Air conditioning system, air conditioning method, and control device

Abstract

We provide air conditioning systems and other equipment that provide appropriate air conditioning. [Solution] The air conditioning system 100 includes, for each of the multiple zones included in the air-conditioned room R1, a camera that detects people present in that zone, a dehumidifier 10 that dehumidifies the air, fan filter units 1 to 5 that adjust the amount of air supplied to each of the multiple zones when supplying the dehumidified air from the dehumidifier 10 to the multiple zones, and a control device 30 that calculates the number of people present in each of the multiple zones based on the camera's detection results and controls the fan filter units 1 to 5 based on that number.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioning system, an air conditioning method, and a control device.

Background Art

[0002] Regarding the air conditioning of a manufacturing line for secondary batteries and the like, for example, the technology described in Patent Document 1 is known. That is, Patent Document 1 describes "controlling the blowing volume and / or dew point temperature of low dew point air supplied from the dehumidifying device according to the detection signal of a human presence sensor".

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the technology described in Patent Document 1, a human presence sensor is used to detect a person in the low dew point room or the front room. When there is a person in the low dew point room or the front room, the in-room operation mode is executed, and when there is no person in the low dew point room or the front room, the non-in-room operation mode is executed. Then, for example, when there is a person in the low dew point room, the in-room operation mode is uniformly executed regardless of the distribution of people, so dew point unevenness (variation in dew point) may occur in the low dew point room due to the moisture generation of people. Thus, the technology described in Patent Document 1 has room for improvement in performing appropriate air conditioning.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioning system and the like that perform appropriate air conditioning.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the aforementioned problems, the air conditioning system according to this disclosure includes, for each of the multiple zones included in the air-conditioned room, a person detection means for detecting people present in that zone, a dehumidifier for dehumidifying the air, an air supply amount adjustment device for adjusting the amount of air supplied to each of the multiple zones when supplying the dehumidified air from the dehumidifier to the multiple zones, and a control device that calculates the number of people present in each of the multiple zones based on the detection results of the person detection means and controls the air supply amount adjustment device based on that number. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide an air conditioning system that provides appropriate air conditioning. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram of an air conditioning system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] This is an explanatory diagram relating to a dehumidifier in an air conditioning system according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] This is an explanatory diagram showing the arrangement of multiple zones in an air-conditioned room of an air-conditioning system according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a functional block diagram of an air conditioning system according to an embodiment. [Figure 5A] This is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the total number of people in the air-conditioned room and the airflow rate from the dehumidifier in the air conditioning system according to the embodiment. [Figure 5B] This is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the total number of people in the air-conditioned room and the dew point temperature of the air from the dehumidifier in the air conditioning system according to the embodiment. [Figure 5C] This is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the number of people in a zone and the amount of air supplied to the zone in an air conditioning system according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart of the processes executed by the control device during normal operation of the air conditioning system according to the embodiment. [Figure 7A] This is a first explanatory diagram relating to the number of people present in each zone of the air conditioning system according to the embodiment. [Figure 7B]This is a second explanatory diagram relating to the number of people present in each zone of the air conditioning system according to the embodiment. [Figure 7C] This is a third explanatory diagram relating to the number of people present in each zone of the air conditioning system according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart of the processes executed by the control device during the commissioning of the air conditioning system according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart of the processes executed by the control device in the event of an emergency in the air conditioning system according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] This is an explanatory diagram of an air conditioning system with a modified configuration. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] <<Embodiment>> <Air conditioning system configuration> Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram of an air conditioning system 100 according to an embodiment. The multiple arrows in Figure 1 indicate airflow. The air conditioning system 100 shown in Figure 1 is a system for maintaining the air in the air-conditioned room R1 in a dry state with a low dew point. Here, "dew point" refers to the temperature at which water vapor in the air begins to condense. In addition to the dew point of the air-conditioned room R1, the temperature, room pressure, and cleanliness may also be adjusted as appropriate. The air conditioning system 100 shown in Figure 1 consists of a dehumidifier 10, fan filter units 1 to 5 (air supply volume adjustment devices), cameras 6a to 6q (human detection means: see Figure 3), and a control device 30.

[0010] In the example shown in Figure 1, an air conditioning room R1 and an anteroom R2 are provided in a predetermined air conditioning facility F1. The air conditioning room R1 is a room where the temperature and dew point are controlled (for example, a dry clean room). Although not shown, such an air conditioning room R1 is equipped with a temperature sensor and a dew point meter. The detected values ​​of each sensor, including the temperature sensor and dew point meter, are output to the control device 30.

[0011] In the example of FIG. 1, a plurality of production apparatuses E1 are provided in the air-conditioned room R1. These production apparatuses E1 are apparatuses for producing a predetermined product. In the production apparatus E1, in addition to secondary batteries such as lithium ion batteries, organic EL (Electro Luminescence), predetermined electronic components, precision machinery, FPD (Flat Panel Display), pharmaceuticals, etc. are manufactured.

[0012] The pre-chamber R2 is a room where predetermined pre-treatment is performed and is adjacent to the air-conditioned room R1. Note that the temperature and dew point may also be adjusted in the pre-chamber R2 (that is, the pre-chamber R2 may function as another air-conditioned room). Between the air-conditioned room R1 and the pre-chamber R2, people can enter and exit through a door (not shown). Near this door (not shown), equipment (not shown) for managing the entry and exit of the air-conditioned room R1 is installed. For example, predetermined authentication using an IC card may be performed when entering and exiting the room. Also, people entering and exiting the room may be detected by a camera or an infrared sensor.

[0013] The dehumidifier 10 shown in FIG. 1 is a device for dehumidifying air and is provided in a machine room (not shown). The air dehumidified by the dehumidifier 10 is guided to the chamber C1 through the duct D1. The chamber C1 is the space above the ceiling of the air-conditioned room R1. Note that the space above the ceiling of the air-conditioned room R1 and the space above the ceiling of the pre-chamber R2 (not shown) may be formed as one common chamber.

[0014] The fan filter unit 1 (air supply amount adjustment device) shown in FIG. 1 is a device for supplying air from the chamber C1 to the air-conditioned room R1 and is embedded in the ceiling of the air-conditioned room R1. The fan filter unit 1 includes an air supply fan 1a and a filter 1b. The air supply fan 1a is a blower for supplying air from the chamber C1 to the air-conditioned room R1. Note that the rotation speed of the air supply fan 1a is adjusted by the control of an inverter (not shown).

[0015] Filter 1b collects dust from the air flowing from the supply fan 1a towards the air conditioning room R1 and is located on the outlet side of the supply fan 1a. Examples of such filters 1b include HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter) and ULPA (Ultra Low Penetration Air Filter). The other fan filter units 2-5 have a similar configuration. As the dehumidifier 10 and fan filter units 1-5 are driven, clean, low-humidity air is supplied from chamber C1 to the air conditioning room R1.

[0016] The air supplied to the air-conditioned room R1 is returned to the dehumidifier 10 via duct D2. For example, the floor of the air-conditioned room R1 may be made of grating (not shown), and the air flowing into the underfloor space (not shown) through this grating may be guided to the dehumidifier 10 via duct D2. Alternatively, for example, air may be guided to the dehumidifier 10 sequentially through an opening (not shown) in the side wall of the air-conditioned room R1 and duct D2. Alternatively, a portion of the air flowing out of the air-conditioned room R1 may be guided to the dehumidifier 10, and the remainder may be exhausted.

[0017] The control device 30 shown in Figure 1 is a device that controls the dehumidifier 10 and fan filter units 1 to 5. Further details of the control device 30 will be described later.

[0018] Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram of the dehumidifier 10. In Figure 2, the chamber C1 and air conditioning room R1 are simplified in the illustration, and the anteroom R2 (see Figure 1) is omitted from the illustration. In the example in Figure 2, the dehumidifier 10 is configured as a desiccant type. Specifically, the dehumidifier 10 comprises a housing 11, a desiccant rotor 12, a processing-side fan 13, a dew point meter 14, a heater 15, and a regeneration-side fan 16. The housing 11 houses each component, such as the desiccant rotor 12. The inside of the housing 11 is divided into a processing area A1 and a regeneration area A2 by a partition wall 11a.

[0019] The desiccant rotor 12 is disc-shaped, and is positioned so that the radial direction of the disc and the direction of airflow (left-right direction in Figure 2) are approximately perpendicular. The desiccant rotor 12 is composed of a high-temperature regenerating adsorbent that adsorbs moisture at low temperatures and releases moisture at high temperatures. Examples of such adsorbents include silica gel and zeolite. The desiccant rotor 12 is rotatably supported with approximately half of its disc-shaped surface exposed to the processing area A1 and the other half exposed to the regeneration area A2. The desiccant rotor 12 rotates to a predetermined speed inside the housing 11.

[0020] As shown in Figure 2, a processing fan 13 and a dew point meter 14 are arranged in the processing area A1. The processing fan 13 is a fan for circulating air through the processing area A1 and is controlled by the control device 30. In the example in Figure 2, the processing fan 13 is located upstream of the desiccant rotor 12 (upstream in the direction of airflow) in the processing area A1, but it may also be located downstream of the desiccant rotor 12.

[0021] The dew point meter 14 is a sensor for detecting the dew point of the air dehumidified by the desiccant rotor 12, and is located downstream of the desiccant rotor 12 in the processing area A1. The value detected by the dew point meter 14 is output to the control device 30.

[0022] In the other regeneration area A2, a heater 15 and a regeneration-side fan 16 are located. The heater 15 is an electric heater for heating the desiccant rotor 12 to dehydrate it. The heater 15 is located near the desiccant rotor 12 and is controlled by the control device 30. The regeneration-side fan 16 is a fan for drawing outside air into the regeneration area A2 and for exhausting it from the regeneration area A2, and is also controlled by the control device 30. In the example in Figure 2, the regeneration-side fan 16 is located upstream of the desiccant rotor 12 (upstream in the direction of airflow) in the regeneration area A2, but it may also be located downstream of the desiccant rotor 12.

[0023] Moisture from the air guided from the air conditioning room R1 to the treatment area A1 via duct D2 is adsorbed by the desiccant rotor 12. The moisture adsorbed by the desiccant rotor 12 is desorbed as it passes through the regeneration area A2. As a result, the adsorbent on the desiccant rotor 12 is regenerated. The dehumidified air in the treatment area A1 is then guided back to the air conditioning room R1 via duct D1 and chamber C1 in sequence. This maintains a dry environment with a low dew point in the air conditioning room R1.

[0024] Note that the configuration of the dehumidifier 10 shown in Figure 2 is just one example and is not limited to this. For example, a well-known compressor type or hybrid type dehumidifier may be used.

[0025] Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the arrangement of multiple zones 7a to 7q in the air-conditioned room R1. The multiple zones 7a to 7q shown in Figure 3 are the areas (partial spaces within the air-conditioned room R1) that are used to calculate the number of people present in each zone. These zones 7a to 7q are pre-configured based on the location of the production equipment E1 and the movement of people. In the example in Figure 3, a total of 13 zones 7a to 7q are set in the passage between the side wall of the air-conditioned room R1 and the production equipment E1, and in the passage between production equipment E1, E1. Note that the number and layout of zones shown in Figure 3 are just an example and are not limited to this.

[0026] Camera 6a, shown in Figure 3, is a "person detection means" for detecting people in a predetermined zone 7a. Similarly, the remaining cameras 6b to 6q are used to detect people in predetermined zones 7b to 7q. For example, Time of Flight (TOF) cameras may be used as such cameras 6a to 6q, or predetermined cameras that generate RGB images may be used. It is also possible to use infrared sensors or the like instead of cameras 6a to 6q.

[0027] The moment-by-moment images captured by cameras 6a to 6q are output to the control device 30 (see Figure 1). Based on the images captured by cameras 6a to 6q, the number of people in each zone 7a to 7q is calculated. In the example in Figure 3, one camera (e.g., camera 6a) is provided for each zone (e.g., zone 7a), and that zone is captured by the camera. Note that there is no particular requirement for one camera to be used for each zone; multiple cameras may be used. In this case, the cameras are arranged so that each zone is covered by the field of view of the multiple cameras.

[0028] Furthermore, although not shown in Figure 3, it is assumed that at least one fan filter unit is installed in each zone. Incidentally, while Figure 1 shows a total of five fan filter units 1 to 5, if a total of 13 zones 7a to 7q are configured as shown in Figure 3, the total number of fan filter units will be 13 or more.

[0029] Then, when supplying the dehumidified air from the dehumidifier 10 (see Figure 1) to multiple zones 7a to 7q, the amount of air supplied to each zone is adjusted by a fan filter unit (air supply volume adjustment device). Note that in areas where the fan filter unit is not located in a plan view (such as the corner of the air conditioning room R1 in the example of Figure 3), no adjustment of the air supply volume is performed, so there is no particular need to set up zones in such areas.

[0030] Figure 4 is a functional block diagram of the air conditioning system 100. As described above, the air conditioning system 100 is composed of cameras 6a to 6q, a dew point meter 14, a control device 30, a dehumidifier 10, and fan filter units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, ... As described above, the cameras 6a to 6q (human detection means) detect people present in each of the multiple zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) included in the air conditioning room R1 (see Figure 3).

[0031] The dew point meter 14 is placed in the processing area A1 (see Figure 2) of the dehumidifier 10 and detects the dew point of the dehumidified air. Alternatively, one or more dew point meters (not shown) may also be installed in the air conditioning room R1 (see Figure 1).

[0032] The control device 30 calculates the number of people present in each of the multiple zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) based on the detection results of cameras 6a to 6q (people detection means), and controls the fan filter units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, ... (air supply volume adjustment devices) based on the number of people. As described above, it is assumed that at least one fan filter unit is provided for each of the multiple zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3).

[0033] As shown in Figure 4, the control device 30 comprises a data acquisition unit 31, a storage unit 32, a control unit 33, and a data output unit 34. The data acquisition unit 31 acquires moment-by-moment shooting results from cameras 6a to 6q, and also acquires moment-by-moment detection values ​​from sensors, including the dew point meter 14.

[0034] The storage unit 52, although not shown in the diagram, is configured with non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and volatile memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and registers. In addition to a predetermined program, the storage unit 52 pre-stores zone setting information 32a and air conditioning setting information 32b shown in Figure 4.

[0035] Zone setting information 32a is setting information for multiple zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) in the air conditioning room R1 (see Figure 3). For example, the identification information of the zones in air conditioning room R1, the location of the zones, the identification information of the cameras used to detect people in the zones, and the identification information of the fan filter units that supply air to the zones are all associated in the area setting information.

[0036] The air conditioning setting information 32b is setting information for generating control command values ​​for the dehumidifier 10 and fan filter units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, ... based on the number of people in each zone 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) and the detection values ​​of sensors including the dew point meter 14.

[0037] The control unit 33 is configured with a processor (not shown), such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), as part of its hardware configuration. The processor reads a predetermined program stored in ROM (not shown) or HDD (not shown) and loads it into RAM (not shown) to execute a predetermined process. Based on the zone setting information 32a and the air conditioning setting information 32b, the control unit 33 generates control command values ​​for controlling the dehumidifier 10 and the fan filter units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, ... The data output unit 34 outputs the control command values ​​generated by the control unit 33 to the dehumidifier 10 and the fan filter units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, ...

[0038] Note that while Figure 4 shows an example where the dehumidifier 10 and fan filter units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, ... are controlled by a single control device 30, the system is not limited to this. For example, a control device for controlling the dehumidifier 10 and another control device for controlling the fan filter units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, ... may be provided. Alternatively, each of the fan filter units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, ... may be provided with its own individual control device.

[0039] Figure 5A is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the total number of people in the air-conditioned room and the airflow rate from the dehumidifier (see also Figure 4 as appropriate). In Figure 5A, the horizontal axis represents the total number of people in air-conditioned room R1 (see Figure 1), and the vertical axis represents the airflow rate supplied by the dehumidifier 10. The total number of people in air-conditioned room R1 may be calculated by equipment (not shown) that manages entry and exit to air-conditioned room R1, or the control device 30 may calculate it based on data received from this equipment. The relationship between the total number of people in air-conditioned room R1 and the airflow rate supplied by the dehumidifier 10 (as shown in Figure 5A) can be given, for example, by a predetermined formula or data table.

[0040] As shown in Figure 5A, the control device 30 increases the airflow rate supplied from the dehumidifier 10 as the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 increases. For example, when the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 is large, the total amount of moisture generated by people also increases, but the humidity change in the air-conditioned room R1 can be suppressed by increasing the airflow rate supplied from the dehumidifier 10.

[0041] Figure 5B is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the total number of people in the air-conditioned room and the dew point temperature of the air from the dehumidifier (see also Figure 4 as appropriate). In Figure 5B, the horizontal axis represents the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 (see Figure 1), and the vertical axis represents the dew point temperature of the air supplied by the dehumidifier 10. As shown in Figure 5B, the dew point temperature is set to a value less than 0°C regardless of the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1. The control device 30 lowers the dew point temperature of the air supplied by the dehumidifier 10 as the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 increases. This suppresses changes in humidity in the air-conditioned room R1.

[0042] Figure 5C is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the number of people in a zone and the amount of air supplied to that zone (see also Figure 4 as appropriate). In Figure 5C, the horizontal axis represents the number of people in a given zone, and the vertical axis represents the amount of air supplied to that zone. As mentioned above, the number of people in each zone 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) is calculated based on the shooting results of cameras 6a to 6q. As shown in Figure 5C, the air supply to a given zone is pre-set to increase as the number of people in that zone increases (for example, zone 7a in Figure 3).

[0043] In this way, the control device 30 increases the amount of air supplied to each zone 7a to 7q as the number of people in that zone increases. As a result, the amount of air supplied to each zone 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) is individually adjusted based on the number of people, which helps to suppress uneven dew point in the air-conditioned room R1.

[0044] The relationship between the number of people in a zone and the amount of air supplied may be the same for each zone, or it may differ in a predetermined way for each zone; either is acceptable. Also, Figure 5C shows an example where the amount of air supplied to a given zone increases linearly as the number of people in that zone increases, but this is not the only example. For example, the amount of air supplied to a given zone may increase in stages (i.e., in a stepwise manner) as the number of people in that zone increases.

[0045] <Processing during normal operation> Figure 6 is a flowchart of the processes performed by the control unit during normal operation of the air conditioning system (see also Figure 4 as appropriate). Note that when "START" is displayed in Figure 6, the dehumidifier 10 and multiple fan filter units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, ... are assumed to be in operation. Also, although omitted in Figure 6, for each of the multiple zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) contained in the air-conditioned room R1, people present in that zone are detected based on the images captured by cameras 6a to 6q (person detection step).

[0046] In step S101, the control device 30 acquires each piece of data via the data acquisition unit 31. Specifically, for each of the multiple zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3), the control device 30 acquires the detection results of people present in that zone from the cameras 6a to 6q (people detection means). The control device 30 also acquires each detection value from sensors, including the dew point meter 14.

[0047] In step S102, the control device 30 calculates the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1. That is, the control device 30 calculates the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 based on data received from equipment (not shown) that manages entry and exit to the air-conditioned room R1.

[0048] In step S103, the control device 30 determines whether or not there has been a change in the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1. That is, the control device 30 determines whether the value of the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 calculated in step S102 has changed compared to the previous calculation result (the calculation result of the previous step S102 in the series of processes in Figure 6 which are repeated according to a predetermined schedule). If there has been a change in the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 in step S103 (S103: Yes), the control device 30 proceeds to step S104.

[0049] In step S104, the control device 30 changes the air supply volume and dew point temperature of the dehumidifier 10 to predetermined values. For example, if the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 increases, the control device 30 increases the airflow rate supplied from the dehumidifier 10 and lowers the dew point temperature of that air. This promotes dehumidification in the air-conditioned room R1, thereby suppressing an increase in humidity (higher dew point temperature) due to dehumidification by people in the air-conditioned room R1.

[0050] The airflow rate supplied from the dehumidifier 10 is adjusted by controlling the processing fan 13 (see Figure 2). For example, to increase the airflow rate from the dehumidifier 10, the control device 30 increases the rotation speed of the processing fan 13. The dew point temperature of the air supplied from the dehumidifier 10 is adjusted by controlling the regeneration fan 16 (see Figure 2) and the heater 15 (see Figure 2). For example, to lower the dew point temperature of the air supplied from the dehumidifier 10, the control device 30 increases the rotation speed of the regeneration fan 16 or increases the set temperature of the heater 15.

[0051] Furthermore, if the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 decreases, the control device 30 reduces the airflow rate supplied from the dehumidifier 10 and increases the dew point temperature of that air. By adjusting the airflow rate and dew point temperature supplied from the dehumidifier 10 in accordance with the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1, changes in humidity in the air-conditioned room R1 can be suppressed. The control device 30 may also appropriately adjust the range of change when changing the airflow rate and dew point temperature supplied from the dehumidifier 10 based on the detection values ​​of the sensors.

[0052] After the process in step S104 is completed, the control device 30 proceeds to step S105. Also, if there is no change in the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 in step S103 (S103: No), the control device 30 proceeds to step S105 without performing the process in step S104.

[0053] In step S105, the control device 30 calculates the number of people in each zone. That is, based on the images captured by cameras 6a to 6q (detection results in the "person detection step" described above), the control device 30 calculates the number of people present in each of the multiple zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) (number of people calculation step).

[0054] In step S106, the control device 30 determines whether there is a zone among the multiple zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) where the number of people has changed. If there is a zone where the number of people has changed in step S106 (S106: Yes), the control device 30 proceeds to step S107.

[0055] In step S107, the control device 30 changes the amount of air supplied to the zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) where the number of people has changed to a predetermined amount. That is, the control device 30 adjusts the amount of air supplied to each of the zones 7a to 7q when supplying the dehumidified air from the dehumidifier 10 based on the number of people calculated in step S105 (number of people calculation step) (air supply amount adjustment step).

[0056] The control device 30 then supplies air at a predetermined supply volume (adjusted supply volume) to zones 7a to 7q using a fan filter unit (supply volume adjustment device). By individually adjusting the supply volume based on the number of people in each zone 7a to 7q in this way, uneven dew point can be suppressed in the air-conditioned room R1.

[0057] Furthermore, even if the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 does not change (S103: No), if the number of people in a predetermined zone changes (S106: Yes), the control device 30 changes the amount of air supplied to the zone in response to this change in the number of people (S107). This suppresses uneven dew point in the air-conditioned room R1. Furthermore, for example, if people (moisture-generating elements) are concentrated in a designated zone, the amount of air that should be supplied to that zone (required airflow) may exceed the maximum airflow of the fan filter unit, while there may be very few people (fewer people than in the zone in question) in another zone adjacent to that zone. In such cases, the control device 30 should increase the air supply from the fan filter unit in the other zone. Here, the control device 30 ensures that the sum of the air supply amounts from the fan filter units in the zone and the other zone is greater than the amount of air that should be supplied to the zone (required airflow). This increases the amount of air supplied to the zone (the actual amount of air supplied, including air supplied from the adjacent zone), thereby suppressing uneven dew point in the air-conditioned room R1. Such control can also be applied to the commissioning process and emergency procedures described later. After the process in step S107 is completed, the control device 30 returns to "START" (RETURN). In this way, the series of processes shown in Figure 6 are repeated a predetermined number of times.

[0058] Figure 7A is the first explanatory diagram regarding the number of people present in each zone. Figure 7A shows a simplified example where four zones, 7α, 7β, 7γ, and 7δ, are set up in the air-conditioned room R1. In the example in Figure 7A, there is one person in zone 7α, and the remaining zones 7β, 7γ, and 7δ are empty. In this case, the control device 30 controls the dehumidifier 10 (see Figure 2) to achieve a predetermined supply air volume and dew point temperature. The control device 30 also appropriately controls the rotation speed of multiple fan filter units corresponding to each of the zones 7α, 7β, 7γ, and 7δ. The supply air volume to zone 7a, where there is a person, is set to be greater than that to zones 7β, 7γ, and 7δ, where there is no person.

[0059] Figure 7B is a second explanatory diagram regarding the number of people present in each zone. For example, suppose that two more people enter zone 7α from the state shown in Figure 7A, resulting in the state shown in Figure 7B (a total of three people in zone 7α). When the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 changes in this way (S103: Yes in Figure 6), and the number of people in zone 7α changes (S106: Yes), the control device 30 performs the following processing. That is, the control device 30 increases the flow rate of air supplied from the dehumidifier 10 and lowers the dew point temperature of that air.

[0060] Furthermore, the control device 30 increases the amount of air supplied to zone 7α, where the number of people has increased. On the other hand, since the number of people in the other zones 7β, 7γ, and 7δ has not changed from the state shown in Figure 7A, the control device 30 maintains the amount of air supplied to these zones 7β, 7γ, and 7δ without changing it. In other words, the control device 30 allocates the increased amount of air supplied from the dehumidifier 10 to zone 7α, where the number of people has increased. As a result, dehumidification in zone 7α is locally strengthened, which helps to suppress uneven dew point formation.

[0061] Figure 7C is a third explanatory diagram regarding the number of people present in each zone. For example, suppose that in the state shown in Figure 7B, one of the three people in zone 7α moves to another zone 7β, and another person moves to another zone 7γ. In this case, since the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 has not changed from the state shown in Figure 7B (S103: No in Figure 6), the control device 30 maintains the supply air volume and dew point temperature of the dehumidifier 10. Furthermore, for zone 7α where one person is present, the control device 30 reduces the supply air volume to zone 7α because the number of people has decreased from the state shown in Figure 7B. Also, for the other zones 7β and 7γ where one person is present, the supply air volume to these zones 7β and 7γ increases because the number of people has increased from the state shown in Figure 7B.

[0062] In this way, the control device 30 changes the distribution ratio of the air supply amount to zones 7α, 7β, and 7γ to a predetermined level in response to changes in the number of people. In the state shown in Figure 7C, the number of people in each of the three zones 7α, 7β, and 7γ is one, so the air supply amounts to these zones are assumed to be approximately equal. As for the remaining zone 7δ, the number of people (zero) has not changed from the state shown in Figure 7B, so it is maintained at a predetermined air supply amount (a value less than the air supply amounts to zones 7α, 7β, and 7γ).

[0063] <Processing during trial run> During the trial run of the air conditioning system 100 (see Figure 1), it is expected that more people will enter the air-conditioned room R1 than during normal operation, so the following procedures will be carried out. Note that "trial run" refers to a test operation conducted prior to the start of operation of the air conditioning system 100.

[0064] Figure 8 is a flowchart of the processes executed by the control unit during the commissioning of the air conditioning system (see also Figure 4 as appropriate). In step S201, the control device 30 determines whether or not data related to the trial run has been input. For example, as a trial run schedule, data relating the date and time of the trial run to the predicted number of people in each zone 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) during each time slot is input via an input device (not shown). The predicted number of people in zones 7a to 7q during the trial run is set appropriately based on the content of the trial run, etc.

[0065] In step S202, the control device 30 calculates a predicted total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 (see Figure 3) during the trial run. Specifically, the control device 30 calculates a predicted total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 by summing the predicted numbers of people in multiple zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) (predicted numbers for each time period during the trial run).

[0066] In step S203, the control device 30 sets the supply air volume and dew point temperature for the dehumidifier 10, as well as the supply air volume for each zone of the air-conditioned room R1. Specifically, the control device 30 sets the supply air volume and dew point temperature for the dehumidifier 10 based on the predicted total number of people in the air-conditioned room during each time period of the trial run (see Figures 5A and 5B). The control device 30 also sets the supply air volume for each zone 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) based on the number of people in each zone 7a to 7q during each time period of the trial run (see Figure 5C).

[0067] In step S204, the control device 30 determines whether it is a predetermined time before the start time of the trial run. The predetermined time is the time required for the air conditioning room R1 to stabilize at a low dew point state under predetermined air conditioning control (S205), and is set in advance. If it is not a predetermined time before the start time of the trial run in step S204 (S204: No), the control device 30 repeats the process of step S204. If it is a predetermined time before the start time of the trial run in step S204 (S204: Yes), the control device 30 proceeds to step S205.

[0068] In step S205, the control device 30 controls the dehumidifier 10 and each fan filter unit based on predetermined setting data (data set in step S203). In this way, if the predicted number of people present in each of the multiple zones during the trial run is input via an input device (not shown) (S201: Yes), the control device 30 drives the dehumidifier 10 and the fan filter unit (air supply volume adjustment device) before the start of the trial run based on the predicted number of people (S205). This makes it possible to set each of the zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) to a low dew point state based on the predicted number of people before the trial run starts. Therefore, it is possible to prepare for the situation in which many people enter the air-conditioned room R1 (see Figure 3) during the trial run.

[0069] In step S206, the control device 30 determines whether or not it is time to start the trial run. If it is not time to start the trial run in step S206 (S206: No), the control device 30 repeats the process in step S206. If it is time to start the trial run in step S206 (S206: Yes), the control device 30 proceeds to step S207.

[0070] In step S207, the control device 30 controls the dehumidifier 10 and the fan filter unit based on the actual number of people in each zone. That is, after the start of the trial run, the control device 30 drives the dehumidifier 10 and the fan filter unit (air supply volume adjustment device) based on the actual number of people present in each zone, instead of the predicted number of people in each zone. This allows for air conditioning to be adjusted to the actual number of people even if the predicted number of people in zones 7a to 7q during the trial run differs from the actual number of people in zones 7a to 7q.

[0071] In step S208, the control device 30 determines whether or not the trial run has ended. If the trial run has not ended in step S208 (S208: No), the control device 30 returns to step S207. If the trial run has ended in step S208 (S208: Yes), the control device 30 terminates the series of processes related to the trial run (END).

[0072] <Emergency procedures> For example, if a sudden malfunction occurs in equipment such as production equipment E1 (see Figure 1), or if the dehumidifier 10 (see Figure 1) malfunctions, such as stopping or deteriorating in performance, or if the effects of an earthquake or similar event extend to the air conditioning system 100 (see Figure 1), it is expected that more people (maintenance workers, etc.) will enter the air conditioning room R1 than during normal operation, and the following procedures will be carried out.

[0073] Figure 9 is a flowchart of the processes executed by the control unit in the event of an emergency with the air conditioning system (see also Figure 4 as appropriate). Note that at the "START" point in Figure 9, an emergency such as equipment malfunction may have occurred, or an emergency may not have occurred yet; either is acceptable. However, if an emergency has already occurred at the "START" point, it is assumed that maintenance vehicles or emergency vehicles such as fire trucks have not yet arrived at the site.

[0074] In step S301, the control device 30 determines whether or not data related to emergency operation has been input. Here, "emergency operation" refers to operation performed in emergencies such as when a sudden malfunction occurs in equipment such as production equipment E1 (see Figure 1), when the dehumidifier 10 (see Figure 1) stops or its performance deteriorates, or when the effects of an earthquake or the like extend to the air conditioning system 100 (see Figure 1). For example, as data related to emergency operation, predicted values ​​of the number of people entering each of zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) in an emergency are input.

[0075] Furthermore, if data input in step S301 is performed after an emergency has occurred, the amount of air supplied to the zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) in the air conditioning room R1 (see Figure 3) will be appropriately set so that it is relatively higher than that of the other zones. For example, the zone closest to the malfunction of production equipment E1 (see Figure 1) (the zone where many people are expected to enter). Furthermore, if a malfunction such as the dehumidifier 10 (see Figure 1) stops or its performance deteriorates occurs, the system is configured to supply air to the area where the dehumidifier 10 is stopped or experiencing performance deterioration via a bypass duct or the like (not shown) from another dehumidifier (not shown) in another area that is continuing to operate normally.

[0076] In step S302, the control device 30 calculates a predicted total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 (see Figure 3) in an emergency. Specifically, the control device 30 calculates a predicted total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 by summing the predicted numbers of people in multiple zones 7a to 7q (data entered in S301).

[0077] In step S303, the control device 30 sets the air supply volume and dew point temperature of the dehumidifier 10, and also sets the air supply volume to each of the zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3). That is, the control device 30 sets the air supply volume and dew point temperature of the dehumidifier 10 based on the predicted total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 in an emergency (see Figures 5A and 5B). In addition, the control device 30 sets the air supply volume for each of the zones 7a to 7q based on the predicted number of people in each of the zones 7a to 7q in an emergency (see Figure 5C).

[0078] In step S304, the control device 30 determines whether or not an emergency operation start command has been received. For example, an emergency operation start command may be automatically input to the control device 30 in response to the activation of an emergency bell or the like. Alternatively, an emergency operation start command may be input to the control device 30 through an operation by an administrator via an input device (not shown).

[0079] If there is no command to start emergency operation in step S304 (S304: No), the control device 30 repeats the process in step S304. If there is a command to start emergency operation in step S304 (S304: Yes), the control device 30 proceeds to step S305. It is assumed that a predetermined emergency has actually occurred before the command to start emergency operation is issued.

[0080] In step S305, the control device 30 performs a predetermined emergency operation by controlling the dehumidifier 10 and each fan filter unit in other areas or in the area in question, based on predetermined setting data (data set in the processing of step S303). Here, "the area in question" refers to the area (for example, the air conditioning room R1 in Figure 1) that is supplied with air during normal operation of a predetermined dehumidifier (for example, the dehumidifier 10 in Figure 1) that has experienced a malfunction such as stopping or performance deterioration. "Other areas" refers to the area that is supplied with air during normal operation of another dehumidifier (not shown) that is continuing to operate normally. For example, if a malfunction such as stopping or performance deterioration occurs in the dehumidifier 10 that was supplying air to the air conditioning room R1 as "the area in question", air may be supplied from another normal dehumidifier via a bypass duct or the like (not shown) as an emergency operation. This prevents the dew point environment in the air conditioning room R1 from deteriorating during the period when the dehumidifier 10 is malfunctioning. It should be noted that at the start of emergency operations, maintenance vehicles and emergency vehicles such as fire trucks will not yet have arrived at the scene.

[0081] Thus, if an estimated number of people present in each of the multiple zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) in an emergency is input via an input device (not shown) (S301: Yes), the control device 30 will operate the dehumidifier 10 and the fan filter unit (air supply volume adjustment device) based on the estimated number of people, even before the arrival of the maintenance vehicle or emergency vehicle (S305). This allows the predetermined air conditioning control to be started before the maintenance vehicle or emergency vehicle arrives on site, in preparation for a situation where many people will enter the air-conditioned room R1.

[0082] In step S306, the control device 30 determines whether or not a command to terminate emergency operation has been issued. A command to terminate emergency operation is issued, for example, by an administrator via an input device (not shown). If there is no command to terminate emergency operation in step S306 (S306: No), the control device 30 repeats the process in step S306. If there is a command to terminate emergency operation in step S306 (S306: Yes), the control device 30 terminates the series of processes related to emergency operation (END).

[0083] <Effects> According to this embodiment, the control device 30 individually sets the amount of air supplied to each of the multiple zones 7a to 7q in the air-conditioned room R1 based on the number of people present in each zone 7a to 7q. This suppresses localized increases in humidity in a given zone due to human dehumidification (resulting in uneven dew point in the air-conditioned room R1). Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decline in the quality of products produced by the production equipment E1.

[0084] Furthermore, by recording the number of people and the actual amount of air supplied in each of zones 7a to 7q as historical data, traceability regarding human moisture during the manufacturing process of a given product can be ensured. In addition, because the amount of air supplied is changed according to the number of people in each zone, the response speed in air conditioning can be increased compared to cases where the amount of air supplied is changed only based on detected values ​​of state variables such as temperature and dew point.

[0085] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the control device 30 starts air conditioning from before the start of trial operation based on the predicted number of people in zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 8). This makes it possible to suppress deterioration of the indoor environment due to human humidity even if a large number of people enter the air-conditioned room R1 during trial operation.

[0086] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the control device 30 performs a predetermined emergency operation based on the predicted number of people in zones 7a to 7q, even before maintenance vehicles or emergency vehicles arrive (see Figure 9). This makes it possible to suppress deterioration of the indoor environment due to human humidity, for example, even if a large number of people enter the air-conditioned room R1 due to a malfunction in the production equipment E1.

[0087] ≪Variations≫ Although embodiments of the air conditioning system 100 and air conditioning method related to this disclosure have been described above, the invention is not limited to this description and various modifications can be made. For example, in the embodiment described, the control device 30 adjusts the amount of air supplied to each zone 7a to 7q by adjusting the rotational speed of the fan of the fan filter unit, but it is not limited to this. For example, a configuration like that shown in Figure 10 is also possible.

[0088] Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram of an air conditioning system 100A according to a modified example. In the example shown in Figure 10, the outlet side of the dehumidifier 10 is connected to duct D3. This duct D3 branches into multiple ducts (two in the example of Figure 10) D4 and D5. The downstream end of duct D4 is connected to the intake side of fan filter units 1 and 2. Duct D3 is also equipped with a variable air volume control device 81 (VAV) as an "air supply volume adjustment device". These fan filter units 1 and 2 are arranged to supply air to a predetermined zone (not shown). The amount of air supplied to the fan filter units 1 and 2 is adjusted by the variable air volume control device 81.

[0089] Similarly, another variable airflow control device 82 is provided in another duct D5. The downstream end of duct D5 is connected to the intake side of fan filter units 3-5. These fan filter units 3-5 are arranged to supply air to a predetermined zone (not shown). Each zone of the air conditioning room R1 is associated with at least one variable airflow control device. The blower fans of each of the fan filter units 1-5 shown in Figure 10 are driven at a substantially constant rotational speed. The control device 30 controls the variable airflow control devices 81 and 82 based on the number of people in each zone. Specifically, the control device 30 controls the variable airflow control devices 81 and 82 so that the more people there are in a given zone, the greater the amount of air supplied to that zone. This configuration also produces the same effects as the embodiment. It should be noted that even if well-known dampers or the like are used instead of the variable airflow control devices 81 and 82, it is still possible to adjust the amount of air supplied to each zone.

[0090] Furthermore, although the embodiment described the case in which cameras 6a to 6q (see Figure 3) are used as "people detection means" to detect people in each zone, it is not limited to this. In other words, other devices such as infrared sensors may be used as "people detection means" to detect people in each zone.

[0091] Furthermore, in the embodiment, a case was described in which the control device 30 changes both the airflow rate and the dew point temperature supplied from the dehumidifier 10 when the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 changes (see Figure 6), but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, when the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 changes, the control device 30 may change either the airflow rate or the dew point temperature supplied from the dehumidifier 10 and maintain the other.

[0092] Furthermore, although the embodiment described a case in which the control device 30 changes the airflow rate and dew point temperature supplied from the dehumidifier 10 based on the total number of people in the air-conditioned room R1 (see Figure 6), it is not limited to this. For example, the processes in steps S102 to S104 in Figure 6 may be omitted as appropriate.

[0093] Furthermore, the control device 30 may set the amount of air supplied to each zone based on the number of people in each of the multiple zones and their activity levels. Here, "activity level" refers to the amount of moisture emitted by the human body ([g / person] or [kg / m³]). 2This refers to the amount of human activity in each of the multiple zones 7a to 7q, and is calculated based on the speed of human movement. For example, the control device 30 calculates the amount of human activity in each of the multiple zones 7a to 7q based on the detection results of cameras 6a to 6q (human detection means), and controls the fan filter unit (air supply volume adjustment device) based on this amount of activity. To give a specific example, as shown in Figure 7B, if there are three people in zone 7a, the control device 30 calculates the sum of the activity amounts of the three people, and the larger this sum of activity amounts, the more air is supplied to zone 7a. In this way, not only the number of people in each zone but also the amount of human activity can be reflected in the amount of air supplied. In the case of a configuration like that shown in Figure 10, the variable airflow control devices 81 and 82 (Figure) are to be controlled appropriately based on the number of people and their activity levels. Furthermore, considering the possibility that the airflow control of the fan filter unit may fluctuate unstably as a person (moisture-generating body) passes through each zone, the following control may be implemented. That is, the control device 30 may determine whether the air conditioning load is a steady load or an transient load based on the activity level described above, and perform control to suppress fluctuations in the airflow control of the fan filter unit based on the determination result.

[0094] Furthermore, the processing (air conditioning method) of the control device 30 may be executed as a predetermined program on a computer. The aforementioned program can be provided via a communication line, or it can be written to a predetermined recording medium and distributed.

[0095] Furthermore, AI (Artificial Intelligence) may be used as appropriate in the air conditioning control of the air conditioning room R1. For example, a predetermined period may be set as a learning period from the start of operation of the air conditioning system 100, during which the AI ​​learns how many people will be in each of the zones 7a to 7q (see Figure 3) on each day of the week and at each time of day. After the learning period has elapsed, the AI ​​may predict the number of people in advance. In this case, if the actual number of people based on the detection results of cameras 6a to 6q differs from the predicted value, the control device 30 will perform air conditioning control based on the actual number of people.

[0096] Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to embodiments and includes various modifications. For example, the embodiments are described in detail for illustrative purposes and are not necessarily limited to having all the configurations described. Furthermore, each of the aforementioned configurations, functions, processing units, processing means, etc., may be implemented in hardware, either partially or entirely, by designing them as integrated circuits, for example. Alternatively, each of the aforementioned configurations, functions, etc., may be implemented in software by having the processor interpret and execute programs that realize each function. Information such as programs, tables, and files that realize each function can be stored in memory, a recording device such as a hard disk or SSD (Solid State Drive), or a recording medium such as an IC card, SD card, or DVD. Furthermore, the control lines and information lines shown are those deemed necessary for explanatory purposes, and not all control lines and information lines are necessarily shown in the actual product. In reality, it can be assumed that almost all components are interconnected. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0097] 1,2,3,4,5 Fan filter unit (air supply volume adjustment device) 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h, 6k, 6m, 6n, 6p, 6q Camera (Human detection means) 7a,7b,7c,7d,7e,7f,7g,7h,7k,7m,7n,7p,7q zone 10 Dehumidifier 30 Control device 31 Data Acquisition Unit 32 Storage section 32a Zone setting information 32b Air Conditioning Settings Information 33 Control Unit 34 Data Output Section 81,82 Variable airflow control device (air supply volume adjustment device) 100, 100A Air Conditioning System R1 Air Conditioning Room R2 vestibule

Claims

1. For each of the multiple zones included in the air-conditioned room, a person detection means for detecting people present in that zone, A dehumidifier that removes moisture from the air, An air supply volume adjustment device that adjusts the amount of air supplied to each of the multiple zones when supplying air dehumidified by the dehumidifier, An air conditioning system comprising: a control device that calculates the number of people present in each of the multiple zones based on the detection results of the person detection means, and controls the air supply volume adjustment device based on the number of people.

2. The control device increases the airflow rate supplied from the dehumidifier as the total number of people in the air-conditioned room increases. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized by the following:

3. The control device lowers the dew point temperature of the air supplied from the dehumidifier as the total number of people in the air-conditioned room increases. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized by the following:

4. The control device increases the amount of air supplied to each zone as the number of people present in that zone increases. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized by the following:

5. The control device, even if the total number of people in the air-conditioned room remains unchanged, will change the amount of air supplied to a predetermined zone in response to the change in the number of people in that zone. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized by the following:

6. If, via an input device, a predicted number of people present in each of the multiple zones during a trial run is input, the control device will operate the dehumidifier and the air supply volume adjustment device based on the predicted number before the start of the trial run. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized by the following:

7. After the start of the trial run, the control device drives the dehumidifier and the air supply volume adjustment device based on the actual number of people present in each of the multiple zones, instead of the predicted value. The air conditioning system according to claim 6, characterized by the following:

8. If, via an input device, an estimated number of people present in each of the multiple zones during an emergency is input, the control device will operate the dehumidifier and the air supply volume adjustment device based on the estimated number of people before the arrival of a maintenance vehicle or emergency vehicle. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized by the following:

9. A person detection step for each of the multiple zones included in the air-conditioned room, which detects the presence of people in that zone, A person counting step that calculates the number of people present in each of the multiple zones based on the detection results in the person detection step, An air conditioning method comprising: an air supply volume adjustment step, which adjusts the amount of air supplied to each of the multiple zones when supplying dehumidified air from a dehumidifier to each zone based on the number of people calculated in the person calculation step.

10. A control device for setting the amount of air supplied to each of the multiple zones included in an air-conditioned room, The control device is For each of the multiple aforementioned zones, the detection result of people present in that zone is obtained from the person detection means. Based on the detection results of the person detection means, the number of people present in each of the multiple zones is calculated. A control device that sets the amount of air supplied to each of the aforementioned zones, when supplying dehumidified air from a dehumidifier, based on the number of people in that zone, and supplies the set amount of air to the zone using an air supply volume adjustment device.

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