Air conditioning system and control method

Abstract

Even when multiple air conditioners with different refrigerant systems are installed in a single space, the goal is to suppress an increase in the number of compressor starts and stops and to prevent a decrease in operating efficiency. [Solution] The air conditioning system comprises multiple air conditioners with different refrigerant systems and a management device that communicates with the multiple air conditioners via a network. The management device groups multiple air conditioners installed in the same air-conditioned space and operates or stops the grouped air conditioners individually at the same set temperature. The management device also starts operation only of the air conditioner with the largest individual temperature difference between its intake temperature and the set temperature among the grouped air conditioners. If it determines that the average temperature difference between the average intake temperature of the multiple air conditioners and the set temperature does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, it starts operation of the air conditioner that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] When the operation and stop of the compressor of an air conditioner are repeated, the power consumption increases with the start and stop of the compressor, and the operation efficiency decreases. Usually, since an air conditioner is selected to be able to satisfy the maximum required capacity, when the air conditioning load is small, such as in the intermediate seasons (for example, spring and autumn), the thermo-on and thermo-off are frequently repeated, and the number of start and stop times of the compressor may increase. In addition, in order to suppress the number of start and stop times of the compressor, a technique has been disclosed in which indoor units are not thermo-off simultaneously so that the compressor does not stop in an air conditioner in which a plurality of indoor units are connected to one outdoor unit (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, when a plurality of air conditioners having different refrigerant systems are installed in one space, since it has a different configuration from the conventional technology, it cannot be applied, and the number of start and stop times of the compressor may increase and the operation efficiency may decrease.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide an air conditioning system and a control method capable of suppressing an increase in the number of start and stop times of the compressor and suppressing a decrease in operation efficiency even when a plurality of air conditioners having different refrigerant systems are installed in one space.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure is an air conditioning system comprising a plurality of air conditioners with different refrigerant systems, and a management device that communicates with the plurality of air conditioners via a network, wherein the management device comprises a group setting unit for grouping the plurality of air conditioners installed in the same air-conditioned space, an operation control unit for individually operating or stopping the grouped plurality of air conditioners at the same set temperature, and a temperature difference detection unit for detecting the individual temperature difference between the intake temperature of each of the plurality of air conditioners and the set temperature, and the average temperature difference between the average intake temperature of each of the plurality of air conditioners and the set temperature, wherein the operation control unit controls the grouped plurality of air conditioners This air conditioning system starts only the air conditioner with the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners, and if it is determined that the average temperature difference does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, it starts the air conditioner that is stopped among the grouped air conditioners and has the largest individual temperature difference, and if it is determined that the average temperature difference does not fall within the first range within a predetermined time, it starts the air conditioner that is stopped among the grouped air conditioners and has the largest individual temperature difference, and this control is performed until the average temperature difference falls within the first range within a predetermined time, or until all of the grouped air conditioners are in operation.

[0007] Furthermore, one aspect of the present disclosure is a control method for an air conditioning system comprising a plurality of air conditioners with different refrigerant systems, and a management device that communicates with the plurality of air conditioners via a network, wherein the management device includes a group setting step of grouping the plurality of air conditioners installed in the same air-conditioned space, an operation control step of individually operating or stopping the grouped plurality of air conditioners at the same set temperature, an individual temperature difference detection step of detecting the individual temperature difference between the intake temperature of each of the plurality of air conditioners and the set temperature, and an average temperature difference detection step of detecting the average temperature difference between the average intake temperature of each of the plurality of air conditioners and the set temperature, wherein in the operation control step The control method involves starting operation only of the air conditioner with the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners, and if it is determined that the average temperature difference does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, starting operation of the air conditioner that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners, and if it is determined that the average temperature difference does not fall within the first range within a predetermined time, starting operation of the air conditioner that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners, and continuing this control until the average temperature difference falls within the first range within a predetermined time, or until all of the grouped air conditioners are in operation. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide an air conditioning system and control method that can suppress an increase in the number of compressor starts and stops and suppress a decrease in operating efficiency, even when multiple air conditioners with different refrigerant systems are installed in a single space. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] A system diagram showing an example configuration of an air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] A schematic block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an air conditioner according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] A diagram showing an example of the installation of an air conditioner managed by the control device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] A diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the management device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] A schematic block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the management device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] A flowchart showing an example of the operation control process for an air conditioner according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] A flowchart showing an example of the operation control process for an air conditioner according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 8] A flowchart showing an example of the operation control process for an air conditioner according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of air conditioner installation when managed as multiple groups according to Embodiment 4. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] [Embodiment 1] Embodiment 1 will be described below with reference to the drawings. (Air conditioning system configuration) First, the configuration of the air conditioning system according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a system diagram showing an example configuration of an air conditioning system according to this embodiment. The illustrated air conditioning system 1 is a system for managing air conditioners 100 installed in a facility. The air conditioning system 1 is composed of a plurality of air conditioners 100 installed in the facility, an adapter 150, and a control device 30.

[0011] Multiple air conditioners 100 are connected to a communication network NW via an adapter 150. The adapter 150 is a device that allows equipment such as air conditioners 100 to connect to the communication network NW. The communication network NW includes the internet, mobile phone networks, LANs (Local Area Networks), etc. For example, an air conditioner 100 includes an outdoor unit 10 and an indoor unit 20.

[0012] Figure 2 is a schematic block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the air conditioner 100 according to this embodiment. The outdoor unit 10 is composed of an outdoor fan 11, an outdoor fan motor 12 that drives the rotation of the outdoor fan 11, a compressor 13, an outdoor heat exchanger 14, a four-way valve 15, an expansion valve 16, an outdoor control unit 18, and the like. The indoor unit 20 is composed of an indoor fan 21, an indoor fan motor 22 that drives the rotation of the indoor fan 21, a temperature sensor 23, an indoor heat exchanger 24, an indoor control unit 28, a filter 29, and the like.

[0013] The outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20 are connected by refrigerant piping 5 through which the refrigerant flows. By switching the four-way valve 15 located inside the outdoor unit 10 to change the direction of refrigerant circulation, the system switches between heating and cooling operation.

[0014] During heating operation, the refrigerant, compressed into a gaseous state by the compressor 13, flows through the four-way valve 15 to the indoor unit heat exchanger 24. The refrigerant in the indoor unit heat exchanger 24 exchanges heat with the surrounding air, warming it. The refrigerant, now in a liquid state due to heat exchange, flows through the expansion valve 16 to the outdoor unit heat exchanger 14. The refrigerant in the outdoor unit heat exchanger 14 exchanges heat with the surrounding air. The refrigerant, now in a gaseous state due to heat exchange, returns to the compressor 13.

[0015] In the case of cooling operation, the gaseous refrigerant compressed by the compressor 13 flows into the outdoor unit heat exchanger 14 through the four-way valve 15. The refrigerant in the outdoor unit heat exchanger 14 exchanges heat with the surrounding air. The refrigerant that has become liquid state through heat exchange flows into the indoor unit heat exchanger 24 through the expansion valve 16. The refrigerant in the indoor unit heat exchanger 24 exchanges heat with the surrounding air to cool the surrounding air. The refrigerant that has become gaseous state through heat exchange returns to the compressor 13.

[0016] The outdoor unit control unit 18 controls each part provided in the outdoor unit 10. For example, the outdoor unit control unit 18 controls the outdoor unit fan motor 12 according to the air volume setting or the like. The indoor unit control unit 28 controls each part provided in the indoor unit 20. For example, the indoor unit control unit 28 controls the indoor unit fan motor 22 according to the air volume setting or the like. Further, in the indoor unit 20, a temperature sensor 23 and a filter 29 are provided in the middle of the air flow generated by the rotation of the indoor unit fan 21 (for example, the air flow sucked from the outside to the inside of the indoor unit 20). The temperature sensor 23 measures the temperature of the air (room temperature) sucked into the indoor unit 20. The filter 29 is a filter for removing dust, dirt, gas, etc. in the air.

[0017] Further, the outdoor unit control unit 18 and the indoor unit control unit 28 have a communication function, and are connected by a communication line for communication between the outdoor unit control unit 18 and the indoor unit control unit 28, and for communication with the adapter 150.

[0018] Returning to FIG. 1, the management device 30 is composed of one or a plurality of server devices connected via the communication network NW, and is configured as, for example, a cloud server. The management device 30 and the air conditioner 100 are connected via the adapter 150 by the communication network NW, and data can be transmitted and received via the communication network NW. For example, the management device 30 communicates with a plurality of air conditioners 100 installed in a facility (air-conditioned target space) and manages the control of the operation of each air conditioner 100.

[0019] Figure 3 shows an example of the installation of air conditioners managed by the control device according to this embodiment. Four air conditioners 100 are installed in the air-conditioned space SP1 (for example, one room) within the facility. Each air conditioner 100 is equipped with an outdoor unit 10 and an indoor unit 20, as shown in Figure 2, for example. In other words, four air conditioners 100 with different refrigerant systems are installed in this air-conditioned space SP1.

[0020] The control device 30 groups the four air conditioners 100 installed in the same air-conditioned space SP1 as one group, and operates or stops the four grouped air conditioners 100 individually at the same set temperature.

[0021] In this example, the four air conditioners 100 each have different refrigerant systems, but some of the four air conditioners 100 may share the same refrigerant system. For example, two or three of the four indoor units of the air conditioners 100 may be connected to a single outdoor unit 10. Alternatively, two air conditioners 100, each with two indoor units 20 connected to a single outdoor unit 10, may be installed.

[0022] In this way, the control device 30 groups multiple air conditioners 100 with different refrigerant systems installed in the same air-conditioned space SP1 and controls them to operate or stop individually at the same set temperature. The control device 30 can also control the operation of multiple air conditioners 100 with the same refrigerant system installed in the same air-conditioned space SP1, even if the configuration involves multiple indoor units 20 and one outdoor unit 10 connected to the same air-conditioned space SP1. Therefore, the configuration of the air conditioning system 1 according to this embodiment is more suitable when the control device 30 controls the operation of multiple air conditioners 100 with different refrigerant systems installed in the same air-conditioned space SP1.

[0023] (Configuration of the control device) The configuration of the control device 30 will be described in detail below. Figure 4 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the management device according to this embodiment. The management device 30 is, for example, a server device equipped with a computer.

[0024] The management device 30 comprises, as a hardware configuration, a communication unit 31, an input unit 32, an output unit 33, a processor 34, a memory 35, and a storage unit 36.

[0025] The communication unit 31 connects to a communication network NW via a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) or wired LAN and communicates with other devices. For example, the communication unit 31 connects to an adapter 150 via the communication network NW and communicates with multiple air conditioners 100.

[0026] The input unit 32 includes, for example, an input device such as a keyboard, touchpad, touch panel, or microphone. The output unit 33 includes a display unit such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display, and an output device such as a speaker.

[0027] The processor 34 is composed of components including a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and performs various processes by executing programs.

[0028] Memory 35 consists of RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), and other components.

[0029] RAM is used as a reading area for programs executed by the processor 34, or as a work area for writing data used for processing by said programs. ROM consists of electrically rewritable non-volatile memory such as EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) or flash ROM. For example, ROM stores at least a portion of system programs and programs that execute various processes.

[0030] The storage unit 36 ​​is a storage device that includes an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), and the like. For example, the storage unit 36 ​​stores system programs, at least a portion of programs that execute various processes, and data used in various processes.

[0031] Figure 5 is a schematic block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the management device 30 according to this embodiment. For example, the management device 30 includes a group setting unit 301, an operation control unit 302, a temperature difference detection unit 303, and a determination unit 304, as functional configurations realized by the processor 34 executing a program. The management device 30 also includes a storage unit 36 ​​that stores information acquired by each unit, information generated by each unit, and so on.

[0032] The group setting unit 301 groups together multiple air conditioners 100 installed in the facility and sets them as a group. The group setting may be input from a controller (not shown) provided by the air conditioner 100, or it may be input from a terminal device used by a user (e.g., the facility manager) (e.g., a personal computer, smartphone, etc.). For example, as shown in Figure 3, the group setting unit 301 groups together four air conditioners 100 installed in the same air-conditioned space SP1 as one group.

[0033] The grouped air conditioners 100 appear to the user as a single virtual air conditioner. This means that there is no need to operate each individual air conditioner 100, such as starting, stopping, changing the operating mode, or changing the set temperature; the grouped air conditioners 100 can be operated collectively from a controller (not shown).

[0034] The operation control unit 302 individually controls the operation and stopping of multiple air conditioners 100 connected to the management device 30 via a communication network NW. For example, the operation control unit 302 individually operates or stops a group of air conditioners 100 at the same set temperature.

[0035] The temperature difference detection unit 303 calculates the difference between the intake temperature of each air conditioner 100 (referred to as "individual intake temperature") and the set temperature (referred to as "individual temperature difference") based on operating data transmitted from multiple air conditioners 100 connected to the management device 30 via a communication network NW. Here, the intake temperature of the air conditioner 100 is the temperature of the air drawn into the indoor unit 20 of the air conditioner 100 (i.e., the room temperature), and is the temperature measured using the temperature sensor 23 mounted on the indoor unit 20. The temperature difference detection unit 303 calculates the value obtained by subtracting the "individual intake temperature" from the set temperature as the individual temperature difference.

[0036] Furthermore, the temperature difference detection unit 303 calculates the difference between the average intake temperature of the grouped air conditioners 100 (referred to as the "average intake temperature") and the set temperature set for the grouped air conditioners 100 (referred to as the "average temperature difference").

[0037] The determination unit 304 determines whether the average temperature difference calculated by the temperature difference detection unit 303 is within a predetermined range. For example, in cooling operation, the determination unit 304 calculates the average temperature difference by subtracting the average intake temperature from the set temperature. If the calculated average temperature difference is X°C or greater, it determines that it is within the predetermined range; if it is less than X°C, it determines that it is outside the predetermined range. In heating operation, the determination unit 304 calculates the average temperature difference by subtracting the average intake temperature from the set temperature. If the calculated average temperature difference is Y°C or less, it determines that it is within the predetermined range; if it is greater than Y°C, it determines that it is outside the predetermined range.

[0038] The values ​​of X and Y set as thresholds above will change depending on the conditions. Here, as an example, the first value of X will be set to "2", the second value of X to "-1", the first value of Y to "-1", and the second value of Y to "2". Furthermore, a predetermined range determined by the first value of X or the first value of Y will be set as the first predetermined range, and a predetermined range determined by the second value of X or the second value of Y will be set as the second predetermined range.

[0039] The operation control unit 302 controls the operation or stopping of a group of air conditioners 100 individually at the same set temperature, based on the detection result from the temperature difference detection unit 303 and the determination result from the determination unit 304.

[0040] For example, if the operation control unit 302 determines that the average temperature difference is within a predetermined first range while all of the grouped air conditioners 100 are operating, it stops all of the air conditioners 100 and controls them to the thermo-off state. Also, if the operation control unit 302 determines that the average temperature difference is outside a predetermined second range while all of the air conditioners 100 are stopped (thermo-off state), it starts operating only the air conditioner 100 with the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100.

[0041] Subsequently, if the operation control unit 302 determines that the average temperature difference will not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time while only the air conditioner 100 with the largest individual temperature difference is running, it starts the operation of the air conditioner 100 that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100.

[0042] Furthermore, if the operation control unit 302 determines that the average temperature difference does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, it repeatedly performs the control to start the operation of the air conditioner 100 that is stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100, until the average temperature difference falls within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, or until all of the grouped air conditioners 100 are in operation.

[0043] Furthermore, if the operation control unit 302 determines that the average temperature difference has fallen within a predetermined first range, it stops the air conditioner 100 that is currently operating among the grouped air conditioners 100 and controls it to the thermo-off state.

[0044] (Operation of the air conditioner's control system) Next, with reference to Figure 6, the operation of the control device 30's operation control of the air conditioner 100 during cooling operation will be described. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation control process of the air conditioner 100 according to this embodiment. Here, the set temperature during cooling operation is assumed to be 25°C.

[0045] (Step S101) When the grouped air conditioners 100 are stopped and then started by user operation or other means, the control device 30 puts all of the grouped air conditioners 100 into operation. Then proceed to step S102.

[0046] (Step S102) The control device 30 obtains the intake temperature (individual intake temperature) from each of the grouped air conditioners 100 and calculates the average intake temperature. The control device 30 uses the first value of X, "2", to determine whether the average temperature difference between the calculated average intake temperature and the set temperature (the value obtained by subtracting the average intake temperature from the set temperature) is within a predetermined first range. If the control device 30 determines that the average temperature difference is outside the predetermined first range (less than 2°C) (NO: average intake temperature is higher than 23°C), it continues to operate all of the grouped air conditioners 100 and repeats the process in step S102. On the other hand, if the control device 30 determines that the average temperature difference is within the predetermined first range (2°C or more) (YES: average intake temperature is 23°C or less), it proceeds to step S103 because operating the air conditioners 100 any further would cause the room temperature to drop too low relative to the set temperature.

[0047] (Step S103) The control device 30 stops the compressors 13 installed in the outdoor units 10 of all air conditioners 100 in the group and puts them in a thermo-off state. Then proceed to step S104.

[0048] (Step S104) The control device 30 obtains the intake temperature (individual intake temperature) from each of the grouped air conditioners 100 and calculates the average intake temperature. The control device 30 uses the second value of X, "-1", to determine whether the average temperature difference between the calculated average intake temperature and the set temperature (the value obtained by subtracting the average intake temperature from the set temperature) is outside a predetermined second range. If the control device 30 determines that the average temperature difference is within the predetermined second range (-1°C or more) (NO: average intake temperature is 26°C or less), it determines that the room temperature is not far from the set temperature and returns to step S103 to continue the thermo-off state. On the other hand, if the control device 30 determines that the average temperature difference is outside the predetermined second range (less than -1°C) (YES: average intake temperature is higher than 26°C), it determines that the room temperature is too high compared to the set temperature and proceeds to step S105.

[0049] (Step S105) The control device 30 obtains the intake temperature (individual intake temperature) from each of the grouped air conditioners 100. The control device 30 operates one air conditioner 100 in the group that is stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference between its individual intake temperature and the set temperature. If there are multiple air conditioners 100 that are stopped and have the largest individual temperature difference, the control device 30 operates any one of them. Then, the process proceeds to step S106.

[0050] (Step S106) The control device 30 obtains the intake temperature (individual intake temperature) from each of the grouped air conditioners 100 and calculates the average intake temperature. The control device 30 uses the first value of X, "2", to determine whether the average temperature difference between the calculated average intake temperature and the set temperature (the value obtained by subtracting the average intake temperature from the set temperature) is within a predetermined first range. If the control device 30 determines that the average temperature difference is within the predetermined first range (2°C or more) (YES: average intake temperature is 23°C or less), it proceeds to step S103, because if the air conditioner 100 is operated any further, the indoor temperature will drop too low compared to the set temperature. The control device 30 stops the compressor 13 mounted on the outdoor unit 10 of the air conditioner 100 that is in operation and puts it into a thermo-off state. On the other hand, if the control device 30 determines that the average temperature difference is outside the predetermined first range (less than 2°C) (NO: average intake temperature is higher than 23°C), it proceeds to step S107.

[0051] (Step S107) The control device 30 continues to operate for a predetermined time until the air conditioning (e.g., cooling) from the operation of the air conditioner 100 is reflected in the room temperature. Here, as an example of a predetermined time, the control device 30 continues to operate for 5 minutes. If the control device 30 determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed (NO), it continues to operate (Step S112) and returns to Step S106. On the other hand, if the control device 30 determines that the predetermined time has elapsed (YES), it proceeds to Step S110.

[0052] (Step S110) The control device 30 obtains the intake temperature (individual intake temperature) from each of the grouped air conditioners 100. The control device 30 then operates one air conditioner 100 within the group that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference between its individual intake temperature and the set temperature. If there are multiple air conditioners 100 that are stopped and have the largest individual temperature difference, the control device 30 operates any one of them. Then, the process proceeds to step S111.

[0053] (Step S111) The control device 30 determines whether all air conditioners 100 in the group are in operation. If there are air conditioners 100 that are not yet in operation (NO), the control device 30 continues the operation of the air conditioners 100 that are in operation (Step S112) and returns to Step S106. On the other hand, if all air conditioners 100 are in operation (YES), the control device 30 returns to Step S102.

[0054] In this way, the air conditioning system 1 can reduce the number of times the compressor 13 is started and stopped and suppress the power consumption of the air conditioners 100 by operating only the necessary air conditioners 100 out of the multiple air conditioners 100 installed in the facility.

[0055] As described above, the air conditioning system 1 according to this embodiment comprises a plurality of air conditioners 100 with different refrigerant systems, and a management device 30 that communicates with the plurality of air conditioners 100 via a communication network NW (an example of a network). The management device 30 groups the plurality of air conditioners 100 installed in the same air-conditioned space (for example, air-conditioned space SP1), and operates or stops the grouped plurality of air conditioners 100 individually at the same set temperature. The management device 30 also detects the individual temperature difference between the intake temperature of each of the plurality of air conditioners 100 (individual intake temperature) and the set temperature, and the average temperature difference between the average of the intake temperatures of the plurality of air conditioners (average intake temperature) and the set temperature.

[0056] The control device 30 then starts operation only of the air conditioner 100 with the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100. If it determines that the average temperature difference will not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, it starts operation of the air conditioner 100 that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100. Furthermore, if the control device 30 determines that the average temperature difference will not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, it starts operation of the air conditioner 100 that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100. This control is performed until the average temperature difference falls within the first range within a predetermined time, or until all of the grouped air conditioners 100 are in operation.

[0057] As a result, even when multiple air conditioners 100 with different refrigerant systems are installed in a single space, the air conditioning system 1 does not operate all of the air conditioners 100 simultaneously, but only the necessary air conditioners 100. This reduces the number of times the compressor 13 is started and stopped, thereby suppressing the power consumption of the air conditioners 100. Therefore, even when multiple air conditioners 100 with different refrigerant systems are installed in a single space, the air conditioning system 1 can suppress an increase in the number of times the compressor 13 is started and stopped, thereby suppressing a decrease in operating efficiency.

[0058] Furthermore, if the control device 30 determines that the average temperature difference has fallen within a predetermined first range, it stops the air conditioner 100 that is currently operating among the grouped air conditioners 100.

[0059] As a result, even when multiple air conditioners 100 with different refrigerant systems are installed in a single space, the air conditioning system 1 does not operate all of the air conditioners 100 at the same time, but only operates the necessary air conditioners 100, and when further air conditioning is no longer needed, it stops the operating air conditioners 100, thereby suppressing the power consumption of the air conditioners 100 and preventing a decrease in operating efficiency.

[0060] Furthermore, the control method for an air conditioning system 1 comprising multiple air conditioners 100 with different refrigerant systems and a management device 30 that communicates with the multiple air conditioners 100 via a communication network NW (an example of a network) includes a group setting step in which the management device 30 groups multiple air conditioners 100 installed in the same air-conditioned space (for example, air-conditioned space SP1); an operation control step in which the grouped multiple air conditioners 100 are individually operated or stopped at the same set temperature; an individual temperature difference detection step in which the individual temperature difference between the intake temperature (individual intake temperature) of each of the multiple air conditioners 100 and the set temperature is detected; and an average temperature difference detection step in which the average temperature difference between the average intake temperature (average intake temperature) of each of the multiple air conditioners and the set temperature is detected.

[0061] Furthermore, in the control method for the air conditioning system 1, the control device 30, in the operation control step described above, starts operation only of the air conditioner 100 with the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100, and if it determines that the average temperature difference does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, it starts operation of the air conditioner 100 that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100. In addition, in the control method for the air conditioning system 1, if the control device 30 determines that the average temperature difference does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, it starts operation of the air conditioner 100 that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100, and continues this control until the average temperature difference falls within the first range within a predetermined time, or until all of the grouped air conditioners 100 are in operation.

[0062] As a result, even when multiple air conditioners 100 with different refrigerant systems are installed in a single space, the control method in the air conditioning system 1 does not operate all of the air conditioners 100 simultaneously, but only the necessary air conditioners 100. This reduces the number of times the compressor 13 is started and stopped, thereby suppressing the power consumption of the air conditioners 100. Therefore, even when multiple air conditioners 100 with different refrigerant systems are installed in a single space, the control method in the air conditioning system 1 can suppress an increase in the number of times the compressor 13 is started and stopped, thereby suppressing a decrease in operating efficiency.

[0063] [Embodiment 2] Next, Embodiment 2 will be described. In the above-described embodiment 1, after starting only the air conditioner 100 with the largest individual temperature difference, if it was determined that the average temperature difference would not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, the operation of the next air conditioner 100 was started (steps S105 to S119 in Figure 6). In contrast, in this embodiment, even if the average temperature difference does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, if the room temperature is not significantly deviating from the set temperature, the operation of the next air conditioner 100 is not started, and only the currently operating air conditioner 100 continues to operate, thereby further reducing the number of times the compressor 13 is started and stopped.

[0064] The configuration of the air conditioning system 1 according to this embodiment is the same as the configuration described with reference to Figures 1 to 5, and its description will be omitted. In this embodiment, functions and processes that differ from those of Embodiment 1 will be described.

[0065] In the functional configuration of the control device 30 shown in Figure 5, the operation control unit 302 starts operation only of the air conditioner with the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100. If it determines that the average temperature difference does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, it further determines whether the average temperature difference is within a predetermined second range. If the operation control unit 302 determines that the average temperature difference is within the predetermined second range, it continues operation only of the air conditioner 100 that is currently running. On the other hand, if the operation control unit 302 determines that the average temperature difference is not within the predetermined second range, it starts operation of the air conditioner with the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100 that is currently stopped.

[0066] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation control process of the air conditioner 100 according to this embodiment. Referring to Figure 7, the operation control of the air conditioner 100 during cooling operation performed by the control device 30 according to this embodiment will be explained. In Figure 7, the same reference numerals are used for processes similar to those shown in Figure 6, and their explanations are omitted. Similarly, the set temperature during cooling operation is assumed to be 25°C.

[0067] The operation control process of the air conditioner 100 shown in Figure 7 differs from that in Figure 6 in that step S108A is added. In step S107, if the control device 30 determines that a predetermined time has elapsed (YES), it proceeds to step S108A.

[0068] (Step S108A) The control device 30 obtains the intake temperature (individual intake temperature) from each of the grouped air conditioners 100 and calculates the average intake temperature. The control device 30 determines whether the average temperature difference between the calculated average intake temperature and the set temperature (the value obtained by subtracting the average intake temperature from the set temperature) is within a predetermined second range, using the second value of X, "-1". If the control device 30 determines that the average temperature difference is within the predetermined second range (-1°C or more) (YES: average intake temperature is 26°C or less), it determines that the room temperature is not far from the set temperature, continues the operation of the air conditioner 100 that is in operation (Step S112), and returns to Step S106. On the other hand, if the control device 30 determines that the average temperature difference is outside the predetermined second range (less than -1°C) (NO: average intake temperature is higher than 26°C), the indoor temperature has risen too high compared to the set temperature, so the device proceeds to step S110 and starts operating the air conditioner 100 that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference.

[0069] As described above, in the air conditioning system 1 according to this embodiment, the control device 30 starts operation only of the air conditioner with the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100, and if it determines that the average temperature difference does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, it further determines whether the average temperature difference is within a predetermined second range. If the control device 30 determines that the average temperature difference is not within the predetermined second range, it starts operation of the air conditioner 100 that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100. On the other hand, if the control device 30 determines that the average temperature difference is within the predetermined second range, it continues the current operation.

[0070] As a result, the air conditioning system 1 starts operation only on the air conditioner with the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100. Even if the average temperature difference does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, if the average room temperature is not significantly deviating from the set temperature, it does not start operation on the next air conditioner 100, and continues to operate only the air conditioner 100 currently in operation. Therefore, the number of times the compressor 13 starts and stops can be further reduced compared to Embodiment 1. Thus, the control method in the air conditioning system 1 can suppress an increase in the number of times the compressor 13 starts and stops and suppress a decrease in operating efficiency, even when multiple air conditioners 100 with different refrigerant systems are installed in one space.

[0071] [Embodiment 3] Next, Embodiment 3 will be described. In the above-described embodiment 2, if the average temperature difference does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, but the average room temperature does not deviate significantly from the set temperature, the operation of the next air conditioner 100 is not started, and only the currently operating air conditioner 100 continues to operate. However, if the average temperature difference does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, but the temperature does not deviate significantly from the set temperature, it is possible that the room temperature can be maintained in a comfortable state, but there is a possibility that the temperature is high in some areas. Therefore, in this embodiment, the control device 30 adds a process to check whether the temperature is high in some areas.

[0072] In the functional configuration of the control device 30 shown in Figure 5, the operation control unit 302 starts operation only of the air conditioner 100 with the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100. If it determines that the average temperature difference does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, it further determines whether the average temperature difference is within a predetermined second range. If the operation control unit 302 determines that the average temperature difference is not within the predetermined second range, it further determines whether the maximum value of the individual temperature difference is within the predetermined second range to confirm whether there is a localized high temperature.

[0073] If the operation control unit 302 determines that the maximum value of the individual temperature difference is not within a predetermined second range, it determines that there is a locally high temperature and starts the operation of the air conditioner 100 that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100. On the other hand, if the operation control unit 302 determines that the maximum value of the individual temperature difference is within a predetermined second range, it determines that there is no locally high temperature and continues to operate only the air conditioner 100 that is currently running.

[0074] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation control process of the air conditioner 100 according to this embodiment. Referring to Figure 8, the operation control of the air conditioner 100 during cooling operation performed by the control device 30 according to this embodiment will be explained. In Figure 8, the same reference numerals are used for processes similar to those shown in Figure 7, and their explanations are omitted. Similarly, the set temperature during cooling operation is assumed to be 25°C.

[0075] The operation control process of the air conditioner 100 shown in Figure 8 differs from that in Figure 7 in that step S109B is added. In step S108A, if the control device 30 determines that the average temperature difference is within a predetermined second range (-1°C or higher) (YES: average intake temperature is 26°C or lower), it proceeds to step S109B to check whether the room temperature is not far from the set temperature but whether there are any locally high temperatures.

[0076] (Step S109B) The control device 30 obtains the intake temperature (individual intake temperature) from each of the grouped air conditioners 100. The control device 30 uses the second value of X, "-1", to determine whether the maximum value of the individual temperature difference (value obtained by subtracting the individual intake temperature from the set temperature) between the calculated individual intake temperature and the set temperature is within a predetermined second range. If the control device 30 determines that the maximum value of the individual temperature difference is within the predetermined second range (-1°C or more) (YES: individual intake temperature is 26°C or less), it determines that there are no locally high temperature areas and that the currently operating air conditioner 100 alone can maintain the room temperature close to the set temperature, and continues operating the currently operating air conditioner 100 (Step S112). Then, it returns to Step S106.

[0077] On the other hand, if the control device 30 determines that the maximum value of the individual temperature difference is outside the predetermined second range (less than -1°C) (NO: individual intake temperature is higher than 26°C), it proceeds to step S110 because there is a localized area with a high indoor temperature, and starts operating one air conditioner 100 that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference.

[0078] As described above, in the air conditioning system 1 according to this embodiment, the control device 30 starts operation only of the air conditioner with the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100. If it determines that the average temperature difference does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, it further determines whether the average temperature difference is within a predetermined second range. If it determines that the average temperature difference is not within the predetermined second range, it further determines whether the maximum value of the individual temperature difference is within the predetermined second range. If the control device 30 determines that the maximum value of the individual temperature difference is not within the predetermined second range, it starts operation of the air conditioner 100 that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners 100. On the other hand, if the control device 30 determines that the maximum value of the individual temperature difference is within the predetermined second range, it continues the current operation.

[0079] As a result, even if the average room temperature does not deviate significantly from the set temperature, if there are areas with locally higher temperatures, the air conditioning system 1 will only operate the air conditioner 100 corresponding to those areas. This reduces the number of times the compressor 13 starts and stops, thereby suppressing power consumption and maintaining air conditioning performance.

[0080] [Embodiment 4] Next, Embodiment 4 will be described. In the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiments 1 to 3, the control device 30 is shown in Figure 3 to group four air conditioners 100 installed in one air-conditioned space SP1 within the facility as one group, and to control the four grouped air conditioners 100 to operate or stop individually at the same set temperature. Here, the control device 30 can group multiple air conditioners 100 installed in multiple air-conditioned spaces SP1, and to control the multiple air conditioners 100 grouped in multiple groups to operate or stop individually at the same set temperature.

[0081] Figure 9 shows an example of the installation of air conditioners 100 when managed as multiple groups according to this embodiment. In the illustrated example, six air conditioners 100 are installed in the facility. The management device 30 groups the four air conditioners 100 installed in the air-conditioned space SP1 and sets them as Group 1. The management device 30 also groups the two air conditioners 100 installed in the air-conditioned space SP2 and sets them as Group 2.

[0082] The control device 30 can control the operation of the air conditioners 100 as described in Embodiments 1 to 3 for each group. In other words, the control device 30 can control the four air conditioners 100 in Group 1 and the two air conditioners 100 in Group 2, separately for each group.

[0083] Furthermore, the number of groups is not limited to one or two; three or more groups may be established.

[0084] In this way, the air conditioning system 1 can group the multiple air conditioners 100 installed in each of the multiple spaces to be air-conditioned according to the space to be air-conditioned, and control the operation of the air conditioners 100 as described in Embodiments 1 to 3 for each group. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in the number of starts and stops of the compressor 13 and suppress a decrease in operating efficiency for the multiple air conditioners 100 installed in the multiple spaces to be air-conditioned.

[0085] [Embodiment 5] Next, Embodiment 5 will be described. The control device 30 (operation control unit 302) may change the predetermined time in step S107 in Figures 6-8 based on the degree of change in the average temperature difference. For example, if the change in the average temperature difference is small and has not reached a predetermined first range, but is still steadily changing toward the set temperature, the operation control unit 302 may set the predetermined time in step S107 to be longer.

[0086] As a result, the air conditioning system 1 can extend the predetermined time for determining whether or not the average temperature difference has fallen within a predetermined first range, thereby preventing the operation of the next air conditioner 100 from starting while the average temperature difference is still in the process of falling within the predetermined first range, and thus reducing power consumption.

[0087] Although embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configurations are not limited to these embodiments, and the embodiments of this disclosure can be modified or omitted as appropriate.

[0088] In the above embodiment, the operation of the air conditioner 100's operation control was explained with reference to Figures 6-8, showing a specific example during cooling operation. However, by using the threshold Y used during heating operation as the threshold used when making a determination for a predetermined first range and second range, the operation control of the air conditioner 100 according to the above embodiment can also be applied during heating operation.

[0089] Furthermore, the values ​​of X and Y set as thresholds for determining whether or not a value falls within the predetermined range exemplified in the above embodiment are merely examples and can be set to any value.

[0090] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the determination was made based on the current average temperature difference, but the determination may also be made by predicting the average temperature difference several minutes in the future. For example, in the example shown in Figure 7, the control device 30 determines whether the average temperature difference is within a predetermined second range using the second value of X (step S108A), and if it determines that it is within the predetermined second range, it determines that the room temperature is not far from the set temperature and continues operating the air conditioner 100 that is currently running (step S112). In this process, the determination is made using the current average temperature difference and the second value of X, but the determination may also be made using the predicted value of the average temperature difference in the near future (e.g., 5 minutes later) and the second value of X. This may make it possible to further reduce the number of air conditioners 100 that need to be operated. As an example of a method for calculating the predicted value of the average temperature difference in the near future (e.g., 5 minutes later), a method of creating an approximation curve for the recent change in the average temperature difference and making a prediction may be adopted.

[0091] As mentioned above, the management device 30 has an internal computer system. The management device 30 may record programs for realizing the functions of each configuration on a computer-readable recording medium, load these programs into the computer system, and execute them to perform the processing required for each configuration of each server. Here, "loading and executing programs recorded on a recording medium into the computer system" includes installing the programs into the computer system. "Computer system" here includes hardware such as the operating system and peripheral devices. Furthermore, "computer system" may include multiple computer devices connected via a network including communication lines such as the Internet, WAN, LAN, and dedicated lines. "Computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into the computer system. Thus, the recording medium storing the programs may be a non-transient recording medium such as a CD-ROM.

[0092] Furthermore, the recording medium also includes internal or external recording media accessible from the distribution server for distributing the program. The program may be divided into multiple parts, downloaded at different times, and then combined in the configurations of each server in the system monitoring and control system 20, or each divided program may be distributed by a different distribution server. Additionally, "computer-readable recording media" includes volatile memory (RAM) within computer systems that act as servers or clients when a program is transmitted over a network, which retains the program for a certain period of time. Moreover, the program may be intended to implement only a portion of the functions described above. Furthermore, the program may be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can implement the functions described above in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

[0093] Furthermore, some or all of the functions of the management device 30 in the above-described embodiment may be implemented as an integrated circuit such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration). Each function may be individually processorized, or some or all of them may be integrated into a single processor. In addition, the method of implementing the integrated circuit is not limited to LSIs; it may also be implemented using dedicated circuits or general-purpose processors. Furthermore, if an integrated circuit technology that can replace LSIs emerges due to advances in semiconductor technology, an integrated circuit using that technology may be used. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0094] 1. Air conditioning system 10 Outdoor unit 11. Outdoor unit fan 12 Outdoor unit fan motor 13 Compressor 14 Outdoor unit heat exchanger 15. Four-way valve 16 Expansion valve 18 Outdoor unit control unit 20 Indoor unit 21 Indoor unit fan 22 Indoor unit fan motor 24 Indoor unit heat exchanger 28 Indoor Unit Control Unit 29 filters 30 Management device 31 Communications Department 32 Input section 33 Output section 34 processors 35 memory 36 Memory section 100 Air conditioners 150 adapter 300 Processing Unit 301 Group Setting Section 302 Operation Control Unit 303 Temperature difference detection unit 304 Judgment section

Claims

1. An air conditioning system comprising multiple air conditioners with different refrigerant systems, and a management device that communicates with the multiple air conditioners via a network, The aforementioned control device is A group setting unit for grouping multiple air conditioners installed in the same air-conditioned space, An operation control unit that operates or stops the grouped plurality of air conditioners individually at the same set temperature, A temperature difference detection unit that detects the individual temperature difference between the intake temperature of each of the multiple air conditioners and the set temperature, and the average temperature difference between the average intake temperature of each of the multiple air conditioners and the set temperature, Equipped with, The aforementioned operation control unit, The control is performed as follows: first, start operation only on the air conditioner with the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners; if it is determined that the average temperature difference does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, start operation on the air conditioner that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners; and if it is determined that the average temperature difference does not fall within the first range within a predetermined time, start operation on the air conditioner that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners. This control is performed until the average temperature difference falls within the first range within a predetermined time, or until all of the grouped air conditioners are in operation. Air conditioning system.

2. The aforementioned operation control unit, When it is determined that the average temperature difference has fallen within the first range, the air conditioner that is currently operating among the grouped plurality of air conditioners is stopped. The air conditioning system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned operation control unit, After starting operation only the air conditioner with the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners, if it is determined that the average temperature difference does not fall within the first range within a predetermined time, it is further determined whether the average temperature difference is within a predetermined second range. If it is determined that the average temperature difference is not within the second range, operation is started on the air conditioner that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners. If it is determined that the average temperature difference is within the second range, the current operation is continued. The air conditioning system according to claim 1.

4. The aforementioned operation control unit, If it is determined that the average temperature difference is not within the second range, it is further determined whether the maximum value of the individual temperature differences is within the second range. If it is determined that the maximum value of the individual temperature differences is not within the second range, the operation of the air conditioner that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners is started. If it is determined that the maximum value of the individual temperature differences is within the second range, the current operation is continued. The air conditioning system according to claim 3.

5. The aforementioned operation control unit, The predetermined time is changed based on the degree of change in the average temperature difference. An air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. A control method for an air conditioning system comprising multiple air conditioners with different refrigerant systems, and a management device that communicates with the multiple air conditioners via a network, The aforementioned control device A group setting step for grouping multiple air conditioners installed in the same air-conditioned space, An operation control step of individually operating or stopping the grouped plurality of air conditioners at the same set temperature, A step of detecting individual temperature differences between the intake temperature of each of the multiple air conditioners and the set temperature, An average temperature difference detection step that detects the average temperature difference between the average intake temperature of each of the multiple air conditioners and the set temperature, Includes, In the aforementioned operation control step, The control is performed as follows: first, start operation only on the air conditioner with the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners; if it is determined that the average temperature difference does not fall within a predetermined first range within a predetermined time, start operation on the air conditioner that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners; and if it is determined that the average temperature difference does not fall within the first range within a predetermined time, start operation on the air conditioner that is currently stopped and has the largest individual temperature difference among the grouped air conditioners. This control is performed until the average temperature difference falls within the first range within a predetermined time, or until all of the grouped air conditioners are in operation. Control method.

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