Sauna equipment

Abstract

Reduce the energy used to heat the air in the sauna. [Solution] The structure comprises a second wall perpendicular to the first wall and perpendicular to the floor, a fourth wall perpendicular to the third wall perpendicular to the first wall and perpendicular to the floor, a ceiling, an opening, a first pipe whose lower end is connected to the opening and allows air to flow from above the ceiling to the opening, a second pipe whose first end is connected to the upper end of the first pipe and passes through the upper space which is the space above the ceiling, an air supply section connected to the second end of the second pipe and allowing air to flow into the second pipe from the outside, a heater section that warms the air flowing in from the opening, and a control section that controls the heater section. The second pipe is composed of a first component pipe that sends air in a first direction toward the opening from the air supply section in the upper space, and a second component pipe that sends air in a second direction different from the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sauna device.

Background Art

[0002] Efforts are being made to promote the Sustainable Development Goals (the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted at the United Nations Summit on September 25, 2015, hereinafter referred to as "SDGs"). Specifically, technologies to "provide energy for all and in a clean way" are in demand.

[0003] Conventionally, a technology for forming a sauna by heating a room with a heater is known.

[0004] Specifically, in a mist sauna, a dry mist sauna device that can obtain a comfortable sauna effect is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1, etc.).

[0005] In addition, the temperature of the air created by an air-conditioning coil is fixed by an air supply temperature setter, and the air supply capacity of a blower is controlled by an indoor temperature setter and an inverter to a value corresponding to the indoor load. Thus, a technology for an air-conditioning device and an air-conditioning method that can reduce a significant amount of power consumption with a simple configuration by maintaining a target room at a constant temperature is known (see, for example, Patent Document 2, etc.).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] Conventional technology has the problem of consuming a lot of energy to heat the air used in saunas.

[0008] The present invention aims to reduce the energy required to heat the air used in a sauna. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] To solve the above problems, a sauna device in one aspect of the present invention is: The floor surface and, A first wall portion perpendicular to the floor surface and forming a first wall, A second wall portion that is perpendicular to the first wall portion and perpendicular to the floor portion, A third wall portion that is perpendicular to the first wall portion and perpendicular to the floor portion, A fourth wall portion that is perpendicular to the third wall portion and perpendicular to the floor surface portion, A ceiling portion which forms the ceiling of the space enclosed by the first wall portion, the second wall portion, the third wall portion, and the fourth wall portion, An opening formed in any of the first wall portion, the second wall portion, the third wall portion, and the fourth wall portion, The opening and the lower end are connected, and a first pipe section flows air from above the ceiling section to the opening, The first end of the second pipe section is connected to the upper end of the first pipe section, and the second pipe section passes through the upper space which is the space above the ceiling section, An air supply section connected to the second end of the second pipe section, which allows air to flow into the second pipe section from the outside, A heater unit that warms the air flowing in from the opening, Control unit for controlling the heater unit and Equipped with, The second pipe section is, A first component pipe that sends the air in the upper space in a first direction toward the opening, It is configured by combining a second component pipe that delivers the air in a second direction different from the first direction. It is characterized by the following:

Advantages of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, the energy used to warm the air for use in a sauna can be reduced.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the sauna device 1. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing an example of the greenhouse 10. [Figure 3] It is a diagram showing an example of the second pipe part 22 in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing examples of the first pipe part 21 and the second pipe part 22. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing an example of the overall process. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing a first modification example of the ceiling part 16. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing a second modification example of the ceiling part 16. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing an example of the second embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing a first example of the second pipe part 22 in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing a second example of the second pipe part 22 in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing a third example of the second pipe part 22 in the first embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing a first example of the first pipe part 21. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing a second example of the first pipe part 21. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing a modification example in the second direction.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] The following examples will be explained with reference to the attached drawings. In the following explanation, the reference numerals in the drawings refer to the same elements. Furthermore, the embodiments are not limited to the following examples, and embodiments may include elements other than those shown in the drawings.

[0013] [First Embodiment] [Example of overall configuration of sauna device 1] Figure 1 shows an example of the overall configuration of sauna device 1. Hereafter, the vertical direction will be referred to as the "Z-axis direction". The direction perpendicular to the Z-axis and corresponding to the depth direction will be referred to as the "X-axis direction". The direction perpendicular to both the X-axis and the Z-axis and corresponding to the left of the X-axis direction will be referred to as the "Y-axis direction". Therefore, the XY plane is the "horizontal plane".

[0014] The sauna device 1 controls the heating of a space (hereinafter referred to as "greenhouse 10") that is separated from the outside world by a wall. Greenhouse 10 is a space in which people enter. In other words, people receive a sauna service, warming their bodies inside greenhouse 10.

[0015] [Examples of the first wall section 11, the second wall section 12, the third wall section 13, the fourth wall section 14, the floor section 15, and the ceiling section 16] Figure 2 shows an example of a greenhouse 10. For example, the greenhouse 10 is a space enclosed by a first wall 11, a second wall 12, a third wall 13, a fourth wall 14, a floor 15, and a ceiling 16.

[0016] For example, the first wall section 11 is the front wall of the greenhouse 10, which is the front wall in the YZ plane in Figure 2. Therefore, the first wall section 11 is installed parallel to the YZ plane and perpendicular to the floor section 15. Also, the first side of the first wall section 11 (the right side in Figure 2) is perpendicular to the second wall section 12. On the other hand, the second side of the first wall section 11 (the left side in Figure 2) is perpendicular to the third wall section 13. Furthermore, the third side of the first wall section 11 (the top side in Figure 2) is perpendicular to the ceiling section 16. And finally, the fourth side of the first wall section 11 (the bottom side in Figure 2) is perpendicular to the floor section 15.

[0017] The second wall section 12 is the right side wall of the greenhouse 10 in Figure 2. Therefore, the second wall section 12 is installed parallel to the XZ plane and perpendicular to the floor section 15. In Figure 2, the second wall section 12 is a wall that extends in the X-axis direction (which is the depth direction in Figure 2) starting from the first side of the first wall section 11.

[0018] The third wall section 13 is the left side wall of the greenhouse 10 in Figure 2. Therefore, the third wall section 13 is installed parallel to the XZ plane and perpendicular to the floor section 15. In Figure 2, the third wall section 13 is a wall that extends in the X-axis direction (which is the depth direction in Figure 2) starting from the second side of the first wall section 11. Thus, the second wall section 12 and the third wall section 13 are parallel to each other and are both walls perpendicular to the first wall section 11.

[0019] The fourth wall section 14 is the back wall of the greenhouse 10 in Figure 2. Therefore, the fourth wall section 14 is installed parallel to the YZ plane and perpendicular to the floor section 15. In addition, one side of the fourth wall section 14 is perpendicular to the second wall section 12, and another side is perpendicular to the third wall section 13.

[0020] The floor section 15 is the wall that forms the bottom of the greenhouse 10 in Figure 2. Therefore, the floor section 15 is installed parallel to the XY plane, that is, horizontally. Furthermore, one side of the floor section 15 is perpendicular to the second wall section 12, another side is perpendicular to the third wall section 13, and yet another side is perpendicular to the fourth wall section 14.

[0021] The ceiling section 16 is the wall that forms the ceiling surface of the greenhouse 10 in Figure 2. Therefore, the ceiling section 16 is installed parallel to the XY plane, that is, horizontally.

[0022] The first to fourth wall sections 11 to 14, as described above, constitute the side surface of the greenhouse 10. In the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction) of Figure 2, the greenhouse 10 is the space interposed between the front and rear walls, the first wall section 11 and the fourth wall section 14. In the left-to-right direction (Y-axis direction) of Figure 2, the greenhouse 10 is the space interposed between the side walls, the third wall section 13 and the second wall section 12. Furthermore, in the up-and-down direction (Z-axis direction) of Figure 2, the greenhouse 10 is the space interposed between the top and bottom walls, the floor section 15 and the ceiling section 16.

[0023] The floor surface 15 forms the floor surface on which people stand. For example, the floor surface 15 is installed so as to be parallel to the XY plane. That is, the floor surface 15 is a horizontal plane. However, the floor surface 15 does not have to be horizontal; it may have slopes, steps, or uneven surfaces.

[0024] The first wall section 11, the second wall section 12, the third wall section 13, the fourth wall section 14, the floor section 15, and the ceiling section 16 should preferably be made of a material with high thermal insulation properties.

[0025] Note that, for the sake of simplicity, the first wall section 11, the second wall section 12, the third wall section 13, the fourth wall section 14, the floor section 15, and the ceiling section 16 are shown as single surfaces and square, but they may be other shapes. Also, the first wall section 11, the second wall section 12, the third wall section 13, the fourth wall section 14, the floor section 15, and the ceiling section 16 may be fitted with decorative items, coated, processed, or covered with wallpaper. Furthermore, the first wall section 11, the second wall section 12, the third wall section 13, the fourth wall section 14, the floor section 15, and the ceiling section 16 may consist of multiple panels.

[0026] An entrance / exit for people is provided in either the first wall section 11, the second wall section 12, the third wall section 13, or the fourth wall section 14. For example, the entrance / exit may be a door, a curtain, or an opening. There may be multiple entrances / exits.

[0027] The shape of the greenhouse 10 is not limited to a cube. For example, the shape of the greenhouse 10 may be a rectangular prism that is long in the X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, or Z-axis direction. In addition, the greenhouse 10 may have an uneven surface, a sloped ceiling 16, or a dome shape.

[0028] [Example of opening 20] The opening 20 is a through-hole for drawing air into the greenhouse 10. For example, the opening 20 is provided in the fourth wall 14.

[0029] A first pipe section 21 is installed on the outside of the opening 20 (the outside of the greenhouse 10, that is, the outside world of the space enclosed by the first wall section 11, the second wall section 12, the third wall section 13, the fourth wall section 14, the floor section 15, and the ceiling section 16).

[0030] Therefore, air that has flowed through the first pipe section 21 flows into the greenhouse 10 from the opening 20.

[0031] Note that the position, size, range, and number of openings 20 are not limited to the example shown in Figure 1. In other words, the openings 20 may be provided at locations other than the fourth wall portion 14. Also, there may be multiple openings 20. Furthermore, the openings 20 may be equipped with a mechanism that allows them to be opened and closed.

[0032] Air flowing into the greenhouse 10 through the opening 20 is heated by the heater unit 30. The heater unit 30 is often installed on the floor 15 rather than on a wall or the like. Therefore, it is desirable that the opening 20 be installed at a low position to match the height of the heater unit 30. When the opening 20 is installed at a low position to match the installation height of the heater unit 30, the air can be heated efficiently by the heater unit 30.

[0033] [Example of the first pipe section 21] The first pipe section 21 is a pipe through which air flows from above to the opening 20. For example, the first pipe section 21 is a duct or the like. However, the material and type of the first pipe section 21 are not limited. For example, the material of the first pipe section 21 may be insulation material or metal.

[0034] The first pipe section 21 has one end (hereinafter referred to as the "lower end 211") connected to the opening 20, thereby connecting the first pipe section 21 and the opening 20. In this way, the shape, size, and orientation of the lower end 211 are not restricted as long as it can be connected to the opening 20. Furthermore, there may be a connecting mechanism to connect the first pipe section 21 and the opening 20.

[0035] The lower end 211 is located on the lower side, i.e., at a low position, in the Z-axis direction, while the end opposite to the lower end 211 (hereinafter referred to as "upper end 212") is located on the upper side, i.e., at a high position, in the Z-axis direction.

[0036] The upper end 212 is connected to one end of the second pipe section 22 (hereinafter referred to as the "first end 221"), thereby connecting the first pipe section 21 and the second pipe section 22.

[0037] Therefore, the air flowing through the second pipe section 22 (in Figure 2, the direction of flow is along the Y axis) flows from the second pipe section 22 into the first pipe section 21 at the first end 221. From there, the air flows through the first pipe section 21, from top to bottom, and flows into the greenhouse 10 from the opening 20, i.e., the lower end 211.

[0038] The first pipe section 21 is not limited in material, shape, size, or length. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the first pipe section 21 is preferably one that fits with the opening 20. Therefore, the cross-sectional shape of the first pipe section 21 may be one that is easy to connect to the opening 20.

[0039] Furthermore, the first pipe section 21 does not matter as long as it can direct the air flowing upward from the ceiling section 16, that is, the air flowing through the pipe of the second pipe section 22, to the opening 20. Therefore, the first pipe section 21 does not have to be in a straight line from the upper end 212 to the lower end 211, and may have bends in the X-axis direction along its length.

[0040] [Example of the second pipe section 22] The second pipe section 22 is, for example, a duct. However, the material and type of the second pipe section 22 are not specified. For example, the material of the second pipe section 22 may be insulation material or metal.

[0041] The second pipe section 22 is installed in the space above the ceiling section 16 (hereinafter referred to as the "upper space 24"). That is, the second pipe section 22 is installed in a position that passes over the greenhouse 10. Hereinafter, the space below the upper space 24, i.e., the greenhouse 10, will be referred to as the "lower space 25".

[0042] Figure 3 shows an example of the second pipe section 22 in the first embodiment. For example, the second pipe section 22 has the shape shown in Figure 3.

[0043] Air flows into the second pipe section 22 from the end opposite to the first end section 221 (hereinafter referred to as the "second end section 222"). The second end section 222 is then connected to the air supply section 23.

[0044] For example, the second pipe section 22 is a pipe constructed by connecting five members, the first member 2201, the second member 2202, the third member 2203, the fourth member 2204, and the fifth member 2205, from the first end 221 to the second end 222. However, the first member 2201, the second member 2202, the third member 2203, the fourth member 2204, and the fifth member 2205 do not necessarily have to be separate members, and each member may be a single unit or connected by a connecting mechanism. Also, in the illustrated example, the dotted lines indicate the breaks where each member is connected, but each member may be connected at locations other than the dotted lines.

[0045] The second pipe section 22 is installed in the upper space 24, and the first end 221 is located on the first pipe section 21 side in the Y-axis direction relative to the second end 222.

[0046] The first end portion 221 is the part that connects to the first pipe section 21. Therefore, the air that has flowed through the pipe of the second pipe section 22 up to the first end portion 221 then flows through the first pipe section 21.

[0047] Therefore, the second pipe section 22 may have different positions in the X and Z axes for the first end 221 and the second end 222. In other words, the path and shape between the first end 221 and the second end 222 of the second pipe section 22 may be any.

[0048] However, it is desirable that the second pipe section 22 is not linear but rather has a shape that "serpentines" in the upper space 24. Specifically, the second pipe section 22 has a configuration that includes a pipe (hereinafter referred to as the "first component pipe") that sends air in the upper space 24 in the direction from the air supply section 23 toward the opening 20 (hereinafter referred to as the "first direction." In Figure 3, the first direction coincides with the Y-axis direction. However, the first direction is determined by the positional relationship between the air supply section 23 and the opening 20), and a pipe (hereinafter referred to as the "second component pipe") that sends air in a direction different from the first direction (hereinafter referred to as the "second direction." In Figure 3, the second direction coincides with the X-axis direction. Hereinafter, we will assume an example where the first and second directions are orthogonal. However, the second direction only needs to be different from the first direction).

[0049] In the example shown in Figure 3, the first constituent pipe consists of the first member 2201, the third member 2203, and the fifth member 2205. On the other hand, the second constituent pipe consists of the second member 2202 and the fourth member 2204. Thus, the second pipe section 22 is a pipe formed by combining the first constituent pipe and the second constituent pipe, which are oriented in different directions.

[0050] The first member 2201, the third member 2203, and the fifth member 2205 all form paths for air to flow in the first direction. However, the first member 2201 and the fifth member 2205 are in the "+" (plus) direction in the first direction (leftward in Figure 1, which is the direction from the air supply section 23 to the opening 20). In contrast, the third member 2203 is in the opposite direction to the first member 2201, etc., in the "-" (minus) direction (rightward in Figure 1, which is the direction from the opening 20 to the air supply section 23).

[0051] The path in the direction of "+" is designated as the "outbound path," and the path in the direction of "-" is designated as the "return path." In this case, the first member 2201 and the fifth member 2205 form the outbound path, and the third member 2203 form the return path. In this way, the second pipe section 22, consisting of the first member 2201, the third member 2203, and the fifth member 2205, and the second member 2202 and fourth member 2204 that connect these members, constitutes a "return path" that moves back and forth in the first direction.

[0052] The second pipe section 22 should preferably have a wide reciprocating path or a wide bottom surface (i.e., the surface that is in direct contact with the rising warm air). A pipe with a large surface area in contact with the warm air can heat the air inside the pipe more efficiently.

[0053] In the example above, the return path was described as being formed in a first direction, but the return path does not have to be in a first direction. For example, the return path may be formed in a second direction. Also, in the example above, the distance between the outward and return paths is assumed to be equidistant, but this does not have to be the case, for example, by avoiding obstacles in the upper space 24.

[0054] Note that the combination of the first and second constituent pipes constituting the second pipe section 22 is not limited to the example above. In other words, the ratio of the first and second constituent pipes, the number of the first and second constituent pipes, and the order in which the first and second constituent pipes are combined may be other than those described above.

[0055] Furthermore, the size and shape of the first and second component tubes are not limited to the examples given above.

[0056] Furthermore, the first pipe section 21 and the second pipe section 22 do not necessarily have to be separate. In other words, the first pipe section 21 and the second pipe section 22 may be a single, integrated object without any breaks or connections.

[0057] [Examples of the first pipe section 21 and the second pipe section 22] Figure 4 shows examples of the first pipe section 21 and the second pipe section 22. For example, the pipes constituting the first pipe section 21 or the second pipe section 22 are pipes with the cross-sectional shape shown in Figure 4(A) or Figure 4(B).

[0058] Figure 4(A) shows an example where both the outer and inner diameters have a circular cross-sectional shape.

[0059] Figure 4(B) shows an example where both the outer and inner diameters have a rectangular cross-sectional shape.

[0060] Furthermore, the first pipe section 21 and the second pipe section 22 may have shapes other than those described above. Also, the pipes constituting the first pipe section 21 and the second pipe section 22 do not all have to be the same in shape and material. For example, the first pipe section 21 or the second pipe section 22 may be a combination of multiple types of pipes.

[0061] [Example of air intake section 23] The air supply section 23 is configured to draw air from the outside into the second pipe section 22. For example, the air supply section 23 can be realized by installing an air supply fan or the like at an inlet formed at the boundary with the outside. A control panel or the like may control the air supply section 23, such as turning the air supply fan ON / OFF. On the other hand, the air supply section 23 may also be a hole or the like that provides so-called "natural air supply" without an air supply fan or the like.

[0062] Furthermore, there may be multiple air supply units 23. Moreover, the location of the air supply units 23, the configuration of the device, and the size are not limited to the examples described above.

[0063] [Example of heater section 30] The heater unit 30 is, for example, a sauna heater. Specifically, the heater unit 30 is implemented as a device that converts electrical energy to generate thermal energy and warms the surrounding temperature. Note that the heater unit 30 is not limited to a device that uses electricity, but may also be a device that uses energy such as gas.

[0064] The heater unit 30 primarily warms the air flowing in from the opening 20. The heater unit 30 is controlled by the control unit 31, etc. For example, the heater unit 30 can be controlled in terms of strength or "ON / OFF". However, the heater unit 30 may also be operated manually by a person.

[0065] [Example of control unit 31] The control unit 31 is, for example, a control panel. Specifically, the control unit 31 controls the heater unit 30, the air supply unit 23, and the exhaust unit 32, etc. In addition, if the ceiling unit 16 or windows to the outside are electrically controlled devices, the control unit 31 may also control their opening and closing.

[0066] Furthermore, the control unit 31 acquires sensor data from various sensors, such as a temperature sensor, in order to implement feedback control. The sensor data may be stored in a memory device or the like.

[0067] A control panel is an example of an information processing device. Therefore, a control panel comprises an arithmetic unit, a memory device, a control device, an input device, an output device, and a communication device, etc. The control panel then executes processes such as overall processing based on a program.

[0068] The following explanation will describe an example in which the control unit 31 performs the overall processing (details of the overall processing will be described later) and controls it centrally. However, the overall processing may be performed in a distributed manner across multiple devices, for example.

[0069] [Example of exhaust section 32] The exhaust section 32 is configured to allow air to flow out from the lower space 25 to the outside. For example, the exhaust section 32 can be realized by installing an exhaust fan or the like at an outlet formed at the boundary with the outside. A control panel or the like may also control the exhaust section 32, such as turning the supply air fan ON / OFF. On the other hand, the exhaust section 32 may also be a hole or the like that performs so-called "natural exhaust" without a supply air fan or the like.

[0070] Furthermore, there may be multiple exhaust units 32. Moreover, the location of the exhaust units 32, the configuration of the device, and the size are not limited to the examples described above.

[0071] [Example of a detection unit] It is desirable that the greenhouse 10 be equipped with a temperature sensor or a motion sensor. Therefore, the control unit 31 may control the indoor temperature, etc., by feedback control based on the sensors. In addition, the control unit 31 may have an information processing device other than a control panel.

[0072] The detection unit detects, for example, people in the lower space 25. For example, the detection unit can be implemented using a human presence sensor such as a temperature, infrared, person recognition, facial recognition, contact, or weight sensor. With this detection unit, it is possible to obtain a detection result that detects in real time whether or not there are people in the lower space 25, that is, whether or not there are customers using the sauna service.

[0073] Furthermore, the sensor for the lower space 25 is a device that can be used in high-temperature and high-humidity environments. Specifically, greenhouses 10 are often set to have a high temperature of 40°C or higher and a high humidity of 5% or higher. Therefore, sensors used for office equipment applications, etc., often cannot be reliably used. For this reason, it is desirable to implement the detection unit with a sensor designed for high temperature and high humidity.

[0074] [Overall processing example] Figure 5 shows an example of the overall processing. For example, when the power is turned on, the control unit 31 starts the following overall processing to implement the control method.

[0075] In step S01, it is desirable for the control unit 31 to determine whether or not there is a person in the lower space 25 based on the detection results from the sensor data.

[0076] Next, if it determines that there is no person (NO in step S01), the control unit 31 proceeds to step S02. On the other hand, if it determines that there is a person (YES in step S01), the control unit 31 proceeds to step S03.

[0077] In step S02, it is desirable for the control unit 31 to stop heating by the heater unit 30, exhaust by the exhaust unit 32, and air supply by the air supply unit 23. Alternatively, if the power consumption decreases, the system may temporarily stop the functions or transition to a so-called "sleep state" (a state where power consumption is low due to function limitations, etc.).

[0078] If there is no one in the lower space 25, it means that no one is using the sauna service. In this state, there is no need to replace the air in the lower space 25 (i.e., supply and exhaust air) or to heat the air. Therefore, the control unit 31 stops the functions of the heater unit 30, the exhaust unit 32, and the supply air unit 23 to reduce the amount of power consumed. In this way, the sauna device 1 can be made more energy-efficient.

[0079] In step S03, the control unit 31 acquires sensor data, such as temperature information, from sensors such as a temperature sensor. Note that the sensors are not limited to temperature sensors; they may also acquire sensor data related to humidity, etc., used for environmental management of the lower space 25. For example, it is desirable that the sensor be able to acquire the amount of carbon dioxide. Specifically, if the amount of carbon dioxide is high (for example, when used by a large number of people), it is desirable that air be supplied based on the sensor data of the amount of carbon dioxide.

[0080] In step S04, the control unit 31 determines whether the temperature is below a threshold. For example, the temperature is measured using sensor data. The threshold is set in advance.

[0081] Next, if it is determined that the temperature is not below the threshold (NO in step S04), the control unit 31 proceeds to step S06. On the other hand, if it is determined that the temperature is below the threshold (YES in step S04), the control unit 31 proceeds to step S05.

[0082] In step S05, the control unit 31 controls the heater unit 30 to continue heating. If the temperature is particularly low, and the heater unit 30 can be set not only to "ON / OFF" but also to "strength (there may be three or more levels)", the strength of the heating by the heater unit 30 may also be controlled according to the current temperature.

[0083] In step S06, the control unit 31 controls the heater unit 30 to reduce the heating.

[0084] In steps S04 to S06, the control unit 31 controls the temperature of the lower space 25 to be above a certain level. For example, if the threshold is set to 40°C, when the temperature of the lower space 25 falls below 40°C, heating is continued to raise the temperature above 40°C. On the other hand, if the temperature of the lower space 25 is not below 40°C, i.e., exceeds 40°C, the heating is reduced to prevent the temperature of the lower space 25 from becoming too high.

[0085] In step S07, the control unit 31 supplies air using the air supply unit 23. Exhaust may also be performed in conjunction with the air supply. Furthermore, the air supply and exhaust do not have to be performed continuously at all times; they may be performed at regular intervals, or controlled according to the environment by acquiring carbon dioxide (CO2) levels or other data from sensors.

[0086] Note that the overall processing is not limited to the example above. In other words, the overall processing may include additional processing other than that described above, or processing in a different order than described above.

[0087] [Effects in the first embodiment] As described above, when air is sent through the second pipe section 22 passing through the upper space 24, the air can be warmed by the warm air heated in the lower space 25. In the lower space 25, the air is mainly heated by the heater section 30. Once the air is heated and becomes warm air, it naturally rises. Therefore, the air that has passed through the upper space 24, which is located above the lower space 25, is sent to the opening 20 with its temperature increased by the warm air.

[0088] Thus, if the sauna device 1 is configured to use warm air to heat the air, less energy is required to heat the air compared to heating the air flowing in from the outside (i.e., air at the outside temperature). Therefore, the sauna device 1 with the above configuration can reduce the energy required to heat the air used in the sauna. In other words, the sauna device 1 can efficiently heat the air for use in the sauna service, thus achieving energy savings in the sauna service.

[0089] Specifically, this implementation configuration can achieve a power saving of approximately 5 to 10% compared to conventional sauna services. However, the power saving effect will vary depending on external environmental conditions such as the layout of the sauna, the temperature of the incoming air from the outside, and the insulation function of the sauna device 1.

[0090] [Modified version of ceiling section 16] Figure 6 shows a first modified example of the ceiling section 16. Figure 6 shows the ceiling section 16 viewed from the floor section 15 side.

[0091] The ceiling section 16 preferably has a configuration that includes, for example, a connecting section 161 and a blocking section 162.

[0092] The connecting section 161 is a through-hole that connects the lower space 25 and the upper space 24. Therefore, the location of the connecting section 161 is a space through which air can pass, and a space through which air rises from the lower space 25 to the upper space 24. With the connecting section 161 positioned appropriately in this way, warm air flows smoothly from the lower space 25 to the upper space 24.

[0093] The barrier section 162 is a member that separates the lower space 25 from the upper space 24.

[0094] The connecting section 161 and the blocking section 162 are realized, for example, by installing louvers or the like as the ceiling section 16. However, the material of the blocking section 162 may be metal or the like.

[0095] It is preferable that the connecting portion 161 and the blocking portion 162 are formed at equal intervals. Furthermore, it is preferable that the connecting portion 161 and the blocking portion 162 are formed at intervals of 40 millimeters to 60 millimeters.

[0096] When the ceiling 16 is flat or nearly flat, warm air often diffuses evenly in the X-Y plane. Therefore, it is desirable for the ceiling 16 to have connecting sections 161 throughout and evenly distributed. When the connecting sections 161 and blocking sections 162 are formed at equal intervals, the evenly generated warm air can flow from the lower space 25 to the upper space 24.

[0097] Furthermore, the distance between the connecting section 161 and the blocking section 162 should preferably be around 50 millimeters. If this distance is too wide, too much warm air will flow out from the lower space 25, making it difficult for the temperature of the lower space 25 to rise. Therefore, a distance of around 50 millimeters ensures that the lower space 25 retains heat well.

[0098] On the other hand, if the spacing is too narrow, warm air will have difficulty flowing from the lower space 25 to the upper space 24, and the effect of warming the air in the upper space 24 will be weakened. Therefore, a spacing of about 50 millimeters is sufficient to ensure adequate warm air to warm the air in the upper space 24.

[0099] The spacing between the connecting section 161 and the blocking section 162 should preferably have an opening ratio (the ratio of the area of ​​the connecting section 161 to the area of ​​the ceiling section 16) of 40% to 60%. In particular, an opening ratio of 50% to 55% is even more desirable. If the opening ratio is too high, the effect of blocking heat will be diminished. On the other hand, if the opening ratio is too low, not much air will flow into the upper space 24, and the effect of warming the air will be weakened. Therefore, with the above values, both heat retention and the effect of allowing air to flow appropriately into the upper space 24 can be achieved.

[0100] In the above example, the connecting portion 161 and the blocking portion 162 are formed in the Y-axis direction, but they may be formed in other directions. For example, the connecting portion 161 and the blocking portion 162 may be formed in the X-axis direction.

[0101] Figure 7 shows a second modified example of the ceiling section 16. Similar to Figure 6, Figure 7 shows the ceiling section 16 viewed from the floor section 15 side.

[0102] Compared to the first modified example, the second modified example differs in the shape of the connecting portion 161 and the blocking portion 162. Specifically, in the second modified example, the connecting portion 161 is concentrated in the center of the ceiling portion 16. On the other hand, in the second modified example, the blocking portions 162 are concentrated on all four sides of the ceiling portion 16.

[0103] For example, if the central part of the ceiling 16 is higher than the four sides (such as a so-called "triangular roof"), warm air tends to concentrate in the central part of the ceiling 16. Therefore, depending on the shape of the ceiling 16, a connecting section 161 may be formed in the area where warm air concentrates and accumulates.

[0104] In Figures 6 and 7, the connecting section 161 (shown in black in the figures; this is the so-called "cavity") allows air to pass through, while the blocking section 162 (shown in white in the figures) does not allow air to pass through.

[0105] [Second Embodiment] Figure 8 shows an example of the second embodiment. Compared to the first embodiment, the shape of the second pipe section 22 is different in the second embodiment. Hereafter, components identical to those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0106] Figure 9 shows a first example of the second pipe section 22 in the first embodiment. As shown in the figure, the second pipe section 22 may have a shape in which the height between the first end 221 and the second end 222 varies depending on the position in the Z-axis direction, i.e., the Y-axis direction, thereby forming a reciprocating path.

[0107] Thus, it is desirable that the second pipe section 22 is not straight, but rather has a shape that "serpentines" vertically in the direction of the Y-axis in the upper space 24.

[0108] Figure 10 shows a second example of the second pipe section 22 in the first embodiment. In the second example, a flexible duct is used as the second pipe section 22.

[0109] Using flexible ducts, for example, a return path can be formed in the Y-axis direction as shown in the figure. Hereafter, the direction of "+" in the Y-axis direction will be considered the forward path direction. Therefore, the first duct 41 and the third duct 43 become the forward ducts. On the other hand, the direction of "-" in the Y-axis direction will be considered the return path direction. Therefore, the second duct 42 becomes the return duct.

[0110] Using flexible ducts shortens the second component pipe (the part that forms the upper and lower flow paths in Figure 10). As a result, the forward ducts can be brought so close together that the forward duct wall and the return duct wall come into contact. Bringing the forward ducts so close together compresses the space in which the second pipe section 22 is installed (in this example, the Z-axis direction).

[0111] Hereafter, the surface where the outbound duct wall and the return duct wall come into contact will be referred to as the "contact surface 44". In this example, the upper wall of the first duct 41 and the lower wall of the second duct 42 come into contact to form the contact surface 44.

[0112] The presence of a contact surface 44 allows heat from the warm air to be transferred, resulting in a high heat retention effect. Furthermore, the more contact surface 44 is present, the smaller the gap between the first duct 41 and the second duct 42, thus preventing cold air from entering and cooling the air flowing through the second pipe section 22.

[0113] Thus, using flexible ducts can provide a high level of heat retention.

[0114] Figure 11 shows a third example of the second pipe section 22 in the first embodiment. As shown, the second pipe section 22 may have multiple paths.

[0115] In the third example, there are two locations that become the second end portion 222. That is, the third example is a configuration in which there are two air supply units 23, or a route that branches into two paths from the air supply unit 23 to the second end portion 222.

[0116] In the third example, the second pipe section 22 has two inflow sides and one outflow side, with a confluence point along the way. However, if there are two first pipe sections 21, the second pipe section 22 may also have two first end sections 221 (without a confluence point along the way).

[0117] Note that while the third example uses two paths, there may be three or more paths. Also, the multiple paths do not have to be the same shape.

[0118] Furthermore, the examples of the second pipe section 22 in the first and second embodiments may be combined embodiments. That is, the second pipe section 22 may have a shape that "serpentines" not only in one direction but in multiple directions.

[0119] [Modified example of the first pipe section 21] Figure 12 shows a first example of the first pipe section 21. For example, the first pipe section 21 has a shape and installation position such that air flows down from the first end 221 in the Z-axis direction, that is, from top to bottom.

[0120] In the first example, the first pipe section 21 is connected to the second pipe section 22 by its upper end 212 being connected to the first end 221, i.e., the second pipe section 22. The first pipe section 21 has a straight shape from top to bottom in the Z-axis direction from the upper end 212 to the lower end 211. Therefore, the first pipe section 21 has a curved shape at the upper end 212 portion that changes the flow of air from the first direction downward in the Z-axis direction, i.e., towards the position of the opening 20.

[0121] Next, the first pipe section 21 has a downward-sloping shape that allows air passing through the curved shape to descend from top to bottom. Note that the downward-sloping shape is not limited to a straight line, and may include a curved shape in between. Subsequently, the first pipe section 21 has a curved shape that changes the flow of air passing through the downward-sloping shape toward the opening 20.

[0122] In this first example, the opening 20 is located almost directly below the upper end 212.

[0123] Figure 13 shows a second example of the first pipe section 21. Compared to Figure 12, the shape of the first pipe section 21 is different. Specifically, in the second example, the first pipe section 21 is shaped to allow air to flow toward the third wall section 13.

[0124] The opening 20 may be provided in a location other than the fourth wall portion 14. In the second example, the opening 20 is located in the third wall portion 13. In this case, the first pipe portion 21 has a downward-sloping shape as in the first example, followed by a straight line shape toward the third wall portion 13, that is, a straight line shape from the second wall portion 12 toward the third wall portion 13.

[0125] Thus, the shape and length of the first pipe section 21 are not limited to those of the first end portion 221 and the opening 20, as they are aligned with the positions of the first end portion 221 and the opening 20.

[0126] [Differences in the second direction] Figure 14 shows a modified example in the second direction. Compared to Figure 3, Figure 14 shows a different shape for the second pipe section 22. The second direction can be any direction different from the first direction. Therefore, the second direction may be perpendicular to the first direction, or it may be at an angle other than perpendicular, i.e., any angle relative to the first direction.

[0127] Therefore, the air in the second pipe section 22 stays in the area from the second end 222 to the first end 221 for a longer period of time. And when air stays in the warm upper space 24 for a longer time, it can be warmed more effectively.

[0128] For example, the second direction should ideally be perpendicular to the first direction in the horizontal plane (XY plane) (although an angle of approximately ±5° is acceptable). When the first and second directions are perpendicular, piping installation is easier.

[0129] Furthermore, it is desirable that the second direction be 45°±5° (i.e., 40° to 50°) relative to the first direction in the horizontal plane (XY plane).

[0130] In the second direction, that is, in the second pipe section 22, the second member 2202, etc., should preferably have a shape that is angled in the horizontal plane. Piping is easier to install at angles such as 45°. Also, steep angles exceeding 90° may result in poor airflow.

[0131] On the other hand, at small angles of less than 10°, the airflow is nearly straight, and therefore the effect of increasing the distance the air travels, i.e., the time the air spends in the upper space 24, is small. Consequently, if the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction in the horizontal plane, or at an angle of 40° to 50°, installation is easier and the air can be warmed more effectively.

[0132] [Examples of control using AI (Artificial Intelligence)] The overall processing may include control by AI, for example. For instance, the AI ​​could be a pre-trained model that takes temperature sensor data and motion sensor data as input data and outputs the temperature control result (i.e., the target temperature) as training data. Therefore, the AI ​​uses the pre-trained model to take various sensor data as input and output temperature control. By controlling the temperature with such an AI, it is possible to maintain an optimal temperature that is appropriate for the number of people in the room.

[0133] [Other embodiments] Furthermore, each device does not necessarily have to be a single device. In other words, each device may be a combination of multiple devices.

[0134] The present invention may be implemented by a process for realizing the control method exemplified above, or by a control program (including firmware and programs equivalent to programs; hereinafter simply referred to as "program") that performs a process equivalent to the process described above.

[0135] In other words, the present invention may be implemented by a program written in a programming language or the like, which issues commands to a computer to obtain a predetermined result. The program may also be configured so that a part of the processing is executed by hardware such as an IC (integrated circuit).

[0136] A program causes the computer to perform the above-mentioned processes by having its arithmetic unit, control unit, and memory device work together. In other words, a program is loaded into main memory, issues commands to the arithmetic unit to perform calculations, and operates the computer.

[0137] Furthermore, the program may be provided on a computer-readable recording medium or via telecommunication lines such as a network.

[0138] The present invention may be implemented in a system composed of multiple devices. That is, an information processing system consisting of multiple computers may execute the above-described processes in a redundant, parallel, distributed, or combination thereof. Therefore, the present invention may be implemented in devices other than those described above, and in systems other than those described above.

[0139] [Contribution to promoting the SDGs] As described above, this embodiment improves the efficiency of energy use, such as electricity or gas, and achieves labor-saving effects. This reduces energy consumption, contributing to the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions, the achievement of carbon neutrality, the mitigation of global warming, and environmental protection. As a result, it contributes to the reduction of waste and the extension of lifespan, thereby contributing to SDGs such as "Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy" and "Goal 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts."

[0140] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments exemplified above. Therefore, the present invention can be modified by adding or changing components without departing from the technical spirit. Thus, all technical matters included in the technical concept described in the claims are covered by the present invention. The embodiments exemplified above are specific examples that are suitable for implementation. Furthermore, those skilled in the art can implement various modifications from the disclosed content, and such modifications are included in the technical scope described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0141] 1: Sauna equipment 10: Greenhouse 11: 1st wall part 12:Second wall part 13:Third wall part 14: 4th wall 15: Floor part 16: Ceiling 20: Opening 21: First Section 22: Second Section 23: Air supply section 24: Upper space 25: Lower space 30: Heater section 31: Control Unit 32: Exhaust section 41: First duct 42: Second duct 43: Third Duct 44: Contact surface 161:Communication part 162: Blocking section 211: Bottom edge 212:Top edge 221: First end 222: Second end 2201: First component 2202: Second component 2203: Third component 2204: Fourth member 2205: Fifth member

Claims

1. The floor surface and, A first wall portion perpendicular to the floor surface and forming a first wall, A second wall portion that is perpendicular to the first wall portion and perpendicular to the floor portion, A third wall portion that is perpendicular to the first wall portion and perpendicular to the floor surface portion, A fourth wall portion that is perpendicular to the third wall portion and perpendicular to the floor surface portion, A ceiling portion which forms the ceiling of the space enclosed by the first wall portion, the second wall portion, the third wall portion, and the fourth wall portion, An opening formed in any of the first wall portion, the second wall portion, the third wall portion, and the fourth wall portion, The opening and the lower end are connected, and a first pipe section flows air from above the ceiling section to the opening, The first end of the second pipe section is connected to the upper end of the first pipe section, and the second pipe section passes through the upper space which is the space above the ceiling section, An air supply section connected to the second end of the second pipe section, which allows air to flow into the second pipe section from the outside, A heater unit that warms the air flowing in from the opening, Control unit for controlling the heater unit and Equipped with, The aforementioned second pipe section is, A first component pipe that sends the air in the upper space from the air supply section toward the opening, It is configured by combining a second component pipe that delivers the air in a second direction different from the first direction. Sauna equipment.

2. The aforementioned ceiling section is The lower space enclosed by the floor, the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, the fourth wall, and the ceiling forms the boundary between the lower space and the upper space. A connecting section that connects the lower space and the upper space, It has a partition that separates the lower space and the upper space, The communication portion and the blocking portion are formed at equal intervals in either the first direction or the second direction. The sauna apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned communication portion and the aforementioned blocking portion are Formed at intervals of 40 to 60 millimeters The sauna apparatus according to claim 2.

4. A detection unit for detecting whether or not there is a person in the lower space enclosed by the floor, the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, the fourth wall, and the ceiling, An exhaust unit that exhausts air from the lower space to the outside world. Furthermore, The control unit, Based on the detection results from the detection unit, if it is detected that there is no person present, the heating unit stops heating. The aforementioned exhaust section is Stop the exhaust, The aforementioned air intake unit is Stop the air supply. The sauna apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The aforementioned second pipe section is, By combining the first and second constituent tubes, In the upper space, a reciprocating path is formed to cause the air to move back and forth in the second direction. In the aforementioned return path, the air is heated by warm air flowing from the lower space enclosed by the floor, the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, the fourth wall, and the ceiling to the upper space. The sauna apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The first component tube and the second component tube are, It is a flexible duct, A return path is formed in the first direction or the second direction. Of the aforementioned return paths, the return duct wall that constitutes the return duct that sends the air in the return direction, Of the aforementioned round-trip paths, the return duct wall that constitutes the return duct that sends the air in the return direction comes into contact with the return duct wall. The sauna apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The second direction is, In the horizontal plane, an angle perpendicular to the first direction. The sauna apparatus according to claim 1.

8. The second direction is, In the horizontal plane, the angle is 40° to 50° with respect to the first direction. The sauna apparatus according to claim 1.

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