Air conditioning system and address setting method

Abstract

A first generating unit (101) generates a first network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within an air conditioning system, on the basis of a first address of an air conditioning control device (100) and a first rule, and sets the first network address in the air conditioning control device (100). A second generating unit (211) generates a second network address, which is a unique network address, on the basis of a second address of a first air conditioner (200) and the first rule, and sets the second network address in the first air conditioner (200). A third generating unit (311) generates a third network address, which is a unique network address, on the basis of a third address of a second air conditioner (300) and the first rule, and sets the third network address in the second air conditioner (300). A fourth generating unit (401) generates a fourth network address, which is a unique network address, on the basis of a fourth address of a terminal device (400) and a second rule, and sets the fourth network address in the terminal device (400).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioning system and an address setting method. [Background technology]

[0002] There is known an air conditioning system that is composed of multiple air conditioners, an air conditioning control device that controls the multiple air conditioners, and a terminal device for a user to operate the multiple air conditioners. In such a system, the communication methods used for communication between the respective devices are different, and therefore, there is a problem that communication between the devices using different communication methods cannot be performed without a communication method converter.

[0003] To address this problem, a technology has been proposed that generates a unique network address used for communication within a system, enabling communication between devices using different communication methods.For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology in an air conditioning system that includes a remote control, multiple indoor units capable of communicating with the remote control, and multiple outdoor units capable of communicating with at least one of the indoor units, in which a network address is generated for each device in the order of the remote control, indoor units, and outdoor units, using the addresses set for each device, and used for communication within the air conditioning system. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2018 / 220696 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, when attempting to set a network address in an air conditioning system in which multiple air conditioners, an air conditioning control device that controls the multiple air conditioners, and a terminal device that accepts operations for the multiple air conditioners are connected in a ring shape using the above technology, a process is performed in which network addresses are set from multiple directions from the terminal device to the air conditioning control device, which poses the problem that it is not possible to generate a unique network address to be used for communication within the air conditioning system.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and aims to provide an air conditioning system and an address setting method that are capable of setting a unique network address to be used for communication within an air conditioning system in which air conditioners, air conditioning control devices, and terminal devices are connected in a ring configuration. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the air conditioning system according to the present disclosure comprises: An air conditioning system in which a first air conditioner, a second air conditioner, an air conditioning control device that controls the first air conditioner and the second air conditioner, and a terminal device that accepts operation inputs for the first air conditioner and the second air conditioner are connected in a ring shape, the first air conditioner and the second air conditioner communicate with the air conditioning control device using a first communication method, and the first air conditioner and the second air conditioner communicate with the terminal device using a second communication method, a first generation means for generating a first network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system, based on a first address of the air conditioning control device used for communication by the first communication method and a first predetermined rule, and setting the first network address in the air conditioning control device; a second generation means for generating a second network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system, based on a second address of the first air conditioner used for communication by the first communication method and the first rule, and setting the second network address in the first air conditioner; a third generation means for generating a third network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system, based on a third address of the second air conditioner used for communication by the first communication method and the first rule, and setting the third network address in the second air conditioner; a fourth generation means for generating a fourth network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system, based on a fourth address of the terminal device used for communication by the second communication method and a second predetermined rule, and setting the fourth network address in the terminal device; The air conditioning control device transfers a command sent from the first air conditioner to the second air conditioner, the command being addressed to a network address other than the first network address; The first air conditioner transfers a command transmitted from the air conditioning control device to a network address other than the second network address, to the terminal device, and transfers a command transmitted from the terminal device to a network address other than the second network address, to the air conditioning control device; The second air conditioner transfers a command transmitted from the air conditioning control device to the terminal device, the command being addressed to a network address other than the third network address; The terminal device transfers a command received with a network address other than the fourth network address as its destination to the first air conditioner. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an air conditioning system and an address setting method that are capable of setting a unique network address to be used for communication within an air conditioning system in an air conditioning system in which air conditioners, air conditioning control devices, and terminal devices are connected in a ring configuration. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] Block diagram of an air conditioning system according to embodiment 1. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of an air conditioning control device and a terminal device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a first outdoor unit, a second outdoor unit, a first indoor unit, and a second indoor unit according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] A block diagram showing the functional configuration of an air conditioning system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a sequence diagram showing an address setting process in the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 is a flowchart showing details of an address setting process in a terminal device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a transmission destination determination process in the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] A block diagram showing the functional configuration of an air conditioning system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a transmission destination determination process in an air conditioning system according to a second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] (Embodiment 1) The air conditioning system according to the first embodiment is a system including a plurality of air conditioners.

[0011] 1, the air conditioning system 1000 includes an air conditioning control device 100, a first air conditioner 200, a second air conditioner 300, and a terminal device 400. The air conditioning system 1000 is a system constructed in a property such as an office building, a commercial facility, or an apartment building.

[0012] The air conditioning control device 100 is a device that controls the first air conditioner 200 and the second air conditioner 300. For example, the air conditioning control device 100 is a central controller that controls the first air conditioner 200 and the second air conditioner 300 to condition the air of the property. The air conditioning control device 100 is communicatively connected to the first air conditioner 200 and the second air conditioner 300 via a first network 1. The first network 1 is a local network configured by the air conditioning control device 100, the first outdoor unit 210 of the first air conditioner 200, and the second outdoor unit 310 of the second air conditioner 300, and is a network that communicates using a first communication method. The first communication method is a communication protocol used in the local network configured by the first outdoor unit 210 of the first air conditioner 200 and the second outdoor unit 310 of the second air conditioner 300.

[0013] The first air conditioner 200 and the second air conditioner 300 are air conditioners that operate according to commands from the air conditioning control device 100 and the terminal device 400. The first air conditioner 200 includes a first outdoor unit 210 and a first indoor unit 220, and the second air conditioner 300 includes a second outdoor unit 310 and a second indoor unit 320. The first outdoor unit 210 of the first air conditioner 200 and the second outdoor unit 310 of the second air conditioner 300 are communicatively connected to the air conditioning control device 100 via a first network 1. In addition, the first indoor unit 220 of the first air conditioner 200 and the second indoor unit 320 of the second air conditioner 300 are communicatively connected to the terminal device 400 via a second network 2. The second network 2 is a local network configured by the terminal device 400, the first indoor unit 220, and the second indoor unit 320, and is a network that communicates using a second communication method. The second communication method is a communication protocol used in a local network configured by the terminal device 400, the first indoor unit 220, and the second indoor unit 320.

[0014] Furthermore, the first outdoor unit 210 and the first indoor unit 220 are communicatively connected via a third network 3. The third network 3 is a local network configured by the first outdoor unit 210 and the first indoor unit 220, and is a network that performs communication according to a third communication method. The third communication method is a communication protocol used in the local network configured by the first outdoor unit 210 and the first indoor unit 220.

[0015] Furthermore, the second outdoor unit 310 and the second indoor unit 320 are communicatively connected via a fourth network 4. The fourth network 4 is a local network configured by the second outdoor unit 310 and the second indoor unit 320, and is a network that performs communication according to a fourth communication method. The fourth communication method is a communication protocol used in the local network configured by the second outdoor unit 310 and the second indoor unit 320.

[0016] The terminal device 400 is a device that accepts operation inputs for the first air conditioner 200 and the second air conditioner 300. For example, the terminal device 400 is a remote control for operating the first air conditioner 200 and the second air conditioner 300. The terminal device 400 is communicatively connected to the first indoor unit 220 of the first air conditioner 200 and the second indoor unit 320 of the second air conditioner 300 via the second network 2. Here, the first indoor unit 220 is an indoor unit that supplies power to the terminal device 400, and the terminal device 400 recognizes the first indoor unit 220 as a parent indoor unit and the second indoor unit 320 as a child indoor unit.

[0017] 1, the air conditioning control device 100, the first outdoor unit 210 of the first air conditioner 200, the first indoor unit 220 of the first air conditioner 200, the second outdoor unit 310 of the second air conditioner 300, the second indoor unit 320 of the second air conditioner 300, and the terminal device 400 are connected in a ring shape. Also, at least one of the first communication method, the second communication method, the third communication method, and the fourth communication method is a communication method different from the other communication methods.

[0018] Next, the hardware configuration of the air conditioning control device 100 and the terminal device 400 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0019] The air conditioning control device 100 has a processor 11 that executes various processes, a main memory unit 12 used as a work area for the processor 11, an auxiliary memory unit 13 that stores various data used in the processes of the processor 11, an input unit 14 that acquires input information, an output unit 15 that presents various information, and a communication unit 16 for communicating with external devices. The main memory unit 12, the auxiliary memory unit 13, the input unit 14, the output unit 15, and the communication unit 16 are all connected to the processor 11 via a bus 17.

[0020] The processor 11 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 11 executes programs stored in the auxiliary storage unit 13 to realize various functions of the air conditioning control device 100.

[0021] The main memory unit 12 includes a RAM (Random Access Memory). Programs are loaded into the main memory unit 12 from the auxiliary memory unit 13. The main memory unit 12 is used as a working area for the processor 11.

[0022] The auxiliary storage unit 13 includes a non-volatile memory such as an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory). In addition to programs, the auxiliary storage unit 13 stores various data used in the processing of the processor 11. In accordance with instructions from the processor 11, the auxiliary storage unit 13 supplies the processor 11 with data used by the processor 11 and stores the data supplied from the processor 11.

[0023] The input unit 14 includes input devices such as input keys, a pointing device, etc. The input unit 14 acquires information input by a user of the air conditioning control device 100, and notifies the processor 11 of the acquired information.

[0024] The output unit 15 includes output devices such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and a speaker. The output unit 15 may be configured as a touch screen integrally formed with a pointing device constituting the input unit 14. The output unit 15 presents various information to the user according to instructions from the processor 11.

[0025] The communication unit 16 includes a network interface circuit for communicating with external devices including the first air conditioner 200 and the second air conditioner 300. The communication unit 16 receives signals from external devices and outputs data indicated by these signals to the processor 11. The communication unit 16 also transmits signals indicating the data output from the processor 11 to the external devices.

[0026] Similarly, the terminal device 400 includes a processor 11 , a main memory unit 12 , an auxiliary memory unit 13 , an input unit 14 , an output unit 15 , and a communication unit 16 .

[0027] Next, the hardware configurations of the first outdoor unit 210, the first indoor unit 220, the second outdoor unit 310 and the second indoor unit 320 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0028] The first outdoor unit 210 has a processor 21 that executes various processes, a main memory unit 22 used as a work area for the processor 21, an auxiliary memory unit 23 that stores various data used in the processes of the processor 21, a first communication unit 24 for communicating with the air conditioning control device 100, and a second communication unit 25 for communicating with the first indoor unit 220. The main memory unit 22, the auxiliary memory unit 23, the first communication unit 24, and the second communication unit 25 are all connected to the processor 21 via a bus 26.

[0029] The processor 21, the main memory unit 22, and the auxiliary memory unit 23 have the same functions as the processor 11, the main memory unit 12, and the auxiliary memory unit 13, respectively.

[0030] The first communication unit 24 includes a network interface circuit for communicating with external devices including the air conditioning control device 100. The first communication unit 24 receives a signal from the external device and outputs data indicated by the signal to the processor 21. The first communication unit 24 also transmits a signal indicating the data output from the processor 21 to the external device.

[0031] The second communication unit 25 includes a network interface circuit for communicating with the first indoor unit 220. The second communication unit 25 receives a signal from the first indoor unit 220, and outputs data indicated by this signal to the processor 21. In addition, the second communication unit 25 transmits a signal indicating the data output from the processor 21 to the first indoor unit 220.

[0032] Similarly, the first indoor unit 220 has a processor 21, a main memory unit 22, an auxiliary memory unit 23, a first communication unit 24, and a second communication unit 25. The first communication unit 24 of the first indoor unit 220 is for communicating with external devices including the terminal device 400, and the second communication unit 25 of the first indoor unit 220 is for communicating with the first outdoor unit 210.

[0033] The second outdoor unit 310 also has a processor 21, a main memory unit 22, an auxiliary memory unit 23, a first communication unit 24, and a second communication unit 25. The first communication unit 24 of the second outdoor unit 310 is for communicating with external devices including the air conditioning control device 100, and the second communication unit 25 of the second outdoor unit 310 is for communicating with the second indoor unit 320.

[0034] The second indoor unit 320 has a processor 21, a main memory unit 22, an auxiliary memory unit 23, a first communication unit 24, and a second communication unit 25. The first communication unit 24 of the second indoor unit 320 is for communicating with external devices including the terminal device 400, and the second communication unit 25 of the second indoor unit 320 is for communicating with the second outdoor unit 310.

[0035] Next, referring to Figure 4, the functions of the air conditioning control device 100, the first outdoor unit 210 of the first air conditioner 200, the first indoor unit 220 of the first air conditioner 200, the second outdoor unit 310 of the second air conditioner 300, the second indoor unit 320 of the second air conditioner 300, and the terminal device 400 included in the air conditioning system 1000 will be described.

[0036] The air conditioning control device 100 functionally comprises a first generating unit 101 that generates a first network address, and a first storage unit 102 that stores the first network address.

[0037] The first outdoor unit 210 of the first air conditioner 200 functionally comprises a second generation unit 211 that generates a second network address, and a second storage unit 212 that stores the second network address.

[0038] The second outdoor unit 310 of the second air conditioner 300 functionally comprises a third generation unit 311 that generates a third network address, and a third storage unit 312 that stores the third network address.

[0039] Terminal device 400 functionally comprises a fourth generating unit 401 that generates a fourth network address, and a fourth storage unit 402 that stores the fourth network address.

[0040] The first indoor unit 220 of the first air conditioner 200 functionally comprises a fifth generation unit 221 that generates a fifth network address, and a fifth storage unit 222 that stores the fifth network address.

[0041] The second indoor unit 320 of the second air conditioner 300 functionally comprises a sixth generation unit 321 that generates a sixth network address, and a sixth storage unit 322 that stores the sixth network address.

[0042] The first generation unit 101 of the air conditioning control device 100 generates a first network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system 1000, based on a first address of the air conditioning control device 100 used for communication by the first communication method and a predetermined first rule, and sets the first network address in the air conditioning control device 100. The first generation unit 101 is realized by the processor 11 and the communication unit 16. The first generation unit 101 is an example of a first generation means.

[0043] The first address is an address of the air conditioning control device 100 used for communication by the first communication method. In other words, the first address is an address assigned to the air conditioning control device 100 in a local network made up of the air conditioning control device 100, the first outdoor unit 210, and the second outdoor unit 310. Hereinafter, the first address is defined as "0".

[0044] The first rule is a rule that is predetermined by the provider of the air conditioning system 1000, and is a rule for generating a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system 1000. The first rule is, for example, a rule that generates a network address by using an address used for communication by the first communication method as the upper digits of the network address and a predetermined value as the lower digits of the network address. Hereinafter, the predetermined value is defined as "1".

[0045] For example, when local communication with the first outdoor unit 210 and the second outdoor unit 310 is established, the first generation unit 101 generates a first network address "0.1" using the first address "0" as the most significant digit and a predetermined value "1" as the least significant digit, and sets the first network address "0.1" to the air conditioning control device 100. Then, the first generation unit 101 transmits a network address setting request to the first outdoor unit 210 and the second outdoor unit 310.

[0046] The first storage unit 102 of the air conditioning control device 100 stores the first network address. The first storage unit 102 is realized by the auxiliary storage unit 13. The first storage unit 102 is an example of a first storage means.

[0047] For example, the first storage unit 102 stores the first network address “0.1” as the network address of the air conditioning control device 100.

[0048] The second generation unit 211 of the first outdoor unit 210 generates a second network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system 1000, based on the second address assigned to the first outdoor unit 210 used for communication by the first communication method and the first rule, and sets the second network address to the first outdoor unit 210. The second generation unit 211 is realized by the processor 21 and the first communication unit 24. The second generation unit 211 is an example of a second generation means.

[0049] The second address is an address of the first outdoor unit 210 used for communication by the first communication method. In other words, the second address is an address assigned to the first outdoor unit 210 in a local network configured by the air conditioning control device 100, the first outdoor unit 210, and the second outdoor unit 310. Hereinafter, the second address is referred to as "1."

[0050] For example, when the second generation unit 211 receives a setting request from the air conditioning control device 100, it generates a second network address “1.1” using the second address “1” as the most significant digit and a predetermined value “1” as the least significant digit, and sets the second network address “1.1” to the first outdoor unit 210. In addition, the second generation unit 211 transmits a setting request including information of the second network address “1.1” to the first indoor unit 220.

[0051] The second storage unit 212 of the first outdoor unit 210 stores the second network address. The second storage unit 212 is realized by the auxiliary storage unit 23. The second storage unit 212 is an example of a second storage means.

[0052] For example, the second storage unit 212 stores the second network address “1.1” as the network address of the first outdoor unit 210.

[0053] The third generation unit 311 of the second outdoor unit 310 generates a third network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system 1000, based on the third address assigned to the second outdoor unit 310 used for communication by the first communication method and the first rule, and sets the third network address to the second outdoor unit 310 of the second air conditioner 300. The third generation unit 311 is realized by the processor 21 and the first communication unit 24. The third generation unit 311 is an example of a third generation means.

[0054] The third address is an address of the second outdoor unit 310 used for communication by the first communication method. In other words, the third address is an address assigned to the second outdoor unit 310 in the local network configured by the air conditioning control device 100, the first outdoor unit 210, and the second outdoor unit 310. Hereinafter, the third address will be referred to as "2".

[0055] For example, when the third generation unit 311 receives a setting request from the air conditioning control device 100, it generates a third network address “2.1” using the third address “2” as the most significant digit and a predetermined value “1” as the least significant digit, and sets the third network address “2.1” to the second outdoor unit 310. In addition, the third generation unit 311 transmits a setting request including information of the third network address “2.1” to the second indoor unit 320.

[0056] The third storage unit 312 of the second outdoor unit 310 stores the third network address. The third storage unit 312 is realized by the auxiliary storage unit 23. The third storage unit 312 is an example of a third storage means.

[0057] For example, the third storage unit 312 stores the third network address “2.1” as the network address of the second outdoor unit 310.

[0058] The fifth generation unit 221 of the first indoor unit 220 generates a fifth network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system 1000, based on the fifth address of the first indoor unit 220 used for communication by the third communication method, the second network address, and a predetermined third rule, and sets the fifth network address to the first indoor unit 220. The fifth generation unit 221 is realized by the processor 21 and the first communication unit 24. The fifth generation unit 221 is an example of a fifth generation means.

[0059] The fifth address is the address of the first indoor unit 220 used for communication by the third communication method. That is, the fifth address is an address assigned to the first indoor unit 220 in the local network configured by the first outdoor unit 210 and the first indoor unit 220. Hereinafter, the fifth address is defined as "1." It is assumed that the seventh address "0" is assigned to the first outdoor unit 210 in the local network configured by the first outdoor unit 210 and the first indoor unit 220.

[0060] The third rule is a rule that is predetermined by the provider of the air conditioning system 1000, and is a rule for generating a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system 1000. The third rule is, for example, a rule that generates a fifth network address by using the value of the most significant digit of the second network address as the most significant digit of the network address, and using a value obtained by performing a predetermined arithmetic process on the fifth address as the least significant digit of the network address. The predetermined arithmetic process is, for example, a process of adding 1.

[0061] For example, when the fifth generation unit 221 receives a setting request including information on the second network address "1.1" from the first outdoor unit 210, it generates a fifth network address "1.2" by using the value "1" of the most significant digit of the second network address "1.1" as the most significant digit of the network address and using the value "2" obtained by adding 1 to the fifth address "1" as the least significant digit of the network address. Then, the fifth generation unit 221 sets the fifth network address "1.2" to the first indoor unit 220. Also, the fifth generation unit 221 transmits a setting request including information on the fifth network address "1.2" to the terminal device 400.

[0062] The fifth storage unit 222 stores a fifth network address. The fifth storage unit 222 is realized by the auxiliary storage unit 23. The fifth storage unit 222 is an example of a fifth storage means.

[0063] For example, the fifth storage unit 222 stores the fifth network address “1.2” as the network address of the first indoor unit 220.

[0064] The sixth generation unit 321 of the second indoor unit 320 generates a sixth network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system 1000, based on the sixth address of the second indoor unit 320 used for communication by the fourth communication method, the third network address, and a predetermined fourth rule, and sets the sixth network address to the second indoor unit 320. The sixth generation unit 321 is realized by the processor 21 and the first communication unit 24. The sixth generation unit 321 is an example of a sixth generation means.

[0065] The sixth address is the address of the second indoor unit 320 used for communication by the fourth communication method. That is, the sixth address is an address assigned to the second indoor unit 320 in the local network configured by the second outdoor unit 310 and the second indoor unit 320. Hereinafter, the sixth address is defined as "1." It is assumed that the second outdoor unit 310 is assigned the eighth address "0" in the local network configured by the second outdoor unit 310 and the second indoor unit 320.

[0066] The fourth rule is a rule that is predetermined by the provider of the air conditioning system 1000, and is a rule for generating a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system 1000. The fourth rule is, for example, a rule that generates a sixth network address by using the value of the most significant digit of the third network address as the most significant digit of the network address, and using a value obtained by performing a predetermined arithmetic process on the sixth address as the least significant digit of the network address.

[0067] For example, when the sixth generation unit 321 receives a setting request including information of the third network address “2.1” from the second outdoor unit 310, it generates a sixth network address “2.2” by using the value “2” of the most significant digit of the third network address “2.1” as the most significant digit of the network address and using the value “2” obtained by adding 1 to the sixth address “1” as the least significant digit of the network address. Then, the sixth generation unit 321 sets the sixth network address “2.2” to the second indoor unit 320.

[0068] The sixth storage unit 322 stores a sixth network address. The sixth storage unit 322 is realized by the auxiliary storage unit 23. The sixth storage unit 322 is an example of a sixth storage means.

[0069] For example, the sixth storage unit 322 stores the sixth network address “2.2” as the network address of the second indoor unit 320.

[0070] The fourth generating unit 401 of the terminal device 400 generates a fourth network address that is a unique network address in communication of the air conditioning system 1000 based on the fourth address of the terminal device 400 used for communication by the second communication method, the fifth network address, and a predetermined second rule, and sets the fourth network address to the terminal device 400. The fourth generating unit 401 is realized by the processor 11 and the communication unit 16. The fourth generating unit 401 is an example of a fourth generating means.

[0071] The fourth address is an address of the terminal device 400 used for communication by the second communication method. That is, the fourth address is an address assigned to the terminal device 400 in a local network configured by the terminal device 400, the first indoor unit 220, and the second indoor unit 320. Hereinafter, the fourth address is assumed to be "3." It is assumed that in the local network configured by the terminal device 400, the first indoor unit 220, and the second indoor unit 320, the first indoor unit 220 is assigned the ninth address "1" and the second indoor unit 320 is assigned the tenth address "2."

[0072] The second rule is a rule that is determined in advance by the provider of the air conditioning system 1000, and is a rule for generating a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system 1000. The second rule is, for example, a rule that generates a fourth network address by using the value of the most significant digit of the fifth network address as the most significant digit of the network address and using the fourth address as the least significant digit of the network address.

[0073] For example, when the fourth generation unit 401 receives a setting request including information of the fifth network address “1.2” from the first indoor unit 220, it generates the fourth network address “1.3” by using the most significant digit value “1” of the fifth network address “1.2” as the most significant digit of the network address and the fourth address “3” as the least significant digit of the network address. Then, the fourth generation unit 401 sets the fourth network address “1.3” in the terminal device 400.

[0074] The fourth storage unit 402 stores a fourth network address. The fourth storage unit 402 is realized by the auxiliary storage unit 13. The fourth storage unit 402 is an example of a fourth storage means.

[0075] For example, the fourth storage unit 402 stores the fourth network address “1.3” as the network address of the terminal device 400.

[0076] After unique network addresses have been determined for the air conditioning control device 100, the first outdoor unit 210 of the first air conditioner 200, the first indoor unit 220 of the first air conditioner 200, the second outdoor unit 310 of the second air conditioner 300, the second indoor unit 320 of the second air conditioner 300, and the terminal device 400, when each device receives a command including a network address as a destination, it determines whether the destination network address is its own network address, and if it determines that it is not its own network address, it performs the processing shown below.

[0077] The air conditioning control device 100 transfers to the second outdoor unit 310 a command sent from the first outdoor unit 210 with a network address other than the first network address “0.1” as its destination.

[0078] In addition, the first outdoor unit 210 transfers commands sent from the air conditioning control device 100 with a network address other than the second network address “1.1” as its destination to the first indoor unit 220, and transfers commands sent from the first indoor unit with a network address other than the second network address “1.1” as its destination to the air conditioning control device 100.

[0079] The second outdoor unit 310 transfers to the second indoor unit 320 a command sent from the air conditioning control device 100 with a network address other than the third network address “2.1” as its destination.

[0080] The first indoor unit 220 transfers commands sent from the first outdoor unit 210 to a network address other than the fifth network address “1.2” to the terminal device 400, and transfers commands sent from the terminal device 400 to a network address other than the fifth network address “1.2” to the first outdoor unit 210.

[0081] The second indoor unit 320 transfers to the terminal device 400 a command sent from the second outdoor unit 310 with a network address other than the sixth network address “2.2” as its destination.

[0082] The terminal device transfers a command received with a network address other than the fourth network address as its destination to the first indoor unit.

[0083] Next, the address setting process executed in the air conditioning system 1000 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the sequence diagram of Fig. 5. The address setting process of Fig. 5 is executed after local communication connections are established in the first network 1, the second network 2, the third network 3, and the fourth network 4. By the address setting process of Fig. 5, unique network addresses used for communication within the air conditioning system 1000 are determined for the air conditioning control device 100, the first outdoor unit 210 of the first air conditioner 200, the first indoor unit 220 of the first air conditioner 200, the second outdoor unit 310 of the second air conditioner 300, the second indoor unit 320 of the second air conditioner 300, and the terminal device 400.

[0084] The first generation unit 101 of the air conditioning control device 100 generates a first network address based on the first address assigned to the air conditioning control device 100 in the first network 1 and the first rule, sets the first network address to the air conditioning control device 100, and the first storage unit 102 of the air conditioning control device 100 stores the first network address (step S101). Then, the first generation unit 101 of the air conditioning control device 100 transmits a network address setting request to the first outdoor unit 210 (step S102). The first generation unit 101 of the air conditioning control device 100 also transmits a network address setting request to the second outdoor unit 310 (step S103).

[0085] For example, the first generation unit 101 generates a first network address "0.1" using the first address "0" as the most significant digit and a predetermined value "1" as the least significant digit, and sets the first network address "0.1" to the air conditioning control device 100. The first storage unit 102 also stores the first network address "0.1" as the network address of the air conditioning control device 100. The first generation unit 101 then transmits a network address setting request to the first outdoor unit 210 and the second outdoor unit 310.

[0086] The second generation unit 211 of the first outdoor unit 210 generates a second network address based on the second address assigned to the first outdoor unit 210 in the first network 1 and the first rule, sets the second network address to the first outdoor unit 210, and the second storage unit 212 of the first outdoor unit 210 stores the second network address (step S104). Then, the second generation unit 211 of the first outdoor unit 210 transmits a network address setting request to the first indoor unit 220 (step S105).

[0087] For example, when the second generation unit 211 receives a setting request from the air conditioning control device 100, it generates a second network address "1.1" using the second address "1" as the most significant digit and a predetermined value "1" as the least significant digit, and sets the second network address "1.1" to the first outdoor unit 210. Furthermore, the second storage unit 212 stores the second network address "1.1" as the network address of the first outdoor unit 210. Then, the second generation unit 211 transmits a setting request including information of the second network address "1.1" to the first indoor unit 220.

[0088] The fifth generation unit 221 of the first indoor unit 220 generates a fifth network address based on the fifth address assigned to the first indoor unit 220 in the third network 3, the second network address, and the third rule, and sets the fifth network address to the first indoor unit 220, and the fifth storage unit 222 of the first indoor unit 220 stores the fifth network address (step S106). Then, the fifth generation unit 221 of the first indoor unit 220 transmits a network address setting request to the terminal device 400 (step S107).

[0089] For example, when the fifth generation unit 221 receives a setting request including information on the second network address "1.1" from the first outdoor unit 210, it uses the value "1" of the most significant digit of the second network address "1.1" as the most significant digit of the network address, and uses the value "2" obtained by adding 1 to the fifth address "1" as the least significant digit of the network address to generate a fifth network address "1.2", and sets the fifth network address "1.2" to the first indoor unit 220. The fifth storage unit 222 also stores the fifth network address "1.2" as the network address of the first indoor unit 220. The fifth generation unit 221 then transmits a setting request including information on the fifth network address "1.2" to the terminal device 400.

[0090] The fourth generation unit 401 of the terminal device 400 generates a fourth network address based on the fourth address assigned to the terminal device 400 in the second network 2, the fifth network address, and the second rule, and sets the fourth network address to the terminal device 400, and the fourth memory unit 402 stores the fourth network address (step S108).

[0091] For example, when the fourth generation unit 401 receives a setting request including information of the fifth network address “1.2” from the first indoor unit 220, it uses the value “1” of the most significant digit of the fifth network address “1.2” as the most significant digit of the network address and the value “3” of the fourth address as the least significant digit of the network address to generate the fourth network address “1.3”, and sets the fourth network address “1.3” to the terminal device 400. In addition, the fourth storage unit 402 stores the fourth network address “1.3” as the network address of the terminal device 400.

[0092] Furthermore, after step S103, the third generation unit 311 of the second outdoor unit 310 generates a third network address based on the third address assigned to the second outdoor unit 310 in the first network 1 and the first rule, sets the third network address in the second outdoor unit 310, and the third storage unit 312 of the second outdoor unit 310 stores the third network address (step S109). Then, the third generation unit 311 of the second outdoor unit 310 transmits a network address setting request to the second indoor unit 320 (step S110).

[0093] For example, when the third generation unit 311 receives a setting request from the air conditioning control device 100, it generates a third network address “2.1” using the third address “2” as the most significant digit and a predetermined value “1” as the least significant digit, and sets the third network address “2.1” to the second outdoor unit 310. Furthermore, the third storage unit 312 stores the third network address “2.1” as the network address of the second outdoor unit 310. Then, the third generation unit 311 transmits a setting request including information of the third network address “2.1” to the second indoor unit 320.

[0094] The sixth generation unit 321 of the second indoor unit 320 generates a sixth network address based on the sixth address assigned to the second indoor unit 320 in the fourth network 4, the third network address, and the fourth rule, and sets the sixth network address to the second indoor unit 320, and the sixth memory unit 322 of the second indoor unit 320 stores the sixth network address (step S111).

[0095] For example, when the sixth generation unit 321 receives a setting request including information of the third network address “2.1” from the second outdoor unit 310, it uses the value “2” of the most significant digit of the third network address “2.1” as the most significant digit of the network address, and uses the value “2” obtained by adding 1 to the sixth address “1” as the least significant digit of the network address to generate a sixth network address “2.2”, and sets the sixth network address “2.2” to the second indoor unit 320. Also, the sixth memory unit 322 stores the sixth network address “2.2” as the network address of the second indoor unit 320.

[0096] Next, details of the address setting process in the terminal device 400 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 6. The process in Fig. 6 is executed after local communication is established on the second network 2 to which the terminal device 400 is connected. The process in step S108 shown in Fig. 5 corresponds to the processes in steps S201 and S202 in the flowchart in Fig. 6. Furthermore, when a local communication connection on the second network 2 is established, the terminal device 400 sets the destination of commands in communication using a network address to the first indoor unit 220, which is the master indoor unit.

[0097] The fourth generation unit 401 judges whether or not a network address [xy] has been notified from the parent indoor unit (step S201). If the fourth generation unit 401 judges that a network address has been notified from the parent indoor unit (step S201; YES), it generates a fourth network address [x.y+1] from the fourth address, the notified network address, and the second rule, and sets and stores the fourth network address as its own network address (step S202). On the other hand, if the fourth generation unit 401 judges that a network address has not been notified from the parent indoor unit (step S201; NO), it judges whether or not a network address [xy] has been notified from the child indoor unit (step S203).

[0098] For example, when the fourth generation unit 401 receives a setting request including information of the fifth network address "1.2" from the first indoor unit 220, which is the parent indoor unit, it generates a fourth network address "1.3" and sets the fourth network address "1.3" to the terminal device 400, and the fourth storage unit 402 stores the fourth network address "1.3." On the other hand, when the fourth generation unit 401 determines that it has not received a setting request including information of the fifth network address from the first indoor unit 220, which is the parent indoor unit, it determines whether it has received a setting request including information of the sixth network address from the second indoor unit 320, which is the child indoor unit.

[0099] In step S203, if the fourth generation unit 401 determines that a network address [xy] has been notified from the child indoor unit (step S203; YES), it generates a fourth network address [x.y+1] from the fourth address, the notified network address, and the second rule, and sets and stores the fourth network address as its own network address (step S204).On the other hand, if the fourth generation unit 401 determines that a network address has not been notified from the child indoor unit (step S203; NO), it determines whether a preset timeout period has elapsed (step S208).

[0100] For example, when the fourth generation unit 401 receives a setting request including information of the sixth network address “2.2” from the second indoor unit 320, which is the child indoor unit, it generates a fourth network address “2.3” and sets the fourth network address “2.3” to the terminal device 400, and the fourth storage unit 402 stores the fourth network address “2.3.” On the other hand, when the fourth generation unit 401 determines that it has not received a setting request including information of the sixth network address from the second indoor unit 320, which is the child indoor unit, it determines whether the time since local communication was established has elapsed the timeout period.

[0101] After the process of step S204, the fourth generation unit 401 sets the network address of the parent indoor unit to [x+1.2] (step S205). Furthermore, the fourth generation unit 401 sets the network address of the outdoor unit connected to the parent indoor unit to [x+1.1] (step S206). Then, the fourth generation unit 401 changes the setting so that the child indoor unit that notified the network address is recognized as the parent indoor unit (step S207).

[0102] For example, the fourth generation unit 401 transmits a setting request to the first indoor unit 220, which is the parent indoor unit, to set the fifth network address to "3.2". The fifth generation unit 221 of the first indoor unit 220 sets the fifth network address to "3.2" as the network address of the first indoor unit 220, and the fifth storage unit 222 stores the fifth network address "3.2". The fourth generation unit 401 also transmits a setting request to the first indoor unit 220, which is the parent indoor unit, to set the second network address to "3.1" of the first outdoor unit 210 connected to the first indoor unit 220. The fifth generation unit 221 of the first indoor unit 220 transfers the received setting request to the first outdoor unit 210. Then, the second generation unit 211 of the first outdoor unit 210 sets the second network address “3.1” as the network address of the first outdoor unit 210, and the second storage unit 212 stores the second network address “3.1.” Then, the fourth generation unit 401 changes the settings so that the second indoor unit 320 that notified the network address is recognized as the parent indoor unit, and the first indoor unit 220 is recognized as the child indoor unit.

[0103] In step S208, if the fourth generation unit 401 determines that the preset timeout time has elapsed (step S208; YES), it sets and stores the fourth network address [1.0] as its own network address (step S209). Then, the fourth generation unit 401 sets the network address of the parent indoor unit to [1.2] (step S210). Furthermore, the fourth generation unit 401 sets the network address of the outdoor unit connected to the parent indoor unit to [1.1] (step S211). On the other hand, if the fourth generation unit 401 determines that the preset timeout time has not elapsed (step S208; NO), it returns to step S201.

[0104] For example, when the fourth generation unit 401 determines that the time since the local communication was established has passed the timeout time, it sets the fourth network address "1.0" to the terminal device 400, and the fourth storage unit 402 stores the fourth network address "1.0". In addition, the fourth generation unit 401 transmits a setting request to the first indoor unit 220, which is the parent indoor unit, to set the fifth network address to "1.2". The fifth generation unit 221 of the first indoor unit 220 sets the fifth network address "1.2" as the network address of the first indoor unit 220, and the fifth storage unit 222 stores the fifth network address "1.2". In addition, the fourth generation unit 401 transmits a setting request to the first indoor unit 220, which is the parent indoor unit, to set the second network address of the first outdoor unit 210 connected to the first indoor unit 220 to "1.1". The fifth generation unit 221 of the first indoor unit 220 transfers the received setting request to the first outdoor unit 210. Then, the second generation unit 211 of the first outdoor unit 210 sets the second network address “1.1” as the network address of the first outdoor unit 210, and the second storage unit 212 stores the second network address “1.1”.

[0105] Next, Fig. 7 shows an example of a command transmission destination determination process executed in the air conditioning system 1000 after network addresses are set for devices included in the air conditioning system 1000. Fig. 7 shows a case where the terminal device 400 accepts an operation for the second outdoor unit 310.

[0106] When the terminal device 400 receives a command for the second outdoor unit 310 from the user (step S301), it determines the destination of the received command (step S302). When the terminal device 400 determines that the destination of the received command is not its own network address, it transmits the command to the first indoor unit 220 (step S303).

[0107] For example, suppose that the terminal device 400 receives a command from a user to set a group for the second outdoor unit 310. The command to set a group for the second outdoor unit 310 includes the third network address “2.1” of the second outdoor unit 310 as a destination. The terminal device 400 determines that the destination third network address “2.1” is not its own network address, and transmits the command to the first indoor unit 220.

[0108] Next, the first indoor unit 220 judges whether the destination of the received command is its own network address (step S304), and if it is judged that the destination of the received command is not its own network address, it transmits the command to the first outdoor unit 210 (step S305). Furthermore, the first outdoor unit 210 judges whether the destination of the received command is its own network address (step S306), and if it is judged that the destination of the received command is not its own network address, it transmits the command to the air conditioning control device 100 (step S307). Then, the air conditioning control device 100 judges whether the destination of the received command is its own network address (step S308), and if it is judged that the destination of the received command is not its own network address, it transmits the command to the second outdoor unit 310 (step S309). The second outdoor unit 310 judges whether the destination is its own network address (step S310), and if it is judged that it is its own network address, it executes the processing of the command (step S311).

[0109] For example, the first indoor unit 220 determines that the destination third network address "2.1" is not its own network address and transmits a command to the first outdoor unit 210. The first outdoor unit 210 also determines that the destination third network address "2.1" is not its own network address and transmits a command to the air conditioning control device 100. The air conditioning control device 100 determines that the destination third network address "2.1" is not its own network address and transmits a command to the second outdoor unit 310. The second outdoor unit 310 then determines that the destination third network address "2.1" is its own network address and performs group setting in accordance with the command.

[0110] According to this embodiment, in an air conditioning system in which air conditioners, air conditioning control devices, and terminal devices are connected in a ring shape, local communication between the devices can be used to set unique network addresses to be used for communication within the air conditioning system for all devices included in the air conditioning system.

[0111] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, in an air conditioning system, even if it is not necessary to know the network addresses of devices other than those connected for local communication, all devices are assigned unique network addresses used for communication within the air conditioning system, thereby eliminating the need for mutual communication to know the network addresses of each device.

[0112] For example, in an air conditioning system, when a single local network is formed and a new local network having a different protocol from the existing local network is to be connected to this, unnecessary requests are sent to many devices to set the network addresses, causing a problem of traffic congestion. However, according to this embodiment, mutual communication for grasping the network addresses of each device can be omitted except for adjacent devices connected for local communication, so that the problem of traffic congestion can be avoided.

[0113] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, each device included in the air conditioning system stores only its own network address, and does not store the network addresses of other devices, enabling communication between the devices in the air conditioning system. Generally, the more devices connected to a network, the more storage capacity for network addresses is required, but according to this embodiment, the storage capacity for storing network addresses can be reduced.

[0114] (Embodiment 2) The air conditioning system according to the second embodiment is a system that stores the network addresses of devices other than itself in order to use the optimal communication path.

[0115] 8, the air conditioning system 1000 of the second embodiment includes an air conditioning control device 100, a first air conditioner 200, a second air conditioner 300, and a terminal device 400. Functions that differ from the functions of the air conditioning system 1000 of the first embodiment will be described below.

[0116] In the air conditioning system 1000 of the second embodiment, when an optimal communication path exists among a plurality of communication paths, the devices included in the air conditioning system 1000 store not only their own network addresses but also the network addresses of the other devices.

[0117] Here, the optimal communication path refers to a communication path with, for example, a small number of hops, a short residence time on the communication path, a low bandwidth usage rate, etc. The optimal communication path in the air conditioning system 1000 is determined by the provider of the air conditioning system 1000. For example, in the air conditioning system 1000, if a communication path with a high line speed exists, the provider determines that communication path as a path with a short residence time. In addition, in the case where a communication path with few commands communicated in the protocol or with a low frequency of regular communication exists, the provider determines that communication path as a path with a short bandwidth usage rate.

[0118] For example, in the case of the air conditioning system 1000 of Fig. 8, when the terminal device 400 transmits a command to the second outdoor unit 310, the terminal device 400 can transmit the command with a smaller number of hops by transmitting the command to the second indoor unit 320 rather than to the first indoor unit 220 as in embodiment 1. Thus, the terminal device 400 acquires the network address of the indoor unit connected to itself, and when transmitting a command to a device connected to the fourth network 4, it determines the second indoor unit 320 as the transmission destination, and when transmitting a command to another device, it determines the first indoor unit 220 as the transmission destination.

[0119] The fourth generation unit 401 of the terminal device 400 acquires a fifth network address from the first indoor unit 220, and acquires a sixth network address from the second indoor unit 320.

[0120] For example, when a local communication connection of the second network 2 is established, the fourth generation unit 401 transmits a network address notification request to the first indoor unit 220 and the second indoor unit 320. Then, the fourth generation unit 401 receives a response including information on the fifth network address “1.2” from the first indoor unit 220, and receives a response including information on the sixth network address “2.2” from the second indoor unit 320.

[0121] The fourth storage unit 402 of the terminal device 400 stores a fourth network address, a fifth network address, and a sixth network address.

[0122] For example, the fourth memory unit 402 stores the fourth network address “1.3” as the network address of the terminal device 400, the fifth network address “1.2” as the network address of the first indoor unit 220, and the sixth network address “2.2” as the network address of the second indoor unit 320.

[0123] When the terminal device 400 receives a command addressed to a network address other than the fourth network address, it identifies a network address that has as its most significant digit the value of the most significant digit of the network address of the command destination, from among the network addresses stored in the fourth storage unit 402. If the identified network address is the fifth network address, the terminal device 400 transmits the received command to the first indoor unit 220. If the identified network address is the sixth network address, the terminal device 400 transmits the received command to the second indoor unit 320.

[0124] For example, when the terminal device 400 receives a command addressed to the third network address “2.1” of the second outdoor unit 310, since the most significant digit of the third network address is “2”, it identifies the second indoor unit 320 as the destination and transmits the command to the second indoor unit 320. The second indoor unit 320 then transfers to the second outdoor unit 310 the command transmitted from the terminal device 400 addressed to a network address other than the sixth network address “2.2”.

[0125] When the terminal device 400 receives a command addressed to the sixth network address “2.2” of the second indoor unit 320, it similarly identifies the second indoor unit 320 as the destination and transmits the command to the second indoor unit 320.

[0126] On the other hand, if the destination of the command does not correspond to the fourth network address “1.3” and the most significant digit of the network address of the destination of the command is other than “2”, the terminal device 400 transmits the command to the first indoor unit 220.

[0127] Next, Fig. 9 shows an example of a command transmission destination determination process executed in the air conditioning system 1000 after network addresses have been set for devices included in the air conditioning system 1000. Fig. 9 shows a case where the terminal device 400 receives a command for the second outdoor unit 310.

[0128] When the terminal device 400 receives a command for the second outdoor unit 310 from the user (step S401), it determines a destination of the command from the network address of the destination of the received command (step S402). Then, the terminal device 400 transmits the command to the determined destination device (step S403).

[0129] For example, suppose that the terminal device 400 receives a command from a user to set a group for the second outdoor unit 310. The command to set a group for the second outdoor unit 310 includes the third network address "2.1" of the second outdoor unit 310 as the destination. The terminal device 400 searches for network addresses stored in the fourth storage unit 402 that have a value of "2" in the most significant digit, and identifies the sixth network address "2.2". The terminal device 400 then transmits the command to the second indoor unit 320 with the sixth network address "2.2".

[0130] Next, the second indoor unit 320 judges whether the address of the received command is its own network address (step S404), and if it is determined that the address of the received command is not its own network address, it transmits the command to the second outdoor unit 310 (step S405). Then, the second outdoor unit 310 judges whether the address is its own network address (step S406), and if it is determined that it is its own network address, it executes processing of the command (step S407).

[0131] For example, the second indoor unit 320 determines that the destination third network address "2.1" is not its own network address, and transmits a command to the second outdoor unit 310. The second outdoor unit 310 then determines that the destination third network address "2.1" of the received command is its own network address, and performs group setting in accordance with the command.

[0132] According to this embodiment, by having only its own network address and the network addresses of other devices necessary to use the optimal communication path, it is possible to perform communication via the optimal communication path without having all the network addresses in the air conditioning system. This makes it possible to reduce the time spent on the communication path, making it possible to transmit quickly and reduce the bandwidth usage rate.

[0133] (Modification) Although the embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above, various modifications and applications are possible in implementing the present disclosure.

[0134] In the above embodiment 1, address setting in a configuration in which the first outdoor unit 210 and the first indoor unit 220 are communicatively connected via the third network 3, and the second outdoor unit 310 and the second indoor unit 320 are communicatively connected via the fourth network 4 has been described, but this address setting method is applicable to other configurations.

[0135] For example, it is also applicable to a configuration in which the first outdoor unit 210 and the first indoor unit 220 are regarded as one device, and the second outdoor unit 310 and the second indoor unit 320 are regarded as one device. That is, in the air conditioning system 1, the first air conditioner 200 and the second air conditioner 300 communicate with the air conditioning control device 100 using a first communication method, and the first air conditioner 200 and the second air conditioner 300 communicate with the terminal device 400 using a second communication method. The first communication method is a communication method different from the second communication method.

[0136] In such an air conditioning system 1000, the air conditioning control device 100 is equipped with a first generation unit that generates a first network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system 1000, based on a first address of the air conditioning control device 100 used for communication by a first communication method and a predetermined first rule, and sets the first network address to the air conditioning control device 100, and a first memory unit that stores the first network address.

[0137] The first air conditioner 200 also has a second generation unit that generates a second network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system 1000, based on the second address of the first air conditioner 200 used for communication by the first communication method and the first rule, and sets the second network address to the first air conditioner 200, and a second memory unit that stores the second network address.

[0138] The second air conditioner 300 also has a third generation unit that generates a third network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system 1000, based on the third address of the second air conditioner 300 used for communication by the first communication method and the first rule, and sets the third network address to the second air conditioner 300, and a third memory unit that stores the third network address.

[0139] The terminal device 400 also includes a fourth generation unit that generates a fourth network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system 1000, based on a fourth address of the terminal device 400 used for communication by the second communication method and a predetermined second rule, and sets the fourth network address to the terminal device 400, and a fourth memory unit that stores the fourth network address.

[0140] Here, the second rule is a rule that the fourth network address is generated by using the value of the most significant digits of the second network address as the most significant digits of the network address and using the fourth address as the least significant digits.

[0141] The air conditioning control device 100 then transfers commands sent from the first air conditioner 200 to a network address other than the first network address, to the second air conditioner 300. The first air conditioner 200 also transfers commands sent from the air conditioning control device 100 to a network address other than the second network address, to the terminal device 400, and transfers commands sent from the terminal device 400 to a network address other than the second network address, to the air conditioning control device 100. The second air conditioner 300 also transfers commands sent from the air conditioning control device 100 to a network address other than the third network address, to the terminal device 400. The terminal device 400 also transfers commands received to a network address other than the fourth network address, to the first air conditioner 200.

[0142] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment 1 and embodiment 2, the air conditioning system 1 includes two air conditioners, but is not limited to this. The air conditioning system 1 may include three or more air conditioners, so long as the air conditioners communicate with the air conditioning control device 100 via the first network 1 and communicate with the terminal device 400 via the second network 2, and a ring structure is formed in the air conditioning system 1.

[0143] In addition, in the above-mentioned first embodiment, the second generation unit 211 of the first outdoor unit 210 generates and sets the second network address of the first outdoor unit 210, and the third generation unit 311 of the second outdoor unit 310 generates and sets the third network address of the second outdoor unit 310, but this is not limited to the above. For example, the first generation unit 101 of the air conditioning control device 100 may generate a second network address and notify the first outdoor unit 210 of the generated second network address to set it therein, and the first generation unit 101 of the air conditioning control device 100 may generate a third network address and notify the second outdoor unit 310 of the generated third network address to set it therein.

[0144] In addition, in the above-mentioned first embodiment, the fifth generation unit 221 of the first indoor unit 220 generates and sets the fifth network address of the first indoor unit 220, and the sixth generation unit 321 of the second indoor unit 320 generates and sets the sixth network address of the second indoor unit 320, but this is not limited to the above. For example, the second generation unit 211 of the first outdoor unit 210 may generate a fifth network address and notify the first indoor unit 220 of the generated fifth network address to set it therein, and the third generation unit 311 of the second outdoor unit 310 may generate a sixth network address and notify the second indoor unit 320 of the generated sixth network address to set it therein.

[0145] In the above embodiment 1, the terminal device 400 recognizes the indoor unit that supplies power to the terminal device 400 as the master indoor unit, but this is not limited to the above. The terminal device 400 may regard the indoor unit that has the smallest address value used for communication by the second communication method among the indoor units connected to the second network 2 as the master indoor unit.

[0146] In addition, in the above-mentioned second embodiment, the network addresses of the first indoor unit 220 and the second indoor unit 320 connected to the local network are stored, but this is not limited to this. If necessary to use the optimal communication path, the network addresses of devices other than the devices to be included in the local network may be obtained and stored.

[0147] In addition, by applying an operating program that specifies the operation of the devices included in the air conditioning system 1000 of the above embodiment to an existing personal computer or information terminal device, it is also possible to cause the personal computer or information terminal device to function as a device included in the air conditioning system 1000 of the embodiment.

[0148] Furthermore, the method of distribution of such a program is arbitrary; for example, the program may be stored on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read-Only Memory), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), or a memory card and distributed, or the program may be distributed via a communications network such as the Internet.

[0149] Various embodiments and modifications of the present disclosure are possible without departing from the broad spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The above-described embodiments are for explaining the present disclosure and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. In other words, the scope of the present disclosure is indicated by the claims, not the embodiments. Various modifications made within the scope of the claims and the scope of the disclosure equivalent thereto are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure. [Industrial Applicability]

[0150] The present disclosure can provide an air conditioning system and an address setting method that can set a unique network address to be used for communication within an air conditioning system in an air conditioning system in which air conditioners, air conditioning control devices, and terminal devices are connected in a ring configuration. [Explanation of symbols]

[0151] 1 1st network, 2 2nd network, 3 3rd network, 4 4th network, 11, 21 processor, 12, 22 main memory unit, 13, 23 auxiliary memory unit, 14 input unit, 15 output unit, 16 communication unit, 17, 26 bus, 24 1st notification unit, 25 2nd communication unit, 100 air conditioning control device, 101 1st generation unit, 102 1st memory unit, 200 1st air conditioner, 210 1st outdoor unit, 211 2nd generation unit, 212 2nd memory unit, 220 1st indoor unit, 221 5th generation unit, 222 5th memory unit, 300 2nd air conditioner, 310 2nd outdoor unit, 311 3rd generation unit, 312 3rd memory unit, 320 2nd indoor unit, 321 6th generation unit, 322 6th memory unit, 400 terminal device, 401 4th generation unit, 402 4th memory unit, 1000 air conditioning system.

Claims

1. An air conditioning system in which a first air conditioner, a second air conditioner, an air conditioning control device that controls the first air conditioner and the second air conditioner, and a terminal device that accepts operation inputs for the first air conditioner and the second air conditioner are connected in a ring shape, the first air conditioner and the second air conditioner communicate with the air conditioning control device using a first communication method, and the first air conditioner and the second air conditioner communicate with the terminal device using a second communication method, a first generation means for generating a first network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system, based on a first address of the air conditioning control device used for communication by the first communication method and a first predetermined rule, and setting the first network address in the air conditioning control device; a second generation means for generating a second network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system, based on a second address of the first air conditioner used for communication by the first communication method and the first rule, and setting the second network address in the first air conditioner; a third generation means for generating a third network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system, based on a third address of the second air conditioner used for communication by the first communication method and the first rule, and setting the third network address in the second air conditioner; a fourth generation means for generating a fourth network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system, based on a fourth address of the terminal device used for communication by the second communication method and a second predetermined rule, and setting the fourth network address in the terminal device; The air conditioning control device transfers a command transmitted from the first air conditioner to the second air conditioner, the command being addressed to a network address other than the first network address; The first air conditioner transfers a command transmitted from the air conditioning control device to a network address other than the second network address, to the terminal device, and transfers a command transmitted from the terminal device to a network address other than the second network address, to the air conditioning control device; The second air conditioner transfers a command transmitted from the air conditioning control device to the terminal device, the command being addressed to a network address other than the third network address; The terminal device transfers a command received with a network address other than the fourth network address as a destination to the first air conditioner. Air conditioning system.

2. the first air conditioner has a first outdoor unit that communicates with the air conditioning control device using the first communication method, and a first indoor unit that communicates with the first outdoor unit using a third communication method and communicates with the terminal device using the second communication method; the second air conditioner has a second outdoor unit that communicates with the air conditioning control device using the first communication method, and a second indoor unit that communicates with the second outdoor unit using a fourth communication method and communicates with the terminal device using the second communication method; the second address is an address assigned to the first outdoor unit, the third address is an address assigned to the second outdoor unit, The second generation means sets the second network address in the first outdoor unit, The third generation means sets the third network address in the second outdoor unit, The air conditioning system includes: a fifth generation means for generating a fifth network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system, based on a fifth address of the first indoor unit used for communication by the third communication method and a third predetermined rule, and setting the fifth network address in the first indoor unit; a sixth generation means for generating a sixth network address that is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system based on a sixth address of the second indoor unit used for communication by the fourth communication method and a fourth predetermined rule, and setting the sixth network address in the second indoor unit; the air conditioning control device transfers a command transmitted from the first outdoor unit to a network address other than the first network address, to the second outdoor unit; the first outdoor unit transfers a command transmitted from the air conditioning control device to a network address other than the second network address, to the first indoor unit, and transfers a command transmitted from the first indoor unit to the air conditioning control device to a network address other than the second network address, The second outdoor unit transfers a command transmitted from the air conditioning control device to the second indoor unit, the command being addressed to a network address other than the third network address; the first indoor unit transfers a command transmitted from the first outdoor unit to a network address other than the fifth network address, to the terminal device, and transfers a command transmitted from the terminal device to the first outdoor unit to a network address other than the fifth network address, the second indoor unit transfers a command transmitted from the second outdoor unit to the terminal device with a network address other than the sixth network address as a destination; the terminal device transfers a command received with a network address other than the fourth network address as a destination to the first indoor unit.

2. The air conditioning system of claim 1.

3. the first rule is a rule that a network address is generated by using an address used in communication by the first communication method as upper digits of the network address and using a predetermined value as lower digits of the network address, the second rule is a rule that the fourth network address is generated by using a value of a most significant digit of the second network address as a most significant digit of a network address and using the fourth address as a least significant digit of the network address.

2. The air conditioning system of claim 1.

4. the first rule is a rule that a network address is generated by using an address used in communication by the first communication method as upper digits of the network address and using a predetermined value as lower digits of the network address, the second rule is a rule that the fourth network address is generated by using a value of a most significant digit of the fifth network address as a most significant digit of a network address and using the fourth address as a least significant digit of the network address; the third rule is a rule that the fifth network address is generated by using a value of the most significant digit of the second network address as the most significant digit of the network address and using a value obtained by performing a predetermined arithmetic process on the fifth address as the least significant digit of the network address, The fourth rule is a rule that the sixth network address is generated by using a value of the most significant digit of the third network address as the most significant digit of the network address and using a value obtained by performing the arithmetic processing on the sixth address as the least significant digit of the network address.

3. An air conditioning system according to claim 2.

5. The air conditioning control device includes a first storage means for storing the first network address, The first air conditioner includes a second storage means for storing the second network address, The second air conditioner includes a third storage means for storing the third network address, the terminal device includes a fourth storage means for storing the fourth network address; 4. An air conditioning system according to claim 1 or 3.

6. The air conditioning control device includes a first storage means for storing the first network address, the first outdoor unit includes a second storage means for storing the second network address, the second outdoor unit includes a third storage means for storing the third network address, the terminal device includes a fourth storage means for storing the fourth network address; The first indoor unit includes a fifth storage means for storing the fifth network address; The second indoor unit includes a sixth storage means for storing the sixth network address.

5. An air conditioning system according to claim 2 or 4.

7. The fourth generation means acquires the fifth network address from the first indoor unit and acquires the sixth network address from the second indoor unit; the fourth storage means stores the fifth network address and the sixth network address; The terminal device when a command addressed to a network address other than the fourth network address is received, a network address having as its most significant digit the most significant digit of the network address of the destination of the command is identified from among the network addresses stored in the fourth storage means; If the identified network address is the fifth network address, the received command is transmitted to the first indoor unit; If the identified network address is the sixth network address, the received command is transmitted to the second indoor unit.

7. An air conditioning system according to claim 6.

8. The first communication method is a communication method different from the second communication method.

4. An air conditioning system according to claim 1 or 3.

9. At least one of the first communication method, the second communication method, the third communication method, and the fourth communication method is a communication method different from the other communication methods.

5. An air conditioning system according to claim 2 or 4.

10. An air conditioning system in which a first air conditioner, a second air conditioner, an air conditioning control device that controls the first air conditioner and the second air conditioner, and a terminal device that accepts operation inputs for the first air conditioner and the second air conditioner are connected in a ring shape, the first air conditioner and the second air conditioner communicate with the air conditioning control device using a first communication method, and the first air conditioner and the second air conditioner communicate with the terminal device using a second communication method, a first generation means generates a first network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system, based on a first address of the air conditioning control device used for communication by the first communication method and a first predetermined rule, and sets the first network address in the air conditioning control device; a second generation means generates a second network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system, based on a second address of the first air conditioner used for communication by the first communication method and the first rule, and sets the second network address to the first air conditioner; a third generation means generates a third network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system, based on a third address of the second air conditioner used for communication by the first communication method and the first rule, and sets the third network address to the second air conditioner; a fourth generation means generates a fourth network address, which is a unique network address used for communication within the air conditioning system, based on a fourth address of the terminal device used for communication by the second communication method and a second predetermined rule, and sets the fourth network address in the terminal device; How to set the address.

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