Deterioration Diagnosis System

Abstract

The deterioration of the refrigeration equipment is assessed for each type of food. [Solution] The deterioration diagnosis system 100 diagnoses the performance degradation of a refrigeration device 30 having a showcase 60 based on the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature. The deterioration diagnosis system 100 comprises a storage unit 16 and a control unit 12. The storage unit 16 stores a first threshold value used to determine the degree of deterioration for each type of food. The control unit 12 acquires information regarding the types of food stored in the showcase 60 and obtains the first threshold value corresponding to the type of food from the storage unit 16. The control unit 12 also determines the degree of deterioration based on the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature, and the first threshold value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] It relates to a deterioration diagnosis system.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, stores such as supermarkets and convenience stores are equipped with refrigerated showcases and frozen showcases. The set temperature of such showcases is determined based on the storage temperature of the food stored in the cabinet and the user's preferred temperature for food intake. If the set temperature is not the appropriate temperature, there is a risk of deterioration of the food quality and a risk that the user's satisfaction cannot be obtained. Therefore, for example, in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-10238), a refrigerator that determines whether the internal temperature is appropriate for the stored food and notifies the user has been proposed.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] Even when the set temperature of the showcase is the appropriate temperature, the internal temperature may not reach the appropriate temperature due to deterioration (failure) of the refrigeration device. Also, the allowable degree of deterioration of the refrigeration device varies depending on the type of food stored. Therefore, it is difficult for the user to determine the deterioration of the refrigeration device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] The deterioration diagnosis system according to the first aspect diagnoses the performance degradation of a refrigeration device having a storage chamber based on the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature. The deterioration diagnosis system includes a storage unit and a control unit. The storage unit stores a first threshold value used for determining the degree of deterioration for each type of stored item. The control unit acquires information regarding the type of stored item stored in the storage chamber and acquires the first threshold value corresponding to the type of stored item from the storage unit. Further, the control unit determines the degree of deterioration based on the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature and the first threshold value.

[0005] The first-stage deterioration diagnosis system can determine whether or not the refrigeration unit is deteriorating for each type of stored item. This makes it easier for users to assess the deterioration of the refrigeration unit.

[0006] The second perspective deterioration diagnosis system is the same as the first perspective deterioration diagnosis system, and the memory unit further stores a second threshold used to determine the first deterioration risk based on the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature for each type of stored item. The control unit determines the first deterioration risk in the second period based on the average value of the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature in the first period, the average value of the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature in the second period which follows the first period, and the second threshold.

[0007] The second perspective of the deterioration diagnosis system can determine the deterioration risk of the refrigeration unit based on the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature for each type of stored item.

[0008] The third-perspective deterioration diagnosis system is the same as the first-perspective deterioration diagnosis system, and the memory unit further stores a third threshold used to determine the second deterioration risk based on the open time of the storage cabinet door for each type of stored item. The control unit determines the second deterioration risk based on the open time of the door and the third threshold.

[0009] The third-party deterioration diagnosis system can determine the deterioration risk of the refrigeration unit based on the amount of time the storage unit door is open, for each type of stored item.

[0010] The fourth perspective deterioration diagnosis system is a second perspective deterioration diagnosis system, in which the memory unit further stores a third threshold used to determine the second deterioration risk based on the open time of the storage cabinet door for each type of stored item. The control unit determines the second deterioration risk during the second period based on the open time of the door during the second period and the third threshold.

[0011] The fourth perspective of the deterioration diagnosis system can determine the deterioration risk of the refrigeration unit based on the amount of time the storage unit door is open, for each type of stored item.

[0012] The fifth perspective deterioration diagnosis system is a fourth perspective deterioration diagnosis system that determines the deterioration risk of the refrigeration equipment during the second period based on the first and second deterioration risks.

[0013] The fifth perspective deterioration diagnosis system can determine the deterioration risk of refrigeration equipment from two perspectives.

[0014] The sixth perspective deterioration diagnosis system is a fifth perspective deterioration diagnosis system, in which the control unit outputs information regarding deterioration risk and the types of items stored in the storage unit.

[0015] The sixth perspective of the deterioration diagnosis system allows users to check information regarding deterioration risk and the types of items stored in the storage area. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the air conditioning system, including a deterioration diagnosis system. [Figure 2] This is a functional block diagram of an air conditioning system, including a deterioration diagnosis system. [Figure 3] This flowchart shows an example of the processing flow for deterioration diagnosis. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of a degradation index database. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of a degradation index database. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of a report illustrating the results of a deterioration diagnosis. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of a report illustrating the results of a deterioration diagnosis. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0017] (1) Overall structure A deterioration diagnosis of a refrigeration device 30 by a deterioration diagnosis system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. However, a more detailed description than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of well-known matters and redundant descriptions of substantially the same configurations may be omitted. This is to avoid making the following description unnecessarily redundant and to facilitate the understanding of those skilled in the art.

[0018] Also, for the sake of convenience of explanation, suffixes A to Z, etc. are used, but these represent arbitrary numbers and the quantity is not limited thereto. In the following description, when a common description is made for a plurality of devices having the same function, the same reference numerals are used for the description. When distinguishing and describing one device from a plurality of devices having the same function, a suffix of a small English letter is used for the description. For example, since the refrigeration devices 30A, 30B,... 30Z each have the same function, they are denoted as the refrigeration device 30 when the description is common.

[0019] In the present embodiment, the refrigeration device 30 is a refrigerated and / or frozen showcase installed in a store, but the technology of the present disclosure can also be applied to refrigeration devices 30 such as cold storage for pharmaceuticals, refrigerated containers for maritime transportation, and low-temperature warehouses for rice, etc.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioning system 1 including a deterioration diagnosis system 100. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the air conditioning system 1 including the deterioration diagnosis system 100.

[0021] (1-1) Air conditioning system First, an example of the air conditioning system 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. The air conditioning system 1 is a system for managing a refrigeration device 30 to be managed. The air conditioning system 1 includes a refrigeration device 30 having a storage, a control terminal 20 for controlling the operation of the devices constituting the refrigeration device 30, and a management device 10 for managing the refrigeration device 30. Note that the air conditioning system 1 may be a system for managing the refrigeration device 30 set in one property 2, or may be a system for managing the refrigeration devices 30 installed in a plurality of properties 2.

[0022] The management device 10 is connected to the network NW. The network NW includes a LAN, a WAN, the Internet, and the like. The management device 10 is connected to the control terminal 20 installed in the property 2 via the network NW. The property 2 is, for example, a store such as a supermarket or a convenience store. A plurality of refrigeration devices 30A, 30B, ··· 30Z are installed in the property 2 as management targets.

[0023] The refrigeration device 30 cools the interior of a refrigerated and / or frozen showcase (storage) installed in the store by means of a vapor compression refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration device 30 installed in the property 2 is communicably connected to, for example, the control terminal 20 installed in the property 2 via a communication line 90 (for example, a LAN).

[0024] The control terminal 20 manages the refrigeration device 30 to be managed. The control terminal 20 is communicably connected to the refrigeration device 30 and various sensors installed in the property 2 via the communication line 90. Note that one control terminal 20 may be installed in one property 2, or a plurality of control terminals 20 communicably connected to a part of the plurality of refrigeration devices 30 installed in the property 2 may be installed. The control terminal 20 acquires predetermined information from the refrigeration device 30 and the various sensors, and transmits the acquired information to the management device 10. Further, the control terminal 20 controls the operation of the refrigeration device 30 by transmitting various commands to the refrigeration device 30.

[0025] The management device 10 acquires predetermined information from the refrigeration unit 30 and various sensors via the control terminal 20. The management device 10 may also acquire the measured values ​​of the various sensors directly from the sensors, rather than via the control terminal 20. Alternatively, the management device 10 may acquire the measured values ​​of the various sensors on the refrigeration unit 30 via the control terminal 20. The sensors include sensors that measure the temperature at predetermined locations in the refrigeration unit 30 (for example, a temperature sensor 61 that measures the internal temperature) and sensors that detect the state of the storage compartment door (for example, an open / close sensor 62 that detects opening and closing). The management device 10 also transmits various commands to the refrigeration unit 30 via the control terminal 20. In this way, the management device 10 manages the refrigeration unit 30 which is the target of management. The management device 10 may be connected to one or more control terminals 20 of one property 2, or to multiple control terminals 20 of multiple properties 2.

[0026] (1-2) Deterioration Diagnosis System The deterioration diagnosis system 100 is a system that diagnoses the degree of deterioration and deterioration risk of the refrigeration unit 30 under management. In this embodiment, the management device 10 has the functions to realize the deterioration diagnosis system 100, but the deterioration diagnosis system 100 may be realized by a device other than the management device 10. Deterioration of the refrigeration unit 30 includes not only a decrease in the freezing capacity of the refrigeration unit 30, but also deterioration (worsening) in how the refrigeration unit 30 is used.

[0027] A decrease in the freezing capacity of the refrigeration unit 30 refers to a state in which the desired freezing cycle cannot be executed due to malfunctions in the components of the refrigeration unit 30 or insufficient refrigerant, and the refrigeration unit 30 cannot perform its intended freezing capacity. When the freezing capacity of the refrigeration unit 30 decreases, for example, the internal temperature of a storage compartment such as a showcase 60 will deviate from the set temperature.

[0028] Deterioration in the use of the refrigeration unit 30 includes, for example, increasing the time the doors of storage compartments such as the showcase 60 are left open. When the use of the refrigeration unit 30 deteriorates, it leads to a situation where the refrigeration unit 30 cannot perform to its full freezing capacity. Allowing such use of the refrigeration unit 30 leads to a discrepancy between the internal temperature of the storage compartment and the set temperature. This, in turn, leads to deterioration of the refrigeration unit 30.

[0029] In the following explanation, "degree of deterioration" refers to the degree of deterioration of the refrigeration unit 30 during the period covered by the deterioration diagnosis system 100. A higher degree of deterioration indicates a more serious degree of deterioration of the refrigeration unit 30. Furthermore, "deterioration risk" refers to the expected risk of deterioration of the refrigeration unit 30 in the future (after the period covered by the deterioration diagnosis). A higher deterioration risk indicates a higher risk of deterioration of the refrigeration unit 30.

[0030] Typically, supermarkets and convenience stores have multiple display cases 60, each displaying products such as vegetables, meats, seafood, bottled beverages, canned beverages, and frozen foods. The internal temperature of each display case 60 is controlled to match the type of food stored inside (corresponding to the stored items in the claims).

[0031] If the internal temperature of the showcase 60 is not at the appropriate temperature, the degree of quality deterioration will differ depending on the type of food stored inside. For example, for products that can be stored at room temperature, such as bottled and canned beverages, if the internal temperature of the showcase 60 is not at the appropriate temperature, user satisfaction may decrease, but the risk of product quality deterioration is small. In contrast, for products such as meat, seafood, and frozen foods, if the internal temperature of the showcase 60 is not at the appropriate temperature, the quality of the products may deteriorate, potentially harming the user's health. Therefore, stricter temperature control is required for the internal temperature of showcase 60 that stores products such as meat, seafood, and frozen foods. This means that the acceptable degree of deterioration of the refrigeration unit 30 differs depending on the type of food stored in the showcase 60. For this reason, the deterioration diagnosis system 100 performs deterioration diagnosis based on thresholds determined for each type of food.

[0032] (2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Refrigeration equipment As shown in Figure 2, the refrigeration unit 30 includes a heat source unit 40 and one or more utilization units 50 connected to the heat source unit 40 via refrigerant piping, and together they form a refrigerant circuit consisting of a compressor, heat exchanger, fan, etc. (not shown). The refrigeration unit 30 also has a showcase 60, which is a storage compartment for storing goods. In this embodiment, all one or more showcases 60 are closed-type showcases that isolate the storage compartment from the outside air with glass doors or the like. The refrigeration unit 30 is controlled so that the internal temperature of the showcase 60 reaches a set temperature.

[0033] The showcase 60 may be an internal showcase with a heat source unit 40, such as a compressor or condenser, built into the showcase 60, or it may be an external showcase connected to the heat source unit 40 installed outside the showcase 60 via refrigerant piping.

[0034] Various sensors are appropriately attached to predetermined locations in the refrigeration unit 30. These sensors detect the internal temperature, ambient temperature, temperature and pressure of the refrigerant drawn into the compressor, temperature and pressure of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor, temperature of the refrigerant in the evaporator, and temperature of the refrigerant in the condenser. The various sensors include a temperature sensor 61 and an on / off sensor 62, which will be described later.

[0035] Each utilization unit 50 adjusts the internal temperature of a corresponding showcase 60 by supplying air, which has been heat-exchanged by a heat exchanger, to the interior of the corresponding showcase 60 using a fan. One utilization unit 50 adjusts the internal temperature of one or more showcases 60. Each utilization unit 50 has a control unit 51. Each control unit 51 is connected to the control unit 41 and control terminal 20 of the heat source unit 40 via a communication line 90. The heat source unit 40 and the utilization units 50 may be connected one-to-one or one-to-many.

[0036] The control unit 51 processes various commands input from the operation terminal 52 or control terminal 20, and various commands input from the management device 10 via the network NW. These commands include, for example, commands to start or stop the user unit 50, commands to change the set temperature, commands to change the operating mode, and commands to change the set airflow. Based on the detected values ​​from various sensors and the various commands, the control unit 51 works in cooperation with the control unit 41 of the heat source unit 40 to control the operation of various components included in the refrigerant circuit. Specifically, it adjusts the compressor frequency, the fan speed, and the opening degree of various valves.

[0037] Furthermore, the control unit 51 transmits information regarding the user unit 50 (hereinafter referred to as "device information") to the control terminal 20 in response to commands from the control terminal 20. The device information for the user unit 50 includes the operating parameters of the user unit 50 (including the startup / shutdown status of the user unit 50, the set temperature, the operating mode, and the set airflow rate), as well as information indicating the status values ​​of various components included in the user unit 50 (for example, the fan speed, the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant at a predetermined position in the refrigerant circuit).

[0038] The heat source unit 40 functions as a heat source for the refrigerant circuit. The heat source unit 40 has a control unit 41. The control unit 41 transmits information about the heat source unit 40 (hereinafter referred to as "equipment information") to the control terminal 20 in response to commands from the control terminal 20. The equipment information of the heat source unit 40 includes the ambient temperature and information indicating the status values ​​of various components included in the heat source unit 40 (for example, the compressor frequency, the fan speed, and the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant at a predetermined location in the refrigerant circuit).

[0039] The status values ​​of the various components included in the utilization unit 50 and the heat source unit 40 are detected by various sensors (not shown) that are appropriately attached to predetermined locations.

[0040] The operating terminal 52 receives various commands from the user regarding the corresponding refrigeration unit 30. The operating terminal 52 consists of a remote control and an operation panel. The operating terminal 52 may be a small notebook computer, smartphone, or tablet terminal that the user carries or holds. The operating terminal 52 is connected to the control unit 51 of the user unit 50 in a one-to-one or one-to-many manner.

[0041] A temperature sensor 61 is installed inside the showcase 60. The temperature sensor 61 measures the temperature inside the showcase 60. The temperature sensor 61 transmits the measured temperature inside the showcase 60 to the control terminal 20 in response to a command from the control terminal 20.

[0042] The door of the showcase 60 is fitted with an open / close sensor 62 that detects the opening and closing of the door. The open / close sensor 62 detects changes in the door of the showcase 60 from an open state to a closed state, and from a closed state to an open state. When the open / close sensor 62 detects a change in the state of the door, it transmits information indicating the detected state (information regarding the change in the state of the door) to the control terminal 20 in response to a command from the control terminal 20. The open / close sensor 62 may also transmit information regarding the change in the state of the door to the control terminal 20 at an appropriate timing when it detects a change in the state of the door.

[0043] (2-2) Control terminal The control terminal 20 is a computer for controlling the refrigeration unit 30. The control terminal 20 has functions such as setting the set temperature of the user unit 50 and scheduling the defrosting operation. The control terminal 20 controls the operation of the refrigeration unit 30 by connecting to the control unit 41 of the heat source unit 40 and the control unit 51 of the user unit 50. The control terminal 20 may be configured by connecting multiple computers and devices via a network NW. One control terminal 20 is connected to one or more heat source units 40 and one or more user units 50, which are the objects of control. As shown in Figure 2, the control terminal 20 mainly consists of a communication unit 23, a control unit 22, and a storage unit 21.

[0044] The storage unit 21 stores various types of information and may include ROM, RAM, and / or a hard disk. The storage unit 21 stores various programs for executing various functions of the control terminal 20 and various data for executing those programs.

[0045] The communication unit 23 is a network interface that enables the control terminal 20 to connect to the network NW and the communication line 90. The control terminal 20 communicates predetermined information with the refrigeration unit 30, various sensors, and management device 10 via the communication unit 23.

[0046] The control unit 22 mainly consists of a CPU, ROM, and RAM, and performs various information processing on the control terminal 20 by reading and executing programs stored in the memory unit 21.

[0047] The control unit 22 acquires predetermined information from the refrigeration unit 30, which is connected to it via communication. The control unit 22 acquires the equipment information of the refrigeration unit 30 by sending commands to the control unit 41 of the heat source unit 40 and the control unit 51 of the user unit 50 instructing them to transmit the equipment information. For example, the control unit 22 acquires the equipment information of each user unit 50 from the control unit 51 of the user unit 50 at predetermined time intervals (for example, every minute). Also, for example, the control unit 22 acquires the equipment information of the heat source unit 40 from the control unit 41 of the heat source unit 40 at predetermined time intervals (for example, every minute).

[0048] The control unit 22 acquires measurement values ​​from various sensors installed in the refrigeration unit 30. For example, the control unit 22 acquires the internal temperature from the temperature sensor 61 at predetermined time intervals (for example, every minute). Also, for example, the control unit 22 acquires information regarding changes in the state of the door from the open / close sensor 62 at appropriate timings. The control unit 22 may also acquire information regarding the internal temperature and changes in the state of the door via the control unit 51 of the user unit 50 or the control unit 41 of the heat source unit 40.

[0049] The control unit 22 stores various information, such as acquired equipment information, internal temperature, and information regarding changes in the door state, in a predetermined storage area reserved within the storage unit 21. The control unit 22 stores the various information in the storage unit 21 in association with the identification information of the user unit 50 or showcase 60, and the date and time the information was acquired (including the date and time the information was measured or detected). For example, the control unit 22 may store the equipment information in association with the identification information of the user unit 50. Also, for example, the control unit 22 may store the information regarding the internal temperature and changes in the door state in association with the identification information of the showcase 60. The control unit 22 transmits the stored various information to the management device 10 via the network NW during periodic communication between the control terminal 20 and the management device 10 at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 30 minutes).

[0050] The control terminal 20 further includes an output unit 24 such as a display, and an input unit 25 such as a keyboard or mouse. The control terminal 20 is connected to other devices (for example, other computers or portable information terminals) via a communication unit 23, and the communication unit 23 may function as an input unit 25 that receives information transmitted from other devices, and an output unit 24 that transmits information to other devices (outputs information). The other devices may be the management device 10, or maintenance terminals not shown. The maintenance terminal is a computer including storage devices such as ROM, RAM, HDD, and SSD, and a control arithmetic unit such as a CPU. The maintenance terminal is a portable terminal such as a personal computer, smartphone, or tablet.

[0051] The control unit 22 displays screens related to the settings of the refrigeration unit 30 and screens related to the control of the refrigeration unit 30 on the output unit 24.

[0052] Specifically, the control unit 22 displays a screen on the output unit 24 for maintenance workers of the refrigeration unit 30 to input the set temperature of each user unit 50. The set temperature of a user unit 50 is the target temperature of the interior of the showcase 60 corresponding to that user unit 50. The maintenance worker inputs the set temperature of each user unit 50 by, for example, operating the input unit 25. Based on the operation of the maintenance worker, the control unit 22 stores the set temperature of each user unit 50 in a predetermined storage area reserved in the storage unit 21. At this time, the control unit 22 stores the set temperature as set temperature information in the storage unit 21, associating it with the identification information of the user unit 50 and the setting date and time, etc. The control unit 22 may also display a screen on the output unit 24 for inputting the set temperature of each showcase 60. Alternatively, the control unit 22 may store the set temperature as association with the identification information of the showcase 60 and the setting date and time, etc.

[0053] Furthermore, the control unit 22 displays a screen on the output unit 24 for maintenance workers of the refrigeration unit 30 to input the types of food (corresponding to the stored items in the claims) to be stored in each showcase 60. The maintenance worker inputs the types of food to be stored in each showcase 60 by, for example, operating the input unit 25. Based on the maintenance worker's work, the control unit 22 stores the types of food to be stored in each showcase 60 in a predetermined storage area reserved in the storage unit 21. At this time, the control unit 22 stores the types of food to be stored as stored food information in the storage unit 21, associating them with the identification information of the showcase 60 and the set date and time, etc. The control unit 22 may also store the types of food to be stored as associations with the identification information of the user unit 50 and the set date and time, etc.

[0054] Here, the types of food that can be input are pre-stored in a predetermined memory area reserved within the memory unit 21. The types of food that can be input are at least two types: food that can be stored at room temperature, such as bottled or canned beverages, and other foods. However, it is also possible to make more types of food inputtable. For example, the types of food that can be inputtable may be beverages, vegetables, and meats, or they may be further subdivided.

[0055] The control unit 22 transmits the stored set temperature information and stored food information to the management device 10 via the network NW.

[0056] (2-3) Management device The management device 10 is a computer that manages the refrigeration equipment 30 under management by connecting to the control terminal 20 via a network NW. Here, the management device 10 is described as a single computer, but the number of computers constituting the management device 10 is not limited to one. The management device 10 may consist, for example, one or more computers functioning as servers and computers or mobile terminals as clients. Furthermore, the management device 10 may be, for example, a supercomputer, a workstation, or cloud computing. As shown in Figure 2, the management device 10 is a computer mainly composed of a communication unit 11, a control unit 12, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, and a storage unit 16.

[0057] The communication unit 11 is a network interface that enables the management device 10 to connect to the network NW. The management device 10 communicates with the control terminal 20 via the communication unit 11.

[0058] The control unit 12 mainly consists of a CPU, ROM, and RAM, and performs various information processing in the management device 10 by reading and executing programs stored in the memory unit 16. The control unit 12 has a degradation diagnosis unit 13 as a functional block. Details of the operation of the degradation diagnosis unit 13 will be described later.

[0059] The control unit 12 acquires various information, such as equipment information, measured values ​​from various sensors, internal temperature, and information regarding changes in the door state. The control unit 12 stores the acquired information in a predetermined storage area (equipment status database or setting information database, described later) secured within the storage unit 16. The control unit 12 also acquires set temperature information and stored food information. The control unit 12 stores the acquired set temperature information and stored food information in a predetermined storage area (setting information database, described later) secured within the storage unit 16. Based on the various information stored in the storage unit 16, the control unit 12 controls the refrigeration device 30 under management.

[0060] The output unit 14 mainly consists of a display and speakers, and the input unit 15 mainly consists of a keyboard and mouse.

[0061] The storage unit 16 stores various types of information and includes ROM, RAM, and / or hard disks. For example, the storage unit 16 stores various programs for executing various functions of the management device 10 and various data for executing those programs. Specifically, the storage unit 16 stores a device status database (not shown), a settings information database (not shown), and a degradation indicator database.

[0062] The equipment status database stores various information about the status of the refrigeration unit 30 in an appropriate format, such as the internal temperature of the refrigeration unit 30 and information about changes in the state of the door. Specifically, for example, the internal temperature of one showcase 60 is stored in the equipment status database in association with the identification information of the showcase 60 and the date and time when the internal temperature was measured. Similarly, information about changes in the state of the door of one showcase 60 is stored in the equipment status database in association with the identification information of the showcase 60 and the date and time when the change in state was detected. The stored information is used for deterioration diagnosis by the deterioration diagnosis unit 13. Note that information about the internal temperature and changes in the state of the door of the showcase 60 may also be stored in association with the identification information of the corresponding user unit 50. Information linking the user unit 50 and the showcase 60 is stored in the storage unit 16 in advance.

[0063] The setting information database stores the set temperature information and stored food information for each user unit 50 in an appropriate format. Specifically, for example, the set temperature of user unit 50 is stored in the setting information database in association with the identification information of user unit 50 and the set date and time. Here, the set temperature of user unit 50 includes not only the set temperature entered via the control terminal 20, but also the set temperature entered via the operation terminal 52 (the set temperature obtained as the equipment information of user unit 50). In addition, the type of food stored in showcase 60 is stored in the setting information database in association with the identification information of showcase 60. The set temperature of user unit 50 may also be stored in association with the identification information of the corresponding showcase 60. In addition, the type of food stored may be stored in association with the identification information of the corresponding user unit 50.

[0064] The degradation index database stores the degradation degree and degradation level thresholds used for degradation diagnosis by the degradation diagnosis system 100. Details of the degradation index database will be described later.

[0065] (3) Flow of the deterioration diagnosis process The following describes the processing flow of the deterioration diagnosis of the refrigeration unit 30 by the deterioration diagnosis system 100, with reference to Figure 3. The set temperature of each user unit 50 and the type of food stored in each showcase 60 are set in advance by the maintenance worker when the showcase 60 is installed or when the refrigeration unit 30 is maintained, and are stored in the setting information database. In this embodiment, the deterioration diagnosis of the refrigeration unit 30 for the target period (in this embodiment, the previous month) is performed on a regularly scheduled processing day (for example, the 1st of each month). The target period corresponds to the second period in the claims. Note that the period immediately after the refrigeration unit 30 is put into operation, before the internal temperature stabilizes, is not included in the target period.

[0066] First, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 determines whether the current date is equal to the processing date, and whether the deterioration diagnosis for the target period of the current deterioration diagnosis process has been completed (step S1). Based on the data indicating that the deterioration diagnosis process has been completed, which is stored in step S13 described below, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 determines whether the processing for the target period has been completed.

[0067] If the current date is not equal to the processing date, or if the current date is equal to the processing date but the deterioration diagnosis for the target period has already been processed (if NO in step S1), the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 terminates the process.

[0068] On the other hand, if the current date is equal to the processing date and it is determined that no deterioration diagnosis has been performed for the target period (if the answer is YES in step S1), the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 determines the showcase 60 to be subjected to deterioration diagnosis processing (hereinafter referred to as the target showcase 60A).

[0069] Subsequently, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 obtains multiple data points regarding the internal temperature of the target showcase 60A during the target period from the equipment status database. The data regarding the internal temperature includes the internal temperature and the date and time when the internal temperature was measured.

[0070] The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 performs a first calculation process for each acquired internal temperature data (step S2). The first calculation process is the process of calculating the absolute value of the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature at the date and time the internal temperature was measured. Specifically, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 obtains the set temperature of the user unit 50 associated with the target showcase 60A from the setting information database at the date and time the internal temperature to be the subject of the first calculation process was acquired. Then, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 calculates the absolute value of the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature at the date and time the internal temperature was acquired. The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 performs the first calculation process for all internal temperature data during the target period.

[0071] Next, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 calculates the average value of multiple absolute values ​​for each internal temperature calculated in step S2 (step S3). The calculated average value is the average difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature of the target showcase 60A during the target period, and is called the first average value. The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 stores the first average value in the storage unit 16, associating it with the identification information of the target showcase 60A and the target period.

[0072] The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 obtains the types of food stored in the target showcase 60A from the setting information database. The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 also obtains a first threshold associated with the obtained food types from the deterioration index database. The first threshold is the threshold used by the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 for deterioration diagnosis and is used to determine the degree of deterioration. The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 determines the degree of deterioration of the target showcase 60A during the target period by comparing the first average value with the first threshold (step S4).

[0073] The first threshold will be explained in detail below.

[0074] Figure 4 shows data related to the first threshold stored in the deterioration index database. Each item stored in the food type in the deterioration index database is pre-associated with a food type stored in the storage unit 21 of the control terminal 20. The first threshold is a value used to determine the degree of deterioration based on the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature, and is a threshold related to the temperature difference. The first threshold is associated with the food type and the degree of deterioration and is stored in a predetermined storage area reserved in the storage unit 16.

[0075] As described above, the acceptable degree of deterioration of the refrigeration device 30 varies depending on the type of food stored in the showcase 60. Therefore, as shown in Figure 4, even if the degree of deterioration is the same, the first threshold differs depending on the type of food. In this embodiment, three types of deterioration levels are provided: "small," "medium," and "large." The degree of deterioration increases in the order of "small," "medium," and "large." However, the types and number of deterioration levels are not limited to this. For example, the types and number of deterioration levels may be changed depending on the type of food.

[0076] Specifically, for example, if the type of food stored in the target showcase 60A is "beverages," the degree of deterioration will be "low" when the first average temperature is 2°C. On the other hand, if the type of food stored in the target showcase 60A is "meat," the degree of deterioration will be "high" when the first average temperature is 2°C. This is because the showcase 60 storing "meat" requires stricter temperature control than the showcase 60 storing "beverages," and the system is designed to diagnose deterioration early if the showcase 60 is unable to perform optimally.

[0077] The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 obtains the first average value from the storage unit 16 for the period prior to the target period (in this embodiment, the month before last, which is the period immediately preceding the target period). The period prior to the target period corresponds to the first period in the claims.

[0078] The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 calculates the difference between the first average value of the target period and the first average value of the first period (step S5). In other words, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 calculates the degree of increase of the first average value of the target period relative to the first average value of the first period.

[0079] The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 obtains a second threshold from the deterioration index database, which is linked to the type of food obtained in step S4. The second threshold is the threshold used by the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 for deterioration diagnosis and is used to determine the first deterioration risk. The first deterioration risk is the deterioration risk based on the difference between the internal temperature of the target showcase 60A and the set temperature. As described above, the deterioration risk indicates the risk of deterioration of the refrigeration device 30 that is expected in the future (after the target period for deterioration diagnosis). The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 determines the first deterioration risk of the target showcase 60A during the target period by comparing the difference between the first average value for the target period and the first average value for the first period, calculated in step S5, with the second threshold (step S6).

[0080] The second and third thresholds will be explained in detail below. The third threshold is the threshold used by the degradation diagnosis unit 13 for degradation diagnosis and is used to determine the second degradation risk, which will be described later.

[0081] Figure 5 shows data related to the second and third thresholds stored in the deterioration index database. Each item stored in the food type in the deterioration index database is pre-associated with the food type stored in the storage unit 21 of the control terminal 20. The second threshold is a value used to determine the first deterioration risk, based on the difference between the first average value for the target period and the first average value for the first period, and is a threshold related to temperature difference. The third threshold is a value used to determine the second deterioration risk, based on the opening time of the showcase door 60, and is a threshold related to time. The second and third thresholds are associated with the food type and deterioration risk and are stored in a predetermined storage area reserved in the storage unit 16.

[0082] As described above, the acceptable degree of deterioration of the refrigeration device 30 varies depending on the type of food stored in the showcase 60. Therefore, as shown in Figure 5, even if the deterioration risk is the same, the second and third thresholds will differ depending on the type of food. In this embodiment, three types of deterioration risk are provided: "small," "medium," and "large." The risk of deterioration increases in the order of "small," "medium," and "large." However, the types and number of deterioration risks are not limited to this. For example, the types and number of deterioration risks may be changed depending on the type of food.

[0083] Specifically, for example, if the type of food stored in the target showcase 60A is "beverages," the risk of deterioration is "low" when the first average temperature in the target period increases by 0.4°C compared to the first average temperature in the first period. On the other hand, if the type of food stored in the target showcase 60A is "meat," the risk of deterioration is "high" when the first average temperature in the target period increases by 0.4°C compared to the first average temperature in the first period. As mentioned above, this is because the showcase 60 storing "meat" requires stricter temperature control than the showcase 60 storing "beverages," and the showcase 60 that is unable to perform properly is diagnosed as deteriorated at an earlier stage.

[0084] Next, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 obtains information regarding changes in the condition of the door of the target showcase 60A during the target period from the equipment condition database. The information regarding changes in the condition of the door includes the date and time when the change in the condition of the door was detected.

[0085] The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 calculates the average daily door opening time during the target period based on multiple pieces of information regarding changes in the door's condition (step S7).

[0086] The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 obtains a third threshold, which is linked to the type of food, from the deterioration index database. As described above, the third threshold is the threshold used by the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 for deterioration diagnosis and is used to determine the second deterioration risk. The second deterioration risk is the deterioration risk based on the time the door of the target showcase 60A is open. The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 determines the second deterioration risk of the target showcase 60A during the target period by comparing the average value of the door open time calculated in step S7 with the third threshold (step S8).

[0087] Specifically, in the example shown in Figure 5, if the type of food stored in the target showcase 60A is "beverages," the risk of deterioration is "low" when the average door opening time is 1 hour. On the other hand, if the type of food stored in the target showcase 60A is "meat," the risk of deterioration is "high" when the average door opening time is 1 hour. As mentioned above, this is because the showcase 60 storing "meat" requires stricter temperature control compared to the showcase 60 storing "beverages," and the showcase 60 that is not performing optimally is diagnosed as deteriorated at an earlier stage.

[0088] The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 determines the deterioration risk of the target showcase 60A during the target period to be the value of the higher of the first deterioration risk determined in step S6 and the second deterioration risk determined in step S8 (step S9). Specifically, for example, if the first deterioration risk during the target period is "small" and the second deterioration risk is "large", the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 determines the deterioration risk of the target showcase 60A during the target period to be "large". On the other hand, if the first deterioration risk during the target period is "medium" and the second deterioration risk is "small", the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 determines the deterioration risk of the target showcase 60A during the target period to be "medium".

[0089] In step S10, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 determines whether the deterioration diagnosis process has been completed for all showcases 60. If it determines that there are showcases 60 for which the deterioration diagnosis process has not been completed (if the answer is NO in step S10), the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 returns to step S2. The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 determines which showcases 60A will undergo deterioration diagnosis processing from among the showcases 60 for which the deterioration diagnosis process has not been completed. The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 repeats steps S2 to S10 for all showcases 60 until the deterioration diagnosis process is completed.

[0090] If the deterioration diagnosis process is determined to be complete for all showcases 60 (if the answer is YES in step S10), the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 generates a report showing the degree of deterioration and deterioration risk for each showcase 60 (step S11). Figures 6 and 7 are examples of reports showing the results of the deterioration diagnosis generated by the deterioration diagnosis unit 13.

[0091] As shown in the example in Figure 6, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 outputs the degree of deterioration I1, the deterioration risk I2, and information I3 regarding the type of food stored in each showcase 60. Furthermore, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 may also output, for each showcase 60, the average value of the set temperature during the target period (average set temperature) I4, the first average value I5, the degree of increase I6 between the first average value of the target period and the first average value of the first period, and the average daily door opening time I7 during the target period. The value of "Storage Product Category" in Figure 6 corresponds to the information I3 regarding the food stored. The value of "Average Deviation between Set Temperature and Internal Temperature" corresponds to the first average value I5. The value of "Degree of Increase between Set Temperature and Internal Temperature Deviation" corresponds to the degree of increase I6 between the first average value of the target period and the first average value of the first period. The value of "Average Cumulative Door Opening Time per Day" corresponds to the average daily door opening time I7 during the target period. Also, as shown in the example in Figure 7, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 outputs the diagnosis results for the showcase 60.

[0092] The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 outputs the generated report (step S12). For example, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 may display the generated report on a display unit 14. Alternatively, for example, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 may send the generated report to the administrator of the refrigeration unit 30.

[0093] The deterioration diagnosis unit 13 stores data indicating that the deterioration diagnosis process is complete in the storage unit 16, in association with the target period (step S13), and terminates the process.

[0094] (4) Features (4-1) The deterioration diagnosis system 100 of this embodiment diagnoses the performance degradation of a refrigeration device 30 having a showcase 60 based on the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature. The deterioration diagnosis system 100 comprises a storage unit 16 and a control unit 12. The storage unit 16 stores a first threshold value used to determine the degree of deterioration for each type of food. The control unit 12 acquires information regarding the types of food stored in the showcase 60 and obtains the first threshold value corresponding to the type of food from the storage unit 16. The control unit 12 also determines the degree of deterioration based on the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature, and the first threshold value.

[0095] Even if the temperature setting of the showcase 60 is appropriate, the internal temperature may not reach the appropriate level due to deterioration of the refrigeration unit 30. Furthermore, the acceptable degree of deterioration of the refrigeration unit 30 varies depending on the type of food stored in the showcase 60. However, it is difficult for the user to determine whether or not the refrigeration unit 30 is deteriorated (and whether or not the deterioration is acceptable).

[0096] In this embodiment, the deterioration diagnosis system 100 can determine whether the refrigeration unit 30 is deteriorated for each type of food. This makes it easier for users to determine the deterioration of the refrigeration unit 30, improving convenience.

[0097] (4-2) The memory unit 16 further stores a second threshold value for each type of food, which is used to determine the first deterioration risk based on the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature. The control unit 12 determines the first deterioration risk during the target period based on the first average value of the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature during the first period, the first average value of the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature during the target period after the first period, and the second threshold value.

[0098] This configuration allows for the determination of the deterioration risk of the refrigeration unit 30 based on the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature for each type of food.

[0099] (4-3) The memory unit 16 further stores a third threshold value for each type of food, which is used to determine the second deterioration risk based on the time the showcase door 60 is open. The control unit 12 determines the second deterioration risk based on the door open time and the third threshold value.

[0100] This configuration allows for the determination of the deterioration risk of the refrigeration unit 30 based on the time the door of the showcase 60 is open, for each type of food.

[0101] (4-4) The memory unit 16 further stores a third threshold value for each type of food, which is used to determine the second deterioration risk based on the time the showcase door 60 is open. The control unit 12 determines the second deterioration risk during the target period based on the time the door is open during the target period and the third threshold value.

[0102] This configuration allows for the determination of the deterioration risk of the refrigeration unit 30 based on the time the door of the showcase 60 is open, for each type of food.

[0103] (4-5) Based on the first and second deterioration risks, the deterioration risk of the refrigeration unit 30 during the target period is determined.

[0104] This configuration allows for the assessment of the deterioration risk of the refrigeration unit 30 from two perspectives.

[0105] (4-6) The control unit 12 outputs information regarding the risk of deterioration and the types of food to be stored in the showcase 60.

[0106] This configuration allows users to check information regarding the risk of deterioration and the types of food stored in the showcase 60.

[0107] (5) Variant Modifications of the above embodiment will now be described. Note that the modifications may be combined with some or all of the other modifications as appropriate, as long as they do not contradict each other.

[0108] (5-1) Variation A The order and content of each process in the flowchart described above may be modified as appropriate, without departing from the gist of this disclosure.

[0109] (5-2) Variation B In the above embodiment, all one or more showcases 60 are closed-type showcases that seal off the storage compartment from the outside air by glass doors or the like. However, the showcases 60 may also include open-type showcases that seal off the storage compartment from the outside air by forming an air curtain. If the target showcase 60A is an open-type showcase, steps S7 and S8 in Figure 3 can be omitted. Also, in step S9, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 determines the first deterioration risk determined in step S6 as the deterioration risk of the target showcase 60A during the target period.

[0110] (5-3) Modification C Maintenance workers for the refrigeration unit 30 may use the operation terminal 52 to input the set temperature for each user unit 50 and the type of food to be stored in each showcase 60. The operation terminal 52 may also transmit the input information to the control terminal 20.

[0111] (5-4) Modification D In the above embodiment, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 performed a first calculation process for each data point of the internal temperature, and the average of the multiple absolute values ​​calculated was taken as the first average value. However, the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 may, as the first calculation process, calculate the absolute value of the difference between the average internal temperature of the target showcase 60A during the target period and the average set temperature of the target showcase 60A during the target period, and take this as the first average value.

[0112] In this modified version, the degradation diagnosis process by the degradation diagnosis system 100 becomes simpler.

[0113] (5-5) Variation E The control unit 22 of the control terminal 20 may, upon acquiring information regarding the internal temperature from the temperature sensor 61, calculate the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature at the time the internal temperature was acquired. The control unit 22 may store the calculated difference in the storage unit 21, in association with the identification information of the showcase 60 and the time the internal temperature was acquired.

[0114] In this modified example, the control terminal 20 calculates the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature as soon as it acquires the internal temperature, thus simplifying the deterioration diagnosis process by the deterioration diagnosis system 100.

[0115] (5-6) Modification F The control unit 12 of the management device 10 may, upon obtaining information regarding the internal temperature from the control terminal 20, calculate the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature at the time the internal temperature was obtained. The control unit 12 may store the calculated difference in the storage unit 16, associating it with the identification information of the showcase 60 and the time the internal temperature was obtained.

[0116] In this modified version, the management device 10 calculates the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature as soon as it acquires the internal temperature, thus simplifying the deterioration diagnosis process by the deterioration diagnosis system 100.

[0117] (5-7) Variation G If the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 diagnoses that the degree of deterioration and / or risk of deterioration of the target showcase 60A is high, the control unit 12 may send a command to the control terminal 20 to lower the set temperature of the corresponding user unit 50.

[0118] In this modified example, the deterioration of food stored in the target showcase 60A can be suppressed.

[0119] (5-8) Modification H If the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 diagnoses that the degree of deterioration and / or risk of deterioration of the target showcase 60A is high, the control unit 12 may send a command to the control terminal 20 to lower the set temperature of the air conditioning equipment near the target showcase 60A.

[0120] In this modified example, the deterioration of food stored in the target showcase 60A can be suppressed.

[0121] (5-9) Variation I If the deterioration diagnosis unit 13 diagnoses that the degree of deterioration and / or risk of deterioration of the target showcase 60A is high, the control unit 12 may send a command to the control terminal 20 to lower the set temperature of the showcase 60 adjacent to the target showcase 60A.

[0122] In this modified example, the deterioration of food stored in the target showcase 60A can be suppressed.

[0123] (5-10) Modification J In the above embodiment, a maintenance worker inputs the type of food to be stored in each showcase 60. However, each showcase 60 has a camera that takes pictures of the inside, and the control unit 12 may store the type of food stored in the showcase in a configuration information database based on the images taken by the camera.

[0124] (5-11) While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, it should be understood that various modifications to the form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as described in the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0125] 1: Air conditioning system 10: Management device 11: Communications Department 12: Control Unit 13: Deterioration Diagnosis Department 14: Output section 15: Input section 16: Storage section 20: Control terminal 21: Storage section 22: Control Unit 23: Communications Department 30: Refrigeration equipment 40: Heat source unit 41: Control Unit 50: Usage Unit 51: Control Unit 52: Operating terminal 60: Showcases, storage units 61: Internal temperature sensor 62: Open / Close Sensor 100: Deterioration Diagnosis System [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0126] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2006-10238

Claims

1. A deterioration diagnosis system (100) that diagnoses a performance degradation of a refrigeration device (30) having a storage compartment (60) based on the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature, A storage unit (16) that stores a first threshold value used to determine the degree of deterioration for each type of stored item, A control unit (12) acquires information regarding the type of items to be stored in the storage compartment, obtains a first threshold value from the storage unit corresponding to the type of items, and determines the degree of deterioration based on the difference between the internal temperature of the compartment and the set temperature, and the first threshold value. Equipped with, Deterioration diagnosis system (100).

2. The memory unit further stores a second threshold value for each type of stored item, which is used to determine the first deterioration risk based on the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature. The control unit determines the first deterioration risk in the second period based on the average value of the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature in the first period, the average value of the difference between the internal temperature and the set temperature in the second period which is after the first period, and the second threshold. The deterioration diagnosis system according to claim 1.

3. The memory unit further stores a third threshold value for each type of stored item, which is used to determine the second deterioration risk based on the time the storage compartment door is open. The control unit determines the second deterioration risk based on the door opening time and the third threshold. The deterioration diagnosis system according to claim 1.

4. The memory unit further stores a third threshold value for each type of stored item, which is used to determine the second deterioration risk based on the time the storage compartment door is open. The control unit determines the second deterioration risk during the second period based on the door opening time during the second period and the third threshold value. The deterioration diagnosis system according to claim 2.

5. The control unit determines the risk of deterioration of the refrigeration device during the second period based on the first and second deterioration risks. The deterioration diagnosis system according to claim 4.

6. The control unit outputs information regarding the risk of deterioration and the type of items to be stored in the storage compartment. The deterioration diagnosis system according to claim 5.

Images