Air conditioning system

Abstract

To provide an air conditioning system capable of suppressing increase of power consumption due to frequent start and stop of a humidifier and preventing discomfort of a user due to rapid increase and decrease of humidity in a living space.SOLUTION: An air-conditioning system 40 according to the present invention includes a humidifier 1 for humidifying air in a living space having a window 8 facing an outdoor 10b, a ventilation device 3 for ventilating the living space, and a controller 7 for controlling the humidifier 1 and the ventilation device 3. Based on a dew-point temperature of living space air and a window surface temperature on a living space side, control is performed to switch between a first humidification mode in which humidification is performed under a humidification condition in which the amount of moisture supplied to a living room space is equal to or greater than the amount of moisture discharged from the living room space by a ventilation device (3), and a second humidification mode in which humidification is performed under a humidification condition in which the amount of moisture supplied to the living room space by the humidification device (1) is less than the amount of moisture discharged from the living room space by the ventilation device (3).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioning system. [Background technology]

[0002] In winter, when the room temperature and humidity are high while the outdoor temperature is low, air conditioning systems detect the room temperature, outdoor temperature, and humidity, calculate the surface temperature of the wall or window facing the room from the outdoor temperature, and perform dehumidification or humidification operation so that this temperature does not fall below the dew point temperature of the room air calculated from the room temperature and humidity (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-42993 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In conventional air conditioning systems, in order to lower the dew point temperature of the room air and prevent condensation on the surfaces of walls and windows while maintaining a comfortable humidity environment, it is necessary to stop the humidification operation or perform dehumidification, but frequent turning on and off of the humidifier or dehumidifier increases power consumption.In addition, there is a concern that humidity control using a dehumidifier can cause sudden increases and decreases in humidity in the living space, causing discomfort to users.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention solves the above problem by providing an air conditioning system that can suppress an increase in power consumption due to frequent starting and stopping of a humidifier and prevent a sudden increase or decrease in humidity in the living space. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The air conditioning system of the present invention includes a humidifier that humidifies the air in a living space having a window facing the outdoors, a ventilation device that ventilates the living space, and a controller that controls the humidifier and the ventilation device. The controller is capable of switching between a first humidification mode in which humidification is performed under humidifying conditions in which the amount of moisture supplied to the living space by the humidifier is equal to or greater than the amount of moisture discharged from the living space by the ventilation device, and a second humidification mode in which humidification is performed under humidifying conditions in which the amount of moisture supplied to the living space by the humidifier is less than the amount of moisture discharged from the living space by the ventilation device. Furthermore, the controller switches between the first humidification mode and the humidification mode based on the living space dew point temperature of the air in the living space and the window surface temperature on the living space side of the window. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress an increase in power consumption due to frequent starting and stopping of the humidifier, and to prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable due to a sudden increase or decrease in humidity in the living space. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a house according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the controller. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the procedure for determining the amount of humidification and the amount of ventilation by the controller. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the humidification mode determination process of FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the procedure for determining the humidification amount and ventilation amount in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram including an equation for calculating the control reference value. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the transition of the room dew point temperature when control is performed to switch between the first humidification mode and the second humidification mode. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Before describing the specific embodiments of the present invention, an overview of the embodiments will be provided. This embodiment is an air conditioning system installed in a facility such as a house, which controls air conditioning for the facility. The air conditioning system dehumidifies the living space within the facility by ventilation. Here, dehumidification includes exhausting moisture contained in the air in the living space (living air) and supplying air from outside the facility (outdoor air) to the living space. Note that, among dehumidification methods by ventilation, supplying air is effective when the humidity outdoors is lower than that of the living space. For example, supplying air in winter when the outside air is dry can dehumidify the living space.

[0010] The examples described below each illustrate a preferred specific example of the present disclosure. Therefore, the numerical values, shapes, materials, components, component placement and connection configurations, steps (processes), and step order shown in the following examples are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Therefore, among the components in the following examples, components that are not described in the independent claims that represent the highest concept of the present disclosure are described as optional components. Furthermore, in each drawing, substantially identical components are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted or simplified. (Embodiment) With reference to FIG. 1, the overall configuration of an air-conditioning system 40 applied to a house 30 will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the house 30 according to this embodiment. The house 30 is a building having at least one living space, and as an example, includes a living room 10a and an air-conditioned room 20. In this embodiment, the living room 10a faces the outdoors 10b across a window 8. Here, the living space is a space where a person lives, and in this embodiment, this corresponds to the living room 10a. The air-conditioned room 20 is a space independent of the living room 10a and is not a living space. The air-conditioning system 40 conditions the air in the living room 10a, which is a living space, by transporting air conditioned in the air-conditioned room 20 to the living room 10a. In FIG. 1, the living room 10a is shown as a living space as an example, but the house 30 may have multiple living spaces. When the house 30 has multiple living spaces, the house 30 may be configured so that conditioned air from the air-conditioned room 20 is transported to the multiple living rooms through multiple ducts.

[0011] The air conditioning system 40 installed in the residence 30 includes a humidifier 1, a blower 2, a first air transport duct 4a, a ventilation device 3, a second air transport duct 4b, a third air transport duct 4c, a room humidity sensor 5a, a room temperature sensor 5b, an outdoor temperature sensor 6, and a controller 7. The air conditioning system 40 may also include an air conditioner 22 for adjusting the temperature of the air-conditioned room 20. With this configuration, when air-conditioning the entire living space of the residence 30, not only the humidity but also the temperature can be adjusted. When the air conditioner 22 is installed in the air-conditioned room 20, it is located upstream of the blower 2.

[0012] The humidifier 1 controls the humidity of the air inside the air-conditioned room 20. The humidifier 1 is installed in the air-conditioned room 20. The humidifier 1 humidifies the air flowing into the air-conditioned room 20 and blows the air at a set air volume so that the humidity inside the air-conditioned room 20 reaches a set level. Humidifiers 1 are broadly classified into ultrasonic, steam, hybrid, and evaporative types. In this embodiment, the humidifier 1 is assumed to be an evaporative type that uses a motor, for example. Since an evaporative humidifier 1 places a heavy load on the motor during startup, increasing power consumption, continuous operation reduces power consumption compared to frequent start-stop operation. Note that even with other types such as ultrasonic and steam humidifiers, the load on the humidifier 1 during startup is heavy, so it is preferable to continue operating the humidifier 1 without stopping it in order to reduce power consumption.

[0013] An air conditioner 22 may also be installed downstream of the humidifier 1. The air conditioner 22 heats or cools the air output from the humidifier 1 and blows it at a set air volume so that the air temperature inside the air-conditioned room 20 reaches a set temperature. A HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter 24 may also be installed downstream of the air conditioner 22. The HEPA filter 24 is an air filter that removes dirt, dust, and the like from the air conditioned by the humidifier 1 and air conditioner 22, allowing purified air to be output.

[0014] The blower 2 is a transport fan and is installed downstream of the HEPA filter 24 in the air-conditioned room 20, and blows the air inside the air-conditioned room 20 into the living room 10a. The blower 2 is, for example, a sirocco fan. The air in the air-conditioned room 20 has its humidity adjusted by the humidifier 1, its temperature adjusted by the air conditioner 22, and is purified by the HEPA filter 24 before being transported to the living room 10a by the blower 2.

[0015] In this embodiment, the humidifier 1, the air conditioner 22, and the HEPA filter 24 are arranged in this order from upstream to downstream, but the order is not limited to this. Any arrangement is possible as long as the room 10a can be air-conditioned at the set temperature and humidity.

[0016] The first transport air duct 4a is an air duct for transporting air from the air-conditioned room 20 to the living room 10a. In other words, the first transport air duct 4a is an air duct for transporting air that has been conditioned by the humidifier 1 and the air conditioner 22 and purified by the HEPA filter 24 to the living room 10a. The first transport air duct 4a may be, for example, a duct that connects the air-conditioned room 20 and the living room 10a, or a through-hole provided in the wall between the air-conditioned room 20 and the living room 10a to allow ventilation. The air blown out by the blower 2 passes through the first transport air duct 4a and is guided from the air-conditioned room 20 to the living room 10a.

[0017] The ventilation device 3 is equipped with a transport fan and transports air from the living room 10a (hereinafter referred to as "living room air") to the outdoor 10b and air from the outdoor 10b (hereinafter referred to as "outdoor air") to the living room 10a, thereby performing Type 1 ventilation. The ventilation device 3 is installed in a space inside the house 30 other than the living room 10a and the air-conditioned room 20, such as the attic, a wall, under the eaves, between floors, or a ventilation room. Here, the ventilation room is a space independent of the living room 10a and the air-conditioned room 20 and is not a living room space. In this embodiment, as an example, the ventilation device 3 is located in the attic. When performing Type 1 ventilation, exhaust air is exhausted by a transport fan (exhaust fan) corresponding to the second transport air duct 4b, and air is supplied by a transport fan (supply fan) corresponding to the third transport air duct 4c. Note that the ventilation device 3 may be equipped with a total heat exchanger to exchange heat between the exhaust air passing through the second transport air duct 4b and the supply air passing through the third transport air duct 4c. With this configuration, the amount of moisture discharged from living room 10a can be considered to be the sum of the decrease in moisture content of the exhaust air transported from the living room air to outdoors 10b after heat exchange in the total heat exchanger and the increase in moisture content of the supply air transported from outdoors to living room 10a. In other words, humidity can be reduced more gradually than when only air is exhausted from or supplied to living room 10a, thereby reducing discomfort caused by sudden changes in humidity.

[0018] Here, the second transport air duct 4b is an air duct for transporting room air to the outdoors 10b. When the ventilation device 3 is configured to perform type 3 ventilation, the transport fan (exhaust fan) of the ventilation device 3 guides the air in the room 10a through the second transport air duct 4b to the outdoors 10b.

[0019] Additionally, the third transport air duct 4c is an air duct for transporting outdoor air to the living room 10a. When the ventilation device 3 is configured to perform type 2 ventilation, the outdoor air is guided to the living room 10a through the third transport air duct 4c by the transport fan (air supply fan) provided in the ventilation device 3.

[0020] The ventilation device 3 may be configured to perform type 2 ventilation. In this case, only the third transport air duct 4c is provided in the air conditioning system 40, and only air is supplied by the ventilation device 3. In addition, when the second transport air duct 4b and the third transport air duct 4c are present as in this embodiment, the configuration may be such that only the transport fan corresponding to the third transport air duct 4c is operated. When configured to perform type 2 ventilation, the third transport air duct 4c is an air duct that transports outdoor air to the living room 10a. The room air is exhausted by being pushed out by the outdoor air that has been supplied to the living room 10a through the third transport air duct 4c. Here, the exhaust air from the living room 10a to the outdoors 10b is naturally exhausted through gaps in the house 30, such as a louver in the living room 10a. In this way, when performing type 2 ventilation, the amount of moisture exhausted from the living room 10a by the ventilation device 3 can be considered to be the amount of moisture exhausted from the natural exhaust port.

[0021] The ventilation device 3 may also be configured to perform type 3 ventilation. In this case, only the second transport air duct 4b is provided in the air conditioning system 40, and only exhaust air is performed by the ventilation device 3. Note that, in the case where the second transport air duct 4b and the third transport air duct 4c exist as in this embodiment, the configuration may be such that only the transport fan corresponding to the second transport air duct 4b is operated. When configured to perform type 3 ventilation, second transport air duct 4b is an air duct that transports room air to the outdoors. When room air is exhausted from room 10a, negative pressure is created in room 10a, and air is naturally drawn in through gaps in house 30, such as louvers in room 10a. When performing type 3 ventilation, the amount of moisture exhausted from room 10a by ventilation device 3 can be considered to be the amount of moisture in the exhaust air transported from room 10a to the outdoors 10b.

[0022] The living room humidity sensor 5a and the living room temperature sensor 5b are installed in the living room 10a. The living room humidity sensor 5a detects the humidity in the living room 10a (hereinafter referred to as "living room humidity"), and the living room temperature sensor 5b detects the temperature in the living room 10a (hereinafter referred to as "living room temperature"). The living room humidity sensor 5a and the living room temperature sensor 5b have communication functions and transmit the living room temperature and living room humidity to the controller 7. The outdoor temperature sensor 6 is installed outside 10b. The outdoor temperature sensor 6 detects the temperature of the outside 10b (hereinafter referred to as "outdoor temperature"). The outdoor temperature sensor 6 has communication functions and transmits the outdoor temperature to the controller 7.

[0023] The controller 7 is installed in the air-conditioned room 20 and controls the entire air-conditioning system 40. The controller 7 is communicatively connected to the humidifier 1, the air conditioner 22, the blower 2, the ventilation device 3, the living room humidity sensor 5a, the living room temperature sensor 5b, and the outdoor temperature sensor 6 via wireless or wired communication. The controller 7 receives the living room humidity from the living room humidity sensor 5a, and receives the living room temperature and the outdoor temperature from the living room temperature sensor 5b and the outdoor temperature sensor 6, respectively. The controller 7 may also be installed in the living room 10a as long as it is capable of controlling the air-conditioning system 40.

[0024] The controller 7 also has an interface for receiving input of information necessary to configure the air conditioning system 40. For example, the controller 7 receives a target humidity (hereinafter referred to as "target humidity") to be set in the air conditioning system 40. Below, a case will be described in which the air conditioning system 40 controls the room humidity based on the target humidity. Also, consider a case in which the humidity of the outdoor area 10b is lower than that of the room 10a so that the ventilation device 3 can more easily discharge moisture from the room 10a. For example, consider the case in winter when the outdoor air is drier than the room air.

[0025] The controller 7 determines whether to control the humidifier 1, the blower 2, and the ventilator 3 in the first humidification mode or the second humidification mode based on the target humidity, the room temperature, the room humidity, and the outdoor temperature.

[0026] Here, in the first humidification mode, the amount of moisture supplied to the living room 10a by the humidifier 1 is set to the amount of moisture supplied to the living room 10a by the ventilation device. This is a control mode in which humidification is performed under humidification conditions in which the amount of moisture discharged from the room 10a is equal to or greater than the amount of moisture discharged from the room 10a by the device 3. In the first humidification mode, the amount of moisture supplied to the room 10a is greater than the amount of moisture discharged from the room 10a, so the humidity in the room rises.

[0027] The second humidification mode is a control mode in which humidification is performed under humidification conditions in which the amount of moisture supplied to the room 10a by the humidifier 1 is less than the amount of moisture discharged from the room 10a by the ventilation device 3. In the second humidification mode, the amount of moisture discharged from the room 10a is greater, resulting in a decrease in room humidity. Here, in order to make the amount of moisture discharged from the room 10a greater than the amount of moisture supplied to the room 10a by the humidifier 1, the amount of moisture supplied by the humidifier 1 in the second humidification mode is less than in the first humidification mode. Alternatively, the amount of moisture supplied by the humidifier 1 may be maintained, and the amount of moisture discharged from the room 10a by the ventilation device 3 may be increased compared to the first humidification mode, thereby making the amount of moisture discharged from the room 10a greater than the amount of moisture supplied to the room 10a by the humidifier 1.

[0028] The interface function of the controller 7 may be provided in a communication device separate from the controller 7 and capable of communicating with the controller 7. The communication device is, for example, a mobile phone, a smartphone, or a tablet terminal (hereinafter referred to as a "terminal").

[0029] Next, the detailed configuration of the controller 7 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the controller 7. The controller 7 includes an operation unit 52, a display unit 54, a storage unit 56, and a control unit 50.

[0030] The operation unit 52 has the interface function described above. The operation unit 52 accepts operations from a user or the like, such as input of information related to the air conditioning system 40. The operation unit 52 outputs a signal corresponding to the accepted operation to the control unit 50. In FIG. 2, the operation unit 52 is provided in the controller, but this function may be provided in an external communication device (not shown). When the communication device accepts an operation from a user or the like, the communication device transmits a signal corresponding to the accepted operation to the controller 7. One example of information input by an operation from a user or the like is information on the target humidity of the living room 10a in the air conditioning system 40. Another example of information input by an operation from a user or the like is information on the thermal insulation performance of the window 8 in the house 30. In other words, it is information on the heat transmission coefficient of the window 8 (hereinafter referred to as "window heat transmission coefficient"). The window heat transmission coefficient is used to determine the control mode of the humidifier 1.

[0031] The display unit 54 is a display that visualizes the state of the controller 7. The display unit 54 displays, for example, the target humidity, the current control mode, and the like.

[0032] The memory unit 56 stores a data structure of a table of humidification amounts corresponding to the humidity difference between the target humidity of the humidifier 1 and the humidity in the room. The humidification amount table has a data structure in which, when the room humidity is lower than the target humidity, the greater the humidity difference between the target humidity and the room humidity, the greater the humidification amount. For example, if the target humidity is 50% when the temperature is constant, the humidification amount when the room humidity is 20% will be greater than the humidification amount when the room humidity is 30%. The memory unit 56 also stores information on window heat transmittance received from the user or the like via the operation unit 52.

[0033] The control unit 50 controls the air conditioning system 40 based on the target humidity, room temperature, room humidity, and outdoor temperature. The control unit 50 includes a humidity acquisition unit 58, a room target humidity acquisition unit 60, a temperature acquisition unit 62, a humidity difference calculation unit 64, a room dew point temperature calculation unit 66, a window surface temperature calculation unit 68, a reference value calculation unit 70, a humidification mode determination unit 72, a humidifier determination unit 74, an air blower determination unit 76, and a ventilation unit determination unit 78.

[0034] The humidity acquisition unit 58 is communicably connected to the room humidity sensor 5a and acquires the room humidity.

[0035] The room target humidity acquisition unit 60 acquires the target humidity of the room 10a. The target humidity is acquired from a value input by the user via the operation unit 52, for example.

[0036] The temperature acquisition unit 62 is communicably connected to the room temperature sensor 5b and the outdoor temperature sensor 6, and acquires the room temperature and the outdoor temperature.

[0037] The humidity difference calculation unit 64 calculates the humidity difference, which is the difference between the target humidity for the room 10a acquired by the room target humidity acquisition unit 60 and the room humidity acquired by the humidity acquisition unit 58.

[0038] The room dew-point temperature calculation unit 66 calculates the dew-point temperature of the room 10a (hereinafter referred to as the “room dew-point temperature”) based on the room humidity acquired by the humidity acquisition unit 58 and the room temperature acquired by the temperature acquisition unit 62.

[0039] The window surface temperature calculation unit 68 calculates the surface temperature of the window 8 on the side of the room 10a (hereinafter referred to as the "window surface temperature") based on the room temperature and outdoor temperature acquired by the temperature acquisition unit 62 and the window heat transmittance stored in the memory unit 56. Here, the room temperature sensor 5b is preferably disposed near the window 8 as shown in FIG. 1 to detect the temperature near the window 8 in the room 10a. This arrangement detects the room temperature near the window 8, making it easier to calculate the effect of the room temperature on the surface of the window 8 on the side of the room 10a and the effect of the outdoor temperature on the surface of the window 8 on the side of the room 10a based on the window heat transmittance. Note that the room temperature sensor 5b may be disposed near the window 8 but offset from the front of the window 8 to avoid the effect of direct sunlight. In this embodiment, the window surface temperature is calculated by the window surface temperature calculation unit 68, but this is not limiting. A temperature sensor may also be configured to directly detect the temperature of the surface of the window 8 on the side of the room 10a.

[0040] The reference value calculation unit 70 calculates a first reference value and a second reference value based on the window surface temperature calculated by the window surface temperature calculation unit 68. Here, the first reference value and the second reference value are numerical values ​​used to control the humidifier 1 and are numerical values ​​related to dew-point temperatures different from the room dew-point temperature. Specifically, the first reference value is a dew-point temperature set to a numerical value equal to or lower than the window surface temperature, and the second reference value is a dew-point temperature set to a numerical value even lower than the first reference value. When the dew-point temperature is equal to or higher than the first reference value, the humidifier 1 switches to the second humidification mode, and when the dew-point temperature is equal to or lower than the second reference value, the humidifier 1 switches to the first humidification mode. The first and second reference values ​​will be described in detail below.

[0041] The humidification mode determination unit 72 determines whether to perform control in the first humidification mode or the second humidification mode based on the room dew point temperature calculated by the room dew point temperature calculation unit 66 and the first reference value or the second reference value calculated by the reference value calculation unit 70. In other words, the humidification mode determination unit 72 selects one control mode from a plurality of control modes.

[0042] The humidifier determination unit 74 determines the humidification amount of the humidifier 1 based on the control mode determined by the humidification mode determination unit 72 and the humidity difference calculated by the humidity difference calculation unit 64, and transmits the determined amount to the humidifier 1. Here, the humidification amount of the humidifier 1 is determined by referring to a humidification amount table stored in the memory unit 56.

[0043] The air blower determination unit 76 determines the air volume of the air blower 2 based on the humidification amount determined by the humidifier determination unit 74 and transmits the determined air volume to the air blower 2 .

[0044] The ventilation device determination unit 78 determines the ventilation volume of the ventilation device 3 based on the control mode determined by the humidification mode determination unit 72 and transmits the determined volume to the ventilation device 3.

[0045] For example, in the first humidification mode, the humidification amount of the humidifier 1 and the ventilation amount of the ventilation device 3 are adjusted so that the room humidity approaches the target humidity under humidification conditions where the amount of moisture supplied to the room 10a by the humidifier 1 is equal to or greater than the amount of moisture discharged from the room 10a by the ventilation device 3. In the second humidification mode, in order to prevent condensation on the windows 8 and walls, the humidification amount of the humidifier 1 and the ventilation amount of the ventilation device 3 are adjusted under humidification conditions where the amount of moisture supplied to the room 10a by the humidifier 1 is less than the amount of moisture discharged from the room 10a by the ventilation device 3.

[0046] 6 and 7, a detailed description will be given of control for preventing condensation on the window 8 while continuing to operate the humidifier 1. Fig. 6 is a diagram including formulas for calculating the control reference values ​​(first reference value and second reference value). Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the transition of the room dew point temperature when control is performed to switch between the first humidification mode and the second humidification mode.

[0047] In Fig. 7, "Ts" is the window surface temperature calculated by the window surface temperature calculation unit 68. Furthermore, Ts-Δt1 (see formula (1) in Fig. 6) is the first reference value calculated by the reference value calculation unit 70, and Ts-Δt2 (see formula (2) in Fig. 6) is the second reference value calculated by the reference value calculation unit 70. Here, Δt1 and Δt2 are positive numbers, and Δt2 is set to a larger number than Δt1 (see formula (3) in Fig. 6). In this embodiment, as an example, "Δt1 = 1" and "Δt2 = 2" are used.

[0048] When the relationship between the room dew point temperature and the window surface temperature is such that "room dew point temperature ≧ window surface temperature," condensation occurs on the surface of the window 8. Therefore, to prevent condensation, the relationship between the room dew point temperature and the window surface temperature must be maintained such that "room dew point temperature < window surface temperature." Here, the room dew point temperature is determined by the room temperature and humidity. In other words, by controlling the room temperature or humidity, the room dew point temperature can be adjusted to be lower than the window surface temperature. In this embodiment, the room humidity, i.e., the room dew point temperature, can be controlled by controlling the humidification amount of the humidifier 1 and the ventilation amount of the ventilation device 3. Therefore, the humidification amount of the humidifier 1 and the ventilation amount of the ventilation device 3 are controlled so that the room dew point temperature is lower than the window surface temperature.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 7 , when the air conditioning system 40 is started up when the room dew point temperature is lower than the first reference value, the humidifier 1 and the ventilator 3 are controlled in the first humidification mode. As time passes and the room humidity continues to increase, the room dew point temperature exceeds the first reference value. When the room dew point temperature is equal to or lower than the first reference value, the air conditioning system 40 switches to the second humidification mode. Furthermore, as time passes and the room humidity continues to decrease, the room dew point temperature falls below the second reference value. When the room dew point temperature is equal to or higher than the second reference value, the air conditioning system 40 switches to the first humidification mode. Repeatedly switching between the first and second humidification modes in this manner prevents condensation on the window 8 while continuing to operate the humidifier 1. In other words, frequent on / off switching of the humidifier 1 can be suppressed, thereby suppressing increases in power consumption and preventing sudden increases and decreases in humidity in the living space.

[0050] Below, with reference to Figures 3, 4, 5 and 6, an overview of the processing in the controller 7 will be explained in detail in the order of (1) determining the first humidification mode and the second humidification mode, and (2) determining the humidification amount of the humidifier 1 and the ventilation amount of the ventilation device 3. Here, Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the procedure for determining the humidification amount and the ventilation amount by the controller 7. Also, Figure 4 is a diagram showing a flowchart for determining the humidification mode in Figure 3. Also, Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the procedure for determining the humidification amount and the ventilation amount in Figure 3. Also, Figure 6 is a diagram including formulas for calculating control reference values ​​(first reference value and second reference value). (1) Deciding on the first and second humidification modes The determination of the first humidification mode and the second humidification mode will be described with reference to Fig. 3. In this embodiment, the air conditioning system 40 determines the amount of moisture supplied to the room 10a based on the amount of moisture discharged from the room 10a. and a second humidification mode in which the humidification rate of the humidifier 1 and the ventilation rate of the ventilation device 3 are adjusted so that the amount of moisture supplied to the living room 10a is less than the amount of moisture discharged from the living room 10a. Below, the control by the control unit 50 to switch between the first humidification mode and the second humidification mode based on the first reference value and the second reference value will be described in detail.

[0051] First, the control unit 50 acquires the room humidity from the room humidity sensor 5a using the humidity acquisition unit 58. The control unit 50 also acquires the room temperature and the outdoor temperature from the room temperature sensor 5b and the outdoor temperature sensor 6, respectively, using the temperature acquisition unit 62. Furthermore, the control unit 50 acquires the target humidity input via the operation unit 52 using the room target humidity acquisition unit 60 (step S10).

[0052] Next, the control unit 50 calculates the humidity difference, which is the difference between the room humidity and the target humidity, in the humidity difference calculation unit 64 (step S12). Next, the control unit 50 calculates the room dew point temperature based on the room humidity and room temperature in the room dew point temperature calculation unit 66. Furthermore, the control unit 50 calculates the window surface temperature based on the room temperature, outdoor temperature, and window heat transmittance in the window surface temperature calculation unit 68 (Step S14). Next, the control unit 50 calculates a first reference value (see formula (1) in FIG. 6) and a second reference value (see formula (2) in FIG. 6) based on the window surface temperature in the reference value calculation unit 70 (step S16). Next, the control unit 50 determines whether to perform control in the first humidification mode or the second humidification mode based on the room dew point temperature and the first or second reference value calculated by the reference value calculation unit 70 using the humidification mode determination unit 72 (step S18). 4, the process for determining the humidification mode in step S18 will be described in detail. A first reference value and a second reference value are used to determine whether the humidification mode is the first or second. The first reference value is a temperature that is Δt1 (1°C in this embodiment) lower than the window surface temperature. When the room dew-point temperature exceeds the first reference value, the temperature difference between the room dew-point temperature and the window surface temperature is small, which means that condensation is likely to occur on the window surface. The second reference value is a temperature that is Δt2 (2°C in this embodiment) lower than the window surface temperature. When the room dew-point temperature falls below the second reference value, the temperature difference between the room dew-point temperature and the window surface temperature is large enough that the possibility of condensation on the window surface is low.

[0053] First, the humidification mode determination unit 72 determines whether or not the air conditioning system 40 is currently operating in the "first humidification mode" (step S18-1). In other words, it determines whether or not control is currently being performed to increase the room dew point temperature.

[0054] If the current operation is the "first humidification mode" (step S18-1: YES), it is determined whether the "first reference value<room dew-point temperature" (step S18-2). In other words, it is determined whether there is a high possibility of condensation on the window surface if the dew-point temperature continues to rise in the current operation.

[0055] If the relationship between the first reference value and the room dew point temperature is "first reference value < room dew point temperature" (step S18-2: YES), the possibility of condensation on the window surface is high, so the first humidification mode is switched to the second humidification mode (step S18-4).If the relationship between the first reference value and the room dew point temperature is not "first reference value < room dew point temperature" (step S18-2: NO), the possibility of condensation on the window surface is low, so the first humidification mode is continued (step S18-5).

[0056] If the current operation is the "second humidification mode" (step S18-1: NO), it is determined whether the "second reference value ≧ room dew point temperature" (step S18-3). Here, if the determination of switching the humidification mode is made only based on the first reference value, the first humidification mode and the second humidification mode Since the frequency of the mode switch is high, there is concern about hunting in the operations of the humidifying device 1 and the ventilation device 3, as well as hunting in the room humidity. Therefore, by providing a second reference value that is lower than the first reference value and determining whether the second reference value is exceeded in the second humidifying mode, it becomes possible to avoid this hunting. In other words, by performing the determination of switching the humidifying mode using the first reference value and the second reference value, which are two reference values with intentionally provided hysteresis, hunting can be eliminated, and the load on the device and the discomfort to the user can be suppressed.

[0057] When the relationship between the second reference value and the room dew point temperature is "second reference value ≥ room dew point temperature" (step S18-3: YES), since the possibility of condensation on the window surface is low, the mode is switched from the second humidifying mode to the first humidifying mode (step S18-5). Also, when the relationship between the second reference value and the room dew point temperature is not "second reference value ≥ room dew point temperature" (step S18-3: NO), since the possibility of condensation on the window surface is high, the second humidifying mode is continued (step S18-4). (2) Determination of the humidification amount of the humidifying device 1 and the ventilation amount of the ventilation device 3 The control unit 50 determines the humidification amount by the humidifying device 1 and the ventilation amount by the ventilation device 3 based on the control mode (the first humidifying mode or the second humidifying mode) determined by the humidifying mode determination unit 72 (step S20).

[0058] Here, referring to FIG. 5, the process of step S20 will be described in detail. Hereinafter, for the sake of explanation, the amount of moisture supplied to the living room 10a by the humidifying device 1 is denoted as A, and the amount of moisture discharged from the living room 10a by the ventilation device 3 is denoted as B. The first humidifying mode is a control mode in which A ≥ B, and the room humidity increases as the amount of moisture in the room air increases. In other words, in the first humidifying mode, it can be considered that the humidification of the room air is established. The second humidifying mode is a control mode in which A < B, and the room humidity decreases as the amount of moisture in the room air decreases. In other words, in the second humidifying mode, it can be considered that the dehumidification of the room air is established.

[0059] First, a case where the humidity of the room air is adjusted for humidification and dehumidification only by controlling the humidification amount of the humidifying device 1 will be described. First, it is determined whether it is the first humidification mode (step S20-1). In the case of the first humidification mode (step S20-1: YES), the humidifying device determination unit 74 determines the humidification amount of the humidifying device 1 based on the table in the storage unit 56 so that A ≥ B. In other words, humidification of the room air is performed by making the amount of moisture supplied to the room 10a by the humidifying device 1 larger than the amount of moisture discharged from the room 10a by the ventilation device 3. Also, in the case of the second humidification mode (step S20-1: NO), the humidifying device determination unit 74 determines the humidification amount of the humidifying device 1 so that A < B. In other words, dehumidification of the room air is performed by making the amount of moisture supplied to the room 10a by the humidifying device 1 smaller than the amount of moisture discharged from the room 10a by the ventilation device 3. With such control, it becomes possible to humidify and dehumidify the room air without stopping the operation of the humidifying device 1. In other words, frequent startup and shutdown of the humidifying device 1 can be suppressed, thereby suppressing an increase in power consumption and preventing a rapid increase or decrease in the humidity of the living space.

[0060] Also, it may be configured to humidify and dehumidify the room 10a only by controlling the ventilation amount of the ventilation device 3. In the case of the first humidification mode (step S20-1: YES), the humidifying device determination unit 74 determines the ventilation amount of the ventilation device 3 based on the table in the storage unit 56 so that A ≥ B. In other words, humidification of the room air is performed by making the amount of moisture discharged from the room 10a by the ventilation device 3 smaller than the amount of moisture supplied to the room 10a by the humidifying device 1. Also, in the case of the second humidification mode (step S20-1: NO), the humidifying device determination unit 74 determines the ventilation amount of the ventilation device 3 so that A < B. In other words, dehumidification of the room air is performed by making the amount of moisture discharged from the room 10a by the ventilation device 3 larger than the amount of moisture supplied to the room 10a by the humidifying device 1. With such control, in the second humidification mode when the humidification amount of the humidifying device 1 is at the lower limit value and A < B does not hold, by increasing the ventilation amount of the ventilation device 3, A < B can be made to hold.

[0061] Furthermore, humidification and dehumidification of the living room 10a may be performed while simultaneously controlling the humidification amount of the humidifying device 1 and the ventilation amount of the ventilation device 3. In the case of the first humidification mode (step S20-1: YES), the humidifying device determination unit 74 determines the humidification amount of the humidifying device 1 and the ventilation amount of the ventilation device 3 based on the table in the storage unit 56 so that A≥B. In the case of the second humidification mode (step S20-1: NO), the humidifying device determination unit 74 determines the humidification amount of the humidifying device 1 and the ventilation amount of the ventilation device 3 based on the table in the storage unit 56 so that A<B. With such control, for example, by installing a carbon dioxide sensor that additionally detects the concentration of carbon dioxide in the living room, it becomes possible to control the humidity of the living room while controlling the concentration such as the carbon dioxide concentration in the living room 10a by ventilation.

[0062] When performing humidity control of the living space by switching between the first humidification mode and the second humidification mode, only the humidification amount of the humidifying device 1 and the ventilation amount of the ventilation device 3 are adjusted. Therefore, compared with the case of stopping the humidifying device or operating the dehumidifying device, the transition of humidity becomes gentle. Therefore, with an air conditioning system having such a configuration, it becomes possible to prevent discomfort caused by a rapid increase or decrease in the humidity of the living space.

[0063] Also, by repeating the cycle of switching between the first humidification mode and the second humidification mode in this way, the relationship between the room dew point temperature and the window surface temperature is maintained as "room dew point temperature < window surface temperature". With such a control configuration, it becomes possible to prevent condensation from occurring on the surfaces of the walls and windows and to maintain a comfortable humidity environment in the living room 10a.

[0064] The subject of the device, system, or method of the present disclosure includes a computer. The computer executes a program to realize the functions of the subject of the device, system, or method of the present disclosure. The computer includes, as its main hardware component, a processor that operates according to the program. The processor may be of any type as long as it can realize the functions by executing the program. The processor may be composed of one or more electronic circuits, including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integration (LSI). The electronic circuits may be integrated into a single chip or may be provided on multiple chips. The multiple chips may be integrated into a single device or may be provided on multiple devices. The program is recorded on a non-transitory recording medium, such as a computer-readable ROM, optical disk, or hard disk drive. The program may be pre-stored on the recording medium or may be supplied to the recording medium via a wide-area communication network, including the Internet.

[0065] An outline of one aspect of the present disclosure is as follows. (Item 1) a humidifier 1 for humidifying the air in a living space having a window 8 facing the outdoors 10b; A ventilation device 3 that ventilates the living space; a controller 7 for controlling the humidifier 1 and the ventilation device 3; Equipped with The controller 7 a first humidification mode in which humidification is performed under humidification conditions in which the amount of moisture supplied to the living space by the humidifier 1 is equal to or greater than the amount of moisture discharged from the living space by the ventilation device 3; a second humidification mode in which humidification is performed under humidification conditions in which the amount of moisture supplied to the living space by the humidifier 1 is less than the amount of moisture discharged from the living space by the ventilation device 3; is switchable, The room dew point temperature of the air in the room space and the window surface temperature of the window 8 on the room space side and switching between the first humidification mode and the second humidification mode based on the temperature. Air conditioning system 40. (Item 2) The controller 7 switching from the first humidification mode to the second humidification mode when it is determined that the room dew-point temperature exceeds a first reference value defined based on the window surface temperature during operation of the humidifier 1 in the first humidification mode; 10. The air conditioning system of claim 1. (Item 3) The controller 7 When it is determined that the room dew-point temperature has fallen below a second reference value that is lower than the first reference value during operation of the humidifier 1 in the second humidification mode, the humidifier switches from the second humidification mode to the first humidification mode. 3. The air conditioning system of claim 2. (Item 4) The controller 7 controlling the humidifier 1 so that the amount of moisture supplied to the living space by the humidifier 1 operating in the second humidification mode is less than the amount of moisture supplied to the living space by the humidifier 1 operating in the first humidification mode; 4. The air conditioning system of claim 3. (Item 5) The controller 7 controlling the ventilation device 3 so that the amount of moisture discharged from the living space by the ventilation device 3 operating in the second humidification mode is greater than the amount of moisture discharged from the living space by the ventilation device 3 operating in the first humidification mode; 4. The air conditioning system of claim 3. (Item 6) The controller 7 The room dew point temperature is set based on room temperature information and room humidity information of the room space, The window surface temperature is set based on the room temperature information, the outdoor temperature information, and the heat insulation performance information of the window. 10. The air conditioning system of claim 1.

[0066] The present disclosure has been described above based on examples. These examples are merely illustrative, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible in the combination of each component or each treatment process, and that such modifications are also within the scope of the present disclosure. [Industrial Applicability]

[0067] The air conditioning system according to the present invention can be applied, for example, as a system for controlling air conditioning in a whole building. [Explanation of symbols]

[0068] 1 Humidifier 2. Blower 3. Ventilation system 4a First conveying air duct 4b Second transport air duct 4c Third conveying air duct 5a Room humidity sensor 5b Room temperature sensor 6 Outdoor Temperature Sensors 7 Controller 8. Windows 10a living room 10b Outdoor 20 Air conditioned room 22 Air conditioner 24 HEPA filters 30 Housing 40 Air Conditioning System 50 control section 52 Operation section 54 Display section 56 Memory section 58 Humidity acquisition section 60 Room target humidity acquisition unit 62 Temperature acquisition section 64 Humidity difference calculation section 66 Room dew point temperature calculation section 68 Window surface temperature calculation unit 70 Reference value calculation unit 72 Humidification mode determination unit 74 Humidification device determination section 76 Blower device determination unit 78 Ventilation Device Decision Unit

Claims

1. a humidifier for humidifying the air in a living space having a window facing the outdoors; a ventilation device for ventilating the living space; a controller for controlling the humidifier and the ventilation device; Equipped with The controller a first humidification mode in which humidification is performed under humidification conditions in which the amount of moisture supplied to the living space by the humidifier is equal to or greater than the amount of moisture discharged from the living space by the ventilation device; a second humidification mode in which humidification is performed under humidification conditions in which the amount of moisture supplied to the living space by the humidifier is less than the amount of moisture discharged from the living space by the ventilation device; is switchable, switching between the first humidification mode and the second humidification mode based on a room dew point temperature of the air in the room space and a window surface temperature of the window on the room space side; Air conditioning system.

2. The controller switching from the first humidification mode to the second humidification mode when it is determined that the room dew-point temperature has exceeded a first reference value defined based on the window surface temperature during operation of the humidifier in the first humidification mode; The air conditioning system of claim 1 .

3. The controller switching from the second humidification mode to the first humidification mode when it is determined that the room dew-point temperature has fallen below a second reference value that is lower than the first reference value during operation of the humidifier in the second humidification mode; 3. The air conditioning system of claim 2.

4. The controller controlling the humidifier so that an amount of moisture supplied to the living space by the humidifier operating in the second humidification mode is less than an amount of moisture supplied to the living space by the humidifier operating in the first humidification mode; 4. The air conditioning system of claim 3.

5. The controller controlling the ventilation device so that an amount of moisture discharged from the living space by the ventilation device operating in the second humidification mode is greater than an amount of moisture discharged from the living space by the ventilation device operating in the first humidification mode; 4. The air conditioning system of claim 3.

6. The controller The room dew point temperature is set based on room temperature information and room humidity information of the room space, The window surface temperature is set based on the room temperature information, the outdoor temperature information, and the heat insulation performance information of the window. The air conditioning system of claim 1 .

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