Information processing device, ventilation system, and air conditioning method

Abstract

To prevent the deterioration of air quality within the target space. [Solution] The information processing device includes a control unit (34) that controls a ventilation device (10) that ventilates a target space (A) and an air conditioning device (20) that includes an air purification unit (22) that purifies the air in the target space (A). The control unit (34) maintains the ventilation airflow, which is the amount of outside air (63) sent to the target space (A) by the ventilation device (10), at or above a predetermined required ventilation amount, and adjusts the equivalent ventilation airflow to maintain the total airflow, which is the sum of the ventilation airflow and the equivalent ventilation airflow including the airflow of the air conditioning device (20), at or above a predetermined target value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, a ventilation system, and an air conditioning method.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an air conditioning system. The air conditioning system described in Patent Document 1 conveys the air in an air conditioning chamber to a plurality of living rooms independent of the air conditioning chamber by a plurality of conveying fans, acquires a plurality of living room target temperatures set for each of the plurality of living rooms, and when the air conditioner is in a cooling operation, controls the temperature of the air conditioning chamber to a temperature below the lowest temperature among the plurality of living room target temperatures, and when the air conditioner is in a heating operation, controls the temperature of the air conditioning chamber to a temperature above the highest temperature among the plurality of target temperatures, and controls the air volume of the conveying fan based on the living room target temperature and the temperature of the air conditioning chamber.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] For example, when the number of people in a target space increases or the CO2 concentration in the target space rises, if the ventilation air volume in the target space is insufficient, it becomes difficult to ensure the cleanliness of the air in the target space.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an information processing apparatus, a ventilation system, and an air conditioning method that can suppress deterioration of the cleanliness of the air in a target space.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The information processing device in the first embodiment includes a control unit (34) that controls a ventilation device (10) for ventilating a target space (A) and an air conditioning device (20) including an air purification unit (22) for purifying the air in the target space (A). The control unit (34) maintains the ventilation airflow, which is the amount of outside air (63) sent to the target space (A) by the ventilation device (10), at or above a predetermined required ventilation rate, and adjusts the equivalent ventilation airflow to maintain the total airflow, which is the sum of the ventilation airflow and the equivalent ventilation airflow including the airflow of the air conditioning device (20), at or above a predetermined target value.

[0007] In the first embodiment, even if the ventilation airflow is insufficient, the deterioration of the air purity in the target space can be suppressed by adjusting the equivalent ventilation airflow to cover the deficiency.

[0008] In a second embodiment, in the first embodiment, the control unit (34) further adjusts the ventilation airflow in order to maintain the total airflow at or above the predetermined target value.

[0009] In the second embodiment, the equivalent ventilation airflow and the ventilation airflow can be adjusted to ensure that the total airflow is equal to or greater than a predetermined target value.

[0010] In the third embodiment, in the first or second embodiment, the predetermined target value is set to a value corresponding to the number of people in the target space (A), or is set based on the volume of the target space (A).

[0011] In a third embodiment, the control unit (34) can set a predetermined target value based on the number of people in the target space (A) or the volume of the target space (A).

[0012] In the fourth embodiment, the control unit (34) adjusts the equivalent ventilation airflow according to the number of people in the target space (A) while maintaining the ventilation airflow at a constant level.

[0013] In the fourth embodiment, outside air (63) can be stably supplied to the target space (A).

[0014] The fifth embodiment of the ventilation system comprises the information processing device, the ventilation device (10), and the air conditioning device (20) according to any one embodiment of the first to fourth embodiments.

[0015] In the sixth embodiment, the ventilation system comprises an output unit that outputs the ventilation airflow of the ventilation device (10), and the control unit (34) determines that there is an abnormality in the ventilation device (10) if the output result of the output unit is less than the required ventilation amount.

[0016] In the sixth embodiment, the control unit (34) can determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the ventilation device (10).

[0017] In the seventh aspect, in the sixth aspect, the control unit (34) adjusts the equivalent ventilation airflow so that the total airflow is equal to or greater than the required ventilation airflow when there is an abnormality in the ventilation device (10).

[0018] In the seventh embodiment, even if a malfunction occurs in the ventilation device (10), the total airflow can be made to be greater than or equal to the required ventilation volume.

[0019] The eighth aspect is that, in the sixth or seventh aspect, the ventilation system includes a notification unit that notifies information regarding abnormalities in the ventilation device (10).

[0020] In the eighth aspect, the user can recognize an abnormality in the ventilation device (10).

[0021] The ninth aspect is a configuration of any one of the fifth to eighth aspects, wherein the ventilation system includes an air purifier (70) for purifying the air in the target space (A), the air conditioning device (20) includes a temperature control unit (21) for temperature-regulating the air in the target space (A), the equivalent ventilation airflow represents the sum of the airflow of the air conditioning device (20) and the airflow of the air purifier (70), and the control unit (34) adjusts the ratio of the airflow of the air conditioning device (20) to the airflow of the air purifier (70) in the equivalent ventilation airflow based on the external environment or the operating status of the temperature control unit (21).

[0022] In the ninth aspect, by adjusting the ratios of the air volume of the return air (61) and the air volume of the air purifier (70) in the equivalent ventilation air volume, the air conditioner (20) and the air purifier (70) can be operated efficiently, so that the energy-saving effect of the ventilation system (1) can be enhanced.

[0023] The tenth aspect is any one of the fifth to ninth aspects, wherein the ventilation system includes a first output unit that outputs the dust collection rate of the air purification unit (22), and a second output unit that outputs the air volume of the return air (61) sent from the target space (A) to the air conditioner (20), and the control unit (34) outputs the equivalent ventilation air volume based on the output results of the first output unit and the second output unit.

[0024] In the tenth aspect, the equivalent ventilation air volume can be output in consideration of the reduction in the air volume of the air conditioner (20) due to clogging of the air purification unit (22).

[0025] The air conditioning method according to the eleventh aspect includes a control step of controlling a ventilation device (10) that ventilates a target space (A) and an air purification unit (22) that purifies the air in the target space (A). In the control step, while maintaining the ventilation air volume, which is the air volume of the outside air (63) sent to the target space (A) by the ventilation device (10), at or above a predetermined required ventilation volume, the equivalent ventilation air volume including the ventilation air volume and the air volume of the air conditioner (20) is adjusted in order to maintain the total air volume, which is the sum of the two, at or above a predetermined target value.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a ventilation system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a ventilation system according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a first example of ventilation processing. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a second example of ventilation processing. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a conceptual diagram of airflow control. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a modified ventilation system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible without departing from the technical idea of ​​this disclosure. Since the drawings are for conceptual explanation of this disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary for ease of understanding. In each embodiment, example, modification, and drawing, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions and their associated effects will not be repeated.

[0028] —Ventilation System— The ventilation system (1) is installed in facilities such as residences, commercial facilities, and public facilities, and is a system that provides air conditioning to a target space (A) within the facility. The ventilation system (1) provides air conditioning to the target space (A) of the facility, for example, as a measure to prevent infectious diseases. The target space (A) is, for example, a room, living room, dining room, kitchen, office, shop, or an enclosed space in a hospital. In the following, airflow refers to the airflow per unit time (e.g., 1 hour).

[0029] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the ventilation system (1) comprises a ventilation device (10), an air conditioning device (20), an information processing device (30), a first detection unit (41), a second detection unit (42), a third detection unit (43), a fourth detection unit (44), a first passage (51), a second passage (52), a third passage (53), and a fourth passage (54).

[0030] The first passage (51), the second passage (52), the third passage (53), and the fourth passage (54) are ducts. The first passage (51), the second passage (52), the third passage (53), and the fourth passage (54) are located within the facility. The first passage (51) communicates with the target space (A) and the air conditioning unit (20). The second passage (52) communicates with the target space (A) and the ventilation unit (10). The third passage (53) communicates with the target space (A) and the ventilation unit (10). The fourth passage (54) communicates with the ventilation unit (10) and the first passage (51). The first passage (51) and the second passage (52) form a circulation path that circulates air between the target space (A) and the air conditioning unit (20).

[0031] The return air (61), which is the air sent from the target space (A) to the first passage (51), is mixed with the outside air (63) sent through the fourth passage (54) by the ventilation device (10). The outside air (63) is the air from outside (outside the target space (A) and the circulation path). The supply air (64), which is the mixture of the return air (61) and the outside air (63), is sent to the air conditioning device (20) through the first passage (51), and after passing through the air conditioning device (20), it is sent to the target space (A) through the second passage (52). The exhaust air (62), which is the air sent from the target space (A) to the third passage (53), is sent to the second passage (52) by the ventilation device (10), and then discharged outside (outside the facility).

[0032] The airflow rate of the return air (61) is the airflow rate sent from the target space (A) to the air conditioning unit (20). The airflow rate of the air conditioning unit (20) is the airflow rate sent from the air conditioning unit (20) to the target space (A). In this embodiment, the airflow rate of the return air (61) is the same as the airflow rate of the air conditioning unit (20). Also in this embodiment, the airflow rate of the air conditioning unit (20) is the same as the equivalent ventilation airflow rate. The airflow rate of the outside air (63) may be described as the ventilation airflow rate. The airflow rate of the outside air (63) is the ventilation airflow rate of the ventilation unit (10). Also, the airflow rate of the supply air (64) may be described as the total airflow rate. The total airflow rate is the sum of the equivalent ventilation airflow rate and the ventilation airflow rate.

[0033] The ventilation system (10) includes an outside air intake fan and an outside air intake motor that rotates the outside air intake fan. An outside air inlet (not shown) is installed on the exterior wall of the facility. The outside air inlet is connected to the ventilation system (10). The ventilation system (10) takes in outside air (63) from the outside air inlet by rotating the outside air intake fan with the outside air intake motor and sends the outside air (63) to the first passage (51) through the fourth passage (54).

[0034] The ventilation system (10) includes an exhaust fan and an exhaust motor that rotates the exhaust fan. An exhaust vent (not shown) is installed on the exterior wall of the facility. The exhaust vent is connected to the ventilation system (10). The ventilation system (10) rotates the exhaust fan with the exhaust motor to send the air in the target space (A) to the third passage (53), and discharges the exhaust (62) sent to the third passage (53) to the outside through the exhaust vent.

[0035] The ventilation airflow rate (airflow rate of outside air (63)) of the ventilation device (10) is adjusted by controlling the rotational speed (revolutions per unit time) of the ventilation fans (outside air intake motor and exhaust motor) by manipulating the current values ​​of the ventilation motors (outside air intake motor and exhaust motor). The ventilation airflow rate (airflow rate of outside air (63)) is equivalent to the exhaust airflow rate (62). Heat exchange between the outside air (63) and the exhaust air (62) may occur in the ventilation device (10).

[0036] The casing of the air conditioning unit (20) has an intake port and an outlet port. The supply air (64) flowing through the first passage (51) is sent into the casing of the air conditioning unit (20) through the intake port, and then passes through the air conditioning unit (20) so as to be sent to the second passage (52) outside the casing through the outlet port.

[0037] The air conditioning unit (20) includes an air purification function. The air conditioning unit (20) includes a temperature control unit (21), an air purification unit (22), and a blower unit (23). The temperature control unit (21) controls the temperature of the air in the target space (A). The temperature control unit (21) includes, for example, a first heat exchanger located inside the casing of the air conditioning unit (20), a second heat exchanger located outside, a compressor, and an expansion valve. The first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are connected in a ring shape via piping or the like to form a refrigerant circuit. The temperature control unit (21) performs cooling operation by releasing heat from the refrigerant compressed by the compressor in the second heat exchanger, then reducing the pressure with the expansion valve, and evaporating the reduced pressure refrigerant in the first heat exchanger. When cooling operation is performed, the first heat exchanger functions as a refrigerant evaporator. When cooling operation is performed, the supply air (64) sent into the casing of the air conditioner (20) through the first passage (51) is cooled by the first heat exchanger, and the cooled supply air (64) is sent to the target space (A) through the second passage (52). As a result, the air in the target space (A) is cooled. The temperature control unit (21) may also be able to switch between cooling operation and heating operation. In this case, the temperature control unit (21) includes a four-way switching valve, and performs heating operation by using the four-way switching valve to flow the refrigerant in the opposite direction to that of cooling operation in the refrigerant circuit. The temperature control unit (21) performs heating operation by releasing heat from the refrigerant compressed by the compressor in the first heat exchanger, then reducing the pressure with an expansion valve, and evaporating the reduced pressure refrigerant in the second heat exchanger. When heating operation is performed, the first heat exchanger functions as a refrigerant condenser. When heating is performed, the supply air (64) sent into the casing of the air conditioner (20) through the first passage (51) is heated by the first heat exchanger, and the heated supply air (64) is sent to the target space (A) through the second passage (52). As a result, the air in the target space (A) is heated.

[0038] The air purification unit (22) purifies the air in the target space (A). The air purification unit (22) includes, for example, a first capture unit that captures dust in the air. The first capture unit is, for example, a HEPA filter (High Efficiency Particulate Air). The air purification unit (22) is positioned, for example, at the intake or outlet of the casing of the air conditioner (20). The supply air (64) sent into the casing of the air conditioner (20) through the first passage (51) passes through the air purification unit (22). At this time, the supply air (64) is purified by the capture of dust in the supply air (64) by the air purification unit (22). The purified supply air (64) is sent to the target space (A) through the second passage (52). As a result, the air in the target space (A) is purified. The air conditioning unit (20) includes an air purification unit (22) that purifies the air in the target space (A), and when circulating air between the air conditioning unit (20) and the target space (A), it sends the air purified by the air purification unit (22) to the target space (A). The airflow rate of the air conditioning unit (20) indicates the airflow rate of the air conditioning unit (20) circulating air between the air conditioning unit (20) and the target space (A).

[0039] The blower unit (23) includes a blower fan that sends air (return air (61)) through a circulation path and a blower motor that rotates the blower fan. The blower unit (23) (blower fan and blower motor) is located inside the casing of the air conditioning unit (20). The blower motor rotates the blower fan, causing the return air (61) to circulate between the air conditioning unit (20) and the target space (A) through the circulation path (first passage (51) and second passage (52)). The airflow rate of the return air (61) (airflow rate of the air conditioning unit (20)) is adjusted by controlling the rotation speed of the blower fan by manipulating the current value of the blower motor.

[0040] The information processing device (30) is, for example, a PC (Personal Computer). The information processing device (30) includes a display unit (31), an input unit (32), a storage unit (33), a control unit (34), and an acquisition unit (35). The display unit (31) displays information. The display unit (31) includes, for example, a display (liquid crystal display, organic EL display, etc.). The input unit (32) receives instructions from the outside. The input unit (32) includes, for example, a keyboard, a touch panel, a mouse, operation buttons, etc. The storage unit (33) includes, for example, a main memory (e.g., semiconductor memory) such as flash memory, ROM (Read Only Memory), and RAM (Random Access Memory), and may further include an auxiliary memory (e.g., a hard disk drive, SSD (Solid State Drive), SD (Secure Digital) memory card, or USB (Universal Serial Bus) flash memory). The memory unit (33) stores various computer programs executed by the control unit (34). The control unit (34) includes a processor such as a CPU and an MPU or an ASIC. The control unit (34) controls each component of the ventilation system (1) by executing the computer programs stored in the memory unit (33).

[0041] The first detection unit (41) detects the wind speed of the outside air (63). The first detection unit (41) includes, for example, a wind speed sensor. The first detection unit (41) is located in the third passage (53). Information indicating the detection result of the first detection unit (41) is acquired by the acquisition unit (35). The control unit (34) outputs the ventilation airflow rate of the ventilation device (10) based on the detection result of the first detection unit (41). For example, the control unit (34) outputs the ventilation airflow rate of the ventilation device (10) as a value obtained by multiplying the detection result of the first detection unit (41) by the cross-sectional area of ​​the fourth passage (54). The first detection unit (41) and the control unit (34) are examples of output units.

[0042] The second detection unit (42) detects the degree of clogging of the air purification unit (22). The second detection unit (42) includes a first particulate sensor and a second particulate sensor. Each of the first and second particulate sensors includes, for example, a particle counter. The first particulate sensor senses the supply air (64) upstream of the air purification unit (22) (first capture unit such as a HEPA filter), and the second particulate sensor senses the supply air (64) downstream of the air purification unit (22). The first particulate sensor detects fine particles such as dust present in the supply air (64) upstream of the air purification unit (22) (in other words, the supply air (64) before it passes through the air purification unit (22)). The second particulate sensor detects fine particles such as dust present in the supply air (64) downstream of the air purification unit (22) (in other words, the supply air (64) after it passes through the air purification unit (22)). Information indicating the detection result of the second detection unit (42) is acquired by the acquisition unit (35). The control unit (34) outputs the dust collection rate of the air purification unit (22) based on the detection result of the second detection unit (42). The control unit (34) outputs the filter efficiency (dust collection rate of the air purification unit (22)) based, for example, on the ratio of the detection result of the first particulate sensor to the detection result of the second particulate sensor. The control unit (34) outputs the dust collection rate (%) of the air purification unit (22) by multiplying the value obtained by dividing the detection result of the second particulate sensor by the detection result of the first particulate sensor by 100. The second detection unit (42) and the control unit (34) function as a first output unit for outputting the dust collection rate (%) of the air purification unit (22).

[0043] The third detection unit (43) detects the wind speed of the return air (61). The third detection unit (43) includes, for example, a wind speed sensor. The third detection unit (43) is located in the first passage (51). Information indicating the detection result of the third detection unit (43) is acquired by the acquisition unit (35). The control unit (34) outputs the airflow rate of the return air (61) based on the detection result of the third detection unit (43). The control unit (34) outputs the airflow rate of the return air (61) by multiplying the detection result of the third detection unit (43) by the cross-sectional area of ​​the first passage (51). In this embodiment, the third detection unit (43) and the control unit (34) function as a second output unit for outputting the airflow rate of the return air (61). The control unit (34) outputs the airflow rate of the air conditioner (20) based on the detection result of the third detection unit (43). In this embodiment, the airflow rate of the return air (61) is the airflow rate of the air conditioning device (20). In this embodiment, the airflow rate of the air conditioning device (20) is the equivalent ventilation airflow rate. In this embodiment, the control unit (34) outputs the airflow rate of the return air (61) (air conditioning device (20)) as the equivalent ventilation airflow rate.

[0044] The fourth detection unit (44) detects information regarding the number of people in the target space (A). The fourth detection unit (44) includes, for example, a human presence sensor (infrared sensor). The fourth detection unit (44) is installed in the target space (A) (for example, on the wall surface of the target space (A)). Information indicating the detection result of the fourth detection unit (44) is acquired by the acquisition unit (35). The control unit (34) can determine whether or not there are people in the target space (A) based on the detection result of the fourth detection unit (44), and can also output the number of people in the target space (A) based on the detection result of the fourth detection unit (44).

[0045] The acquisition unit (35) acquires information indicating the detection results of the first detection unit (41) to the third detection unit (43). The acquisition unit (35) acquires information regarding the number of people in the target space (A) from the fourth detection unit (44). The acquisition unit (35) includes, if wirelessly connected to the first detection unit (41) to the fourth detection unit (44), a communication module such as a LAN board and an infrared receiver, and if wired, a communication port.

[0046] —First example of ventilation treatment— As shown in Figures 1 to 3, in step S11, if the detection result of the fourth detection unit (44) indicates that the number of people in the target space (A) is 0, the control unit (34) controls the ventilation device (10) so that the ventilation airflow is equal to or greater than a predetermined required ventilation volume (see graph X in Figure 5). In this embodiment, when the number of people in the target space (A) is 0, the control unit (34) controls the ventilation device (10) so that the ventilation airflow is equal to or greater than a predetermined required ventilation volume. Regarding the equivalent ventilation airflow when the number of people in the target space (A) is 0, in this embodiment, if the air conditioning device (20) is not operated by the user, the control unit (34) maintains the state in which the air conditioning device (20) is stopped, so that the equivalent ventilation airflow becomes 0. In contrast, if the number of occupants in the target space (A) is 0 and the air conditioning unit (20) is operated by the user, the control unit (34) operates the air conditioning unit (20) in an operating mode corresponding to the user's operation, so that the equivalent ventilation airflow becomes the size corresponding to the operation of the air conditioning unit (20). The required ventilation volume is the amount of air necessary to maintain the air in the target space (A) in a hygienic state. The required ventilation volume is the airflow required for a predetermined number of ventilations. The required ventilation volume is preset. Information indicating the required ventilation volume is stored in the memory unit (33) (see Figure 2). The required ventilation volume is set, for example, based on the required number of ventilations of the target space (A) and the volume of the target space (A), and is the product of the required number of ventilations of the target space (A) and the volume of the target space (A). The required number of ventilations is, for example, the number of ventilations that must be ensured by regulations such as the Building Standards Act.

[0047] In step S12, the acquisition unit (35) acquires information regarding the number of people in the target space (A).

[0048] In step S13, the control unit (34) outputs a target value for the total airflow (a predetermined target value). In this embodiment, the target value for the total airflow is set to a value corresponding to the number of people in the target space (A). The control unit (34) sets the target value for the total airflow so that it corresponds to the number of people in the target space (A) acquired by the acquisition unit (35). The target value for the total airflow changes each time the number of people in the target space (A) acquired by the acquisition unit (35) changes. That is, the target value for the total airflow changes in real time in accordance with the change in the number of people in the target space (A). The control unit (34) outputs the target value for the total airflow if the number of people in the target space (A) is one or more. The target value for the total airflow is the ventilation airflow required for the number of people in the space. The more people in the target space (A) there are, the larger the target value for the total airflow becomes. In this embodiment, the target value for the total airflow is set to the number of people in the target space (A) and 300 CHM (Cubic Meter Per Hour (m)). 3 The target value of the total airflow is expressed as the product of ( / h)) (Target value of total airflow = Number of occupants in the target space (A) × 300 CHM). In other words, in this embodiment, the target value of the total airflow increases in proportion to the number of occupants in the target space (A). In this embodiment, the target value of the total airflow is the product of the number of occupants in the target space (A) (the number of occupants in the target space (A) output by the control unit (34)) and a predetermined unit ventilation rate. The predetermined unit ventilation rate is the ventilation rate required per person. The predetermined unit ventilation rate is set by, for example, a public institution such as the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, an academic organization such as the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, or an industry association such as the Japan Medical and Welfare Equipment Association.

[0049] In step S14, the control unit (34) controls the ventilation device (10) so that the ventilation airflow in the target space (A) is maintained at or above a predetermined required ventilation rate, while controlling the air conditioning device (20) to adjust the equivalent ventilation airflow so that the total airflow (sum of ventilation airflow and equivalent ventilation airflow) is equal to or above the target value of the total airflow (see graph Y in Figure 5). As a result, the ventilation airflow is maintained at or above a predetermined required ventilation rate, and any airflow that is insufficient to meet the target value of the total airflow by the ventilation device (10) alone is compensated for by the equivalent ventilation airflow of the air conditioning device (20), so that an airflow equal to or above the target value of the total airflow is delivered to the target space (A). The equivalent ventilation airflow is the airflow of the air conditioning device (20) replaced with the ventilation airflow. In other words, the equivalent ventilation airflow is the airflow of the air conditioning device (20) considered as the ventilation airflow. In this embodiment, ventilating the air in the target space (A) is replaced by sending air purified by the air purification unit (22) of the air conditioning device (20) to the target space (A). That is, the shortage of outside air (63) caused by the increase in the number of people in the target space (A) is compensated for by the return air (61) purified by the air purification unit (22). The ventilation airflow of the ventilation device (10) may be constant or fluctuate, as long as it is above a predetermined required ventilation rate.

[0050] In this embodiment, regardless of whether the number of people in the target space (A) is zero or one or more, the control unit (34) controls the ventilation device (10) so that the ventilation airflow is constant and equal to or greater than a predetermined required ventilation volume. As a result, regardless of the number of people in the target space (A), a constant amount of outside air (63) equal to or greater than the required ventilation volume is stably supplied to the target space (A).

[0051] -effect- As described above, the control unit (34) maintains the ventilation airflow, which is the amount of outside air (63) sent to the target space (A) by the ventilation device (10), at or above a predetermined required ventilation rate, while adjusting the equivalent ventilation airflow to maintain the total airflow, which is the sum of the ventilation airflow from the ventilation device (10) and the amount of return air (61) circulated between the air conditioning device (20) and the target space (A), at or above a target value for the total airflow set according to the number of people in the target space (A) acquired by the acquisition unit (35). This makes it possible to prevent deterioration of the air quality in the target space (A) by adjusting the equivalent ventilation airflow to cover the shortfall even if the ventilation airflow is insufficient. Furthermore, by stably supplying more outside air (63) than the required ventilation volume to the target space (A), and by increasing the amount of purified return air (61) supplied to the target space (A) in accordance with the increase in the number of people in the target space (A), it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the air purity in the target space even if the number of people in the target space changes.

[0052] Furthermore, by maintaining the ventilation airflow of the ventilation device (10) above a predetermined required ventilation volume, the amount of outside air (63) sent to the target space (A) can be secured even if the number of people in the target space changes. In addition, since products such as retrofittable air conditioner filters and air purifiers can be used as air purification units (22), the ventilation system (1) can be easily configured.

[0053] —Second example of ventilation treatment— In the second example of ventilation treatment, we will mainly explain the differences from the first example of ventilation treatment (see Figure 3).

[0054] As shown in Figures 1, 2, and 4, once the process shown in step S11 is completed, the process moves on to step S11a.

[0055] In step S11a, the control unit (34) acquires the detection result from the first detection unit (41) and outputs the ventilation airflow rate. In other words, the output unit outputs the ventilation airflow rate of the ventilation device (10). The control unit (34) monitors the ventilation device (10) based on the ventilation airflow rate output using the first detection unit (41), which is an outside air (63) wind speed sensor.

[0056] In step S11b, the control unit (34) determines whether the ventilation airflow is equal to or greater than the required ventilation volume. If the ventilation airflow is equal to or greater than the required ventilation volume (Yes in step S11b), the process proceeds to step S11d. If the ventilation airflow is less than the required ventilation volume (No in step S11b), the process proceeds to step S11c. In other words, if the output result of the output unit (ventilation airflow of the ventilation device (10)) is equal to or greater than the required ventilation volume (Yes in step S11b), the control unit (34) determines that there is no abnormality in the ventilation device (10), and the process proceeds to step S11d. If the output result of the output unit is less than the required ventilation volume (No in step S11b), the control unit (34) determines that there is an abnormality in the ventilation device (10), and the process proceeds to step S11c.

[0057] In step S11c, the control unit (34) notifies the user of abnormality information regarding the ventilation device (10). This abnormality information not only indicates that there is an abnormality in the ventilation device (10), but also provides information to make the user aware of problems arising from the abnormality in the ventilation device (10), such as the need for maintenance of the ventilation device (10). The control unit (34) notifies the user of the abnormality information (information indicating that there is an abnormality in the ventilation device (10), maintenance information indicating that maintenance of the ventilation device (10) is necessary, etc.) on the display unit (31), for example. This allows the user to check the display unit (31) and recognize the abnormality information. Next, the process proceeds to step S11d. The display unit (31) is an example of a notification unit. The notification unit may also include a speaker that emits sound, and may notify the user of the abnormality information by emitting sound.

[0058] In step S11d, the control unit (34) acquires the detection result from the third detection unit (43) and outputs the equivalent ventilation airflow rate. The control unit (34) monitors the ventilation device (10) based on the equivalent ventilation airflow rate output using the third detection unit (43), which is a wind speed sensor for the return air (61).

[0059] In step S11e, the control unit (34) acquires the detection result from the second detection unit (42) and outputs the filter efficiency (dust collection rate of the air purification unit (22)). The control unit (34) monitors the ventilation device (10) based on the degree of clogging of the air purification unit (22) (HEPA filter) which can be confirmed from the detection result from the second detection unit (42). When step S11e is completed, the process moves to step S12, and steps S12 to S14 are performed. When step S14 is completed, the process moves to step S15.

[0060] In step S15, the control unit (34) determines whether the total airflow, which is the sum of the ventilation airflow output based on the first detection unit (41) and the equivalent ventilation airflow output based on the detection result of the third detection unit (43), is equal to or greater than the target value of the total airflow. If the total airflow is equal to or greater than the target value of the total airflow (Yes in step S15), the process ends. If the total airflow is less than the target value of the total airflow (No in step S15), the process proceeds to step S16.

[0061] In step S16, the control unit (34) notifies the user of maintenance information indicating that the air conditioning unit (20) requires maintenance. Possible reasons for the total airflow falling below the target value include, for example, a malfunction in the air conditioning unit (20) preventing it from outputting the desired equivalent ventilation airflow, or a blockage in the air purification unit (22) (HEPA filter) preventing the air conditioning unit (20) from outputting the desired equivalent ventilation airflow. Therefore, the control unit (34) outputs maintenance information for the air conditioning unit (20). The control unit (34) notifies the user of the maintenance information, for example, by displaying the maintenance information on the display unit (31). This allows the user to recognize that the air conditioning unit (20) requires maintenance.

[0062] In step S17, the control unit (34) performs air conditioning control to increase the ventilation airflow of the ventilation device (10) or the equivalent ventilation airflow of the air conditioner (20) so that the total airflow is equal to or greater than the target value of the total airflow. For example, if the total airflow is less than the target value of the total airflow because the ventilation device (10) is unable to output a ventilation airflow equal to or greater than the required ventilation amount due to a malfunction in the ventilation device (10), the control unit (34) increases the equivalent ventilation airflow of the air conditioner (20) to control the air conditioner (20) so that the total airflow is equal to or greater than the target value of the total airflow (see graph Z in Figure 5). In other words, if the control unit (34) determines that there is a malfunction in the ventilation device (10), it adjusts the equivalent ventilation airflow of the air conditioner (20) so that the total airflow is equal to or greater than the required ventilation amount. This makes it possible to suppress the deterioration of the air purity in the target space even if a malfunction occurs in the ventilation device (10). Furthermore, if the number of people in the target space (A) becomes 0, and a malfunction occurs in the ventilation device (10), preventing the ventilation device (10) from outputting a ventilation airflow greater than or equal to the required ventilation volume, the control unit (34) controls the air conditioning device (20) to adjust the equivalent ventilation airflow so that the total airflow is greater than or equal to the required ventilation volume. When step S17 is completed, the process moves to step S11d.

[0063] —Revised Version— As shown in Figure 6, the ventilation system (1) may include an air purifier (70). The air purifier (70) is a separate device from the air conditioning unit (20). The air purifier (70) is placed, for example, within the target space (A). The air purifier (70) includes a second capture unit that captures dust, such as a HEPA filter, a fan, and a motor that rotates the fan. The air purifier (70) circulates air between the air purifier (70) and the target space (A) by rotating the fan with the motor. The air circulating between the air purifier (70) and the target space (A) is purified by the second capture unit (HEPA filter) as it passes through the air purifier (70). As a result, purified air is sent from the air purifier (70) to the target space (A). In this case, the equivalent ventilation airflow is the sum of the airflow of the return air (61) and the airflow of the air purifier (70) (the airflow sent to the target space (A) by the air purifier (70)). The control unit (34) outputs the sum of the airflow of the return air (61) and the airflow of the air purifier (70) as the equivalent ventilation airflow. The air purifier (70) is equipped with an airflow sensor that detects the airflow of the air purifier (70). The control unit (34) outputs the sum of the detection result of the airflow sensor and the airflow of the return air (61) output by the second output unit as the equivalent ventilation airflow. In this case, the control unit (34) may adjust the ratio of the airflow of the air conditioner (20) and the airflow of the air purifier (70) in the equivalent ventilation airflow based on the external environment or the operating status of the temperature control unit (21). For example, in external environments where the frequency of the air conditioning system (20) operating in cooling or heating mode is high, such as during summer or winter, the proportion of the airflow from the air conditioning system (20) (the airflow from the return air (61)) to the total equivalent ventilation airflow is increased. Also, in external environments where the frequency of the air conditioning system (20) operating in cooling or heating mode is low, such as during the transitional season (spring or autumn), the proportion of the airflow from the air purifier (70) to the total equivalent ventilation airflow is increased. For example, based on the detection result of a temperature sensor that detects the temperature in the target space (A), the control unit (34) determines whether or not it is a time when the frequency of the air conditioning system (20) operating in cooling or heating mode is high.Furthermore, the control unit (34) checks the operating status of the temperature control unit (21) (whether cooling or heating operation is being performed), and if cooling or heating operation is being performed, it may increase the ratio of the airflow of the air conditioner (20) to the equivalent ventilation airflow. Also, if the air conditioner (20) is stopped, the equivalent ventilation airflow may be comprised solely of the airflow of the air purifier (70). By adjusting the ratio of the airflow of the air conditioner (20) and the air purifier (70) to account for the equivalent ventilation airflow, the air conditioner (20) and the air purifier (70) can be operated efficiently, thereby increasing the energy-saving effect of the ventilation system (1).

[0064] The air purification unit (22) may include a sterilization unit that inactivates harmful microorganisms floating in the air within the target space (A). The sterilization unit is, for example, an LED placed inside the casing of the air conditioner (20) that irradiates ultraviolet light onto the air (supply air (64)) passing through the casing. This inactivates viruses and bacteria in the supply air (64), and the air in the target space (A) is purified when the supply air (64) is sent to the target space (A).

[0065] The air purification unit (22) may include an ion generator that releases ions into the air. The ion generator releases ions to the air (supply air (64)) passing through the casing of the air conditioner (20), and the ions combine with components in the air to generate highly oxidative active species. The supply air (64) from which the ions have been released is then sent to the target space (A), thereby purifying the air in the target space (A).

[0066] The fourth passage (54) does not have to be in communication with the first passage (51), and may be in direct communication with the target space (A). In this case, the outside air (63) is sent to the target space (A) without mixing with the return air (61).

[0067] The configuration of the air conditioning system (20) is not particularly limited. For example, the air conditioning system (20) may have an indoor unit located within the target space (A) and an outdoor unit located outside. In this case, the indoor unit may have a temperature control unit (21), an air purification unit (22), a blower unit (23), a first heat exchanger, etc., and the outdoor unit may have a second heat exchanger, etc. In this case, a second passage (52) is not provided, and supply air (64) is sent directly from the indoor unit into the target space (A). The indoor unit may be wall-mounted or ceiling-embedded.

[0068] The information processing device (30) may be provided in the air conditioning system (20). In this case, for example, the control unit (34), storage unit (33), and acquisition unit (35) are provided on a control board located inside the casing of the indoor unit of the air conditioning system (20), and the display unit (31) and input unit (32) are provided on the remote controller of the air conditioning system (20). The third detection unit (43) may also be provided in the air conditioning system (20). In this case, for example, the third detection unit (43) is provided in the casing of the indoor unit of the air conditioning system (20) and is located at an exhaust port or intake port communicating with the target space (A). The fourth detection unit (44) may also be provided in the air conditioning system (20). In this case, for example, the fourth detection unit (44) is located in the casing of the indoor unit of the air conditioning system (20). The information processing device (30) may also be provided in the ventilation system (10). In this case, for example, the control unit (34), storage unit (33), and acquisition unit (35) are provided on a control board located inside the casing of the ventilation device (10), and the display unit (31) and input unit (32) are provided on the remote controller of the ventilation device (10).

[0069] The configuration of the ventilation device (10) is not particularly limited. For example, the ventilation device (10) may have a structure in which an outside air intake fan is installed on the ceiling of the target space (A), and the outside air intake fan is connected to the outside by a duct.

[0070] In this embodiment, the fourth detection unit (44), which is a human presence sensor, acquires information regarding the number of people in the target space (A). However, the present invention is not limited to this. The input unit (32) may also accept input regarding the number of people in the target space (A). For example, a user of the target space (A) inputs information regarding the number of people in the target space (A) to the input unit (32). The information regarding the number of people in the target space (A) input from the input unit (32) is acquired by the acquisition unit (35). The information regarding the number of people in the target space (A) input from the input unit (32) is a second example of information regarding the number of people in the target space (A).

[0071] Alternatively, a CO2 sensor may be placed within the target space (A), and the control unit (34) may output the number of people in the target space (A) based on the detection result of the CO2 sensor and the correlation information between the number of people in the space and the CO2 concentration. This correlation information is stored in the storage unit (33) (see Figure 2). Information indicating the detection result of the CO2 sensor is acquired by the acquisition unit (35). Information indicating the detection result of a CO2 sensor that detects the CO2 concentration in the target space (A) is a third example of information regarding the number of people in the target space (A).

[0072] In this embodiment, the airflow rate of the air conditioner (20) is the airflow rate of the return air (61). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The airflow rate of the air conditioner (20) may be a value obtained by correcting the airflow rate of the return air (61) (output result of the second output unit) based on the dust collection efficiency of the air purification unit (22) (output result of the first output unit). If the dust collection efficiency of the air purification unit (22) decreases due to clogging of the air purification unit (22) (HEPA filter), the airflow rate will decrease due to pressure loss, and the actual airflow rate of the air conditioner (20) may become lower than the airflow rate of the return air (61) output based on the detection result of the third detection unit (43). Therefore, the control unit (34) may output the airflow rate of the air conditioner (20) (equivalent ventilation airflow rate) based on the dust collection efficiency of the air purification unit (22) (output result of the first output unit) and the airflow rate of the return air (61) (output result of the second output unit). Specifically, the control unit (34) may output a value obtained by correcting the airflow rate of the return air (61) (output result of the second output unit) based on the dust collection efficiency of the air purification unit (22) (output result of the first output unit) as the airflow rate of the air conditioner (20) (equivalent ventilation airflow rate). There is a correlation between the degree of decrease in the dust collection efficiency of the air purification unit (22) and the degree of decrease in the airflow rate of the air conditioner (20), and the lower the dust collection efficiency of the air purification unit (22) becomes, the smaller the correction value of the airflow rate of the air conditioner (20) relative to the airflow rate of the return air (61). In this case, the airflow rate of the air conditioner (20) is, for example, the value obtained by multiplying the airflow rate of the return air (61) (output result of the second output unit) by the dust collection efficiency of the air purification unit (22) (output result of the first output unit). The control unit (34) outputs a value obtained by multiplying the output result of the second output unit by the output result of the first output unit as the airflow rate (equivalent ventilation airflow rate) of the air conditioner (20). As a result, the equivalent ventilation airflow rate can be output while taking into account the decrease in airflow rate of the air conditioner (20) due to clogging of the air purification unit (22).

[0073] The air conditioning unit (20) does not need to have a temperature control unit (21), and only needs to have at least an air purification unit (22) and a blower unit (23). In other words, the air conditioning unit (20) may be an air conditioner equipped with an air purification unit (22), or it may be an air purifier.

[0074] In the second passage (52), a damper (80) may be provided at the outlet to the target space (A). In this case, if the opening of the damper (80) is fixed, the airflow rate of the air conditioning device (20) (rotation speed of the blower fan) may be adjusted to achieve the desired equivalent ventilation airflow rate, or if the airflow rate of the air conditioning device (20) is fixed, the opening of the damper (80) may be adjusted to achieve the desired equivalent ventilation airflow rate.

[0075] The control unit (34) controls the ventilation device (10) so that the ventilation airflow is equal to or greater than a predetermined required ventilation volume. Furthermore, the ventilation airflow may be adjusted (by adjusting the airflow of outside air (63)) according to the CO2 concentration in the target space (A). In this case, the control unit (34) controls the ventilation device (10) based on the detection result of the CO2 sensor to adjust the ventilation airflow so that when the CO2 concentration in the target space (A) rises above a first predetermined value, the ventilation airflow increases, and when the CO2 concentration in the target space (A) falls below a second predetermined value which is less than or equal to the first predetermined value, the ventilation airflow decreases (decreases within a range that is equal to or greater than a predetermined required ventilation volume). This prevents the CO2 concentration in the target space (A) from becoming excessive. In addition, by reducing the ventilation airflow when the CO2 concentration in the target space (A) decreases, the operating noise of the ventilation device (10) can be suppressed and the power consumption of the ventilation device (10) can be reduced.

[0076] In the ventilation system (1), the air conditioning unit (20) and the ventilation unit (10) may be configured as a single unit rather than being separate devices, thereby making the ventilation system (1) an air handling unit. The ventilation system (1), which is an air handling unit, is equipped with an air purification function (air conditioning unit (20)) and a ventilation function (ventilation unit (10)), and mixes outside air and return air, and passes the mixed outside air and return air through an air purification unit (22) (for example, a HEPA filter) to supply clean air to the target space (A). In the ventilation system (1), which is an air handling unit, when increasing the amount of supply air, the proportion of return air may be controlled to increase in order to reduce the load caused by ventilation.

[0077] The control unit (34) may adjust the ventilation airflow and the equivalent ventilation airflow to maintain the total airflow, which is the sum of the ventilation airflow of the ventilation device (10) and the equivalent ventilation airflow including the airflow of the return air (61) circulated between the air conditioning device (20) and the target space (A), at or above a target value for the total airflow (a predetermined target value). In other words, the control unit (34) may not only adjust the equivalent ventilation airflow to maintain the total airflow at or above a target value for the total airflow, but may also adjust the ventilation airflow by controlling the ventilation device (10). In this case, the ventilation airflow is maintained at or above the required ventilation volume and adjusted within a range that does not fall below the required ventilation volume.

[0078] The target value of the total airflow (a predetermined target value) may be set based on the volume of the target space (A). That is, the control unit (34) sets the target value of the total airflow based on the volume of the target space (A). In this case, the target value of the total airflow is, for example, the product of the volume of the target space (A) and a predetermined target ventilation rate. In this case, the target value of the total airflow increases in proportion to the volume of the target space (A). The target value of the total airflow is stored in the memory unit (33). The volume of the target space (A) and the target ventilation rate are input, for example, from the input unit (32). The target ventilation rate is set, for example, according to the use of the target space (A). The target ventilation rate is set by, for example, a public institution such as the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, an academic organization such as the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE 170-2021, etc.), or an industry association such as the Japan Medical and Welfare Equipment Association (HEAS-02-2022, etc.). The target ventilation rate is a value greater than or equal to the required ventilation rate.

[0079] While embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that a variety of changes in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Furthermore, the above embodiments, examples, modifications, and other embodiments may be combined or substituted as appropriate, as long as they do not impair the functions covered by this disclosure.

[0080] The designations "1st," "2nd," "3rd," etc., mentioned above are used to distinguish between the terms to which these designations are attached, and do not limit the number or order of those terms. [Industrial applicability]

[0081] As described above, this disclosure is useful for information processing devices, ventilation systems, and air conditioning methods. [Explanation of symbols]

[0082] 1. Ventilation System 10 Ventilation system 20 Air conditioning system 21 Temperature control section 22 Air purification unit 34 Control Unit 35 Acquisition Department 61 Return air 63 Outside air A Target space

Claims

1. The system includes a control unit (34) that controls a ventilation device (10) for ventilating a target space (A) and an air conditioning device (20) which includes an air purification unit (22) for purifying the air in the target space (A). The control unit (34) An information processing device that maintains the ventilation airflow, which is the airflow rate of outside air (63) sent to the target space (A) by the ventilation device (10), at or above a predetermined required ventilation rate, while adjusting the equivalent ventilation airflow, which is the sum of the ventilation airflow and the equivalent ventilation airflow including the airflow of the air conditioning device (20), at or above a predetermined target value.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit (34) further adjusts the ventilation airflow in order to maintain the total airflow at or above a predetermined target value.

3. The information processing device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the predetermined target value is set to a value corresponding to the number of people in the target space (A), or is set based on the volume of the target space (A).

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unit (34) adjusts the equivalent ventilation airflow according to the number of people in the target space (A) while maintaining the ventilation airflow at a constant level.

5. A ventilation system comprising the information processing device described in claim 1 or claim 2, the ventilation device (10), and the air conditioning device (20).

6. The ventilation device (10) is equipped with an output unit that outputs the ventilation air volume, The ventilation system according to claim 5, wherein the control unit (34) determines that there is an abnormality in the ventilation device (10) if the output result of the output unit is less than the required ventilation volume.

7. The ventilation system according to claim 6, wherein the control unit (34) adjusts the equivalent ventilation airflow so that the total airflow is equal to or greater than the required ventilation amount when there is an abnormality in the ventilation device (10).

8. The ventilation system according to claim 6, further comprising a notification unit for notifying information regarding an abnormality in the ventilation device (10).

9. The system includes an air purifier (70) that purifies the air in the aforementioned target space (A), The air conditioning device (20) includes a temperature control unit (21) that controls the temperature of the air in the target space (A), The equivalent ventilation airflow is the sum of the airflow from the air conditioning device (20) and the airflow from the air purifier (70). The ventilation system according to claim 5, wherein the control unit (34) adjusts the ratio of the airflow from the air conditioner (20) to the airflow from the air purifier (70) in the equivalent ventilation airflow based on the external environment or the operating status of the temperature control unit (21).

10. A first output unit that outputs the dust collection rate of the air purification unit (22), A second output unit that outputs the airflow rate of the return air (61) sent from the target space (A) to the air conditioning device (20) and Equipped with, The ventilation system according to claim 5, wherein the control unit (34) outputs the equivalent ventilation air volume based on the output result of the first output unit and the output result of the second output unit.

11. The process includes a control step for controlling a ventilation device (10) that ventilates a target space (A) and an air conditioning device (20) that includes an air purification unit (22) that purifies the air in the target space (A). In the control process described above, An air conditioning method that maintains the ventilation airflow, which is the amount of outside air (63) sent to the target space (A) by the ventilation device (10), at or above a predetermined required ventilation rate, while adjusting the equivalent ventilation airflow, which is the sum of the ventilation airflow and the equivalent ventilation airflow including the airflow of the air conditioning device (20), at or above a predetermined target value.

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