Air conditioning system, control method, and program

Abstract

Address any issues that users find unpleasant. [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, comprising: a determination unit that determines a first set temperature as the set temperature of the air conditioning device; a determination unit that determines whether or not a first user in the space to be air-conditioned, which is air-conditioned at the determined first set temperature, feels uncomfortable; and a processing unit that, if it is determined that the first user feels uncomfortable, executes processing according to the determination result.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a management system including a management server communicably connected to a plurality of air conditioners, in which the management server determines an optimal set temperature based on the outside air temperature and the change history of the past set temperature, and sets the set temperature in the plurality of air conditioners.

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, and a program that can address the case where a user feels uncomfortable.

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 a determination unit that determines a first set temperature as the set temperature to be set in the air conditioner, a determination unit that determines whether a first user in the air-conditioned space air-conditioned at the determined first set temperature feels uncomfortable, and a processing unit that executes processing according to the determination result when it is determined that the first user feels uncomfortable.

[0006] Furthermore, the control method in this disclosure involves a computer determining a first set temperature as the set temperature to be set on an air conditioning device that air-conditions a space to be air-conditioned, determining whether a first user in the air-conditioned space air-conditioned at the determined first set temperature feels uncomfortable, and if it is determined that the first user feels uncomfortable, executing a process according to the result of that determination.

[0007] Furthermore, the program in this disclosure causes a computer to determine a first set temperature as the set temperature to be set on an air conditioning device that air-conditions a space to be air-conditioned, to determine whether a first user in the air-conditioned space air-conditioned at the determined first set temperature feels uncomfortable, and, if it is determined that the first user feels uncomfortable, to execute a process according to the result of that determination. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The air conditioning system, control method, and program described herein can address situations where the user feels uncomfortable. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the configuration of the air conditioning system in Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] A diagram showing an example configuration of the management server in Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] A diagram showing an example of management data in Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] A diagram illustrating the updating of the number of actual results in Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] A diagram illustrating the update of the number of changes in Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] Flowchart showing an example of the operation of the management server in Embodiment 1 [Figure 7] Flowchart showing an example of operation for changing the settings of the management server in Embodiment 1 [Figure 8] Flowchart showing an example of operation for changing the settings of the management server in Embodiment 2 [Figure 9] A diagram illustrating the case where the reference for the set temperature in Embodiment 3 is changed. [Figure 10] Diagram illustrating the operating state of the management server in Embodiment 4. [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 in which a management server determined the optimal set temperature based on the outside temperature and the history of past temperature setting changes, and then set that temperature for the air conditioning system. However, if users frequently change the set temperature, it is likely that users feel uncomfortable with the air conditioning at that temperature. The inventors discovered that conventional technology could not adequately address such user discomfort, and in order to solve this problem, they came to form the subject of this disclosure.

[0011] Therefore, this disclosure provides an air conditioning system, control method, and program that can address situations where the user feels uncomfortable.

[0012] 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.

[0013] The attached drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0014] (Embodiment 1) [1-1. Structure] [1-1-1. Air Conditioning System Configuration] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning system in Embodiment 1. As shown in FIG. 1, 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, dehumidifying, blowing, ventilation, etc. In this 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 owned by the facility H and is a space to be air - conditioned by the air conditioner 1. The facility H includes, for example, a house, an office, a store (including the backyard), a medical facility, a public facility, etc.

[0015] The air conditioning system 1000 includes the air conditioner 1. In the example of FIG. 1, the air conditioning system 1000 includes four or more air conditioners 1. 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. The air conditioner 1 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.

[0016] The air conditioning system 1000 includes the terminal device 2. The terminal device 2 is a terminal used by the administrator P who manages the facility H. The administrator P is not limited to a person and may be a subject having the management authority of the facility H (for example, a company operating the facility H). This administrator P is an example of a user.

[0017] In the example of FIG. 1, the terminal device 2 is a laptop computer, but it may also be a tablet computer, a desktop computer, or a smartphone. The terminal device 2 is connected to the network NW. The terminal device 2 displays information related to the air conditioner 1, such as power consumption, for each facility H. Also, the terminal device 2 makes various setting inputs to the management server 3 based on the operation of the administrator P.

[0018] The air conditioning system 1000 includes a management server 3. The management server 3 is a server device 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. The management server 3 may be a server device owned by administrator P, or it may be a server device not owned by administrator P.

[0019] The air conditioning system 1000 is equipped with a weather server 4. The weather server 4 is a server device that provides a service of providing weather data. The weather data provided by the weather server 4 includes at least the forecast value of the outside temperature of facility H. For example, the weather data provided by the weather server 4 includes actual measured values ​​of the outside temperature, humidity, wind direction, wind speed, and weather conditions from the past (several hours ago) to the present, and predicted values ​​for the future (several hours later), for a predetermined area associated with the location information of facility H, such as the address and postal code of facility H. The weather server 4 may also calculate and provide pinpoint weather data for facility H from the location information of facility H.

[0020] 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.

[0021] The air conditioning system 1000 includes an indoor camera 5 that captures images of the air-conditioned space S. The indoor camera 5 is an example of an imaging unit. The indoor camera 5 is a surveillance camera installed in facility H facing the air-conditioned space S. Multiple indoor cameras 5 may be installed in facility H to capture images of the entire air-conditioned space S. The indoor camera 5 transmits the captured video data to the management server 3 via the network NW.

[0022] [1-1-2. Configuration of Air Conditioning System 1] 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. Note that the number of indoor units 11 and outdoor units 12 in the air conditioning system 1 may be multiple.

[0023] 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.

[0024] The remote control 13 is installed on a wall or the like in the air-conditioned space S. The remote control 13 has multiple operation buttons for the user of the air conditioner 1 to start or stop operation, operate menus, use cursor keys, etc. The remote control 13 also has a display panel that displays, for example, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 and the operating status of the indoor unit 11.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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 (Identification), date and time of change, type of air conditioner, set temperature before change, and set temperature after change.

[0027] The air conditioner ID is the identification information for air conditioning unit 1. The change date and time is the date and time when the set temperature of air conditioning unit 1 was changed. The air conditioning type is the type of air conditioning performed by air conditioning unit 1, and in this embodiment, it indicates cooling or heating. The set temperature before change is the set temperature of air conditioning unit 1 before the change. The set temperature after change is the set temperature of air conditioning unit 1 after the change.

[0028] The communication device 14 receives configuration data SD from the management server 3. The configuration data SD contains configuration information related to the air conditioning of the air conditioning unit 1. For example, the configuration data SD is data that instructs the setting of the temperature of the air conditioning unit 1, and the temperature to be set in the air conditioning unit 1 is recorded. The communication device 14 operates the air conditioning unit 1 based on the received configuration data SD. For example, the communication device 14 operates the air conditioning unit 1 at the temperature recorded in the configuration data SD.

[0029] [1-1-3. Configuration of Management Server 3] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the management server 3 in Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 2, the management server 3 comprises a server control device 30 and a server communication device 31.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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).

[0032] 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 air conditioner ID, communication information, location of facility H, air conditioning type, current set temperature, management data, and administrator settings.

[0033] The communication information is information for communicating with the air conditioning unit 1, 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 unit 1 is installed, for example, the address of facility H. The current set temperature is the set temperature set on the air conditioning unit 1.

[0034] The management data is data used to manage the operating performance of the air conditioning unit 1 during heating and cooling. Specifically, the management data includes information related to changes in the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1.

[0035] Figure 3 shows an example of management data in Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 3, the management data MD records time periods in one-hour increments from 0:00 to 23:59. More specifically, the management data MD records time periods from N:00 to N:59 for each of the 0:00 to 23:00 time periods. Here, N is an integer from 0 to 23.

[0036] Furthermore, the management data MD records multiple ambient temperatures in 1°C increments. The range of ambient temperatures recorded in the management data MD includes at least the range of temperatures that the ambient air at facility H can reach. Note that the range of ambient temperatures recorded in the management data MD may be the same regardless of the location of facility H, or it may be a different range depending on the location of facility H.

[0037] The management data MD records one collection data AD for each pair of time period and outside temperature. The collection data AD contains information related to the history of changes in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1. The collection data AD collects various data within a predetermined range of the set temperature. The set temperature to be set on the air conditioner 1 is determined from the predetermined range of the set temperature indicated by the collection data AD by the processing of the flowchart described later.

[0038] The collected data AD records the set temperatures of multiple air conditioners 1 in 1°C increments within a predetermined range. In the example in Figure 3, the collected data AD records 23°C, 24°C, 25°C, 26°C, and 27°C. In other words, in the example in Figure 3, the predetermined range of set temperatures shown in the collected data AD is 23°C to 27°C.

[0039] The collected data AD records the number of actual settings, the number of changes, and the probability of change for each recorded set temperature. In other words, the collected data AD is an example of the set temperature change history. In the example in Figure 3, the collected data AD records the number of actual settings, the number of changes, and the probability of change for each of the following temperatures: 23°C, 24°C, 25°C, 26°C, and 27°C.

[0040] The "actual count" indicates the number of times the corresponding set temperature was set to air conditioner 1. The "number of changes" indicates the number of times the corresponding set temperature was changed to another set temperature. The "probability of changes" indicates the probability that the corresponding set temperature was changed to another set temperature. The probability of changes is calculated, for example, by dividing the corresponding number of changes by the corresponding actual count.

[0041] Returning to Figure 2, the administrator settings are data pre-configured by administrator P via terminal device 2. These administrator settings include various settings for the air conditioning unit 1.

[0042] For example, the administrator settings include the set temperatures to be set for air conditioning unit 1 during heating and cooling (for cooling / for heating). The set temperatures in these administrator settings are the heating and cooling temperatures that administrator P has determined to be comfortable for general users of facility H within the air-conditioned space S. Although general users of facility H and administrator P who manages facility H are separate users, if administrator P uses facility H, administrator P is also considered a general user.

[0043] Furthermore, the administrator settings include target values ​​for the energy-saving performance (hereinafter sometimes abbreviated as "energy saving") of the air conditioning unit 1 during heating and cooling. These energy-saving performance target values ​​included in the administrator settings are used as a standard when determining the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1 (details will be described later).

[0044] Here, the energy-saving performance of the air conditioning system 1 indicates how much energy can be reduced compared to the amount of energy consumed during standard conventional heating and cooling operation. For example, energy-saving performance can be expressed as the energy saving rate (energy saving rate), which is the percentage (%) of energy saved compared to the standard energy consumption during heating and cooling. As an example, the administrator settings include a target energy saving rate as a target value for energy-saving performance.

[0045] Furthermore, the administrator settings include the time it takes to revert the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 back to its original setting after it has been changed based on the administrator settings. This time to revert to the original setting is a value set appropriately by administrator P, such as 24 hours.

[0046] The server communication device 31 is equipped with hardware such as a communication circuit that conforms to a predetermined communication standard. The server communication device 31 communicates with the air conditioner 1, terminal device 2, weather server 4, and indoor camera 5 in accordance with the control of the server control device 30.

[0047] The server processor 300 functions as a communication control unit 301, acquisition unit 302, update unit 303, determination unit 304, setting unit 305, judgment unit 306, and modification unit 307 by reading and executing the control program 311 stored in the server memory 310.

[0048] The communication control unit 301 communicates with the air conditioner 1, terminal device 2, weather server 4, and indoor camera 5 via the server communication device 31.

[0049] The acquisition unit 302 acquires the outside air temperature. The acquisition unit 302 processes one record R and acquires the outside air temperature based on the record R being processed. More specifically, the acquisition unit 302 generates forecast value request information based on the record R being processed and outputs the generated forecast value request information to the communication control unit 301. The forecast value request information is information requesting a forecast value of the outside air temperature for a time period including the current time, and it records the location of the facility H recorded in the record R being processed and the time period for 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. Note that H is an integer from 0 to 24, and M is an integer from 0 to 59.

[0050] When the communication control unit 301 receives forecast value request information from the acquisition unit 302, it transmits the received forecast value request information to the weather server 4. The communication control unit 301 then receives from the weather server 4 multiple forecast values ​​corresponding to the location and time period of facility H recorded in the transmitted forecast value request information. The acquisition unit 302 calculates the average of the forecast values ​​received by the communication control unit 301 and acquires the calculated average value as the outside temperature. In this embodiment, when the acquisition unit 302 calculates the average value of the forecast values, it either truncates the decimal part or rounds it to the nearest whole number.

[0051] The update unit 303 updates the management DB 312. Every hour at L minutes, the update unit 303 updates the actual count recorded in the collected data AD. The update unit 303 updates the actual count for each record R. Here, L is an integer from 0 to 59, for example, 0. To elaborate on the update of the actual count, every hour at L minutes, the update unit 303 first causes the acquisition unit 302 to acquire the outside temperature based on the record R to be processed. Next, the update unit 303 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 temperature and degree acquired by the acquisition unit 302. Then, the update unit 303 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. The update unit 303 also updates the change probability corresponding to the incremented actual count to a change probability that reflects the actual count after the increment.

[0052] Now, with reference to Figure 4, we will explain how to update the actual count. Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating how to update the actual count in Embodiment 1.

[0053] The explanation in Figure 4 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 302 is 34°C. The explanation in Figure 4 also illustrates a case where the air conditioning unit 1 is operating in cooling mode. In the case of Figure 4, the update unit 303 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 management data MD recorded in the record R to be processed.

[0054] In the explanation of Figure 4, 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 4, we illustrate the case where the set temperature set in the air conditioner 1 is 25°C. In the case of Figure 4, the update unit 303 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 4, along with the update of the actual occurrences, the update unit 303 updates the change probability corresponding to 25°C from "3 / 4" to "3 / 5".

[0055] Next, the update of the update unit 303 will be explained. When the communication control unit 301 receives operation data RD, the update unit 303 updates the management DB 312 based on the received operation data RD. The update unit 303 identifies the record R containing the air conditioner ID of the received operation data RD from the management DB 312. Then, the update unit 303 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 303 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 303 causes the acquisition unit 302 to acquire the outside air temperature based on the record R identified by the received operation data RD. Next, the update unit 303 identifies the collected data AD corresponding to the time period including the current time and the outside air temperature / degrees acquired by the acquisition unit 302 from the management data MD of the identified record R.

[0057] Next, the update unit 303 refers to the received operation data RD and increments the number of changes recorded in the identified collected data AD that corresponds to the pre-change setting temperature recorded in the received operation data RD.

[0058] Furthermore, the update unit 303 also updates the change probability corresponding to the incremented number of changes to reflect the change probability after the increment.

[0059] Now, with reference to Figure 5, we will explain how to update the number of changes. Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating how to update the number of changes in Embodiment 1.

[0060] Figure 5 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 302 is 34°C. Figure 5 also illustrates a case where the air conditioning unit 1 is operating in cooling mode. In Figure 5, the update unit 303 identifies the collected data AD corresponding to the 2 PM hour and the outside temperature of 34°C from the management data MD recorded in the record R to be processed.

[0061] In the explanation of Figure 5, 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 5, 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 303 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 5, the update unit 303 updates the change probability corresponding to 25°C from "3 / 4" to "4 / 4" along with the update of the number of changes.

[0062] Returning to the explanation of Figure 2, the determination unit 304 determines the set temperature to be set in the air conditioner 1. Details of the determination method of the determination unit 304 will be described later.

[0063] The setting unit 305 sets the set temperature determined by the determination unit 304 to the air conditioner 1. The setting unit 305 sets the set temperature to the air conditioner 1 based on the record R to be processed. More specifically, the setting 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 communication control unit 301. The generated setting data SD contains the set temperature determined by the determination unit 304. Based on the communication information received from the setting unit 305, the communication control unit 301 transmits the setting data SD received from the setting unit 305 to the air conditioner 1.

[0064] The determination unit 306 determines whether a user in the conditioned space S, which has been air-conditioned by the air conditioning device 1 at the set temperature determined by the decision unit 304, feels uncomfortable with the air conditioning at the set temperature. Specifically, the determination unit 306 determines whether a user feels uncomfortable based on the conditions in the conditioned space S (air conditioning environment, user behavior) after the setting unit 305 has set the set temperature determined by the decision unit 304 to the air conditioning device 1.

[0065] For example, the determination unit 306 calculates the frequency of instructions to change the set temperature based on the operation data RD notified from the air conditioning unit 1. If the set temperature is changed frequently, it is considered that the user is uncomfortable with the air conditioning at the set temperature. Therefore, if the frequency of instructions to change the set temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, the determination unit 306 determines that the user in the air-conditioned space S is uncomfortable with the air conditioning at the set temperature. As an example, the determination unit 306 determines that the user is uncomfortable with the air conditioning if the set temperature has been changed three or more times in the last hour.

[0066] Furthermore, the determination unit 306 calculates a discomfort index for the air-conditioned space S based on the temperature and humidity detected by the sensor of the air conditioning unit 1. The determination unit 306 determines that the users in the air-conditioned space S are uncomfortable with the air conditioning at the set temperature if the calculated discomfort index meets a predetermined standard (for example, 75-80 or higher, where half of the users feel uncomfortable).

[0067] Furthermore, the determination unit 306 acquires video footage from the indoor camera 5 via the communication control unit 301 and uses known video analysis techniques to detect changes in the user's clothing within the air-conditioned space S (wearing a jacket, taking off a jacket, not wearing a jacket, putting on a jacket, etc.). Based on the detected changes in clothing, the determination unit 306 determines whether or not the user within the air-conditioned space S is uncomfortable with the air conditioning at the set temperature.

[0068] For example, during cooling, if a user who is wearing a jacket takes off their jacket, the determination unit 306 determines that the user is feeling too hot and uncomfortable with the air conditioning set to the desired temperature. Also, during heating, if a user who is not wearing a jacket puts on a jacket, the determination unit 306 determines that the user is feeling too cold and uncomfortable with the air conditioning set to the desired temperature.

[0069] The modification unit 307 executes processing according to the determination result when the determination unit 306 determines that a user in the air-conditioned space S is uncomfortable with the air conditioning at the set temperature. The modification unit 307 is an example of a processing unit. For example, if the determination unit 306 determines that a user in the air-conditioned space S is uncomfortable with the air conditioning at the set temperature, the modification unit 307 causes the determination unit 304 to change the set temperature.

[0070] Specifically, if the determination unit 306 determines that the user is feeling uncomfortable, the modification unit 307 stops the air conditioning at the set temperature determined by the decision unit 304. Next, the modification unit 307 identifies a record R in the management DB 312 that relates to the air conditioning unit 1 (air conditioner ID) corresponding to the location of the facility in the air-conditioned space S where the user is feeling uncomfortable. Next, the modification unit 307 reads the administrator settings contained in the identified record R and identifies the set temperature that the administrator P has determined to be comfortable. The modification unit 307 notifies the decision unit 304 of the identified set temperature, causing the decision unit 304 to change the set temperature it determines to the set temperature that the administrator P has determined to be comfortable.

[0071] The modification unit 307 determines whether the time specified in the administrator settings for reverting to the original setting has elapsed after the administrator P has changed the temperature to a setting that the administrator P deems comfortable. If the time specified for reverting to the original setting has elapsed, the modification unit 307 notifies the decision unit 304 to revert the change. As a result, the decision unit 304 cancels the change made by the modification unit 307 and resumes air conditioning at the setting temperature determined by the decision unit 304.

[0072] The processing performed by the modification unit 307 in response to the determination that the user finds the air conditioning at the set temperature uncomfortable is merely an example, and other processing may be performed instead. For example, if the modification unit 307 determines that the user finds the air conditioning at the set temperature uncomfortable, it may leave the setting temperature to the user. For example, the modification unit 307 may stop the process of changing the set temperature and wait for the user to change the set temperature via the terminal device 2 or remote control 13, etc.

[0073] Furthermore, for example, if the modification unit 307 determines that the user is uncomfortable with the air conditioning at the set temperature, it may change the airflow of the air conditioner 1 via the communication control unit 301. As an example, if the set airflow of the air conditioner 1 is less than a predetermined airflow, the modification unit 307 will change the setting to a larger airflow. Conversely, if the set airflow of the air conditioner 1 is greater than a predetermined airflow, the modification unit 307 will change the setting to a smaller airflow.

[0074] Furthermore, for example, if the modification unit 307 determines that the user is uncomfortable with the air conditioning at the set temperature, it will not change the set temperature at the time of that determination. Then, the modification unit 307 may change the criterion and determine the set temperature at the next time the set temperature is determined (for example, one hour later if the temperature is determined at 0 minutes past the hour).

[0075] [1-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each part of the air conditioning system 1000 according to Embodiment 1 will be described.

[0076] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the management server 3 in Embodiment 1. The flowchart in Figure 6 shows an example of the operation of the management server 3 performed for each air conditioning unit 1. In other words, the flowchart in Figure 6 shows the operation performed for each record R stored in the management DB 312.

[0077] As shown in Figure 6, the acquisition unit 302 acquires the outside temperature based on the record R to be processed (S1). The process for acquiring the outside temperature (S1) will be described in detail. The acquisition unit 302 generates forecast value request information based on the record R to be processed and outputs the generated forecast value request information to the communication control unit 301. For example, if the current time is 10:00, the forecast value request information will contain time periods such as 10:00 to 11:00, 11:00 to 12:00, 12:00 to 1:00, etc. Note that the time periods included in the forecast value request information are, as an example, up to 8 hours ahead of the current time. When the communication control unit 301 receives the forecast value request information from the acquisition unit 302, it transmits the received forecast value request information to the weather server 4. The communication control unit 301 then receives from the weather server 4 multiple forecast values ​​(for example, a forecast value for 10:00 and a forecast value for 11:00) corresponding to the location and time of facility H recorded in the transmitted forecast value request information. The acquisition unit 302 calculates the average of the forecast values ​​received by the communication control unit 301 for each time period and acquires the calculated average value as the outside temperature. For example, the acquisition unit 302 acquires the outside temperature for the time period from 10:00 to 11:00 by averaging the forecast value for 10:00 and the forecast value for 11:00.

[0078] Next, the determination unit 304 identifies the collection data AD to be processed from the management data MD recorded in the record R to be processed (S2). The process for identifying the collection data AD (S2) will be described in detail. If the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed indicates cooling, the determination unit 304 identifies the collection data AD corresponding to each time period and the set of outside temperature and temperature acquired in S1 from the first management data MD1 recorded in the record R to be processed. If the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed indicates heating, the determination unit 304 identifies the collection data AD corresponding to each time period and the set of outside temperature and temperature acquired in step S1 from the second management data MD2 recorded in the record R to be processed.

[0079] Next, the determination unit 304 performs a determination process (S3). The determination process is the process of determining the set temperature to be set for the air conditioner 1 for each time period. In the determination process, the collected data AD identified in S2 is the target of processing.

[0080] The decision process (S3) will be described in detail. In the decision process, the decision unit 304 reads the change probability for the set temperature from the collected data AD corresponding to the set temperature set. Next, the decision unit 304 identifies a set temperature for which the change probability satisfies predetermined conditions. For example, the decision unit 304 identifies a set temperature for which the user has made few changes, i.e., a set temperature below a predetermined threshold. Next, among the identified set temperatures, the decision unit 304 identifies a set temperature for which the energy consumption during operation of the air conditioner 1 will be low (energy saving). Specifically, the decision unit 304 sets the highest temperature among the identified set temperatures as the set temperature during cooling, and conversely, sets the lowest temperature among the identified temperatures as the set temperature during heating. In the decision process (S3), the above process is performed for each time period to determine the set temperature for each time period. As an example, the collected data AD corresponding to the set temperature set is the collected data AD in Figure 3, and the threshold is set to 10%. In this case, in the collected data AD in Figure 3, 24°C has a change probability of 0%, and 25°C has a change probability of 75%. Therefore, 24°C is a temperature that does not exceed the threshold of 10%. Accordingly, the determination unit 204 determines 24°C as the set temperature.

[0081] Next, the setting unit 305 sets the determined set temperature for each time period to the air conditioner 1 (S4). Specifically, the setting unit 305 notifies the air conditioner 1 via the communication control unit 301 of the set data SD, which is a set of the outside air temperature and the set temperature for each time period.

[0082] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of changing the settings of the management server 3 in Embodiment 1. The flowchart in Figure 7 shows an example of the operation of the management server 3 performed for each air conditioner 1 after the set temperature has been set for each air conditioner 1 by the operation of the flowchart in Figure 6. In other words, the flowchart in Figure 7 shows the operation performed for each record R stored in the management DB 312.

[0083] As shown in Figure 7, the determination unit 306 determines whether the air conditioning of the air conditioning device 1 at the set temperature determined by the decision unit 304 is uncomfortable for the user in the air-conditioned space S (S11).

[0084] If the setting is not unpleasant for the user (S11: No), the modification unit 307 leaves the setting unchanged for the set temperature determined by the determination unit 304 (S12).

[0085] If the user finds the temperature uncomfortable (S11: Yes), the modification unit 307 causes the determination unit 304 to change the set temperature (S13). Specifically, the modification unit 307 stops the air conditioning at the set temperature determined by the determination unit 304. Next, the modification unit 307 reads the administrator settings included in record R and notifies the determination unit 304 of the set temperature that administrator P has determined to be comfortable. As a result, the modification unit 307 causes the determination unit 304 to change the set temperature it has determined to be comfortable.

[0086] Next, the modification unit 307 determines whether a predetermined time (the time until the original setting is restored) has elapsed since the setting change (S14). If the predetermined time has not elapsed (S14: No), the modification unit 307 waits for processing.

[0087] If a predetermined time has elapsed (S14: Yes), the modification unit 307 notifies the decision unit 304 to revert the setting change, and the setting temperature is restored to its original state (S15). In other words, the modification unit 307 restarts the air conditioning at the set temperature determined by the decision unit 304.

[0088] [1-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, in the air conditioning system 1000, the determination unit 304 determines the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1 based on the history of changes to the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1. The judgment unit 306 determines whether or not a user in the air-conditioned space S, which is air-conditioned at the set temperature determined by the determination unit 304, feels uncomfortable. If the change unit 307 determines that a user in the air-conditioned space S feels uncomfortable, it causes the determination unit 304 to change the set temperature.

[0089] According to this, if the air conditioning system 1000 determines that a user in the air-conditioned space S is feeling uncomfortable, the determination unit 304 changes the determined set temperature, thereby addressing the user's discomfort.

[0090] Furthermore, if the modification unit 307 determines that a user in the air-conditioned space S is feeling uncomfortable, it will change the temperature to a setting previously configured by the administrator P as an administrator setting.

[0091] According to this, the air conditioning system 1000 can prevent users from feeling uncomfortable by changing the set temperature within the air-conditioned space S to a temperature that the administrator P has determined to be comfortable.

[0092] Furthermore, the determination unit 306 determines whether or not a user is feeling uncomfortable based on the frequency of user requests to change the set temperature within the air-conditioned space S.

[0093] According to this, the air conditioning system 1000 can accurately determine that the user is uncomfortable with the air conditioning at the set temperature, given that the set temperature is being changed frequently.

[0094] Furthermore, the determination unit 306 determines whether or not a user in the air-conditioned space S is feeling uncomfortable based on the discomfort index applied to the air-conditioned space S.

[0095] According to this, the air conditioning system 1000 can accurately determine whether the user is feeling uncomfortable with the air conditioning at the set temperature, based on an index of the air conditioning environment that is based on the discomfort index.

[0096] Furthermore, the air conditioning system 1000 is equipped with an indoor camera 5 that takes pictures of the air-conditioned space S. The determination unit 306 determines whether or not a user is feeling uncomfortable based on changes in the user's clothing detected from the video footage taken by the indoor camera 5.

[0097] According to this, the air conditioning system 1000 can accurately determine that the user is uncomfortable with the air conditioning at the set temperature based on changes in the user's clothing, such as taking off or putting on a jacket.

[0098] (Embodiment 2) Next, Embodiment 2 will be described.

[0099] [2-1. Structure] The configuration of each part of the air conditioning system 1000 in Embodiment 2 is the same as the configuration of each part of the air conditioning system 1000 in Embodiment 1, and a detailed explanation thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0100] [2-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each part of the air conditioning system 1000 in Embodiment 2 will be described. Embodiment 2 differs from Embodiment 1 only in the process shown in S13 of Figure 7; all other processes are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0101] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of changing the settings of the management server in Embodiment 2. The flowchart in Figure 8 shows an example of the operation in Embodiment 2 for the process related to S13 in Figure 7.

[0102] As shown in Figure 8, when the modification unit 307 changes the set temperature determined by the determination unit 304, it queries the terminal device 2 whether or not to stop the determination of the set temperature by the management server 3 based on the change history (server setting) (S21). Specifically, the modification unit 307 sends a notification (for example, displaying a pop-up screen) to the administrator P's terminal device 2 via the communication control unit 301 to make the above query. In response to this query, the administrator P replies whether or not to stop the server setting by giving an operation instruction on the terminal device 2.

[0103] Next, the modification unit 307 determines whether or not to stop the server configuration based on the response from the terminal device 2 via the communication control unit 301 (S22).

[0104] If the server settings are to be stopped (S22:Yes), the modification unit 307 changes the setting temperature determined by the determination unit 304 to the setting temperature set by administrator P, based on the administrator settings included in record R (S23).

[0105] If the server settings are not stopped (S22: No), the modification unit 307 will leave the setting temperature determined by the decision unit 304 unchanged (S24). In some cases, administrator P may not immediately respond regarding whether or not to stop the server settings. In such cases, it will be treated as if the server settings are not stopped. Specifically, if administrator P does not respond from terminal device 2 within a predetermined time (e.g., 30 minutes), the modification unit 307 will leave the setting temperature determined by the decision unit 304 unchanged, assuming that the server settings will not be stopped (S22: No) (S24).

[0106] [2-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, in Embodiment 2, if the modification unit 307 determines that a user in the air-conditioned space S is feeling uncomfortable, it asks the administrator P whether or not to stop determining the set temperature based on the change history. Then, if the determination of the set temperature is to be stopped, the modification unit 307 has the administrator P change to a set temperature that has been set in advance as an administrator setting.

[0107] According to this, in the air conditioning system 1000, if the management server 3 is to stop determining the set temperature, it can inquire with the administrator P and change the set temperature to one that the administrator P has set in advance.

[0108] (Embodiment 3) Next, Embodiment 3 will be described.

[0109] [3-1. Structure] The configuration of each part of the air conditioning system 1000 in Embodiment 3 is the same as the configuration of each part of the air conditioning system 1000 in Embodiment 1, and a detailed explanation thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0110] [3-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each part of the air conditioning system 1000 in Embodiment 3 will be described. Embodiment 3 differs from Embodiment 1 in that, when changing the set temperature determined by the determination unit 304, the criteria used to determine the set temperature are changed to criteria set in advance by the administrator P.

[0111] Specifically, when the modification unit 307 modifies the setting temperature determined by the determination unit 304, it obtains the energy-saving performance target value (energy saving rate) included in the administrator settings of record R. Then, the modification unit 307 notifies the determination unit 304 of the obtained energy-saving performance target value. The determination unit 304 determines the setting temperature based on the energy-saving performance target value notified by the modification unit 307.

[0112] Specifically, the determination unit 304 refers to table data showing the correspondence between the target value of energy-saving performance (energy-saving rate) and the probability of change, and replaces the target value of energy-saving performance with the corresponding probability of change. This table data showing the correspondence with the probability of change is created in advance based on past performance of the target facility or similar facilities, or simulations. The determination unit 304 uses the probability of change corresponding to the target value of energy-saving performance as a reference (threshold) and identifies the set temperature from the collected data AD. Then, similar to Embodiment 1, the determination unit 304 identifies (determines) the set temperature among the identified set temperatures that reduces the energy consumption (energy saving) during operation of the air conditioner 1.

[0113] Figure 9 illustrates the case where the reference for the set temperature in Embodiment 3 is changed. As shown in Figure 9, the administrator P pre-configures the settings to lower the target energy saving rate as an administrator setting (S31).

[0114] For example, if the target energy efficiency is high, comfort, which is in a trade-off relationship with energy efficiency, will be low. Conversely, if the target energy efficiency is low, comfort, which is in a trade-off relationship with energy efficiency, will be high.

[0115] Therefore, administrator P pre-configures settings to lower the target energy efficiency rate so that they can address situations where comfort levels are low and users feel uncomfortable. Here, the setting to lower the target energy efficiency rate may be a predetermined energy efficiency rate, such as from 20% to 15%, or from 15% to 10%. Alternatively, the setting to lower the target energy efficiency rate may be a numerical value that lowers the energy efficiency rate relatively from the initial energy efficiency rate. Furthermore, the setting to lower the target energy efficiency rate may be to lower the target energy efficiency rate by a predetermined number of steps (for example, by one step).

[0116] For example, if the target energy saving rate for the 8-10 o'clock time slot during cooling is 10%, the determination unit 304 sets the probability of changing the corresponding set temperature to 5%. Then, using this 5% change probability as a threshold, the determination unit 304 identifies set temperatures below the threshold from among the candidate set temperatures at an outside temperature of 30.0°C (...25.5°C, 26.0°C, 26.5°C, 27.0°C, 27.5°C...). In the illustrated example, 26.0°C and 25.5°C are identified. Then, the determination unit 304 decides that 26.0°C, the highest of the identified set temperatures, is the set temperature.

[0117] Furthermore, if the target energy saving rate is 15%, the determination unit 304 sets the probability of changing the corresponding set temperature to 10%. Then, using this 10% change probability as a threshold, the determination unit 304 identifies set temperatures below the threshold from among the candidate set temperatures at an outside temperature of 30.0°C (...25.5°C, 26.0°C, 26.5°C, 27.0°C, 27.5°C...). In the illustrated example, 26.5°C, 26.0°C, and 25.5°C are identified. Then, the determination unit 304 decides that 26.5°C, the highest of the identified set temperatures, is the set temperature.

[0118] Furthermore, if the target energy saving rate is 20%, the determination unit 304 sets the probability of changing the corresponding set temperature to 15%. Then, using this 15% change probability as a threshold, the determination unit 304 identifies set temperatures below the threshold from among the candidate set temperatures at an outside temperature of 30.0°C (...25.5°C, 26.0°C, 26.5°C, 27.0°C, 27.5°C...). In the illustrated example, 27.0°C, 26.5°C, 26.0°C, and 25.5°C are identified. Then, the determination unit 304 decides that 27.0°C, the highest of the identified set temperatures, is the set temperature.

[0119] [3-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, in Embodiment 3, if the modification unit 307 determines that a user in the air-conditioned space S is feeling uncomfortable, it causes the determination unit 304 to change the criteria used to determine the set temperature based on the change history to the criteria previously set by the administrator P.

[0120] According to this, in the air conditioning system 1000, if a user in the air-conditioned space S feels uncomfortable, the system can address the discomfort by changing the criteria used to determine the set temperature to a pre-set criterion that enhances comfort.

[0121] (Embodiment 4) Next, Embodiment 4 will be described.

[0122] [4-1. Structure] The configuration of each part of the air conditioning system 1000 in Embodiment 4 is the same as the configuration of each part of the air conditioning system 1000 in Embodiment 1, and a detailed explanation thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0123] [4-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each part of the air conditioning system 1000 in Embodiment 4 will be described. Embodiment 4 differs from Embodiment 1 in that the modification unit 307 notifies the user that the set temperature has been changed.

[0124] Specifically, the management server 3 notifies the terminal device 2 or the communication device 14 of the air conditioning system 1 of the operating status of the system (for example, the management server 3 in the air conditioning system 1000), including the processing status of the determination unit 304 and the modification unit 307, via the communication control unit 301. In other words, the communication control unit 301 is an example of a notification unit. Also, the terminal device 2 or the air conditioning system 1 is an example of an external device.

[0125] Terminal device 2 displays the operating status of management server 3 on a display screen or the like, based on notifications from management server 3. This allows the air conditioning system 1000 to notify administrator P of the operating status of management server 3 via terminal device 2.

[0126] The air conditioning unit 1 displays the operating status of the management server 3, received by the communication device 14, on the operation screen of the remote control 13, etc. This allows the air conditioning system 1000 to notify general users in the air-conditioned space S of the operating status of the management server 3 via the remote control 13.

[0127] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the operating states of the management server 3 in Embodiment 4. As shown in Figure 10, the operating states of the management server 3 include server configuration in progress (S41), server configuration stopped (S42), server configuration not in progress (S43), and server learning in progress (S44).

[0128] For example, when the setting unit 305 sets the set temperature determined by the determination unit 304 to the air conditioner 1, it notifies the terminal device 2 or the communication device 14 of the air conditioner 1 via the communication control unit 301 that the server setting operation is in progress (S41).

[0129] Furthermore, when the modification unit 307 stops and changes the setting of the set temperature determined by the determination unit 304, it notifies the terminal device 2 or the communication device 14 of the air conditioner 1 via the communication control unit 301 that the server setting is stopped (S42).

[0130] Furthermore, if the communication control unit 301 disables the server settings based on instructions from the terminal device 2, it notifies the terminal device 2 or the communication device 14 of the air conditioner 1 that the server settings are disabled (S43).

[0131] Furthermore, when the update unit 303 updates the management DB 312 based on the actual data recorded in the collected data AD to advance server learning, it notifies the terminal device 2 or the communication device 14 of the air conditioner 1 via the communication control unit 301 that server learning is in progress (S44). Here, regarding server learning in progress (S44), the update unit 303 may also notify the terminal device 2 or the communication device 14 of the air conditioner 1 of the progress of learning when learning is advanced based on the actual data recorded in the collected data AD. Regarding this progress of learning, if a sufficient number of actual data has been obtained, it can be considered that the user characteristics regarding setting changes have been sufficiently learned. Therefore, the change unit 303 calculates the progress of learning, for example, by determining the ratio of the actual number of actual data to a predetermined number of actual data.

[0132] [4-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, in Embodiment 4, the modification unit 307 notifies the administrator P or a general user that the setting temperature determined by the determination unit 304 will be changed.

[0133] According to this, the air conditioning system 1000 allows the user to easily confirm changes in the set temperature.

[0134] (Other embodiments) As described above, Embodiments 1 to 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 to 4. Therefore, other embodiments are described below as examples.

[0135] In the embodiments 1 to 4 described above, the management server 3 can detect (determine) that there are users who feel uncomfortable with the set temperature set on the air conditioner 1. In this way, users who feel uncomfortable with the settings of the management server 3 may cancel the service that the management server 3 sets the set temperature on the air conditioner 1. Therefore, in other embodiments, the communication control unit 301 may notify the service provider of information about the user (administrator P) of the service recipient when the number of times the judgment unit 306 has determined that a user is uncomfortable exceeds a predetermined threshold. An example of a threshold is that a user feels uncomfortable 15 times a week (an average of 3 times a day). Specifically, the communication control unit 301 notifies the service provider of information about the administrator P of facility H whose number of times it has determined that a user is uncomfortable exceeds a predetermined threshold, based on the identification information of each administrator P of facility H. This allows the service provider to analyze how users of facility H use the air conditioning, propose improvements to administrator P, and revise the control of management server 3 to apply those improvements to the users, thereby preventing the user (administrator P) of the service from canceling the service.

[0136] In embodiments 1 to 4 described above, the configuration includes the outside air temperature as a parameter for determining the set temperature to be set in the air conditioning system 1. In other embodiments, the configuration 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.

[0137] In other embodiments, the management server 3 may further store the update date and time when updating the number of actual changes or the number of modifications. In these other embodiments, the change probability may be calculated with priority given to updates with more recent update dates and times.

[0138] In embodiments 1 to 4 described above, the predetermined range indicated by the collected data AD is the range from 23°C to 27°C. However, this predetermined range 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 within the settable temperature range that the air conditioner 1 can set that is expected to be set by the user.

[0139] In embodiments 1 to 4 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 set temperature increments included in the predetermined range is not limited to 1°C, but may be, for example, 0.5°C increments.

[0140] In other embodiments, the terminal device 2 may be configured to perform operations related to the management server 3. Specifically, the terminal device 2 comprises a control device corresponding to the server control device 30, a storage device corresponding to the server memory 310, and a communication device corresponding to the server communication device 31. The control device of the terminal device 2 provides the functions of the communication control unit 301, acquisition unit 302, update unit 303, determination unit 304, setting unit 305, judgment unit 306, and modification unit 307 described above. In this case, the control device of the terminal device 2 corresponds to a "computer," and the program executed by the control device of the terminal device 2 corresponds to a "program." Furthermore, regarding the control of the air conditioning system 1, instead of the communication device 14, one of the indoor unit 11, outdoor unit 12, or remote control 13 may be configured to have the functions of the communication device 14 described above.

[0141] In embodiments 1 to 4 described above, the management data MD 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 determination unit 304 determines the set temperature based on the number of changes corresponding to the time period.

[0142] In embodiments 1 to 4 described above, the management data MD is configured to store the number of changes for each pair of time zone and ambient temperature. In other embodiments, instead of storing the number of changes for each set temperature, the server memory 310 may be configured to store the number of changes for each set temperature for each ambient temperature. In this other embodiment, the determination unit 304 determines the set temperature based on the number of changes corresponding to the ambient temperature.

[0143] In embodiments 1 to 4 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 302. In other words, in embodiments 1 to 4 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 a number of changes close to the current conditions (for example, a number of changes of ±1°C relative to the ambient temperature acquired by the acquisition unit 302).

[0144] The program executed by the management server 3, etc., in this embodiment is provided as an installable or executable file recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as an optical recording medium like a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), a USB memory, or a semiconductor memory device like an SSD (Solid State Disk). Alternatively, the program may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided or distributed by downloading it via the network. Furthermore, the program may be pre-installed in ROM or the like.

[0145] (Note) Based on the above description of embodiments, the following technologies are disclosed.

[0146] (Technical 1) An air conditioning system that air-conditions a space to be air-conditioned using an air conditioning device, comprising: a determination unit that determines a first set temperature to be set on the air conditioning device; a determination unit that determines whether or not a first user in the space to be air-conditioned, which is air-conditioned at the determined first set temperature, feels uncomfortable; and a processing unit that, if it is determined that the first user feels uncomfortable, executes processing according to the determination result. According to this, if a user in an air-conditioned space feels uncomfortable, processing will be performed according to the judgment result, thereby addressing the user's discomfort.

[0147] (Technical 2) The air conditioning system according to Technical 1, wherein the processing unit determines that the first user is feeling uncomfortable and changes the first set temperature to a second set temperature. According to this, if it is determined that the first user is feeling uncomfortable, the first set temperature can be changed to the second set temperature.

[0148] (Technical 3) The air conditioning system according to Technical 2, wherein the second set temperature is a set temperature set in advance by a second user, who is different from the first user. According to this, if a first user in the air-conditioned space feels uncomfortable, a second user, who is different from the first user, can change the temperature to a pre-set temperature.

[0149] (Technical 4) The air conditioning system according to Technical 3, wherein the processing unit determines that the first user is feeling uncomfortable, asks the second user whether or not to stop determining the first set temperature, and if the user decides to stop determining the first set temperature, it causes the processing unit to change to the second set temperature. According to this, the system can ask the second user whether or not to stop determining the first set temperature, and then allow the user to change to a previously set temperature.

[0150] (Technical 5) The air conditioning system according to Technical 1, wherein the processing unit determines that the first user is feeling uncomfortable, and the determination unit changes the criteria used to determine the first set temperature. According to this, by changing the criteria used to determine the first set temperature, it is possible to address situations where the user feels uncomfortable.

[0151] (Technical 6) The air conditioning system according to any one of Technical 1 to 5, wherein the determination unit determines whether the first user is feeling uncomfortable based on the frequency of the first user's instruction to change the first set temperature. According to this, if users frequently request changes to the set temperature, it can be determined that the user is experiencing discomfort.

[0152] (Technical 7) The air conditioning system according to any one of Technical 1 to 5, wherein the determination unit determines whether or not the first user feels uncomfortable based on the discomfort index of the air-conditioned space. According to this, it is possible to determine whether a user is feeling uncomfortable based on their discomfort index.

[0153] (Technical 8) An air conditioning system according to any one of Technical 1 to 5, further comprising a camera that takes pictures of the inside of the air-conditioned space, wherein the determination unit determines whether or not the first user is feeling uncomfortable based on a change in the first user's clothing detected from the image taken by the camera. According to this, it can be determined that a user is feeling uncomfortable when they take off their clothes or put on clothes.

[0154] (Technical 9) The air conditioning system according to Technical 1, wherein the determination unit determines the first set temperature based on the history of changes in the set temperature of the air conditioning device. According to this, the optimal first set temperature can be determined based on the history of changes to the set temperature of the air conditioning system.

[0155] (Technical 10) The air conditioning system according to Technical 1, wherein the determination unit determines the first set temperature based on the probability that the set temperature of the air conditioning device is changed. According to this, the optimal first set temperature can be determined based on the probability that the set temperature of the air conditioning system will be changed.

[0156] (Technical 11) An air conditioning system according to any one of Technical 1 to 10, further comprising a notification unit that notifies an external device of the operating status of the system, including the processing status of the determination unit and the processing unit. This allows you to check the operating status of the system, including the processing status of the decision unit and the processing unit.

[0157] (Technical 12) The air conditioning system according to Technical 11, wherein the notification unit notifies the external device of the learning status based on the actual changes in the settings of the air conditioning device. This allows us to check the learning progress based on actual changes made to the settings of the air conditioning system.

[0158] (Technical 13) A control method comprising: a computer determining a first set temperature as the set temperature to be set for an air conditioning device that air-conditions a space to be air-conditioned; determining whether a first user in the air-conditioned space air-conditioned at the determined first set temperature feels uncomfortable; and, if it is determined that the first user feels uncomfortable, executing a process according to the result of that determination. According to this, it will produce the same effect as the air conditioning system described in Technology 1.

[0159] (Technical 14) A program that causes a computer to determine a first set temperature as the set temperature to be set on an air conditioning device that air-conditions a space to be air-conditioned, to determine whether a first user in the air-conditioned space air-conditioned at the determined first set temperature feels uncomfortable, and, if it is determined that the first user feels uncomfortable, to execute a process according to the result of that determination. According to this, it will produce the same effect as the air conditioning system described in Technology 1. [Industrial applicability]

[0160] As described above, the air conditioning system, control method, and program according to the present invention can be used for determining the set temperature to be set in an air conditioning device. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0161] 1. Air conditioning system 2 Terminal devices 3. Management Server 4 Weather Server 5. Indoor Camera 11 Indoor unit 12 Outdoor unit 13 Remote control 14. Communication equipment 30 Server Control Units 31 Server communication device 300 server processors 301 Communication Control Unit 302 Acquisition Department 303 Update Department 304 Decision Section 305 Settings Section 306 Judgment section 307 Changes 310 Server Memory 311 Control Program 312 Management DB 1000 Air Conditioning Systems AD collected data H Facility MD Management Data NW Network P Administrator R Records S Air conditioned space RD operation data SD card configuration data

Claims

1. An air conditioning system that provides air conditioning to a space using an air conditioning device, The air conditioning system includes a determination unit that determines a first set temperature as the optimal set temperature to be set, A determination unit that determines whether or not a first user in the air-conditioned space, which is air-conditioned at the first set temperature determined, feels uncomfortable. The system includes a processing unit that, if it determines that the first user is feeling uncomfortable, executes processing according to the determination result, Air conditioning system.

2. If the processing unit determines that the first user is feeling uncomfortable, it will change the first set temperature to the second set temperature. The air conditioning system according to claim 1.

3. The second set temperature is a set temperature previously set by a second user, who is different from the first user. The air conditioning system according to claim 2.

4. If the processing unit determines that the first user is feeling uncomfortable, it will ask the second user whether or not to stop determining the first set temperature, and if the user decides to stop determining the first set temperature, it will change the temperature to the second set temperature. The air conditioning system according to claim 3.

5. If the processing unit determines that the first user is feeling uncomfortable, it changes the criteria used by the determination unit to determine the first set temperature. The air conditioning system according to claim 1.

6. The determination unit determines whether the first user is feeling uncomfortable based on the frequency of the first user's instruction to change the first set temperature. The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The determination unit determines whether the first user feels uncomfortable based on the discomfort index of the air-conditioned space. The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. The system further includes a camera unit for taking pictures of the inside of the air-conditioned space, The determination unit determines whether or not the first user is feeling uncomfortable based on the changes in the first user's clothing detected from the video footage captured by the camera unit. The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

9. The determination unit determines the first set temperature based on the history of changes in the set temperature of the air conditioner. The air conditioning system according to claim 1.

10. The determination unit determines the first set temperature based on the probability that the set temperature of the air conditioner will be changed. The air conditioning system according to claim 1.

11. The system further includes a notification unit that notifies an external device of the operating status of the system, including the processing status of the determination unit and the processing unit. The air conditioning system according to claim 1.

12. The notification unit notifies the external device of the learning status based on the actual changes in the settings of the air conditioning system. The air conditioning system according to claim 11.

13. Computers A first set temperature is determined as the set temperature to be set for the air conditioning system that provides air conditioning to the space to be air-conditioned. Determine whether the first user in the air-conditioned space, which is air-conditioned at the determined first set temperature, feels uncomfortable. If it is determined that the first user is feeling uncomfortable, the system will execute the process according to the determination result. Control method.

14. On the computer, A first set temperature is determined as the set temperature to be set for the air conditioning system that provides air conditioning to the space to be air-conditioned. Determine whether the first user in the air-conditioned space, which is air-conditioned at the determined first set temperature, feels uncomfortable. If it is determined that the first user is feeling uncomfortable, then the system will execute a process according to the determination result, or cause the system to execute a process. program.

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