Air conditioner support system

Abstract

To provide a support system for supporting use of an air conditioner so as to secure remaining service life.SOLUTION: A support system for an air conditioner includes a management device that manages the air conditioner. When predicting that a result prediction remaining value of the air conditioner after use for a set period on the basis of a result of the air conditioner is deviated from an initial prediction remaining value of the air conditioner after use for the set period predicted before use, a processing section of the management device executes at least one of outputting deviation information or signal related to the deviation to a predetermined device and changing a control set variable of the air conditioner on the basis of the deviation information so as to suppress the deviation after use for the set period.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a support system for an air conditioner. [Background technology]

[0002] For used equipment, the remaining lifespan of the equipment may be estimated. Knowing the lifespan of the used equipment allows you to place a value on the used equipment. Regarding a system for calculating the residual value of equipment, the technology described in Patent Document 1 is known. The technology described in Patent Document 1 calculates the residual value of a car. In this technology, the lease residual value is calculated based on the vehicle mileage, maintenance and modification record information, etc. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-141600 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Incidentally, there are cases where it is desired to estimate the remaining life of a reused air conditioner after rental. In this embodiment, the remaining life of an air conditioner is defined as the length of time during which the air conditioner can be used when operating in normal use. For example, there are cases where it is desired to estimate the remaining life of an air conditioner rented by lease or subscription after rental. In addition, there are cases where it is desired to know the remaining life of a sold air conditioner when purchasing the air conditioner after use. However, even if the air conditioner has the same rental period, the remaining life of the air conditioner after rental may differ significantly, making it difficult to estimate the remaining life of the air conditioner. Therefore, as a reference and as an object of disclosure, a residual value calculation system capable of accurately calculating the remaining life of an air conditioner is provided.

[0005] The operation of air conditioners is left to the discretion of the user. Air conditioners may be reused, in which case the length of the air conditioner's remaining life becomes an issue. When air conditioners are reused, it is preferable that a certain degree of remaining life is ensured for the air conditioner. Since the remaining life of an air conditioner varies depending on how the user uses it, it is difficult to set in advance the remaining life of an air conditioner after use. Therefore, as an object of the first disclosure, there is provided a support system that supports the use of air conditioners so as to ensure the remaining life. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] (1) A residual value calculation system that solves the above-mentioned problems is an air conditioner residual value calculation system that includes a management device that manages an air conditioner including an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, the management device including an acquisition unit that acquires first environmental information regarding the installation environment of the indoor unit and second environmental information regarding the installation environment of the outdoor unit, and a calculation unit that calculates at least one of an initial predicted residual value and an actual predicted residual value based on actual results regarding the residual value after a set period of use based on the first environmental information and the second environmental information.

[0007] The indoor unit and outdoor unit of an air conditioner are placed in different environments. For example, the indoor unit is placed in various environments such as an office, a restaurant, a sports gym, etc. The outdoor unit is placed outdoors. The outdoor environment varies depending on the region where the air conditioner is installed. In this way, the environment of the indoor unit is different from the environment of the outdoor unit, and both environments are diverse. In this regard, according to the above configuration, the residual value is calculated based on first environmental information related to the installation environment of the indoor unit and second environmental information related to the installation environment of the outdoor unit, and the influence of the environment is reflected in the calculation of the residual value, so that the residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0008] (2) In the residual value calculation system described above, the air conditioner is a rented air conditioner. With this configuration, the residual value of the rented air conditioner can be accurately calculated.

[0009] (3) In the above residual value calculation system, the air conditioner includes at least one indoor unit and at least one outdoor unit, the acquisition unit acquires the contribution rate of the indoor unit and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit to the air conditioner, and the calculation unit calculates the residual value after the set period of use for each indoor unit based on at least the first environmental information, calculates the residual value after the set period of use for each outdoor unit based on at least the second environmental information, and calculates the residual value of the air conditioner based on the contribution rate of the indoor unit, the contribution rate of the outdoor unit, the residual value of the indoor unit, and the residual value of the outdoor unit.

[0010] According to this configuration, for a system including multiple indoor units and multiple outdoor units, the contribution rate of the indoor units and the contribution rate of the outdoor units in the air conditioner are reflected in the calculation of the residual value, so that the residual value of the air conditioner can be accurately calculated.

[0011] (4) In the above-mentioned residual value calculation system, the calculation unit at least one of calculates the residual value of the indoor unit after a set period of use based on the residual value of each part of the indoor unit after the set period of use and the contribution rate of the part to the indoor unit, and calculates the residual value of the outdoor unit after a set period of use based on the residual value of each part of the outdoor unit after the set period of use and the contribution rate of the part to the outdoor unit.

[0012] According to this configuration, the residual value of each part and the contribution rate of each part in the indoor unit are reflected in the calculation of the residual value of the indoor unit. Also, the residual value of each part and the contribution rate of each part in the outdoor unit are reflected in the calculation of the residual value of the outdoor unit. This allows the residual value of the air conditioner to be calculated accurately.

[0013] (5) In the above-mentioned residual value calculation system, the acquisition unit further acquires durability information of each part that constitutes the indoor unit and durability information of each part that constitutes the outdoor unit, and the calculation unit calculates the residual value for each part of the indoor unit after a set period of use based on at least the durability information of each part of the indoor unit and the first environmental information, and calculates the residual value for each part of the outdoor unit after a set period of use based on at least the durability information of each part of the outdoor unit and the second environmental information, and the calculation unit further corrects the durability information of each part of the indoor unit with a correction coefficient based on at least one of the first environmental information, installation conditions, operating information, and maintenance information, and corrects the durability information of each part of the outdoor unit with a correction coefficient based on at least one of the second environmental information, installation conditions, operating information, and maintenance information.

[0014] According to this configuration, the calculation of the residual value of each component of the indoor unit reflects the durability information of each component and the first environmental information. Furthermore, the calculation of the residual value of each component of the outdoor unit reflects the durability information of each component and the second environmental information. Furthermore, the durability information of each component of the indoor unit is corrected by a correction coefficient based on at least one of the first environmental information, installation conditions, operation information, and maintenance information. The durability information of each component of the outdoor unit is corrected by a correction coefficient based on at least one of the second environmental information, installation conditions, operation information, and maintenance information. In this way, the durability information is corrected by environmental information, etc., so that the residual value of the air conditioner can be calculated accurately.

[0015] (6) In the residual value calculation system, the correction coefficient is a value learned by machine learning. According to this configuration, the correction coefficient is optimized by machine learning, which makes it possible to accurately calculate the residual value of the air conditioner.

[0016] (7) In the above-mentioned residual value calculation system, when calculating, before use, an initial predicted residual value for each component of the indoor unit after a set period of use and an initial predicted residual value for each component of the outdoor unit after a set period of use, the calculation unit uses initial first environmental information, initial second environmental information, initial installation conditions, planned operating information, and planned maintenance information, and when calculating, during the usage period, an actual predicted residual value for each component of the indoor unit after a set period of use and an actual predicted residual value for each component of the outdoor unit after a set period of use, the calculation unit uses actual first environmental information, actual second environmental information, actual installation conditions, actual operating information, and actual maintenance information.

[0017] According to this configuration, the following effects (a) and (b) can be obtained. (a) The initial predicted residual value of each component of the indoor unit and each component of the outdoor unit is calculated using the initial first environmental information, the initial second environmental information, the initial installation conditions, the planned operating information, and the planned maintenance information, so that the initial predicted residual value of each component can be accurately calculated. (b) The actual first environmental information, the actual second environmental information, the actual installation conditions, the actual operating information, and the actual maintenance information are used to calculate the actual predicted residual value of each component of the indoor unit and each component of the outdoor unit, so that the actual predicted residual value of each component can be accurately calculated.

[0018] (8) A support system that solves the above problem is an air conditioner support system that includes a management device that manages the air conditioner, and the management device includes a processing unit, and when the processing unit predicts that the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner after a set period of use based on the air conditioner's performance will deviate from the initially predicted residual value of the air conditioner after the set period of use predicted before use, it performs at least one of the following: outputting deviation information or a signal regarding the deviation to a specified device; and changing the control setting variables of the air conditioner based on the deviation information so that the deviation after the set period of use is suppressed.

[0019] According to this configuration, when it is predicted that the actual forecast residual value will deviate from the initial forecast residual value, a predetermined process is performed, so that the actual forecast residual value can be prevented from deviating from the initial forecast residual value.

[0020] (9) In the above support system, the control setting variables include at least one of the operation mode of the air conditioner, the room temperature setting, the setting state of a thermostat, the air volume of the indoor unit, the air direction of the indoor unit, the start / stop times of the air conditioner, the evaporation temperature, the condensation temperature, and the capacity values ​​of the operating components that make up the air conditioner. With this configuration, the operation of the air conditioner can be changed by at least one of these control setting variables.

[0021] (10) In the above support system, the processing unit compares the initial predicted residual value with the actual predicted residual value, and executes at least one of the following: (a) when the actual predicted residual value is predicted to be smaller than the initial predicted residual value, notifies the specified device of first recommendation information that prompts a change in a control setting variable of the air conditioner based on the actual results; (b) when the actual predicted residual value is predicted to be smaller than the initial predicted residual value, notifies the specified device of second recommendation information that prompts maintenance work based on the actual results; (c) depending on the result of the comparison between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value, notifies the specified terminal of recommended operation information that prompts the operation of multiple indoor units in descending order of residual values ​​based on the actual results; and (d) depending on the result of the comparison between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value, identifies from the actual results which items of the indoor unit operating conditions and the outdoor unit operating conditions were operated under conditions different from the initial operating conditions, and notifies the specified terminal of the identified items.

[0022] This configuration can provide at least one of the following effects (a) to (d): (a) Since the possibility that the control setting variables will be changed is increased, it is possible to prevent the actual forecast residual value from deviating from the initial forecast residual value. (b) Since the possibility that maintenance work on the air conditioner will be performed is increased, it is possible to prevent the actual forecast residual value from deviating from the initial forecast residual value. (c) By informing the user of the priority order of use of the indoor units, it is possible to level out the residual values ​​for multiple indoor units. (d) By informing the user that past operation has deviated from the initial operating conditions, a review of operation is encouraged, so it is possible to prevent the actual forecast residual value from deviating from the initial forecast residual value.

[0023] (11) In the above support system, the air conditioner includes a plurality of indoor units and a plurality of outdoor units, and the processing unit compares the initial predicted residual value with the actual predicted residual value for the air conditioner, and executes at least one of the following: (a) depending on the result of the comparison between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value, operate the indoor units in order of highest residual value based on the actual performance of the multiple indoor units, and (b) depending on the result of the comparison between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value, operate the outdoor units in order of highest residual value based on the actual performance of the multiple outdoor units.

[0024] This configuration can provide at least one of the following effects (a) and (b). (a) The residual values ​​of multiple indoor units can be equalized. By equalizing the residual values ​​of multiple indoor units, it is possible to prevent the residual value of a specific indoor unit from deviating from the initially predicted residual value. (b) The residual values ​​of multiple outdoor units can be equalized. By equalizing the residual values ​​of multiple outdoor units, it is possible to prevent the residual value of a specific outdoor unit from deviating from the initially predicted residual value.

[0025] (12) In the above support system, the air conditioner includes a plurality of indoor units and a plurality of outdoor units, and the processing unit compares the initial predicted residual value with the actual predicted residual value for the air conditioner, and performs at least one of the following: (a) operating each indoor unit so that the residual values ​​of the multiple indoor units are equal depending on the result of the comparison between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value; and (b) operating each outdoor unit so that the residual values ​​of the multiple outdoor units are equal depending on the result of the comparison between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value.

[0026] This configuration can provide at least one of the following effects (a) and (b). (a) The residual values ​​of multiple indoor units can be equalized. By equalizing the residual values ​​of multiple indoor units, the residual value of a specific indoor unit can be prevented from deviating significantly from the initially predicted residual value. (b) The residual values ​​of multiple outdoor units can be equalized. By equalizing the residual values ​​of multiple outdoor units, the residual value of a specific outdoor unit can be prevented from deviating significantly from the initially predicted residual value.

[0027] (13) In the above support system, the processing unit compares the initial forecast residual value with the actual forecast residual value for the air conditioner, and estimates a factor of the deviation between the initial forecast residual value and the actual forecast residual value based on a deviation between the plan and the actual value in at least one of environmental information, installation conditions, operation information, and maintenance information. With this configuration, it is possible to provide the factor of the deviation between the initial forecast residual value and the actual forecast residual value. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a lease residual value calculation system according to a first embodiment of the residual value calculation system. [Diagram 2] Schematic diagram of an air conditioner. [Diagram 3] A chart summarizing the values ​​used to calculate the residual value of an outdoor unit. [Figure 4] A diagram summarizing the values ​​used to calculate the residual value of indoor units. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a method for calculating the residual value of an air conditioner. [Figure 6] A diagram showing maintenance ratios. [Figure 7] 13 is a diagram showing the relationship between second environmental information, part durability information, and part residual value. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing part residual values ​​and contribution rates for each part. [Figure 9] 11 is a diagram showing the contribution rates of indoor units and outdoor units for an air conditioner including multiple indoor units. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a leasing support system according to a first embodiment of the support system. [Figure 11] Schematic diagram of an air conditioner. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a diagram summarizing the contents of the first process and the second process. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a first method for predicting the deviation between an initial forecast residual value and an actual forecast residual value. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a second method for predicting the deviation between the initial forecast residual value and the actual forecast residual value. [Figure 15] A chart summarizing the values ​​used to calculate the residual value of an outdoor unit. [Figure 16] A diagram summarizing the values ​​used to calculate the residual value of indoor units. [Figure 17] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a method for calculating the residual value of an air conditioner. [Figure 18] A diagram showing maintenance ratios. [Figure 19] 13 is a diagram showing the relationship between second environmental information, part durability information, and part residual value. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing part residual values ​​and contribution rates for each part. [Figure 21] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a leasing support system according to a second embodiment of the support system. [Figure 22] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the relationship between the difference in residual value and the priority order for each indoor unit. [Diagram 23] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a leasing support system according to a third embodiment of the support system. [Figure 24] 13 is a diagram showing the relationship between the difference in residual value and priority for each outdoor unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0029] <Residual value calculation system> The residual value calculation system calculates the residual value of an air conditioner. For example, the residual value calculation system calculates the residual value of an air conditioner to be rented out based on a preset usage environment and usage conditions. Calculating the residual value includes calculating the residual value after a set period of use before the air conditioner is rented out, and calculating the residual value at the end of the period of use while the air conditioner is rented out. Examples of methods for renting out air conditioners include leasing and subscription. Below, a lease residual value calculation system for an air conditioner to be rented out on lease will be described as an example of a residual value calculation system. In the embodiment described below, the set period corresponds to the lease period. After the set period of use corresponds to the expiration of the lease.

[0030] The technology described in Patent Document 1 (JP Patent Publication No. 2015-141600) is known as a technology related to a lease residual value calculation system. In the technology described in Patent Document 1, a lease residual value is calculated based on vehicle mileage, maintenance and correction record information, etc. However, the residual value of an air conditioner after use may differ even if it has been used for the same period of time. Therefore, it is preferable to be able to accurately calculate the residual value of an air conditioner. An outline of the lease residual value calculation system is described below.

[0031] A lease residual value calculation system for an air conditioner includes a management device that manages an air conditioner including an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, and the management device includes an acquisition unit that acquires first environmental information regarding the installation environment of the indoor unit and second environmental information regarding the installation environment of the outdoor unit, and a calculation unit that calculates the residual value at the time of lease expiration based on the first environmental information and the second environmental information.

[0032] The indoor unit and outdoor unit of an air conditioner are placed in different environments. For example, the indoor unit is placed in various environments such as an office, a restaurant, a sports gym, etc. The outdoor unit is placed outdoors. The outdoor environment varies depending on the region where the air conditioner is installed. In this way, the environment of the indoor unit is different from the environment of the outdoor unit, and both environments are diverse. In this regard, according to the above configuration, the residual value is calculated based on first environmental information related to the installation environment of the indoor unit and second environmental information related to the installation environment of the outdoor unit, and the influence of the environment is reflected in the calculation of the residual value, so that the residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0033] In the above lease residual value calculation system, the acquisition unit further acquires the operating conditions of the indoor unit and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit at the start of the lease, and the calculation unit calculates an initially predicted residual value at the end of the lease as the initially predicted residual value based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the operating conditions of the indoor unit at the start of the lease, and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit at the start of the lease.

[0034] According to this configuration, the initially predicted residual value is calculated based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the operating conditions of the indoor unit, and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit, so that the initially predicted residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0035] In the above lease residual value calculation system, the acquisition unit further acquires planned maintenance information of the air conditioner regarding maintenance scheduled to be performed during the lease period, and the calculation unit calculates an initial predicted residual value of the air conditioner at the end of the lease based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the operating conditions of the indoor unit at the start of the lease, the operating conditions of the outdoor unit at the start of the lease, and the scheduled maintenance information.

[0036] According to this configuration, the initially estimated residual value is further calculated based on the scheduled maintenance information, so that the initially estimated residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0037] In the above lease residual value calculation system, the acquisition unit further acquires durability information of each component that constitutes the indoor unit and durability information of each component that constitutes the outdoor unit, and the calculation unit calculates the residual value of the indoor unit based on at least the durability information of each component of the indoor unit, the first environmental information, and the operating conditions of the indoor unit at the start of the lease, calculates the residual value of the outdoor unit based on at least the durability information of each component of the outdoor unit, the second environmental information, and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit at the start of the lease, and calculates the initial predicted residual value at the end of the lease based on the residual value of the indoor unit and the residual value of the outdoor unit.

[0038] According to this configuration, the durability information is further reflected in the calculation of the initially predicted residual value, so that the initially predicted residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0039] In the above lease residual value calculation system, the acquisition unit further acquires durability information of each component of the indoor unit and durability information of each component of the outdoor unit, and the calculation unit calculates the residual value of the indoor unit based on at least the durability information of each component of the indoor unit, the first environmental information, the operating conditions of the indoor unit at the start of the lease, and the scheduled maintenance information of the indoor unit, calculates the residual value of the outdoor unit based on at least the durability information of each component of the outdoor unit, the second environmental information, the operating conditions of the outdoor unit at the start of the lease, and the scheduled maintenance information of the outdoor unit, and calculates the initial predicted residual value at the end of the lease based on the residual value of the indoor unit and the residual value of the outdoor unit.

[0040] According to this configuration, the initially estimated residual value is calculated by further reflecting scheduled maintenance information and component durability information, so that the initially estimated residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0041] In the lease residual value calculation system, the calculation unit corrects durability information of each component of the indoor unit based on the first environmental information, and corrects durability information of each component of the outdoor unit based on the second environmental information.

[0042] According to this configuration, the durability information of the parts is corrected depending on the installation environment of the indoor unit, and the durability information of the parts is corrected depending on the installation environment of the outdoor unit, so that the initially predicted residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0043] In the above lease residual value calculation system, the air conditioner includes at least one indoor unit and at least one outdoor unit, the acquisition unit acquires the contribution rate of the indoor unit and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit to the air conditioner, and the calculation unit calculates the residual value at the end of the lease for each indoor unit based on at least the first environmental information and the operating conditions of the indoor unit at the start of the lease, calculates the residual value at the end of the lease for each outdoor unit based on at least the second environmental information and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit at the start of the lease, and calculates an initial predicted residual value of the air conditioner based on the contribution rate of the indoor unit, the contribution rate of the outdoor unit, the residual value of the indoor unit, and the residual value of the outdoor unit.

[0044] According to this configuration, for a system including multiple indoor units and multiple outdoor units, the contribution rate of the indoor units and the contribution rate of the outdoor units in the air conditioner are reflected in the calculation of the initial predicted residual value, so that the initial predicted residual value can be accurately calculated.

[0045] In the above lease residual value calculation system, the acquisition unit further acquires operating performance information regarding the operating performance of the indoor unit up to a specified time during the lease period and operating performance information regarding the operating performance of the outdoor unit up to a specified time during the lease period, and the calculation unit calculates the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner at the end of the lease as the residual value calculated during the lease period based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the operating performance information of the indoor unit up to a specified time during the lease period, and the operating performance information of the outdoor unit up to a specified time during the lease period.

[0046] According to this configuration, the initial predicted residual value is calculated based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the indoor unit's operating performance information, and the outdoor unit's operating performance information, so that the actual predicted residual value reflecting the actual performance can be accurately calculated.

[0047] In the above lease residual value calculation system, the acquisition unit further acquires maintenance information (maintenance history information) of the air conditioner that was performed up to a specified time during the lease period, and the calculation unit calculates the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner at the end of the lease based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the maintenance information (maintenance history information), the operating performance information of the indoor unit up to a specified time during the lease period, and the operating performance information of the outdoor unit up to a specified time during the lease period.

[0048] According to this configuration, since the maintenance information (maintenance history information) is further reflected in the calculation of the actual performance forecast residual value, the actual performance forecast residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0049] In the above lease residual value calculation system, the acquisition unit further acquires durability information of each part that constitutes the indoor unit and durability information of each part that constitutes the outdoor unit, and the calculation unit calculates the residual value of the indoor unit based on at least the first environmental information of the indoor unit, the durability information of each part of the indoor unit, and actual operating information of the indoor unit up to a specified time during the lease period, calculates the residual value of the outdoor unit based on at least the second environmental information of the outdoor unit, the durability information of each part of the outdoor unit, and actual operating information of the outdoor unit up to a specified time during the lease period, and calculates a predicted actual residual value of the air conditioner at the end of the lease based on the residual value of the indoor unit and the residual value of the outdoor unit.

[0050] According to this configuration, since the durability information of the parts is further reflected in the calculation of the actual performance forecast residual value, the actual performance forecast residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0051] In the above lease residual value calculation system, the acquisition unit further acquires durability information of each part that constitutes the indoor unit and durability information of each part that constitutes the outdoor unit, and the calculation unit calculates the residual value of the indoor unit based on at least the first environmental information of the indoor unit, the durability information of each part of the indoor unit, operating performance information of the indoor unit up to a specified time during the lease period, and maintenance information (maintenance history information) of the indoor unit, calculates the residual value of the outdoor unit based on at least the second environmental information of the outdoor unit, the durability information of each part of the outdoor unit, operating performance information of the outdoor unit up to a specified time during the lease period, and maintenance information (maintenance history information) of the outdoor unit, and calculates a predicted actual residual value of the air conditioner at the time of lease expiration based on the residual value of the indoor unit and the residual value of the outdoor unit.

[0052] According to this configuration, since the calculation of the actual performance forecast residual value further reflects the maintenance information (maintenance history information) and the durability information of the parts, the actual performance forecast residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0053] In the lease residual value calculation system, the calculation unit corrects durability information of each component of the indoor unit based on the first environmental information, and corrects durability information of each component of the outdoor unit based on the second environmental information.

[0054] According to this configuration, the durability information of the parts is corrected according to the installation environment of the indoor unit, and the durability information of the parts is corrected according to the installation environment of the outdoor unit, so that the actual forecast residual value can be accurately calculated according to the installation environment.

[0055] In the above lease residual value calculation system, the air conditioner includes at least one indoor unit and at least one outdoor unit, the acquisition unit acquires the contribution rate of the indoor unit and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit to the air conditioner, and the calculation unit calculates a residual value for each indoor unit based on at least the first environmental information and the operating performance information of the indoor unit up to a specified time during the lease period, calculates a residual value for each outdoor unit based on at least the second environmental information and the operating performance information of the outdoor unit up to a specified time during the lease period, and calculates a predicted actual residual value of the air conditioner based on the contribution rate of the outdoor unit, the contribution rate of the outdoor unit, the residual value of the indoor unit, and the residual value of the outdoor unit.

[0056] According to this configuration, for a system including multiple indoor units and multiple outdoor units, the contribution rate of the indoor units and the contribution rate of the outdoor units in the air conditioner are reflected in the calculation of the actual forecast residual value, so that the actual forecast residual value can be accurately calculated.

[0057] <First embodiment of residual value calculation system> The following describes the lease residual value calculation system 1 for the air conditioner 2. The lease residual value calculation system 1 for the air conditioner 2 calculates the residual value of the air conditioner 2 that is the subject of lease.

[0058] The residual value of an air conditioner 2 indicates the remaining value obtained by subtracting the value that has decreased due to use of the air conditioner 2 from the initial usage value that is preset for the air conditioner 2. In one example, the initial usage value is defined as 100. The value of an air conditioner 2 that has become unusable due to wear and tear is defined as 0. The residual value is expressed as a percentage.

[0059] The residual value includes the residual value at the end of the lease set for the leased air conditioner 2 at the beginning of the lease (hereinafter, "initial predicted residual value"), and the residual value at the end of the lease predicted for the leased air conditioner 2 during the lease (hereinafter, "actual predicted residual value"). In this embodiment, the lease residual value calculation system 1 calculates at least one of the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value. In one example, the initial predicted residual value is presented to the lease contract holder as an estimate of the residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of the initial contract. By presenting the initial predicted residual value, the lease contract holder can confirm the appropriateness of the lease fee. The actual predicted residual value may be presented to the lease contract holder or the user of the air conditioner 2 during the lease, as the residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the end of the lease. By presenting the actual predicted residual value, the current usage state of the air conditioner 2 can be understood in relation to the future residual value.

[0060] 1, the lease residual value calculation system 1 includes a management device 3. The management device 3 manages an air conditioner 2. In this embodiment, the management device 3 manages one or more air conditioners 2 that are leased. Lease means "operating lease." The air conditioner 2 that is leased is lent to a user. The user can use the air conditioner 2 during the lease period.

[0061] In the lease contract, the lease period and the initially estimated residual value at the end of the lease are determined. The lease fee is set based on the value obtained by subtracting the initially estimated residual value at the end of the lease from the original value of the air conditioner 2 at the start of the lease.

[0062] The air conditioner 2 managed by the management device 3 will be described with reference to FIG. The air conditioner 2 is the subject of a lease contract. The air conditioner 2 is configured to be able to communicate with a management device 3. The air conditioner 2 is configured to be able to transmit the operation record of the air conditioner 2 to the management device 3. An example of the air conditioner 2 is given below.

[0063] The air conditioner 2 includes an indoor unit 11 and an outdoor unit 12. The air conditioner 2 may include refrigerant piping 13 connecting the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 12. The indoor unit 11 includes an indoor heat exchanger 14 and an electronic expansion valve 15 that expands the refrigerant. The outdoor unit 12 includes an outdoor heat exchanger 16, a compressor 17 that compresses the refrigerant, a control unit 18, and a communication unit 19. The refrigerant piping 13 is configured as a closed circuit including the indoor heat exchanger 14 and the outdoor heat exchanger 16. The communication unit 19 communicates with the management device 3.

[0064] The control unit 18 of the air conditioner 2 collects operating history related to the operation of the air conditioner 2. The operating history includes the accumulated operating time of the compressor 17, the accumulated on / off frequency of the compressor 17, the on / off frequency per unit time of the compressor 17, and the accumulated operating time of the indoor unit 11. The communication unit 19 of the air conditioner 2 outputs the operating history of the air conditioner 2 to the management device 3 periodically or in response to a request command from the management device 3.

[0065] The management device 3 will be described with reference to FIG. The management device 3 may be directly connected to the air conditioner 2. The management device 3 may be connected to the air conditioner 2 via a network N. The network N includes at least one of a local network and the Internet. In this embodiment, the management device 3 is connected to the air conditioner 2 via the network N.

[0066] In addition to the air conditioner 2, the management device 3 further manages a specific device 20. The specific device 20 communicates with the management device 3. The communication includes one-way and two-way communication. An example of the specific device 20 is an information terminal. The specific device 20 has identification information for communication. The identification information includes a communication address unique to the specific device 20. The management device 3 stores at least the identification information of the specific device 20.

[0067] The management device 3 associates the air conditioner 2 with a specified device 20 as a destination of information related to the air conditioner 2. Multiple specified devices 20 may be associated with one air conditioner 2. The management device 3 associates and stores the air conditioner 2 with the specified device 20. The management device 3 transmits information calculated related to the air conditioner 2 to the specified device 20 associated with the air conditioner 2. In one example, the management device 3 transmits the initial predicted residual value or actual predicted residual value calculated by the management device 3 to the specified device 20 in response to a request. The management device 3 may transmit the actual predicted residual value to the specified device 20 periodically or at a scheduled time.

[0068] The management device 3 may manage a plurality of air conditioners 2. The plurality of air conditioners 2 may each have a different user or manager of the air conditioners 2. The management device 3 associates a predetermined device 20 with each of the plurality of air conditioners 2 as a transmission destination of information of the air conditioner 2.

[0069] It is preferable that the information terminal serving as the predetermined device 20 includes a display unit that displays information. Information terminals include mobile phones, smartphones, notebook computers, and personal computers.

[0070] The management device 3 includes a storage unit 21. The storage unit 21 stores the lease period and the initially predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2. The initially predicted residual value may be set by an agreement between the leasing company and the user, or may be calculated by the calculation unit 23 as described below. The storage unit 21 stores information acquired by the management device 3.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 1, the management device 3 includes an acquisition unit 22 and a calculation unit . The acquisition unit 22 acquires the first environmental information and the second environmental information. In this embodiment, acquisition includes accessing the air conditioner 2 to acquire information stored in the air conditioner 2, accessing the memory unit 21 of the management device 3 to acquire information stored in the management device 3, and receiving information input by the input device.

[0072] The first environmental information is information on the installation environment of the indoor unit 11. The first environmental information is associated with the air conditioner 2 and stored in advance in the storage unit 21. The first environmental information includes at least one of the region, the regional climate, the altitude, the purpose, the installation location, and the indoor temperature. The region includes at least one of the plains, the coastal area, the mountain area, and the urban area. The regional climate includes at least one of the cold zone, the temperate zone, the dry zone, the tropical zone, the subtropical zone, and the subarctic zone. The altitude includes the lowlands, the mid-highlands, and the highlands. The purpose includes at least one of the office, the food and drink, the sports gym, the shop, the learning, the equipment manufacturing, and the food manufacturing. The installation location indicates the installation location in the room. The installation location includes at least one of the office work room, the dining room, the kitchen, the smoking room, the entrance, the ceiling, and the window. The indoor temperature includes the average temperature and average humidity in the room in summer, and the average temperature and average humidity in the room in winter.

[0073] The second environmental information is information relating to the installation environment of the outdoor unit 12. The second environmental information is associated with the air conditioner 2 and stored in advance in the memory unit 21. The second environmental information includes at least one of the region, the regional climate, the altitude, the installation location, and the outdoor air conditions. The installation location indicates the presence or absence of a shield against wind or rain. Examples of shields include eaves, roofs, and walls. The region, the regional climate, and the altitude are as described above. The outdoor air conditions include the average summer temperature, average humidity, and average winter temperature and average humidity of the region.

[0074] The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value at the time of lease expiration based on the first environmental information and the second environmental information. Here, the residual value includes an initial predicted residual value and a performance predicted residual value. The wear or deterioration of the air conditioner 2 affects the environment in which the indoor unit 11 is installed and the environment in which the outdoor unit 12 is installed. For example, in an office where the air environment is managed, the indoor unit 11 wears or deteriorates less. In a restaurant facing a road with heavy traffic, the indoor unit 11 wears or deteriorates faster. In a coastal area where the air has a high salt content, the air conditioner 2 wears or deteriorates faster. For this reason, the calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value at the time of lease expiration based on the first environmental information and the second environmental information. This makes it possible to calculate an appropriate residual value according to the environment. Below, a specific example of the calculation of the residual value will be explained.

[0075] [Example of calculation of initial forecast residual value] A first calculation method for an initially predicted residual value will be described with reference to Fig. 3 to Fig. 5. Fig. 3 is a diagram summarizing numerical values ​​used for calculating the residual value of the outdoor unit 12. Fig. 4 is a diagram summarizing numerical values ​​used for calculating the residual value of the indoor unit 11. Fig. 5 is a diagram explaining a calculation method for the residual value of the air conditioner 2.

[0076] The acquisition unit 22 acquires the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 at the beginning of the lease (initial operating conditions) and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 (initial operating conditions). In a lease contract, the operating conditions of the air conditioner 2 are determined at the time of the contract. The operating conditions include the operating time and the set temperature of the indoor unit 11. Since wear or deterioration of the air conditioner 2 varies depending on the operating conditions as well as the first environmental information and the second environmental information, it is preferable that the operating conditions are reflected in the calculation of the initial predicted residual value.

[0077] The calculation unit 23 calculates an initial predicted residual value at the time of lease expiration based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 at the start of the lease, and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 at the start of the lease.

[0078] Specifically, the calculation unit 23 calculates an initial predicted residual value based on the initial predicted residual value of the indoor unit 11 at the time of lease expiration (hereinafter referred to as the "first initial predicted residual value") and the initial predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12 at the time of lease expiration (hereinafter referred to as the "second initial predicted residual value").

[0079] The calculation unit 23 calculates a second initial predicted residual value for the outdoor unit 12 based on the second environmental information and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 at the start of leasing. The operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 include at least one of the operating time period in a day, the number of operating days per year, the maximum load factor, and the total operating time. In one example, the operation of the outdoor unit 12 is defined as the operation of the compressor 17. The operating time period indicates the time period of operation in a day from the operation start time to the operation end time. The number of operating days per year is the number of days in a year excluding the days on which the outdoor unit 12 is not in operation. The maximum load factor indicates the ratio of the load of the outdoor unit 12 to the maximum load for which the outdoor unit 12 is designed. The total operating time indicates, in one example, the accumulated operating time during which the compressor 17 is operating.

[0080] The calculation unit 23 calculates a first initial predicted residual value for the indoor unit 11 based on the first environmental information and the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 at the start of leasing. The operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 include at least one of the operating time period in one day, the number of operating days per year, the maximum load factor, the total operating time, and the set temperature. In one example, the operation of the indoor unit 11 is defined as the operation of the blower fan. In one example, the total operating time is defined as the accumulated operating time during which the blower fan is operating.

[0081] The calculation unit 23 has the contribution rate of the indoor unit 11 to the air conditioner 2 and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12 to the air conditioner 2, which are preset in the air conditioner 2. The calculation unit 23 calculates the sum of the product of the first initial predicted residual value of the indoor unit 11 and the contribution rate of the indoor unit 11 and the product of the second initial predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12 and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12, as the initial predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2. An example of the contribution rate of the indoor unit 11 and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12 is shown in FIG.

[0082] Furthermore, preferably, the acquisition unit 22 acquires the installation conditions of the indoor unit 11 and the installation conditions of the outdoor unit 12 at the time of leasing. In this embodiment, the installation conditions of the indoor unit 11 and the installation conditions of the outdoor unit 12 both include the same items (see Figs. 3 and 4).

[0083] The calculation unit 23 may calculate the initial predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12 based on the second environmental information, the operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 at the start of leasing, and the installation conditions of the outdoor unit 12 at the start of leasing.

[0084] The installation conditions of the outdoor unit 12 include the elevation difference of the refrigerant system. The greater the elevation difference of the refrigerant system, the lower the air conditioning efficiency. Therefore, if the elevation difference of the refrigerant system changes, the operating time of the air conditioner 2 also changes, affecting the second initial predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12.

[0085] In an air conditioner 2 in which multiple indoor units 11 are connected to an outdoor unit 12, the installation conditions for the outdoor unit 12 may include a maximum value of the indoor unit connection rate. The installation conditions for the indoor units 11 may include an indoor unit connection rate. The indoor unit connection rate indicates the sum of the capacities of the indoor units 11 connected to the outdoor unit 12 for the purpose of operating the air conditioner, relative to the capacity of the outdoor unit 12. The higher the indoor unit connection rate, the greater the load on the outdoor unit 12, so the maximum value of the indoor unit connection rate affects the residual value.

[0086] The calculation unit 23 may calculate the initial predicted residual value for the indoor unit 11 based on the first environmental information, the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 at the start of leasing, and the installation conditions of the indoor unit 11 at the start of leasing.

[0087] The installation conditions of the indoor unit 11 include the elevation difference of the refrigerant system. The greater the elevation difference of the refrigerant system, the lower the air conditioning efficiency. Therefore, if the elevation difference of the refrigerant system changes, the operation time of the air conditioner 2 also changes, affecting the first initial predicted residual value of the indoor unit 11.

[0088] An example of calculation of the initially predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The initially predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is shown at the bottom of the fifth column from the left in Fig. 3. The initial predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is calculated based on basic data. The basic data includes a preset lifespan, an ideal environment in which deterioration of the air conditioner 2 is unlikely to occur, ideal installation conditions under which excessive load is not imposed, and ideal operating conditions. The ideal operating conditions are operating conditions under which the air conditioner 2 can be operated without problems over its lifespan when the air conditioner 2 is operated in an ideal environment and under ideal installation conditions.

[0089] The lifespan of the outdoor unit 12 in this embodiment is set to eight years. Regarding the ideal environment, the region is set as "plains," the regional climate as "temperate," the altitude as "lowland," the installation location as "with shelter," and the outside air conditions as "summer, temperature 40°C, humidity 70%, winter, -2°C, humidity, 15%."

[0090] Regarding the ideal installation conditions, the elevation difference in the refrigerant system is set to "small," and the maximum indoor unit connection rate in a system including a plurality of indoor units 11 is set to "80%." Regarding the ideal operating conditions, the operating hours in one day are set to "8:00 to 20:00", the number of operating days per year is set to "200 days", the maximum load factor is set to "80%, and the total operating time is set to "9,600 hours".

[0091] The initial predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is calculated based on a ratio determined by comparing the residual value calculation items with basic data. The residual value calculation items include second environmental information, which is the environment of the outdoor unit 12, operating conditions stipulated by the contract, and installation conditions of the outdoor unit 12.

[0092] Specifically, the initially predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is calculated as the product of a first ratio of each item of the second environmental information to the reference data for the environment, a second ratio of each item of the operating conditions to the reference data for the operating conditions, and a third ratio of each item of the installation conditions to the reference data for the installation conditions. The first ratio, the second ratio, and the third ratio can be regarded as a kind of residual value for each item. The first ratio and the third ratio are set in advance. The second ratio is determined by calculation.

[0093] The first ratio of each item of the second environmental information is preset as a ratio to the reference data. For example, since the coastal areas are more susceptible to salt damage than the plains, the first ratio of the coastal areas is set to 98%.

[0094] The second ratio of the operating conditions is calculated as a ratio to the reference data. For example, if the total operating time of the outdoor unit 12 in the basic data is 9,600 hours and the total operating time set by the lease contract is 4,800 hours, the remaining operable time is the value obtained by subtracting the total operating time in the lease contract (4,800 hours) from the total operating time in the basic data (hereinafter, the difference time). The second ratio as the residual value is calculated as 4,800 hours (difference time) / 9,600 hours. In this case, the second ratio is 50%.

[0095] The third ratio of the installation condition is preset as a ratio to the reference data. For example, when the refrigerant system height difference is medium, the air conditioning efficiency is lower than when the refrigerant system height difference is small, and there is a risk of the operation time of the outdoor unit 12 increasing, so the third ratio is set to 98%.

[0096] 3, the initially predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is calculated as 48% by multiplying the first ratio, the second ratio, and the third ratio. If the initially predicted residual value were calculated based only on the total operation time, the initially predicted residual value would be 50%, but in this embodiment, since the second environmental information and the installation conditions are reflected, the initially predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is lower than 50%.

[0097] The initial predicted residual value of the indoor unit 11 can also be calculated in the same manner as the outdoor unit 12. Fig. 4 shows, for the indoor unit 11, a first ratio of the first environmental information to the environmental reference data, a second ratio of the operating conditions to the operating condition reference data, and a third ratio of the installation conditions to the installation condition reference data. The initial predicted residual value of the indoor unit 11 is shown at the bottom of the fifth column from the left in Fig. 4. In the example shown in Fig. 4, the initial predicted residual value of the indoor unit 11 is 48%.

[0098] The initial predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 is calculated as described above. That is, the calculation unit 23 calculates the sum of the product of the initial predicted residual value of the indoor unit 11 and the contribution rate of the indoor unit 11 and the product of the initial predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12 and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12 as the initial predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2.

[0099] 5, in this embodiment, the initially predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 is calculated as 48%×50%+48%×50%, which is 48%. This calculation example of the initially predicted residual value can be applied to the calculation of other residual values.

[0100] With reference to FIG. 6, the second calculation method of the initial forecast residual value will be described. The acquisition unit 22 acquires the first environmental information and the second environmental information. The acquisition unit 22 acquires the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 at the start of the lease. Furthermore, the acquisition unit 22 acquires planned maintenance information of the air conditioner 2 relating to maintenance scheduled to be performed during the lease period.

[0101] In a lease contract, a maintenance contract may be concluded at the time of the contract. The maintenance contract is a contract regarding maintenance to be performed during the lease period. The maintenance contract includes planned maintenance information regarding scheduled maintenance. The planned maintenance information includes the frequency of maintenance and the contents of the maintenance. Since wear or deterioration of the air conditioner 2 varies depending on the maintenance, it is preferable that the calculation of the initial predicted residual value reflects the planned maintenance information regarding maintenance of the air conditioner 2.

[0102] In one example, the maintenance contents include general maintenance and simple maintenance. General maintenance is maintenance that is generally performed on the components of the air conditioner 2. In one example, general maintenance involves diagnosing abnormalities using a dedicated abnormality detector. In one example, in general maintenance, an operator performs an overload test on the compressor 17, diagnoses it, and repairs it if an abnormality is found. Consumables are replaced periodically. Simple maintenance is maintenance that is simply performed by visual inspection of the components of the air conditioner 2. In one example, in simple maintenance, an operator replaces worn parts.

[0103] The scheduled maintenance information includes ratio information associated with a maintenance course that is composed of the maintenance content and the maintenance frequency. The ratio information indicates the degree of decrease in residual value when maintenance is performed accurately and regularly.

[0104] The degree of wear or deterioration of the air conditioner 2 changes depending on the maintenance. By performing maintenance accurately and regularly, wear or deterioration of the air conditioner 2 will be reduced and the residual value will be higher. For this reason, it can be predicted that the residual value of the air conditioner 2 will differ depending on the maintenance contract in the lease contract.

[0105] In one example, the calculation unit 23 calculates the initial predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the end of the lease based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 at the beginning of the lease, the operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 at the beginning of the lease, and the scheduled maintenance information.

[0106] The initially predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 is calculated as the product of the initially predicted residual value calculated by a predetermined calculation method and the fourth ratio related to maintenance. An example of the predetermined calculation method is the first calculation method listed above.

[0107] The fourth ratio is preset as a ratio to the standard maintenance data. In this embodiment, standard maintenance involves general maintenance once a year and simple maintenance once a month. The ratio of standard maintenance is 100%. Maintenance course A involves only general maintenance once a year. The ratio of maintenance course A to standard maintenance is set to 90%. In the case of such maintenance course A, the initial planned residual value of the air conditioner 2 is 90% of the standard residual value compared to the case where standard maintenance is performed. For example, if the initial planned residual value calculated by the first calculation method is 48%, and maintenance is scheduled to be performed by maintenance course A rather than standard maintenance, the initial planned residual value is calculated to be 43%.

[0108] The third calculation method of the initial forecast residual value will be described with reference to Figs. The acquisition unit 22 acquires the first environmental information and the second environmental information. The acquisition unit 22 acquires the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 at the time of lease. Furthermore, the acquisition unit 22 acquires durability information of each part constituting the indoor unit 11 and durability information of each part constituting the outdoor unit 12.

[0109] Wear or deterioration of the air conditioner 2 varies depending on the durability of each component that constitutes the air conditioner 2. The components include at least the compressor 17, the indoor heat exchanger 14, the outdoor heat exchanger 16, and the electronic expansion valve 15. Examples of other components include a frame, anti-vibration rubber, a fan, a fan belt, various solenoid valves, an anti-freeze heater, a drain pan, various sensors, an electrical box, a refrigerant piping 13, a drain pan, a drain pump, a float switch, and a filter. Durability refers to the resistance to use. Service life information includes a service life. It is preferable that the service life information of each component is reflected in the calculation of the initial predicted residual value.

[0110] The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value of the indoor unit 11 based on the durability information of each component of the indoor unit 11, the first environmental information, and the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 at the start of the lease. The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value of the outdoor unit 12 based on the durability information of each component of the outdoor unit 12, the second environmental information, and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 at the start of the lease. Then, the calculation unit 23 calculates an initially predicted residual value at the time of lease expiration based on the residual value of each component of the indoor unit 11 and the residual value of each component of the outdoor unit 12.

[0111] Resistance varies depending on the installation environment. For example, the service life of a part varies depending on the environment. For parts that contain metal, the service life of the part will be shorter in coastal areas because metal is more likely to deteriorate.

[0112] Therefore, it is preferable that the calculation unit 23 corrects the durability information of each component of the indoor unit 11 based on the first environmental information. It is preferable that the calculation unit 23 corrects the durability information of each component of the outdoor unit 12 based on the second environmental information.

[0113] An example of calculation of the residual value of part A constituting the outdoor unit 12 will be described with reference to FIG. The initial predicted residual value of part A is calculated based on the operating conditions determined by the contract, durability information of part A, and a correction ratio (correction coefficient) for the durability information.

[0114] Specifically, the calculation unit 23 derives the operation time (estimated operation time) of the part A at the time of lease expiration from the operation conditions. If the part A is a part that is linked to the operation of the air conditioner 2, the calculation unit 23 sets the estimated operation time to a value equal to the total operation time estimated from the operation conditions.

[0115] The correction ratio for the durability information is preset as a ratio to the reference data for each item of the second environmental information. For example, since there is a greater risk of salt damage in coastal areas than in plain areas, the correction ratio for coastal areas for part A is set to 80%. The correction ratio has a different value for each part. For example, for a part that is resistant to salt, the correction ratio is defined as 100%. Parts that contain rubber are vulnerable to salt, so the correction ratio is set to a low value.

[0116] The correction ratio (correction coefficient) for the durability information may be set based on information other than the second environmental information. The load applied to the parts may vary not only based on the environment of the parts, but also based on the installation conditions of the air conditioner 2 and the operation information of the air conditioner 2. The deterioration of the parts may vary depending on the maintenance of the air conditioner 2. Therefore, the correction ratio (correction coefficient) may be set based on at least one of the second environmental information, the installation conditions, the operation information, and the maintenance information.

[0117] The value of the correction ratio (correction coefficient) may be a value set by machine learning. For example, the correction ratio is obtained by inputting the second environmental information and the part life to the trained model. The trained model is generated by using the second environmental information and the part life of the air conditioner 2 and the correction ratio as teacher data as training data. In another example, the correction ratio is obtained by inputting the second environmental information, operation information, maintenance information, and the part life to the trained model. The trained model is generated by using input data including the second environmental information, operation information, maintenance information, and the part life of the air conditioner 2, and the correction ratio as teacher data as training data.

[0118] The service life information is preferably corrected based on a correction ratio to the service life information. For example, if the service life information is the service life of part A, the service life value after correction is defined as the product of the service life and the correction ratio. In this way, the service life is corrected by the second environment information.

[0119] In the example shown in FIG. 7, each item of the second environmental information at the time of the lease contract is the same as the basic data except for the "area". The area is set to "coastal area". The correction ratio of the second environmental information is defined as the product of each item of the second environmental information. In this embodiment, the correction ratio of the second environmental information is calculated to be 80%. In this case, the useful life is corrected from 20,000 hours to 16,000 hours (see the corrected useful life in FIG. 8).

[0120] If the estimated operating time of part A is 4,800 hours, the remaining operating time is 16,000 hours minus 4,800 hours (the difference in time). The difference in time is 11,200 hours. The residual value of part A is defined as the ratio of the difference in time to the uncorrected useful life. In this example, the residual value of part A is 56%.

[0121] Fig. 8 is a diagram summarizing the residual value of parts and the contribution rate of parts. As shown in Fig. 8, the initial predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is defined as the sum of the products of the residual value of each of the multiple parts and the contribution rate of the part. The initial predicted residual value of the indoor unit 11 can be calculated using a similar calculation method.

[0122] In one example, the calculation unit 23 uses the following information in calculating the initial predicted residual value of the parts of the indoor unit 11 and the initial predicted residual value of the parts of the outdoor unit 12. (a) When calculating the initial predicted residual value after lease expiration for each part of the indoor unit 11 before the air conditioner 2 is used, the calculation unit 23 uses the initial first environmental information, the initial installation conditions, the planned operating information, and the planned maintenance information.

[0123] (b) When calculating the initial predicted residual value after lease expiration for each part of the outdoor unit 12 before the air conditioner 2 is used, the calculation unit 23 uses the initial second environmental information, the initial installation conditions, the planned operating information, and the planned maintenance information.

[0124] The fourth calculation method for the initial forecast residual value will now be explained. The fourth calculation method is a modified example of the third calculation method, and is a method in which scheduled maintenance information is reflected in the third calculation method.

[0125] The acquisition unit 22 acquires the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 12 at the start of the lease, durability information of each part that constitutes the indoor unit 11, durability information of each part that constitutes the outdoor unit 12, and planned maintenance information of the air conditioner 2 regarding maintenance scheduled to be performed during the lease period.

[0126] The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value of the indoor unit 11 based on the durability information of each component of the indoor unit 11, the first environmental information, the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 at the start of the lease, and the scheduled maintenance information of the indoor unit 11. The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value of the outdoor unit 12 based on the durability information of each component of the outdoor unit 12, the second environmental information, the operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 at the start of the lease, and the scheduled maintenance information of the outdoor unit 12. Next, the calculation unit 23 calculates an initial predicted residual value at the time of lease expiration based on the residual value of the indoor unit 11 and the residual value of the outdoor unit 12. Preferably, the calculation unit 23 corrects the durability information of each component of the indoor unit 11 based on the first environmental information, and corrects the durability information of each component of the outdoor unit 12 based on the second environmental information.

[0127] [Example of calculating actual forecast residual value] The calculation of the actual forecast residual value will be described with reference to Figs. The actual usage of the air conditioner 2 may differ significantly from the frequency of usage planned at the time of the lease contract. For example, the frequency of usage of the air conditioner 2 may change due to various factors, such as increased frequency of usage due to abnormal weather, a change in the use of the room due to a change in tenants, a change in the amount of sunlight due to the construction of a building, or a change in frequency of usage due to changes in electricity rates. If the residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration deviates significantly from the initially predicted residual value, this is detrimental to the user and the leasing company. For this reason, it is preferable to predict the actual predicted residual value at the time of lease expiration during the lease.

[0128] The first calculation method of the actual forecast residual value will be described with reference to Figs. The acquisition unit 22 acquires operation performance information regarding the operation performance of the indoor unit 11 up to a predetermined time during the lease period, and operation performance information regarding the operation performance of the outdoor unit 12 up to a predetermined time during the lease period.

[0129] In one example, the acquisition unit 22 acquires operation performance information from the air conditioner 2 via the network N. For example, the acquisition unit 22 periodically requests information from the air conditioner 2 and acquires the operation performance information from the air conditioner 2. Alternatively, if the air conditioner 2 stores the operation performance information in the management device 3, the acquisition unit 22 acquires the operation performance information from the management device 3. One example of operation performance information is the accumulated operating time of the compressor 17 and the accumulated operating time of the blower fan of the indoor unit 11.

[0130] The calculation unit 23 calculates the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the end of the lease as the residual value calculated during the lease period based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the operating history information of the indoor unit 11 up to a specified time during the lease period, and the operating history information of the outdoor unit 12 up to a specified time during the lease period.

[0131] The calculation unit 23 calculates the actual predicted residual value of the indoor unit 11 based on a ratio determined by comparing the residual value calculation items with basic data. The residual value calculation items include first environmental information which is the environment of the indoor unit 11, predicted operating results at the time of lease expiration predicted from operating results, and installation conditions of the indoor unit 11. The calculation unit 23 calculates the predicted operating results at the time of lease expiration by performing a regression analysis on the operating results up to the prediction point.

[0132] Specifically, the actual predicted residual value of the indoor unit 11 is calculated as the product of a first ratio of each item of the first environmental information to the standard data for the environment, a second ratio of each item of the predicted operating results to the standard data for the operating conditions, and a third ratio of each item of the installation conditions to the standard data for the installation conditions.

[0133] The calculation unit 23 calculates the actual predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12 based on a ratio determined by comparing the residual value calculation items with basic data. The residual value calculation items include second environmental information which is the environment of the outdoor unit 12, predicted operating results at the time of lease expiration predicted from the operating results, and installation conditions of the outdoor unit 12. The calculation unit 23 calculates the predicted operating results at the time of lease expiration by performing a regression analysis on the operating results up to the prediction point.

[0134] Specifically, the actual predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is calculated as the product of a first ratio of each item of the second environmental information to the standard data for the environment, a second ratio of each item of the predicted operating results to the standard data for the operating conditions, and a third ratio of each item of the installation conditions to the standard data for the installation conditions.

[0135] The calculation unit 23 calculates the sum of the product of the actual predicted residual value of the indoor unit 11 and the contribution rate of the indoor unit 11 and the product of the actual predicted residual value of the outdoor unit 12 and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12 as the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2.

[0136] Next, the second calculation method of the actual forecast residual value will be described. Because wear or deterioration of the air conditioner 2 varies depending on maintenance, it is preferable that maintenance information (maintenance history information) be reflected in the calculation of the actual predicted residual value. Maintenance information (maintenance history information) is information relating to maintenance that has actually been performed. The maintenance information (maintenance history information) is stored in the air conditioner 2 by a maintenance worker, or is stored in the management device 3 by the maintenance worker.

[0137] The acquisition unit 22 acquires maintenance information (maintenance history information) of the air conditioner 2 that was performed up to a predetermined time during the lease period. In one example, the acquisition unit 22 acquires the maintenance information (maintenance history information) from the air conditioner 2 via the network N. For example, the acquisition unit 22 periodically requests information from the air conditioner 2 and acquires the maintenance information (maintenance history information) from the air conditioner 2. Alternatively, when a maintenance worker stores the maintenance information (maintenance history information) in the management device 3, the acquisition unit 22 acquires the maintenance information (maintenance history information) from the management device 3.

[0138] The calculation unit 23 calculates the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the maintenance information (maintenance history information), the operating performance information of the indoor unit 11 up to a specified time during the lease period, and the operating performance information of the outdoor unit 12 up to a specified time during the lease period.

[0139] Next, the third calculation method of the actual forecast residual value will be described. The wear and deterioration of the air conditioner 2 varies depending on the durability of each component that constitutes the air conditioner 2. It is preferable that durability information for each component is reflected in the calculation of the actual performance predicted residual value.

[0140] The acquisition unit 22 acquires durability information of each part that configures the indoor unit 11 and durability information of each part that configures the outdoor unit 12. The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value of the indoor unit 11 based on the first environmental information of the indoor unit 11, durability information of each component of the indoor unit 11, and actual operation information of the indoor unit 11 up to a predetermined time during the lease period. The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value of the outdoor unit 12 based on the second environmental information of the outdoor unit 12, durability information of each component of the outdoor unit 12, and actual operation information of the outdoor unit 12 up to a predetermined time during the lease period. Next, the calculation unit 23 calculates a predicted actual residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration based on the residual value of the indoor unit 11 and the residual value of the outdoor unit 12.

[0141] Resistance varies depending on the installation environment. For example, the service life of a part varies depending on the environment. In the case of a part containing metal, the metal is easily deteriorated in coastal areas, so the service life of the part is shorter. Therefore, it is preferable that the calculation unit 23 corrects the service life information of each part of the indoor unit 11 based on the first environmental information, and corrects the service life information of each part of the outdoor unit 12 based on the second environmental information. According to this configuration, the service life information of the part is corrected depending on the installation environment of the indoor unit 11, and the service life information of the part is corrected depending on the installation environment of the outdoor unit 12, so that the actual predicted residual value can be accurately calculated depending on the installation environment.

[0142] In one example, the calculation unit 23 uses the following information when calculating the predicted actual value residual value of the parts of the indoor unit 11 and the predicted actual value residual value of the parts of the outdoor unit 12. (a) When calculating the actual predicted residual value after lease expiration for each part of the indoor unit 11 during the usage period of the air conditioner 2, the calculation unit 23 uses the actual first environmental information, the actual installation conditions, the actual operating information, and the actual maintenance information (maintenance history information).

[0143] (b) When calculating the actual predicted residual value after lease expiration for each part of the outdoor unit 12 during the usage period of the air conditioner 2, the calculation unit 23 uses the actual second environmental information, the actual installation conditions, the actual operating information, and the actual maintenance information (maintenance history information).

[0144] A fourth calculation method of the actual forecast residual value will be described as a variation of the third calculation method. The fourth calculation method is a method in which maintenance information (maintenance history information) is reflected in each item used in the third calculation method. The acquisition unit 22 acquires durability information of each part that configures the indoor unit 11 and durability information of each part that configures the outdoor unit 12.

[0145] The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value of the indoor unit 11 based on the first environmental information of the indoor unit 11, the durability information of each component of the indoor unit 11, the operating performance information of the indoor unit 11 up to a predetermined time during the lease period, and the maintenance information (maintenance history information) of the indoor unit 11. The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value of the outdoor unit 12 based on the second environmental information of the outdoor unit 12, the durability information of each component of the outdoor unit 12, the operating performance information of the outdoor unit 12 up to a predetermined time during the lease period, and the maintenance information (maintenance history information) of the outdoor unit 12. The calculation unit 23 calculates the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration based on the residual value of the indoor unit 11 and the residual value of the outdoor unit 12. Preferably, the calculation unit 23 corrects the durability information of each component of the indoor unit 11 based on the first environmental information, and corrects the durability information of each component of the outdoor unit 12 based on the second environmental information.

[0146] [Effect] The operation of the lease residual value calculation system 1 of this embodiment will be described. The wear and tear or deterioration of the air conditioner 2 affects the environment in which the indoor unit 11 is installed and the environment in which the outdoor unit 12 is installed. Therefore, if the wear and tear or deterioration of the indoor unit 11 and the wear and tear or deterioration of the outdoor unit 12 are evaluated using the same criteria, there is a risk that the residual value of the air conditioner 2 cannot be accurately estimated. In response to this, the calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value at the time of lease expiration based on the first environmental information and the second environmental information. This makes it possible to calculate an appropriate residual value according to the environment.

[0147] The effects of the lease residual value calculation system 1 of this embodiment will be described. (1) The lease residual value calculation system 1 includes a management device 3. The management device 3 includes an acquisition unit 22 and a calculation unit 23. The acquisition unit 22 acquires first environmental information related to the installation environment of the indoor unit 11 and second environmental information related to the installation environment of the outdoor unit 12. The calculation unit 23 calculates at least one of an initial predicted residual value and an actual predicted residual value based on actual results, regarding the residual value after a set period of use, based on the first environmental information and the second environmental information.

[0148] The indoor unit 11 and outdoor unit 12 of the air conditioner 2 are placed in different environments. For example, the indoor unit 11 is placed in various environments such as an office, a restaurant, a sports gym, etc. The outdoor unit 12 is placed outdoors. The outdoor environment varies depending on the region where the air conditioner 2 is installed. In this way, the environment of the indoor unit 11 and the environment of the outdoor unit 12 are different, and both environments are diverse. In this regard, according to the above configuration, the residual value is calculated based on first environmental information related to the installation environment of the indoor unit 11 and second environmental information related to the installation environment of the outdoor unit 12, and the influence of the environment is reflected in the calculation of the residual value, so that the residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0149] (2) The management device 3 may be one that manages the rented air conditioners 2. With this type of lease residual value calculation system 1, the same effect as in (1) above can be obtained.

[0150] (3) The air conditioner 2 includes at least one indoor unit 11 and at least one outdoor unit 12. The acquisition unit 22 acquires the contribution rate of the indoor unit 11 and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12 to the air conditioner 2. The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value after a set period of use for each indoor unit 11 based on at least the first environmental information. The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value after a set period of use for each outdoor unit 12 based on at least the second environmental information. Furthermore, the calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value of the air conditioner 2 based on the contribution rate of the indoor unit 11, the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12, the residual value of the indoor unit 11, and the residual value of the outdoor unit 12.

[0151] According to this configuration, for a system including multiple indoor units 11 and multiple outdoor units 12, the contribution rate of the indoor units 11 and the contribution rate of the outdoor units 12 in the air conditioner 2 are reflected in the calculation of the residual value, so that the residual value of the air conditioner 2 can be accurately calculated.

[0152] (4) The calculation unit 23 performs at least one of the following (a) and (b): (a) The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value of the indoor unit 11 after the set period of use based on the residual value of each part of the indoor unit 11 after the set period of use and the contribution rate of the part to the indoor unit 11. (b) The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value of the outdoor unit 12 after the set period of use based on the residual value of each part of the outdoor unit 12 after the set period of use and the contribution rate of the part to the outdoor unit 12.

[0153] According to this configuration, the calculation of the residual value of the indoor unit 11 reflects the residual value of each part and the contribution rate of each part in the indoor unit 11. Also, the calculation of the residual value of the outdoor unit 12 reflects the residual value of each part and the contribution rate of each part in the outdoor unit 12. This allows the residual value of the air conditioner 2 to be calculated accurately.

[0154] (5) It is preferable that the acquisition unit 22 further acquires durability information of each part that constitutes the indoor unit 11 and durability information of each part that constitutes the outdoor unit 12.

[0155] The calculation unit 23 calculates a residual value for each component of the indoor unit 11 after a set period of use based on at least the durability information of each component of the indoor unit 11 and the first environmental information, and calculates a residual value for each component of the outdoor unit 12 after a set period of use based on at least the durability information of each component of the outdoor unit 12 and the second environmental information. Furthermore, the calculation unit 23 corrects the durability information of each component of the indoor unit 11 with a correction coefficient based on at least one of the first environmental information, installation conditions, operation information, and maintenance information, and corrects the durability information of each component of the outdoor unit 12 with a correction coefficient based on at least one of the second environmental information, installation conditions, operation information, and maintenance information.

[0156] According to this configuration, the calculation of the residual value of each part of the indoor unit 11 reflects the durability information of each part and the first environmental information. Furthermore, the calculation of the residual value of each part of the outdoor unit 12 reflects the durability information of each part and the second environmental information. Furthermore, the durability information of each part of the indoor unit 11 is corrected by a correction coefficient based on at least one of the first environmental information, installation conditions, operation information, and maintenance information. The durability information of each part of the outdoor unit 12 is corrected by a correction coefficient based on at least one of the second environmental information, installation conditions, operation information, and maintenance information. In this way, the durability information is corrected by environmental information, etc., so that the residual value of the air conditioner 2 can be calculated accurately.

[0157] (6) The correction coefficient may be a value learned by machine learning. According to this configuration, the correction coefficient is optimized by machine learning. This makes it possible to accurately calculate the residual value of the air conditioner 2.

[0158] (7) When calculating, before use, an initial predicted residual value for each component of the indoor unit 11 after use for a set period and an initial predicted residual value for each component of the outdoor unit 12 after use for a set period, the calculation unit 23 uses the initial first environmental information, the initial second environmental information, the initial installation conditions, the planned operating information, and the planned maintenance information. When calculating, during the usage period, an actual predicted residual value for each component of the indoor unit 11 after use for a set period and an actual predicted residual value for each component of the outdoor unit 12 after use for a set period, the calculation unit 23 uses the actual first environmental information, the actual second environmental information, the actual installation conditions, the actual operating information, and the actual maintenance information.

[0159] According to this configuration, the following effects (a) and (b) can be obtained. (a) The initial predicted residual value of each component of the indoor unit 11 and each component of the outdoor unit 12 is calculated using the initial first environmental information, the initial second environmental information, the initial installation conditions, the planned operating information, and the planned maintenance information, so that the initial predicted residual value of each component can be calculated accurately. (b) The actual first environmental information, the actual second environmental information, the actual installation conditions, the actual operating information, and the actual maintenance information are used to calculate the actual predicted residual value of each component of the indoor unit 11 and each component of the outdoor unit 12, so that the actual predicted residual value of each component can be calculated accurately.

[0160] (8) The calculation unit 23 of the lease residual value calculation system 1 calculates the residual value at the time of lease expiration based on the first environmental information and the second environmental information.

[0161] The indoor unit 11 and outdoor unit 12 of the air conditioner 2 are placed in different environments. For example, the indoor unit 11 is placed in various environments such as an office, a restaurant, a sports gym, etc. The outdoor unit 12 is placed outdoors. The outdoor environment varies depending on the region where the air conditioner 2 is installed. In this way, the environment of the indoor unit 11 and the environment of the outdoor unit 12 are different, and both environments are diverse. In this regard, according to the above configuration, the residual value is calculated based on first environmental information related to the installation environment of the indoor unit 11 and second environmental information related to the installation environment of the outdoor unit 12, and the influence of the environment is reflected in the calculation of the residual value, so that the residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0162] (9) The calculation unit 23 can calculate the initial forecast residual value as follows. The calculation unit 23 calculates the initial predicted residual value based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 at the start of leasing, and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 at the start of leasing. With this configuration, the initial predicted residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0163] (10) The calculation unit 23 may calculate the initial predicted residual value as follows. The calculation unit 23 calculates the initial predicted residual value based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 at the start of the lease, the operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 at the start of the lease, and the scheduled maintenance information. According to this configuration, the scheduled maintenance information is further reflected in the calculation of the initial predicted residual value, so that the initial predicted residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0164] (11) The calculation unit 23 further uses durability information in the calculation of the initial forecast residual value. According to this configuration, the durability information is further reflected in the calculation of the initial forecast residual value, so that the initial forecast residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0165] (12) The calculation unit 23 further uses part durability information and scheduled maintenance information in calculating the initially predicted residual value. With this configuration, the initially predicted residual value can be accurately calculated because the scheduled maintenance information and the part durability information are reflected.

[0166] Preferably, the calculation unit 23 corrects the durability information of each component of the indoor unit 11 based on the first environmental information. The calculation unit 23 corrects the durability information of each component of the outdoor unit 12 based on the second environmental information. With this configuration, the durability information of the components is corrected depending on the installation environment of the indoor unit 11, and the durability information of the components is corrected depending on the installation environment of the outdoor unit 12, so that the initial predicted residual value can be accurately calculated.

[0167] (13) The calculation unit 23 may calculate the actual forecast residual value as follows. The calculation unit 23 calculates a predicted actual residual value based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, actual operating information of the indoor unit 11 up to a specified time during the lease period, and actual operating information of the outdoor unit 12 up to a specified time during the lease period.

[0168] According to this configuration, the initial predicted residual value is calculated based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the operating performance information of the indoor unit 11, and the operating performance information of the outdoor unit 12, so that the actual predicted residual value reflecting the actual performance can be accurately calculated.

[0169] (14) The calculation unit 23 may calculate the actual performance forecast residual value as follows. The calculation unit 23 calculates the actual performance forecast residual value based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the maintenance information, the operating performance information of the indoor unit 11 up to a predetermined time during the lease period, and the operating performance information of the outdoor unit 12 up to a predetermined time during the lease period. With this configuration, the maintenance information is further reflected in the calculation of the actual performance forecast residual value, so that the actual performance forecast residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0170] (15) The calculation unit 23 further uses durability information of the parts in the calculation of the actual performance forecast residual value. According to this configuration, the durability information of the parts is further reflected in the calculation of the actual performance forecast residual value, so that the actual performance forecast residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0171] (16) The calculation unit 23 further uses the maintenance information and the durability information of the parts in the calculation of the actual performance forecast residual value. According to this configuration, the calculation of the actual performance forecast residual value further reflects the maintenance information and the durability information of the parts, so that the actual performance forecast residual value can be accurately calculated.

[0172] (17) It is preferable that the calculation unit 23 corrects the durability information of each component of the indoor unit 11 based on the first environmental information, and corrects the durability information of each component of the outdoor unit 12 based on the second environmental information. With this configuration, the durability information of the components is corrected depending on the installation environment of the indoor unit 11, and the durability information of the components is corrected depending on the installation environment of the outdoor unit 12, so that the actual forecast residual value can be accurately calculated depending on the installation environment.

[0173] <Second embodiment of residual value calculation system> A lease residual value calculation system 1 according to the second embodiment will be described. The lease residual value calculation system 1 manages an air conditioner 2 including at least one indoor unit 11 and at least one outdoor unit 12. The same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description of those components will be omitted.

[0174] The calculation of an initial predicted residual value for an air conditioner 2 including multiple indoor units 11 will be described. The acquisition unit 22 acquires the contribution rate of the indoor units 11 and the contribution rate of the outdoor units 12 to the air conditioner 2. The contribution rates are set in advance. The contribution rate of the indoor units 11 may be defined by the ratio of the capacities of the indoor units 11. The contribution rate of the outdoor units 12 may be defined by the ratio of the capacities of the outdoor units 12.

[0175] The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value at the time of lease expiration for each indoor unit 11 based on the first environmental information and the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 at the beginning of the lease. The residual value of the indoor unit 11 is calculated according to the calculation method of the first embodiment.

[0176] The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value at the end of the lease for each outdoor unit 12 based on the second environmental information and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 at the beginning of the lease. The residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is calculated according to the calculation method of the first embodiment.

[0177] Based on the contribution rates as shown in Figure 9, the calculation unit 23 calculates an initial predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 based on the contribution rate of the indoor unit 11, the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12, the residual value of the indoor unit 11, and the residual value of the outdoor unit 12.

[0178] According to this configuration, for a system including at least one indoor unit 11 and at least one outdoor unit 12, the contribution rate of the indoor unit 11 and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12 in the air conditioner 2 are reflected in the calculation of the initial predicted residual value, so that the initial predicted residual value can be accurately calculated.

[0179] The calculation of the actual forecast residual value will now be described. The acquisition unit 22 acquires the contribution rate of the indoor unit 11 and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12 to the air conditioner 2.

[0180] The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value for each indoor unit 11 based on at least the first environmental information and the operating performance information of the indoor unit 11 up to a predetermined time during the lease period. The residual value of the indoor unit 11 is calculated according to the calculation method of the first embodiment.

[0181] The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual value for each outdoor unit 12 based on at least the second environmental information and the operating performance information of the outdoor unit 12 up to a predetermined time during the lease period. The residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is calculated according to the calculation method of the first embodiment.

[0182] The calculation unit 23 calculates the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 based on the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12 , the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12 , the residual value of the indoor unit 11 , and the residual value of the outdoor unit 12 . According to this configuration, for a system including at least one indoor unit 11 and at least one outdoor unit 12, the contribution rate of the indoor unit 11 and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12 in the air conditioner 2 are reflected in the calculation of the actual predicted residual value, so that the actual predicted residual value can be accurately calculated.

[0183] <Modification of Residual Value Calculation System> In addition to the above-described embodiments, the lease residual value calculation system 1 of the present disclosure may be configured as, for example, the following modified examples, or a combination of at least two modified examples that are not mutually contradictory.

[0184] The lease residual value calculation system 1 may calculate the initial estimated residual value based on the first environmental information and the second environmental information. For example, when the operating conditions are not changed from the basic data, the calculation unit 23 calculates the initial estimated residual value after the expiration of the lease period based on the first environmental information and the second environmental information.

[0185] <Support system> The support system executes various processes to ensure that air conditioners are used appropriately. For example, the support system executes various processes for air conditioners rented out based on preset usage environments and usage conditions, so that the air conditioners are used appropriately. Methods for renting out air conditioners include leasing and subscription. Below, as an example of a support system, a support system for air conditioners rented out on lease (hereinafter, "lease support system 10") will be described. In the embodiment described below, the set period corresponds to the lease period. After use for the set period corresponds to lease expiration.

[0186] As a technology related to a lease support system, the technology described in Patent Document 1 (JP Patent Publication No. 2015-141600) is known. In the technology described in Patent Document 1, a lease residual value is calculated based on vehicle mileage, maintenance and modification record information, etc.

[0187] After the lease contract is signed, the operation of the air conditioner is left to the user. If the user operates the air conditioner with a higher load than the operating conditions based on the lease contract, the residual value of the air conditioner will be lower than planned. If the user operates the air conditioner with a lower load than the operating conditions based on the lease contract, the residual value of the air conditioner will be higher than planned. In this way, the actual residual value will deviate from the planned residual value depending on how the user uses the air conditioner. Such deviations are caused by various factors other than usage. If the deviation in the residual value becomes large, a large settlement amount will be required. It is preferable to prevent the actual residual value from deviating from the planned residual value for air conditioners used under lease contracts. An overview of the support system is given below.

[0188] An air conditioner leasing support system includes a management device that manages air conditioners, and the management device includes a processing unit that performs at least one of the following when it predicts that an actual predicted residual value (second residual value) of the air conditioner at the time of lease expiration based on the operating history of the air conditioner will deviate from an initially predicted residual value (first residual value) of the air conditioner at the time of lease expiration scheduled at the beginning of the lease: outputting deviation information or a signal regarding the deviation to a specified device; and changing the control setting variables of the air conditioner based on the deviation information so that the deviation at the time of lease expiration is suppressed.

[0189] According to this configuration, when it is predicted that the residual value at the end of the lease will deviate from the planned residual value, a predetermined process is carried out during the lease period, thereby preventing the residual value from deviating from the planned residual value.

[0190] In the air conditioner leasing support system, the control setting variables include at least one of the operation mode of the air conditioner, the room temperature setting, the thermostat setting, the indoor unit air volume, the indoor unit air direction, the start / stop times of the air conditioner, the evaporation temperature, the condensation temperature, and the capacity values ​​of the operating components that make up the air conditioner. With this configuration, the operation of the air conditioner can be changed by at least one of these control setting variables.

[0191] In the air conditioner lease support system, when the actual forecast residual value (second residual value) is predicted to be smaller than the initially forecast residual value (first residual value), the processing unit notifies the predetermined device of first recommendation information that prompts the user to change a control setting variable of the air conditioner based on the operating performance. With this configuration, the possibility that the control setting variable will be changed is increased, so that the actual forecast residual value (second residual value) can be brought closer to the initially forecast residual value (first residual value).

[0192] In the air conditioner lease support system, when the performance forecast residual value (second residual value) is predicted to be smaller than the initial forecast residual value (first residual value), the processing unit notifies the predetermined device of second recommendation information that prompts maintenance work based on the operating performance. With this configuration, the possibility that maintenance work will be performed on the air conditioner is increased, so that the performance forecast residual value (second residual value) can be brought closer to the initial forecast residual value (first residual value).

[0193] In the above-mentioned air conditioner leasing support system, the air conditioner is equipped with a plurality of indoor units, and the processing unit compares the initial predicted residual value (first residual value) with the actual predicted residual value (second residual value) for the air conditioner, and, depending on the result of the comparison, operates the indoor units in order of highest residual value based on the operating history.

[0194] According to this configuration, it is possible to equalize the residual values ​​of a plurality of indoor units. By equalizing the residual values ​​of a plurality of indoor units, it is possible to prevent the residual value of a specific indoor unit from deviating significantly from the planned residual value.

[0195] In the above-mentioned air conditioner leasing support system, the air conditioner is equipped with a plurality of indoor units, and the processing unit compares the initial predicted residual value (first residual value) with the actual predicted residual value (second residual value) for the air conditioner, and operates each indoor unit so that the residual values ​​of the multiple indoor units are equal depending on the result of the comparison.

[0196] According to this configuration, it is possible to equalize the residual values ​​of a plurality of indoor units. By equalizing the residual values ​​of a plurality of indoor units, it is possible to prevent the residual value of a specific indoor unit from deviating significantly from the planned residual value.

[0197] In the air conditioner leasing support system, the air conditioner comprises a plurality of indoor units, and the processing unit compares the initially predicted residual value (first residual value) with the actual predicted residual value (second residual value) for the air conditioner, and notifies a predetermined terminal of recommended operation information encouraging the indoor units to be operated in descending order of residual value based on the operating history according to the result of the comparison. With this configuration, by informing the user of the priority order of use of the indoor units, it is possible to equalize the residual values ​​of the plurality of indoor units.

[0198] In the above-mentioned air conditioner leasing support system, the air conditioner is equipped with a plurality of outdoor units, and the processing unit compares the initial predicted residual value (first residual value) with the actual predicted residual value (second residual value) for the air conditioner, and, depending on the result of the comparison, operates the outdoor units in order of highest residual value based on the operating history.

[0199] According to this configuration, the residual values ​​of a plurality of outdoor units can be equalized. By equalizing the residual values ​​of a plurality of outdoor units, it is possible to prevent the residual value of a specific outdoor unit from deviating significantly from the scheduled residual value.

[0200] In the above-mentioned air conditioner leasing support system, the air conditioner is equipped with multiple outdoor units, and the processing unit compares the initial predicted residual value (first residual value) with the actual predicted residual value (second residual value) for the air conditioner, and operates each outdoor unit so that the residual values ​​of the multiple outdoor units are equal depending on the result of the comparison.

[0201] According to this configuration, the residual values ​​of a plurality of outdoor units can be equalized. By equalizing the residual values ​​of a plurality of outdoor units, it is possible to prevent the residual value of a specific outdoor unit from deviating significantly from the scheduled residual value.

[0202] In the above-mentioned air conditioner leasing support system, the processing unit compares the initially predicted residual value (first residual value) with the actual predicted residual value (second residual value) for the air conditioner, and depending on the results of the comparison, identifies from the operating history those items of the indoor unit operating conditions and the outdoor unit operating conditions that were operated under conditions different from the operating conditions at the start of the lease, and notifies a specified terminal of the identified items.

[0203] According to this configuration, by notifying the user that past operation has deviated from the operating conditions, the user is prompted to review operation, thereby preventing the residual value of the indoor unit and the residual value of the outdoor unit from deviating from the scheduled residual value.

[0204] In the air conditioner lease support system described above, the management device includes a calculation unit that calculates at least the actual predicted residual value (second residual value) of the initial predicted residual value (first residual value) and the actual predicted residual value (second residual value), and the calculation unit acquires the operating record of the air conditioner at a predetermined time during the lease period and calculates the actual predicted residual value (second residual value) of the air conditioner at the time of lease expiration based on the operating record. With this configuration, the operating record of the air conditioner is used for the purpose of calculating the actual predicted residual value (second residual value), so the actual predicted residual value (second residual value) can be calculated accurately.

[0205] In the above air conditioner leasing support system, the calculation unit further acquires environmental information related to the installation location of the air conditioner, and calculates a performance predicted residual value (second residual value) of the air conditioner at the time of lease expiration based on the environmental information and the operating history of the air conditioner. According to this configuration, since the environmental information and operating history of the air conditioner are used for the purpose of calculating the performance predicted residual value (second residual value), the performance predicted residual value (second residual value) can be calculated accurately.

[0206] In the air conditioner leasing support system described above, the calculation unit further acquires maintenance history information of the air conditioner, and calculates a performance predicted residual value (second residual value) of the air conditioner at the time of lease expiration based on the maintenance history information and the operating record of the air conditioner. According to this configuration, since the maintenance history information and operating record of the air conditioner are used for the purpose of calculating the performance predicted residual value (second residual value), the performance predicted residual value (second residual value) can be calculated accurately.

[0207] In the above air conditioner leasing support system, the calculation unit further acquires maintenance history information of the air conditioner, and calculates a predicted actual residual value (second residual value) of the air conditioner at the time of lease expiration based on the maintenance history information, the environmental information, and the operating history of the air conditioner. According to this configuration, the maintenance history information, environmental information, and operating history of the air conditioner are used for the purpose of calculating the predicted actual residual value (second residual value), so that the predicted actual residual value (second residual value) can be calculated accurately.

[0208] In the air conditioner leasing support system described above, the calculation unit calculates an initial predicted residual value (first residual value) of the air conditioner at the time of lease expiration based on initial operating conditions of the air conditioner that were preset at the beginning of the lease. According to this configuration, since the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner are used for the purpose of calculating the initial predicted residual value (first residual value), the initial predicted residual value (first residual value) can be calculated accurately.

[0209] In the above air conditioner leasing support system, the calculation unit further acquires environmental information related to the installation location of the air conditioner, and calculates an initial predicted residual value (first residual value) of the air conditioner at the time of lease expiration based on the environmental information and the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner. According to this configuration, since the environmental information and the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner are used for the purpose of calculating the initial predicted residual value (first residual value), the initial predicted residual value (first residual value) can be calculated accurately.

[0210] In the air conditioner leasing support system described above, the calculation unit further acquires scheduled maintenance information that is predetermined for the air conditioner, and calculates an initial predicted residual value (first residual value) of the air conditioner at the time of lease expiration based on the scheduled maintenance information and the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner. According to this configuration, since the scheduled maintenance information and the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner are used for the purpose of calculating the initial predicted residual value (first residual value), the initial predicted residual value (first residual value) can be calculated accurately.

[0211] In the above air conditioner leasing support system, the calculation unit further acquires scheduled maintenance information that is predetermined for the air conditioner, and calculates an initial predicted residual value (first residual value) of the air conditioner at the time of lease expiration based on the scheduled maintenance information, the environmental information, and the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner. According to this configuration, the scheduled maintenance information, environmental information, and initial operating conditions of the air conditioner are used for the purpose of calculating the initial predicted residual value (first residual value), so that the initial predicted residual value (first residual value) can be calculated accurately.

[0212] In the air conditioner leasing support system described above, the calculation unit acquires durability information for each part that constitutes the air conditioner, calculates a first part residual value for each of the parts at lease expiration based on the durability information and operating conditions of each of the parts, calculates a multiplied value for each of the parts by multiplying the first part residual value by its contribution rate to the air conditioner, and adds up the multiplied values ​​for each of the parts to calculate the initially predicted residual value (first residual value) of the air conditioner at lease expiration. With this configuration, the first part residual value of each part is found based on the durability information and operating conditions of each part, and the residual value of the air conditioner is found based on the first part residual value of each part, so that the initially predicted residual value (first residual value) can be calculated accurately.

[0213] In the above-mentioned air conditioner leasing support system, the calculation unit acquires durability information of each part that constitutes the air conditioner and the part usage history of each part that constitutes the air conditioner as the operating history of the air conditioner at a specified time during the lease period, calculates a second part residual value of each of the parts at the time of lease expiration based on the durability information of each part and the part usage history, calculates a multiplied value for each of the parts by multiplying the second part residual value and its contribution rate to the air conditioner, and calculates the actual predicted residual value (second residual value) of the air conditioner at the time of lease expiration by adding up the multiplied values ​​for each of the parts.

[0214] According to this configuration, the second part residual value of each part is calculated based on the durability information of each part and the part usage history, and the residual value of the air conditioner is calculated based on the second part residual value of each part, so that the actual predicted residual value (second residual value) can be accurately calculated.

[0215] <First embodiment of the support system> The air conditioner leasing support system will be described below. The air conditioner 2 lease support system 10 manages the residual value of the air conditioner 2 to be leased, and executes a predetermined process when it predicts that the predicted residual value (hereinafter, "actual predicted residual value (second residual value)") will deviate from the initially planned residual value (hereinafter, "initial predicted residual value (first residual value)"). The present embodiment will be described below.

[0216] The residual value of an air conditioner 2 indicates the remaining value obtained by subtracting the value that has decreased due to use of the air conditioner 2 from the initial usage value that is preset for the air conditioner 2. In one example, the initial usage value is defined as 100. The value of an air conditioner 2 that has become unusable due to wear and tear is defined as 0. The residual value is expressed as a percentage.

[0217] The initial predicted residual value indicates the residual value at the end of the lease that is set at the beginning of the lease for the leased air conditioner 2. The actual predicted residual value indicates the residual value at the end of the lease that is predicted for the leased air conditioner 2 during the lease.

[0218] In this embodiment, the lease support system 10 predicts the deviation between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value. In one example, the lease support system 10 calculates the actual predicted residual value and predicts the deviation based on the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value. In another example, the lease support system 10 does not calculate the actual predicted residual value and predicts the deviation based on the actual performance.

[0219] The lease support system 10 may calculate an initial predicted residual value and present the initial predicted residual value to the lease contract holder as an estimate of the residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of the initial contract. By presenting the initial predicted residual value, the lease contract holder can confirm the appropriateness of the lease fee. The lease support system 10 may calculate an actual predicted residual value during the lease and present the actual predicted residual value to the lease contract holder or the user of the air conditioner 2. By presenting the actual predicted residual value, the current usage status of the air conditioner 2 can be understood in relation to the future residual value.

[0220] 10, the lease support system 10 includes a management device 3. The management device 3 manages the air conditioners 2. The management device 3 manages one or more air conditioners 2 that are leased. Lease means "operating lease." The air conditioner 2 that is leased is lent to a user. The user can use the air conditioner 2 during the lease period.

[0221] In the lease contract, the lease period and the residual value at the end of the lease (hereinafter referred to as the "initial estimated residual value") are determined. The lease fee is set based on the value obtained by subtracting the initial estimated residual value at the end of the lease from the original value of the air conditioner 2 at the start of the lease.

[0222] The air conditioner 2 managed by the management device 3 will be described with reference to FIG. The air conditioner 2 is the subject of a lease contract. The air conditioner 2 is configured to be able to communicate with a management device 3. The air conditioner 2 is configured to be able to transmit the operation record of the air conditioner 2 to the management device 3. An example of the air conditioner 2 is given below.

[0223] The air conditioner 2 includes an indoor unit 11 and an outdoor unit 12. The air conditioner 2 may include refrigerant piping 13 connecting the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 12. The indoor unit 11 includes an indoor heat exchanger 14 and an electronic expansion valve 15 that expands the refrigerant. The outdoor unit 12 includes an outdoor heat exchanger 16, a compressor 17 that compresses the refrigerant, a control unit 18, and a communication unit 19. The refrigerant piping 13 is configured as a closed circuit including the indoor heat exchanger 14 and the outdoor heat exchanger 16. The communication unit 19 communicates with the management device 3.

[0224] The operation of the air conditioner 2 changes depending on the settings of the control setting variables. The control setting variables include at least one of the operating mode of the air conditioner 2, the room temperature setting, the thermostat setting state, the air volume of the indoor unit 11, the air direction of the indoor unit 11, the start / stop times of the air conditioner 2, the evaporation temperature, the condensation temperature, and the capacity values ​​of the operating components that make up the air conditioner 2.

[0225] The operation modes include normal operation and energy saving operation. The room temperature setting is the indoor target temperature in air conditioning control. The thermostat setting indicates the setting of the switching operation temperature of the thermostat. The air conditioner 2 start / stop time indicates the operation start time and operation stop time when the air conditioner 2 is operated according to a preset schedule. The evaporation temperature indicates the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the heat exchanger operating as an evaporator. The evaporation temperature may be the temperature of the heat exchanger operating as an evaporator. The condensation temperature indicates the condensation temperature of the refrigerant in the heat exchanger operating as a condenser. The condensation temperature may be the temperature of the heat exchanger operating as a condenser. The operating parts that make up the air conditioner 2 include a compressor 17, a heat exchanger, and a fan.

[0226] The operation mode, the set temperature, the air volume and the air direction of the indoor unit 11 are changed by an operating device (called a remote control) provided on the air conditioner 2. The setting state of the thermostat and the start / stop times of the air conditioner 2 are changed by correcting the setting information recorded in the control unit 18. The evaporation temperature is changed by changing the target evaporation temperature held by the control unit 18. The evaporation temperature is changed by changing the target condensation temperature held by the control unit 18. The capacity value of the operating parts constituting the air conditioner 2 can be changed by restricting the operation. If the operating part is a heat exchanger, the capacity of the heat exchanger is changed by closing part of the passage through which the refrigerant flows. If the operating part is a compressor 17, the capacity is changed by restricting the upper limit of the operating frequency. If the operating part is a fan, the capacity is changed by controlling the fan motor.

[0227] The control unit 18 of the air conditioner 2 collects operating history related to the operation of the air conditioner 2. The operating history includes the accumulated operating time of the compressor 17, the accumulated on / off frequency of the compressor 17, the on / off frequency per unit time of the compressor 17, and the accumulated operating time of the indoor unit 11. The communication unit 19 of the air conditioner 2 outputs the operating history of the air conditioner 2 to the management device 3 periodically or in response to a request command from the management device 3.

[0228] The management device 3 will be described with reference to FIG. The management device 3 may be directly connected to the air conditioner 2. The management device 3 may be connected to the air conditioner 2 via a network N. The network N includes at least one of a local network and the Internet. In this embodiment, the management device 3 is connected to the air conditioner 2 via the network N.

[0229] In addition to the air conditioner 2, the management device 3 further manages a specific device 20. The specific device 20 communicates with the management device 3. The communication includes one-way and two-way communication. Examples of the specific device 20 include an information terminal 24 and an alarm device 25. The specific device 20 has identification information for communication. The identification information includes a communication address unique to the specific device 20. The management device 3 stores at least the identification information of the specific device 20.

[0230] The management device 3 associates the air conditioner 2 with a predetermined device 20 as a transmission destination of information related to the air conditioner 2. A plurality of predetermined devices 20 may be associated with one air conditioner 2. The management device 3 associates the air conditioner 2 with the predetermined device 20 and stores the information. The management device 3 transmits information calculated related to the air conditioner 2 to the predetermined device 20 associated with the air conditioner 2. In one example, the management device 3 transmits information related to the deviation between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value calculated by the management device 3 to the predetermined device 20 in response to a request. The management device 3 may transmit the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value calculated by the management device 3 to the predetermined device 20 in response to a request. The management device 3 may transmit the actual predicted residual value to the predetermined device 20 periodically or at a scheduled time.

[0231] The management device 3 may manage a plurality of air conditioners 2. The plurality of air conditioners 2 may each have a different user or manager of the air conditioners 2. The management device 3 associates a predetermined device 20 with each of the plurality of air conditioners 2 as a transmission destination of information of the air conditioner 2.

[0232] The information terminal 24 serving as the predetermined device 20 preferably includes a display unit for displaying information. The information terminal 24 includes a mobile phone, a smartphone, a notebook computer, and a personal computer.

[0233] The notification device 25 as the predetermined device 20 notifies the surroundings based on receiving information from the air conditioner 2. The notification device 25 includes an audio output device and a light output device. In one example, the notification device 25 is incorporated in the air conditioner 2. The notification device 25 may also be connected to the air conditioner 2. The notification device 25 is configured to be able to communicate with the management device 3. The notification device 25 includes an notification unit 26 and a communication unit 27 that communicates with the management device 3. The notification unit 26 outputs information by audio or light. The audio is a predetermined audio for calling attention. The light is emitted toward an attention calling board including an attention calling character or an attention calling mark.

[0234] The management device 3 includes a storage unit 21. The storage unit 21 stores the lease period and the initially predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2. The initially predicted residual value may be set by an agreement between the leasing company and the user, or may be calculated by the calculation unit 23 as described below. The storage unit 21 stores information acquired by the management device 3.

[0235] 10, the management device 3 includes a processing unit 30. Preferably, the management device 3 may include a calculation unit 23. The calculation unit 23 calculates at least the actual forecast residual value out of the initial forecast residual value and the actual forecast residual value.

[0236] The processing unit 30 will be described with reference to FIGS. The processor 30 predicts the deviation between the initially predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value. The deviation serves as an index showing whether the operation of the air conditioner 2 is appropriate relative to the initially predicted schedule.

[0237] 12, when predicting a deviation, the processing unit 30 executes at least one of a first process and a second process. First, the first process will be described. In the first process, when the processing unit 30 predicts that the actual forecast residual value will deviate from the initially forecast residual value, it outputs deviation information or a signal relating to the deviation to the predetermined device 20.

[0238] The prediction of deviation by the processing unit 30 includes prediction by the first method and prediction by the second method. The processing unit 30 determines whether or not the actual predicted residual value at the time of lease expiration will deviate from the initially predicted residual value by either the prediction by the first method or the prediction by the second method.

[0239] As shown in Fig. 13, in the first method, the actual forecast residual value is calculated, and the actual forecast residual value is used to forecast the deviation between the initial forecast residual value and the actual forecast residual value. In this case, the processing unit 30 determines that the actual forecast residual value will deviate from the initial forecast residual value at the time of lease expiration when the difference between the initial forecast residual value and the actual forecast residual value is greater than a preset value. In this embodiment, the deviation when the actual forecast residual value is smaller than the initial forecast residual value will be described.

[0240] As shown in FIG. 14, the prediction of the second method predicts that the actual forecast residual value will deviate from the initially forecast residual value based on a preset planned residual value chart. In one example, the processing unit 30 calculates the difference between the residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the prediction time during the lease period and the planned residual value of the air conditioner 2. The planned residual value is a residual value derived from the initial operating conditions at the time of the lease contract. The planned residual value is registered in advance in the memory unit 21. The residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the prediction time is calculated based on the operating performance. If the processing unit 30 determines that the difference between the residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the prediction time and the planned residual value is sufficiently large, it determines that the actual forecast residual value will deviate from the initially forecast residual value at the expiration of the lease.

[0241] In the prediction of the second method, a planned actual performance chart may be used instead of the planned residual value chart. One example of a planned actual performance chart is a chart of the remaining ratio of the cumulative operating time of the compressor 17. The remaining ratio at the start of the lease is set to 100%. The remaining ratio at the end of the lease is set by the lease contract. The remaining ratio is defined as the remaining cumulative operating time / the originally planned cumulative operating time. The remaining cumulative operating time is defined as the difference obtained by subtracting the actual cumulative operating time at the time of prediction from the original cumulative operating time. The remaining ratio chart is set in advance.

[0242] When the processing unit 30 predicts that the actual forecast residual value will deviate from the initial forecast residual value, it outputs deviation information on the deviation or a signal on the deviation to the predetermined device 20. The deviation information on the deviation is information sent to the information terminal 24. The signal on the deviation is a signal sent to the notification device 25.

[0243] The deviation information is information indicating that the actual predicted residual value deviates from the initial predicted residual value. The deviation information includes at least one of text information and audio information. In one example, the deviation information includes information identifying the air conditioner 2, the lease expiration date of the air conditioner 2, the number of days until the lease expiration of the air conditioner 2, the initial predicted residual value and actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2, and a deviation value that is the difference between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value. The deviation information is output from the management device 3 in a format that can be received by the information terminal 24. By notifying the user of the air conditioner 2 of the deviation information, it is possible to make the user of the air conditioner 2 aware that the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration will exceed the initial predicted residual value scheduled at the beginning of the lease.

[0244] The signal regarding the deviation is a signal formed when it is predicted that the actual predicted residual value will deviate from the initial predicted residual value, and is a signal for operating the notification device 25. In one example, the signal regarding the deviation is transmitted to the notification device 25 associated with the air conditioner 2. The notification device 25 operates based on receiving the signal regarding the deviation. For example, if the notification device 25 is an audio output device, the notification device 25 issues a warning sound to call attention upon receiving the signal regarding the deviation. If the notification device 25 is a light output device, the notification device 25 irradiates light onto an attention calling board to call attention upon receiving the signal regarding the deviation. The attention calling board indicates that the residual value will be smaller than expected. The operation of the notification device 25 can make the user of the air conditioner 2 recognize that the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration will exceed the initial predicted residual value scheduled at the beginning of the lease.

[0245] The first process may further include the following process. When the processing unit 30 predicts that the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 will be smaller than the initial predicted residual value, it notifies the specified device 20 of first recommendation information that prompts the user to change the control setting variables of the air conditioner 2 based on the operating history.

[0246] The first encouragement information is information that encourages a user of the air conditioner 2 to reconsider its operation. In one example, the first encouragement information includes text that encourages the user to switch the operation mode from normal operation to energy saving operation, text that encourages the user to change the set temperature higher during cooling and lower during heating, etc. The first encouragement information is sent to the information terminal 24.

[0247] The first process may further include the following process. When the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 is predicted to be smaller than the initially predicted residual value, the processing unit 30 notifies the predetermined device 20 of second recommendation information that encourages maintenance work based on the operating history.

[0248] The maintenance work includes cleaning of the filter and fan casing of the indoor unit 11, and inspection, repair, and replacement of the fan motor, fan belt, drain pan, drain pump, indoor heat exchanger 14, outdoor heat exchanger 16, electronic expansion valve 15, and various solenoid valves. In one example, the second recommendation information includes a sentence recommending performing these maintenance works. The second recommendation information is sent to the information terminal 24.

[0249] Next, the second process will be described. In the second process, if the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 is predicted to deviate from the initially predicted residual value, the processing unit 30 changes the control setting variables of the air conditioner 2 based on the deviation information so as to suppress the deviation at the time of lease expiration.

[0250] The processing unit 30 changes the control setting variables of the air conditioner 2 by issuing a control command to the air conditioner 2. Specifically, the air conditioner 2 has the following configuration. The air conditioner 2 is configured to be remotely operable. The control unit 18 of the air conditioner 2 has a program for changing the control setting variables based on the control command. The air conditioner 2 changes the control setting variables based on the control command. In one example, the control command includes either a command to switch the operation mode from normal operation to energy saving operation, or a command to bring the room temperature setting closer to the outside air temperature.

[0251] The calculation unit 23 will be described with reference to Fig. 10. In one example, the calculation unit 23 is housed in the same case as the processing unit 30 and the storage unit 21. The calculation unit 23 may be configured as a device separate from the processing unit 30 and the storage unit 21. The calculation unit 23 and the processing unit 30 may be distributed and arranged on the network N.

[0252] The calculation unit 23 calculates the actual performance predicted residual value as follows: The calculation unit 23 acquires the operating performance of the air conditioner 2 at a predetermined time during the lease period. The calculation unit 23 calculates the actual performance predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration based on the operating performance.

[0253] Specifically, the calculation unit 23 predicts future operation of the air conditioner 2 based on the operating history of the air conditioner 2. The calculation unit 23 predicts operation of the air conditioner 2 until the lease expiration, assuming that the air conditioner 2 will be used in the future with the same tendency as the operating history of the air conditioner 2. The calculation unit 23 calculates the actual predicted residual value at the time of lease expiration based on the prediction of the operation of the air conditioner 2. The calculation unit 23 calculates the actual predicted residual value at the time of lease expiration by regression analysis of the operating history.

[0254] Preferably, the calculation unit 23 further acquires environmental information related to the installation location of the air conditioner 2. The calculation unit 23 calculates a predicted actual residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration based on the environmental information and the operating record of the air conditioner 2.

[0255] Wear or deterioration of the air conditioner 2 affects the installation environment of the air conditioner 2. The installation environment of the air conditioner 2 includes environmental information of the indoor unit 11 (hereinafter, first environmental information) and environmental information of the outdoor unit 12 (hereinafter, second environmental information).

[0256] The wear and tear or deterioration of the air conditioner 2 affects the environment in which the indoor unit 11 is installed and the environment in which the outdoor unit 12 is installed. For example, in an office where the air environment is managed, the indoor unit 11 wears and deteriorates less. In a restaurant facing a road with heavy traffic, the indoor unit 11 wears and deteriorates faster. In a coastal area where the air has a high salt content, the air conditioner 2 wears and deteriorates faster. For these reasons, the calculation unit 23 preferably calculates the residual value at the time of lease expiration based on the first environmental information and the second environmental information.

[0257] The first environmental information is information on the installation environment of the indoor unit 11. The first environmental information is associated with the air conditioner 2 and stored in advance in the storage unit 21. The first environmental information includes at least one of the region, the regional climate, the altitude, the purpose, the installation location, and the indoor temperature. The region includes at least one of the plains, the coastal area, the mountain area, and the urban area. The regional climate includes at least one of the cold zone, the temperate zone, the dry zone, the tropical zone, the subtropical zone, and the subarctic zone. The altitude includes the lowlands, the mid-highlands, and the highlands. The purpose includes at least one of the office, the food and drink, the sports gym, the shop, the learning, the equipment manufacturing, and the food manufacturing. The installation location indicates the installation location in the room. The installation location includes at least one of the office work room, the dining room, the kitchen, the smoking room, the entrance, the ceiling, and the window. The indoor temperature includes the average temperature and average humidity in the room in summer, and the average temperature and average humidity in the room in winter.

[0258] The second environmental information is information relating to the installation environment of the outdoor unit 12. The second environmental information is associated with the air conditioner 2 and stored in advance in the memory unit 21. The second environmental information includes at least one of the region, the regional climate, the altitude, the installation location, and the outdoor air conditions. The installation location indicates the presence or absence of a shield against wind or rain. Examples of shields include eaves, roofs, and walls. The region, the regional climate, and the altitude are as described above. The outdoor air conditions include the average summer temperature, average humidity, and average winter temperature and average humidity of the region.

[0259] [Example of calculating actual forecast residual value] An example of calculation of the actual performance forecast residual value will be described with reference to Figs. 15 to 17. Here, an example is shown in which the calculation unit 23 calculates the actual performance forecast residual value based on the residual value of the indoor unit 11 at the time of lease expiration (hereinafter, "third residual value") and the residual value of the outdoor unit 12 at the time of lease expiration (hereinafter, "fourth residual value"). Fig. 15 is a diagram summarizing the numerical values ​​used for calculating the residual value of the outdoor unit 12. Fig. 16 is a diagram summarizing the numerical values ​​used for calculating the residual value of the indoor unit 11. Fig. 17 is a diagram explaining a method of calculating the residual value of the air conditioner 2.

[0260] The calculation unit 23 acquires the first environmental information and the second environmental information. Furthermore, the calculation unit 23 acquires the operating history of the indoor unit 11 and the operating history of the outdoor unit 12. The calculation unit 23 calculates the residual values ​​of the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 12 at the time of lease expiration based on the first environmental information, the second environmental information, the operating history of the indoor unit 11, and the operating history of the outdoor unit 12. Furthermore, the calculation unit 23 calculates a predicted actual residual value of the air conditioner 2 based on the residual value of the indoor unit 11 and the residual value of the outdoor unit 12.

[0261] The calculation unit 23 calculates a fourth residual value for the outdoor unit 12 based on the second environmental information and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12. The fourth residual value indicates the residual value of the outdoor unit 12 at the time of lease expiration predicted based on the operating record.

[0262] The operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 include at least one of the operating time period in a day, the number of operating days per year, the maximum load factor, and the total operating time. In one example, the operation of the outdoor unit 12 is defined as the operation of the compressor 17. The operating time period indicates the time period of operation in a day from the operation start time to the operation end time. The number of operating days per year is the number of days in a year excluding the days on which the outdoor unit 12 is not in operation. The maximum load factor indicates the ratio of the load of the outdoor unit 12 to the maximum load for which the outdoor unit 12 is designed. The total operating time indicates, in one example, the accumulated operating time during which the compressor 17 is operating.

[0263] The calculation unit 23 calculates a third residual value for the indoor unit 11 based on the first environmental information and the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11. The third residual value indicates the residual value of the indoor unit 11 at the time of lease expiration predicted based on the operating record.

[0264] The operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 include at least one of the operating time period in one day, the number of operating days per year, the maximum load factor, the total operating time, and the set temperature. In one example, the operation of the indoor unit 11 is defined as the operation of the blower fan. In one example, the total operating time is defined as the accumulated operating time during which the blower fan is operating.

[0265] The calculation unit 23 has the contribution rate of the indoor unit 11 to the air conditioner 2 and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12 to the air conditioner 2, which are preset in the air conditioner 2. The calculation unit 23 calculates the sum of the product of the third residual value of the indoor unit 11 and the contribution rate of the indoor unit 11 and the product of the fourth residual value of the outdoor unit 12 and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12, as the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2. An example of the contribution rate of the indoor unit 11 and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12 is shown in FIG.

[0266] An example of calculation of the fourth residual value of the outdoor unit 12 will be described with reference to Fig. 15. The fourth residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is shown at the bottom of the first column from the right in Fig. 15. The fourth residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is calculated based on basic data. The basic data includes a preset lifespan, an ideal environment in which deterioration of the air conditioner 2 is unlikely to occur, ideal installation conditions under which an excessive load is not imposed, and ideal operating conditions. The ideal operating conditions are operating conditions under which the air conditioner 2 can be operated without problems over its lifespan when the air conditioner 2 is operated in an ideal environment and under ideal installation conditions.

[0267] The lifespan of the outdoor unit 12 in this embodiment is set to eight years. Regarding the ideal environment, the region is set as "plains," the regional climate as "temperate," the altitude as "lowland," the installation location as "with shelter," and the outside air conditions as "summer, temperature 40°C, humidity 70%, winter, -2°C, humidity, 15%."

[0268] Regarding the ideal installation conditions, the elevation difference in the refrigerant system is set to "small," and the maximum indoor unit connection rate in a system including a plurality of indoor units 11 is set to "80%." Regarding the ideal operating conditions, the operating hours in one day are set to "8:00 to 20:00", the number of operating days per year is set to "200 days", the maximum load factor is set to "80%, and the total operating time is set to "9,600 hours".

[0269] The fourth residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is calculated based on a ratio determined by comparing the residual value calculation items with basic data. The residual value calculation items include second environmental information, which is the environment of the outdoor unit 12, operating history, and installation conditions of the outdoor unit 12.

[0270] Specifically, the fourth residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is calculated as the product of a first ratio of each item of the second environmental information to the reference data of the environment, a second ratio of each item of the operating performance to the reference data of the operating conditions, and a third ratio of each item of the installation conditions to the reference data of the installation conditions. The first ratio, the second ratio, and the third ratio can be regarded as a kind of residual value for each item. The first ratio and the third ratio are set in advance. The second ratio is determined by calculation.

[0271] The first ratio of each item of the second environmental information is preset as a ratio to the reference data. For example, since the coastal areas are more susceptible to salt damage than the plains, the first ratio of the coastal areas is set to 98%.

[0272] The second ratio of the operating results is calculated as a ratio to the reference data. For example, if the total operating time of the outdoor unit 12 in the basic data is 9,600 hours and the total operating time at the end of the lease estimated from the results is 5,100 hours, the remaining operable time is the value obtained by subtracting the estimated total operating time (5,100 hours) from the total operating time in the basic data (hereinafter, the difference time). The second ratio as the residual value is calculated as 4,500 hours (difference time) / 9,600 hours. In this case, the second ratio is 47%.

[0273] The third ratio of the installation condition is preset as a ratio to the reference data. For example, when the refrigerant system height difference is medium, the air conditioning efficiency is lower than when the refrigerant system height difference is small, and there is a risk of the operation time of the outdoor unit 12 increasing, so the third ratio is set to 98%.

[0274] 15, the fourth residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is calculated as 45% by multiplying the first ratio, the second ratio, and the third ratio. If the fourth residual value were calculated based only on the total operating time, the fourth residual value would be 47%, but in this embodiment, since the second environmental information and installation conditions are reflected, the fourth residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is lower than 47%.

[0275] The third residual value of the indoor unit 11 can be calculated in the same manner as that of the outdoor unit 12. Fig. 16 shows a first ratio of the first environmental information to the reference data for the environment, a second ratio of the operating performance to the reference data for the operating conditions, and a third ratio of the installation conditions to the reference data for the installation conditions, for the indoor unit 11. The third residual value of the indoor unit 11 is shown at the bottom of the first column from the right in Fig. 16. In the example shown in Fig. 18, the third residual value of the indoor unit 11 is 45%.

[0276] The actual performance forecast residual value of the air conditioner 2 is calculated as described above. That is, the calculation unit 23 calculates the sum of the product of the third residual value of the indoor unit 11 and the contribution rate of the indoor unit 11 and the product of the fourth residual value of the outdoor unit 12 and the contribution rate of the outdoor unit 12 as the actual performance forecast residual value of the air conditioner 2.

[0277] 17, in this embodiment, the actual performance forecast residual value of the air conditioner 2 is calculated as 45%×50%+45%×50%, which is 45%. The above calculation example of the actual performance forecast residual value can be applied to the calculation of other residual values.

[0278] Another example of a method for calculating the actual forecast residual value will be described with reference to FIG. The calculation unit 23 may further acquire maintenance history information of the air conditioner 2, and calculate a predicted actual residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration based on the maintenance history information and the operating record of the air conditioner 2.

[0279] Wear or deterioration of the air conditioner 2 affects the maintenance history of the air conditioner 2. For example, when maintenance is performed regularly, wear or deterioration of the air conditioner 2 will be slower than when maintenance is not performed. Therefore, preferably, the calculation unit 23 calculates the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration based on the maintenance history information and the operating record of the air conditioner 2, as described above.

[0280] The calculation unit 23 acquires the maintenance history information from the storage unit 21. The maintenance history information of the air conditioner 2 is associated with the air conditioner 2 and stored in the storage unit 21 each time maintenance is performed. The maintenance history information includes at least one of the histories of inspection, repair, and replacement of the filter of the indoor unit 11, cleaning of the fan casing, the fan motor, the fan belt, the drain pan, the drain pump, the indoor heat exchanger 14, the outdoor heat exchanger 16, the electronic expansion valve 15, and various solenoid valves.

[0281] The actual performance forecast residual value of the air conditioner 2 is calculated as the product of the actual performance forecast residual value calculated by a predetermined calculation method and a fourth ratio regarding maintenance. The fourth ratio is set in advance as a ratio to standard maintenance data (see FIG. 18).

[0282] In this embodiment, standard maintenance is general maintenance performed once a year and simple maintenance performed once a month. The ratio of standard maintenance is 100%. As shown in FIG. 18, if general maintenance is performed 0.9 times a year on average and simple maintenance is performed 0.9 times a month on average, the ratio of maintenance results to standard maintenance is defined as 90%. In the case of such maintenance results, the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 is 90% of the standard residual value compared to the case where standard maintenance is completely performed. For example, if the actual predicted residual value calculated by the predetermined calculation method is 45% and the maintenance results are 90%, the actual predicted residual value is calculated to be 40.5%.

[0283] Furthermore, preferably, the calculation unit 23 further acquires maintenance history information for the air conditioner 2, and calculates the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration based on the maintenance history information, environmental information, and operating history of the air conditioner 2. According to this method, the actual predicted residual value can be calculated more accurately.

[0284] 19, the calculation unit 23 may calculate the actual predicted residual value based on the residual value of each part as follows. In one example, the storage unit 21 stores the parts that make up the air conditioner 2 and the durability information of each part. The calculation unit 23 acquires the durability information of each part that makes up the air conditioner 2 and the part usage history of each part that makes up the air conditioner 2 as the operating history of the air conditioner 2 at a specified time during the lease period.

[0285] The durability information includes at least one of the durability time and maximum frequency of the part. The part usage record indicates the usage record of the part. The usage record includes at least one of the accumulated usage time and the accumulated number of uses. When calculating the actual predicted residual value, the calculation unit 23 acquires the durability information of the part from the storage unit 21. The usage record is reset by replacement of the part. The part usage record is estimated from the operation record of the air conditioner 2. The estimation method is specified in advance. When the part is the compressor 17, the operation record of the air conditioner 2 and the part usage record of the compressor 17 approximately match, so the part usage record is calculated as the operation record of the air conditioner 2 x 1. When the part is replaced, the part history of the air conditioner 2 is updated by the person replacing the part. When calculating the actual predicted residual value, the calculation unit 23 acquires the operation record and the part history from the air conditioner 2.

[0286] Calculation unit 23 calculates the second part residual value of each part at the time of lease expiration based on the durability information and part usage history of each part. The second part residual value is the residual value of the part predicted based on the part usage history during the lease. Calculation unit 23 calculates a multiplied value by multiplying the second part residual value and the contribution rate to air conditioner 2 for each part, and calculates the actual predicted residual value of air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration by adding up the multiplied values ​​of each part.

[0287] An example of calculation of the residual value of part A constituting the outdoor unit 12 will be described with reference to FIG. The second part residual value of part A is calculated based on the operating record, durability information of part A, and a correction ratio (correction coefficient) for the durability information.

[0288] The correction ratio for the durability information is preset as a ratio to the reference data for each item of the second environmental information. For example, since there is a risk of salt damage in coastal areas compared to plain areas, the correction ratio for part A in coastal areas is set to 80%. The correction ratio has a different value for each part. For example, for a part that is resistant to salt, the correction ratio is defined as 100%. Metal parts such as the outer panel of the outdoor unit 12 and the fins of the outdoor heat exchanger 16 are vulnerable to salt, so the correction ratio is set to a low value.

[0289] The service life information is preferably corrected based on a correction ratio to the service life information. For example, if the service life information is the service life of part A, the service life value after correction is defined as the product of the service life and the correction ratio. In this way, the service life is corrected by the second environment information.

[0290] In the example shown in FIG. 19, each item of the second environmental information is the same as the basic data except for "area". The area is set to "coastal area". The correction ratio of the second environmental information is defined as the product of each item of the second environmental information. In this embodiment, the correction ratio of the second environmental information is calculated to be 80%. In this case, the useful life is corrected from 20,000 hours to 16,000 hours (see the corrected useful life in FIG. 19).

[0291] If the estimated operating time at the end of the lease, estimated from the usage history of part A, is 4,800 hours, the remaining available operating time is the difference between 16,000 hours and 4,800 hours (difference time). In this example, the difference time is 11,200 hours. The residual value of part A is defined as the ratio of the difference time to the uncorrected useful life. In this example, the residual value of part A is 56%.

[0292] Fig. 20 is a diagram summarizing the residual value of parts and the contribution rate of parts. As shown in Fig. 20, the actual forecast residual value of the outdoor unit 12 is defined as the sum of the products of the residual value of each of the multiple parts and the contribution rate of the part. The actual forecast residual value of the indoor unit 11 can be calculated using a similar calculation method.

[0293] [Example of calculation of initial forecast residual value] The calculation unit 23 may calculate an initially predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2. An example of the calculation of the initially predicted residual value will be described below. The initial estimated residual value is the residual value at the time of lease expiration that is preset at the beginning of the lease.

[0294] The calculation unit 23 acquires environmental information relating to the installation location of the air conditioner 2, and calculates the initial predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration based on the environmental information and the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner 2.

[0295] As described above, wear and tear or deterioration of the air conditioner 2 affects the installation environment of the air conditioner 2. Therefore, the calculation unit 23 calculates the initial predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration based on the environmental information and the initial operating conditions. The initial operating conditions are operating conditions that are set at the time of the lease contract.

[0296] Preferably, the calculation unit 23 further acquires scheduled maintenance information that is predetermined for the air conditioner 2, and calculates an initial predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration based on the scheduled maintenance information and the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner 2.

[0297] The future wear or deterioration of the air conditioner 2 affects the maintenance performed on the air conditioner 2. For example, when maintenance is scheduled to be performed periodically, wear or deterioration of the air conditioner 2 will be slower than when maintenance is not performed. Therefore, preferably, the calculation unit 23 calculates the initial predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration based on the scheduled maintenance information and the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner 2, as described above. The calculation unit 23 acquires the scheduled maintenance information from the storage unit 21. The scheduled maintenance information of the air conditioner 2 is set in advance for the air conditioner 2. The scheduled maintenance information is determined by the lease contract. The scheduled maintenance information includes at least one of inspection, repair, and replacement of the filter, fan casing cleaning, fan motor, fan belt, drain pan, drain pump, indoor heat exchanger 14, outdoor heat exchanger 16, electronic expansion valve 15, and various solenoid valves of the indoor unit 11.

[0298] Preferably, the calculation unit 23 further acquires scheduled maintenance information that is predetermined for the air conditioner 2, and calculates an initial predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration based on the scheduled maintenance information, the environmental information, and the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner 2. This makes it possible to calculate the initial predicted residual value more accurately.

[0299] The calculation unit 23 may calculate the initial predicted residual value based on the residual value of each part as follows. In one example, the calculation unit 23 acquires durability information of each part constituting the air conditioner 2. The calculation unit 23 calculates a first part residual value of each part at the time of lease expiration based on the durability information and operating conditions of each part. The first part residual value is the residual value of the part predicted at the start of the lease. The calculation unit 23 calculates a multiplied value by multiplying the first part residual value and the contribution rate to the air conditioner 2 for each part, and adds up the multiplied values ​​for each part to calculate the initial predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration.

[0300] The initial forecast residual value can be calculated by a method similar to the calculation method of the actual forecast residual value. For example, the calculation unit 23 calculates the initial forecast residual value based on the residual value of the indoor unit 11 at the time of lease expiration ("fifth residual value") and the residual value of the outdoor unit 12 at the time of lease expiration (hereinafter "sixth residual value"). The calculation method of the fifth residual value and the sixth residual value is similar to the calculation method of the third residual value and the fourth residual value.

[0301] [Effect] The operation of the lease assistance system 10 will now be described. According to the lease support system 10, for an air conditioner 2 to be leased, a deviation between an initial predicted residual value and an actual predicted residual value is predicted during the lease. When predicting a deviation between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value, the processing unit 30 performs at least one of the first process and the second process described above. By predicting whether or not a deviation in the residual value will occur at the end of the lease during the lease, it is possible to prevent a deviation in the residual value from occurring.

[0302] The effects of the lease support system 10 will be explained. (1) The processing unit 30 executes at least one of the following (a) and (b): (a) when the processing unit predicts that the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 after use for a set period based on the actual performance of the air conditioner 2 will deviate from the initially predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 after use for a set period predicted before use, the processing unit outputs deviation information or a signal regarding the deviation to the specified device 20. (b) based on the deviation information, the processing unit changes the control setting variables of the air conditioner 2 so that the deviation after use for the set period is suppressed. According to this configuration, when it is predicted that the actual predicted residual value will deviate from the initially predicted residual value, a specified process is performed, making it possible to suppress the actual predicted residual value from deviating from the initially predicted residual value.

[0303] (2) The control setting variables include at least one of the operation mode of the air conditioner 2, the room temperature setting, the setting state of the thermostat, the air volume of the indoor unit 11, the air direction of the indoor unit 11, the start / stop times of the air conditioner 2, the evaporation temperature, the condensation temperature, and the capacity values ​​of the operating components that make up the air conditioner 2. With this configuration, the operation of the air conditioner 2 can be changed by at least one of these control setting variables.

[0304] (3) The processing unit 30 compares the initial forecast residual value with the actual forecast residual value and performs at least one of the following (a) to (d). (a) When the actual forecast residual value is predicted to be smaller than the initial forecast residual value, the processing unit 30 notifies the specified device 20 of first recommendation information that prompts the user to change the control setting variables of the air conditioner 2 based on the actual performance. (b) When the actual predicted residual value is predicted to be smaller than the initial predicted residual value, the processing unit 30 notifies the predetermined device 20 of second recommendation information that encourages maintenance work based on the actual performance. (c) The processing unit 30 notifies the specified terminal of recommended operation information encouraging the operation of the multiple indoor units 11 in order of highest residual value based on actual performance, based on the results of the comparison between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value. (d) Depending on the result of comparing the initial predicted residual value with the actual predicted residual value, the processing unit 30 identifies from the actual performance which of the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 were operated under conditions different from the initial operating conditions, and notifies the specified terminal of the identified items.

[0305] According to this configuration, at least one of the following effects (a) to (d) can be obtained. (a) Since the possibility of changing the control setting variables is increased, deviation of the actual forecast residual value from the initial forecast residual value can be suppressed. (b) Since the possibility that maintenance work on the air conditioner 2 will be performed is increased, it is possible to suppress the deviation of the actual predicted residual value from the initially predicted residual value. (c) By informing users of the priority order of use of the indoor units 11, the residual values ​​of a plurality of indoor units 11 can be equalized. (d) By notifying the user that past operation has deviated from the initial operating conditions, the user is prompted to review his / her operation, and therefore, the deviation of the actual predicted residual value from the initial predicted residual value can be suppressed.

[0306] (4) The processing unit 30 predicts whether the actual forecast residual value of the air conditioner 2 will deviate from the initially forecasted residual value. When predicting the deviation between the actual forecast residual value and the initially forecasted residual value, the processing unit 30 executes at least one of the first process and the second process described above. According to this configuration, a predetermined process is performed during the lease period when it is predicted that the residual value at lease expiration will deviate from the planned residual value, so that the deviation of the residual value from the planned residual value can be suppressed.

[0307] (5) When the actual forecast residual value is predicted to be smaller than the initial forecast residual value, the processing unit 30 notifies the predetermined device 20 of first recommendation information that prompts a change in the control setting variables of the air conditioner 2 based on the operating performance. With this configuration, the possibility that the control setting variables will be changed is increased, so that the actual forecast residual value can be brought closer to the initial forecast residual value.

[0308] (6) When the actual forecast residual value is predicted to be smaller than the initial forecast residual value, the processing unit 30 notifies the predetermined device 20 of second recommendation information that encourages maintenance work based on the operating performance. This configuration increases the likelihood that maintenance work will be performed on the air conditioner 2. When maintenance is performed, the air conditioning efficiency of the air conditioner is improved and the frequency of use of the air conditioner decreases, so that the actual forecast residual value can gradually approach the initial forecast residual value.

[0309] (7) The calculation unit 23 calculates the actual forecast residual value based on the operating record. According to this configuration, the operating record of the air conditioner 2 is used for the purpose of calculating the actual forecast residual value, so that the actual forecast residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0310] (8) The calculation unit 23 may calculate the actual performance forecast residual value based on the environmental information and the operating history of the air conditioner 2. According to this configuration, the environmental information and the operating history of the air conditioner 2 are used for the purpose of calculating the actual performance forecast residual value, so that the actual performance forecast residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0311] (9) The calculation unit 23 may calculate the actual performance forecast residual value based on the maintenance history information and the operating record of the air conditioner 2. According to this configuration, the maintenance history information and the operating record of the air conditioner 2 are used for the purpose of calculating the actual performance forecast residual value, so that the actual performance forecast residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0312] (10) The calculation unit 23 may calculate the actual performance forecast residual value based on the maintenance history information, environmental information, and operating performance of the air conditioner 2. According to this configuration, the maintenance history information, environmental information, and operating performance of the air conditioner 2 are used for the purpose of calculating the actual performance forecast residual value, so that the actual performance forecast residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0313] (11) The calculation unit 23 calculates the initial predicted residual value based on the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner 2 that were preset at the beginning of the lease. According to this configuration, the initial predicted residual value can be calculated accurately because the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner 2 are used for the purpose of calculating the initial predicted residual value.

[0314] (12) The calculation unit 23 further calculates the environmental information and the initial predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2. According to this configuration, the environmental information and the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner 2 are used for the purpose of calculating the initial predicted residual value, so that the initial predicted residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0315] (13) The calculation unit 23 may calculate the initial predicted residual value based on the scheduled maintenance information and the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner 2. According to this configuration, the scheduled maintenance information and the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner 2 are used for the purpose of calculating the initial predicted residual value, so that the initial predicted residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0316] (14) The calculation unit 23 may calculate the initial predicted residual value based on the scheduled maintenance information, the environmental information, and the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner 2. According to this configuration, the scheduled maintenance information, the environmental information, and the initial operating conditions of the air conditioner 2 are used for the purpose of calculating the initial predicted residual value, so that the initial predicted residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0317] (15) Calculation unit 23 calculates the first part residual value of each part based on the durability information and operating conditions of each part. Calculation unit 23 calculates a multiplied value for each part by the first part residual value and its contribution rate to the air conditioner 2, and calculates an initial predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 by adding up the multiplied values ​​for each part. With this configuration, the first part residual value of each part is determined based on the durability information and operating conditions of each part, and the residual value of the air conditioner 2 is determined based on the first part residual value of each part, so that the initial predicted residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0318] (16) The calculation unit 23 calculates the second part residual value of each part at the time of lease expiration based on the durability information and part usage history of each part. The calculation unit 23 calculates a multiplied value for each part by the second part residual value and its contribution rate to the air conditioner 2, and calculates the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 at the time of lease expiration by adding up the multiplied values ​​for each part. With this configuration, the second part residual value of each part is obtained based on the durability information and part usage history of each part, and the residual value of the air conditioner 2 is obtained based on the second part residual value of each part, so that the actual predicted residual value can be calculated accurately.

[0319] <Second embodiment of the support system> A lease support system 10 for an air conditioner 2 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 21 and Fig. 22. The same components as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and their description will be omitted. The "difference in residual value" shown in Fig. 22 indicates the value obtained by subtracting the initial predicted residual value from the actual predicted residual value.

[0320] As shown in Fig. 21, in this embodiment, the management device 3 of the lease support system 10 manages an air conditioner 2 equipped with multiple indoor units 11. The processing unit 30 calculates an initial predicted residual value and an actual predicted residual value for each of the multiple indoor units 11. The processing unit 30 compares the initial predicted residual value with the actual predicted residual value for each of the multiple indoor units 11 of the air conditioner 2, and, depending on the result of the comparison, operates the multiple indoor units 11 in descending order of residual value based on the operating history of the indoor units 11.

[0321] The usage status of the multiple indoor units 11 connected in parallel to the outdoor unit 12 varies depending on various factors. For this reason, differences in usage records occur among the multiple indoor units 11 over time.

[0322] In the first example, when multiple indoor units 11 connected in parallel are arranged in one room, differences in the operation time of the indoor units 11 may occur as a result of long-term use, and indoor units 11 with long operation times and indoor units 11 with short operation times may be mixed. This is because there is variation in the ease of starting operation between the indoor units 11 due to various factors such as unevenness in the temperature of the room before the indoor units 11 start operation, variation in the accuracy of the sensors of the indoor units 11, and air flow in the room. Since the indoor environment of the indoor units 11 is prepared by the indoor units 11 that start operation before the other indoor units 11, the operation time of the other indoor units 11 tends to be shorter. As a result, differences in usage records occur between the multiple indoor units 11 in one room, and differences in residual value occur between the multiple indoor units 11.

[0323] In a second example, multiple indoor units 11 connected in parallel may be placed in different rooms. In such a system, the load on the indoor units 11 varies depending on the frequency of use of the room, the amount of solar radiation entering the room, the size of the room, and the ventilation performance of the room, and even if each room is used in the same way, there will be differences in the operating time of the indoor units 11. As a result, differences will occur in the usage records between the multiple indoor units 11, and differences will occur in the residual values ​​between the multiple indoor units 11.

[0324] In such a situation, in this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 22, the processing unit 30 operates the indoor units 11 in descending order of residual value. This makes it possible to equalize the residual values ​​of multiple indoor units 11. By equalizing the residual values ​​of multiple indoor units 11, it is possible to prevent the residual value of a specific indoor unit 11 from deviating significantly from the scheduled residual value.

[0325] Preferably, the processing unit 30 compares the initial predicted residual value with the actual predicted residual value for each of the multiple indoor units 11 of the air conditioner 2, and operates each indoor unit 11 according to the comparison result so that the residual values ​​of the multiple indoor units 11 become equal. For example, the processing unit 30 sets the operation time of the indoor unit 11 to be shorter for an indoor unit 11 having a larger difference between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value.

[0326] Furthermore, the processing unit 30 may compare the initial predicted residual value with the actual predicted residual value for each of the multiple indoor units 11 of the air conditioner 2, and, depending on the results of the comparison, notify a specified information terminal 24 of recommended operation information encouraging the multiple indoor units 11 to be operated in order of highest residual value based on their operating history.

[0327] In one example, the recommended operation information includes information identifying indoor units 11 with a high usage priority and information identifying indoor units 11 with a low usage priority. By informing the user of the usage priority of the indoor units 11, it is possible to equalize the residual values ​​of multiple indoor units 11.

[0328] As in the above second example, when multiple indoor units 11 connected in parallel are arranged in different rooms, the processing unit 30 may store in advance the load applied to the indoor units 11 in each room. Based on the load of each room, the processing unit 30 may notify a predetermined information terminal 24 of information on the room (e.g., the room number) including the indoor unit 11 for which operation is recommended as recommended operation information so that there will be no difference in residual value between the indoor units 11 in each room in the future. In one example, the processing unit 30 notifies the information terminal 24 of recommended operation information that encourages the use of rooms with low solar radiation with priority in summer. The processing unit 30 notifies the information terminal 24 of recommended operation information that encourages the use of rooms with high solar radiation with priority in winter.

[0329] <Third embodiment of the support system> A lease support system 10 for an air conditioner 2 according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 23 and Fig. 24. The same components as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0330] In this embodiment, the management device 3 of the lease support system 10 manages an air conditioner 2 equipped with multiple outdoor units 12. The processing unit 30 calculates an initial predicted residual value and an actual predicted residual value for each of the multiple outdoor units 12. The processing unit 30 compares the initial predicted residual value with the actual predicted residual value for each of the multiple outdoor units 12 of the air conditioner 2, and, depending on the result of the comparison, operates the multiple outdoor units 12 in descending order of the residual value based on the operating history of the outdoor units 12.

[0331] As shown in FIG. 23, the usage status of the multiple outdoor units 12 connected in parallel to the refrigerant circuit varies depending on various factors. For this reason, differences in usage records occur among the multiple outdoor units 12 over time. In such a situation, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 24, the processing unit 30 operates the outdoor units 12 in descending order of the residual value based on the operating records of the multiple outdoor units 12. This makes it possible to equalize the residual values ​​of the multiple outdoor units 12. By equalizing the residual values ​​of the multiple outdoor units 12, it is possible to prevent the residual value of a specific outdoor unit 12 from deviating significantly from the scheduled residual value.

[0332] Preferably, the processing unit 30 compares the initial predicted residual value with the actual predicted residual value for each of the outdoor units 12 of the air conditioner 2, and operates each outdoor unit 12 according to the comparison result so that the residual values ​​of the outdoor units 12 become equal. For example, the processing unit 30 sets the operating time of the outdoor unit 12 to be shorter for an outdoor unit 12 having a larger difference between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value.

[0333] <Fourth embodiment of the support system> A lease support system 10 for an air conditioner 2 according to the third embodiment will be described. The same components as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0334] [Example 1] In this embodiment, the processing unit 30 compares the initial predicted residual value with the actual predicted residual value for the air conditioner 2. Depending on the result of the comparison, the processing unit 30 identifies from the operating history which of the operating conditions of the indoor unit 11 and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit 12 were operated under conditions different from the operating conditions at the start of the lease, and notifies a specified information terminal 24 of the identified items.

[0335] In one example, when the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner 2 is smaller than the initial predicted residual value and the difference between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value is larger than a predetermined value, the processing unit 30 acquires the operating performance up to a predetermined time from the air conditioner 2. The processing unit 30 derives an operating schedule up to the predetermined time from the initial operating conditions based on the lease contract, and compares the operating schedule with the operating performance. From the comparison between the operating schedule and the operating performance, the processing unit 30 identifies items that have been operated under conditions different from the operating conditions at the start of the lease. From the comparison result obtained by comparing the operating schedule with the operating performance, the processing unit creates predetermined information, and notifies the information terminal 24 associated with the air conditioner 2 of the predetermined information.

[0336] The specified information includes items that were operated under conditions different from the operating conditions at the start of the lease. The operating conditions at the start of the lease are, for example, the operating information at the time of the lease contract. The specified information may include information for identifying the air conditioner 2, an initial predicted residual value, and an actual predicted residual value. The specified information may include information suggesting improvements to the operation of the air conditioner 2.

[0337] This notifies the user that past operation has deviated from the operating conditions, encouraging a review of operation, thereby preventing the residual value of the indoor unit 11 and the residual value of the outdoor unit 12 from deviating from the scheduled residual value.

[0338] [Example 2] In this embodiment, the processing unit 30 compares the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value for the air conditioner 2. If there is a discrepancy between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value, the processing unit 30 estimates the factor of the discrepancy between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value. Specifically, the processing unit 30 compares the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value for the air conditioner 2, and estimates the factor of the discrepancy between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value based on the discrepancy between the plan and the actual results in at least one of the environmental information, the installation conditions, the operation information, and the maintenance information. With this configuration, the factor of the discrepancy between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value can be provided.

[0339] Preferably, the processing unit 30 creates information on the factors of the discrepancy between the initial forecast residual value and the actual forecast residual value, and notifies the predetermined information to the information terminal 24 associated with the air conditioner 2. This allows the user of the information terminal 24 to know the factors of the discrepancy between the initial forecast residual value and the actual forecast residual value.

[0340] <Modifications of the support system> In addition to the above-described embodiments, the lease assistance system 10 of the present disclosure may be configured in the following modified examples, or in a form that combines at least two modified examples that are not mutually contradictory.

[0341] The lease support system 10 may be configured to execute at least one of the operation processing of a plurality of indoor units 11 as shown in the third embodiment and the operation processing of a plurality of outdoor units 12 as shown in the fourth embodiment. Specifically, the air conditioner 2 that is the object of management by the lease support system 10 includes a plurality of indoor units 11 and a plurality of outdoor units 12. The processor 30 compares the initial predicted residual value with the actual predicted residual value for the air conditioner 2, and executes at least one of the following (a) and (b).

[0342] (a) The processing unit 30 operates the indoor units 11 in order of the highest residual value based on the performance of the multiple indoor units 11, depending on the result of the comparison between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value. (b) The processing unit 30 operates the outdoor units 12 in order of the highest residual value based on the performance of the multiple outdoor units 12, depending on the result of the comparison between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value.

[0343] This configuration can provide at least one of the following effects (a) and (b). (a) The residual values ​​of multiple indoor units 11 can be equalized. By equalizing the residual values ​​of multiple indoor units 11, it is possible to prevent the residual value of a specific indoor unit 11 from deviating from the initially predicted residual value. (b) The residual values ​​of multiple outdoor units 12 can be equalized. By equalizing the residual values ​​of multiple outdoor units 12, it is possible to prevent the residual value of a specific outdoor unit 12 from deviating from the initially predicted residual value.

[0344] Furthermore, it is preferable that the processing unit 30 compares the initial predicted residual value with the actual predicted residual value for the air conditioner 2, and executes at least one of the following (a) and (b). (a) The processing unit 30 operates each of the indoor units 11 so that the residual values ​​of the multiple indoor units 11 become equal, depending on the result of the comparison between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value. (b) The processing unit 30 operates each of the outdoor units 12 so that the residual values ​​of the outdoor units 12 become equal, depending on the result of the comparison between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value.

[0345] This configuration can provide at least one of the following effects (a) and (b). (a) The residual values ​​of multiple indoor units 11 can be equalized. By equalizing the residual values ​​of multiple indoor units 11, the residual value of a specific indoor unit 11 can be prevented from deviating significantly from the initially predicted residual value. (b) The residual values ​​of multiple outdoor units 12 can be equalized. By equalizing the residual values ​​of multiple outdoor units 12, the residual value of a specific outdoor unit 12 can be prevented from deviating significantly from the initially predicted residual value.

[0346] The prediction of the deviation between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value is not limited to the example shown in the first embodiment. For example, the processing unit 30 may predict the deviation between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value based on a planned chart of the power consumption of the air conditioner 2 and the actual power consumption up to the prediction time. In addition, the processing unit 30 may monitor the operation other than the operating conditions, and predict the deviation between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value based on the operating time other than the operating conditions.

[0347] In the lease support system 10, the initial forecast residual value can be calculated using various calculation methods for the initial forecast residual value shown in the residual value system. In the lease support system 10, the actual forecast residual value can be calculated using various calculation methods for the actual forecast residual value shown in the lease residual value system 1.

[0348] The various technologies disclosed in the description of the lease support system 10 can be applied not only to air conditioners 2 rented out on lease, but also to support for the use of air conditioners 2 rented out in other ways. For example, the various technologies disclosed in the description of the lease support system 10 can be applied to support for the use of air conditioners 2 used by subscription.

[0349] In the case of subscription, the air conditioner 2 can be used continuously for a fixed amount under the specified operating conditions for the use of the air conditioner 2. However, the usage rate of the air conditioner 2 varies greatly depending on various factors such as climate change, the usage rate of the room in which the air conditioner 2 is installed, and the increase or decrease in the heat load placed on the room in which the air conditioner 2 is installed. On the other hand, the use of the air conditioner 2 is left to the user. For this reason, the air conditioner 2 may be used beyond the range of the specified operating conditions. In such a case, the residual value of the air conditioner 2 may be significantly reduced from the initial planned residual value planned when the air conditioner 2 is rented out by subscription. Conversely, there may be cases where the air conditioner 2 is hardly used and the residual value of the air conditioner 2 is larger than the initial planned residual value planned when the air conditioner 2 is rented out by subscription. According to the various technologies disclosed in the explanation of the lease support system 10, the use of the air conditioner 2 used by subscription can be guided to appropriate use. This makes it possible to suppress the divergence between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value.

[0350] The various technologies disclosed in the explanation of the lease support system 10 may be applied to support for the use of a sold air conditioner 2. In one example, by using the various technologies disclosed in the explanation of the lease support system 10, it is possible to support the use of the air conditioner 2 so that the residual value of the air conditioner 2 becomes "0" after a predetermined period of time.

[0351] The acquisition unit 22, calculation unit 23, and processing unit 30 of the management device 3 may be configured as a circuit including: 1) one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program (software); 2) one or more dedicated hardware circuits, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), that execute at least a part of the various processes; or 3) a combination thereof. The processor includes a CPU and memory, such as RAM and ROM, that stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. The memory, i.e., computer-readable medium, includes any available medium that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0352] Although an embodiment of the residual value calculation system and an embodiment of the support system have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the system described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0353] 1...lease residual value calculation system, 2...air conditioner, 3...management device, 10...lease support system, 11...indoor unit, 12...outdoor unit, 13...refrigerant piping, 14...indoor heat exchanger, 15...electronic expansion valve, 16...outdoor heat exchanger, 17...compressor, 18...control unit, 19...communication unit, 20...specified device, 21...memory unit, 22...acquisition unit, 23...calculation unit, 24...information terminal, 25...alarm device, 26...alarm unit, 27...communication unit, 30...processing unit.

Claims

1. In a support system (10) for an air conditioner (2) including a management device (3) for managing the air conditioner (2), The management device (3) includes a processing unit (30), When predicting that the actual predicted residual value of the air conditioner (2) after use for a set period based on the actual performance of the air conditioner (2) will deviate from the initially predicted residual value of the air conditioner (2) after use for a set period predicted before use, the processing unit (30) executes at least one of outputting deviation information or a signal relating to the deviation to a predetermined device (20) and changing a control setting variable of the air conditioner (2) based on the deviation information so that the deviation after use for the set period is suppressed. Air conditioner support system.

2. The control setting variables include at least one of the operation mode of the air conditioner (2), the room temperature setting, the thermostat setting state, the air volume of the indoor unit (11), the air direction of the indoor unit (11), the start / stop time of the air conditioner (2), the evaporation temperature, the condensation temperature, and the capacity values ​​of the operating components that make up the air conditioner (2). The support system for an air conditioner according to claim 1.

3. The processing section (30) Comparing the initial forecast residual value with the actual forecast residual value; (a) when the actual forecast residual value is predicted to be smaller than the initial forecast residual value, notifying the specified device (20) of first recommendation information that prompts a change in a control setting variable of the air conditioner (2) based on the actual performance; (b) when the actual predicted residual value is predicted to be smaller than the initial predicted residual value, second recommendation information for encouraging a maintenance work based on the actual result is notified to the predetermined device (20). (c) notifying a predetermined terminal of recommended operation information that encourages the indoor units (11) to operate in order of highest residual value based on the actual performance, according to a result of a comparison between the initial predicted residual value and the actual performance predicted residual value; (d) depending on a result of a comparison between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value, identifying from the actual results which of the operating conditions of the indoor unit (11) and the operating conditions of the outdoor unit (12) were operated under conditions different from the initial operating conditions, and notifying a predetermined terminal of the identified items; Execute at least one of the following:

3. The support system for an air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The air conditioner (2) includes a plurality of indoor units (11) and a plurality of outdoor units (12), The processing section (30) Comparing the initial forecast residual value and the actual forecast residual value for the air conditioner (2), (a) operating the indoor units (11) in order of increasing residual value based on the performance of the indoor units (11) according to a comparison result between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value; (b) operating the outdoor units (12) in order of increasing residual value based on the performance of the plurality of outdoor units (12) according to a comparison result between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value; Execute at least one of the following: An air conditioner support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The air conditioner (2) includes a plurality of indoor units (11) and a plurality of outdoor units (12), The processing section (30) Comparing the initial forecast residual value and the actual forecast residual value for the air conditioner (2), (a) operating each of the indoor units (11) so that the residual values ​​of the indoor units (11) become equal to each other according to a result of a comparison between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value; (b) operating each of the outdoor units (12) so that the residual values ​​of the outdoor units (12) become equal to each other depending on a result of a comparison between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value; Execute at least one of the following: An air conditioner support system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The processing unit (30) compares the initial predicted residual value with the actual predicted residual value for the air conditioner (2), and estimates a factor of discrepancy between the initial predicted residual value and the actual predicted residual value based on a discrepancy between a plan and an actual result in at least one of environmental information, installation conditions, operation information, and maintenance information. An air conditioner support system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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