Air conditioning system, method for controlling the air conditioning system, and program

Abstract

This disclosure provides an air conditioning system that can suppress the deterioration of comfort in an air-conditioned space. [Solution] The air conditioning system in this disclosure is an air conditioning system that air-conditions a space to be air-conditioned using an air conditioning device, and comprises an application unit that applies an automatic setting function to the air conditioning device to automatically set a set temperature that can suppress the energy consumption of the air conditioning device, and a determination unit that determines a change period for changing the application method of the automatic setting function, wherein the application unit changes the application method of the automatic setting function during the change period determined by the determination unit.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technique for automatically setting the set temperature of an air conditioner to suppress the energy consumption of the air conditioner is known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an air conditioner that determines a set temperature from the outside air temperature detected by an outside air temperature sensor according to a control parameter for determining the set temperature based on the outside air temperature and sets the determined set temperature.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides an air conditioning system, a control method for an air conditioning system, and a program that can suppress the comfort of the air-conditioned space from being impaired.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The air conditioning system in the present disclosure is an air conditioning system that air-conditions an air-conditioned space by an air conditioner, and includes an application unit that applies an automatic setting function for automatically setting a set temperature capable of suppressing the energy consumption of the air conditioner to the air conditioner, and a determination unit that determines a change period for changing the application method of the automatic setting function. The application unit changes the application method of the automatic setting function during the change period determined by the determination unit.

[0006] Furthermore, the control method for an air conditioning system in this disclosure is a control method for an air conditioning system that air-conditions a space to be air-conditioned using an air conditioning device, and comprises determining a change period during which the application method of an automatic setting function that automatically sets a set temperature capable of suppressing the energy consumption of the air conditioning device is changed, and changing the application method of the automatic setting function during the determined change period.

[0007] Furthermore, the program in this disclosure causes the computer of an air conditioning system that air-conditions a space to be air-conditioned by an air conditioning device to function as an application unit that applies an automatic setting function to the air conditioning device to automatically set a set temperature that can suppress the energy consumption of the air conditioning device, and a determination unit that determines a change period for changing the application method of the automatic setting function, wherein the application unit changes the application method of the automatic setting function during the change period determined by the determination unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The air conditioning system, control method for the air conditioning system, and program described herein can suppress any impairment of comfort in the air-conditioned space. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning system in Embodiment 1 [Figure 2] Diagram showing the configuration of the terminal device in Embodiment 1 [Figure 3] Diagram showing the configuration of the management server in Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] A diagram showing an example of the first management data in Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] A diagram showing an example of the second management data in Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] A diagram illustrating the updating of the number of actual results in Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] A diagram illustrating the update of the number of changes in Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] Flowchart showing the operation of the management server in Embodiment 1 [Figure 9] Flowchart showing the operation of the application unit in Embodiment 1 [Figure 10] A diagram showing an example of the collected data in Embodiment 1. [Figure 11] Flowchart showing the operation of the application unit in Embodiment 1 [Figure 12] Flowchart showing the operation of the management server in the first modified example of Embodiment 1. [Figure 13] Flowchart showing the operation of the management server in a second modified example of Embodiment 1. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] (Knowledge and other information that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time the inventors conceived of this disclosure, there was a technology that automatically set the temperature of an air conditioner in order to reduce the energy consumption of the air conditioner. However, if this automatic setting function is applied to an air conditioner without changing the application method, the comfort of the air-conditioned space may be impaired. For example, if the air conditioner is installed in a commercial facility, the number of visitors tends to increase during sales periods or special sale days. If the above function is applied to the air conditioner without changing the application method during such periods, the comfort of the air-conditioned space may be impaired due to the increase in the number of visitors. As in this example, if the above function is applied to an air conditioner without changing the application method, the comfort of the air-conditioned space may be impaired. The inventors discovered that conventional systems did not have a mechanism to address this problem, and in order to solve this problem, they came to form the subject of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure provides an air conditioning system, a control method for the air conditioning system, and a program that can suppress the deterioration of comfort in an air-conditioned space.

[0011] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, some unnecessarily detailed explanations may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. The attached drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0012] (Embodiment 1) [1-1. Configuration] [1-1-1. Configuration of the air conditioning system] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning system 1000. The air conditioning system 1000 is a system that air-conditions the conditioned space S by the air conditioner 1. The air conditioning of the conditioned space S includes cooling, heating, dehumidification, air supply, ventilation, etc. In the present embodiment, the case where the conditioned space S is cooled and heated by the air conditioner 1 will be described. The conditioned space S is a space of the facility H.

[0013] The air conditioning system 1000 of the present embodiment applies a function of automatically setting a set temperature that can suppress the energy consumption of the air conditioner 1 to the air conditioner 1. Hereinafter, this function will be referred to as the "automatic setting function".

[0014] The air conditioning system 1000 includes the air conditioner 1. In FIG. 1, the air conditioning system 1000 includes four or more air conditioners 1. Note that the number of air conditioners 1 included in the air conditioning system 1000 is not limited to four or more, and may be less than four. The air conditioner 1 includes an indoor unit 11 and an outdoor unit 12, performs air conditioning operation by the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 12, and air-conditions the conditioned space S where the indoor unit 11 is installed. The air conditioner 1 is connected to the network NW and communicates with devices connected to the network NW. The network NW is a communication network composed of a public line network, a dedicated line, the Internet, or other communication networks.

[0015] The air conditioning system 1000 includes a terminal device 2. The terminal device 2 is used by administrator P, who manages the air conditioning system 1. Administrator P may also manage facility H. The terminal device 2 shown in Figure 1 is a laptop computer, but it may be a tablet computer, a desktop computer, or a smartphone. The terminal device 2 is connected to a network NW. Administrator P is an example of a "user".

[0016] Terminal device 2 connects to the network NW and communicates with the management server 3, which will be described later. In this embodiment, terminal device 2 receives a request from administrator P for a period during which a change in the application method of the automatic setting function is to be requested (hereinafter referred to as the "change request period"), and sends the change request period data HD, which indicates the received change request period, to the management server 3. The change request period data HD contains the air conditioner ID (Identification), which is the identification information of the air conditioner 1.

[0017] The air conditioning system 1000 includes a management server 3 that manages the air conditioning unit 1. The management server 3 is connected to a network NW and processes information with the air conditioning unit 1 and terminal device 2 as clients.

[0018] The air conditioning system 1000 is equipped with a weather server 4. The weather server 4 is a server device that provides weather data. The weather data provided by the server includes at least a forecast value for the outside temperature of facility H. The forecast value for the outside temperature of facility H can be any forecast value corresponding to facility H. In other words, the forecast value for the outside temperature of facility H can be the forecast value for the outside temperature of the address of facility H, or it can be the forecast value for the outside temperature of the area where facility H is located, based on the address or postal code of facility H.

[0019] In each diagram, the management server 3 and the weather server 4 are represented by a single block. However, this does not necessarily mean that the management server 3 and the weather server 4 are composed of a single device. For example, the management server 3 and the weather server 4 may consist of multiple server devices with different processing functions, or they may be composed of the same server device.

[0020] [1-1-2. Configuration of the air conditioning system] Referring to Figure 1, the configuration of the air conditioning system 1 will be described. The air conditioning system 1 comprises an indoor unit 11, an outdoor unit 12, a remote control 13, and a communication device 14. The number of indoor units 11 and outdoor units 12 in the air conditioning system 1 may be multiple.

[0021] The indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 12 are connected by refrigerant piping and control wiring. Thus, in the air conditioning system 1, the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 12 constitute a refrigerant cycle.

[0022] The remote control 13 is installed on a wall or the like in the air-conditioned space S. The remote control 13 receives requests from the user of the air conditioning unit 1 to set at least the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1.

[0023] The communication device 14 is connected to the network NW and communicates with the management server 3. The communication device 14 also controls various parts of the air conditioning unit 1. Whenever the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1 is changed, the communication device 14 sends operation data RD to the management server 3.

[0024] Operation data RD is data indicating that an operation to change the set temperature has been received. Operation data RD records the air conditioner ID, date and time of change, type of air conditioner, set temperature before change, and set temperature after change. The change date and time is the date and time when the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 was changed. The air conditioning type is the type of air conditioning performed by the air conditioner 1, which in this embodiment indicates cooling or heating. The pre-change set temperature is the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 before the change. The post-change set temperature is the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 after the change.

[0025] The communication device 14 receives configuration data SD from the management server 3. The configuration data SD is data that instructs the air conditioner 1 to set a temperature, and the temperature to be set in the air conditioner 1 is recorded therein. The communication device 14 operates the air conditioner 1 at the temperature recorded in the received configuration data SD.

[0026] [1-1-3. Terminal Device Configuration] Figure 2 shows the configuration of terminal device 2. Terminal device 2 comprises a terminal control device 20, a terminal communication unit 21, a display unit 22, and an input unit 23.

[0027] The terminal control unit 20 is a device that controls various parts of the terminal device 2. The terminal control unit 20 includes a terminal processor 200 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and an MPU (Micro Processor Unit), terminal memory 210, and an interface circuit. Other devices and sensors of the terminal device 2 are connected to this interface circuit.

[0028] The terminal memory 210 is a memory that stores programs and data. The terminal memory 210 stores the control program 211 and data to be processed by the terminal processor 200. The terminal memory 210 has a non-volatile storage area. In addition, the terminal memory 210 has a volatile storage area that constitutes the work area of ​​the terminal processor 200. The terminal memory 210 is composed of, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory). The control program 211 may be a browser or an application program other than a browser.

[0029] The terminal communication unit 21 is equipped with communication hardware such as communication circuits that conform to a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with each device connected to the network NW.

[0030] The display unit 22 is equipped with a display composed of elements such as liquid crystal, LED (Light Emitting Diode), and OLED (Organic LED). The display unit 22 displays various information according to the control of the terminal control device 20.

[0031] The input unit 23 is equipped with an interface circuit for connecting to devices such as operation switches, touch input panels, mice, and keyboards, and detects the input operations of administrator P and outputs the detection results to the terminal processor 200.

[0032] The terminal processor 200 functions as a display control unit 201, a reception unit 202, and a terminal communication control unit 203 by reading and executing a control program 211 stored in the terminal memory 210.

[0033] The display control unit 201 causes the display unit 23 to display a specification screen. The specification screen is a screen for specifying the change request period.

[0034] The reception unit 202 accepts the specification of the change request period via the input unit 23 through the specification screen displayed by the display control unit 201. The reception unit 202 accepts the specification of one or more dates and time slots as the specification of the change request period. The reception unit 202 also accepts the specification of one or more days of the week and time slots as the specification of the change request period. Furthermore, the reception unit 202 accepts input of the air conditioner ID of the air conditioning unit 1 for which a change in the application method of the automatic setting function is requested.

[0035] The terminal communication control unit 203 communicates with the management server 3 via the terminal communication unit 21. When the reception unit 202 receives the specification of the change request period and the input of the air conditioner ID, the terminal communication control unit 203 sends the change request period data HD, which indicates the change request period received by the reception unit 202, to the management server 3. This change request period data HD includes the air conditioner ID received by the reception unit 202.

[0036] [1-1-4. Management Server Configuration] Figure 3 shows the configuration of the management server 3. The management server 3 comprises a server control device 30 and a server communication unit 31. The server control device 30 is an example of a "computer".

[0037] The server control device 30 includes a server processor 300 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), server memory 310, and interface circuits to which other devices and sensors are connected.

[0038] Server memory 310 is memory that stores programs and data. Server memory 310 stores control program 311, management DB (database) 312, and data processed by server processor 300. Server memory 310 has a non-volatile storage area. Server memory 310 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute the work area of ​​server processor 300. Server memory 310 is composed of, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory). Control program 311 is an example of a "program".

[0039] Management DB312 is a database that manages data related to air conditioning unit 1. Management DB312 has one record R for each air conditioning unit 1. Each record R contains the following information: air conditioner ID, change period, communication information, location of facility H, type of air conditioning, current set temperature, first management data MD1, and second management data MD2. The change period is the period during which the method of applying the automatic settings function is changed. The communication information is information for communicating with the air conditioning device 1, and is, for example, the address information of the communication device 14. The location of facility H is the location of facility H where the air conditioning system 1 is installed, and is, for example, the address of facility H. The currently set temperature is the temperature set in air conditioning unit 1. The first management data, MD1, is data that manages information related to changes in the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1 during cooling. The second management data, MD2, is data that manages information related to changes in the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1 during heating. Hereafter, when the first management data MD1 and the second management data MD2 are not distinguished, they will be referred to as "management data MD" with the designation "MD".

[0040] Figure 4 shows an example of the first management data MD1. The first management data MD1 records time periods in one-hour increments from 0:00 to 23:59. More specifically, the first management data MD1 records the corresponding time period from N:00 to N:59 for each hour from 0:00 to 23:00, where N is an integer between 0 and 23.

[0041] Furthermore, the first management data MD1 contains multiple outdoor temperatures recorded in 1°C increments. The range of outdoor temperatures recorded in the first management data MD1 includes at least the range of temperatures that the outdoor air at facility H can reach.

[0042] The first management data MD1 records one collection data AD for each pair of time period and outside temperature. The collection data AD is data that contains information related to the history of changes in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1. The collection data AD is data that collects various data within a predetermined range of the set temperature. The set temperature to be set in the air conditioner 1 is determined by the application unit 305, described later, from the predetermined range of the set temperature indicated by the collection data AD.

[0043] The collected data AD records the set temperatures of multiple air conditioning units 1 in 1°C increments within a predetermined range. In the example in Figure 4, the collected data AD records 23°C, 24°C, 25°C, 26°C, and 27°C. In other words, in the example in Figure 4, the predetermined range of set temperatures shown in the collected data AD is 23°C to 27°C.

[0044] The collected data AD records the number of actual sessions, the number of changes, and the probability of changes for each recorded set temperature. In the example in Figure 4, the collected data AD records the number of actual sessions, the number of changes, and the probability of changes for each of the following temperatures: 23°C, 24°C, 25°C, 26°C, and 27°C. The "number of occurrences" indicates the number of times the corresponding set temperature was set in the air conditioning unit 1. The number of changes indicates the number of times the temperature setting has been changed from one setting to another. The change probability indicates the probability that the temperature was changed from a corresponding set temperature to another set temperature. The change probability is calculated by dividing the number of corresponding changes by the number of actual changes.

[0045] Figure 5 shows an example of the second management data MD2. The second management data MD2 differs from the first management data MD1 in that the recorded collected data AD shows a different predetermined range of set temperature. The collected data AD recorded in the first management data MD1 has a predetermined set temperature range of 23°C to 27°C. In contrast, the collected data AD recorded in the second management data MD2 has a predetermined set temperature range of 18°C ​​to 23°C.

[0046] Returning to the explanation of Figure 3, the server communication unit 31 is equipped with hardware such as a communication circuit that conforms to a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with the air conditioning unit 1, the terminal device 2, and the weather server 4 according to the control of the server control device 30.

[0047] The server processor 300 functions as a server communication control unit 301, a determination unit 302, an acquisition unit 303, an update unit 304, and an application unit 305 by reading and executing the control program 311 stored in the server memory 310.

[0048] [1-1-4-1. Server Communication Control Unit] The server communication control unit 301 communicates with the air conditioning unit 1, the terminal device 2, and the weather server 4 via the server communication unit 31.

[0049] [1-1-4-2. Decision Section] The decision unit 302 determines the change period. When the server communication control unit 301 receives the change request period data HD from the terminal device 2, the decision unit 302 determines the change period to the change request period indicated in the change request period data HD.

[0050] [1-1-4-3. Acquisition Department] The acquisition unit 303 acquires the outside air temperature. The acquisition unit 303 selects one record R as the target of processing and acquires the outside temperature based on the record R to be processed. More specifically, the acquisition unit 303 generates forecast value request information based on the record R to be processed and outputs the generated forecast value request information to the server communication control unit 301. The forecast value request information is information that requests a forecast value of the outside temperature for a time period including the current time, and records the location of the facility H recorded in the record R to be processed and the time period to which the request is made. For example, if the current time is H hours and M minutes, the forecast value request information records the time period from H hours and 0 minutes to H+1 hours and 0 minutes. H is an integer from 0 to 24, and M is an integer from 0 to 59. When the server communication control unit 301 receives the forecast value request information from the acquisition unit 303, it transmits the received forecast value request information to the weather server 4. The server communication control unit 301 then receives multiple forecast values ​​from the weather server 4 that correspond to the location of the facility H and the time period recorded in the transmitted forecast value request information. The acquisition unit 303 calculates the average of the forecast values ​​received by the server communication control unit 301 and acquires the calculated average value as the outside air temperature. In this embodiment, when calculating the average of the forecast values, the acquisition unit 303 either truncates the decimal part or rounds it to the nearest whole number.

[0051] [1-1-4-4. Update section] The update unit 304 updates the management DB 312. The update unit 304 updates the actual count recorded in the collected data AD at L minutes past every hour. The update unit 304 updates the actual count for each record R. Here, L is an integer from 0 to 59, for example, 0. To elaborate on the updating of the actual count, at L minutes past every hour, the update unit 304 first causes the acquisition unit 303 to acquire the outside air temperature based on the record R to be processed. Next, the update unit 304 refers to the management data MD of the record R to be processed and identifies the collected data AD corresponding to the time period including the current time and the set of outside air temperature obtained by the acquisition unit 303. More specifically, if the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed is cooling, the update unit 304 identifies the collected data AD from the first management data MD1, and if the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed is heating, it identifies the collected data AD from the second management data MD2. Then, the update unit 304 increments the actual count corresponding to the currently set temperature recorded in the record R to be processed from the actual count recorded in the identified collected data AD. Furthermore, the update unit 304 also updates the change probability corresponding to the incremented actual number to a change probability that reflects the actual number after the increment.

[0052] Now, referring to Figure 6, we will explain how to update the actual figures. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the update of the performance figures.

[0053] The explanation in Figure 6 illustrates a case where the current time when updating the actual count is in the 2 PM hour, and the outside air temperature acquired by the acquisition unit 303 is 34°C. The explanation in Figure 6 also illustrates a case where the air conditioning unit 1 is operating in cooling mode. In the case of Figure 6, the update unit 304 identifies the collected data AD corresponding to the time period in the 2 PM hour and the outside air temperature of 34°C from the first management data MD1 recorded in the record R to be processed.

[0054] In the explanation of Figure 6, we illustrate the case where the current set temperature recorded in the record R to be processed is 25°C. That is, in the explanation of Figure 6, we illustrate the case where the set temperature set in the air conditioner 1 is 25°C. In the case of Figure 6, the update unit 304 increments the number of actual occurrences corresponding to 25°C from "4" to "5" among the actual occurrences recorded in the identified collected data AD. Also, in the case of Figure 6, along with the update of the actual occurrences, the update unit 304 updates the change probability corresponding to 25°C from "3 / 4" to "3 / 5".

[0055] Furthermore, the update of the update unit 304 will be explained. When the server communication control unit 301 receives operation data RD, the update unit 304 updates the management DB 312 based on the received operation data RD. The update unit 304 identifies the record R containing the air conditioner ID of the received operation data RD from the management DB 312. Next, the update unit 304 updates the current set temperature of the identified record R to the changed set temperature recorded in the received operation data RD. The update unit 304 also updates the air conditioner type of the identified record R to the air conditioner type recorded in the received operation data RD.

[0056] Furthermore, the update unit 304 causes the acquisition unit 303 to acquire the outside air temperature based on the record R identified by the received operation data RD. Next, if the received operation data RD contains information about the type of air conditioning (cooling), the update unit 304 identifies the collection data AD corresponding to the time period including the current time and the outside air temperature and temperature combination acquired by the acquisition unit 303, from the first management data MD1 of the identified record R. If the received operation data RD contains information about the type of air conditioning (heating), the update unit 304 identifies the collection data AD corresponding to the time period including the current time and the outside air temperature and temperature combination acquired by the acquisition unit 303, from the second management data MD2 of the identified record R. Next, the update unit 304 refers to the received operation data RD, and if the air conditioning type indicates cooling and the changed set temperature is lower than the changed set temperature, it increments the number of changes recorded in the identified collected data AD that corresponds to the changed set temperature recorded in the received operation data RD. Furthermore, the update unit 304 refers to the received operation data RD, and if the air conditioning type indicates heating and the changed set temperature is higher than the changed set temperature, it increments the number of changes recorded in the identified collected data AD that corresponds to the changed set temperature recorded in the received operation data RD. Furthermore, the update unit 304 also updates the change probability corresponding to the incremented number of changes to reflect the change probability after the increment.

[0057] Now, with reference to Figure 7, we will explain how to update the number of changes. Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the update of the number of changes.

[0058] The explanation in Figure 7 illustrates a case where the current time when updating the number of changes is in the 2 PM hour, and the outside temperature acquired by the acquisition unit 303 is 34°C. The explanation in Figure 7 also illustrates a case where the air conditioning unit 1 is operating in cooling mode. In the case of Figure 7, the update unit 304 identifies the collected data AD corresponding to the time period in the 2 PM hour and the outside temperature of 34°C from the first management data MD1 recorded in the record R to be processed.

[0059] In the explanation of Figure 7, an example is given where the pre-change setting temperature recorded in the received operation data RD is 25°C. Also, in the explanation of Figure 7, an example is given where the post-change setting temperature recorded in the received operation data RD is 24°C. In this example, the update unit 304 increments the number of changes corresponding to 25°C from "3" to "4" among the number of changes recorded in the identified collected data AD. In addition, in the case of Figure 7, the update unit 304 updates the change probability corresponding to 25°C from "3 / 4" to "4 / 4" along with the update of the number of changes.

[0060] Furthermore, when the server communication control unit 301 receives the change request period data HD, the update unit 304 updates the management DB 312 based on the received change request period data HD. The update unit 304 identifies the record R containing the air conditioner ID included in the received change request period data HD from the management DB 312. Next, the update unit 304 updates the change period of the identified record R to the change period determined by the determination unit 302.

[0061] [1-1-4-5.Applicable part] The application unit 305 applies the automatic setting function to the air conditioner 1. The application of the automatic setting function will be explained with reference to the flowchart described later. If the current date and time is within the change period, the application unit 305 changes the method of applying the automatic setting function. In this embodiment, changing the method of applying the automatic setting function means disabling the application of the automatic setting function, that is, not applying the automatic setting function.

[0062] [1-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each part of the air conditioning system 1000 according to Embodiment 1 will be described. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the management server 3.

[0063] The flowchart in Figure 8 is a flowchart that starts at K minutes past every hour. Here, K is an integer from 0 to 59, for example, 0. Furthermore, the flowchart in Figure 8 is a flowchart performed for each air conditioning unit 1. In other words, the flowchart in Figure 8 is an operation performed for each record R stored in the management DB 312.

[0064] The application unit 305 determines whether the current date and time, or the current day of the week and current time, fall within the change period recorded in the record R to be processed (step SA1).

[0065] Here, we will describe step SA1 in detail. For example, suppose the record R to be processed contains a modification period from 13:30 on July 13, 2025 to 18:30 on July 13, 2025. If, for example, the current date and time is 12:00 on July 13, 2025, the application unit 305 makes a negative determination in step SA1. If, for example, the current date and time is 14:00 on July 13, 2025, the application unit 305 makes a positive determination in step SA1. If, for example, the current date and time is 14:00 on July 14, 2025, the application unit 305 makes a negative determination in step SA1.

[0066] For example, suppose the record R to be processed has a modification period recorded from 13:30 on Saturday to 18:30 on Saturday. If, for example, the current day and time are 12:00 on Saturday, the application unit 305 makes a negative determination in step SA1. If, for example, the current day and time are 14:00 on Saturday, the application unit 305 makes a positive determination in step SA1. If, for example, the current day and time are 14:00 on Sunday, the application unit 305 makes a negative determination in step SA1.

[0067] If the application unit 305 determines that the current date and time, or the current day of the week and current time, is not within the change period recorded in the record R to be processed (step SA1: YES), the server processor 300 performs the processing in steps SA2 to SA5.

[0068] On the other hand, if the application unit 305 determines that the current date and time, or the current day of the week and current time, is within the change period recorded in the record R to be processed (step SA1: NO), the server processor 300 does not perform the processing in steps SA2 to SA5.

[0069] [1-2-1. If not within the change period] If the application unit 305 determines that the condition is negative in step SA1, the acquisition unit 303 acquires the outside temperature based on the record R to be processed (step SA2). Step SA2 will be described in detail below. The acquisition unit 303 generates forecast value request information based on the record R to be processed and outputs the generated forecast value request information to the server communication control unit 301. For example, if the current time is 10:00, the forecast value request information will contain the time period from 10:00 to 11:00. When the server communication control unit 301 receives the forecast value request information from the acquisition unit 303, it transmits the received forecast value request information to the weather server 4. The server communication control unit 301 then receives from the weather server 4 multiple forecast values ​​(for example, the forecast value for 10:00 and the forecast value for 11:00) corresponding to the location and time period of facility H recorded in the transmitted forecast value request information. The acquisition unit 303 calculates the average of the forecast values ​​received by the server communication control unit 301 and acquires the calculated average value as the outside air temperature.

[0070] Next, the application unit 305 identifies the collection data AD to be processed from the management data MD recorded in the record R to be processed (step SA3).

[0071] Step SA3 will be described in detail. If the air conditioning type of the record R2 to be processed indicates cooling, the application unit 305 identifies the collected data AD corresponding to the time period including the current time and the outdoor temperature and temperature acquired in step SA1 from the first management data MD1 recorded in the record R to be processed. If the air conditioning type of the record R2 to be processed indicates heating, the application unit 305 identifies the collected data AD corresponding to the time period including the current time and the outdoor temperature and temperature acquired in step SA1 from the second management data MD2 recorded in the record R to be processed.

[0072] Next, the application unit 305 performs a determination process (step SA4). The decision process is the process for determining the set temperature to be set in the air conditioning unit 1. In the decision process, the collected data AD identified in step SA3 is the target of processing.

[0073] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the application unit 305 in the decision process. The operation shown in Figure 9 is performed when the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed indicates cooling.

[0074] The application unit 305 determines whether the set temperature included in the predetermined range indicated by the collected data AD to be processed satisfies the following first condition (step SA41). Condition 1: There must be a first set temperature and a second set temperature.

[0075] The first set temperature is a set temperature where the corresponding change probability is above a predetermined threshold. An example of a predetermined threshold is 0.1 (10%). The second set temperature is the second lowest set temperature within a predetermined range, and the corresponding change probability is less than a predetermined threshold.

[0076] Here, we will explain the first set temperature and the second set temperature using Figure 4. The collected data AD shown in Figure 4 shows that a change probability of "0 / 3" is recorded for a set temperature of 23°C, a change probability of "0 / 1" is recorded for a set temperature of 24°C, a change probability of "3 / 4" is recorded for a set temperature of 25°C, a change probability of "2 / 3" is recorded for a set temperature of 26°C, and a change probability of "4 / 4" is recorded for a set temperature of 27°C.

[0077] When the predetermined threshold is 0.1, in the collected data AD shown in Figure 4, 25°C, 26°C, and 27°C correspond to the first set temperature, and 24°C corresponds to the second set temperature. Furthermore, the collected data AD shown in Figure 4 satisfies the first condition described above.

[0078] Returning to the explanation of the flowchart shown in Figure 9, if the application unit 305 determines that the first condition is met (step SA41: YES), it determines whether there are multiple second set temperatures among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed (step SA42).

[0079] If the application unit 305 determines that there are no multiple second set temperatures (step SA42: NO), it determines the second set temperature as the set temperature to be set on the air conditioner 1 (step SA43).

[0080] Here, we will explain step SA43 in detail using Figure 4. When the predetermined threshold is 0.1, in the collected data AD shown in Figure 4, 24°C is the second set temperature, and the other set temperatures do not correspond to the second set temperature. Therefore, when the predetermined threshold is 0.1 and the collected data AD to be processed is the collected data AD shown in Figure 4, the application unit 305 determines 24°C as the set temperature to be set for the air conditioner 1 in step SA43.

[0081] On the other hand, if the application unit 305 determines that there are multiple second set temperatures (step SA43: YES), it determines the second set temperature that best maximizes the comfort of the air-conditioned space S among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed as the set temperature to be set on the air conditioning unit 1 (step SA44).

[0082] The setting temperature that maximizes the comfort of the air-conditioned space S among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD is the lowest setting temperature among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD, when the air conditioning system 1 is performing cooling.

[0083] Now, with reference to Figure 10, step SA34 will be explained in detail. Figure 10 shows an example of collected data (AD). The collected data AD shown in Figure 10 records a change probability of "0 / 3" for a set temperature of 23°C, a change probability of "1 / 4" for a set temperature of 24°C, a change probability of "0 / 2" for a set temperature of 25°C, a change probability of "2 / 3" for a set temperature of 26°C, and a change probability of "4 / 4" for a set temperature of 27°C.

[0084] When the predetermined threshold is 0.1, in the collected data AD shown in Figure 10, 24°C, 26°C, and 27°C correspond to the first set temperature, and 23°C and 25°C correspond to the second set temperature. Therefore, when the predetermined threshold is 0.1 and the collected data AD to be processed is the collected data AD shown in Figure 10, the application unit 305 determines that the air conditioning system 1 is performing cooling and sets the second set temperature of 23°C as the set temperature to be set for the air conditioning system 1.

[0085] Returning to the explanation of step SA41, if the application unit 305 determines that the first condition is not met (step SA41: NO), it determines whether all of the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed are the first set temperature or the third set temperature (step SA45). The third set temperature is a set temperature in which the corresponding change probability is less than a predetermined threshold.

[0086] If the application unit 305 determines that all of the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed are first set temperatures (step SA45: first set temperature), it determines the set temperature that provides the highest comfort level for the air-conditioned space S among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed as the set temperature to be set on the air conditioning unit 1 (step SA46).

[0087] Returning to the explanation of step SA45, if the application unit 305 determines that all of the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed are third set temperatures (step SA45: third set temperature), it determines the set temperature that results in the smallest energy savings for the air conditioner 1 from among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed as the set temperature to be set for the air conditioner 1 (step SA47).

[0088] The setting temperature that results in the lowest energy consumption of the air conditioner 1 among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD is the highest setting temperature among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD, when the air conditioner 1 is performing cooling.

[0089] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the application unit 305 in the decision process. The operation shown in Figure 11 is performed when the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed indicates heating. In the explanation of Figure 11, the same reference numerals are used for the same steps as in Figure 9, and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0090] The application unit 305 determines whether the set temperature included in the predetermined range indicated by the collected data AD to be processed satisfies the following second condition (step SA51). Second condition: A third set temperature and a fourth set temperature must exist.

[0091] The third set temperature is a set temperature in which the corresponding change probability is less than a predetermined threshold. The fourth set temperature is the second lowest set temperature within a predetermined range, and the corresponding change probability is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0092] Now, using Figure 5, we will explain the fourth set temperature. The collected data AD shown in Figure 5 records a change probability of "4 / 4" for a set temperature of 18°C, a change probability of "2 / 3" for a set temperature of 19°C, a change probability of "1 / 4" for a set temperature of 20°C, a change probability of "0 / 2" for a set temperature of 21°C, a change probability of "0 / 3" for a set temperature of 22°C, and a change probability of "0 / 2" for a set temperature of 23°C.

[0093] When the predetermined threshold is 0.1, in the collected data AD shown in Figure 5, 21°C, 22°C, and 23°C correspond to the third set temperature, and 20°C corresponds to the fourth set temperature. Furthermore, the collected data AD shown in Figure 5 satisfies the second condition described above.

[0094] Returning to the explanation of the flowchart shown in Figure 11, if the application unit 305 determines that the second condition is met (step SA51: YES), it determines whether there are multiple third set temperatures among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed (step SA52).

[0095] If the application unit 305 determines that there are no multiple third set temperatures (step SA52: NO), it determines the third set temperature as the set temperature to be set on the air conditioner 1 (step SA53).

[0096] On the other hand, if the application unit 305 determines that there are multiple third set temperatures (step SA53: YES), it determines the third set temperature that best maximizes the comfort of the air-conditioned space S among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed as the set temperature to be set on the air conditioning unit 1 (step SA54).

[0097] The setting temperature that maximizes the comfort of the air-conditioned space S among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD is the highest setting temperature among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD when the air conditioning system 1 is performing heating.

[0098] Returning to the explanation of step SA51, if the application unit 305 determines that the second condition is not met (step SA51: NO), it performs the processing from step SB45 onward.

[0099] Furthermore, the setting temperature that results in the lowest energy consumption of the air conditioner 1 among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD refers to the lowest setting temperature among the setting temperatures recorded in the collected data AD when the air conditioner 1 is performing heating.

[0100] Returning to the explanation of the flowchart in Figure 8, the application unit 305 sets the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to the set temperature determined in the determination process of step SA4 (step SA5).

[0101] Step SA5 will be described in detail. The application unit 305 sets the set temperature determined in the determination process to the air conditioner 1. More specifically, the application unit 305 generates setting data SD and outputs the generated setting data SD and the communication information recorded in the record R to be processed to the server communication control unit 301. The generated setting data SD contains the set temperature determined in the determination process. Based on the communication information received from the application unit 305, the server communication control unit 301 transmits the setting data SD received from the application unit 305 to the communication device 14.

[0102] [1-2-1. If within the change period] If the application unit 305 makes a positive determination in step SA1, the server processor 300 does not perform the processing in steps SA2 to SA5. In other words, the application unit 305 disables the application of the automatic setting function. If it is within the change period, the air conditioner 1 will provide air conditioning at the set temperature set by the remote control 13.

[0103] [1-3. First Modification Related to Embodiment 1] Next, a first modified example relating to Embodiment 1 will be described. In this first modified example, the operation of the application unit 305 differs from that of the embodiment 1 described above.

[0104] In the first modified example relating to Embodiment 1, the application unit 305, when within the change period, does not disable the application of the automatic setting function, but changes the range of automatically configurable set temperatures from the first range to the second range, and applies the automatic setting function to the air conditioner 1 based on the changed range. The first range is the range of automatically configurable set temperatures when outside the change period, and is a predetermined range of set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD described above. The second range is a range different from the first range.

[0105] Here, the first and second ranges will be explained with reference to Figures 4 and 5. If the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed is cooling, that is, if the air conditioning unit 1 is operating in cooling mode, the first range is the range of 23°C to 27°C shown in Figure 4. If the air conditioning unit 1 is operating in cooling mode and the first range is 23°C to 27°C, the second range is, for example, the range of 23°C to 25°C. The second range is not limited to 23°C to 25°C, but may include multiple set temperatures on the more comfortable side of the first range, such as 23°C to 24°C. Here, the central set temperature refers to the average of the set temperatures included in the first range. The comfortable side set temperature refers to the set temperature at which the air-conditioned space S becomes cooler when the air conditioning unit 1 is operating in cooling mode. Furthermore, the second range may include setting temperatures that are more comfortable than the most comfortable setting temperature included in the first range. In this case, for example, if the first range is 23°C to 27°C, the second range is 22°C to 25°C. Furthermore, the second range may not be a range that includes multiple set temperatures, but rather a range that includes a single set temperature, such as 25°C.

[0106] If the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed is heating, that is, if the air conditioning unit 1 is operating in heating mode, the second range is the range of 18°C ​​to 23°C shown in Figure 5. Furthermore, if the air conditioning unit 1 is operating in heating mode and the first range is 18°C ​​to 23°C, the second range is, for example, the range of 21°C to 23°C. Furthermore, the second range is not limited to 21°C to 23°C, but may include multiple set temperatures on the more comfortable side of the first range, such as 22°C to 23°C. The set temperature on the more comfortable side refers to the set temperature at which the air-conditioned space S becomes warmer when the air conditioning unit 1 is operating in cooling mode. Furthermore, the second range may include setting temperatures that are more comfortable than the most comfortable setting temperature included in the first range. In this case, for example, if the first range is 18°C ​​to 23°C, the second range is 21°C to 24°C. Furthermore, the second range may not be a range that includes multiple set temperatures, but rather a range that includes a single set temperature, such as 22°C.

[0107] Next, referring to Figure 12, the operation of the first modified example relating to Embodiment 1 will be explained, highlighting the differences from Embodiment 1. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the operation of the management server 3. In Figure 12, the same reference numerals are used for the same steps as in Figure 8. Furthermore, in the explanation of each step in Figure 12, steps similar to those in Figure 8 are omitted as appropriate.

[0108] In the first modified example according to Embodiment 1, the application section 305 sets a second range (step SB1) if a positive determination is made in step SA1.

[0109] Next, the application unit 305 of the first modified example according to Embodiment 1 performs the processing of steps SA2 to SA4.

[0110] Next, the application unit 305 of the first modified example according to Embodiment 1 determines whether the set temperature determined in step SA4 is within the second range (step SB2).

[0111] In the first modified example according to Embodiment 1, if the application unit 305 determines that the set temperature determined in step SA4 is within the second range (step SB2: YES), it confirms the set temperature determined in step SA4 as the set temperature to be set on the air conditioner 1 (step SB3).

[0112] On the other hand, in the application section 305 of the first modified embodiment according to Embodiment 1, if it is determined in step SA4 that the temperature is not within the second range (step SB2: NO), the setting temperature that is closest to the setting temperature determined in step SA4 within the setting temperature range of the second range is determined as the setting temperature to be set on the air conditioner 1 (step SB4).

[0113] Next, the application unit 305 of the first modified example according to Embodiment 1 determines the set temperature to be set on the air conditioner 1, and then sets the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to the determined set temperature (step SB5). This setting in step SB5 is performed using the same method as in step SA5.

[0114] [1-4. Second Modification Related to Embodiment 1] Next, a second modified example relating to Embodiment 1 will be described. In this second modification, the operation of the application unit 305 differs from that of the first embodiment described above.

[0115] In the second modified example relating to Embodiment 1, the application unit 305, when within the change period, does not disable the application of the automatic setting function, but sets the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to a temperature that increases the comfort of the air-conditioned space S compared to the set temperature that is automatically set during periods other than the change period. The period other than the change period is the period during which the application method of the automatic setting function is not changed. Furthermore, the temperature that increases comfort refers to a temperature at which the temperature of the air-conditioned space S becomes colder when the air conditioner 1 is in cooling operation, and a temperature at which the temperature of the air-conditioned space S becomes warmer when the air conditioner 1 is in heating operation.

[0116] Next, referring to Figure 13, the operation of a second modified example relating to Embodiment 1 will be explained, highlighting the differences from Embodiment 1. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the operation of the management server 3. In Figure 13, the same reference numerals are used for the same steps as in Figure 8. Furthermore, in the explanation of each step in Figure 13, steps similar to those in Figure 8 are omitted as appropriate.

[0117] In the application section 305 of the second modified example according to Embodiment 1, if a positive determination is made in step SA1, the processes of steps SA2 to SA4 are performed.

[0118] Next, the application section 305 of the second modified embodiment according to the first embodiment determines the temperature at which the comfort of the air-conditioned space increases compared to the set temperature determined in step SA4 as the set temperature to be set on the air conditioning device 1 (step SC1).

[0119] Step SC1 will be described in detail. The application unit 305 determines the temperature that is on the comfort side by the smallest unit of the adjustable set temperature in the air conditioning unit 1 as the set temperature to be set in the air conditioning unit 1. For example, let's consider the case where the minimum unit is "1°C". In this example, if the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed is cooling, that is, if the air conditioning unit 1 is in cooling operation, when 25°C is determined in step SA4, the application unit 305 determines, for example, 24°C as the set temperature to be set for the air conditioning unit 1. Furthermore, in this example, if the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed is heating, that is, if the air conditioning unit 1 is operating in heating mode, then when 22°C is determined in step SA4, the application unit 305 determines, for example, 23°C as the set temperature to be set for the air conditioning unit 1.

[0120] In step SC1, the application unit 305 may determine the setting temperature to be set on the air conditioner 1 to be a temperature on the more comfortable side of the smallest unit of the set temperature that can be changed in the air conditioner 1. For example, suppose the smallest unit of changeable set temperature in the air conditioning unit 1 is "1°C". In this example, if the type of air conditioning in the record R to be processed is cooling, and 25°C is determined in step SA4, the application unit 305 will determine, for example, 23°C as the set temperature to be set in the air conditioning unit 1. Furthermore, for example, suppose the smallest unit of changeable set temperature in the air conditioning unit 1 is "1°C". In this example, if the type of air conditioning in the record R to be processed is heating, and 23°C is determined in step SA4, the application unit 305 will determine, for example, 25°C as the set temperature to be set in the air conditioning unit 1.

[0121] In the second modified example according to Embodiment 1, the application unit 305 determines the set temperature to be set in the air conditioner 1, and then sets the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to the determined set temperature (step SC2). This setting in step SC2 is performed using the same method as in step SA5.

[0122] [1-5. Effects, etc.] As described above, the air conditioning system 1000 that air-conditions the air-conditioned space S with the air conditioning device 1 includes an application unit 305 that applies an automatic setting function to the air conditioning device 1 to automatically set a set temperature that can suppress the energy consumption of the air conditioning device 1, and a determination unit 302 that determines a change period for changing the application method of the automatic setting function. The application unit 305 changes the application method of the automatic setting function during the change period determined by the determination unit 302.

[0123] According to this, it becomes possible to set a period for changing the application method of the automatic setting function. Therefore, the application method of the automatic setting function can be changed during a period when the comfort of the air-conditioned space S would be compromised if it were not changed. Thus, the compromise of the comfort of the air-conditioned space S can be suppressed.

[0124] Changing how the automatic configuration function is applied means disabling the application of the automatic configuration function.

[0125] According to this, it becomes possible to set a period during which the application of the automatic setting function is disabled, thereby further suppressing any deterioration in the comfort of the air-conditioned space S.

[0126] The air conditioning system 1000 includes an air conditioning unit 1. During the changeover period, the air conditioning unit 1 provides air conditioning at a set temperature set by the remote control 13.

[0127] According to this, during the change period, the set temperature of the air-conditioned space S can be set to the temperature intended by the user of the air conditioning unit 1 (including the administrator P and the users of the air-conditioned space S), thus further suppressing any deterioration in the comfort of the air-conditioned space S.

[0128] Changing the method of applying the automatic setting function means changing the range of settable temperatures that can be automatically set in the air conditioner 1 from the first range to the second range.

[0129] According to this, during the change period, the range of automatically settable temperatures for the air conditioning unit 1 can be set to a range corresponding to the change period. Therefore, an appropriate set temperature can be automatically set during periods when the comfort of the air-conditioned space may be compromised if the method of applying the automatic setting function is not changed. Thus, the deterioration of the comfort of the air-conditioned space S can be further suppressed.

[0130] Changing the method of applying the automatic setting function means setting the temperature automatically set to the air conditioning unit 1 to a temperature that provides greater comfort to the air-conditioned space S than the temperature automatically set during periods other than the change period.

[0131] According to this, if the method of applying the automatic setting function is not changed, the system will be able to automatically set a temperature that enhances the comfort of the air-conditioned space S during periods when the comfort of the air-conditioned space S would be compromised. Therefore, the deterioration of the comfort of the air-conditioned space S can be further suppressed.

[0132] The temperature at which comfort in the air-conditioned space S is increased is a temperature that is on the more comfortable side of the smallest unit of the adjustable temperature range in the air conditioning unit 1, compared to the automatically set temperature during periods other than the change period.

[0133] According to this, the air conditioner 1 can be automatically set to a temperature that is on the more comfortable side than the smallest unit of temperature that can be changed in the air conditioner 1, based on the set temperature that is automatically set during periods other than the change period. Therefore, it is possible to increase the likelihood that the user of the air conditioner 1 will be able to experience comfort in the air-conditioned space S during the change period. Thus, it is possible to further suppress any deterioration in the comfort of the air-conditioned space S.

[0134] The decision unit 302 determines the period specified by administrator P as the change period.

[0135] According to this, the method of applying the automatic setting function can be changed for the period desired by the administrator P, thereby preventing the comfort of the air-conditioned space S from being compromised during the period desired by the administrator P.

[0136] The control method for the air conditioning system 1000 determines a change period during which the application method of the automatic setting function to the air conditioning device 1 is changed, and changes the application method of the automatic setting function during the determined change period.

[0137] According to this, it produces the same effect as the air conditioning system 1000 described above.

[0138] The control program 311 causes the server control device 30 to function as an application unit 305 and a determination unit 302. The application unit 305 changes the method of applying the automatic setting function during the change period determined by the determination unit 302.

[0139] According to this, it produces the same effect as the air conditioning system 1000 described above.

[0140] (Embodiment 2) Next, Embodiment 2 will be described. Embodiment 2 will primarily describe the differences from Embodiment 1.

[0141] [2-1. Structure] In Embodiment 1, the decision unit 302 determines the change period to a period specified by the administrator P. In Embodiment 2, the decision unit 302 determines the change period based on weather conditions.

[0142] In Embodiment 2, the weather server 4 distributes weather data. This distributed weather data includes information such as the period during which sudden heavy rain is predicted to occur and the areas in which sudden heavy rain is predicted to occur. In addition, this distributed weather data includes information such as the period during which large changes in outside temperature are predicted and the areas in which large changes in outside temperature are predicted.

[0143] The decision unit 302 determines the change period based on the weather data each time the server communication control unit 301 receives weather data from the weather server 4. For example, if the received weather data includes a period during which sudden heavy rain is predicted to occur, the determination unit 302 determines that the period recorded in the weather data is a period of large changes in outside temperature, and therefore determines that the period recorded in the weather data is the change period. Furthermore, for example, if the received weather data includes a period during which large changes in outside temperature are predicted, the determination unit 302 determines that the period recorded in the weather data is the change period.

[0144] Once the decision unit 302 determines the change period, the update unit 304 identifies record R from the management DB 312, which contains the location of facility H, indicating its location within the region as recorded in the received weather data. Next, the update unit 304 updates the change period of the identified record R to the change period determined by the decision unit 302.

[0145] [2-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each part of the management server 3 according to Embodiment 2 will be described. The operation of each part of the management server 3 in Embodiment 2 is the same as the operation described in Embodiment 1.

[0146] [2-3. First Modification According to Embodiment 2] Next, a first modified example relating to Embodiment 2 will be described. The first modification according to Embodiment 2 is the same as the first modification according to Embodiment 1.

[0147] [2-4. Second Modification Related to Embodiment 2] Next, a second modified example relating to Embodiment 2 will be described. The second modification according to Embodiment 2 is the same as the second modification according to Embodiment 1.

[0148] [2-5. Effects, etc.] As explained above, the decision unit 302 determines the change period based on weather conditions.

[0149] According to this, since the change period is determined based on weather conditions, the period during which the comfort of the air-conditioned space S may be impaired due to changes in outside air temperature can be determined as the change period. Therefore, the method of applying the automatic setting function can be changed during the period during which the comfort of the air-conditioned space S may be impaired due to changes in outside air temperature, thereby suppressing the impairment of comfort in the air-conditioned space S during that period.

[0150] (Embodiment 3) Next, Embodiment 3 will be described. Embodiment 3 will primarily describe the differences from Embodiment 1.

[0151] [3-1. Structure] In Embodiment 1, the determination unit 302 determines the change period to a period specified by the administrator P. In Embodiment 3, the determination unit 302 determines the change period based on the history of temperature setting change operations.

[0152] Although not shown in the diagram, in Embodiment 3, each record R in the management DB 312 contains stored data that stores operation data RD for a predetermined period from the current date and time (for example, one day or one week). The operation data RD stored in this stored data is updated appropriately.

[0153] The determination unit 302 performs the following processing for each record R to determine the change period. The determination unit 302 refers to multiple operation data RDs stored in the data of the record R to be processed, and identifies a time period in which there has been no change operation of the set temperature for a predetermined period (e.g., 3 hours), and after this predetermined period, the set temperature has been significantly changed to the comfortable side by a predetermined temperature (e.g., 2°C) or more. In other words, the determination unit 302 identifies the time from when a certain change operation was performed to when the next change operation, performed after a predetermined period from the previous change operation, was performed and the temperature was changed to the comfortable side by a predetermined temperature or more. This identification is performed based on the change date and time and the changed set temperature recorded in the operation data RD. Next, the determination unit 302 determines the identified time period as the change period. If this identification is not possible, the determination unit 302 does not determine a change period.

[0154] Once the decision unit 302 determines the change period, the update unit 304 identifies the record R that the decision unit 302 has targeted for processing from the management DB 312 and updates the change period of the identified record R to the change period determined by the decision unit 302.

[0155] [3-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each part of the management server 3 according to Embodiment 3 will be described. The operation of each part of the management server 3 according to Embodiment 3 is the same as the operation described in Embodiment 1.

[0156] [3-3. First Modified Example According to Embodiment 3] Next, a first modified example relating to Embodiment 3 will be described. The first modification according to Embodiment 3 is the same as the first modification according to Embodiment 1.

[0157] [3-4. Second Modification Related to Embodiment 3] Next, a second modified example relating to Embodiment 3 will be described. The second modification according to Embodiment 3 is the same as the second modification according to Embodiment 1.

[0158] [3-5. Effects, etc.] As explained above, the determination unit 302 determines the change period based on the history of temperature change operations.

[0159] According to this, the change period is determined based on the history of temperature setting changes, so the period during which the user of the air conditioning system 1 (administrator P or user of the air-conditioned space S) requested a change in the temperature setting can be determined as the change period. For example, the determination unit 302 can determine the period during which the user wanted to change the temperature to a more comfortable level but did not have the time to do so as the change period. Therefore, it is possible to suppress any deterioration in the comfort of the air-conditioned space S and to increase the likelihood of meeting the user's requests regarding the temperature setting of the air conditioning system 1.

[0160] (Embodiment 4) Next, Embodiment 4 will be described. Embodiment 4 will primarily describe the differences from Embodiments 2 and 3.

[0161] [4-1. Structure] In embodiments 2 and 3, once the decision unit 302 determines the change period, it applies the determined change period to the management DB 312 without notifying the administrator P of the change period determined by the decision unit 302. On the other hand, in Embodiment 4, once the decision unit 302 determines the change period, it notifies the administrator P of the determined change period, and when the administrator P gives an instruction to change the application method of the automatic setting function, the decision unit 302 applies the determined change period to the management DB 312.

[0162] Once the decision unit 302 determines the change period, the server communication control unit 301 sends inquiry information to the terminal device 2 based on the communication information of the record R that the decision unit 302 has processed. The inquiry information is a query asking whether or not to change the method of applying the automatic setting function during the change period determined by the decision unit 302. The inquiry information contains the change period determined by the decision unit 302.

[0163] When the terminal communication control unit 203 receives inquiry information, the display control unit 201, based on the received inquiry information, notifies the change period via the display unit 22 and inquires whether or not to change the method of applying the automatic setting function during the change period.

[0164] Next, if the reception unit 202 receives input indicating that the method of applying the automatic setting function will not be changed, the terminal communication control unit 203 sends information to the management server 3 indicating that the method of applying the automatic setting function will not be changed. On the other hand, if the reception unit 202 receives input indicating that the method of applying the automatic setting function will be changed, the terminal communication control unit 203 sends information to the management server 3 indicating that the method of applying the automatic setting function will be changed.

[0165] When the update unit 304 receives information indicating that the server communication control unit 301 is changing the method of applying the automatic setting function, it identifies the record R that the decision unit 302 has targeted for processing from the management DB 312, and updates the change period of the identified record R to the change period determined by the decision unit 302.

[0166] [4-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each part of the management server 3 according to Embodiment 4 will be described. The operation of each part of the management server 3 in Embodiment 4 is the same as the operation described in Embodiment 1.

[0167] [4-3. First Modification According to Embodiment 4] Next, a first modified example relating to Embodiment 4 will be described. The first modification according to Embodiment 4 is the same as the first modification according to Embodiment 1.

[0168] [4-4. Second Modification Related to Embodiment 4] Next, a second modified example relating to Embodiment 4 will be described. The second modification according to Embodiment 4 is the same as the second modification according to Embodiment 1.

[0169] [4-5. Effects, etc.] As explained above, in this embodiment, the change period is notified to administrator P, and when administrator P instructs to change the method of applying the automatic setting function, the decision unit 302 applies the determined change period to the management DB 312.

[0170] This prevents administrator P from unintentionally changing how the automatic configuration function is applied.

[0171] (Other embodiments) As described above, embodiments 1, 2, 3, and 4 have been explained as examples disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited thereto and can be applied to embodiments that have been modified, replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, it is possible to create new embodiments by combining the components described in embodiments 1, 2, 3, and 4. Therefore, other embodiments are described below as examples.

[0172] In other embodiments, the determination unit 302 may automatically determine the change period based on the setting of the pre-cooling or pre-heating operation. These other embodiments will be described. When administrator P operates terminal device 2 and inputs the start time for pre-cooling or pre-heating operation, the set temperature, and the start time of occupancy into terminal device 2, the determination unit 302 determines the change period based on this input information. For example, if the start time for pre-cooling or pre-heating operation is 08:00 and the start time of occupancy is 09:00, the determination unit 302 determines the change period to be from 08:00 to 09:00. Then, the application unit 305 disables the application of the automatic setting function during the change period determined by the determination unit 302.

[0173] In the other embodiments described above, the management server 3 may determine, based on the multiple operation data RDs it receives, whether there is a tendency for cooling or heating operation to be performed at a specific time, and if it determines that such a tendency exists, it may recommend to the administrator P that pre-cooling or pre-heating operation be set. For example, if there is a tendency for pre-cooling operation to be performed around 09:00, the management server 3 may recommend to the administrator P that the start time for pre-cooling operation be set to 08:00 and the start time for occupancy be set to 09:00. In addition, in the other embodiments described above, the management server 3 may determine, based on the multiple operation data RDs it receives, whether there is a tendency for cooling or heating operation to be performed at a specific time, and if it determines that such a tendency exists, it may automatically set the start time for pre-cooling or pre-heating operation and the start time for occupancy be set. For example, if there is a tendency for pre-cooling operation to be performed around 09:00, the management server 3 will automatically set the start time for pre-cooling operation to 08:00 and the start time for occupancy be set to 09:00.

[0174] In the other embodiments described above, if administrator P sets the start time for pre-cooling or pre-heating but does not set the start time for being present in the room, the following configuration may be used. That is, the management server 3 determines, based on the operation data RD, whether there is a tendency for the remote control 13 to be operated during the same time period after the start time for pre-cooling or pre-heating, and if there is such a tendency, it recommends that administrator P set the start time for being present in the room. Alternatively, the management server 3 may determine, based on the operation data RD, whether there is a tendency for the remote control 13 to be operated during the same time period after the start time for pre-cooling or pre-heating, and automatically set the time period during which such a tendency occurs as the start time for being present in the room.

[0175] In the other embodiments described above, if administrator P sets the start time for pre-cooling or pre-heating operation and the start time for being present in the room, the following configuration may be used. That is, the management server 3 determines, based on the operation data RD, whether there is a tendency for the remote control 13 to be operated during the same time period after the start time for pre-cooling or pre-heating operation. Then, if there is such a tendency, and the time when the remote control 13 is operated differs from the start time for being present in the room by a predetermined time (e.g., 30 minutes) or more, the management server 3 modifies the start time for being present in the room to the time when the remote control is operated, or proposes such modification to administrator P.

[0176] In the embodiment described above, an example was given in which administrator P specifies the change request period using terminal device 2. In other embodiments, administrator P may specify the change request period using remote control 13. In this case, the remote control 13 is equipped with a display, operation keys, etc. Furthermore, if the change request period can be specified using remote control 13, the "user" who specifies the change request period is not limited to administrator P, but may be a user of the air-conditioned space S.

[0177] In the embodiment described above, the parameter for determining the set temperature to be set in the air conditioning system 1 includes the outside air temperature. In other embodiments, the parameter may include, instead of or in conjunction with the outside air temperature, the outside air humidity, the amount of solar radiation in a predetermined area including the location of facility H, the amount of precipitation in a predetermined area including the location of facility H, etc.

[0178] Figures 4 and 5 illustrate a predetermined range indicated by the collected data AD. However, this predetermined range shown in Figures 4 and 5 is merely an example and may be the range of settable temperatures that the air conditioner 1 can set, or it may be the range that the user is expected to set within the range of settable temperatures that the air conditioner 1 can set.

[0179] In the embodiment described above, the multiple set temperatures included in the predetermined range indicated by the collected data AD are set temperatures in 1°C increments. In other embodiments, the increment of the set temperatures included in the predetermined range is not limited to 1°C, but may be, for example, 0.5°C increments.

[0180] In other embodiments, at least one of the functions of the determination unit 302, acquisition unit 303, update unit 304, and application unit 305 may be executed not by the server control device 30, but by a control device that controls each part of the terminal device 2 or a control device that controls each part of the air conditioning system 1 (for example, a communication device 14). In these other embodiments, the control devices that control each part of the terminal device 2 or the control devices that control each part of the air conditioning system 1 correspond to a "computer". Also in these other embodiments, a program for realizing at least one of the functions of the determination unit 302, acquisition unit 303, update unit 304, and application unit 305, which is executed by a control device that controls each part of the terminal device 2 or the control device that controls each part of the air conditioning system 1, corresponds to a "program". Also in these other embodiments, the memory of the control device that controls the terminal device 2 or the air conditioning system 1 may store the management data MD. Furthermore, when the control device that controls each part of the air conditioning unit 1 functions as the application unit 305, the application unit 305 sets the set temperature for the air conditioning unit 1 by controlling each part of the air conditioning unit 1. In other words, in this case, the application unit 305 does not generate the setting data SD.

[0181] In the embodiment described above, the first management data MD1 stores the number of changes for each pair of time period and ambient temperature. In other embodiments, instead of storing the number of changes for each pair of time period and ambient temperature, the server memory 310 may store the number of changes for each set temperature for each time period. In this other embodiment, the application unit 305 determines the set temperature based on the number of changes corresponding to the time period.

[0182] In the embodiment described above, the set temperature is determined based on the time period including the current time and the number of changes that match the ambient temperature acquired by the acquisition unit 303. In other words, in the embodiment described above, the set temperature is determined based on the number of changes that match the current conditions. In other embodiments, the set temperature may also be determined by considering the number of changes that are close to the current conditions (for example, the number of changes of ±1°C relative to the ambient temperature acquired by the acquisition unit 302).

[0183] In the embodiment described above, when there are multiple second and third set temperatures, the setting temperature that maximizes the comfort of the air-conditioned space S is determined as the set temperature to be set. However, the setting temperature that minimizes the energy consumption of the air conditioning device 1 may also be determined as the set temperature to be set.

[0184] The terminal processor 200 and the server processor 300 may consist of a single processor or multiple processors. These processors may also be hardware programmed to implement the corresponding functional units. That is, these processors may consist of, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0185] The configurations of the terminal device 2 and management server 3 shown in Figures 2 and 3 are examples, and the specific implementation is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessarily required that hardware corresponding to each part be implemented individually; it is also possible to configure the system so that a single processor executes programs to realize the functions of each part. Furthermore, some of the functions realized by software in the above-described embodiment may be implemented by hardware, or some of the functions realized by hardware may be implemented by software.

[0186] The operational step units shown in Figures 8, 9, 11, 12, and 13 are divided according to the main processing content to facilitate understanding of the operation, and the operation is not limited by the way the processing units are divided or the names of the processing units. Depending on the processing content, it may be further divided into more step units. Alternatively, it may be divided so that one step unit includes even more processing. Furthermore, the order of the steps may be changed as appropriate, as long as it does not impede the intent of this disclosure.

[0187] Since the embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes only, various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc., can be made within the claims or their equivalents.

[0188] (Note) Based on the above description of embodiments, the following technologies are disclosed.

[0189] (Technology 1) An air conditioning system that air-conditions a space using an air conditioning device, comprising: an application unit that applies an automatic setting function to the air conditioning device to automatically set a set temperature that can suppress the energy consumption of the air conditioning device; and a determination unit that determines a change period for changing the method of applying the automatic setting function, wherein the application unit changes the method of applying the automatic setting function during the change period determined by the determination unit. This allows for a period during which the application method of the automatic setting function can be changed. Therefore, the application method of the automatic setting function can be changed during a period when failure to do so would compromise the comfort of the air-conditioned space. Thus, the compromise of comfort in the air-conditioned space can be suppressed.

[0190] (Technology 2) The air conditioning system according to Technical 1, wherein changing the method of applying the automatic setting function means disabling the application of the automatic setting function. This allows for periods during which the automatic setting function is disabled, thereby further reducing the impact on comfort in the air-conditioned space.

[0191] (Technology 3) The air conditioning system according to Technology 2, comprising the aforementioned air conditioning device, wherein the air conditioning device provides air conditioning at a set temperature set by a remote control during the change period. According to this, during the change period, the set temperature of the air-conditioned space can be set to the temperature intended by the user of the air conditioning system, thus further suppressing any deterioration in the comfort of the air-conditioned space.

[0192] (Technology 4) The air conditioning system according to Technical Reference 1, wherein changing the method of applying the automatic setting function means changing the range of settable temperatures that can be automatically set in the air conditioning device from a first range to a second range. According to this, during the change period, the range of automatically settable temperatures for the air conditioning system can be set to a range corresponding to the change period. Therefore, during periods when the comfort of the air-conditioned space may be compromised if the method of applying the automatic setting function is not changed, an appropriate temperature can be automatically set. Thus, the deterioration of comfort in the air-conditioned space can be further suppressed.

[0193] (Technology 5) The air conditioning system according to Technical Reference 1, wherein changing the method of applying the automatic setting function means setting the set temperature automatically to the air conditioning device to a temperature that increases the comfort of the air-conditioned space compared to the set temperature automatically set during periods other than the change period. According to this, if the method of applying the automatic setting function is not changed, the system will be able to automatically set a temperature that enhances the comfort of the air-conditioned space during periods when the comfort of the air-conditioned space would be compromised. Therefore, the deterioration of the comfort of the air-conditioned space can be further suppressed.

[0194] (Technology 6) The air conditioning system according to Technical 5, wherein the temperature at which the comfort of the air-conditioned space is increased is a temperature that is on the more comfortable side of the smallest unit of the set temperature that can be changed in the air conditioning device, from the set temperature that is automatically set during periods other than the change period. According to this, the air conditioner can be automatically set to a temperature that is more comfortable than the smallest unit of temperature that can be changed by the air conditioner, based on the set temperature that is automatically set during periods other than the change period. Therefore, it is possible to increase the likelihood that the user of the air conditioner will be able to experience comfort in the air-conditioned space during the change period. Thus, it is possible to further suppress any deterioration in the comfort of the air-conditioned space.

[0195] (Technology 7) The air conditioning system according to any one of the technologies 1 to 6, wherein the determination unit determines the change period to a period specified by the user of the air conditioning device. According to this, the method of applying the automatic setting function can be changed for the period desired by the user of the air conditioning system, thereby preventing the comfort of the air-conditioned space from being compromised during the period desired by the user of the air conditioning system.

[0196] (Technology 8) The aforementioned determination unit determines the change period based on weather conditions, according to any one of the technologies 1 to 6 of the air conditioning system. According to this, since the change period is determined based on weather conditions, the period during which the comfort of the air-conditioned space may be compromised due to changes in outside temperature can be determined as the change period. Therefore, the method of applying the automatic setting function can be changed during the period during which the comfort of the air-conditioned space may be compromised due to changes in outside temperature, thereby suppressing the compromise of comfort in the air-conditioned space during that period.

[0197] (Technology 9) The air conditioning system according to any one of the technologies 1 to 6, wherein the determination unit determines the change period based on the history of operations to change the set temperature. According to this, the change period is determined based on the history of temperature setting changes, allowing the system to determine the period during which the air conditioner user requested a change in the temperature setting. For example, the determination unit can determine the period during which the user wanted to change the temperature to a more comfortable level but did not have the time to do so as the change period. Therefore, it is possible to suppress any deterioration in the comfort level of the air-conditioned space and to increase the likelihood of meeting the air conditioner user's requests regarding the temperature setting.

[0198] (Technology 10) A control method for an air conditioning system that air-conditions a space using an air conditioning device, comprising: determining a change period during which the application method of an automatic setting function that automatically sets a set temperature capable of suppressing the energy consumption of the air conditioning device is changed; and changing the application method of the automatic setting function during the determined change period. According to this, it will produce the same effect as the air conditioning system of Technology 1.

[0199] (Technology 11) A computer for an air conditioning system that air-conditions a space using an air conditioning device is configured to function as an application unit that applies an automatic setting function to the air conditioning device to automatically set a set temperature that can suppress the energy consumption of the air conditioning device, and a determination unit that determines a change period for changing the application method of the automatic setting function, wherein the application unit is programmed to change the application method of the automatic setting function during the change period determined by the determination unit. According to this, it will produce the same effect as the air conditioning system of Technology 1. [Industrial applicability]

[0200] As described above, the air conditioning system, control method for the air conditioning system, and program according to the present invention can be used for the purpose of automatically setting a set temperature in an air conditioning device. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0201] 1. Air conditioning system 2 Terminal devices 3. Management Server 4 Weather Server 11 Indoor unit 12 Outdoor unit 13 Remote control 14. Communication equipment 20 Terminal control device 21 Terminal Communication Section 22 Display section 23 Input section 30 Server control unit (computer) 31 Server Communication Section 200 terminal processors 201 Display Control Unit Room 202, Reception Department 203 Terminal Communication Control Unit 210 Terminal memory 211 Control Program 300 server processors 301 Server Communication Control Unit 302 Decision Section 303 Acquisition Department 304 Update Department 305 Application section 310 Server Memory 311 Control program (program) 312 Management DB 1000 Air Conditioning Systems AD collected data H Facility HD Change Request Period Data MD Management Data MD1 First Management Data MD2 Second Management Data NW Network P Administrator (User) RD operation data S Air conditioned space SD card configuration data

Claims

1. An air conditioning system that provides air conditioning to a space using an air conditioning device, An application unit that applies an automatic setting function to the air conditioner, which automatically sets a set temperature that can suppress the energy consumption of the air conditioner, The system includes a determination unit that determines the change period for changing the method of applying the automatic setting function, The application unit changes the method of applying the automatic setting function during the change period determined by the determination unit. Air conditioning system.

2. Changing the method of applying the automatic setting function means disabling the application of the automatic setting function. The air conditioning system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned air conditioning system is provided, The aforementioned air conditioning system provides air conditioning at the set temperature set by the remote control during the aforementioned change period. The air conditioning system according to claim 2.

4. Changing the method of applying the automatic setting function means changing the range of settable temperatures that can be automatically set in the air conditioner from the first range to the second range. The air conditioning system according to claim 1.

5. Changing the method of applying the automatic setting function means setting the temperature automatically set to the air conditioning system to a temperature that increases the comfort of the air-conditioned space compared to the temperature automatically set during periods other than the change period. The air conditioning system according to claim 1.

6. The temperature at which comfort in the air-conditioned space is increased is a temperature that is on the side of the smallest unit of adjustable temperature range in the air conditioning system, compared to the set temperature that is automatically set during periods other than the change period. The air conditioning system according to claim 5.

7. The determination unit determines the change period to a period specified by the user of the air conditioning system. The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The decision unit determines the change period based on weather conditions. The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

9. The determination unit determines the change period based on the history of temperature change operations. The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

10. A control method for an air conditioning system that air-conditions a space using an air conditioning device, Determine the change period during which the application method for the automatic setting function that automatically sets a set temperature capable of suppressing the energy consumption of the air conditioner is changed, During the determined change period, the method of applying the automatic setting function will be changed. A method for controlling an air conditioning system.

11. The computer for an air conditioning system that uses an air conditioning device to air-condition a space is An application unit that applies an automatic setting function to the air conditioner, which automatically sets a set temperature that can suppress the energy consumption of the air conditioner, This unit functions as a determination unit that determines the change period for changing the application method of the aforementioned automatic setting function. The application unit changes the method of applying the automatic setting function during the change period determined by the determination unit. program.

Images