Air age measurement and output system and air age measurement and output method

Abstract

This system provides an air age measurement and output system that can determine the air age of each area within a room. [Solution] The system includes an air conditioning and ventilation means, a tracer particle generating means for diffusing tracer particles into the room 11, a plurality of tracer concentration measuring means for measuring the concentration of tracer particles in each area 12a to 12g within the room 11, a tracer concentration determination means for determining whether the concentration distribution of tracer particles within the room 11 is in a steady state, a numerical data measuring means for measuring numerical data of tracer particles in each area 12a to 12g when it is determined that the concentration distribution of tracer particles within the room 11 is in a steady state, an air age calculation means for calculating the air age of areas 12a to 12g based on the decay status of tracer particles in each area 12a to 12g over time since the start of measurement of numerical data of tracer particles, and an air age output means for outputting the calculated air age of each area 12a to 12g.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an air age measurement and output system and an air age measurement and output method for measuring the air age in a predetermined space and outputting the measured air age. [Background technology]

[0002] A stagnant air monitoring system is disclosed, comprising: an imaging unit that captures images including people and objects in a room; an estimation unit that estimates the location of stagnant air in the room based on information including the arrangement of people and objects in the room captured in the images; an execution unit that controls the air conditioning equipment in the room to perform a elimination operation to eliminate stagnant air; a first storage unit that stores information relating multiple arrangement patterns of people and objects in the room and the location of stagnant air corresponding to each arrangement pattern; and a second storage unit that stores information relating multiple arrangement patterns of people and objects in the room and the operation patterns of the air conditioning equipment corresponding to each arrangement pattern (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] The estimation unit estimates the location of stagnant air by reading from the first storage unit the location of occurrence corresponding to the same or similar arrangement pattern as the arrangement pattern shown in the image. If the estimation unit estimates stagnant air, the execution unit reads from the second storage unit an operation pattern corresponding to the same or similar arrangement pattern as the arrangement pattern shown in the image, and performs a elimination operation by controlling the operation of the air conditioning equipment based on the operation pattern read. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-98814 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] The stagnation monitoring system disclosed in Patent Document 1 estimates the location of stagnant air in a room by reading the location of occurrence from the first storage unit, corresponding to the same or similar arrangement pattern as the arrangement pattern shown in the image. However, it only estimates the location of stagnant air in a room and cannot calculate the actual air age of each area in the room. It cannot output the actual air age of each area, nor can it know the actual air age of each area. Because the stagnation monitoring system cannot know the air age of each area, it cannot determine whether the air ventilation in each area is good or bad. Furthermore, if the air age is short, it is evaluated that the time it takes for the supplied fresh air to reach the room is short. Conversely, if the air age is long, it is evaluated that the time it takes for the supplied fresh air to reach the room is long. The object of the present invention is to provide an air age measurement and output system and air age measurement and output method that can calculate the actual air age of each area in a room of a predetermined volume and output the calculated air age, thereby allowing the actual air age of each area to be known. Another object of the present invention is to provide an air age measurement and output system and air age measurement and output method that can determine whether the air ventilation in each area is good or bad by knowing the actual air age of each area. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The first premise of the present invention for solving the aforementioned problems is an air age measurement and output system that measures the air age of a room of a predetermined volume and outputs the measured air age of the room.

[0007] The first feature of the present invention in the first premise described above is that the air age measurement and output system comprises an air conditioning and ventilation means that exhausts air from a room and supplies air to the room, thereby generating airflow in the room; a tracer particle generating means arranged near an air supply port that supplies air to the room, which generates tracer particles in order to diffuse the tracer particles into the room; a plurality of tracer concentration measuring means arranged in multiple areas of the room, which measure the concentration of tracer particles diffused in those areas; and a state in which the concentration distribution of tracer particles in the room measured by the tracer concentration measuring means is in a steady state (a state in which the airflow, air quality, and state of tracer particles in various parts of the room remain constant over time). The system includes: a tracer concentration determination means for determining whether the tracer concentration distribution in the room is steady state; a numerical data measurement means for measuring numerical data of tracer particles in each area of ​​the room while stopping the generation of tracer particles by the tracer particle generation means and continuing the generation of airflow by the air conditioning / ventilation means when the tracer concentration determination means determines that the concentration distribution of tracer particles in the room is in a steady state; an air age calculation means for calculating the air age of each area based on the decay status of tracer particles in each area of ​​the room over time since the start of measurement of numerical data of tracer particles by the numerical data measurement means; and an air age output means for outputting the air age of each area calculated by the air age calculation means.

[0008] An example of the present invention having the first feature described above is an air conditioning and ventilation means that includes a circulation path for circulating air into a room, a filter for collecting tracer particles installed in the circulation path, and an air age measurement and output system that collects tracer particles contained in the air after numerical data of tracer particles has been measured by a numerical data measurement means using a filter, and supplies the air from which the tracer particles have been collected into the room.

[0009] Another example of the present invention having the first feature described above is an air conditioning and ventilation means comprising an air supply means having a plurality of air inlets for supplying air into a room, and an exhaust means for exhausting air from the room, thereby generating airflow in the room by supplying air into the room with the air supply means and exhausting air from the room with the exhaust means.

[0010] Another example of the present invention having the first feature described above is that the tracer particle generating means are repositionable and located near the air intake ports of the air supply means, and the ON / OFF switching of the tracer particle generating means is performed for each tracer particle generating means.

[0011] Another example of the present invention having the first feature described above is that the numerical data measuring means are arranged in a manner that allows them to be rearranged in each of the selected areas arbitrarily chosen from among a plurality of areas, and the ON / OFF of the numerical data measuring means is performed for each numerical data measuring means.

[0012] Another example of the present invention having the first feature described above is an air age output means that outputs the air age for each arbitrarily selected area.

[0013] As another example of the present invention having the first feature described above, the air age measurement and output system outputs the air age of each area in the room calculated by the air age calculation means using the air age output means, then continues to generate airflow in the room using the air conditioning and ventilation means and generates tracer particles in the room using the tracer particle generation means, and when the tracer concentration determination means determines again that the concentration distribution of tracer particles in the room is in a steady state, the generation of tracer particles by the tracer particle generation means is stopped and the generation of airflow by the air conditioning and ventilation means is continued, while numerical data of tracer particles in each area of ​​the room is measured by the numerical data measurement means, the air age calculation means calculates the air age of each area again, and the air age of each area calculated again by the air age calculation means is output by the air age output means, and the procedure is repeated.

[0014] A second premise of the present invention for solving the aforementioned problems is an air age measurement and output method that measures the air age of a room of a predetermined volume and outputs the measured air age of the room.

[0015] A second feature of the present invention in the second premise described above is that the air age measurement and output method comprises an air conditioning and ventilation step of exhausting air from a room and supplying air to the room to generate airflow in the room; a tracer particle generation step of generating tracer particles in order to diffuse tracer particles into the room, which is located near an air supply port for supplying air to the room; a plurality of tracer concentration measurement steps of measuring the concentration of tracer particles diffused in a plurality of areas of the room; a tracer concentration determination step of determining whether the concentration distribution of tracer particles in the room measured by the tracer concentration measurement step is in a steady state; and The system includes a numerical data measurement step, in which, when the tracer concentration determination step determines that the concentration distribution of tracer particles in the room is in a steady state, the generation of tracer particles by the tracer particle generation step is stopped, while the generation of airflow by the air conditioning / ventilation step is continued, and numerical data of tracer particles in each area of ​​the room is measured; an air age calculation step, in which the air age of each area is calculated based on the decay status of tracer particles in each area of ​​the room over time from the start of measurement of numerical data of tracer particles by the numerical data measurement step; and an air age output step, in which the air age of each area calculated by the air age calculation step is output.

[0016] An example of the present invention having the second characteristic described above is an air conditioning and ventilation process in which the air circulation path circulates air into the room, a filter for collecting tracer particles is installed in the circulation path, and the air age measurement and output method collects tracer particles contained in the air after the numerical data of tracer particles has been measured by the numerical data measurement process using a filter, and supplies the air from which the tracer particles have been collected into the room.

[0017] As another example of the present invention having the second feature, the air conditioning / ventilation step comprises an air supply step having a plurality of air supply ports for supplying air into a room, and an exhaust step for exhausting air from the room, wherein air is supplied into the room through the air supply step and air is exhausted from the room through the exhaust step, thereby generating an airflow in the room.

[0018] As another example of the present invention having the second feature, said tracer fine particle generation steps are arrangeably disposed in the vicinity including said air supply ports of the air supply step, and ON / OFF of said tracer fine particle generation steps is performed for each of the tracer fine particle generation steps.

[0019] As another example of the present invention having the second feature, said numerical data measurement steps are arrangeably disposed in each arbitrarily selected area selected from among a plurality of areas, and ON / OFF of said numerical data measurement steps is performed for each of the numerical data measurement steps.

[0020] As another example of the present invention having the second feature, the air age output step outputs the air age for each arbitrarily selected area.

[0021] As another example of the present invention having the second feature, in the air age measurement and output method, after the air age of each area in the room calculated by the air age calculation step is output by the air age output step, an airflow is generated in the room by the air conditioning / ventilation step and tracer fine particles are generated into the room by the tracer fine particle generation step; when the tracer concentration determination step determines again that the concentration distribution of the tracer fine particles in the room is in a steady state, the generation of tracer fine particles by the tracer fine particle generation step is stopped, and while continuing the generation of airflow by the air conditioning / ventilation step, numerical data of the tracer fine particles in each area of the room is measured by the numerical data measurement step, the air age of each area is calculated again by the air age calculation step, and the procedure of outputting the air age of each area recalculated by the air age calculation step through the air age output step is repeated. Effects of the Invention

[0022] According to the air age measurement and output system and air age measurement and output method of the present invention, after the concentration distribution of tracer particles in a room reaches a steady state, the generation of tracer particles is stopped while the generation of airflow continues, and numerical data of tracer particles in each area of ​​the room is measured. Based on the decay status of the numerical data of tracer particles over time after the measured numerical data of tracer particles reaches a steady state, the air age of each area can be calculated. Thus, the actual air age of each area in a room of a predetermined volume can be calculated, and the calculated air age of each area is output, so the actual air age of each area can be known. The air age measurement and output system and air age measurement and output method allows you to know whether the ventilation of each area is good or bad because you know the actual air age of each area.

[0023] The air age measurement and output system and method include a circulation path for circulating air into a room, with a filter installed in the circulation path to collect tracer particles. Tracer particles contained in the air after numerical data of tracer particles have been measured are collected by the filter, and the air from which the tracer particles have been collected is supplied to the room. As a result, the concentration of tracer particles in the room can be reduced to 0 by the filter. Tracer particles are then generated again in the room to diffuse them, and numerical data of tracer particles is measured in each area of ​​the room. The air age of each area can be calculated from the decay status of the measured numerical data of tracer particles over time, making it possible to calculate the air age multiple times in a time series and to know the actual air age of each area in a time series. The air age measurement and output system and method can calculate the actual air age of each area after the environment has changed, even if the environment of each area in the room has changed over time, and to know the actual air age of each area after the environment has changed.

[0024] The air age measurement and output system and method generate airflow in a room by supplying air to the room and exhausting air from the room. By reliably generating airflow in the room and measuring numerical data of tracer particles in each area of ​​the room, the numerical data of tracer particles in each area gradually decreases due to the generation of airflow. Based on the rate of decrease of the measured numerical data of tracer particles over time, the air age of each area can be reliably calculated, and the actual air age of each area can be determined.

[0025] The air age measurement and output system and air age measurement and output method allow the tracer particle generating means (the tracer particle generating process) to be repositionably located near the air intakes, including the air intakes, and the ON / OFF switching of each tracer particle generating means (each tracer particle generating process) is performed individually. Therefore, the tracer particle generating means (the tracer particle generating process) can be appropriately positioned near any selected air intake, including the air intake, according to the environment and operating conditions such as the room volume, room layout, room layout (location of chairs, desks, various electronic devices, bookshelves, partitions, etc.), operating conditions of the heating and cooling system, and the flow of people in the room. Furthermore, the ON / OFF switching of each tracer particle generating means (the tracer particle generating process) can be individually selected, enabling accurate calculation of the air age in each area of ​​the room, which varies depending on the environment and operating conditions, and allowing accurate determination of the air age in each area of ​​the room, which varies depending on the environment and operating conditions.

[0026] The air age measurement and output system and air age measurement and output method allow the numerical data measurement means (numerical data measurement processes) to be reconfigurable to be placed in each of the multiple areas that can be arbitrarily selected, and the ON / OFF of the numerical data measurement means (numerical data measurement processes) is performed for each numerical data measurement means (numerical data measurement process). Therefore, the numerical data measurement means (numerical data measurement processes) can be accurately placed in each of the multiple areas that can be arbitrarily selected according to the environment and operating conditions such as the volume of the room, the room layout, the room layout (position of chairs, desks, various electronic devices, bookshelves, partitions etc. placed in the room), the operating conditions of the heating and cooling system, and the flow of people in the room. Furthermore, the ON / OFF of the numerical data measurement means (numerical data measurement processes) can be individually selected, allowing for the accurate calculation of the air age of each area in the room, which differs depending on the environment and operating conditions, and enabling the accurate determination of the air age of each area in the room, which differs depending on the environment and operating conditions.

[0027] The air age measurement and output system and method output the air age for each arbitrarily selected area. This allows you to know the air age of an arbitrarily selected area based on environmental and operating conditions such as room volume, room layout, room layout (position of chairs, desks, various electronic devices, bookshelves, partitions, etc.), operating conditions of heating and cooling systems, and people's movement within the room. This allows you to know the actual air age of the area you want to know the air age for. Because the air age measurement and output system and method reveal the actual air age of the area you want to know the air age for, you can determine whether the ventilation in that area is good or bad.

[0028] The air age measurement and output system and method output the calculated air age for each area in the room, then generates airflow in the room and generates tracer particles. When it is determined that the concentration distribution of tracer particles in the room is in a steady state, the generation of tracer particles is stopped, while the generation of airflow continues, and numerical data of tracer particles in each area of ​​the room is measured. The air age for each area is then recalculated, and the recalculated air age for each area is output. This procedure is repeated, allowing the actual air age of each area in the room to be determined again after changes in the environment and operating conditions, and enabling the detection of poor or poor ventilation in each area after changes in the environment and operating conditions. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0029] [Figure 1] A diagram illustrating an example of an air age measurement and output system in a room. [Figure 2] A diagram illustrating the operation of air conditioning and ventilation in an air age measurement and output system (air age measurement and output method). [Figure 3] A diagram illustrating the tracer particle generation operation in an air age measurement and output system (air age measurement and output method). [Figure 4] A diagram illustrating the concentration decay method (step-down method), a technique for measuring air age. [Figure 5] A diagram showing an example of air age in a predetermined area of ​​a room, as output (displayed) on a display. [Figure 6] A flowchart illustrating each step performed by the air age measurement and output method. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0030] Referring to the attached drawings, the details of the air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method according to the present invention are as follows. Figure 1 is a configuration diagram showing an example of the air age measurement and output system 10 in room 11.

[0031] The air age measurement and output system 10 (air age measurement and output method) uses tracer particles (tracers) to measure the air age of the air in each area 12a to 12g of a predetermined room 11 (space), and outputs the measured air age of each area 12a to 12g. Each area 12a to 12g is arbitrarily set according to the environment and operating conditions such as the volume of the room 11, the layout of the room 11, the location of chairs, desks, various electronic devices, bookshelves, partitions, etc. placed in the room 11, the operating conditions of the heating and cooling system, and the movement of people in the room 11. Tracer particles refer to, for example, water droplets generated from humidifiers or nozzles and solid particles remaining after those water droplets evaporate in the air, mixed water droplets of oil and water such as simulated droplets, and solid particles such as dust and soil.

[0032] The air age measurement and output system 10 in room 11 of Figure 1 includes air conditioning and ventilation means, tracer particle generation means, tracer concentration measurement means, tracer concentration determination means, numerical data measurement means, air age calculation means, and air age output means. The air age measurement and output method performs the following steps: air conditioning and ventilation process, tracer particle generation process, tracer concentration measurement process, tracer concentration determination process, numerical data measurement process, air age calculation process, and air age output process. The air age measurement and output system 10 (air age measurement and output method) is controlled by a controller (not shown).

[0033] The controller is a physical computer that has a central processing unit (CPU or MPU) and memory (main memory and cache memory), operates with an independent operating system (OS), and has a large-capacity hard disk. A display 13 (output device) and input / output devices such as a touch panel, keyboard, and mouse (not shown) are connected to the controller via an interface (wireless or wired). The controller's memory stores applications that perform the air age measurement and output operation (operation) of the air age measurement and output system 10 (air age measurement and output method).

[0034] Although Figure 1 shows a single display 13, multiple displays 13 are connected to the controller via signal lines (wireless or wired) through the master unit 14. Tablets and smartphones can also be used as output devices. The central processing unit of the controller launches applications stored in memory based on control by the operating system (OS) and performs air age measurement and output operation according to those applications.

[0035] Cloud computing can also be used as a controller. Cloud services include Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). By using the cloud, IT resources can be accessed on demand via the internet from a cloud service platform. A cloud is a virtual computer that operates with an independent operating system (virtual OS) and has a virtual CPU or virtual MPU (central processing unit), virtual main memory, and virtual cache memory (virtual memory), creating a large-capacity virtual storage area.

[0036] The controller's memory contains an application for calculating the air age. The air age is calculated using the following existing formula, which is based on the concentration decay method (step-down method). An example of the air age calculation formula is as follows:

[0037] Formula for calculating air age:

[0038]

number

[0039] The air age measurement and output system 10 includes an air supply mechanism 15 (air supply path) for supplying air into the room 11, and an exhaust and return air mechanism 16 (exhaust and return air path) for exhausting and returning the air in the room 11. The air supply mechanism 15 and the exhaust and return air mechanism 16 are connected to the air conditioner 17. In the air age measurement and output system 10, air is supplied into the room 11 by the air supply mechanism 15 (air supply means (air supply process)), and air is exhausted and returned from the room 11 by the exhaust and return air mechanism 16 (exhaust and return air means (exhaust and return air process)), thereby generating airflow in the room 11.

[0040] The air supply mechanism 15 includes an air supply duct 18 located downstream of the air conditioner 17, a plurality of air supply dampers 19 (motor dampers) installed in the air supply duct 18, and a plurality of air supply ports 20 connected to the air supply duct 18. The exhaust / return air mechanism 16 includes an outside air duct 21 located upstream of the air conditioner 17, an exhaust duct 22 located upstream of the air conditioner 17, a return air duct 23a and an exhaust / return air duct 23b located upstream of the air conditioner 17, a plurality of exhaust / return air dampers 24 (motor dampers) installed in the exhaust / return air duct 23b, and a plurality of exhaust / return air ports 25 connected to the exhaust / return air duct 23b.

[0041] The air conditioner 17 is installed in the ceiling space of the room 11. The air conditioner 17 has an air supply fan 26, a coil 34, and a filter 27. The control unit of the air conditioner 17 is connected to a controller via a signal line (wired or wireless), and its ON / OFF (start / stop) and output are controlled by the controller. The air conditioner 17 removes impurities (dust, bacteria, viruses, etc.) contained in the air in the room 11 using the filter 27 (e.g., a HEPA filter) to make it clean air, and also captures tracer particles contained in the air in the room 11. The air conditioner 17 generates an airflow in the room 11 by supplying a predetermined amount of air from multiple air supply ports 20 (multiple air control ports), creating an airflow from air flowing in one direction.

[0042] One end of the supply air duct 18 is connected to the air conditioner 17. The supply air duct 18 supplies air from the air conditioner 17 into the room 11. The supply air duct 18 branches into multiple sections toward the room 11, and the other ends of these branched supply air ducts 18 are connected to each air inlet 20. These supply air ducts 18 supply air to each area 12a to 12g within the room 11.

[0043] These air supply dampers 19 (motor dampers) are installed in the branched air supply ducts 18. The air supply openings 20 are mounted on the ceiling of the room 11.

[0044] The outside air duct 21 takes in outside air from outside the room 11 and supplies it to the air conditioner 17. One end of the outside air duct 21 is connected to the outside air intake, and the other end is connected to the air conditioner 17. An outside air fan 29 is installed on one end of the outside air duct 21. The control unit of the outside air fan 29 is connected to a controller via a signal line, and its ON / OFF (start / stop) is controlled by the controller. Through the outside air duct 21, a constant amount of outside air is supplied to the air conditioner 17 by the outside air fan 29.

[0045] The return air duct 23a returns the air from room 11 supplied by the exhaust / return air duct 23b to the air conditioner 17. The exhaust duct 22 exhausts a portion of the air from room 11 supplied by the exhaust / return air duct 23b to the outside of room 11. One end of the exhaust duct 22 is connected to an exhaust port, and the other end is connected to the exhaust / return air duct 23b. An exhaust fan 30 is installed on one end of the exhaust duct 22. The control unit of the exhaust fan 30 is connected to a controller via a signal line, and its starting and stopping are controlled by the controller. In the exhaust duct 22, a predetermined amount of indoor air is exhausted to the outside of room 11 by the exhaust fan 30.

[0046] The return air duct 23a has one end connected to the exhaust / return air duct 23b and the other end connected to the air conditioner 17. The exhaust / return air duct 23b takes in air from each area 12a to 12g in the room 11 and flows that air into the return air duct 23a, while also allowing a portion of that air to flow into the exhaust duct 22. The exhaust / return air duct 23b branches into multiple sections toward the room 11, and the other ends of these branched exhaust / return air ducts 23b are connected to each exhaust / return air vent 25. These exhaust / return air vents 25 are installed on the ceiling of the room 11.

[0047] These exhaust / return air dampers 24 (motor dampers) are installed in the branched exhaust / return air ducts 23b. During air conditioning and ventilation operation of the air into room 11, the opening degree of all the exhaust / return air dampers 24 becomes the same and is maintained at a constant opening degree. In the air age measurement and output system 10, the return air duct 23a, exhaust / return air duct 23b, exhaust duct 22, air conditioner 17, and supply air duct 18 form a circulation path that circulates the air in room 11, and the air is circulated into room 11 using this circulation path.

[0048] Each air intake port 20 is equipped with a tracer particle generator 31 (tracer particle generating means (tracer particle generating process)). These tracer particle generators 31 may also be installed near each air intake port 20. These tracer particle generators 31 diffuse minute tracer particles 32 into a chamber 11 (space) of a predetermined volume. These tracer particle generators 31 (tracer particle generating means (tracer particle generating process)) are arranged in a manner that allows for repositioning within or near the air intake ports 20.

[0049] In these tracer microparticle generators 31 (tracer microparticle generating means (tracer microparticle generating process)), the amount of liquid required for generating tracer microparticles and the operation of generating microparticles are performed synchronously, so all ON / OFF (start / stop) operations are performed simultaneously.

[0050] These tracer particle generators 31 utilize an ultrasonic humidifier 31. The ultrasonic humidifier 31 generates ultrasonic waves (vibrations) using an ultrasonic transducer installed at the bottom of the tank. These vibrations burst on the surface of the water contained in the tank, creating tiny tracer particles 32 (mist). These finely divided tracer particles 32 are then diffused into the air (inside the room 11) using the physical phenomenon of concentration diffusion. The control unit of the ultrasonic humidifier 31 is connected to a controller via a signal line (wired or wireless), and its ON / OFF (start / stop) and output are controlled by the controller.

[0051] As tracer particle generators 31, in addition to ultrasonic humidifiers 31 that generate minute tracer particles 32 in the room temperature range without using a special heat source, other types of humidifiers that can be used include steam-type (heating-type) humidifiers that heat water with a heater to evaporate it and then use a fan to diffuse the water vapor into the air (inside the room 11), hybrid humidifiers that combine the steam-type and ultrasonic-type humidifiers, heated evaporative humidifiers that pass warm air made by a heater and fan through a water-soaked filter to vaporize the water and diffuse the water vapor into the air (inside the room 11), and evaporative humidifiers that pass air made by a fan through a water-soaked filter to evaporate the water and diffuse the water vapor into the air (inside the room 11).

[0052] Each ultrasonic humidifier 31 (or tracer particle generator 31) is assigned a humidifier identification number (humidifier identifier), which is stored on the controller's hard disk. The humidifier identification number (humidifier identifier) ​​can be the individual identification number or model number of each ultrasonic humidifier 31, or the controller can generate a unique identifier for each ultrasonic humidifier 31, and this generated identifier can be used as the humidifier identification number.

[0053] The tracer particles 32 used in ultrasonic humidifiers 31, steam humidifiers, hybrid humidifiers, and evaporative humidifiers are made from tap water that is compatible with humans (in some cases, PAO used for filter testing may be used). The tanks of these ultrasonic humidifiers 31 are supplied with tap water.

[0054] The air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method utilize an ultrasonic humidifier 31 or another humidifier as the tracer particle generator 31. By installing the humidifier 31 near the air intake 20, including the air intake 20, minute tracer particles 32 can be easily diffused to each area 12a to 12g of the room 11 using the humidifier 31. The air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method use tap water as the water for the ultrasonic humidifier 31 or other humidifier, so there is no need to prepare a special aqueous solution. Tap water can be supplied to the humidifier 31 from the water pipe, thus simplifying and reducing the cost of the air age measurement and output system 10.

[0055] Tracer concentration measuring devices 33 are installed in each area 12a to 12g of the room. These tracer concentration measuring devices 33 measure numerical data (number data or concentration data) of tracer fine particles 32 diffused in each area 12a to 12g of the room 11. The tracer concentration measuring devices 33 use a light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a (fine particle measuring instrument) that has a measurement range that includes the particle size of tracer fine particles 32 diffused in each area 12a to 12g of the room 11 by an ultrasonic humidifier 31 or other humidifier. Alternatively, the tracer concentration measuring devices 33 use a PM2.5 measuring instrument 33b that has a measurement range that includes the particle size of tracer fine particles 32 diffused in each area 12a to 12g of the room 11 by an ultrasonic humidifier 31 or other humidifier.

[0056] In the tracer concentration measuring device 33, minute tracer particles 32 are diffused into each area 12a to 12g in the room 11 by the tracer particle generator 31 (ultrasonic humidifier 31 or other humidifier). When the tracer concentration measuring device 33 (light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or PM2.5 measuring device 33b) determines that the concentration distribution of tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g in the room 11 is in a steady state, the tracer particle generator 31 (ultrasonic humidifier 31 or other humidifier) ​​is stopped and numerical data (number data or concentration data) of the tracer particles 32 is measured during a predetermined measurement time.

[0057] The light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a takes in air from each area 12a to 12g within the chamber 11 through an inlet nozzle and irradiates the taken-in air with laser light. When the laser light strikes the tracer particles 32 contained in the air (suspended in space), the light is scattered. This scattered light is detected by a photodiode and converted into an electrical signal to measure the number of tracer particles 32 (particle count data). The particle size is determined from the voltage, and the number of tracer particles 32 in the air of each area 12a to 12g within the chamber 11 (particles / m³) is determined from the number of waveforms. 3 Measure the tracer concentration.

[0058] In addition to the light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a, a light-blocking type particle counter can also be used. In the light-blocking type particle counter, a light source and a photodetector are placed facing each other, and the light is converted into an electrical signal. When tracer particles 32 contained in the air (suspended in space) in each area 12a to 12g within the room 11 pass through this light, the light received by the photodetector weakens. The amount of attenuation of the electrical signal becomes the particle size of the tracer particles 32, and the number of times the light is blocked becomes the tracer particle count data (particles / m³). 3 )

[0059] The PM2.5 measuring device 33b uses an automated PM2.5 measuring system. The automated PM2.5 measuring system employs a light scattering method, which calculates the gravimetric concentration using the intensity of light scattering when light is irradiated onto the classified tracer particles 32, which are then classified using an impactor. Alternatively, as a combined method, the gravimetric concentration (tracer concentration) of PM2.5 is calculated by the b-ray absorption method, in which the classified tracer particles 32 are collected on paper a, and the gravimetric concentration is calculated from the amount of b-ray transmission when b-ray is irradiated onto the collected tracer particles 32.

[0060] In the impactor, tracer particles 32 drawn in from the outside are classified with a collection efficiency of 50% by four selected types of impactors (PM1, PM2.5, PM4, PM10). After classification, one-third of the tracer particles 32 that enter the device from the intake port are used as sheath air through a filter, and the remaining tracer particles 32 are sent to the detector. The sheath air enters the detector in a manner that surrounds the air containing the tracer particles 32 to be measured. The detector is protected by the sheath air, ensuring stable accuracy.

[0061] Tracer particles 32 that enter the detector pass through the laser, and the scattered light is detected by the photodetector. The scattered light intensity depends on the particle concentration, particle size distribution, refractive index, shape, etc. The signal from the photodetector is instantly converted into weight concentration and then stored (stored) in the internal logger. After detection, the tracer particles 32 are collected in a gravimetric filter and used for measuring their weight and composition. Calibration coefficients are used to bring the measurement results closer to more accurate values.

[0062] The light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or PM2.5 measuring instrument 33b is housed in a casing and is portable. The control unit of the light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or PM2.5 measuring instrument 33b is connected to a controller via a signal line, and its ON / OFF (start / stop) is controlled by the controller. In Figure 1, multiple light scattering type airborne particle counters 33a or multiple PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b are installed inside the room 11.

[0063] Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on the number or location of the light scattering type airborne particle counters 33a or PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b installed in Room 11. The number and location of the installed units are determined by the environment and operating conditions, such as the volume of Room 11, the layout of Room 11, the placement of chairs, desks, various electronic devices, bookshelves, partitions, etc., within Room 11, the operating conditions of the heating and cooling system, and the flow of people within Room 11. In the air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method, a predetermined light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or PM2.5 measuring device 33b (tracer concentration measuring device 33) is installed in areas 12a to 12g within Room 11 that do not interfere with other light scattering type airborne particle counters 33a or PM2.5 measuring devices 33b.

[0064] The air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method are designed so that the light-scattering airborne particle counters 33a or PM2.5 measuring instruments 33b (tracer concentration measuring devices 33) installed in each area 12a to 12g are positioned so as not to interfere with each other. Therefore, a given light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a or PM2.5 measuring instrument 33b is not affected by other light-scattering airborne particle counters 33a or PM2.5 measuring instruments 33b, and numerical data (number data or concentration data) of tracer fine particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g can be accurately measured.

[0065] A hard disk of a controller (computer) stores a room-specific identification number (room-specific identifier) for a room 11 (space), and area-specific identification numbers (area-specific identifiers) for identifying each of areas 12a to 12g. The hard disk of the controller stores the volume of the room 11 in m 3 , the supply air volume of air supplied to the room 11 in m 3 / s, the exhaust air volume of air discharged from the room 11 in m 3 / s, steady constant numerical data (steady count data or steady concentration data) of tracer fine particles 32 in the room 11, and a set time "t0" required for the tracer fine particles 32 generated by the installed number of ultrasonic humidifiers 15 to diffuse throughout the entire room 11, all of which are stored in a state associated with the room-specific identification number.

[0066] The hard disk of the controller stores the amount of liquid required for generating tracer fine particles 32 generated from one ultrasonic humidifier 31 or another humidifier in m 3 / s, the number of installed units and humidifier identification numbers of the ultrasonic humidifier 33 installed in the room 11 or other humidifiers, and the number of installed units and measuring instrument identification numbers of the light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a or the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b installed in the room 11, all of which are stored in a state associated with the room-specific identification number of the room 11.

[0067] For the humidifier identification number (humidifier identifier), the individual identification number or model number of each ultrasonic humidifier 31 or each other humidifier is used; alternatively, the controller may generate a unique humidifier identifier for each ultrasonic humidifier 31 or each other humidifier, and use the generated identifier as the humidifier identification number. For the measuring instrument identification number (measuring instrument identifier), the individual identification number or model number of each light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a or each PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b is used; alternatively, the controller may generate a unique measuring instrument identifier for each light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a or each PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b, and use the generated identifier as the measuring instrument identification number.

[0068] The volume of room 11, the air supply volume to room 11, the exhaust volume of air from room 11, the amount of liquid required to generate tracer particles 32 from the ultrasonic humidifier 31 or other humidifier, the number of ultrasonic humidifiers 31 or other humidifiers installed, the number of light scattering type airborne particle counters 33a or PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b installed, steady-state numerical data of tracer particles (steady-state number data or steady-state concentration data), and the set time "t0" until the tracer particles 32 diffuse throughout the entire room 11 can be input to the controller using an input device such as a touch panel, keyboard, or mouse, and these can be changed as appropriate.

[0069] Figure 2 illustrates the air conditioning and ventilation operation in the air age measurement and output system 10 (air age measurement and output method), and Figure 3 illustrates the tracer particle generation operation in the air age measurement and output system 10 (air age measurement and output method). Figure 4 illustrates the concentration decay method (step-down method), which is an air age measurement technique, and Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the air age in predetermined areas 12a to 12g within room 11, as output (displayed) on the display. Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating each process carried out by the air age measurement and output method. In this embodiment, the concentration decay method (step-down method) is used as an example of the air age measurement technique, but the present invention can be implemented with any existing air age measurement technique, and can be applied to, for example, the step-up method or the pulse method.

[0070] The controller's startup screen (not shown) displayed on display 13 shows an icon indicating the air age measurement / output system 10 (air age calculation). Clicking (tapping) this icon launches the application that performs the air age measurement / output operation, and the condition setting screen (not shown) for the air age measurement / output system 10 is displayed on display 13. The condition setting screen displays a measurement start button, a room sample image creation button, a numerical input button, and a cancel button. Clicking (tapping) the cancel button closes the application (the same applies to the following cancel button). If a room sample image has already been created and the numerical values ​​have been set, the air age measurement can be started by clicking (tapping) the measurement start button.

[0071] To create a room sample image, click the "Create Room Sample Image" button. Clicking the "Create Room Sample Image" button will output (display) the room sample image creation screen (not shown) to display 13. The room sample image creation screen will output (display) the room sample image creation area, sample confirmation button, clear button, and cancel button. Using the touch panel, keyboard, or mouse, you can create multiple room sample images of any layout by freely arranging Room 11, which simulates an actual room 11. Clicking (tapping) the clear button will clear the created room sample images.

[0072] After creating a room sample image, clicking the sample confirmation button causes the controller to generate a unique room identification number (room identification identifier) ​​to identify the created room sample image, and stores the created room sample image on the hard disk, associated with the room identification number and creation date and time. The air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method can use a touch panel, keyboard, or mouse to create various multiple room sample images of any layout freely arranged from an existing room 11.

[0073] After storing the room sample images on the hard disk, the controller outputs (displays) a point setting screen (not shown) to the display 13. The point setting screen displays various room sample images (top view images of the room samples) representing the room sample images of each room 11, as well as a placement confirmation button, a clear button, and a cancel button.

[0074] On the point setting screen, after selecting a specific room sample image from several room sample images, the user can use a keyboard, touch panel, or mouse to drag and drop an ultrasonic humidifier 31 onto the air intake 20 (tracer particle generation point) of the room sample image. In addition to being able to attach an ultrasonic humidifier 31 to all air intake 20s, the user can also select one or more specific air intake 20s from among them and attach the ultrasonic humidifier 31 to them.

[0075] Furthermore, multiple light-scattering airborne particle counters 33a or multiple PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b can be attached (displayed) to any location (tracer particle measurement point) in the room sample image by drag and drop. In Figure 1, light-scattering airborne particle counters 33a or PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b are attached to seven locations (seven areas 12a to 12g) on ​​the floor of room 11, but the number of locations to attach a predetermined number (8 or more, and 6 or less) of light-scattering airborne particle counters 33a or PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b can be arbitrarily determined. Clicking (tapping) the clear button clears the attached ultrasonic humidifier 31, light-scattering airborne particle counters 33a, or PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b.

[0076] The ultrasonic humidifiers 31, light-scattering airborne particle counters 33a, or PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b attached to the room sample image of room 11 shown in Figure 1 correspond to the positions of the ultrasonic humidifiers 31, light-scattering airborne particle counters 33a, or PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b installed in the actual room 11. The air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method allow multiple ultrasonic humidifiers 31, multiple light-scattering airborne particle counters 33a, or multiple PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b to be freely attached (displayed) to any air intake 20 (tracer particle generation point) or any location (tracer particle measurement point) in the room sample image of room 11 shown in Figure 1 using a keyboard, touch panel, or mouse.

[0077] When the numerical input button is clicked on the condition setting screen, or the placement confirmation button is clicked on the measurement point setting screen, the controller outputs (displays) a numerical input screen (not shown) on the display 13. The numerical input screen displays a tracer particle generation point selection message for selecting an ultrasonic humidifier 31, a humidifier installation number input area for entering the number of ultrasonic humidifiers 31 to be installed, a room volume input area for entering the volume of the room 11, a tracer particle measurement point selection message for selecting a light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or a PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b, a measurement point input area for entering the number of light scattering type airborne particle counters 33a or PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b to be installed, an air age measurement interval (time) input area, a numerical confirmation button, a clear button, and a cancel button. Clicking (tapping) the clear button clears the numerical values ​​entered in each input area.

[0078] Following the message for selecting the tracer particle generation point, select the ultrasonic humidifier 31 that generates tracer particles 32 (invert the ultrasonic humidifier 31 displayed in the room sample image), and following the message for selecting the tracer particle measurement point, select the light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b to be used for measurement (invert the light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b displayed in the room sample image). Enter the air age measurement interval (for example, 30 minutes or 60 minutes) in the air age measurement interval (time) input area, and enter the number of ultrasonic humidifiers 31 installed, the volume of the room 11, and the number of light scattering type airborne particle counters 33a or PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b installed in each numerical input area.

[0079] Next, when the numerical confirmation button is clicked (tapped), the controller stores the humidifier identification number of the selected ultrasonic humidifier 31, the measuring instrument identification number of the selected light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b, the entered air age measurement interval (time), and the entered numerical values ​​in the hard disk, associated with the room specific identification number, area specific identification number, and entered date and time. The controller performs ON / OFF (start / stop) control only for the selected ultrasonic humidifier 31 and ON / OFF (start / stop) control only for the selected light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b.

[0080] After storing the selected ultrasonic humidifier 31 (humidifier identification number), the selected light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b (measuring device identification number), their values, and diffusion time (set time), the controller outputs (displays) the calculated diffusion time (set time), a measurement start button, a cancel button, and a clear button on the display. When the measurement start button is clicked, the controller starts the air conditioning and ventilation operation, and after confirming that the air conditioning and ventilation operation is in progress, it starts measuring the air age. The controller confirms that the control units of the supply fan of the air conditioner 17, the outside fan of the outside air duct 21, and the exhaust fan of the exhaust duct 22 are ON signals. The controller confirms that the opening of each supply damper and exhaust / return damper is not closed. The controller confirms that the airflow through the supply duct 18, exhaust / return duct 23b, return duct 23a, exhaust duct 22, and outside duct 21 is constant. When the air conditioning and ventilation system is in operation, as shown by the arrows in Figure 2, the air from each area 12a to 12g within the room 11 flows into the exhaust / return ducts 23b from each return air port 25, then enters the exhaust / return dampers 24 installed in the exhaust / return ducts 23b, and the predetermined air volume from each area 12a to 12g within the room 11, which has passed through the damper openings of the exhaust / return dampers 24, flows from the exhaust / return ducts 23b into the return duct 23a and the exhaust duct 22.

[0081] A portion of the air from each area 12a to 12g within the room 11 that flows into the exhaust / return air duct 23b is exhausted outside the room 11 through an exhaust port connected to one end of the exhaust duct 22, and the remaining air flows from the return air duct 23a towards the air conditioner 17 and flows into the air conditioner 17. Outside air flows into the outside air duct 21 from the outside air intake, and the outside air flows through the outside air duct 21 towards the air conditioner 17 and flows into the air conditioner 17.

[0082] The air from inside the room 11 that flows into the air conditioner 17 and the outside air pass through the filter 27, removing impurities such as dust and various bacteria contained in the air and outside air, and the air from which impurities have been removed flows from the air conditioner 17 into the supply air duct 18. After the air from which impurities have been removed flows into each supply air duct 18, it enters the supply air dampers 19 installed in those supply air ducts 18, and a predetermined amount of air that has passed through the damper openings of the supply air dampers 19 is supplied from each supply air inlet 20 to each area 12a to 12g inside the room 11. Inside the room 11, an airflow is generated that flows from each supply air inlet 20 toward each exhaust / return air inlet 25 due to the air conditioning and ventilation operation (Air Conditioning and Ventilation Means (Air Conditioning and Ventilation Process)) (S-1).

[0083] Furthermore, depending on the volume of room 11, the layout of room 11, the arrangement within room 11 (positions of chairs, desks, various electronic devices, bookshelves, partitions, etc. placed within room 11), the operating conditions of the heating and cooling system, and the movement of people within room 11, areas where air stagnates may occur among areas 12a to 12g. In areas where air stagnates, the arrival time of the supply air is slow (air exchange is slow), fresh air does not circulate, and dirty air containing dust and bacteria remains. Note that air stagnation refers to the quality of airflow in areas 12a to 12g (any location) within room 11.

[0084] Next, the controller sends an ON signal to the control unit of the selected ultrasonic humidifier 31 (an ultrasonic humidifier 31 installed in the actual room 11), and also sends an ON signal to the control unit of the selected light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a (a light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a installed in the actual room 11) or the selected PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b (an automatic PM2.5 measuring device 33b installed in the actual room 11). The supply air fan 26 of the air conditioner 17, the outside air fan 29 of the outside air duct 21, and the exhaust fan 30 of the exhaust duct 22 continue to operate, generating airflow in the room 11, and the air conditioning and ventilation operation continues.

[0085] Upon receiving an ON signal, the control units of the ultrasonic humidifiers 31 activate the ultrasonic humidifiers 31 and begin tracer particle generation operation (air age measurement). During tracer particle generation operation, the ultrasonic transducers of each ultrasonic humidifier 31 generate ultrasonic waves (vibrations), and these vibrations cause minute tracer particles 32 to be continuously released from the ultrasonic humidifiers 31. The minute tracer particles 32 gradually diffuse into the air in the room 11 (tracer particle generation means (tracer particle generation process)) (S-2). In the tracer particle generation means (tracer particle generation process), tracer particles 32 are diffused into the room 11 while an airflow is generated in the room 11 (space) by the air conditioning / ventilation generation process. In the tracer particle generation means (tracer particle generation process), tracer particles 32 are diffused into the room 11 from multiple ultrasonic humidifiers 31 (tracer particle generation points) installed at the air intake 20 of the room 11.

[0086] The tracer microparticle generating means (tracer microparticle generating process) diffuses minute tracer microparticles 32 into each area 12a to 12g within the chamber 11 until the concentration distribution of tracer microparticles 32 (tracers) in each area 12a to 12g within the chamber 11 reaches a steady state.

[0087] The air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method diffuse tracer particles 32 for a certain period of time using an ultrasonic humidifier 15, and diffuse the tracer particles 32 to each area 12a to 12g of room 11 until the concentration distribution of tracer particles 32 in room 11 reaches a steady state. Therefore, the concentration distribution of tracer particles 32 in room 11 can be reliably brought to a steady state, and there is no need to temporarily stop the air conditioning and ventilation operation of room 11 in order to bring the concentration distribution of tracer particles 32 in room 11 to a steady state.

[0088] The air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method diffuse tracer particles 32 (tracers) from the ultrasonic humidifier 31 into the room 11 in areas 12a to 12g that are spaced a predetermined distance apart from each other and do not interfere with one another. This allows the tracer particles 32 to be quickly diffused into each area 12a to 12g, and the concentration distribution of tracer particles 32 in the room 11 to be kept steady while air conditioning and ventilation are being operated.

[0089] The air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method generate minute tracer particles 32 by the vibrational energy of ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic humidifier 31. Therefore, the air age of the air in room 11 can be measured using tracer particles 32 at room temperature without using a special heat source. This allows for easy measurement of the air age of room 11 not only in rooms 11 where no people are present, but also in rooms 11 where people are present, without worrying about temperature increases.

[0090] The control unit of the light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a or the control unit of the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b, upon receiving an ON signal, activates the light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a or the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b. The light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a starts measuring the number data (numerical data) (tracer concentration) of tracer particles 32 diffused in the room 11 immediately after the ultrasonic humidifier 31 (tracer particle generating means (tracer particle generating process)) is activated. Alternatively, the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b starts measuring the weight concentration data (numerical data) (tracer concentration) of tracer particles 32 diffused in the room 11 immediately after the ultrasonic humidifier 31 (tracer particle generating means (tracer particle generating process)) is activated.

[0091] The control unit of the light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a continuously transmits data (numerical data) of the number of tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g within the room 11, as measured by the light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a, to the controller in a time-series manner. In some cases, the control unit of the light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a may also transmit data (numerical data) of the number of tracer particles 32 to the controller at predetermined time intervals. The control unit of the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b continuously transmits data (numerical data) of the weight concentration of tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g within the room 11, as measured by the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b, to the controller in a time-series manner. In some cases, the control unit of the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b may also transmit data (numerical data) of the weight concentration of tracer particles 32 to the controller at predetermined time intervals.

[0092] The controller determines whether the tracer concentration has reached a steady state by checking whether the change in the rise value of the measured numerical data has approached zero sufficiently since the start of the release of tracer particles 32 from the ultrasonic humidifiers 31. The controller stores the measured number data (measured numerical data) of tracer particles 32 when the steady number data (steady numerical data) is reached on the hard disk, associated with the measuring instrument identification number, room specific identification number, and measurement date and time of each light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b. If the change in the rise value of the measured numerical data is large, the controller continues the generation of tracer particles 32 from the ultrasonic humidifiers 31. (Tracer concentration determination means (tracer concentration determination step)) (S-3).

[0093] The air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method determine whether the concentration distribution of tracer particles 32 within the chamber 11 is in a steady state in multiple areas 12a to 12g (tracer particle measurement points) located at predetermined distances apart within the chamber 11. Therefore, the concentration distribution of tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g (the entire chamber 11) can be measured with high accuracy, and the steady state of the concentration distribution of tracer particles 32 in the chamber 11 can be accurately determined.

[0094] When the controller determines that the tracer concentration has reached a steady state after a certain amount of time has elapsed and the tracer concentration determination means (tracer concentration determination step) has determined that the measured numerical data has reached a steady state, it sends a stop signal to the control unit of the ultrasonic humidifier 31 and also sends a measurement signal to the control unit of the light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or the control unit of the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b. The control unit of the ultrasonic humidifier 31 stops the operation of the ultrasonic humidifier 31 (generation of tracer fine particles 32).

[0095] Furthermore, the supply fan 26 of the air conditioner 17, the outside fan 29 of the outside air duct 21, and the exhaust fan 30 of the exhaust duct 22 remain running. Air from room 11 flows into these exhaust / return ducts 23b, and from exhaust / return ducts 23b flows into return duct 23a and exhaust duct 22. A portion of the air from room 11 that flows into exhaust duct 22 is exhausted outside room 11 through the exhaust port, and the remaining air flows into air conditioner 17 from return duct 23a. Outside air flows into outside duct 21, and from outside duct 21 flows into air conditioner 17. Air from which impurities have been removed flows from air conditioner 17 into supply duct 18, and a predetermined volume of air is supplied to each area 12a to 12g in room 11 from each supply port 20 with a predetermined airflow direction.

[0096] The control units of the light-scattering airborne particle counters 33a continue (start) measuring the number of tracer particles (measured numerical data) in each area 12a to 12g within the room 11 using the light-scattering airborne particle counters 33a immediately after the ultrasonic humidifier 31 (tracer particle generation means (tracer particle generation process)) stops (tracer concentration measurement means (tracer concentration measurement process)) (S-4). The control units of the light-scattering airborne particle counters 33a transmit the number of tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g within the room 11, measured by each light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a, to the controller at predetermined time intervals, or transmit them continuously in a time series.

[0097] The control units of the PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b continue (start) measuring the measurement concentration data (measured numerical data) of tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g within the room 11 by the PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b immediately after the ultrasonic humidifier 31 (tracer particle generation means (tracer particle generation process)) stops (tracer concentration measurement means (tracer concentration measurement process)) (S-4). The control units of the PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b transmit the measurement concentration data of tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g within the room 11 measured by each PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b to the controller at predetermined time intervals, or transmit it continuously in chronological order.

[0098] As the supply fan 26 of the air conditioner 17, the outside fan 29 of the outside air duct 21, and the exhaust fan 30 of the exhaust duct 22 continue to operate, a portion of the air in the room 11 is exhausted outside through the exhaust port, the remaining air flows into the air conditioner 17, and outside air flows into the air conditioner 17 from the outside air duct 21. A predetermined volume of air is supplied to each area 12a to 12c in the room 11 from each supply port 20 at a predetermined airflow direction, and tracer particles 32 are gradually collected by the filter 27 of the air conditioner 17. As shown in Figure 4, the concentration of tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12c in the room 11 gradually decreases. Therefore, the number of tracer particles 32 measured by the light scattering airborne particle counter 33a is "particles / m³". 3 The value of "μg / m³" gradually decreases over time, or the measured concentration data of tracer particles 32 measured by the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b is "μg / m³". 3 The amount of "" gradually decreases over time.

[0099] The controller measures the time it takes for the tracer particle count data for each area 12a to 12g within the room 11 to drop from steady-state count data (steady-state numerical data) to 0 (the tracer particle count data becoming the same as that of the outside air (background)), and plots each tracer particle count data and the corresponding time on the graph shown in Figure 4.

[0100] The controller stores in the hard disk, associated with the room identification number, area identification number, measuring instrument identification number, and measurement date and time, each time from the measurement count data of tracer particles 32 at the start of measurement for each area 12a to 12g until it becomes 0. When the measurement count data of tracer particles in each area 12a to 12g within Room 11 becomes 0, the controller sends a stop signal to the control unit of the light scattering airborne particle counter 33a or PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b. Upon receiving the stop signal, the control unit of the light scattering airborne particle counter 33a or PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b stops the operation (measurement) of each light scattering airborne particle counter 33a or PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b.

[0101] As shown in Figure 4, the controller calculates the air age in each area 12a to 12g (each tracer particle measurement point) of the chamber 11 using the previously described air age calculation formula based on the decay status of the numerical data of tracer particles 32 over time in each area 12a to 12g of the chamber 11 in Figure 1 (the decay (change) status from the state in which the tracer particles 32 have diffused throughout almost the entire chamber 11 until the measured number data or measured concentration data of tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g becomes 0) (air age calculation means (air age calculation process)) (S-5).

[0102] As previously described, the air stagnation state in each area 12a to 12g within room 11 differs depending on the environment and operating conditions of room 11, resulting in differences in air age in each area 12a to 12g. Consequently, the time it takes for the measured concentration data or measured number data of tracer particles 32 to drop from steady-state number data or steady-state concentration data to zero differs for each area 12a to 12g. In this case, in areas 12a to 12g where the time it takes for the measured concentration data or measured number data of tracer particles 32 to drop from steady-state number data or steady-state concentration data to drop to zero is long (areas 12a to 12g where the measured concentration data or measured number data of tracer particles 32 decays at a gentle slope), the arrival time of the supply air is slow (air exchange due to air flow is slow), and the air age in those areas 12a to 12g is large, resulting in a longer air age. Conversely, in areas 12a to 12g where the time it takes for the measured concentration data or measured number data of tracer particles 32 to drop from steady-state number data or steady-state concentration data to zero is short (areas 12a to 12g where the measured concentration data or measured number data of tracer particles 32 is rapidly decreasing), the arrival time of the supplied air is short (the air is replaced quickly due to airflow, the air age in those areas 12a to 12g is small, and the air age becomes short).

[0103] The computer stores the air ages in each area 12a to 12g of room 11 (space) in Figure 1, calculated by the air age calculation means (air age calculation process), on the hard disk, associated with the measuring instrument identification number of each light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or the measuring instrument identification number, room specific identification number, area specific identification number, and measurement date and time of each PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b.

[0104] The controller outputs (displays) the air age in each area 12a to 12g within the chamber 11, calculated by the air age calculation means (air age calculation process), to the display 13 (air age output means (air age output process)) (S-6). The display 13 outputs (displays) the air age output screen shown in Figure 5. In Figure 5, the air age in each area 12a to 12g within the chamber 11 is represented by the intensity of the color. The darkest color (areas 12a to 12g) indicates a large air age, and the lightest color (areas 12a to 12g) indicates a small air age.

[0105] Furthermore, it is also possible to output the air age as a numerical value for each area 12a to 12g. For example, the air age output screen in Figure 5 outputs (displays) areas NO1 to NO7 for each area 12a to 12g, and outputs (displays) the air age of area NO1 "20min", area NO2 "50min", area NO3 "1h10min", area NO4 "20min", area NO5 "20min", area NO6 "30min", and area NO7 "1h10min". An air age of "20min" indicates that it takes 20 minutes for the air in areas NO1, 4, and 5 to be replaced, and an air age of "1h10min" indicates that it takes 70 minutes for the air in areas NO3 and 7 to be replaced. An air age of "30min" indicates that it takes 30 minutes for the air in areas NO2 and 6 to be replaced. Additionally, the air age can be output audibly for each area from 12a to 12g.

[0106] The air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method stop the ultrasonic humidifiers 31 to stop the generation of minute tracer particles 32 after the number of tracer particles 32 measured in the room 11 becomes a steady number of particles (steady numerical data), or after the concentration of tracer particles 32 measured in the room 11 becomes a steady concentration of numerical data. At the same time, the number of tracer particles 32 measured in the room 11 is measured, or the concentration of tracer particles 32 measured in each area 12a to 12g of the room 11 is measured, while continuing to generate airflow in the room 11. The air age of each area 12a to 12g is calculated (by the calculation formula) based on the decay status of the numerical data of the measured tracer particles 32 over time after the numerical data of the tracer particles 32 has reached a steady state. Thus, the actual air age of each area 12a to 12g in a room 11 of a predetermined volume can be calculated.

[0107] The air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method output the calculated air age of each area 12a to 12g to the display 13, so that the actual air age of each area 12a to 12g can be known, and by knowing the actual air age of each area 12a to 12g, it is possible to know whether the air ventilation (air exchange) in each area 12a to 12g is good or bad.

[0108] The air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method are such that the ultrasonic humidifiers 31 (the tracer particle generating means (the tracer particle generating process)) are repositionable in the vicinity of the air intake 20, and the ON / OFF of the ultrasonic humidifiers 31 (the tracer particle generating means (the tracer particle generating process)) is performed for each ultrasonic humidifier 31 (each tracer particle generating means (each tracer particle generating process)), so the volume of the room 11, the layout of the room 11, and the layout inside the room 11 (chairs, desks, various electronic devices, books to be placed inside the room 11) are not measured. The ultrasonic humidifiers 31 (the tracer particle generating means (the tracer particle generating process)) can be placed near any of the air intakes 20, including the air intake 20, which can be arbitrarily selected according to the environment and operating conditions such as the location of shelves, partitions, etc., the operating conditions of the heating and cooling system, and the movement of people within the room 11. Furthermore, the ON / OFF status of the ultrasonic humidifiers 31 (the tracer particle generating means (the tracer particle generating process)) can be individually selected, and the air age of each area 12a to 12g within the room 11, which differs depending on the environment and operating conditions, can be accurately calculated.

[0109] The air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method are configured such that the light scattering type air particle counters 33a or the PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b (the numerical data measurement means (the numerical data measurement process)) are arranged to be changeably positioned in each of the selected areas 12a to 12g which can be arbitrarily selected from among the multiple areas 12a to 12g, and the ON / OFF of the light scattering type air particle counters 33a or the PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b (the numerical data measurement means (the numerical data measurement process)) is performed for each light scattering type air particle counter 33a or each PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b (each numerical data measurement means (each numerical data measurement process)), so the volume of the room 11, the layout of the room 11, and the layout inside the room 11 (in the room 11 Depending on the environment and operating conditions such as the positions of chairs, desks, various electronic devices, bookshelves, partitions, etc., the operating conditions of the heating and cooling system, and the movement of people within the room 11, the light-scattering airborne particle counters 33a or the PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b (the numerical data measurement means (the numerical data measurement process)) can be arbitrarily placed in each of the selected areas 12a to 12g, which can be arbitrarily selected from among the multiple areas 12a to 12g. Furthermore, the ON / OFF status of the light-scattering airborne particle counters 33a or the PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b (the numerical data measurement means (the numerical data measurement process)) can be individually selected, and the air age of each area 12a to 12g within the room 11, which differs depending on the environment and operating conditions, can be accurately calculated.

[0110] The controller continues to operate the supply fan 26 of the air conditioner 17, the outside fan 29 of the outside air duct 21, and the exhaust fan 30 of the exhaust duct 22, generating airflow in the room 11, as long as the air age measurement and output operation of the air age measurement and output system 10 (air age measurement and output method) is not completed, and continues the air conditioning and ventilation operation (air conditioning and ventilation means (air conditioning and ventilation process)) (S-1). After outputting (displaying) the air age in each area 12a to 12g to the display 13, if the measurement interval (time) of the air age entered in the air age measurement interval (time) input area has elapsed, the controller sends an ON signal to the control unit of the ultrasonic humidifier 31.

[0111] The ultrasonic humidifier 31 is activated, and tracer particles 32 are continuously released from the ultrasonic humidifier 31, and the tracer particles 32 gradually diffuse into the air in the room 11 (tracer particle generation means (tracer particle generation process)) (S-2). The controller transmits an ON signal to the control unit of the light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or the control unit of the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b. The light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b is activated, and the light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a starts measuring the number data (numerical data) of tracer particles 32 that have diffused into the room 11 immediately after the ultrasonic humidifier 31 is activated, or the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b starts measuring the weight concentration data (numerical data) of tracer particles 32 that have diffused into the room 11 immediately after the ultrasonic humidifier 31 is activated.

[0112] The controller determines when the tracer concentration reaches a steady state after the release of minute tracer particles 32 from the ultrasonic humidifiers 31, and also collects the measured number data (measured numerical data) of tracer particles 32 measured by the light scattering type airborne particle counters 33a, "particles / m³". 3 The controller then determines whether the change in the increase of the measured numerical data has become sufficiently close to zero (tracer concentration determination means (tracer concentration determination process)) (S-3). The controller also determines when the tracer concentration reaches a steady state from the release of minute tracer particles 32 from the ultrasonic humidifiers 31, and the measured concentration data (measured numerical data) of the tracer particles 32 measured by the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b "μg / m³ 3 The system then determines again whether the change in the rising value of the constant numerical data has become sufficiently close to 0 (tracer concentration determination means (tracer concentration determination step)) (S-3).

[0113] When the controller determines that enough time has elapsed for the tracer concentration to reach a steady state and that the change in the increase of the measured numerical data has become sufficiently close to zero, it sends a stop signal to the control unit of the ultrasonic humidifier 31 and a measurement signal to the control unit of the light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or the control unit of the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b, causing the ultrasonic humidifier 31 to stop operating (generating tracer fine particles 32).

[0114] The measurement of the number of tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g within the chamber 11 by the light scattering type airborne particle counters 33a continues (tracer concentration measurement means (tracer concentration measurement process)) (S-4), and the control unit of the light scattering type airborne particle counters 33a transmits the number of tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g to the controller.

[0115] The PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b continue to measure the measurement concentration data (measured numerical data) of tracer fine particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g within the room 11 (tracer concentration measurement means (tracer concentration measurement process)) (S-4), and the control unit of the PM2.5 automatic measuring devices 33b transmits the measurement concentration data of tracer fine particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g to the controller.

[0116] The controller measures the time elapsed between the steady-state count data (steady-state numerical data) and the zero count data of the tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g within the chamber 11, transmitted from the control unit of the light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a. The controller also measures the time elapsed between the steady-state count data and the zero count data of the tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g within the chamber 11, transmitted from the control unit of the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b, and the zero count data of the tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g within the chamber 11, transmitted from the control unit of the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b.

[0117] When the controller detects that the number of tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g, or the measured concentration data, becomes zero, it sends a stop signal to the control unit of the light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a or the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b, causing the light-scattering airborne particle counter 33a or the PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b to stop.

[0118] The controller recalculates the air age in each area 12a to 12g using a calculation formula based on the decay status from the state in which the tracer particles 32 have diffused throughout almost the entire room 11 until the measured number data or measured concentration data of the tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g becomes 0 (air age calculation means (air age calculation process)) (S-5). The computer stores the air age in each area 12a to 12g calculated by the air age calculation means (air age calculation process) in the hard disk, associated with the measuring instrument identification number of each light scattering type airborne particle counter 33a or the measuring instrument identification number, room specific identification number, area specific identification number, and measurement date and time of each PM2.5 automatic measuring device 33b. The controller then outputs (displays) the air age in each area 12a to 12g calculated by the air age calculation means (air age calculation process) to the display 13 again (air age output means (air age output process)) (S-6) (see Figure 5). The controller repeatedly performs the following steps at each air age measurement interval (time): tracer particle generation means (tracer particle generation process), tracer concentration determination means (tracer concentration determination process), tracer concentration measurement means (tracer concentration measurement process), air age calculation means (air age calculation process), and air age output means (air age output process).

[0119] The air age measurement and output system 10 and the air age measurement and output method output the calculated air age for each area 12a to 12g, then continue generating airflow in the room 11 and generate tracer particles 32 in the room 11. When it is determined again that the concentration distribution of tracer particles 32 in the room 11 is in a steady state, the generation of tracer particles 32 is stopped, and while continuing to generate airflow, numerical data of tracer particles 32 in each area 12a to 12g is measured, the air age for each area 12a to 12g is recalculated, and the recalculated air age for each area 12a to 12g is output (displayed). This procedure is repeated, so that the actual air age for each area 12a to 12g after a change in environment or operating conditions can be determined, and the ventilation quality of the air in each area 12a to 12g after a change in environment or operating conditions can be determined. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0120] 10. Air Age Measurement and Output System 11 rooms (space) 12a~12g area 13 displays 14 Master Unit 15. Air supply mechanism 16. Exhaust and return air mechanism 17 Air conditioner 18. Air supply duct 19. Air intake damper 20 Air supply port 21 Outdoor air duct 22 Exhaust duct 23a Return air duct 23b Exhaust / return duct 24 Exhaust / return air damper 25 Exhaust / Return Port 26. Intake fan 27 Filters 28. Louvers (wind direction adjustment plates) 29 Outdoor fan 30 Exhaust fan 31. Ultrasonic humidifier (tracer particle generator) 32 Tracer microparticles 33 Tracer concentration measuring device 33a Light scattering type airborne particle counter 33b PM2.5 measuring device 34 coils

Claims

1. In an air age measurement and output system that measures the air age of a room of a predetermined volume and outputs the measured air age of the room, The air age measurement and output system includes an air conditioning and ventilation means that exhausts air from the room and supplies air into the room, and generates airflow in the room; a tracer particle generating means arranged near the air supply port for supplying air into the room, and generating tracer particles to diffuse the tracer particles into the room; a plurality of tracer concentration measuring means arranged in a plurality of areas of the room, and measuring the concentration of tracer particles diffused in those areas; a tracer concentration determination means that determines whether the concentration distribution of tracer particles in the room measured by the tracer concentration measuring means is in a steady state; and the tracer concentration determination means that determines the concentration distribution in the room An air age measurement and output system characterized by comprising: a numerical data measurement means for measuring numerical data of tracer particles in each area of ​​the room while stopping the generation of tracer particles by the tracer particle generating means and continuing the generation of the airflow by the air conditioning and ventilation means when it is determined that the concentration distribution of tracer particles is in a steady state; an air age calculation means for calculating the air age of each area based on the decay status of the tracer particles in each area of ​​the room over time since the start of measurement of numerical data of tracer particles by the numerical data measurement means; and an air age output means for outputting the air age of each area calculated by the air age calculation means.

2. The air age measurement and output system according to claim 1, wherein the air conditioning and ventilation means includes a circulation path for circulating the air into the room, a filter for collecting tracer particles is installed in the circulation path, and the air age measurement and output system collects tracer particles contained in the air after the numerical data of the tracer particles has been measured by the numerical data measurement means using the filter, and supplies the air from which the tracer particles have been collected into the room.

3. The air age measurement and output system according to claim 2, wherein the air conditioning and ventilation means comprises an air supply means having a plurality of air supply ports for supplying air into the room, and an exhaust means for exhausting air from the room, and an airflow is generated in the room by supplying air into the room with the air supply means and exhausting air from the room with the exhaust means.

4. The air age measurement and output system according to claim 3, wherein the tracer particle generating means are repositionably arranged near the air intake ports of the air supply means, and the ON / OFF switching of the tracer particle generating means is performed for each tracer particle generating means.

5. The air age measurement and output system according to claim 4, wherein the numerical data measurement means are arranged in a manner that allows them to be rearranged in each of the selected areas arbitrarily selected from among the plurality of areas, and the ON / OFF of the numerical data measurement means is performed for each numerical data measurement means.

6. The air age measurement and output system according to claim 5, wherein the air age output means outputs the air age for each of the arbitrarily selected areas.

7. The air age measurement and output system according to claim 1, which repeats the procedure of outputting the air age of each area in the room calculated by the air age calculation means using the air age output means, generating airflow in the room using the air conditioning / ventilation means and generating tracer particles in the room using the tracer particle generation means, and when the tracer concentration determination means determines again that the concentration distribution of tracer particles in the room is in a steady state, stopping the generation of tracer particles by the tracer particle generation means and continuing the generation of airflow by the air conditioning / ventilation means, measuring numerical data of tracer particles in each area of ​​the room using the numerical data measurement means, recalculating the air age of each area using the air age calculation means, and outputting the air age of each area recalculated by the air age calculation means using the air age output means.

8. In an air age measurement and output method that measures the air age of a room of a predetermined volume and outputs the measured air age of the room, The air age measurement and output method comprises an air conditioning and ventilation step of exhausting air from the room and supplying air to the room and generating airflow in the room; a tracer particle generation step of generating tracer particles in order to diffuse tracer particles into the room, which is located near the air supply port for supplying air to the room; a plurality of tracer concentration measurement steps of measuring the concentration of tracer particles diffused in a plurality of areas of the room; a tracer concentration determination step of determining whether the concentration distribution of tracer particles in the room measured by the tracer concentration measurement step is in a steady state; and the tracer concentration determination step of determining whether the concentration distribution of tracer particles in the room is in a steady state. An air age measurement and output method characterized by comprising: a numerical data measurement step, in which, when it is determined that the concentration distribution of tracer particles is in a steady state, the generation of tracer particles by the tracer particle generation step is stopped and the generation of the airflow by the air conditioning and ventilation step is continued, while measuring numerical data of tracer particles in each area of ​​the room; an air age calculation step, in which the air age of each area is calculated based on the decay status of the tracer particles in each area of ​​the room over time from the start of measurement of numerical data of tracer particles by the numerical data measurement step; and an air age output step, in which the air age of each area calculated by the air age calculation step is output.

9. The air age measurement and output method according to claim 8, wherein the air conditioning and ventilation process includes a circulation path for circulating the air into the room, a filter for collecting tracer particles is installed in the circulation path, and the air age measurement and output method includes collecting tracer particles contained in the air after the numerical data of the tracer particles has been measured by the numerical data measurement process using the filter, and supplying the air from which the tracer particles have been collected into the room.

10. The air age measurement and output method according to claim 9, wherein the air conditioning and ventilation process comprises an air supply process having a plurality of air supply ports for supplying air into the room, and an exhaust process for exhausting air from the room, and an airflow is generated in the room by supplying air into the room by the air supply process and exhausting air from the room by the exhaust process.

11. The air age measurement and output method according to claim 10, wherein the tracer particle generation steps are reconfigurably arranged near the air intake ports of the air supply step, and the ON / OFF of the tracer particle generation steps is performed for each tracer particle generation step.

12. The air age measurement and output method according to claim 11, wherein the numerical data measurement steps are arranged to be reconfigurable in each of the selected areas arbitrarily selected from the plurality of areas, and the ON / OFF of the numerical data measurement steps is performed for each numerical data measurement step.

13. The air age measurement and output method according to claim 12, wherein the air age output step outputs the air age for each of the arbitrarily selected areas.

14. The air age measurement and output method according to claim 13, which repeats the procedure of outputting the air age of each area in the room calculated by the air age calculation step by the air age output step, generating airflow in the room by the air conditioning / ventilation step and generating tracer particles in the room by the tracer particle generation step, and when it is determined again by the tracer concentration determination step that the concentration distribution of tracer particles in the room is in a steady state, stopping the generation of tracer particles by the tracer particle generation step and continuing the generation of airflow by the air conditioning / ventilation step, measuring numerical data of tracer particles in each area of ​​the room by the numerical data measurement step, recalculating the air age of each area by the air age calculation step, and outputting the air age of each area recalculated by the air age calculation step by the air age output step.

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