Air conditioning equipment and air conditioning system

Abstract

This reduces the effort required to set the operating timer information for air conditioning systems. [Solution] The air conditioning system of the embodiment is an air conditioning system capable of setting multiple operating schedules as operating timer information in a predetermined time cycle, and includes a control unit that, when operation is started at the operating start time included in the first operating time information based on first operating time information including at least the start time of operation and first operating timer information including predetermined operating conditions at the start of operation, starts operating the air conditioning system in accordance with the predetermined operating conditions, and when operation is started at the operating start time included in the second operating time information based on second operating timer information consisting only of second operating time information including at least the start time of operation, starts operating the air conditioning system in accordance with operating history conditions stored in the storage unit as operating history.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an air conditioner and an air conditioning system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an air conditioner (air conditioner) capable of setting each of a plurality of operation schedules as operation timer information in a predetermined time period (for example, one week) has been known. The operation timer information includes items such as an operation start time, an operation end time, and predetermined operation conditions (operation mode (cooling, heating, etc.), temperature, etc.).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] As described above, by including operation conditions such as an operation mode and a temperature in the operation timer information in addition to the operation start time and the operation end time, the convenience of the user is improved in that detailed operation conditions can be set.

[0005] However, every time the operation timer information is set, it is necessary to set detailed operation conditions, which is troublesome.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner and an air conditioning system capable of reducing the trouble involved in setting the operation timer information of the air conditioner.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The air conditioning system of the embodiment is an air conditioning system capable of setting multiple operating schedules as operating timer information for each of a predetermined time period, and comprises a first operating time information including at least an operating start time, and a control unit that, when operation is started at the operating start time included in the first operating time information based on the first operating timer information including predetermined operating conditions at the start of operation, starts operating the air conditioning system in accordance with the predetermined operating conditions, and when operation is started at the operating start time included in the second operating time information based on second operating timer information consisting only of second operating time information including at least an operating start time, starts operating the air conditioning system in accordance with operating history conditions stored in the storage unit as operating history.

[0008] Furthermore, the first operating timer information includes a time-of-day operating mode in which first operating time information, including the start time and end time of operation, is set. If the time-of-day operating mode is set as the first operating timer information, it is possible to set operating timer information other than the first operating timer information, even if it is before the end time of operation of the time-of-day operating mode.

[0009] Furthermore, the predetermined operating conditions include a cleaning mode in which the air conditioner unit is cleaned for a predetermined period of time, and if the cleaning mode is set as the predetermined operating conditions in the first operating timer information, it is not possible to set any other operating timer information between the start time and end time of the cleaning mode.

[0010] Furthermore, the operation timer information can be set to an enabled or disabled state, and if multiple operation timer information sets, all of the operation timer information can be set to an enabled or disabled state at once.

[0011] Furthermore, if multiple operating timer information sets are configured, the operating conditions for all of the operating timer information can be set to predetermined conditions at once.

[0012] Furthermore, even when setting operating conditions for multiple operating timer information at once, the operating conditions for operating timer information that include a cleaning mode for a predetermined period of time to clean the main body of the air conditioner will not be changed.

[0013] Furthermore, the aforementioned operating history conditions are the operating history that was last stored in the storage unit.

[0014] Furthermore, the air conditioning system of the embodiment comprises an air conditioning device capable of setting multiple operating schedules as operating timer information in a predetermined time cycle, and a terminal device for performing operations on the air conditioning device, wherein the air conditioning device, in response to an operation by the terminal device, starts operation of the air conditioning device in accordance with the predetermined operating conditions when operation is started at the operating start time included in the first operating time information, based on first operating time information including at least an operating start time, and first operating timer information including predetermined operating conditions at the start of operation, and starts operation of the air conditioning device in accordance with the predetermined operating conditions when operation is started at the operating start time included in the second operating time information, based on second operating timer information consisting only of second operating time information including at least an operating start time, and starts operation of the air conditioning device in accordance with operating history conditions stored in the storage unit as an operating history.

[0015] The above-described air conditioning devices and air conditioning systems can reduce the effort required to set the operating schedule for the air conditioning devices. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an overall diagram of the air conditioning system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the indoor unit of the air conditioning system according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the indoor unit during operation according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of an indoor unit of an air conditioner according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a server according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a terminal device according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a first screen example according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a second screen example according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a third screen example according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a fourth screen example according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a fifth screen example according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a sixth screen example according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a seventh screen example according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an eighth screen example according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a ninth screen example according to an embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a tenth screen example according to an embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an eleventh screen example according to an embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a twelfth screen example according to an embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a thirteenth screen example according to an embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a fourteenth screen example according to an embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a sequence diagram showing processing by an air conditioner according to an embodiment.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0017] Embodiments of the air conditioning apparatus and air conditioning system of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this specification, components of embodiments and descriptions of those components may be expressed in multiple ways. Components and their descriptions are examples and are not limited by the expressions of this specification. Components may also be identified by names different from those used in this specification. Components may also be described by expressions different from those used in this specification. Furthermore, in the following, the terms "first," "second," and "third" preceding terms are expressions for convenience to distinguish between terms and do not limit their meaning.

[0018] <Air Conditioning System 1> Figure 1 is an overall configuration diagram of the air conditioning system 1 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the air conditioning system 1 comprises an air conditioning device 10, a terminal device 100, and a server 200.

[0019] The air conditioning unit 10 and the terminal device 100 are each connected to the server 200 via a wide-area network (NW), such as the Internet. Alternatively, the air conditioning unit 10 and the terminal device 100 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with each other via a communication adapter (not shown). Furthermore, the air conditioning unit 10 and the terminal device 100 may be configured to communicate via a wired connection via a communication cable, such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable.

[0020] The air conditioning system 10 comprises an indoor unit 11 and an outdoor unit (not shown). The air conditioning system 10 can set multiple operating schedules as operating timer information for each of them within a predetermined time cycle (e.g., one week). The operating timer information is information for realizing the timer function of the air conditioning system 10 and includes items such as the start time of operation, the end time of operation, and predetermined operating conditions (operating mode (cooling, heating, etc.), temperature, etc.).

[0021] The terminal device 100 is a means for operating the air conditioning system 10. The terminal device 100 is composed of, for example, a high-function mobile phone such as a smartphone or tablet, and includes at least a communication unit 304 (Figure 6) for communicating with various external devices. The terminal device 100 also includes a display unit 302 and an operation unit 303.

[0022] Server 200 is comprised of a well-known computer system. Server 200 stores various information, such as information for accessing the air conditioning unit 10 and terminal device 100 (e.g., IP (Internet Protocol) addresses), and various computer programs, including application software.

[0023] <Air conditioning system 10> Next, we will describe the details of the air conditioning system 10.

[0024] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the indoor unit 11 of the air conditioning system 10 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the indoor unit 11 of the air conditioning system 10 is located inside a building and is connected to an outdoor unit located outside via refrigerant piping and electrical wiring. Note that the air conditioning system 10 is not limited to this example.

[0025] The indoor unit 11 includes a housing 21, a heat exchanger 22, a fan 23, a filter 24, two air deflectors 25, a ventilation member 26, and left and right air deflectors (not shown). The air deflectors 25, left and right air deflectors, and ventilation member 26 may also be referred to as louvers.

[0026] The housing 21 is formed in a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape. The housing 21 is provided with an air passage 31, an intake port 32, and an outlet port 33.

[0027] The indoor unit 11 can pass air (airflow) through the air passage 31. The intake port 32 is provided at one end of the air passage 31 and connects the air passage 31 to the outside of the indoor unit 11. The outlet port 33 is provided at the other end of the air passage 31 and connects the air passage 31 to the outside of the indoor unit 11. In other words, the air passage 31 is provided inside the housing 21 between the intake port 32 and the outlet port 33.

[0028] The heat exchanger 22 is installed in the air passage 31. The heat exchanger 22 has, for example, refrigerant piping and a plurality of fins. The heat exchanger 22 exchanges heat with the surrounding gas in the air passage 31. As a result, the heat exchanger 22 cools the air flowing through the air passage 31 during cooling operation and heats the air flowing through the air passage 31 during heating operation.

[0029] The fan 23 sends conditioned air into the room. The filter 24 is located near the intake port 32 in the air passage 31. The filter 24 is located upstream of the heat exchanger 22. The filter 24 covers the intake port 32 from inside the housing 21. The filter 24 filters the air drawn in from the intake port 32, for example, and captures dust particles in the air.

[0030] The air conditioning unit 10 performs air conditioning treatment on the air drawn in from the room and blows the treated conditioned air (wind) back into the room. Air conditioning treatment includes, for example, heat absorption treatment (cooling operation), heating treatment (heating operation), dehumidification treatment (dehumidification operation), fan operation (fan operation), and air purification treatment (air purification operation). Each of the heat absorption treatment, heating treatment, dehumidification treatment, fan operation, and air purification treatments corresponds to the operating modes (main operating modes) of the air conditioning unit 10: cooling operation mode, heating operation mode, dehumidification operation mode, fan operation mode, and air purification operation mode.

[0031] In addition, the operating modes may include other modes such as AI (Artificial Intelligence) comfort mode and cleaning mode. The AI ​​comfort mode is an operating mode that detects the surrounding conditions (temperature, etc.) using various sensors and automatically switches between cooling and heating, as well as automatically performs other settings and operations.

[0032] Furthermore, the cleaning mode is an operating mode for cleaning the air conditioning unit 10. The cleaning mode is an example of a time-based operating mode in which first operating time information, including the start time and end time of operation, is set. Specifically, the cleaning mode includes, for example, a condensation water generation step in which condensation water is generated on the heat exchanger 22, an air purification step in which dust contained in the air is charged and collected by an air purification unit (not shown), and a drying step in which the temperature of the heat exchanger 22 is raised to dry it, and these steps are performed in this order.

[0033] Furthermore, the air conditioning system 10 is equipped with a radar control mode in addition to the operating mode, and can be operated in combination with the operating mode. The radar control mode includes a radar airflow direction mode and a radar airflow avoidance mode. In other words, in the radar control mode, the air conditioning system 10 can select any of the following modes: cooling operation mode, heating operation mode, dehumidification operation mode, AI comfort operation mode, and air purification operation mode.

[0034] Furthermore, in addition to the operating mode and radar control mode, the air conditioning unit 10 also has a windless mode (registered trademark). The windless mode can be arbitrarily combined with the operating mode and radar control mode. The windless mode is a mode that generates turbulent air that diffuses over a wide area by mixing two types of airflow velocities when blowing out conditioned air. As a result, the air conditioning unit 10 generates a natural breeze (wind that feels like no wind).

[0035] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the indoor unit 11 during operation according to the embodiment. The two air deflectors 25 are provided near the air outlet 33. The air deflectors 25 are located downstream of the fan 23.

[0036] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the indoor unit 11 of the air conditioning system 10 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the indoor unit 11 includes a control device 80, a first drive circuit 81, a second drive circuit 82, a third drive circuit 83, a fan motor 84, two air deflector motors 85 and 86, a switching motor 87, a notification unit 90, a Doppler radar 91, and a communication unit 94. The indoor unit 11 may have other configurations.

[0037] The control device 80, the first drive circuit 81, the second drive circuit 82, the third drive circuit 83, the fan motor 84, the wind vane motors 85, 86, the switching motor 87, the notification unit 90, the Doppler radar 91, and the communication unit 94 are housed in the casing 21.

[0038] The control device 80 includes, for example, a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a storage device such as ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), or flash memory. The control device 80 performs various controls on the air conditioning system 10 by, for example, executing a program stored in the ROM. Note that the control device 80 is not limited to this example.

[0039] The control device 80 comprises an operation control unit 80a and an information provision unit 80b as functional units. These functional units are realized by a processor reading and executing a program from ROM. The operation control unit 80a controls the operation of the air conditioner 10 based on operation timer information. The information provision unit 80b can provide (transmit) various types of information to the terminal device 100 and the server 200. These types of information include, for example, current operation setting information.

[0040] The control device 80 is connected, for example, to the first drive circuit 81, the second drive circuit 82, the third drive circuit 83, the notification unit 90, and the communication unit 94. The control device 80 also receives detection results from various sensors, such as the Doppler radar 91.

[0041] The first drive circuit 81 is the drive circuit for the fan motor 84. The fan motor 84 rotates the fan 23. The control device 80 controls the first drive circuit 81 to perform forward rotation control (control to release air from the outlet 33) or reverse rotation control of the fan motor 84 and the fan 23.

[0042] The second drive circuit 82 is a drive circuit for two wind vane motors 85 and 86. The wind vane motors 85 and 86 each rotate the corresponding wind vane 25. The control device 80 controls the wind vane motors 85 and 86 and the wind vanes 25A and 25B by controlling the second drive circuit 82.

[0043] The third drive circuit 83 is the drive circuit for the switching motor 87. The switching motor 87 rotates the ventilation member 26. The control device 80 controls the switching motor 87 and the ventilation member 26 by controlling the third drive circuit 83. This makes it possible to switch the ventilation member 26 between a position that partially blocks the outlet 33 and a position that partially does not block the outlet 33. In this embodiment, when the ventilation member 26 is switched to a position that partially blocks the outlet 33, it is housed in a recess in the flow path that constitutes the outlet 33.

[0044] The ventilation member 26 is formed in a plate shape along the width direction of the outlet 33, and is provided with multiple ventilation openings on its inner and outer surfaces 52. In the windless mode, as shown in Figure 3, the ventilation member 26 is repositioned to block a portion of the outlet 33 (specifically, the upper air passage of the outlet 33 partitioned by the wind deflector 25A). As a result, the air flowing through a portion of the outlet 33 passes through multiple ventilation openings before being blown out. In other words, the ventilation member 26, which blocks a portion of the outlet 33, is inserted into the upper air passage of the outlet 33 partitioned by the wind deflector 25A, changing the opening ratio of this portion. This increases the airflow velocity of the air passing through the ventilation member 26.

[0045] On the other hand, the other part of the outlet 33 in which the ventilation member 26 is not inserted (specifically, the lower air passage of the outlet 33 partitioned by the wind deflector 25A) maintains its opening ratio. The air flowing through this other part of the outlet 33 and the air flowing through a part of the outlet 33 are adjacent to each other and therefore interfere with each other. As these winds collide with each other, they generate a mixed wind that diffuses over a wide area (a so-called windless wind).

[0046] Furthermore, the control device 80 receives detection results from various sensors sequentially, and the control device 80 reflects the input detection results in each control.

[0047] The Doppler radar 91 emits electromagnetic waves (such as light) or ultrasonic waves and detects the reflected waves that are reflected back by objects (such as living organisms). The Doppler radar 91 is used to detect objects present in the room where the indoor unit 11 is installed. Detectable objects include living organisms such as people and animals, objects such as furniture, and walls. For example, the air conditioner 10 can recognize (determine) a moving object in the room as a living organism based on the detection results of the Doppler radar 91. If a detected object enters the room, the air conditioner 10 can recognize the object as a living organism by detecting its entry and reflect this in the control of the indoor unit 11.

[0048] The air conditioning system 10 has a radar-guided wind mode and a radar-guided wind avoidance mode. When the user selects either the radar-guided wind mode or the radar-guided wind avoidance mode, the control device 80 uses the results of the Doppler radar 91 to detect living organisms and executes these modes. In the radar-guided wind mode, the control device 80 moves the wind vane 25 and the left and right wind vanes toward the location of the living organism to direct the wind towards it. In the radar-guided wind avoidance mode, the control device 80 moves the wind vane 25 and the left and right wind vanes toward the location of the living organism to avoid directing the wind towards it.

[0049] The notification unit 90 notifies the user of various conditions inside the room using lights and sounds.

[0050] The communication unit 94 transmits and receives wireless signals using electromagnetic waves, such as infrared rays, to and from the remote controller 94a, for example. For example, the communication unit 94 transmits instruction signals from the remote controller 94a to the control device 80. The remote controller 94a is a device used for user operation of the air conditioning system 10. The communication unit 94 may also be capable of transmitting and receiving wireless signals using electromagnetic waves to and from the terminal device 100, for example.

[0051] Furthermore, the control device 80, based on first operating time information including at least the start time of operation and first operating timer information (for example, obtained from the server 200) including predetermined operating conditions at the start of operation, starts operating the air conditioner 10 according to the predetermined operating conditions when it decides to start operation at the start time included in the first operating time information. That is, if the first operating timer information includes predetermined operating conditions along with the start time of operation included in the first operating time information, the air conditioner 10 starts operating according to the predetermined operating conditions when the start time of operation arrives. If the air conditioner 10 is already in operation, it changes its operating conditions to the predetermined operating conditions in the first operating timer information and continues operation. In this way, continuing operation is also included in starting the operation of the air conditioner 10 according to the operating conditions.

[0052] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the operation timer information for which the start time of operation is set may be referred to as the "on timer," and the operation timer information for which the end time of operation is set may be referred to as the "off timer."

[0053] Furthermore, if the control device 80 decides to start operation at the start time included in the second operation time information, based on second operation timer information (for example, obtained from the server 200) which consists of at least the start time of operation, it starts operating the air conditioner 10 according to the operation history conditions stored as operation history in the storage unit (for example, the control device 80).

[0054] The aforementioned driving history conditions are, for example, the last driving conditions, which are the driving history most recently stored in the memory unit, but are not limited to these. Alternatively, the average value of the driving history over a predetermined period may be used as the driving history conditions. In the following, we will mainly use the last driving conditions as an example to explain the driving history conditions.

[0055] For example, if the second operating timer information is set to include the start time included in the second operating time information, but no operating conditions are set, the air conditioner 10 will start operating according to the last operating conditions when the start time included in the second operating time information arrives. In this case, if the air conditioner 10 is operating at the start time included in the second operating time information, the control device 80 will continue the operation without changing the operating conditions, because the operating conditions are stored in the memory as the last operating conditions at the start of operation or when the operating conditions are changed. Also, if the air conditioner 10 is stopped at the start time included in the second operating time information, the control device 80 will start operation according to the last operating conditions. Thus, continuing the operation without changing the operating conditions is also included in starting the operation of the air conditioner 10 according to the last operating conditions.

[0056] Furthermore, to set a second operating timer information consisting of at least the second operating time information including the start time, one can, for example, select "Do not set" in area R71 of Figure 11 (details will be described later). Alternatively, by operating the "OK" button in area R72 with nothing selected in area R71 of Figure 11, it may be possible to set a second operating timer information consisting of at least the second operating time information including the start time. In this case, the setting may be changed to the state where "Do not set" is selected in area R71, or the operating mode may become "blank". In addition, a symbol such as "-" may be displayed to indicate that no specific operating conditions have been selected. Furthermore, if software (app) that originally only allowed the setting of operating timer information consisting of the start time is updated to a specification that allows the setting of operating conditions, it may be possible to set the default to "Do not set" or "blank". In this way, no operating conditions are selected, that is, the second operating timer information consisting of at least the second operating time information including the start time has been set.

[0057] The last operating conditions may be stored in the memory of the air conditioner 10, the terminal device 100, or the server 200. In this embodiment, the last operating conditions are assumed to be stored in the memory (control device 80) of the air conditioner 10.

[0058] Furthermore, the operation timer information (first operation timer information, second operation timer information) may be stored in the storage unit of the air conditioner 10, the terminal device 100, or the server 200. In this embodiment, the operation timer information is assumed to be stored in the storage unit 203 of the server 200.

[0059] If the server 200's memory unit 203 stores operation timer information consisting only of the start time, then, for example, at the start time, only the ON information (start time information) is transmitted from the server 200 to the air conditioner 10. Upon receiving only the ON information, the air conditioner 10 starts operation using the last operating conditions stored in the control device 80 (for example, operating mode (cooling, heating, etc.), set temperature, etc.). If the last operating conditions are stored in the terminal device 100 or the server 200, then the last operating conditions are also transmitted to the air conditioner 10 in addition to the ON information (start time information).

[0060] Furthermore, the last operating conditions and operating timer information may be stored in the same memory unit.

[0061] Furthermore, the operating timer information may include only the operating start time, only the operating end time, or both the operating start time and the operating end time.

[0062] Furthermore, the specified operating conditions include a cleaning mode (such as automatic filter cleaning, air purification operation, and drying operation) which is an operating mode that performs operations related to cleaning the main body of the air conditioner 10 for a specified period of time.

[0063] Furthermore, the first operating timer information includes a time-of-day operating mode in which the first operating time information, including the start time and end time of operation, is set. When a time-of-day operating mode is set as the first operating timer information, it may be possible to set operating timer information other than the first operating timer information even before the end time of operation of that time-of-day operating mode.

[0064] For example, if the time-based operation mode is set to cleaning mode, it may be possible to set timer information for operation modes other than cleaning mode even before the end time of the cleaning mode operation. In other words, it may be possible to set other operation modes even during the scheduled operation time of cleaning mode.

[0065] The operating time for the cleaning mode is approximately 145 minutes. This is broken down as follows: filter cleaning takes about 30 minutes, cooling cleaning about 70 minutes, air purification and ventilation about 15 minutes, heating and drying about 15 minutes, and ventilation about 15 minutes. The total cleaning time will vary depending on the conditions, etc., as the heating and drying time will change. For example, it can be set to a maximum of 145 minutes. In this case, when the cleaning mode on timer is set, the system will end after 145 minutes even if an off timer is not set. In this case, the control unit 312 will allow other operating modes to be set even if it is within 145 minutes from the start time of the cleaning mode. For example, it is possible to set cooling operation 5 minutes after the start of the cleaning mode. Note that the cleaning mode is not limited to the cleaning described above, and any type of cleaning is acceptable. For example, the cleaning mode is not limited to a mode that cleans the air conditioner 10 itself, but may be a mode that cleans the space in which the air conditioner 10 is located. For example, it may be a cleaning that generates ions, etc., to disinfect the space in which the air conditioner 10 is located.

[0066] Furthermore, if another operating timer is activated while the cleaning mode is running, the device will forcibly switch to the other operating mode. This is the same as when the operating mode is switched manually (using the remote control) while the cleaning mode is running.

[0067] Furthermore, it may be possible to prevent the setting of other operation timer information between the start time and end time of the cleaning mode. However, in this case, the end time may refer not only to the end time of the entire operation of the cleaning mode, but also to the end time of a part of the operation of the cleaning mode.

[0068] Specifically, for example, if the cleaning mode is set to a maximum of 145 minutes, it may be possible to prevent other operating modes from being set during the 145 minutes when the cleaning mode is completed. Alternatively, it may be possible to prevent other operating modes from being set during the first 30 minutes when only the filter cleaning is completed.

[0069] Furthermore, the operating timer information may include multiple first operating timers with different start times, and / or multiple second operating timers with different end times.

[0070] Furthermore, the operating timer information can be set to either an enabled or disabled state, and if multiple operating timers are set, all of them can be set to either an enabled or disabled state at once.

[0071] For example, each of the multiple operating timer settings can be individually enabled or disabled (e.g., area R25 in Figure 7(b)), and they can also be enabled or disabled all at once (e.g., Figures 18(a) and 18(c)). The enable / disable setting can be changed by tapping the toggle switch on the screen.

[0072] Furthermore, if multiple operating timer information is set, the operating conditions for all of the operating timer information can be set to a predetermined condition all at once. For example, the operating conditions for multiple operating timer information can be set separately (for example, in the areas R43 to R49 in Figure 9(c)), as well as all at once (for example, in Figures 18(a) and 18(b)).

[0073] The time range (target) for the batch setting (change) could, for example, be the operating timer information for all time slots on all days of the week, or it could be the operating timer information for all time slots belonging to a particular day of the week.

[0074] Furthermore, even when setting operating conditions for multiple operating timer information at once, the operating conditions for operating timer information that include cleaning mode may be kept unchanged.

[0075] <Server 200> Next, we will explain server 200.

[0076] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server 200 in the embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the server 200 includes a control unit 201, a communication unit 202, a storage unit 203, and a timing unit 204.

[0077] The control unit 201 is implemented using a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. The CPU performs various controls and calculations on the server 200 by, for example, executing a program stored in the ROM.

[0078] The communication unit 202 is an element that realizes communication functions for communicating with external devices. In the server 200 of this embodiment, the communication unit 202 establishes communication with the air conditioning unit 10 and the terminal device 100.

[0079] The storage unit 203 is composed of an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), etc. The storage unit 203 stores various kinds of information and data.

[0080] The timekeeping unit 204 measures the time (date and time).

[0081] <Terminal device 100> Next, we will describe the terminal device 100.

[0082] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the terminal device 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 6, the terminal device 100 includes a processing unit 301, a display unit 302, an operation unit 303, and a communication unit 304. The display unit 302, the operation unit 303, and the communication unit 304 are connected to the processing unit 301.

[0083] The processing unit 301 is implemented by a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. The CPU performs various controls and calculations on the terminal device 100 by, for example, executing a program stored in ROM.

[0084] The display unit 302 is composed of a display device such as a liquid crystal panel.

[0085] The operation unit 303 consists of a touch panel switch formed on the display screen of the display unit 302, mechanical switches provided around the display unit 302, and the like.

[0086] The communication unit 304 is an element that realizes communication functions for communicating with external devices. In the terminal device 100 of this embodiment, the communication unit 304 establishes communication with the server 200. Alternatively, a communication line may be established between the terminal device 100 and the air conditioner 10 to enable communication between the terminal device 100 and the air conditioner 10.

[0087] The processing unit 301 has a functional configuration that includes an acquisition unit 311 and a control unit 312.

[0088] The acquisition unit 311 acquires various types of information. For example, the acquisition unit 311 acquires the current operating settings information of the air conditioner 10 from the air conditioner 10 via the server 200.

[0089] The control unit 312 performs various controls. For example, the control unit 312 displays various information on the display unit 302. The control unit 312 also instructs the air conditioner 10 via the server 200 to operate according to the contents of the operation timer information.

[0090] The following describes examples of screens in the terminal device 100 with reference to Figures 7 to 20. Figure 7(a) is an example of a screen when the daily view is selected on the weekly timer screen. The user can select between a daily view (Figure 7(a)) that displays the operating schedule information for one day of the week, and a weekly view (Figure 7(b)) that displays the operating schedule information for each day of the week, in area R12 (area R22). Also, in the screens of Figures 7(a) and 7(b), not all information is displayed at once; all information can be displayed by scrolling up and down. However, this is not the only option, and depending on the screen size, aspect ratio (width-to-height ratio), and resolution, all information may be displayed on the screen at once.

[0091] Area R11 displays various information such as communication status, current time, and battery level.

[0092] Area R12 displays a screen where you can select between a daily view and a weekly view. Also, clicking the "x" on the right will return you to the air conditioner control screen.

[0093] Area R13 displays the days from Sunday to Saturday, with the currently selected day (Wednesday in this case) highlighted. The user can switch between days by touching (selecting) the desired day. Settings for the selected day are also displayed in a time bar; that is, the operating schedule information for the selected day is displayed. The operating schedule information includes at least the "on" / "off" information for the air conditioner 10 and the time information for when it is performed. In addition, information regarding the operating mode, radar control mode, windless mode, etc., can also be included in the operating schedule information and displayed in area R13.

[0094] Area R14 displays, from left to right, an "Add Weekly Timer" button, a "Batch Change" button, and a "Duplicate" button. The user can add weekly timers to the selected days of the week by using the "Add Weekly Timer" button. The number of weekly timers that can be added is limited to six per day. Hereafter, weekly timers will also be simply referred to as "timers."

[0095] Additionally, by operating the batch change button, users can change the on-timer settings for all operating modes except cleaning mode all at once (however, this option cannot be selected if there are no on-timers set). Furthermore, by operating the duplicate button, users can duplicate (copy) all timer settings for the selected day of the week to other days of the week.

[0096] Area R15 displays timer setting information for configuring the operation schedule (details will be provided later).

[0097] Area R16 displays, from left to right, the air conditioner control buttons, the weekly timer button, and the timer button.

[0098] Figure 7(b) shows an example screen when the weekly view is selected. Areas R21, R22, R24, and R26 are the same as areas R11, R12, R14, and R16, respectively.

[0099] Area R23 displays the operating schedule information for all days of the week, from Sunday to Saturday. Within each 24-hour display, the darker colored time slots indicate the time periods during which timer operation takes place. When the user selects any day of the week (in this case, Wednesday), the selected day is highlighted, and the timer setting information for that day is displayed in Area R25. Note that the timer setting information displayed in Area R25 is the same as that in Area R15, so no further explanation is provided.

[0100] In Figure 7(b), the operating schedule information for one week is displayed in area R23, but this is not limited to this. For example, operating schedule information for three days or two weeks may also be displayed. Furthermore, the number of days for which the operating schedule is displayed may be set.

[0101] Next, Figure 8 shows a second example screen of the embodiment. In the following, explanations of areas that are the same as those already described will be omitted as appropriate.

[0102] In region R35, the timer shown in region R36 is ON (enabled), and the timer shown in region R37 is OFF (disabled). Furthermore, among the timers shown in region R36, for example, in the timer shown in region R38, region A1 indicates the operating mode, region A2 indicates the set temperature (however, this cannot be set in air purification mode, fan mode, cleaning mode, etc.), region A3 indicates the set air volume (for example, 6 types including 5 levels and automatic), and region A4 indicates additional functions (for example, radar control mode, windless mode, etc. can be set in cooling mode, heating mode, etc.).

[0103] Each timer shown in area R36 can be switched from "on" to "off," and when in the "on" state, it can be edited (settings changed) by tapping it. On the other hand, each timer shown in area R37 can be switched from "off" to "on," but when in the "off" state, tapping it does not produce any response and the timer cannot be edited.

[0104] Next, Figure 9 shows a third example screen of the embodiment. When you tap the add button (area R14 in Figure 7(a), area R24 in Figure 7(b)) as shown in (a), or when you select an individual on timer as shown in (b), the timer setting screen shown in (c) is displayed.

[0105] In the timer setting screen shown in (c), tapping areas R44 to R48 will transition to the setting screen for each item. Area R49 also displays a cancel button and a save button. Pressing the cancel button will cancel this screen and return to the previous screen. Pressing the save button will save the settings.

[0106] When area R44 is tapped on the timer setting screen shown in Figure 9(c), the user transitions to the time setting screen shown in Figure 10. On the screen in Figure 10, the user can select the timer time in area R61. The timer time can then be confirmed by operating the OK button in area R62. After that, the user returns to the previous screen. To cancel, the user will return to the previous screen by operating the cancel button.

[0107] When area R45 is tapped on the timer setting screen shown in Figure 9(c), the user transitions to the operating mode setting screen shown in Figure 11. On the screen in Figure 11, the user can select an operating mode in area R71. If "Do not set" is selected, the air conditioner 10 will start operating according to the last operating conditions stored in the memory unit (e.g., control device 80) when starting operation based on that operating timer information.

[0108] Furthermore, in area R72, you can select the operating mode by operating the confirm button. After that, you will return to the previous screen. If you want to cancel, you can return to the previous screen by operating the cancel button. Note that instead of the air purification mode, you can also select the simple air-blowing mode as the operating mode to be selected on the screen in Figure 11.

[0109] As shown in Figure 12(a), when the operating mode (area R84) is set to air purification on the timer setting screen, the temperature cannot be set. Therefore, as shown in area R85, the message "Cannot set" is displayed for the temperature, the setting is grayed out, and operation is disabled.

[0110] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12(b), when the operating mode (area R94) is set to AI automatic on the timer setting screen, the airflow is automatically fixed. Therefore, as shown in area R96, the airflow setting is displayed as "Automatic," grayed out, and cannot be operated.

[0111] When area R46 is tapped on the timer setting screen shown in Figure 9(c), the user transitions to the temperature setting screen shown in Figure 13. On the screen in Figure 13, the user can select a temperature in area R101. The user can then confirm the temperature by operating the OK button in area R102. After that, the user returns to the previous screen. To cancel, the user will return to the previous screen by operating the cancel button.

[0112] As shown in Figure 14, if the operating mode (area R114) on the timer setting screen is set to air purification, the temperature cannot be set. Therefore, as shown in area R115, the temperature setting will be displayed as "Not set" and grayed out, making it impossible to operate.

[0113] When area R47 is tapped on the timer setting screen shown in Figure 9(c), the screen transitions to the airflow setting screen shown in Figure 15. On the screen in Figure 15, the user can select the airflow (6 types: 5 levels and automatic) in area R121. The user can then confirm the airflow by operating the OK button in area R122. After that, the screen returns to the previous screen. To cancel, the user can operate the cancel button to return to the previous screen.

[0114] When area R48 is tapped on the timer setting screen shown in Figure 9(c), the user transitions to the additional function setting screen shown in Figure 16. On the screen in Figure 16, the user can select an additional function (for example, select only one) in areas R131 to R134. The user can then confirm the additional function by operating the OK button in area R135. After that, the user returns to the previous screen. To cancel, the user will return to the previous screen by operating the cancel button.

[0115] There are two energy-saving modes: energy-saving cooling mode and energy-saving heating mode. Energy-saving cooling mode is a mode that saves energy while maintaining the comfort of the body by, for example, using the detection results of a biosensor to send cool air towards the body and slightly raising the set temperature. Energy-saving heating mode is a mode that saves energy while maintaining the comfort of the body by, for example, using the detection results of a biosensor to send warm air towards the body and slightly lowering the set temperature.

[0116] Furthermore, the weak cooling mode is a mode that achieves weak cooling operation by controlling the compressor (not shown) of the outdoor unit (not shown) to operate at a constant speed, while the heat exchanger 22 of the indoor unit 11 functions as an evaporator and the heat exchanger of the outdoor unit (not shown) functions as a condenser.

[0117] Furthermore, the circulator mode is a mode that gently circulates the air while blowing air by making the louvers perform a predetermined swinging motion.

[0118] Next, Figure 17 shows the timer setting screen when the off timer (area R142) is selected. By tapping area R143, you can select the time (similar to Figure 10). Also, as shown in area R144, all items other than the time are grayed out and cannot be operated.

[0119] Next, we will explain the batch change operation with reference to Figure 18. As shown in Figure 18(a), tapping the batch change button (area R24 in Figure 7(b)) will take you to the batch operation screens shown in Figures 18(b) and 18(c). Also, operating the "On / Off" button on the screen in Figure 18(b) will switch you to the screen in Figure 18(c). Furthermore, operating the "Operation Settings" button on the screen in Figure 18(c) will switch you back to the screen in Figure 18(b).

[0120] On the screen shown in Figure 18(b), you can set the operating mode, temperature, airflow, and additional functions. Then, by operating the "Change" button to transition to the screen in (d) and operating the "Change" button there, these settings will be applied to all on-timers. Specifically, operating the "Change" button on the screen in Figure 18(b) will transition to the timer setting screen similar to that in Figure 9(c). The default display settings and subsequent setting methods are the same as for individual timer settings.

[0121] Furthermore, on the screen shown in Figure 18(c), you can select either the "Turn All On" button or the "Turn All Off" button. After operating either button, you will be taken to the screen in (d), and when you operate the "Change" button, this on / off setting will be applied to all timers. Specifically, operating the "Turn All On" button will enable all on and off timers. Conversely, operating the "Turn All Off" button will disable all on and off timers.

[0122] Next, please refer to Figure 19 to explain the scope of impact of batch operations. First, changes to the operation settings of the on-timers will be reflected in all on-timers for all days of the week. Also, on-timers that are in the off state will have their operation settings changed while remaining in the off state. However, on-timers whose operation mode is set to cleaning will not have their operation settings changed. Note that if you perform the "Turn All On" or "Turn All Off" operation, the settings for cleaning will also be changed.

[0123] Specifically, the timer in area R151 is in the off state, but it is an on timer, and since the operating mode is energy-saving cooling instead of cleaning, the setting is changed.

[0124] The timer in region R152 is an off-timer, so its settings will not be changed. The timer in area R153 is an on-timer, and since the operating mode is dehumidification (recommended dehumidification) and not cleaning, the setting will be changed.

[0125] The timer in region R154 is an off-timer, so its settings will not be changed. The timer in area R155 is an on-timer, but since the operating mode is cleaning, the setting is not changed. The timer in area R156 is an off-timer, so its settings will not be changed.

[0126] Next, we will explain individual operations (individual operations, not batch operations) with reference to Figure 20. The timer shown in area R161 is an ON timer, meaning the timer is active, and tapping it opens the timer settings screen for editing (changing settings). Additionally, tapping the toggle switch on the far right of the screen allows switching from the ON state to the OFF state.

[0127] On the other hand, the timer shown in area R162 is in the off state, meaning it is not active and unresponsive to tapping (the timer settings screen does not open), making editing (changing settings) impossible. However, it is possible to switch from the off state to the on state by tapping the toggle switch on the far right of the screen.

[0128] The operating schedule information (timer setting information) for the air conditioner 10 is stored in either the terminal device 100, the server 200, or the main unit of the air conditioner 10. When the operating schedule information is stored in the terminal device 100 or the server 200, the set operating schedule information is sent to the air conditioner 10 at or before the set date and time, and the air conditioner 10 starts / stops operation according to that operating schedule information.

[0129] Furthermore, if the operation schedule information is stored in the main unit of the air conditioner 10, the operation schedule information is sent to the air conditioner 10 at a timer-set timing using a dedicated application (terminal device 100) or at a predetermined timing, and stored in the storage unit (control device 80) of the air conditioner 10. The control device 80 then starts / stops operation according to the stored operation schedule information.

[0130] Furthermore, if the air conditioning system 10 is unable to operate its timer due to being offline (unable to communicate), the terminal device 100 will display an error message.

[0131] Furthermore, the configured weekly timer information is shared among all terminal devices 100 connected to the air conditioner.

[0132] Furthermore, the cleaning mode has a fixed operating time. For this reason, it is set to "On" only, and "Off" is automatic. Note that even in modes other than cleaning mode, it may be possible to set it to "On" only, and "Off" to automatic. For example, this could be the case when dehumidifying for 3 hours in clothes drying mode.

[0133] Furthermore, by operating the "Duplicate" button in area R14 of Figure 7(a) or area R24 of Figure 7(b), the operating schedule information for the selected day of the week can be duplicated to other days of the week.

[0134] Furthermore, the control unit 312 of the terminal device 100 can display each operation content in the operation schedule information in a color corresponding to the operation content. For example, in area R23 of Figure 7(b), the relationship between the operation content and the display color is as follows. • Heating: Orange • Air conditioning: Blue • Dehumidification: Green • Air purification: Green • Cleaning: Light blue

[0135] Next, with reference to Figure 21, the process at the start of operation based on the timer of the air conditioning system 10 will be described. Figure 21 is a sequence diagram showing the process by the air conditioning system 10 of the embodiment.

[0136] In step S1, the control device 80 of the air conditioning unit 10 determines whether the current time is the start time of operation according to the timer. If yes, it proceeds to step S2; otherwise, it returns to step S1.

[0137] In step S2, the control device 80 determines whether the operation timer information contains information on operating conditions other than the start time of operation. If yes, proceed to step S3; otherwise, proceed to step S4.

[0138] In step S3, the operation of the air conditioning system 10 is started according to the operating conditions (operating mode (cooling, heating, etc.), temperature, etc.) included in the operating timer information.

[0139] In step S4, the control device 80 starts operating the air conditioner 10 according to the last operating conditions it has stored.

[0140] Thus, according to this embodiment, even if the operation timer information does not include any operating conditions other than the start time, the air conditioner 10 can be started to operate according to the operating history conditions (for example, the last operating conditions) stored in the storage unit as the operating history. This reduces the effort required to set the operation timer information of the air conditioner 10.

[0141] Specifically, when setting the operating timer information, in addition to setting the start time, you only need to select "Do not set" in area R71 of Figure 11, for example. In other words, scheduled operation is possible without setting the temperature, airflow, or additional functions, making operation easier. This is especially convenient when changing seasons, as it eliminates the hassle of switching settings from "cooling to heating" or "heating to cooling."

[0142] Furthermore, the setting of operating conditions can be configured for each individual operating timer. For example, you can set only on-timers with operating conditions, or only on-timers without operating conditions, or you can mix on-timers with and without operating conditions. By mixing on-timers with and without operating conditions within a single weekly timer, the flexibility of settings is greatly increased. For example, during the daytime, you can set an on-timer without operating conditions because the air conditioner settings can remain as they are. On the other hand, during sleep or upon waking, you can set an on-timer with operating conditions because you want to fine-tune the temperature. In this way, settings can be tailored to the user's preferences, increasing the flexibility of settings and improving convenience.

[0143] Furthermore, the ability to schedule cleaning mode allows users to, for example, set the cleaning to run while they are away. This helps users avoid the inconvenience caused by cleaning.

[0144] Furthermore, allowing users to set other operating modes even during the scheduled cleaning mode operation time would increase the flexibility of the settings.

[0145] Furthermore, it is possible to restrict the setting of other operating modes for a predetermined period during the scheduled operation time of the cleaning mode. This prevents situations where, for example, another operating mode is scheduled to start before the cleaning mode ends, causing the cleaning mode to be unintentionally terminated prematurely. In addition, since cleaning continues for the predetermined period, the air conditioning unit 10 can be kept clean.

[0146] Furthermore, the ability to simultaneously switch multiple on / off timers on and off improves convenience.

[0147] Furthermore, the ability to change the operating conditions of multiple timers simultaneously improves convenience. This is especially useful during seasonal changes, as it simplifies operations.

[0148] Furthermore, while it is now possible to change the operating conditions for multiple on-timers at once, the operating conditions for the cleaning mode on-timer will not be changed. Since cleaning is unrelated to air conditioning, no setting changes are necessary, thus avoiding situations where unnecessary setting changes occur.

[0149] Furthermore, the following effects are also observed. First, let's assume that at some point in the past, only the start time and end time of operation could be set on the air conditioner 10, and other operating conditions (such as operating mode) could not be set. In that case, when the start time arrives, the air conditioner 10 will start operating with its current settings.

[0150] Subsequently, the software (app) for the air conditioning unit 10 was updated, allowing the operating mode and temperature to be set using the weekly timer. In this case, normally, the weekly timer would not operate unless the operating mode and temperature were set.

[0151] Furthermore, users using the pre-update app on terminal device 100 cannot set the operating mode or temperature, and therefore the weekly timer does not work. Therefore, as in this embodiment, by providing a "Do not set" option for the operating mode (Figure 11), it is possible to operate the air conditioner 10 with its current settings even if the operating mode or temperature is not set.

[0152] Furthermore, the programs executed by the terminal device 100, server 200, and air conditioning device 10 of this embodiment can be provided as installable or executable files recorded on a recording medium readable by a computer device, such as a CD (Compact Disc)-ROM (Read Only Memory), flexible disk (FD), CD-R (Recordable), or DVD (Digital Versatile Disk). Alternatively, these programs may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0153] While embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications are permitted without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the claims and their equivalents.

[0154] For example, the operating timer information may be a set (pair) of operating start time and operating end time. In this case, the first (second) operating time information includes at least one of the operating start time and operating end time. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0155] 1...Air conditioning system, 10...Air conditioning device, 100...Terminal device, 200...Server, 201...Control unit, 202...Communication unit, 203...Storage unit, 204...Timekeeping unit, 301...Processing unit, 302...Display unit, 303...Operation unit, 304...Communication unit, 311...Acquisition unit, 312...Control unit

Claims

1. An air conditioning system capable of setting multiple operating schedules as operating timer information within a predetermined time cycle, When operation is started at the start time included in the first operation time information, based on first operation time information including at least the start time of operation and first operation timer information including predetermined operating conditions at the start of operation, the operation of the air conditioner is started in accordance with the predetermined operating conditions. An air conditioning system comprising: a control unit that, when operation is started at the operation start time included in the second operation time information based on second operation timer information consisting of at least second operation time information including the start time of operation, starts operation of the air conditioning system in accordance with operation history conditions stored in the storage unit as operation history.

2. The first operating timer information includes a time-based operating mode in which first operating time information, including the start time and end time of operation, is set. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, wherein, if the time-of-day operation mode is set as the first operation timer information, it is possible to set operation timer information other than the first operation timer information even before the end time of operation of the time-of-day operation mode.

3. The predetermined operating conditions include a cleaning mode in which the air conditioning unit performs cleaning operations for a predetermined period of time. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, wherein, when the cleaning mode is set as the predetermined operating condition of the first operating timer information, it is not possible to set any other operating timer information between the start time and end time of the cleaning mode.

4. The aforementioned operating timer information can be set to an enabled state or an disabled state. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, wherein, when multiple operating timer information sets are configured, the multiple operating timer information can be set to an enabled state or an disabled state all at once.

5. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, wherein, when multiple operating timer information sets, the operating conditions of the multiple operating timer information can be set to predetermined conditions all at once.

6. The air conditioning system according to claim 5, even when setting operating conditions for multiple operating timer information at once, the operating conditions for operating timer information that include a cleaning mode for performing cleaning operations for the main body of the air conditioning system for a predetermined period of time are not changed.

7. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, wherein the aforementioned operating history conditions are the operating history last stored in the storage unit.

8. An air conditioning system comprising an air conditioning device capable of setting multiple operating schedules as operating timer information within a predetermined time cycle, and a terminal device for performing operations on the air conditioning device, The air conditioning system operates in response to the operation of the terminal device. When operation is started at the start time included in the first operation time information, based on first operation time information including at least the start time of operation and first operation timer information including predetermined operating conditions at the start of operation, the operation of the air conditioner is started in accordance with the predetermined operating conditions. An air conditioning system comprising: a control unit that, when operation is started at the operation start time included in the second operation time information based on second operation timer information consisting of at least second operation time information including the start time of operation, starts operation of the air conditioning device in accordance with operation history conditions stored in the storage unit as operation history.

Images