Air conditioning system and program

Abstract

This disclosure provides an air conditioning system that can alleviate the anxiety that users may have when the air conditioning capacity of an air conditioner is unable to keep up with changes in the heat load of the target space. [Solution] The air conditioning system in this disclosure includes a notification unit that, when the state of the air conditioner that air-conditions the target space is in a transient state in which the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner cannot keep up with the changes in the heat load of the target space, notifies the target space of anxiety reduction information, which is information that can alleviate the anxiety that a user may have as a result of the air conditioner being in the transient state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioning system and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for determining that the state of an air conditioner with a large change in the operating state of the air conditioner is a transient state.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides an air conditioning system and a program that can reduce the anxiety that a user may have due to the inability of the air conditioning capacity of an air conditioner to follow changes in the heat load of a target space.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The air conditioning system according to the present disclosure includes a notification unit that notifies the target space of anxiety reduction information, which is information that can reduce the anxiety that a user may have due to the air conditioner being in a transient state when the state of the air conditioner that conditions the target space is a transient state in which the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner cannot follow changes in the heat load of the target space.

[0006] Further, the program according to the present disclosure causes a processor to function as a notification unit that notifies the target space of anxiety reduction information, which is information that can reduce the anxiety that a user may have due to the air conditioner being in a transient state when the state of the air conditioner that conditions the target space is a transient state in which the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner cannot follow changes in the heat load of the target space.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] The air conditioning system and program described in this disclosure allow the user of the air conditioner to understand information that alleviates anxiety when the air conditioner's cooling capacity is not keeping up with changes in the heat load of the target space. Therefore, it is possible to alleviate the anxiety that the user may feel when the air conditioner's cooling capacity is not keeping up with changes in the heat load of the target space. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning system in Embodiment 1 [Figure 2] This figure shows the configuration of the air conditioning setting device, air conditioner, and remote controller in Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] A diagram illustrating an example of setting the target air conditioning capacity in Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the time-dependent changes in the spatial temperature and heat load of the target space, as well as the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner, in Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] A diagram illustrating the transient period in Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] Flowchart showing the operation of the air conditioning setting device in Embodiment 1 [Figure 7] A flowchart illustrating the operation of the air conditioning setting device during the processing related to the transient state in Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] A flowchart illustrating the operation of the air conditioning setting device during the processing related to the transient state in Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] A diagram showing an example of notification by the notification unit in Embodiment 1. [Figure 10] A diagram showing an example of notification by the notification unit in Embodiment 1. [Figure 11] A diagram showing an example of notification by the notification unit in Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] A diagram showing an example of notification by the notification unit in Embodiment 1. [Figure 13]This figure shows an example of notification by the notification unit in another embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] (Knowledge and other information that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time the inventors conceived of this disclosure, there was a technology, as described in Patent Document 1, that could determine whether or not an air conditioner was experiencing significant changes in its operating state. However, in recent years, technologies have been considered to make the air conditioner's cooling capacity follow the heat load of the target space. In these technologies being considered in recent years, an example of a state in which the air conditioner's operating state is experiencing significant changes is a state in which the air conditioner's cooling capacity cannot keep up with the heat load of the target space. However, the inventors discovered that in this state, the air conditioner user may feel anxious about things like whether the air conditioner is able to cope with the uncomfortable room temperature, how much longer it will take for the room temperature to return to a comfortable range, or how much longer it will take for the transient state to resolve. The subject matter of this disclosure was established to solve this problem. Therefore, this disclosure provides an air conditioning system and program that can alleviate the anxiety that users may have when the air conditioning capacity of an air conditioner is unable to keep up with changes in the heat load of the target space.

[0010] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, some unnecessarily detailed explanations may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. The attached drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0011] (Embodiment 1) [1-1. Structure] [1-1-1. Air Conditioning System Configuration] Figure 1 shows the configuration of the air conditioning system 1 in Embodiment 1. The air conditioning system 1 is a system that air - conditions the target space S, which is the air - conditioned space provided inside the building H. The target space S is, for example, a room provided inside the building H. Hereinafter, the outside of the building H is referred to as the outdoors.

[0012] The air conditioning system 1 includes an air - conditioning setting device 2, an air conditioner 3 that air - conditions the target space S according to instructions from the air - conditioning setting device 2, a communication relay device 4, a remote controller 5 which is a terminal device operated by the user P, and an indoor sensor 6.

[0013] The communication relay device 4 includes a transceiver, relays communication between each device arranged in the target space S, and also relays communication between each of the above - mentioned devices and an external device connected to the communication network NW including the air - conditioning setting device 2. The communication network NW can be composed of a public switched telephone network, a dedicated line, or other communication circuits. The communication network NW may be, for example, a network constituting the Internet. The communication relay device 4 is, for example, a WLAN router that has both the function of an access point for constructing a wireless LAN and the function of a router for communicably connecting the above - mentioned devices and an external device connected to the communication network NW.

[0014] The indoor sensor 6 is a temperature sensor that measures the space temperature Tc, which is the temperature inside the target space S. The indoor sensor 6 is communicably connected to other devices via the communication relay device 4. Note that the indoor sensor 6 may be a temperature - humidity sensor that measures the humidity inside the target space S.

[0015] The air conditioner 3 includes an indoor unit 3A arranged in the target space S and an outdoor unit 3B arranged outdoors. The indoor unit 3A communicates directly with the remote controller 5 and also communicates with other devices via the communication relay device 4.

[0016] The outdoor unit 3B includes, for example, a compressor 301 that compresses refrigerant and a compressor motor 302 which is a three - phase motor for driving the compressor 301. Note that the air conditioner 3 is not limited to those having a compressor 301 and may operate on any principle capable of cooling and / or heating the target space.

[0017] The indoor unit 3A receives instructions from the remote controller 5 operated by user P and transmits information related to the air conditioning operation to the remote controller 5. The indoor unit 3A also controls the operation of the air conditioner 3 according to the instructions from the remote controller 5 and the instructions received from the air conditioning setting device 2. The indoor unit 3A also transmits operating information of the air conditioner 3 to the air conditioning setting device 2.

[0018] The instructions that the indoor unit 3A receives from the remote controller 5 may include instructions to start and end the air conditioning operation, instructions to determine which air conditioning mode (cooling mode, heating mode, or dehumidification mode) to use, and instructions for the set temperature Tt of the air conditioner 3.

[0019] The information transmitted by the indoor unit 3A to the remote controller 5 may include, for example, information on the ambient temperature Tc acquired by the indoor unit 3A from the indoor sensor 6, information on the current operating mode of the air conditioner 3, and information received by the indoor unit 3A from the air conditioning setting device 2.

[0020] The operating information of the air conditioner 3 that the indoor unit 3A transmits to the air conditioning setting device 2 includes the target evaporation temperature, the target condensation temperature, the airflow rate of the air blown out by the indoor unit 3A, the degree of superheating, and the degree of supercooling.

[0021] The remote controller 5 is a terminal from which user P gives instructions to the air conditioner 3 and obtains information about the air conditioner 3. Details of the remote controller 5 will be described later, but the remote controller 5 is equipped with a display 51 and an operation panel 52. The remote controller 5 obtains the operating mode and set temperature Tt of the air conditioner 3 from user P via the operation panel 52 and transmits it to the indoor unit 3A. The remote controller 5 also displays the information received from the indoor unit 3A on the display 51.

[0022] A ventilation device 7 may be installed in the target space S to supply air to the target space S. The ventilation device 7 communicates with other devices via a communication relay device 4. The ventilation device 7 may provide information on whether the ventilation operation is on or off and information on the ventilation volume (e.g., the amount of air supplied) to other devices via the communication relay device 4. The ventilation device 7 may also measure its power consumption and provide information on the measured power consumption to other devices via the communication relay device 4.

[0023] An outdoor sensor 8 is installed on the exterior wall of building H to measure the outside air temperature. The outdoor sensor 8 may also be a sensor that further measures the humidity of the outside air. The outdoor sensor 8 is connected to other devices via a communication relay device 4 so as to be able to communicate with them.

[0024] The target space S can be illuminated by the lighting device 9 and natural light entering through a window WD provided in the target space S. The lighting device 9 can provide information on the on / off status of the lighting and information on power consumption to other devices via the communication relay device 4.

[0025] A refrigerator 10, a television 11, and a personal computer 12 may be placed in the target space S. The refrigerator 10, television 11, and personal computer 12 are each configured to provide on / off information and power consumption information to other devices via the communication relay device 4. Here, the refrigerator 10, television 11, and personal computer 12 are examples of electrical equipment that may be placed in the target space S. The target space S is not limited to the refrigerator 10, television 11, and personal computer 12; any electrical equipment may be placed there.

[0026] The target space S is equipped with an entrance door DR for user P to enter and exit the target space S. A motion sensor 13 is provided at the top of the door DR to detect user P entering or exiting through the door DR. The motion sensor 13 detects user P entering the target space S and user P leaving the target space S, and can provide the detected information to other devices via the communication relay device 4.

[0027] [1-1-2. Configuration of the air conditioning setting device] Next, we will explain the configuration of the air conditioning setting device 2. Figure 2 shows the configuration of the air conditioning setting device 2, the air conditioner 3, and the remote controller 5.

[0028] The air conditioning setting device 2 comprises a first processor 20, a first memory 21, and a first communication device 22.

[0029] The first processor 20 is a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processor Unit).

[0030] The first memory 21 is a memory that stores programs and data. The first memory 21 stores the first program 211 and data to be processed by the first processor 20. The first memory 21 has a non-volatile storage area. The first memory 21 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute the work area of ​​the first processor 20. The first memory 21 is composed of, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0031] The first communication device 22 is a transceiver for the first processor 20 to communicate via the communication network NW. The first processor 20 communicates with each device installed in the building H and the target space S, including the indoor unit 3A, via the communication network NW and the communication relay device 4 using the first communication device 22.

[0032] The first processor 20 functions as an information acquisition unit 201, a first estimation unit 202, a setting unit 203, a second estimation unit 204, a determination unit 205, a time estimate calculation unit 206, and an information transmission unit 207 by reading and executing the first program 211 stored in the first memory 21. The first estimation unit 202 is an example of an "estimation unit".

[0033] [1-1-2-1. Information acquisition department] The information acquisition unit 201 acquires various setting information from the indoor unit 3A, which is set by the user P operating the remote controller 5. As will be described later, each time the indoor unit 3A receives any setting information from the remote controller 5, it transmits the received setting information to the air conditioning setting device 2. The above setting information may include the set temperature Tt for the ambient temperature Tc of the target space S, and the specification of the air conditioning mode (cooling mode, heating mode, or dehumidification mode).

[0034] The information acquisition unit 201 also acquires various types of information from the equipment and sensors installed in the building H and the target space S. Specifically, the information acquisition unit 201 repeatedly acquires the ambient temperature Tc of the target space S from the indoor sensor 6 at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes). The information acquisition unit 201 also acquires information on whether the ventilation operation is on or off from the ventilation device 7, and repeatedly acquires information on the ventilation volume (for example, the amount of air supplied) after the ventilation operation is turned on at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes). The information acquisition unit 201 also repeatedly acquires the outside air temperature from the outdoor sensor 8 at predetermined time intervals. The information acquisition unit 201 also acquires information on whether the operation is on or off from the refrigerator 10, television 11, and personal computer 12 installed in the target space S, and repeatedly acquires information on the power consumption after the operation is turned on at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes). The information acquisition unit 201 further receives information from the human presence sensor 13 regarding the entry of user P into the target space S and the exit of user P from the target space, and calculates the number of user P in the target space S.

[0035] The information acquisition unit 201 repeatedly acquires operating information from the indoor unit 3A at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes).

[0036] [1-1-2-2. 1st estimation part] The first estimation unit 202 repeatedly estimates the heat load Qr of the target space S at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes) based on various information acquired by the information acquisition unit 201. Here, the heat load Qr of the target space S refers to the amount of heat per unit of time (in kcal / h or kW / h) that should be supplied to or removed from the target space S in order to maintain the spatial temperature Tc of the target space S at its current value. Furthermore, the heat load Qr when heat is supplied to the target space S is called the heating load, and the heat load Qr when heat is removed from the target space S is called the cooling load. In this embodiment, the heat load Qr, which is the cooling load, is represented as a positive number, and the heat load Qr, which is the heating load, is represented as a negative number.

[0037] In estimating the thermal load Qr, the first estimation unit 202 can handle one or more of the following as factors of the thermal load Qr: for example, the outside air load, the lighting load, the equipment load, and the human body load.

[0038] The outside air load is the load generated by heat exchange between the target space S and the outside air. Outside air is introduced into the target space S by the ventilation device 7. Based on the information acquired by the information acquisition unit 201, the first estimation unit 202 can calculate the heat load required to eliminate fluctuations in the space temperature Tc that may occur due to the exchange between the air inside the target space S and the outside air, as the outside air load. In addition to the outside air introduced by the ventilation device 7, the first estimation unit 202 may also add the load due to natural ventilation (such as drafts) that occurs depending on the airtightness of the target space S to the outside air load. The amount of natural ventilation per hour in the target space S can be measured in advance and stored in the first memory 21.

[0039] The lighting load is the amount of heat generated in the target space S by the lighting device 9 installed in the target space S. The first estimation unit 202 calculates the lighting load by multiplying the current power consumption of the lighting device 9, which is acquired by the information acquisition unit 201, by the heat loss of the lighting device 9 (the amount of heat generated in the target space S per unit of power consumption).

[0040] The equipment load is the amount of heat generated in the target space S by electrical equipment other than the lighting device 9 placed within the target space S. In the example shown in Figure 1, the electrical equipment is a refrigerator 10, a television 11, and a personal computer 12. The first estimation unit 202 calculates the equipment load generated by each of the refrigerator 10, television 11, and personal computer 12 by multiplying the current power consumption of each of the refrigerator 10, television 11, and personal computer 12, which is acquired by the information acquisition unit 201, by the heat loss of each of the refrigerator 10, television 11, and personal computer 12 (the amount of heat generated in the target space S per unit of power consumption). The sum of these calculated equipment loads is then taken as the equipment load in the target space S.

[0041] The human body load can be calculated as the heat load required to eliminate fluctuations in the ambient temperature tc caused by the amount of heat generated or absorbed by the human body of user P present in the target space S. For example, the first estimation unit 202 calculates the human body load based on the number of users P in the target space S calculated by the first estimation unit 202, and predetermined latent heat and sensible heat per person.

[0042] The first estimation unit 202 calculates the current outside air load, lighting load, equipment load, and human body load at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes), and estimates the sum of these loads as the heat load Qr of the target space S.

[0043] The above-mentioned outside air load, lighting load, equipment load, and human body load are just examples of loads that can be factors in the heat load Qr, and the first estimation unit 202 may include loads other than the outside air load, lighting load, equipment load, and human body load in the heat load Qr when estimating the heat load Qr. For example, the first estimation unit 202 may include the heat transfer load, which is the amount of heat exchanged between the target space S and the outside air via walls, ceilings, etc. that separate the target space S, as a load other than the outside air load, lighting load, equipment load, and human body load, in the estimation of the heat load Qr. The heat transfer load is calculated, for example, by multiplying the difference between the spatial temperature Tc of the target space S and the outside air temperature acquired by the information acquisition unit 201 by the area of ​​the walls and ceiling of the target space S and the heat transfer coefficient of the walls and ceiling of the target space S (an index representing the ability of materials and structures to transfer heat). The area of ​​the walls and ceiling of the target space S and the heat transfer coefficient of the walls and ceiling are pre-prepared values.

[0044] [1-1-2-3. Settings Section] The setting unit 203 sets the target air conditioning capacity W, which is the target value of the air conditioning capacity that the air conditioner 3 should achieve in the air conditioning operation of the target space S. The target air conditioning capacity W set in the setting unit 203 is transmitted to the indoor unit 3A. As a result, the indoor unit 3A is instructed to achieve the target air conditioning capacity W.

[0045] Specifically, the setting unit 203 acquires the current ambient temperature Tc of the target space S from the information acquisition unit 201 and the estimated heat load Qr from the first estimation unit 202 at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes). Then, based on the acquired current ambient temperature Tc and heat load Qr, the setting unit 203 sets the target air conditioning capacity W at the predetermined time intervals.

[0046] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the setting operation of the target air conditioning capacity W in the setting unit 203.

[0047] The setting unit 203 determines the target air conditioning capacity W based on the heat load Qr, according to the range of the temperature difference ΔT, which is the value obtained by subtracting the set temperature Tt from the ambient temperature Tc. The range of temperature difference ΔT is divided into, for example, a comfort range Rm, a first adjustment range R1, and a second adjustment range R2.

[0048] The comfort range Rm is the range in which the user P feels comfortable relative to the set temperature Tt, and is the range of the temperature difference ΔT that should be targeted in the air conditioning operation. In this embodiment, the comfort range Rm with respect to the temperature difference ΔT is defined as a range that is less than or equal to a predetermined first threshold Th1, and greater than or equal to a predetermined second threshold Th2 that is smaller than the first threshold Th1. That is, in this embodiment, the comfort range Rm is defined as a range with the first threshold Th1 and the second threshold Th2 as the upper and lower limits, respectively.

[0049] In this embodiment, for example, the first threshold Th1 and the second threshold Th2 are positive and negative numbers, respectively. That is, the comfort range Rm is a range of values ​​with width (Th1 + |Th2|) that includes ΔT = 0 (the state in which the ambient temperature Tc matches the set temperature Tt). As an example, Th1 is 0.5℃ and Th2 is -0.5℃.

[0050] The first adjustment range R1 is the range that exceeds the first threshold Th1, which is the upper limit of the comfort range Rm. The second adjustment range R2 is the range that is below the second threshold Th2, which is the lower limit of the comfort range Rm.

[0051] The setting unit 203 determines the target air conditioning capacity W according to the range of the temperature difference ΔT as follows: First, when the temperature difference ΔT is within the comfortable range Rm, the setting unit 203 sets the heat load Qr estimated by the first estimation unit 202 as the target air conditioning capacity W. That is, the setting unit 203 sets "W = Qr".

[0052] As a result, in the air conditioning system 1, when the temperature difference, which is the difference between the ambient temperature Tc and the set temperature Tt, is within the comfortable range Rm, the air conditioner 3 is controlled by the indoor unit 3A (described later) to follow the heat load Qr of the target space S and maintain the same air conditioning capacity. Therefore, when maintaining the ambient temperature Tc at the set temperature Tt, it is possible to avoid insufficient or excessive capacity of the air conditioner 3 and reduce the frequency of turning the air conditioning on and off, thereby suppressing an increase in the power consumption of the air conditioner 3. In addition, since the frequency of turning the air conditioning on and off is reduced, the repeated rise and fall of ambient temperature Tc associated with turning the air conditioning on and off is suppressed, and the comfort of the target space S may be improved.

[0053] Furthermore, when the temperature difference ΔT is within the first adjustment range R1 or the second adjustment range R2, the setting unit 203 sets the target air conditioning capacity W as a value obtained by adding or subtracting an adjustment amount determined according to the temperature difference ΔT to the heat load Qr, so that the temperature difference ΔT changes toward the comfort range Rm. As a result, when the temperature difference ΔT is not within the comfortable range Rm, the target air conditioning capacity W is adjusted around the heat load Qr, so the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 3 can be changed so that the ambient temperature Tc smoothly approaches the set temperature Tt.

[0054] Specifically, when the temperature difference ΔT is in the first adjustment range R1, which exceeds the first threshold Th1, which is the upper limit of the comfort range Rm, the setting unit 203 determines the target air conditioning capacity W as the heat load Qr plus the adjustment amount α. That is, the setting unit 203 sets W = Qr + α.

[0055] Furthermore, when the temperature is within the first adjustment range R1, which exceeds the first threshold Th1, the upper limit of the comfort range Rm, the setting unit 203 determines the target air conditioning capacity W as the value obtained by subtracting the adjustment amount β from the heat load Qr. That is, the setting unit 203 sets W = Qr - β.

[0056] As described above, in this embodiment, the heat load Qr in the case of a cooling load is represented as a positive number, and the heat load Qr in the case of a heating load is represented as a negative number. Therefore, when the heat load Qr is a cooling load and the air conditioner 3 performs a cooling operation, the adjustment amounts α and β are positive numbers, and when the heat load Qr is a heating load and the air conditioner performs a heating operation, the adjustment amounts α and β are negative numbers. Furthermore, the absolute values ​​of the adjustment amounts α and β may be the same or different depending on whether the heat load Qr is a cooling load or a heating load.

[0057] Figure 4 shows an example of the time variation of the ambient temperature Tc and heat load Qr of the target space S, as well as the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3, when the heat load Qr is a cooling load and the air conditioner 3 is operating in cooling mode. The information acquisition unit 201 of the air conditioning setting device 2 samples the ambient temperature Tc at predetermined time intervals, and the first estimation unit 202 calculates the heat load Qr at predetermined time intervals. The setting unit 203 sets the target air conditioning capacity W at predetermined time intervals and transmits the set target air conditioning capacity W to the indoor unit 3A of the air conditioner 3 via the first communication device 22. The air conditioner 3 operates to achieve the received target air conditioning capacity W, and as a result operates at the air conditioning capacity Wr. In Figure 4, it is assumed that the heat load Qr calculated by the first estimation unit 202 is a value that appropriately represents the actual heat load Qr.

[0058] In Figure 4(A), the vertical axis represents ambient temperature Tc, and the horizontal axis represents time. Graph GF1 in Figure 4(A) shows the time variation of ambient temperature Tc. The set temperature Tt is assumed to remain unchanged within the time range shown in Figure 4. Therefore, the temperature difference ΔT also changes in a similar manner to graph GF1. Figure 4(A) shows, on the right side, the ranges corresponding to the first adjustment range R1, the comfort range Rm, and the second adjustment range R2 in terms of temperature difference ΔT.

[0059] In Figure 4(B), the vertical axis shows the values ​​of the heat load Qr and the air conditioning capacity Wr, and the horizontal axis represents the same time as the horizontal axis in Figure 4(A). Furthermore, graphs GF2 and GF3 in Figure 4(B) show the time changes of the heat load Qr and the air conditioning capacity Wr, respectively.

[0060] In the example shown in Figure 4(A), at time T1, the ambient temperature Tc is greater than "set temperature Tt + first threshold Th1" and falls within the first adjustment range R1 of the temperature difference ΔT. Therefore, the setting unit 203 sets the target air conditioning capacity W to the value obtained by adding the adjustment amount α to the heat load Qr. As a result, as shown in Figure 4(B), the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 at time T1 is greater than the heat load Qr by the adjustment amount α. That is, "Wr = Qr + α". As a result, the target space S loses more heat than the heat load Qr, and as shown in Figure 4(A), the ambient temperature Tc decreases over time after time T1.

[0061] The state "Wr=Qr+α" continues until, at time T2, the ambient temperature Tc falls within the temperature range corresponding to the comfortable range Rm of ΔT. At time T2, when the ambient temperature Tc reaches the temperature range corresponding to the comfort range Rm, the setting unit 203 sets the target air conditioning capacity W to the same value as the heat load Qr. As a result, as shown in Figure 4(B), after a slight delay from time T2, the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 becomes the same as the heat load Qr. That is, "Wr = Qr". As a result, the target space S is cooled with the same air conditioning capacity Wr as the heat load Qr required to maintain the ambient temperature Tc at its current value, and the ambient temperature Tc is maintained at a value close to the set temperature Tt within the temperature range corresponding to the comfort range Rm from time T2 onward.

[0062] [1-1-2-4.Second estimation part] The second estimation unit 204 estimates the current air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 based on various information acquired by the information acquisition unit 201 at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes). For example, the second estimation unit 204 estimates the current air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 based on the ambient temperature Tc, target evaporation temperature or target condensation temperature, airflow rate, superheating degree or supercooling degree acquired by the information acquisition unit 201.

[0063] [1-1-2-5. Judgment section] The determination unit 205 performs various determinations related to transient states. A transient state refers to a state in which the air conditioner 3's air conditioning capacity Wr is unable to keep up with the change in the heat load Qr of the target space S. More specifically, a transient state refers to a state in the air conditioner 3 in which the period during which the heat load Qr of the target space S and the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 match occurs less than a predetermined number of times within a predetermined period. Furthermore, a transient state refers to a state in the air conditioner 3 that begins when the difference between the heat load Qr of the target space S and the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 exceeds a predetermined threshold for a predetermined period of time or longer, and ends when the difference between the heat load Qr of the target space S and the air conditioning capacity Wr of the air conditioner 3 remains below a predetermined threshold for a predetermined period of time or longer.

[0064] The period during which the air conditioner 3 is in a transient state includes the first period TP1, the second period TP2, the third period TP3, and the fourth period TP4. Hereinafter, the period during which the air conditioner 3 is in a transient state will be referred to as the transient period TP, denoted by the symbol "TP". During the transient period TP, the first period TP1, the second period TP2, the third period TP3, and the fourth period TP4 occur in the order described above.

[0065] Referring to Figure 5, the transient period TP will be described in detail, along with an explanation of the determination unit 205. Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the transient period TP.

[0066] In Figure 5(A), the vertical axis represents ambient temperature Tc, and the horizontal axis represents time. Graph GF4 in Figure 5(A) shows the time variation of ambient temperature Tc. The set temperature Tt is assumed to remain unchanged within the time range shown in Figure 5. Therefore, the temperature difference ΔT also changes in a similar manner to graph GF4. Figure 5(A) shows, on the right side, the ranges corresponding to the first adjustment range R1, the comfort range Rm, and the second adjustment range R2 in terms of temperature difference ΔT.

[0067] In Figure 5(B), the vertical axis shows the values ​​of the heat load Qr and the air conditioning capacity Wr, and the horizontal axis shows the same time as the horizontal axis in Figure 4(A). Graph GF5 in Figure 5(B) shows the time change of the target air conditioning capacity W. The line type for graph GF5 is a dashed line. Graph GF6 in Figure 5(B) shows the time change of the air conditioning capacity Wr of air conditioner 3. The line type for graph GF6 is a dashed line. Graph GF7 in Figure 5(C) shows the time change of the heat load Qr. The line type for graph GF7 is a solid line.

[0068] In Figure 5, the transient state period TP is the period from time TA to time TE. Furthermore, in Figure 5, the first period TP1 of the transient state period TP is the period from time TA to time TB. Furthermore, in Figure 5, the second period TP2 of the transient state period TP is the period from time TB to time TC. Furthermore, in Figure 5, the third period TP3 of the transient state period TP is the period from time TC to time TD. Furthermore, in Figure 5, the fourth period TP4 of the transient state period TP is the period from time TD to time TE.

[0069] The determination unit 205 determines that a transient state has begun, that is, that the first period has begun, when the following first condition is met.

[0070] Condition 1: The period during which equation (1) is satisfied continues for a predetermined period of N1 or longer. Target air conditioning capacity W - air conditioning capacity Wr≧η1 (1) In equation (1), η1 is a predetermined threshold value.

[0071] The determination unit 205 acquires the target air conditioning capacity W set by the setting unit 203 and the air conditioning capacity Wr estimated by the second estimation unit 204 at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes). It then substitutes these two acquired parameters into equation (1) and determines that a transient state has started if the period during which equation (1) is satisfied continues for a predetermined period N1 or longer.

[0072] Figure 5 illustrates the case where equation (1) begins to hold true from time TZ, and the first condition is met at time TA. Therefore, in the example shown in Figure 5, the determination unit 205 determines that the transient state has started at time TA.

[0073] When the determination unit 205 determines that a transient state has begun, it stores information indicating that the state of the air conditioner 3 is in a transient state in the first memory 21. Also, when the determination unit 205 determines that a transient state has begun, it stores information indicating that it is the first period TP1 in the first memory 21, associating it with the information indicating that it is in a transient state.

[0074] The determination unit 205 determines that the second period TP2 has started if the following second condition is met after the start of the first period TP1. Second condition: The period during which the ambient temperature Tc falls outside the comfortable range Rm continues for a specified period of N2 or longer. The second condition is the termination condition for the first period, TP1.

[0075] The determination unit 205 acquires the ambient temperature Tc from the information acquisition unit 201 at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes), determines whether the ambient temperature Tc has fallen outside the comfortable range Rm, and determines that the second period TP2 has started if the period during which the ambient temperature Tc is determined to be outside the comfortable range Rm continues for a predetermined period N2 or longer.

[0076] Figure 5 illustrates a case where the system begins to determine that the ambient temperature Tc falls outside the comfortable range Rm at time TY, and the second condition is met at time TB. Therefore, in the example shown in Figure 5, the determination unit 205 determines that the second period TP2 has started at time TB.

[0077] When the determination unit 205 determines that the second period TP2 has started, it stores information indicating that it is the second period TP2 in the first memory 21, in association with the information indicating that it is in a transient state, instead of the information indicating that it is the first period TP1.

[0078] The determination unit 205 determines that the third period TP3 has started if the following third condition is met after the start of the second period TP2. Furthermore, the third condition below is the termination condition for the second period, TP2.

[0079] Third condition: The period during which equation (2) is satisfied continues for a predetermined period of N3 or longer. Target air conditioning capacity W - air conditioning capacity Wr<η2 (2) In equation (2), η2 is a predetermined threshold value. Furthermore, in equation (2), the target air conditioning capacity W is the target value obtained by adding the adjustment amount α to the heat load Qr.

[0080] The determination unit 205 acquires the target air conditioning capacity W set by the setting unit 203 and the air conditioning capacity Wr estimated by the second estimation unit 204 at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes). Substitute these two acquired parameters into equation (2), and if the period during which equation (2) is satisfied continues for a predetermined period N3 or longer, it determines that the third period TP3 has started.

[0081] Figure 5 illustrates the case where equation (2) begins to hold true from time TX, and the third condition is met at time TC. Therefore, in the example of Figure 5, the determination unit 205 determines that the third period TP3 has started at time TC.

[0082] When the determination unit 205 determines that the third period TP3 has started, it stores information indicating that it is the third period TP3 in the first memory 21, associating it with information indicating that it is in a transient state, instead of the information indicating that it is the second period TP2.

[0083] When the third period TP3 begins, the determination unit 205 determines whether or not the fourth period TP4 has started. The determination unit 205 determines that the fourth period TP4 has started if the following fourth condition is met. Furthermore, the fourth condition is the termination condition for the third period, TP3.

[0084] Condition 4: The period during which the ambient temperature Tc remains within the comfortable range Rm continues for a specified period of N4 or longer.

[0085] The determination unit 205 acquires the ambient temperature Tc from the information acquisition unit 201 at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes), determines whether the ambient temperature Tc has returned to within the comfortable range Rm, and determines that the fourth period has started if the period during which the ambient temperature Tc has returned to within the comfortable range Rm continues for a predetermined period N4 or longer.

[0086] Figure 5 illustrates a case where the ambient temperature Tc returns to within the comfortable range Rm from time TW, and the fourth condition is met at time TD. Therefore, in the example of Figure 5, the determination unit 205 determines that the fourth period TP4 has started at time TD.

[0087] When the determination unit 205 determines that the fourth period TP4 has started, it stores information indicating that it is the fourth period TP4 in the first memory 21, associating it with the information indicating that it is in a transient state, instead of the information indicating that it is the third period TP3.

[0088] When the fourth period TP4 begins, the determination unit 205 determines whether the fourth period TP4 has ended, that is, whether the transient state has ended. The determination unit 205 determines that the fourth period TP4 has ended, that is, the transient state has ended, if the following fifth condition is met. Furthermore, the fifth condition is the termination condition for the fourth period, TP4.

[0089] Condition 5: The period during which equation (3) is satisfied continues for a specified period of N5 or more. Target air conditioning capacity W - air conditioning capacity Wr<η3...(3) In equation (3), η3 is a predetermined threshold value.

[0090] The determination unit 205 acquires the target air conditioning capacity W set by the setting unit 203 and the air conditioning capacity Wr estimated by the second estimation unit 204 at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes). Substitute these two acquired parameters into equation (3), and if the period during which equation (3) is satisfied continues for a predetermined period N5 or longer, it determines that the fourth period TP4 has ended.

[0091] Figure 5 illustrates the case where equation (3) begins to hold from time TV and the fifth condition is met at time TE. Therefore, in the example in Figure 5, the determination unit 205 determines that the fourth period TP4 has ended at time TE.

[0092] When the determination unit 205 determines that the fourth period TP4 has ended, it erases from the first memory 21 the information indicating that it is the fourth period TP4 and the information indicating that it is in a transient state.

[0093] [1-1-2-6. Estimated Time Calculation Section] The guideline time calculation unit 206 calculates the first guideline time until the air conditioning capacity Wr reaches the target air conditioning capacity W during the second period TP2. The guideline time calculation unit 206 acquires the target air conditioning capacity W set by the setting unit 203 and the air conditioning capacity Wr estimated by the second estimation unit 204 at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes), and calculates the first guideline time based on the two acquired parameters and equation (4).

[0094]

number

[0095] In equation (4), E2 represents the first target time. Also in equation (4), W represents the target air conditioning capacity W. Also in equation (4), Wr represents the air conditioning capacity Wr.

[0096] The estimated time calculation unit 206 calculates the degree of change in the difference between the target air conditioning capacity W and the air conditioning capacity Wr at predetermined time intervals, based on the difference between the target air conditioning capacity W and the air conditioning capacity Wr obtained this time, and the difference between the target air conditioning capacity W and the air conditioning capacity Wr obtained last time. Then, the estimated time calculation unit 206 substitutes the target air conditioning capacity W obtained this time into "W" in equation (4), substitutes the air conditioning capacity Wr obtained this time into "Wr" in equation (4), and substitutes the calculated degree of change into "dWr / dt - dW / dt" in equation (4) to calculate the first estimated time.

[0097] The guideline time calculation unit 206 calculates a second guideline time in the third period TP3 until the ambient temperature Tc returns to the comfortable range Rm. The guideline time calculation unit 206 obtains the ambient temperature Tc and the set temperature Tt from the information acquisition unit 201 at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes), and calculates the second guideline time based on the two acquired parameters and equation (5).

[0098]

number

[0099] In equation (5), E3 represents the second reference time. Also in equation (5), Tc represents the ambient temperature Tc. Also in equation (5), Tt represents the set temperature Tt. Also in equation (5), Th is Th1 in the case of cooling and Th2 in the case of heating.

[0100] The estimated time calculation unit 206 calculates the degree of change in ambient temperature Tc at a predetermined time interval based on the ambient temperature Tc acquired this time and the ambient temperature Tc acquired last time. Then, the estimated time calculation unit 206 substitutes the ambient temperature Tc acquired this time into "Tc" in equation (5), substitutes the set temperature Tt acquired this time into "Tt" in equation (5), substitutes Th1 or Th2 into "Th" in equation (5), and substitutes the calculated degree of change into "dTc / dt" in equation (5) to calculate the second estimated time.

[0101] The estimated time calculation unit 206 calculates the third estimated time until the transient state is resolved in the fourth period TP4. The estimated time calculation unit 206 calculates the third estimated time using the same calculation method as the first estimated time.

[0102] [1-1-2-7. Information Transmission Section] The information transmission unit 207 transmits information to the indoor unit 3A via the first communication device 22. The information transmitted by the information transmission unit 207 will be described later.

[0103] [1-1-3. Indoor Unit Configuration] Next, referring to Figure 2, the configuration of indoor unit 3A will be explained. The indoor unit 3A comprises an air conditioning control device 30, an indoor ventilation fan 31, and an indoor expansion valve 32.

[0104] The indoor ventilation fan 31 rotates according to the control of the air conditioning control device 30 and sends air to the heat exchanger of the indoor unit 3A. The indoor expansion valve 32 is a valve that adjusts the refrigerant flow rate to the heat exchanger of the indoor unit 3A. The opening degree of the indoor expansion valve 32 is adjusted according to the control of the air conditioning control device 30.

[0105] The air conditioning control device 30 operates the air conditioner 3 in one of the following air conditioning modes: cooling mode, heating mode, or dehumidification mode, according to instructions from the remote controller 5. The air conditioning control device 30 also operates the air conditioner 3 in one of the following operating modes: energy-saving mode or comfort mode, according to instructions from the remote controller 5. Furthermore, when the air conditioning control device 30 receives instructions from the remote controller 5, it transmits the received instructions to the air conditioning setting device 2.

[0106] In this embodiment, the air conditioning control device 30 controls the frequency of the three-phase AC power supplied to the compressor motor 302 of the outdoor unit 3B, and controls air conditioning-related mechanisms such as the indoor blower fan 31 and the indoor expansion valve 32, in order to achieve the target air conditioning capacity W received from the air conditioning setting device 2.

[0107] The air conditioning control device 30 includes a second processor 33, a second memory 34, and a second communication device 35.

[0108] The second processor 33 is a processor such as a CPU or MPU.

[0109] The second memory 34 is a memory that stores programs and data. The second memory 34 stores the second program 341 and data to be processed by the second processor 33. The second memory 34 has a non-volatile storage area. The second memory 34 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute the work area of ​​the second processor 33. The second memory 34 is composed of, for example, ROM or RAM.

[0110] The second communication device 35 includes a transceiver for the second processor 33 to communicate with the remote controller 5, and a transceiver for the second processor 33 to communicate with each device provided in the target space S and external devices on the communication network NW.

[0111] The second processor 33 functions as the air conditioning communication unit 331 and the control unit 332 by reading and executing the second program 341 stored in the second memory 34.

[0112] The air conditioning communication unit 331 receives instructions from the remote controller 5 via the second communication device 35 and transmits them to the control unit 332. The air conditioning communication unit 331 also receives the target air conditioning capacity W from the air conditioning setting device 2 and transmits it to the control unit 332. In addition, whenever the air conditioning communication unit 331 receives any instructions and setting information from the remote controller 5, it transmits the received instructions and setting information to the air conditioning setting device 2. The air conditioning communication unit 331 also transmits operation information to the air conditioning setting device 2. In addition, the air conditioning communication unit 331 forwards information received from the air conditioning setting device 2 to the remote controller 5.

[0113] The control unit 332 starts or stops the air conditioning operation of the air conditioner 3 according to instructions from the remote controller 5. Furthermore, the control unit 332 operates the air conditioner 3 in the air conditioning mode and operating mode instructed by the remote controller 5. Furthermore, the control unit 332 controls the frequency of the three-phase AC power supplied to the compressor motor of the outdoor unit 3B, and controls air conditioning-related mechanisms such as the indoor blower fan 31 and the indoor expansion valve 32, in order to achieve the target air conditioning capacity W received from the air conditioning setting device 2. The above frequency for achieving the target air conditioning capacity W is predetermined and stored in the second memory 34.

[0114] [1-1-4. Remote Controller] Next, referring to Figure 2, the configuration of the remote controller 5 will be described. The remote controller 5 comprises a terminal control device 50, a display 51, and an operation panel 52.

[0115] The display 51 displays various information in accordance with the control of the terminal control device 50. The control panel 52 is equipped with control elements such as operation keys and receives various instructions from the user P.

[0116] The terminal control device 50 is a device that controls each part of the remote controller 5, and comprises a third processor 53, a third memory 54, and a third communication device 55. The third processor 53 is an example of a "processor".

[0117] The third processor 53 is a processor such as a CPU or MPU.

[0118] The third memory 54 is a memory that stores programs and data. The third memory 54 stores the data processed by the third program 541 and the third processor 53. The third memory 53 has a non-volatile storage area. Alternatively, the third memory 53 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute the work area of ​​the third processor 53. The third memory 53 is composed of, for example, ROM or RAM. Program 541, the third program, is an example of a "program".

[0119] The third communication device 55 includes a transceiver for the third processor 53 to communicate with the indoor unit 3A.

[0120] The third processor 53 functions as a terminal communication unit 531 and a notification unit 532 by reading and executing the third program 541 stored in the third memory 54.

[0121] The terminal communication unit 531 transmits instructions to the indoor unit 3A via the third communication device 55. The terminal communication unit 531 also receives information from the indoor unit 3A and transmits the received information to the notification unit 532.

[0122] The notification unit 532 notifies various information via the display 51. The information notified by the notification unit 532 will be described later.

[0123] [1-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each part of the air conditioning system 1 will be explained. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the air conditioning setting device 2.

[0124] The operation shown in Figure 6 begins when the indoor unit 3A receives an instruction to start air conditioning operation from the remote controller 5, and is repeated at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 5 minutes). The repeated execution of the operation in Figure 6 ends when the indoor unit 3A receives an instruction to end air conditioning operation from the remote controller 5. The air conditioning setting device 2 receives the start and end instructions for air conditioning operation from the remote controller 5 via the indoor unit 3A.

[0125] The information acquisition unit 201 acquires various types of information (step S1). The information acquired in step S1 includes information necessary for estimating the heat load Qr by the first estimation unit 202, setting the target air conditioning capacity W by the setting unit 203, and estimating the air conditioning capacity Wr by the second estimation unit 204.

[0126] Next, the first estimation unit 202 estimates the thermal load Qr based on the information obtained in step S1 (step S2).

[0127] The setting unit 203 calculates the temperature difference ΔT from the ambient temperature Tc obtained in step S1 and the set temperature Tt (step S3).

[0128] Next, the setting unit 203 determines whether the temperature difference ΔT calculated in step S3 is less than or equal to the first threshold Th1 (step S4).

[0129] If the setting unit 203 determines that the temperature difference ΔT is less than or equal to the first threshold Th1 (step S4: YES), it determines whether the temperature difference ΔT calculated in step S3 is greater than or equal to the second threshold Th2 (step S5).

[0130] If the setting unit 203 determines that the temperature difference ΔT is greater than or equal to the second threshold Th2 (step S5: YES), that is, if the temperature difference ΔT is within the comfort range Rm, it sets the heat load Qr estimated by the first estimation unit 202 to the target air conditioning capacity W (step S6).

[0131] Returning to the explanation of step S4, if the setting unit 203 determines that the temperature difference ΔT exceeds the first threshold Th1 (step S4: NO), that is, if the temperature difference ΔT is within the first adjustment range R1, it sets the amount obtained by adding the adjustment amount α to the heat load Qr estimated by the first estimation unit 202 to the target air conditioning capacity W (step S7).

[0132] Returning to the explanation of step S5, if the setting unit 203 determines that the temperature difference ΔT is less than the second threshold Th2 (step S5: NO), that is, if the temperature difference ΔT is within the second adjustment range R2, it sets the amount obtained by subtracting the adjustment amount β from the heat load Qr estimated by the first estimation unit 202 to the target air conditioning capacity W (step S8).

[0133] Next, when the setting unit 203 performs any of the settings in steps S6, S7, or S8, it transmits the target air conditioning capacity W set in any of steps S6, S7, or S8 to the indoor unit 3A (step S9). As a result, the control unit 332 of the indoor unit 3A starts controlling its operation at the target air conditioning capacity W set by the setting unit 203.

[0134] Next, the second estimation unit 204 estimates the air conditioning capacity Wr based on the information obtained in step S1 (step S10).

[0135] Next, the first processor 20 performs processing related to the transient state (step S11).

[0136] Figures 7 and 8 are flowcharts showing the operation of the air conditioning setting device 2 during processing related to transient states.

[0137] In processing related to transient states, first, the determination unit 205 determines whether or not the state of the air conditioner 3 is in a transient state (step S111). If the determination unit 205 does not have information indicating a transient state stored in the first memory 21, it makes a negative determination in step S111. On the other hand, if the determination unit 205 has information indicating a transient state stored in the first memory 21, it makes an affirmative determination in step S111.

[0138] If the determination unit 205 determines that the state of the air conditioner 3 is not in a transient state (step S111: NO), it determines whether the first period TP1 has started, that is, whether a transient state has started or not (step S112). The determination unit 205 determines whether the first condition is met based on the target air conditioning capacity W set in any of steps S6, S7, or S8 and the air conditioning capacity Wr estimated in step S10. If the first condition is met, it makes a positive determination in step S112, and if the first condition is not met, it makes a negative determination in step S112.

[0139] If the determination unit 205 determines that a transient state has not started (step S112: NO), the first processor 20 terminates the processing related to the transient state.

[0140] On the other hand, if it is determined that a transient state has started (step S112: YES), the determination unit 205 stores information indicating that it is a transient state and information indicating that it is the first period TP1 in the first memory 21 (step S113).

[0141] Next, the information transmission unit 207 transmits the first notification request information to the indoor unit 3A (step S114). The first notification request information is information requesting notification of at least one of the following: that there has been a change in the heat load Qr, and that the ambient temperature Tc has fallen outside the comfortable range Rm.

[0142] The first notification request information transmitted by the information transmission unit 207 is forwarded to the remote controller 5 by the indoor unit 3A. When the remote controller 5 receives the first notification request information, the notification unit 532 of the remote controller 5 issues a notification as shown in Figure 9.

[0143] Figure 9 shows an example of a notification by the notification unit 532. The notification unit 532 notifies the user of at least one of the following by displaying the first notification screen G1 on the display 51: that there has been a change in the heat load Qr, and that the ambient temperature Tc has fallen outside the comfortable range Rm.

[0144] The first notification screen G1 shown in Figure 9 is, as an example, a screen that notifies the user that there has been a change in the heat load Qr and that the ambient temperature Tc will fall outside the comfortable range Rm. Therefore, the first notification screen G1 displays information J1 indicating that there has been a change in the heat load Qr and information J2 indicating that the ambient temperature Tc will fall outside the comfortable range Rm. In Figure 9, information J1 is the string "Heat load increased!" and information J2 is the string "Room temperature will soon exceed the comfortable range."

[0145] Returning to the flowchart in Figure 7, the determination unit 205 determines whether or not the second period TP2 has started (step S115). The determination unit 205 determines whether the second condition is met based on the ambient temperature Tc obtained in step S1. If the second condition is met, it makes a positive determination in step S115; if the second condition is not met, it makes a negative determination in step S115.

[0146] If the determination unit 205 determines that the second period TP2 has not started (step S115: NO), the first processor 20 terminates the processing related to the transient state.

[0147] On the other hand, if it is determined that the second period TP2 has started (step S115: YES), the determination unit 205 stores information indicating that it is the second period TP2 in the first memory 21 (step S116).

[0148] Next, the estimated time calculation unit 206 calculates the first estimated time based on the target air conditioning capacity W transmitted in step S9 and the air conditioning capacity Wr estimated in step S10 (step S117).

[0149] Next, the information transmission unit 207 transmits the second notification request information to the indoor unit 3A (step S118). The second notification request information is information requesting notification of anxiety reduction information FJ. Anxiety reduction information FJ is information that can alleviate the anxiety that user P may have due to the air conditioner 3 being in a transient state. The second notification request information is also information requesting notification of measures to resolve the transient state.

[0150] The second notification request information transmitted by the information transmission unit 207 is forwarded to the remote controller 5 by the indoor unit 3A. When the remote controller 5 receives the second notification request information, the notification unit 532 of the remote controller 5 issues a notification as shown in Figure 10.

[0151] Figure 10 shows an example of a notification by the notification unit 532. The notification unit 532 notifies the user of anxiety reduction information FJ and measures to resolve the transient state by displaying the second notification screen G2 on the display 51.

[0152] The second notification screen G2 shown in Figure 10 displays anxiety reduction information FJ indicating that the system is addressing the change in heat load Qr, and information J3 indicating measures to resolve the transient state. In the second notification screen G2 shown in Figure 10, anxiety reduction information FJ is the string "Adjusting air conditioning capacity due to increased heat load!", and information J3 is the string "Closing the blinds will speed up the adjustment."

[0153] Furthermore, the second notification screen G2 may also display the first estimated time calculated in step S117. In this case, for example, the second notification screen G2 may display the text: "Adjusting air conditioning capacity due to increased load! The adjustment will be completed in approximately 5 minutes. Closing the blinds will speed up the adjustment." In this example, "5 minutes" is the first estimated time.

[0154] Returning to the flowchart in Figure 7, the determination unit 205 determines whether or not the third period TP3 has started (step S119). The determination unit 205 determines whether the third condition is met based on the target air conditioning capacity W set in any of steps S6, S7, or S8 and the air conditioning capacity Wr estimated in step S10. If the third condition is met, it makes a positive determination in step S119, and if the third condition is not met, it makes a negative determination in step S119.

[0155] If the determination unit 205 determines that the third period TP3 has not started (step S119: NO), the first processor 20 terminates the processing related to the transient state.

[0156] On the other hand, if it is determined that the third period TP3 has started (step S119: YES), the determination unit 205 stores information indicating that it is the third period TP3 in the first memory 21 (step S120).

[0157] Next, the estimated time calculation unit 206 calculates a second estimated time based on the ambient temperature Tc and the set temperature Tt obtained in step S1 (step S121).

[0158] Next, the information transmission unit 207 transmits the third notification request information to the indoor unit 3A (step S122). The third notification request information is information requesting notification of anxiety reduction information FJ. The second notification request information includes the second estimated time calculated in step S121.

[0159] The third notification request information transmitted by the information transmission unit 207 is forwarded to the remote controller 5 by the indoor unit 3A. When the remote controller 5 receives the third notification request information, the notification unit 532 of the remote controller 5 issues a notification as shown in Figure 11.

[0160] Figure 11 shows an example of a notification by the notification unit 532. The notification unit 532 notifies the user of anxiety reduction information FJ by displaying the third notification screen G3 on the display 51.

[0161] The third notification screen G3 shown in Figure 11 displays information including the second estimated time until the ambient temperature Tc returns to the set temperature Tt as anxiety reduction information FJ. In the third notification screen G3 shown in Figure 11, the anxiety reduction information FJ is the text "It will take approximately 5 minutes for the room temperature to return to the set temperature," and the second estimated time is "5 minutes."

[0162] Moving on to the flowchart in Figure 8, the determination unit 205 determines whether or not the fourth period TP4 has started (step S123). The determination unit 205 determines whether the fourth condition is met based on the ambient temperature Tc obtained in step S1. If the fourth condition is met, it makes a positive determination in step S123, and if the fourth condition is not met, it makes a negative determination in step S144.

[0163] If the determination unit 205 determines that the fourth period TP4 has not started (step S123: NO), the first processor 20 terminates the processing related to the transient state.

[0164] On the other hand, if it is determined that the fourth period TP4 has started (step S123: YES), the determination unit 205 stores information indicating that it is the fourth period TP4 in the first memory 21 (step S124).

[0165] Next, the guideline time calculation unit 206 calculates the third guideline time based on the target air conditioning capacity W set in steps S6, S7, and S8 and the air conditioning capacity Wr estimated in step S10 (step S125).

[0166] Next, the information transmission unit 207 transmits the fourth notification request information to the indoor unit 3A (step S126). The fourth notification request information is information requesting notification of anxiety reduction information FJ. The fourth notification request information includes the third estimated time calculated in step S126.

[0167] The fourth notification request information transmitted by the information transmission unit 207 is forwarded to the remote controller 5 by the indoor unit 3A. When the remote controller 5 receives the fourth notification request information, the notification unit 532 of the remote controller 5 issues a notification as shown in Figure 12.

[0168] Figure 12 shows an example of a notification by the notification unit 532. The notification unit 532 notifies the user of anxiety reduction information FJ by displaying the fourth notification screen G4 on the display 51.

[0169] The fourth notification screen G4 shown in Figure 12 displays information including the third estimated time until the transient state is resolved as anxiety reduction information FJ. In the fourth notification screen G4 shown in Figure 12, the anxiety reduction information FJ is the text "Room temperature is near the set temperature. Air conditioning capacity adjustment will be completed in approximately 2 minutes," and the third estimated time is "2 minutes."

[0170] Returning to the flowchart in Figure 8, the determination unit 205 determines whether the fourth period TP4 has ended (step S127). The determination unit 205 determines whether the fifth condition is met based on the target air conditioning capacity W set in any of steps S6, S7, or S8 and the air conditioning capacity Wr estimated in step S10. If the fifth condition is met, it makes a positive determination in step S127, and if the fifth condition is not met, it makes a negative determination in step S127.

[0171] If the determination unit 205 determines that the fourth period TP4 has not ended (step S127: NO), the first processor 20 terminates the processing related to the transient state.

[0172] On the other hand, if it is determined that the fourth period TP4 has ended (step S127: YES), the determination unit 205 erases from the first memory 21 the information indicating that it is the fourth period TP4 and the information indicating that it is in a transient state (step S128).

[0173] Next, the information transmission unit 207 transmits the fifth notification request information to the indoor unit 3A (step S129). The fifth notification request information is information requesting notification that the transient state has been resolved.

[0174] The fifth notification request information transmitted by the information transmission unit 207 is forwarded to the remote controller 5 by the indoor unit 3A. When the remote controller 5 receives the fifth notification request information, the notification unit 532 of the remote controller 5 notifies the display 51 that the transient state has been resolved. This notification ends after a predetermined period of time has elapsed.

[0175] Returning to the explanation of step S111 shown in Figure 7, if the determination unit 205 determines that it is in a transient state (step S111), it determines whether or not the transient state period TP is in the first period TP1 (step S130).

[0176] If information indicating that it is the first period TP1 is stored in the first memory 21, the determination unit 205 makes a positive determination in step S130. On the other hand, if information indicating that it is the first period TP1 is not stored in the first memory 21, the determination unit 205 makes a negative determination in step S130.

[0177] If the determination unit 205 determines that it is the first period TP1 (step S130: YES), it performs the determination in step S115. On the other hand, if the determination unit 205 determines that it is not the first period TP1 (step S130: NO), it determines whether or not it is the second period TP2 during the transient state period TP (step S131).

[0178] If information indicating that it is the second period TP2 is stored in the first memory 21, the determination unit 205 makes a positive determination in step S131. On the other hand, if information indicating that it is the second period TP2 is not stored in the first memory 21, the determination unit 205 makes a negative determination in step S131.

[0179] If the determination unit 205 determines that it is the second period TP2 (step S131: YES), it performs the determination in step S119. On the other hand, if the determination unit 205 determines that it is not the second period TP2 (step S131: NO), it determines whether or not it is the third period TP3 during the transient state period TP (step S132).

[0180] If information indicating that it is the third period TP3 is stored in the first memory 21, the determination unit 205 makes a positive determination in step S132. On the other hand, if information indicating that it is the third period TP3 is not stored in the first memory 21, the determination unit 205 makes a negative determination in step S132.

[0181] If the determination unit 205 determines that it is the third period TP3 (step S132: YES), it performs the determination in step S123. On the other hand, if the determination unit 205 determines that it is not the third period TP3 (step S132: NO), it performs the determination in step S127.

[0182] [1-3. Effects, etc.] As explained above, the air conditioning system 1 includes a notification unit 532. When the state of the air conditioner 3 that air-conditions the target space S is in a transient state in which the air conditioning capacity wr of the air conditioner 3 cannot keep up with the change in the heat load Qr of the target space S, the notification unit 532 notifies the target space S of anxiety reduction information FJ, which is information that can alleviate the anxiety that the user may have due to the transient state of the air conditioner 3.

[0183] According to this, if the state of the air conditioner 3 is such that its air conditioning capacity Wr cannot keep up with the changes in the heat load Qr of the target space S, the user P of the air conditioner 3 can grasp the anxiety reduction information FJ. Therefore, the anxiety that user P may have due to the air conditioner 3's inability to keep up with the changes in the heat load Qr of the target space S can be reduced.

[0184] The transient period TP, which is a transient state, includes the first period TP1, the second period TP2, the third period TP3, and the fourth period TP4. The first period TP1 is a period that begins when the spatial temperature Tc is within the comfort range Rm that a predetermined user P finds comfortable, and the difference between the target air conditioning capacity W and the air conditioning capacity Wr is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold for a predetermined period of time or longer. In the first period TP1, the notification unit 532 does not notify the user of anxiety reduction information FJ, but notifies the user of at least one of the following: that there has been a change in the heat load Qr, and that the temperature of the target space S has fallen outside the comfort range Rm.

[0185] According to this, since the first period TP1 includes a period in which the ambient temperature Tc is within the comfortable range Rm, it is highly likely that user P does not feel discomfort with the air conditioning, and therefore it is highly likely that user P does not have the anxiety that can arise from a transient state. For this reason, by not notifying anxiety reduction information FJ, it is possible to prevent the unnecessary notification of anxiety reduction information FJ, which could conversely exacerbate anxiety. In addition, by notifying user P that there has been a change in the heat load Qr, and that the ambient temperature Tc has moved outside the comfortable range Rm, it is possible to warn user P that they may feel discomfort with the air conditioning, and to reduce the discomfort they feel with the air conditioning after being warned.

[0186] The second period TP2 is a period that begins after the start of the first period TP1 when the ambient temperature Tc remains outside the comfortable range Rm for a predetermined period of time or longer. In the second period TP2, the notification unit 532 notifies that changes in the heat load Qr are being addressed as anxiety reduction information FJ.

[0187] According to this, in the second period TP2, there is a high probability that user P will begin to feel discomfort with the air conditioning, and therefore a high probability that user P will begin to feel anxiety that may arise due to the transient state. Therefore, by notifying user P that the system is dealing with the change in heat load Qr as anxiety reduction information FJ, it is possible to understand that user P is dealing with the change in heat load Qr, and in a situation where user P is likely to begin to feel anxiety that may arise due to the transient state, this anxiety can be alleviated.

[0188] The notification unit 532 further notifies the target space S of measures to resolve the transient state during the second period TP2.

[0189] According to this, it is possible to guide user P on measures to resolve the transient state, thereby preventing user P from taking incorrect measures that would increase the thermal load Qr and prolong the transient state.

[0190] The third period TP3 begins after the start of the second period TP2, when the period during which the difference between the target air conditioning capacity W and the air conditioning capacity Wr remains below a predetermined threshold continues for a predetermined period of time. In the third period TP3, the notification unit 532 notifies information as anxiety reduction information FJ, which includes an estimated time until the ambient temperature Tc returns to the comfortable range Rm.

[0191] According to this, it is highly likely that user P is aware that they are dealing with the heat load Qr during the second period TP2. Therefore, in the third period TP3, user P is likely to be anxious about how long it will take for the ambient temperature Tc to return to the comfortable range Rm. For this reason, in the third period TP3, by notifying user P of information including an estimated time until the ambient temperature Tc returns to the comfortable range Rm as anxiety reduction information FJ, anxiety about how long it will take for the ambient temperature Tc to return to the comfortable range Rm can be reduced.

[0192] The fourth period, TP4, begins after the start of the third period, TP3, when the ambient temperature Tc remains within the comfortable range Rm for a predetermined period of time or longer. In the fourth period, TP4, the notification unit 532 notifies information FJ, which includes an estimated time until the transient state is resolved, as anxiety reduction information.

[0193] According to this, in the fourth period TP4, there is a high probability that user P does not experience discomfort with the air conditioning. However, since this period includes a time when the air conditioner 3 is in a transient state, it is highly likely that user P will experience anxiety about how long it will take for the transient state to resolve due to the air conditioner 3 operating excessively because of the transient state. Therefore, in the fourth period TP4, by notifying user P of information including an estimated time until the transient state is resolved as anxiety reduction information FJ, anxiety about how long it will take for the transient state to resolve can be reduced.

[0194] The third program 541 causes the third processor 53 to function as a notification unit 532.

[0195] According to this, it will produce the same effect as the air conditioning system 1 described above.

[0196] (Embodiment 2) Next, Embodiment 2 will be described. The description of Embodiment 2 will explain the differences from Embodiment 1.

[0197] [2-1. Structure] In this embodiment, the determination unit 205 further determines whether or not an environmental change has occurred in the target space S that could be perceived as a decrease in comfort.

[0198] For example, the determination unit 205 calculates a PMV (Predicted Mean Vote) value at predetermined time intervals. If the calculated PMV value is within ±0.5, it determines that no environmental change has occurred in the target space S that could cause a decrease in comfort. If the calculated PMV value is not within ±0.5, it determines that an environmental change has occurred in the target space S that could cause a decrease in comfort. In this example, the information acquisition unit 201 acquires the ambient temperature Tc, humidity of the target space S, radiant temperature in the target space S, and wind speed in the target space S, which are considered environmental elements among the parameters necessary for calculating the PMV value, from sensors that detect each element at predetermined time intervals. In this example, the target space S is equipped with sensors that detect each of the environmental elements. In this example, the information acquisition unit 201 also acquires the amount of clothing worn and the amount of work performed, which are considered human elements, from a terminal device that receives declarations from the user P. Then, in this example, the determination unit 205 calculates the PMV value by substituting this information acquired by the information acquisition unit 201 into the comfort equation.

[0199] Furthermore, the determination unit 205 may determine whether or not an environmental change has occurred that could be perceived as a decrease in comfort, using other evaluation values ​​related to comfort, such as the discomfort index, instead of making a determination using the PMV value.

[0200] [2-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each part of the air conditioning system 1 in this embodiment will be described. Compared to Embodiment 1, this embodiment differs in its handling of transient states.

[0201] In this embodiment, before step S111, the determination unit 205 determines whether or not an environmental change has occurred in the target space S that could cause a decrease in comfort. If the determination unit 205 determines that no environmental changes have occurred that could cause a decrease in comfort, the first processor 20 terminates the processing related to the transient state. On the other hand, if the determination unit 205 determines that an environmental change has occurred that may cause a decrease in comfort, the first processor 20 performs the processing from step S111 onwards, as described in Figures 7 and 8.

[0202] [2-3. Effects, etc.] As explained above, the air conditioning system 1 includes a determination unit 205 that determines whether or not an environmental change has occurred in the target space S that may cause a decrease in comfort. The notification unit 532 notifies the user of anxiety reduction information FJ when the determination unit 205 determines that an environmental change has occurred and the state of the air conditioner 3 is in a transient state.

[0203] According to this, anxiety reduction information FJ is notified when an environmental change occurs that may cause a decrease in comfort, and when the air conditioner 3 is in a transient state, thus preventing unnecessary notification of anxiety reduction information FJ.

[0204] The determination unit 205 makes a determination based on the PMV value.

[0205] According to this method, since the determination can be made based on a thermal comfort index that represents how humans feel, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not an environmental change has occurred that could cause a decrease in comfort. Therefore, it is possible to further reduce the unnecessary notification of anxiety-reducing information (FJ).

[0206] (Other embodiments) As described above, Embodiments 1 and 2 have been explained as examples disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited thereto and can be applied to embodiments that have been modified, replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, it is possible to combine the components described in Embodiments 1 and 2 to create new embodiments. Therefore, other embodiments are described below as examples.

[0207] If multiple indoor units 3A are installed in the target space S, the notification unit 532 may display a fifth notification screen G5 as shown in Figure 13 to notify the user of anxiety reduction information FJ for each area air-conditioned by the indoor units 3A.

[0208] Figure 13 shows an example of notification by the notification unit 532 in another embodiment. The fifth notification screen G5 is a screen that simulates the arrangement of the indoor unit 3A in the target space S. It is a screen in which images KG, which simulate the area air-conditioned by the indoor unit 3A, are arranged along the placement position of the indoor unit 3A in the target space S. Note that images KG are not limited to rectangles and may be circular, elliptical, or any other shape. As shown in Figure 13, the notification unit 532 displays anxiety reduction information FJ on image KG corresponding to the area air-conditioned by indoor unit 3A in a transient state. The notification unit 532 may also change the color of image KG depending on whether it is in a transient state or not, and whether it is the first period TP1, the second period TP2, the third period TP3, or the fourth period TP4. In this other embodiment, the first processor 20 performs the operations described in Embodiment 1 for each area and transmits information to the indoor unit 3A so that the areas can be distinguished. As a result, the notification unit 532 can perform area-specific notifications as shown in Figure 13.

[0209] According to this other embodiment, since the air conditioner 3 notifies anxiety reduction information FJ for each area it air-conditions, it is possible to notify anxiety reduction information FJ in a divided area, and it is possible to suppress the unnecessary notification of anxiety reduction information FJ to users P who are in an area air-conditioned by the air conditioner 3 that is not in a transient state.

[0210] In the embodiment described above, the remote controller 5 is configured to provide the aforementioned notifications. In other embodiments, a terminal device used personally by user P, such as a tablet PC (Personal Computer), a laptop PC, a smartphone, or a smartwatch, may provide the same notifications as the remote controller 5. In this case, the air conditioning setting device 2 determines whether user P, who uses the terminal device to be notified, is present in the target space S through pre-registration, registration upon entry, or registration after entry, and also obtains information (such as an address) for communicating with the terminal device used by user P present in the target space S through user P's registration.

[0211] In the above-described embodiment, the comfort range Rm for the temperature difference ΔT used by the setting unit 203 of the air conditioning setting device 2 is a range defined by the first threshold Th1 and the second threshold Th2 as the upper and lower limits, respectively. In other embodiments, the comfort range Rm is not limited to a range with upper and lower limits, but may be a range defined by only the upper limit or only the lower limit.

[0212] In this embodiment, the air conditioning setting device 2 is exemplified as a server device connected to a communication network NW. However, the air conditioning setting device 2 is not limited to a server device and may be implemented as any form of device. For example, the air conditioning setting device 2 may be a device built into a communication relay device 4. Alternatively, for example, the air conditioning setting device 2 may be part of the air conditioning control device 30 provided in the indoor unit 3A of the air conditioner 3.

[0213] In the embodiment described above, the notification mode of the notification unit 532 is display. In other embodiments, the notification mode of the notification unit 532 may be other modes, such as audio output.

[0214] In other embodiments, during the second period TP2, the notification unit 532 may notify information including the first estimated time.

[0215] In other embodiments, the measures notified in the second period TP2 may be automatically executed. For example, if the measures are to close the blinds, in this other embodiment, the remote controller 5 communicates with the automatically openable and closable blinds, and the remote controller 5 closes the blinds in the second period TP2.

[0216] In other embodiments, the measures notified in the second period TP2 may be automatically executed if permission is obtained from user P. For example, if the measures are to close the blinds, in this other embodiment, the remote controller 5 asks user P whether to execute the measures to close the blinds. If permission is obtained from user P, the remote controller 5 communicates with the automatically openable and closable blinds and closes the blinds in the second period TP2.

[0217] The first processor 20, the second processor 33, and the third processor 53 may be composed of a single processor or multiple processors. These processors may also be hardware programmed to implement the corresponding functional units. That is, these processors may be composed of, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0218] The configuration of each part of the air conditioning system 1 shown in Figure 2 is merely an example, and the specific implementation is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessarily required that hardware corresponding to each part be implemented individually; it is also possible to configure the system so that a single processor executes a program to realize the functions of each part. Furthermore, some of the functions realized by software in the above-described embodiment may be implemented by hardware, or vice versa.

[0219] The operational step units shown in Figures 6, 7, and 8 are divided according to the main processing content to facilitate understanding of the operation, and the operation is not limited by the way the processing units are divided or the names of the processing units. Depending on the processing content, it may be further divided into more step units. Alternatively, it may be divided so that one step unit includes even more processing. Furthermore, the order of the steps may be changed as appropriate, as long as it does not impede the intent of this disclosure.

[0220] Since the embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes of the technology described herein, various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc., can be made within the claims or their equivalents.

[0221] (Note) Based on the above description of embodiments, the following technologies are disclosed.

[0222] (Technical 1) An air conditioning system comprising a notification unit that notifies the target space of anxiety reduction information, which is information that can alleviate the anxiety that a user may have as a result of the air conditioner being in a transient state, when the state of the air conditioner that air-conditions the target space is in a transient state in which the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner is unable to keep up with changes in the heat load of the target space. According to this, if the air conditioner's cooling capacity is not keeping up with changes in the heat load of the target space, the air conditioner user can understand information that will alleviate their anxiety. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the anxiety that users may have when the air conditioner's cooling capacity is not keeping up with changes in the heat load of the target space.

[0223] (Technical 2) The transient state period during which the state of the air conditioner is in the transient state includes a first period, a second period, a third period, and a fourth period, wherein the first period is a period that begins when the temperature of the target space is within a predetermined range of comfort that a user finds comfortable, and the difference between the target value of the air conditioning capacity and the air conditioning capacity is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold for a predetermined period of time or longer, and the notification unit, in the first period, notifies at least one of the following without notifying the anxiety reduction information: that there has been a change in the heat load, and that the temperature of the target space has fallen outside the comfort range, the air conditioning system according to Technical 1. According to this, since the first period includes a period in which the temperature of the target space is within a comfortable range, it is highly likely that the user is not experiencing discomfort with the air conditioning, and therefore is unlikely to be experiencing the anxiety that may arise from a transitional state. Therefore, by not notifying the user of anxiety-reducing information, it is possible to prevent the unnecessary notification of such information from actually increasing anxiety. In addition, by notifying the user of at least one of the following: that there has been a change in heat load, or that the temperature of the target space has moved outside the comfortable range, it is possible to warn the user that they may experience discomfort with the air conditioning, and to reduce the discomfort they experience with the air conditioning after being warned.

[0224] (Technical 3) The air conditioning system according to Technical 2, wherein the second period is a period that begins after the start of the first period when the temperature of the target space remains outside the comfortable range for a predetermined period of time or longer, and the notification unit notifies, as anxiety reduction information, that the change in heat load is being addressed during the second period. According to this, in the second period, there is a high probability that the user will begin to feel discomfort with the air conditioning, and therefore, there is a high probability that user P will begin to feel anxiety that may arise due to the transient state. Therefore, by notifying user P that the system is dealing with the change in heat load Qr as anxiety reduction information FJ, it is possible to understand that user P is dealing with the change in heat load Qr, and in a situation where user P is likely to begin to feel anxiety that may arise due to the transient state, this anxiety can be alleviated.

[0225] (Technical 4) The air conditioning system according to Technical 3, wherein the notification unit further notifies the target space of measures to resolve the transient state during the second period. This allows us to guide users on measures to resolve transient conditions, thereby preventing users from taking incorrect measures that could increase the heat load and prolong the transient condition.

[0226] (Technical 5) The third period is a period that begins after the start of the second period when the period during which the difference is less than a predetermined threshold continues for a predetermined threshold or longer, and the notification unit notifies, in the third period, information including an estimated time until the temperature of the target space returns to the comfortable range as anxiety reduction information, according to the air conditioning system of Technical 3 or Technical 4. According to this, since it is highly likely that users are aware that they are dealing with the heat load during the second period, they are likely to feel anxious during the third period about how long it will take for the temperature of the target space to return to a comfortable range. Therefore, during the third period, by notifying users of information including an estimated time until the space temperature returns to a comfortable range as anxiety-reducing information, their anxiety about how long it will take for the temperature of the target space to return to a comfortable range can be alleviated.

[0227] (Technical 6) The air conditioning system according to Technical 5, wherein the fourth period is a period that begins after the start of the third period when the temperature of the target space remains within the comfortable range for a predetermined period of time or longer, and the notification unit notifies, as anxiety reduction information, information including an estimated time until the transient state is resolved. According to this, while it is highly likely that users will not experience discomfort with the air conditioning during the fourth period, this period includes a time when the air conditioner is in a transitional state. As a result, the air conditioner may overoperate due to this transitional state, and users are likely to feel anxious about how long it will take for the transitional state to resolve. Therefore, during the fourth period, by notifying users of information including an estimated time until the transitional state is resolved as anxiety-reducing information, it is possible to alleviate their anxiety about how long it will take for the transitional state to resolve.

[0228] (Technical 7) An air conditioning system according to any one of Technical 1 to Technical 6, comprising a determination unit that determines whether or not an environmental change has occurred in the target space that may cause a decrease in comfort, and the notification unit notifies the anxiety reduction information when the determination unit determines that the environmental change has occurred and the state of the air conditioner is in the transient state. According to this, anxiety reduction information is notified when an environmental change occurs that may cause a decrease in comfort, and the air conditioner is in a transitional state, thus preventing unnecessary notifications of anxiety reduction information.

[0229] (Technical 8) The air conditioning system according to Technical 7, wherein the determination unit makes a determination based on the PMV value. According to this method, since the determination can be made based on a thermal comfort index that represents how humans feel, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not an environmental change has occurred that could cause a decrease in comfort. Therefore, it is possible to further reduce the unnecessary notification of anxiety-reducing information.

[0230] (Technical 9) When multiple air conditioners are installed in the target space, the notification unit notifies the anxiety reduction information for each area air-conditioned by the air conditioners, according to any one of Technical 1 to Technical 8, the air conditioning system. According to this, anxiety reduction information is notified for each area that the air conditioner is conditioned in, so anxiety reduction information can be notified separately for each area, and it is possible to prevent unnecessary notification of anxiety reduction information to users who are in an area conditioned by an air conditioner that is not in a transient state.

[0231] (Technical 10) A program that causes the processor to function as a notification unit that notifies the target space of anxiety reduction information, which is information that can alleviate the anxiety that a user may feel when the state of the air conditioner that air conditioners the target space is in a transient state in which the air conditioner's air conditioning capacity is unable to keep up with changes in the heat load of the target space. According to this, it will produce the same effect as the air conditioning system described in Technology 1. [Industrial applicability]

[0232] As described above, the air conditioning system and program according to the present invention can be used to alleviate the anxiety that users may feel when the air conditioning capacity of an air conditioner is unable to keep up with changes in the heat load of the target space. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0233] 1. Air conditioning system 2. Air conditioning setting device 3 Air conditioner 3A indoor unit 3B Outdoor unit 4. Communication relay equipment 5. Remote Controller 6. Indoor sensors 7. Ventilation system 8 Outdoor Sensors 9. Lighting equipment 10 Refrigerator 11 TV 12. Personal computer 13 motion sensors 20 First Processor 21 First Memory 22 First communication device 30 Air conditioning control device 31 Indoor ventilation fan 32 Indoor expansion valve 33 Second Memory 33 Second Processor 34 Second Memory 35. Second communication device 50 Terminal control device 51 displays 52 Control Panel 53. Third Processor (Processor) 54 Third Memory 55 Third communication device 201 Information Acquisition Department 202 1st estimation part (estimation part) 203 Settings Section 204 Second estimation part 205 Judgment section 206 Estimated Time Calculation Unit 207 Information Transmission Department 211 Program 1 301 Compressor 302 Compressor Motor 331 Air Conditioning Communication Unit 332 Control Unit 341 Program 2 531 Terminal Communication Unit 532 Notification Unit 541 Program 3 (Program) DR Door FJ Anxiety Reduction Information G1 First Notification Screen G3 Third Notification Screen G4 Fourth Notification Screen G5 Fifth Notification Screen GF1~GF7 Graph H Building J1 Information J2 Information J3 Information KG Image NW Communication Network Qr Heat Load R1 First Adjustment Range R2 Second Adjustment Range Rm Comfort Range S Target Space T1~T2 Time TA~TE Time TP Transient State Period TP1 First Period TP2 Second Period TP3 Third Period TP4 Fourth Period TV~TZ Time Tc Space Temperature (Temperature of the Target Space) Th1 First Threshold Th2 Second Threshold Tt Set Temperature W Target Air Conditioning Capacity WD Window Wr Air Conditioning Capacity ΔT Temperature Difference α Adjustment Amount β Adjustment Amount

Claims

1. The system includes a notification unit that, when the state of an air conditioner providing air conditioning to a target space is in a transient state where the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner cannot keep up with changes in the heat load of the target space, notifies the target space of anxiety reduction information, which is information that can alleviate the anxiety that a user might feel due to the air conditioner being in such a transient state. Air conditioning system.

2. The transient period during which the state of the air conditioner is in the transient state includes the first period, the second period, the third period, and the fourth period. The first period is a period that begins when the temperature of the target space is within a predetermined range of comfort that a user finds comfortable, and the difference between the target value of the air conditioning capacity and the actual air conditioning capacity remains above a predetermined threshold for a predetermined period of time or longer. The notification unit, during the first period, notifies, without notifying the anxiety reduction information, that there has been a change in the heat load, and that the temperature of the target space has fallen outside the comfort range. The air conditioning system according to claim 1.

3. The second period is a period that begins after the start of the first period when the temperature of the target space remains outside the comfort range for a predetermined period of time or longer. The notification unit, during the second period, notifies that the change in heat load is being addressed as anxiety reduction information. The air conditioning system according to claim 2.

4. The notification unit further notifies the target space of measures to resolve the transient state during the second period. The air conditioning system according to claim 3.

5. The third period is a period that begins after the start of the second period when the period during which the difference is less than a predetermined threshold continues for a predetermined threshold or longer. During the third period, the notification unit notifies, as anxiety reduction information, information including an estimated time until the temperature of the target space returns to the comfortable range. The air conditioning system according to claim 3 or 4.

6. The fourth period is a period that begins after the start of the third period, when the temperature of the target space remains within the comfortable range for a predetermined period of time or longer. The notification unit, during the fourth period, notifies information including an estimated time until the transient state is resolved, as the anxiety reduction information. The air conditioning system according to claim 5.

7. The system includes a determination unit that determines whether or not an environmental change has occurred in the target space that could cause a decrease in comfort. The notification unit notifies the anxiety reduction information when the determination unit determines that the environmental change has occurred and the state of the air conditioner is in the transient state. The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The determination unit makes a determination based on the PMV value. The air conditioning system according to claim 7.

9. If multiple air conditioners are installed in the target space, the notification unit will notify the anxiety reduction information for each area that the air conditioners ventilate. The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

10. The processor, When the state of the air conditioner supplying the target space is in a transient state where the air conditioner's cooling capacity cannot keep up with changes in the heat load of the target space, the notification unit functions to notify the target space of anxiety reduction information, which is information that can alleviate the anxiety that the user may feel due to the air conditioner being in such a transient state. program.

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