and allows one to know the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention is a method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner installed in a building, comprising: an outdoor air temperature acquisition step for acquiring the outdoor air temperature; a maximum operation step for operating the air conditioner in maximum cooling or heating operation mode based on the outdoor air temperature; a first data acquisition step for acquiring first data required to calculate the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner during the maximum operation step; a second data acquisition step for acquiring second data related to the situation during the maximum operation step; an air conditioning capacity calculation step for calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner during the maximum operation step using the first data; a determination step for determining the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity based on the second data; and a display step for displaying information related to the accuracy together with or instead of the air conditioning capacity. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] By adopting the above-described configuration, the air conditioner capacity determination method of the present invention can determine the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner, taking environmental conditions and the like into consideration. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional view conceptually showing a building in which a central air-conditioning system is installed. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic block diagram of an entire system including the ability determination device of this embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a flowchart of a capability determination method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a determination step. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a display step. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an interface of the ability determination device of the present embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a chart showing an example of the ability determination method of the present embodiment performed in winter. [Figure 8] As an example of when the level of accuracy of the air conditioning capacity is determined to be high (definite value), a graph showing the time-series relationship between the outside air temperature, the expected capacity of the air conditioner, and the calculated air conditioning capacity is shown. [Figure 9] As an example of when the level of accuracy of the air conditioning capacity is judged to be low (reference value), a graph showing the time-series relationship between the outside air temperature, the expected capacity of the air conditioner, and the calculated air conditioning capacity is shown. [Figure 10] 10 is a chart showing an example of the ability determination method of the present embodiment performed in summer. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a measuring step and an estimating step. [Figure 12] 10 is a graph showing an example of correlation data relating the current value of the air conditioner to the theoretical air conditioning capacity. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] An embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. It should be understood that the drawings include exaggerated representations and representations different from the dimensional ratios of actual structures to facilitate understanding of the present invention. Furthermore, when there are multiple embodiments, identical or common elements are designated by the same reference numerals throughout the specification, and redundant explanations are omitted. Furthermore, the specific configurations shown in the embodiments and drawings are for the purpose of understanding the contents of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the specific configurations shown in the drawings.

[0011] [building] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a building. The building is, for example, a house 2, and is equipped with a central air-conditioning system 1. The house 2 in this embodiment includes an underfloor space 3 and an above-floor space 4, and is, for example, an industrialized house with high airtightness.

[0012] A plurality of living rooms 5 are provided in the above-floor space 4. The plurality of living rooms 5 include, for example, a living room 5A on the first floor and a living room 5B on the second floor. Note that the plurality of living rooms 5 may be composed of, for example, only the living room 5A on the first floor, or may also include living rooms on the third floor or higher (not shown), etc.

[0013] The underfloor space 3 is a space surrounded by a foundation 26 that is insulated with a heat insulating material, for example. An inlet 27 is formed in the foundation 26 to take in outside air Ao into the underfloor space 3. The outside air Ao taken in the underfloor space 3 exchanges heat with geothermal heat in the earthen floor below the floor. As a result, the outside air Ao passing through the underfloor space 3 can be cooled in the summer and heated in the winter.

[0014] In this embodiment, an example is shown in which an outdoor air temperature sensor 28 for measuring the temperature of the outdoor air Ao is provided at the inlet 27 of the foundation 26. However, a sensor (not shown) for measuring the temperature of the outdoor air Ao that is pre-installed in the outdoor unit (not shown) of the air conditioner 6 may also be used as the outdoor air temperature sensor 28.

[0015] [Whole building air conditioning system] The central air-conditioning system 1 of this embodiment is configured to include one air conditioner 6, a duct 7, and a control unit 8.

[0016] [Air conditioner] The air conditioner 6 is one heat source of the central air conditioning system 1 and is housed, for example, inside a chamber box 11. The chamber box 11 is formed in a box shape that defines a space inside. Although not shown, the chamber box 11 of this embodiment is provided with an air supply port for taking so-called return air Ai that has passed through multiple rooms 5 into the box, and an outside air intake port for taking outside air Ao into the box. In this embodiment, the outside air Ao is taken in from the underfloor space 3 via the outside air supply fan 13 and the outside air supply duct 12. In another aspect, the outside air Ao may be taken in directly from outdoors without passing through the underfloor space 3.

[0017] The air conditioner 6 of this embodiment is, for example, a general household heat pump inverter air conditioner. Therefore, the air conditioner 6 can perform general air conditioning operation by inputting the distinction between cooling and heating, the set temperature, etc.

[0018] The air conditioner 6 is a separate type that includes, as a set, an indoor unit 6A and an outdoor unit (not shown) installed outside the house 2. The indoor unit 6A has an intake port 14 and an outlet port 15. The intake port 14 takes in, for example, a mixture of return air Ai and outside air Ao and supplies it to a heat exchanger inside the indoor unit 6A. Air Ac that has been conditioned by the heat exchanger (hereinafter referred to as "conditioned air Ac") is blown out to the outside from the outlet port 15. The set temperature and air volume (blowout air volume) of the air conditioner 6 are controlled, for example, by a control unit 8.

[0019] The air conditioner 6 is equipped with sensors for obtaining, for example, the temperature and humidity on the inlet 14 side and the temperature on the outlet 15 side. These sensors may be sensors that are already provided in the air conditioner 6, or may be sensors that are added separately. Furthermore, the air conditioner 6 can obtain (estimate) the blow-out air volume from, for example, the air volume setting information (TAP1 to 4) during operation.

[0020] The temperature and humidity of the air on the suction port 14 side of the indoor unit 6A are the temperature and humidity of the air taken in through the suction port 14 (in this example, a mixture of return air Ai and outside air Ao), and are measured, for example, at the suction port 14. In another aspect, the temperature and humidity of the air on the suction port 14 side may be measured, for example, within a predetermined range (for example, 10 to 20 cm) from the suction port 14.

[0021] The temperature of the air on the outlet 15 side is the temperature of the air discharged from the outlet 15, i.e., the temperature of the conditioned air Ac. In this embodiment, the temperature on the outlet 15 side is measured at the outlet 15. In another aspect, the temperature of the air on the outlet 15 side may be measured, for example, within a predetermined range (for example, 10 to 20 cm) from the outlet 15.

[0022] The blown air volume is the volume of conditioned air Ac discharged from the outlet 15. In this embodiment, the blown air volume is measured at the outlet 15. In another aspect, the blown air volume may be an air volume measured within the above range, similar to the temperature on the outlet 15 side.

[0023] For example, based on a signal from the control unit 8, the air conditioner 6 can acquire the temperature and humidity of the air on the intake port 14 side, the temperature of the air on the outlet port 15 side, and the blown air volume, and transmit this data to the control unit 8.

[0024] [duct] The duct 7 of this embodiment forms a path for supplying conditioned air Ac to multiple living rooms 5. One end of the duct 7 of this embodiment is connected to the air outlet 15 side inside the chamber box 11. The other end of the duct 7 branches into multiple parts that are connected to each living room 5. In this way, the duct 7 communicates between the chamber box 11 and the multiple living rooms 5. The duct 7 of this embodiment includes a first duct 7A that supplies conditioned air Ac to living room 5A on the first floor, and a second duct 7B that supplies conditioned air Ac to living room 5B on the second floor.

[0025] In this embodiment, a fan 16 is connected to the duct 7 for pressurizing and sending the conditioned air Ac to the multiple rooms 5. In this embodiment, the fan 16 is housed in the chamber box 11, but is not limited to this. In this embodiment, the fan 16 includes a first fan 16A connected to the first duct 7A and a second fan 16B connected to the second duct 7B.

[0026] [Control Unit] The control unit 8 is communicatively connected to the air conditioner 6. The control unit 8 is configured, for example, by a computer 9. The control unit 8 of this embodiment is installed, for example, on a partition wall of the living room 5. In another aspect, the control unit 8 may be configured by a portable smartphone, tablet computer, laptop computer, or the like.

[0027] 2 is a conceptual diagram showing the configuration of the control unit 8 of this embodiment. The control unit 8 includes, for example, an arithmetic unit 18, a storage device 19 for storing processing procedures and the like, and a working memory 20 for reading the processing procedures and the like from the storage device 19. The control unit 8 is connected to various input devices 21, a display device 22, and the like.

[0028] The input device 21 of this embodiment is configured, for example, by operation buttons, a touch panel, or the like provided on the housing (shown in FIG. 1) of the control unit 8. Operation signals input by, for example, a user, etc. are transmitted by the input device 21 to the control unit 8 (arithmetic unit 18). The input operation signals may include, for example, instructions to start and stop air conditioning operation, set temperatures for each room, and even instructions to determine the capacity of the air conditioner 6.

[0029] The display device 22 of this embodiment is configured as, for example, a display provided on the housing of the control unit 8. When a signal is transmitted from the control unit 8, the display device 22 can display necessary information (for example, the operating status of the central air-conditioning system 1) using characters, figures, etc.

[0030] [Arithmetic device] The arithmetic device 18 is configured, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The arithmetic device 18 of this embodiment is connected to the air conditioner 6 so that it can communicate with it. This allows the arithmetic device 18 to control the operation of the air conditioner 6 (starting and stopping operations such as cooling and heating, the set temperature, the blown air volume, etc.) by sending operation signals to the air conditioner 6. Furthermore, the arithmetic device 18 can obtain various data from the air conditioner 6, such as the temperature and humidity on the air inlet 14 side, the temperature on the air outlet 15 side, and the blown air volume, by sending request signals to the air conditioner 6.

[0031] The computing device 18 of this embodiment can control the outside air supply fan 13 and the fan 16 (in this example, the first fan 16A and the second fan 16B). For example, the computing device 18 can control the operation (starting and stopping, air volume (rotation speed), etc.) of the outside air supply fan 13 and the fan 16.

[0032] [Storage device] The storage device 19 of this embodiment is, for example, a non-volatile information storage device. The storage device 19 includes a data section 23 and a program section 24.

[0033] [Data section] The data unit 23 can store, for example, the results of calculations performed by the arithmetic unit 18. The data unit 23 of this embodiment includes a storage unit 23A. The storage unit 23A stores various types of data including, for example, first data and second data (both of which will be described later) required in the ability determination process.

[0034] [Program section] The program unit 24 is a program executed by the arithmetic device 18. When executed by the arithmetic device 18, the program unit 24 causes the control unit 8 (computer 9) to function as a means for executing specific processing. The program unit 24 of this embodiment includes, for example, an outside air temperature acquisition unit 24A, a maximum operation unit 24B, a first data acquisition unit 24C, a second data acquisition unit 24D, an air conditioning capacity calculation unit 24E, a determination unit 24F, a measurement unit 24G, an estimation unit 24H, and a display unit 24I. Note that the program unit 24 may include functions other than those described above. Each function of the program unit 24 will be explained in relation to each step of the performance determination method described below.

[0035] [Effects of whole-building air conditioning systems] In the whole-building air-conditioning system 1 of this embodiment, a command (e.g., cooling or heating and the set temperature) is input from the control unit 8 to the air conditioner 6, and the air conditioner 6 starts operating. The air conditioner 6 takes in a mixture of return air Ai and outside air Ao through the intake port 14 and discharges it from the outlet port 15 as conditioned air Ac. The control unit 8 also controls the air volume of the outside air supply fan 13 and the fan 16. By operating the fan 16, the conditioned air Ac is supplied to each room 5 via the duct 7. The return air Ai that has passed through each room 5 is supplied again to the intake port 14 of the air conditioner 6.

[0036] In this way, the central air conditioning system 1 of this embodiment can air-condition and ventilate multiple living rooms 5 while circulating air within the house 2. However, in such a central air conditioning system 1, the air conditioner 6 needs to be in a state where it can perform at the capacity that is originally expected in order to properly air-condition the multiple living rooms 5. To confirm this, in this embodiment, as will be described below, the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6 after installation in the house 2 is calculated, and the accuracy of the air conditioning capacity can be determined and displayed.

[0037] [How to determine the capacity of an air conditioner] 3, one embodiment of the capacity determination method of the present invention includes an outdoor temperature acquisition step S1 for acquiring the outdoor temperature, a maximum operation step S2 for operating the air conditioner 6 in maximum cooling or heating operation mode based on the outdoor temperature, a first data acquisition step S3 for acquiring first data necessary to calculate the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6 during the maximum operation step, a second data acquisition step S4 for acquiring second data related to the situation during the maximum operation step, an air conditioning capacity calculation step S5 for calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6 during the maximum operation step using the first data, a determination step S6 for determining the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity based on the second data, and a display step S7 for displaying information about the accuracy together with or instead of the air conditioning capacity. The capacity determination method of this embodiment can be performed at any time, but is preferably performed immediately after the air conditioner 6 is installed in the home 2, when checking whether the air conditioner 6 is properly installed and constructed. Another timing may be, for example, when it is felt that the air conditioning effect of the central air-conditioning system 1 is poor after the air conditioner 6 is installed. Each step will be described in detail below.

[0038] [Outside temperature acquisition step S1] In the outside air temperature acquisition step S1, for example, the outside air temperature acquisition unit 24A of the program unit 24 described above is loaded into the working memory 20. Then, the outside air temperature acquisition unit 24A is executed by the arithmetic device 18, thereby causing the control unit 8 (computer 9) to function as a means for acquiring the outside air temperature. The outside air temperature acquisition unit 24A acquires the outside air temperature by communicating with the outside air temperature sensor 28. The acquired outside air temperature data is stored in the working memory 20.

[0039] [Maximum operation step S2] Next, in the maximum operation step S2, for example, the maximum operation section 24B of the program section 24 described above is read into the working memory 20. Then, the maximum operation section 24B is executed by the arithmetic device 18, causing the control section 8 (computer 9) to function as a means for operating the air conditioner 6 in maximum operation mode.

[0040] The maximum operation unit 24B operates the air conditioner 6 in the maximum cooling or heating operation mode based on the acquired outdoor air temperature. For example, if the outdoor air temperature is higher than a predetermined reference temperature, the maximum operation unit 24B operates the air conditioner 6 in the maximum cooling operation mode. On the other hand, if the outdoor air temperature is equal to or lower than the predetermined reference temperature, the maximum operation unit 24B operates the air conditioner 6 in the maximum heating operation mode. The reference temperature can be set arbitrarily and is set to 24°C in this embodiment.

[0041] In this embodiment, operating the air conditioner 6 in the maximum cooling operation mode means operating the air conditioner 6 so that it can achieve its maximum cooling capacity. For this purpose, in this embodiment, the control unit 8 outputs a setting signal to the air conditioner 6 to set the operation mode to cooling, set the set temperature to the lowest temperature that can be set in the air conditioner 6 (e.g., 16°C), and maximize the airflow. Similarly, in this embodiment, operating the air conditioner 6 in the maximum heating operation mode means operating the air conditioner 6 so that it can achieve its maximum heating capacity. For this purpose, in this embodiment, the control unit 8 outputs a setting signal to the air conditioner 6 to set the operation mode to heating, set the set temperature to the highest temperature that can be set in the air conditioner 6 (e.g., 30°C), and maximize the airflow. However, the specific control commands to the air conditioner 6 may be modified in various ways as long as the above-mentioned purposes can be achieved.

[0042] In this embodiment, various data is acquired from the air conditioner 6 during the maximum operation step (described below), and the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6 during the maximum operation step is calculated. However, the performance of the air conditioner 6 may not be stable, for example, during the initial start-up of operation. Therefore, in order to calculate the air conditioning capacity more accurately, in a preferred embodiment, the maximum operation step S2 is desirably performed continuously for a predetermined period of time. In this embodiment, the maximum operation step S2 is configured to be performed continuously for approximately 10 minutes.

[0043] [First data acquisition step S3] In the first data acquisition step S3, for example, the first data acquisition section 24C of the above-mentioned program section 24 is loaded into the working memory 20. Then, the first data acquisition section 24C is executed by the arithmetic device 18, causing the control section 8 (computer 9) to function as a means for acquiring first data required to calculate the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6 during the maximum operation step S2.

[0044] The first data acquisition unit 24C of this embodiment is configured to access the air conditioner 6 and various sensors during the maximum operation step S2, and acquire the following data as the first data. Air temperature on the intake port 14 side of the indoor unit 6A Humidity of the air on the intake 14 side of the indoor unit 6A Air temperature on the outlet 15 side of the indoor unit 6A ·Airflow volume of outlet 15 of indoor unit 6A

[0045] The first data acquisition unit 24C may acquire the first data from the air conditioner 6 during the maximum operation step S2 at least once at a predetermined timing, but it is preferable to acquire the first data multiple times at predetermined intervals. For example, the above temperatures may vary at certain times, such as when the air conditioner 6 is initially starting up. However, acquiring multiple sets of first data at different times makes it possible to calculate the air conditioning capacity at each timing at which the first data was acquired, thereby obtaining more appropriate calculation results. In this embodiment, the first data acquisition unit 24C acquires the first data every minute during the 10-minute maximum operation step. In other words, the first data is acquired a total of 10 times.

[0046] [Second data acquisition step S4] Next, in the second data acquisition step S4, for example, the second data acquisition section 24D of the above-described program section 24 is loaded into the working memory 20. Then, the second data acquisition section 24D is executed by the arithmetic device 18, thereby causing the control section 8 (computer 9) to function as a means for acquiring second data relating to the situation during the maximum operation step S2.

[0047] The second data acquisition unit 24D of this embodiment is configured to acquire the following data as the second data. [1] Defrost signal [2] The temperature difference between the air temperature on the intake side of the air conditioner 6 and the set temperature of the indoor unit 6A in maximum operation mode [3] Outside temperature

[0048] The defrost signal [1] is a signal that is generated when the air conditioner 6 is in defrosting operation, and is stored on the air conditioner 6 side. Therefore, the second data acquisition unit 24D can access the air conditioner 6 and acquire the defrost signal if the air conditioner 6 is in defrosting operation. On the other hand, the second data acquisition unit 24D does not acquire the defrost signal if the air conditioner 6 is not in defrosting operation.

[0049] The temperature difference [2] can be obtained by the second data acquisition unit 24D accessing the air conditioner 6, acquiring the temperature of the air on the intake side of the air conditioner 6 and the set temperature of the indoor unit 6A in maximum operation mode, and calculating the difference between them.

[0050] The outside air temperature [3] can be acquired by the second data acquisition unit 24D accessing the outside air temperature sensor .

[0051] The second data only needs to be acquired at least once during the maximum operation step S2, but in a preferred embodiment, the second data acquisition unit 24D acquires the second data multiple times. In this embodiment, the second data is acquired multiple times, approximately synchronized with the data acquisition timing of the first data acquisition unit 24C. More specifically, the second data acquisition unit 24D acquires the second data every minute during the maximum operation step S2 of the air conditioner 6. Therefore, the second data is acquired a total of 10 times.

[0052] [Air conditioning capacity calculation step S5] Next, in the air conditioning capacity calculation step S5, for example, the air conditioning capacity calculation unit 24E of the above-mentioned program unit 24 is read into the working memory 20. Then, the air conditioning capacity calculation unit 24E is executed by the arithmetic device 18, causing the control unit 8 (computer 9) to function as a means for calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6 during the maximum operation step using the first data.

[0053] In the air conditioning capacity calculation step S5 of this embodiment, the air conditioning capacity (actual air conditioning capacity) of the air conditioner 6 during the maximum operation step S2 is calculated using the following formula (1), as in Patent Document 1. If there are no problems with the installation or construction of the air conditioner 6 and the maximum operation step S2 is carried out in a situation (environmental conditions) where the air conditioner 6 can exert its maximum air conditioning capacity, the air conditioning capacity calculated here will be approximately equal to the maximum air conditioning capacity that would actually be expected.

[0054]

number

[0055] The first data's airflow rate of the outlet 15 is substituted for the outlet airflow rate V in the above formula (1). The first data's air temperature of the outlet 14 is substituted for the inlet air temperature Ti in the above formula (1). The first data's air temperature of the outlet 15 is substituted for the outlet air temperature To in the above formula (1). The first data's air humidity (absolute humidity) of the inlet 14 is substituted for the inlet air humidity Xi in the above formula (1). Note that when the first data's air humidity of the inlet 14 is acquired as relative humidity, it is converted to absolute humidity using, for example, the first data's air temperature and humidity of the inlet 14.

[0056] The humidity of the air on the outlet 15 side (absolute humidity) is substituted for the humidity Xo of the air on the outlet side in the above formula (1). In this embodiment, the humidity of the air on the outlet 15 side is the humidity of the conditioned air Ac. Note that the first data in this embodiment does not include the humidity of the air on the outlet 15 side, so in this embodiment, the humidity on the outlet 15 side is found (estimated) based on the humidity of the air on the inlet 14 side and the temperature of the air on the outlet 15 side. For this, the method described in Patent Document 1 can be adopted.

[0057] As described above, the air conditioning capacity calculation unit 24E can calculate the air conditioning capacity during the maximum operation step of the air conditioner 6 installed in the house 2 based on the first data. The air conditioning capacity calculation unit 24E of this embodiment uses the first data acquired multiple times (10 times in this example) to calculate the air conditioning capacity at each acquisition timing.

[0058] [Decision step S6] Next, in determination step S6, for example, the determination section 24F of the program section 24 described above is loaded into the working memory 20. Then, the determination section 24F is executed by the arithmetic device 18, causing the control section 8 (computer 9) to function as a means for determining the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity based on the second data. In this embodiment, multiple air conditioning capacities are calculated, and the accuracy of the highest air conditioning capacity among them is determined. However, the accuracy of each air conditioning capacity may also be determined.

[0059] Fig. 4 shows a flowchart illustrating an example of the determination step S6. In the determination step S6 of this embodiment shown in Fig. 4, a comparison with a plurality of types of necessary conditions is performed (S61 to S63).

[0060] In this specification, the necessary conditions are several conditions required for the air conditioner 6 to maximize its air conditioning capacity. The necessary conditions in this embodiment include three: a defrost condition (S61), an indoor condition (S62), and an outdoor air condition (S63), which are stored in advance in the storage unit 23A. The necessary conditions may be one, preferably two or more, arbitrarily selected from the above. When the second data satisfies all of the necessary conditions, the determination unit 24F determines the accuracy to be at a high level (S64). On the other hand, when the second data does not satisfy at least one of the necessary conditions, the determination unit 24F determines the accuracy to be at a level lower than the high level (S65, S66).

[0061] In this embodiment, the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity is evaluated in three levels, Level 1 to 3, with "Level 3" being the lowest accuracy and "Level 1" being the highest accuracy. In this specification, the term "level" is used merely for convenience as a measure for evaluating the accuracy in multiple levels, and the term "level" itself does not need to be determined or judged as the judgment result of the judgment unit 24F. Figure 4 will be explained in detail below.

[0062] [Defrost conditions] In this embodiment, the judgment unit 24F first determines whether the second data satisfies the defrost condition (S61). The defrost condition is satisfied when a defrost signal is not acquired during maximum operation step S2. Generally, during defrost operation of the air conditioner 6, the air conditioner 6 cannot achieve maximum air conditioning capacity, and therefore the air conditioning capacity calculated in such a situation will be far from maximum air conditioning capacity. Therefore, in step S61, the judgment unit 24F can determine the accuracy of the air conditioning capacity by determining whether the defrost condition of the second data is satisfied.

[0063] Specifically, if the determination unit 24F does not acquire a defrost signal during the maximum operation step S2, it determines that the defrost condition is satisfied (Yes in S61). On the other hand, if the determination unit 24F acquires a defrost signal during the maximum operation step S2, it determines that the defrost condition is not satisfied (No in S61), and therefore determines that the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity is at the lowest level (Level 3 in this example) (S66). The result of this determination is stored, for example, in the memory unit 23A.

[0064] [Indoor conditions] In this embodiment, if the defrost condition is satisfied (Yes in S61), the determination unit 24F determines whether the indoor condition is satisfied for the second data (step S62). The indoor condition is, for example, a condition that the temperature difference between the air temperature on the intake side of the indoor unit 6A and the set temperature of the indoor unit 6A during maximum operation step S2 is within a predetermined appropriate temperature range. The indoor condition is satisfied when the temperature difference is within the appropriate temperature range. Generally, if the temperature difference is small, even if the air conditioner 6 is set to maximum operation mode, the air conditioner 6 may perform a so-called suppressed operation in which the current is reduced by control on the air conditioner 6 side, preventing the air conditioner 6 from operating at maximum air conditioning capacity. Therefore, in step S62, the determination unit 24F determines whether the indoor condition is satisfied for the second data, thereby determining the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity. The appropriate temperature range can be determined as appropriate based on the published temperature range of the air conditioner 6 manufacturer, etc., but in this embodiment, the temperature difference is set to 4°C or more.

[0065] Then, in step S62, the determination unit 24F refers to the second data, and if the temperature difference between the air temperature on the suction side of the indoor unit 6A and the set temperature of the indoor unit 6A during maximum operation step S2 is within the appropriate temperature range, it determines that the indoor conditions are satisfied (Yes in step S62). On the other hand, if the temperature difference is not within the appropriate temperature range, the indoor conditions are not satisfied (No in S62), and the determination unit 24F determines that the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity is at a low level. In this example, the accuracy is determined to be the lowest level (Level 3) of multiple predetermined levels (S66). This determination result is stored in the memory unit 23A.

[0066] [Outside air conditions] In this embodiment, if the defrosting condition and the indoor condition are satisfied (Yes in S61 and S62), the determination unit 24F of this embodiment determines whether the outdoor air condition is satisfied for the second data (step S63). The outdoor air condition, for example, is satisfied when the outdoor air temperature is within a predetermined appropriate range. Generally, manufacturers of air conditioners 6 specify the outdoor air temperature conditions for each air conditioner 6 that allow the air conditioner 6 to achieve its maximum expected air conditioning capacity in both heating and cooling modes. Therefore, by determining whether the outdoor air condition in the second data is satisfied, the accuracy of the air conditioning capacity can be determined. In this embodiment, the outdoor air condition is satisfied when the outdoor air temperature is below 7°C during heating mode and when the outdoor air temperature is between 24°C and 41°C during cooling mode.

[0067] Then, if the determination unit 24F determines in step S63 that the second data satisfies the outdoor air conditions (i.e., the outdoor air temperature is within the appropriate range) (Yes in S63), it determines the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity to be high (S64). In this case, the second data satisfies all of the necessary conditions, namely the defrost condition, the indoor condition, and the outdoor air condition, so the determination unit 24F determines the accuracy of the air conditioning capacity to be the highest level (Level 1) among multiple predetermined levels. This determination result is stored in the memory unit 23A.

[0068] On the other hand, in step S63, if the second data does not satisfy the outdoor air conditions (No in S63), the judgment unit 24F judges the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity to be an intermediate level (level 2) between the highest level (level 1) and the lowest level (level 3) (S65).

[0069] As described above, in the determination step S6 of this embodiment, the determination unit 24F determines the accuracy as a high level (Level 1) when the second data satisfies all of the necessary conditions. Furthermore, when the second data does not satisfy at least one of the necessary conditions (in this example, the defrost condition or the indoor condition), the determination unit 24F determines the accuracy as the lowest level (Level 3). Furthermore, when the second data satisfies the indoor condition but not the outdoor condition, the determination unit 24F determines the accuracy as an intermediate level (Level 2) between the highest level (Level 1) and the lowest level (Level 3). In this way, according to the capacity determination method for the air conditioner 6 of this embodiment, the accuracy can be determined at multiple levels using the second data and multiple types of necessary conditions. Note that in the example of determination step S6 in FIG. 4, the room temperature condition is determined before the outdoor air condition, but the outdoor air condition may be determined first.

[0070] [Display step S7] Next, in the display step S7, for example, the display unit 24I of the program unit 24 described above is read into the working memory 20. Then, the display unit 24I is executed by the arithmetic device 18, thereby causing the control unit 8 (computer 9) to function as a means for displaying the information relating to the accuracy, such as the air conditioning capacity.

[0071] The display unit 24I of this embodiment displays information about the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity together with or instead of the air conditioning capacity on the display device 22 (S7). The information about the accuracy is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, the determined accuracy itself, or various information prepared in advance corresponding to the accuracy.

[0072] Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of such a display step S7. As shown in Fig. 5, for example, if the accuracy of the air conditioning capacity determined in the determination step S6 is at the lowest level (level 3), the situation during the maximum operation step S2 can be said to be a situation in which the air conditioner 6 cannot exert its maximum air conditioning capacity, and therefore it can be assumed that the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity is also extremely low. On the other hand, if the timing of measuring the capacity is shifted, it may be possible to exert the original maximum air conditioning capacity. From this perspective, when the accuracy is level 3, the display unit 24I of this embodiment displays information to make the user aware that re-measurement of the air conditioning capacity is necessary.

[0073] In a more specific example, if the accuracy is level 3, the display unit 24I causes the display device 22 to display a message such as "remeasure" (S72). This message may be changed as appropriate as long as it conveys the same meaning. Thereafter, a necessary message (described below) is displayed on the display device 22 (S76). Therefore, in the capacity determination method of this embodiment, if the situation during the maximum operation step S2 is deemed inappropriate, information regarding accuracy is displayed instead of displaying the air conditioning capacity (i.e., the air conditioning capacity is not displayed). However, the air conditioning capacity may also be displayed.

[0074] Next, if the accuracy of the air conditioning capacity determined in determination step S6 is at an intermediate level (level 2), the situation in maximum operation step S2 is not appropriate, but it cannot be said to be completely meaningless compared to level 3. For this reason, when the accuracy is at an intermediate level (level 2), the display unit 24I of this embodiment causes the display device 22 to display a message such as "reference value" (S74). This message may be changed as appropriate as long as it conveys the same meaning.

[0075] Furthermore, if the accuracy of the air conditioning capacity determined in determination step S6 is the highest level (level 1), it can be assumed that the situation in maximum operation step S2 was appropriate for operating the air conditioner 6 at maximum capacity. For this reason, when the accuracy is the highest level (level 1), the display unit 24I of this embodiment displays information to make the user aware that the accuracy of the air conditioning capacity is confirmed information with an extremely high degree of accuracy. In this embodiment, when the accuracy is level 1, for example, a message such as "confirmed value" is displayed on the display device 22 (S73). This message may be changed as appropriate as long as it conveys the same meaning.

[0076] Following steps S73 and S74, the display unit 24I reads the calculated air conditioning capacity from the memory unit 23A and displays it on the display device 22 (S75). A prepared message is then displayed on the display device 22 (S76). In a preferred embodiment, the display unit 24I may display on the display device 22, in addition to the air conditioning capacity, the first data on which the calculation was based.

[0077] The display of the air conditioning capacity can be performed in various display modes, as long as the information makes it possible to determine whether the air conditioner 6 is performing at the capacity that is originally expected. For example, the capacity information of the air conditioner 6 may display a specific kw value of the calculated air conditioning capacity, or may display a ratio to an expected air conditioning capacity predetermined for the air conditioner 6 (air conditioning capacity / expected air conditioning capacity) or a percentage thereof.

[0078] Fig. 6 shows a timeline of an example of an interface screen displayed on the display device 22. As shown on the left side of Fig. 6, the display device 22 first displays a menu screen D1 for starting the capacity determination method of this embodiment. This screen displays icons for "Start measurement" and "Back" for returning to the main menu, relating to "Air Conditioner Capacity Measurement" of the air conditioning system.

[0079] When the user operates the "Start measurement" button, a message screen D2 "Checking operation" is displayed on the display device 22, indicating that a capacity determination of the air conditioner 6 is being carried out, as shown in the upper center of Fig. 6. Note that when the "Cancel" icon is operated on the message screen D2, an interrupt signal is generated, and the capacity determination method shown in Fig. 3 can be stopped.

[0080] Next, when the capacity determination method is completed, a determination result screen D3 for "air conditioner capacity measurement" is displayed on the display device 22, as shown on the right side of Fig. 6. This determination result screen D3 displays, as first data, the distinction between the maximum operation mode ("cooling measurement" or "heating measurement"), the "outdoor air temperature," the "intake temperature" of the indoor unit 6A, the "discharge temperature" of the indoor unit 6A, the "absolute humidity" of the return air Ai, the "air conditioning capacity," and information regarding the accuracy of the air conditioning capacity (in this example, the "confirmed value"). Therefore, from this determination result screen D3, the user can learn about the calculated air conditioning capacity and its accuracy, taking into account environmental conditions, etc.

[0081] If the defrost conditions are not met during the maximum operation step S2, the display device 22 may display a predetermined message screen D4 explaining the reason, etc., along with the words "remeasure," as shown in the lower center of Figure 6.

[0082] As described above, according to the method and device for determining the capacity of an air conditioner 6 of this embodiment, the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6 can be easily determined by taking into account the situation (environmental conditions) at the time of capacity determination, etc.

[0083] 7 shows a chart that classifies the accuracy of air conditioning capacity using more specific environmental conditions when maximum operation step S2 is performed for heating. Here, the set temperature of the air conditioner 6 in maximum operation step S2 is set to 30°C, the outdoor temperature condition is less than 7°C, and the indoor temperature difference between the set temperature and the outdoor temperature is set to 4°C or more.

[0084] In the example of Figure 7, if the outdoor and indoor conditions are met, the calculated air conditioning capacity is determined to be a final value, and the result is displayed on the display device 22. At this time, since the air conditioning capacity is a "final value," it is preferable to display a message (22A) urging the user to confirm the value.

[0085] Furthermore, even if the outdoor conditions are met, if the indoor conditions are not met (suction temperature 26°C or higher), the air conditioning capacity is determined to be "remeasured" and the result is displayed on the display device 22 (22B). At this time, it is preferable to display a message instructing the user to open a window in the room or to operate the air conditioner in cooling mode to reduce the suction temperature of the indoor unit 6A to below 26°C in order to adjust the indoor conditions.

[0086] Next, if the outdoor conditions are not met (outdoor temperature is 7°C or higher but lower than 24°C) but the indoor conditions are met (intake temperature lower than 26°C), the calculated air conditioning capacity is determined to be a "reference value" and the result is displayed on the display device 22 (22C). In this case, it is preferable to display a message to inform the user that the outdoor temperature is high as the reason for the determination to be a reference value.

[0087] Furthermore, if both the outdoor and indoor conditions are not met, the air conditioning capacity is determined to be "remeasured" and the result is displayed on the display device 22 (22D). In this case, it is also preferable to display a message instructing the user to open a window in the room or to operate the air conditioner in cooling mode to reduce the intake temperature of the indoor unit 6A to below 26°C in order to adjust the indoor conditions.

[0088] FIG. 8 shows a time series graph of the outdoor air temperature when the air conditioning capacity is determined to be a final value, the air conditioning capacity that the air conditioner 6 can theoretically deliver in the environment at that time, and the calculated air conditioning capacity for the example in FIG. 7. The horizontal axis represents time, with the time when maximum operation step S2 begins set to zero. The vertical axis represents the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6. In the example in FIG. 8, it can be seen that approximately five minutes after the start of maximum operation step S2, the calculated air conditioning capacity reaches 100% of the theoretically deliverable air conditioning capacity and stabilizes.

[0089] Figure 9 shows a time-series graph of the outdoor temperature, the expected capacity of the air conditioner 6, and the calculated air conditioning capacity for the example in Figure 7 when the air conditioning capacity is determined to be a reference value. The horizontal and vertical axes are the same as those in Figure 8. The maximum operation step S2 starts, for example, at 12:20, and the calculated air conditioning capacity is approximately 77%. Because the outdoor temperature is high at 15°C, the calculated air conditioning capacity is displayed along with the accuracy information, called a "reference value." Looking at the air conditioning capacity alone, one might suspect a problem with the installation or construction of the air conditioner 6 in the air conditioning system. However, in this case, the accuracy information, called a "reference value," is also displayed, allowing the user to recognize that the low air conditioning capacity is due to the situation during the maximum operation step S2. Therefore, the user can adjust the environmental conditions and then re-evaluate the air conditioning capacity before checking the installation status of the air conditioner 6.

[0090] 10 shows a chart that classifies the accuracy of air conditioning capacity under more specific environmental conditions when maximum operation step S2 is performed in cooling mode. Here, the set temperature of the air conditioner 6 in maximum operation step S2 is 16°C, the outdoor temperature condition is 24°C or higher and lower than 41°C, and the indoor temperature condition is a temperature difference of 4°C or higher between the set temperature and the outdoor temperature.

[0091] In the example of Figure 10, if the outdoor air conditions and indoor conditions are met, the calculated air conditioning capacity is determined to be a "confirmed value," and the result is displayed on the display device 22 (22E). At this time, since the air conditioning capacity is a "confirmed value," it is preferable to display a message prompting the user to confirm the value.

[0092] Furthermore, even if the outdoor conditions are met, if the indoor conditions are not met (intake temperature less than 20°C), the air conditioning capacity is determined to be "remeasured" and the result is displayed on the display device 22 (22F). At this time, it is preferable to display a message instructing the user to open a window in the room or to operate the heating system to raise the intake temperature of the indoor unit 6A to 20°C or higher in order to adjust the indoor conditions.

[0093] Next, if the outdoor conditions are not met but the indoor conditions are met, the calculated air conditioning capacity is judged to be a "reference value" and the result is displayed on the display device 22 (22G). At this time, it is preferable to display a message to inform the user that the outdoor temperature is high as the reason for the judgment to be a reference value.

[0094] Furthermore, if both the outdoor and indoor conditions are not met, the air conditioning capacity is determined to be "remeasured" and the result is displayed on the display device 22 (22H). In this case, it is also preferable to display a message instructing the user to open a window in the room or to operate the heating function to raise the intake temperature of the indoor unit 6A to 20°C or higher in order to adjust the indoor conditions.

[0095] [Other embodiments] 11 shows another embodiment of the method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner 6 of the present invention. This embodiment further includes a measurement step S8 and an estimation step S9, which may be performed, for example, between the determination step S6 and the display step S7.

[0096] In the measurement step S8, for example, the measurement section 24G of the program section 24 described above is loaded into the working memory 20. Then, the measurement section 24G is executed by the arithmetic device 18, thereby causing the control section 8 (computer 9) to function as a means for measuring a physical quantity, which is a current value of the air conditioner 6 during the maximum operation step S2 or a parameter correlated therewith. Data on the measured physical quantity is stored in the working memory 20.

[0097] In this embodiment, the control unit 8 communicates with the air conditioner 6 to obtain the value of the current flowing through the air conditioner 6. This current value may be provided in advance in the air conditioner 6, or may be provided separately. Furthermore, the physical quantity may be any of a variety of parameters that correlate with the current value, and may be, for example, the power consumption of the air conditioner 6 measured by a wattmeter.

[0098] In the estimation step S9, for example, the estimation section 24H of the program section 24 described above is loaded into the working memory 20. Then, the estimation section 24H is executed by the arithmetic device 18, causing the control section 8 (computer 9) to function as a means for estimating the theoretical air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6 based on the current value of the air conditioner 6 and pre-stored correlation data. The estimated air conditioning capacity is stored in the working memory 20.

[0099] 12, the correlation data associates the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6 with the value of the current flowing through the air conditioner 6. The correlation data is stored in advance in the storage unit 23A.

[0100] 12, in this example, the air conditioning capacity and the current value can be related by an approximately linear function. Therefore, in estimation step S9, the current value of the air conditioner 6 measured in measurement step S8 and pre-stored correlation data can be used to estimate the theoretical air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6 at that time (a ratio to the maximum air conditioning capacity). Then, in display step S7, the theoretical air conditioning capacity estimated in estimation step S9 is further displayed.

[0101] In such an embodiment, for example, even if the calculated air conditioning capacity is determined as a reference value, by referring to the theoretical air conditioning capacity, if the difference between the two is small, it is possible to suspect the possibility of the air conditioner 6 being operated in a restrained manner due to environmental conditions rather than poor installation or construction of the air conditioner 6, further improving the accuracy of determining the capacity of the air conditioner 6.

[0102] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the above specific disclosures and can be implemented in various modifications within the scope of the technical idea described in the claims. The present invention also includes equivalents thereof.

[0103] [Note] The present invention includes the following aspects.

[0104] [Invention 1] A method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner installed in a building, comprising: an outside air temperature acquisition step of acquiring an outside air temperature; a maximum operation step of operating the air conditioner in a maximum cooling or heating operation mode based on the outside air temperature; a first data acquisition step of acquiring first data necessary for calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner during the maximum operation step; a second data acquisition step of acquiring second data relating to a situation during the maximum operation step; an air conditioning capacity calculation step of calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner during the maximum operation step using the first data; a determining step of determining the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity based on the second data; A display step of displaying information about the accuracy together with the air conditioning capacity or instead of the air conditioning capacity. How to determine the capacity of an air conditioner. [Invention 2] The determining step comparing the second data with a plurality of predetermined necessary conditions required for the air conditioner to exert its maximum air conditioning capacity; When the second data satisfies all of the necessary conditions, the certainty is determined to be at a high level; The air conditioner capacity determination method according to aspect 1, wherein the certainty is determined to be at a low level when the second data does not satisfy at least one of the necessary conditions. [Invention 3] the second data includes a defrost signal generated when the air conditioner is in a defrosting operation, A method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner according to aspect 2, wherein the necessary conditions include a defrost condition that requires that the defrost signal not be acquired during the maximum operation step. [Invention 4] A method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner according to a third aspect of the present invention, wherein the determining step determines the degree of certainty to be at a lower level when the defrosting condition is not satisfied. [Invention 5] An air conditioner capacity determination method as described in Invention 4, in which, when the accuracy is determined to be at a lower level, the display step displays information regarding the accuracy to make the user aware that re-measurement of the air conditioning capacity is necessary. [Invention 6] The air conditioner includes an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, the second data includes a temperature difference that is the difference between the temperature on the suction side of the indoor unit and the set temperature of the indoor unit during the maximum operation step; 6. The air conditioner capacity determination method according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the necessary conditions include an indoor condition that the temperature difference is within a predetermined appropriate temperature range. [Invention 7] 7. The air conditioner capacity determination method according to claim 6, wherein the determination step determines the degree of certainty to be at a lower level when the indoor conditions are not satisfied. [Invention 8] An air conditioner capacity determination method as described in Invention 7, in which, when the accuracy is determined to be at a lower level, the display step displays information regarding the accuracy to make the user aware that re-measurement of the air conditioning capacity is necessary. [Invention 9] the second data includes an outside air temperature; A method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner according to any one of Present Inventions 2 to 8, wherein the necessary conditions include an outdoor air condition that requires the outdoor air temperature to be within a predetermined optimum range. [Invention 10] 9. The method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner according to claim 9, wherein the determining step determines the degree of certainty to be at a higher level when the indoor conditions and the outdoor air conditions are satisfied. [Invention 11] An air conditioner capacity determination method as described in Invention 10, in which, when the certainty is determined to be at a higher level, the display step displays information regarding the certainty to make the user aware that the air conditioning capacity is a confirmed value. [Invention 12] A method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner described in any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the determination step determines the accuracy to be an intermediate level between a higher level and a lower level when the indoor conditions are satisfied but the outdoor air conditions are not satisfied. [Invention 13] An air conditioner capacity determination method as described in Invention 12, in which, when the accuracy is determined to be at the intermediate level, the display step displays information regarding the accuracy to make the user aware that the air conditioning capacity is a reference value. [Invention 14] a measuring step of measuring a physical quantity that is a current value of the air conditioner or a parameter correlated therewith during the maximum operation step; and estimating a theoretical air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner based on the measured physical quantity and pre-stored correlation data relating the theoretical air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner to the physical quantity, 14. The air conditioner capacity determination method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the display step further displays the theoretical air conditioning capacity estimated in the estimation step. [Invention 15] The building is equipped with a whole-building air conditioning system for supplying conditioned air to a plurality of rooms, 15. The method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the air conditioner is used as a heat source for the central air conditioning system. [Invention 16] A capacity determination device for an air conditioner installed in a building, an outside air temperature acquisition unit that acquires an outside air temperature; a maximum operation unit that operates the air conditioner in a maximum operation mode of cooling or heating based on the outside air temperature; a first data acquisition unit that acquires first data necessary to calculate the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner operating in the maximum operation mode; a second data acquisition unit that acquires second data related to a situation during driving in the maximum driving mode; an air conditioning capacity calculation unit that calculates the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner operating in the maximum operation mode using the first data; a determination unit that determines the accuracy of the air conditioning capacity based on the second data; A display unit that displays information about the accuracy together with or instead of the air conditioning capacity, An air conditioner capacity determination device. [Invention 17] A program for determining the capacity of an air conditioner installed in a building, an outside air temperature acquisition step of acquiring an outside air temperature; a maximum operation step of operating the air conditioner in a maximum cooling or heating operation mode based on the outside air temperature; a first data acquisition step of acquiring first data necessary for calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner during the maximum operation step; a second data acquisition step of acquiring second data relating to a situation during the maximum operation step; an air conditioning capacity calculation step of calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner during the maximum operation step using the first data; a determining step of determining the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity based on the second data; a display step of displaying information about the accuracy together with the air conditioning capacity or instead of the air conditioning capacity. A program for determining the capacity of air conditioners. [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 1. Whole-building air conditioning system 5 Room 6. Air conditioner 6A indoor unit 9. Computer 24A Outside temperature acquisition unit 24B Maximum operating section 24C First Data Acquisition Unit 24D Second Data Acquisition Unit 24E Air conditioning capacity calculation section 24F Judgment section 24I display section S1 Outside temperature acquisition step S2 Maximum operation step S3 First data acquisition step S4 Second data acquisition step S5 Air conditioning capacity calculation step S6 Judgment step S7 Display Step S8 Measurement Step S9 Estimation step

Claims

1. A method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner installed in a building, comprising: an outside air temperature acquisition step of acquiring an outside air temperature; a maximum operation step of operating the air conditioner in a maximum cooling or heating operation mode based on the outside air temperature; a first data acquisition step of acquiring first data necessary for calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner during the maximum operation step; a second data acquisition step of acquiring second data relating to a situation during the maximum operating step; an air conditioning capacity calculation step of calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner during the maximum operation step using the first data; a determining step of determining the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity based on the second data; A display step of displaying information about the accuracy together with the air conditioning capacity or instead of the air conditioning capacity. How to determine the capacity of an air conditioner.

2. The determining step comparing the second data with a plurality of predetermined necessary conditions required for the air conditioner to exert a maximum air conditioning capacity; When the second data satisfies all of the necessary conditions, the certainty is determined to be at a high level; The method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the degree of certainty is determined to be low when the second data does not satisfy at least one of the necessary conditions.

3. the second data includes a defrost signal generated when the air conditioner is in a defrosting operation, The method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner according to claim 2 , wherein the necessary conditions include a defrost condition that requires that the defrost signal not be acquired during the maximum operation step.

4. The method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner according to claim 3, wherein the determining step determines the degree of certainty to be at a lower level when the defrosting condition is not satisfied.

5. An air conditioner capacity determination method as described in claim 4, wherein when the accuracy is determined to be at a lower level, the display step displays information regarding the accuracy to make the user aware that re-measurement of the air conditioning capacity is necessary.

6. The air conditioner includes an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, the second data includes a temperature difference that is the difference between the temperature on the suction side of the indoor unit and the set temperature of the indoor unit during the maximum operation step; The method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner according to claim 2 , wherein the necessary conditions include an indoor condition that the temperature difference is within a predetermined appropriate temperature range.

7. The method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner according to claim 6, wherein the determining step determines the degree of certainty to be at a lower level when the indoor condition is not satisfied.

8. An air conditioner capacity determination method as described in claim 7, wherein when the accuracy is determined to be at a lower level, the display step displays information regarding the accuracy to make the user aware that re-measurement of the air conditioning capacity is necessary.

9. the second data includes an outside air temperature; The method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner according to claim 6, wherein the necessary conditions include an outdoor air condition that the outdoor air temperature is within a predetermined optimum range.

10. The determining step determines the degree of certainty to be at a higher level when the indoor conditions and the outdoor conditions are satisfied. The method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner according to claim 9.

11. An air conditioner capacity determination method as described in claim 10, wherein when the certainty is determined to be at a higher level, the display step displays information regarding the certainty to allow the user to recognize that the air conditioning capacity is a confirmed value.

12. 12. The method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner according to claim 9, wherein the determination step determines the certainty to be an intermediate level between a higher level and a lower level when the indoor condition is satisfied but the outdoor air condition is not satisfied.

13. An air conditioner capacity determination method as described in claim 12, wherein when the accuracy is determined to be at the intermediate level, the display step displays information regarding the accuracy to make the user aware that the air conditioning capacity is a reference value.

14. a measuring step of measuring a physical quantity that is a current value of the air conditioner or a parameter correlated therewith during the maximum operation step; and estimating a theoretical air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner based on the measured physical quantity and pre-stored correlation data associating the theoretical air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner with the physical quantity, The air conditioner capacity determination method according to claim 1 , wherein the display step further displays the theoretical air conditioning capacity estimated in the estimation step.

15. The building is equipped with a whole-building air conditioning system for supplying conditioned air to a plurality of rooms, The method for determining the capacity of an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the air conditioner is used as a heat source of the central air conditioning system.

16. A capacity determination device for an air conditioner installed in a building, an outside air temperature acquisition unit that acquires an outside air temperature; a maximum operation unit that operates the air conditioner in a maximum operation mode of cooling or heating based on the outside air temperature; a first data acquisition unit that acquires first data necessary to calculate the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner operating in the maximum operation mode; a second data acquisition unit that acquires second data related to a situation during driving in the maximum driving mode; an air conditioning capacity calculation unit that calculates the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner operating in the maximum operation mode using the first data; a determination unit that determines the accuracy of the air conditioning capacity based on the second data; A display unit that displays information about the accuracy together with or instead of the air conditioning capacity, An air conditioner capacity determination device.

17. A program for determining the capacity of an air conditioner installed in a building, an outside air temperature acquisition step of acquiring an outside air temperature; a maximum operation step of operating the air conditioner in a maximum cooling or heating operation mode based on the outside air temperature; a first data acquisition step of acquiring first data necessary for calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner during the maximum operation step; a second data acquisition step of acquiring second data relating to a situation during the maximum operating step; an air conditioning capacity calculation step of calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner during the maximum operation step using the first data; a determining step of determining the accuracy of the calculated air conditioning capacity based on the second data; a display step of displaying information about the accuracy together with the air conditioning capacity or instead of the air conditioning capacity. A program for determining the capacity of air conditioners.

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