Central air conditioning system and its performance evaluation method

Abstract

To provide a whole building air-conditioning system and a performance determination method for the same capable of accurately determining whether or not an air-conditioner delivers performance that the same is essentially supposed to have.SOLUTION: A performance determination method is for a whole building air-conditioning system 1, installed in a house 2, comprising an air-conditioner 6, duct 7 to supply air Ac conditioned with the air-conditioner 6 to a plurality of habitable rooms 5 and a control section 8 communicably connected to the air-conditioner 6. The performance determination method includes: a storage step in which the control section 8 acquires situation information including at least temperatures at an intake 14 and an outlet 15 of the air-conditioner 6 and an air blow-off amount and causes a storage section to store the situation information; a calculation step in which the control section 8 calculates air-conditioning performance of the air-conditioner 6 at a certain operation time or in a certain operation period based on the stored situation information; and a display step in which the control section 8 displays performance information related to the calculated air-conditioning performance.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a central air-conditioning system and a performance evaluation method thereof. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, various types of central air conditioning systems for homes have been proposed. For example, the following Patent Document 1 describes a central air conditioning system that includes an air conditioner, ducts for supplying air conditioned by the air conditioner to a plurality of rooms, and a control unit communicatively connected to the air conditioner. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-085533 DISCLOSURE OF THEINVENTION [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In a central air-conditioning system, one air conditioner usually serves multiple rooms, so it is extremely important that the air conditioner always performs at its optimum capacity. However, until now, it has not been easy to accurately determine whether an air conditioner is performing at the capacity that is originally expected of it.

[0005] The present invention has been devised in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and its main object is to provide a central air conditioning system and a performance evaluation method thereof that can accurately determine whether or not an air conditioner is performing as expected. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention is a performance assessment method for a whole-house air conditioning system for a residence, which includes an air conditioner, a duct for supplying air conditioned by the air conditioner to a plurality of rooms, and a control unit communicatively connected to the air conditioner, and is characterized in that it includes a storage step in which the control unit acquires status information including at least the temperatures on the inlet and outlet sides of the air conditioner and the blowing air volume and stores the information in a memory unit, a calculation step in which the control unit calculates the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner at a certain operating time or period based on the stored status information, and a display step in which the control unit displays capacity information relating to the calculated air conditioning capacity.

[0007] In the performance assessment method for the whole-building air conditioning system of the present invention, the control unit may further include a maximum operation step in which the air conditioner is operated in a maximum operation mode, and the calculation step may calculate the air conditioning capacity using the status information at the maximum operation mode.

[0008] In the method for determining performance of a central air conditioning system according to the present invention, the control unit may cause the air conditioner to execute the maximum operation step when the temperature on the air inlet side satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0009] In the method for determining performance of a central air-conditioning system according to the present invention, the display step may display the calculated air-conditioning capacity or a ratio thereof to an expected air-conditioning capacity predetermined for the air conditioner.

[0010] In the method for determining performance of a central air-conditioning system according to the present invention, the situation information may further include an outside air temperature.

[0011] In the method for determining performance of a central air-conditioning system according to the present invention, the calculation step may be executed based on predetermined schedule information.

[0012] The method for determining performance of a central air-conditioning system according to the present invention may further include an air-conditioning capacity storage step in which the control unit stores the calculated air-conditioning capacity in a storage unit.

[0013] The present invention is a whole-house air conditioning system for a residential building, comprising an air conditioner, a duct for supplying air conditioned by the air conditioner to a plurality of rooms, and a control unit communicatively connected to the air conditioner, wherein the control unit comprises a memory unit for storing status information including at least the temperatures of the inlet and outlet sides of the air conditioner and the blown air volume, a calculation unit for calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner based on the status information, and a display unit for displaying the air conditioning capacity. Effect of the Invention

[0014] By employing the above steps, the central air-conditioning system of the present invention can accurately determine whether or not the air conditioner is performing as expected. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional view conceptually showing a house in which the central air-conditioning system of the present embodiment is installed. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration of a control unit according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 3] 4 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of a performance determination method for a central air-conditioning system according to the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. It should be understood that the drawings include exaggerated expressions and expressions different from the dimensional ratio of the actual structure in order to help understand the contents of the invention. Furthermore, the same or common elements are given the same reference numerals throughout the embodiments, and duplicated explanations are omitted. Furthermore, the specific configurations shown in the embodiments and drawings are for understanding the contents of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the specific configurations shown in the drawings.

[0017] [Residential] 1 is a cross-sectional view conceptually showing a house 2 in which a central air-conditioning system 1 of the present embodiment is installed. The house 2 of the present embodiment is configured to include an underfloor space 3 and an above-floor space 4. A plurality of rooms 5 are provided in the above-floor space 4. The plurality of rooms 5 of the present embodiment includes a room 5A on the first floor and a room 5B on the second floor. Note that the plurality of rooms 5 may be, for example, configured only with a room 5A on the first floor, or may include rooms on the third floor or higher (not shown), etc.

[0018] [Whole building air conditioning system] The central air-conditioning system 1 of this embodiment includes an air conditioner 6, a duct 7, and a control unit 8.

[0019] [Air conditioner] The air conditioner 6 of this embodiment is housed, for example, inside a chamber box 11. The chamber box 11 is formed in a box shape with a space inside. The chamber box 11 of this embodiment is provided with an air supply port (not shown) for supplying air Ai circulated through a plurality of rooms 5 to the inside, and an outside air intake port (not shown) for supplying outside air (underfloor air) Ao to the inside. The outside air Ao of this embodiment is taken in from the underfloor space 3, for example, via an outside air supply duct 12 and an outside air supply fan 13. The outside air Ao may also be taken in directly from outdoors.

[0020] The air conditioner 6 of this embodiment is configured, for example, as a general home separate type air conditioner. The air conditioner 6 includes an indoor unit 6A and an outdoor unit (not shown) installed outside the house 2 as a set. The indoor unit 6A has an inlet 14 and an outlet 15. The inlet 14 is for taking in air (in this example, a mixture of circulated air Ai and outside air Ao) into a heat exchanger (not shown) provided inside the indoor unit 6A. On the other hand, the outlet 15 is for discharging air Ac conditioned by the heat exchanger. The set temperature and air volume (blowout air volume) of the air conditioner 6 are controlled, for example, by a control unit 8.

[0021] The air conditioner 6 of the present embodiment can, for example, use a built-in sensor or the like to acquire the temperature and humidity on the inlet 14 side and the temperature on the outlet 15 side. Furthermore, the air conditioner 6 can acquire (estimate) the blow-out air volume, for example, from the air volume setting information (TAP1-4).

[0022] The temperature and humidity on the suction port 14 side are the temperature and humidity of the air taken in from the suction port 14 (in this example, a mixture of the circulated air Ai and the outside air Ao). In this embodiment, the temperature and humidity on the suction port 14 side are obtained by measuring the temperature and humidity at the suction port 14. Note that the temperature and humidity on the suction port 14 side may be, for example, the temperature and humidity measured in the space between the suction port 14 and the outside air supply duct 12, within a predetermined range (for example, 10 to 20 cm) from the suction port 14.

[0023] The temperature on the air outlet 15 side in this embodiment is the temperature of air (conditioned air) Ac discharged from the air outlet 15. The temperature on the air outlet 15 side in this embodiment is the temperature at the air outlet 15. Note that the temperature on the air outlet 15 side may be, for example, a temperature measured in the space between the air outlet 15 and the duct 7, within a predetermined range (for example, 10 to 20 cm) from the air outlet 15.

[0024] The blown air volume is the volume of air (conditioned air) Ac discharged from the air outlet 15. In this embodiment, the blown air volume is acquired as the air volume at the air outlet 15. Note that the blown air volume may be an air volume measured within the above range, similar to the temperature on the air outlet 15 side.

[0025] The air conditioner 6 can, for example, acquire the temperature and humidity on the air inlet 14 side, the temperature on the air outlet 15 side, and the blown air volume based on a signal from the control unit 8, and transmit the acquired temperatures, etc. to the control unit 8. Note that the temperature and humidity on the air inlet 14 side, the temperature on the air outlet 15 side, and the blown air volume may be acquired by a sensor (not shown) or the like provided separately from the air conditioner 6.

[0026] [duct] The duct 7 of this embodiment is for supplying air Ac conditioned by the air conditioner 6 to the multiple living rooms 5. One end of the duct 7 of this embodiment is connected to the air conditioner 6 side (in this example, the air outlet 15 side in the chamber box 11). The other end of the duct 7 is connected to the multiple living rooms 5. This allows the duct 7 to communicate between the air conditioner 6 (chamber box 11) and the multiple living rooms 5. The duct 7 of this embodiment includes a first duct 7A connected to a living room 5A on the first floor, and a second duct 7B connected to a living room 5B on the second floor.

[0027] In the present embodiment, the duct 7 is provided with a fan 16 for sending (pressurizing) the air Ac conditioned by the air conditioner 6 to the multiple rooms 5. The fan 16 in the present embodiment is housed in the chamber box 11, but is not limited to this configuration. The fan 16 in the present embodiment includes a first fan 16A connected to the first duct 7A and a second fan 16B connected to the second duct 7B.

[0028] [Control Unit] The control unit 8 of this embodiment is communicatively connected to the air conditioner 6. The control unit 8 of this embodiment is configured by a computer 9, and is installed, for example, on a partition wall of the room 5 or the like.

[0029] 2 is a conceptual diagram showing the configuration of the control unit 8 of this embodiment. The control unit 8 includes, for example, a calculation device 18, a storage device 19 for storing processing procedures and the like, and a working memory 20 for reading the processing procedures and the like from the storage device 19. An input device 21 and an output device 22 are connected to the control unit 8 (calculation device 18).

[0030] The input device 21 of this embodiment can be configured, for example, by operation buttons, a touch panel, or the like provided on the housing (shown in FIG. 1) of the control unit 8. For example, information input by a user (resident) or the like can be transmitted to the control unit 8 (arithmetic device 18) by this input device 21. The input information includes, for example, instruction information such as starting and stopping air conditioning operation, and a target temperature for each room 5 (shown in FIG. 1).

[0031] The output device 22 of this embodiment is configured as, for example, a display provided in a housing (shown in FIG. 1) of the control unit 8. The output device 22 is capable of displaying, for example, the operating status of the central air-conditioning system 1 by receiving a signal from the control unit 8 (the arithmetic device 18).

[0032] [Arithmetic device] The arithmetic device 18 (control unit 8) of this embodiment is composed of, for example, a CPU (central processing unit). The arithmetic device 18 of this embodiment is communicatively connected to the air conditioner 6. This allows the arithmetic device 18 to control the operation of the air conditioner 6 (start and stop of cooling operation, heating operation, etc., set temperature, blown air volume, etc.) by transmitting signals to the air conditioner 6. Furthermore, the arithmetic device 18 can acquire the temperature and humidity on the intake port 14 side, the temperature on the exhaust port 15 side, and the blown air volume by transmitting signals to the air conditioner 6, and transmit these acquired temperatures, etc. to the arithmetic device 18.

[0033] The arithmetic device 18 of this embodiment is connected to the outside air supply fan 13 and the fan 16 (in this example, the first fan 16A and the second fan 16B). This allows the arithmetic device 18 to transmit signals to the outside air supply fan 13 and the fan 16, thereby controlling the operation of these fans (starting and stopping, air volume (rotation speed), etc.).

[0034] [Storage device] The storage device 19 of the present embodiment is, for example, a non-volatile information storage device. The storage device 19 includes a data section 23 and a program section 24.

[0035] [Data section] The data section 23 of this embodiment is for storing the calculation results and the like by the arithmetic device 18. The data section 23 of this embodiment includes a storage section 23A. Note that the data section 23 is not limited to this form, and an input section or the like for storing other information may be added as necessary.

[0036] The memory unit 23A of this embodiment stores status information indicating the operating status of the air conditioner 6 (in this example, including at least the temperatures on the air inlet 14 side and the air outlet 15 side of the air conditioner 6 shown in FIG. 1, and the blown air volume). The status information of this embodiment further includes, for example, the humidity on the air inlet 14 side. The memory unit 23A of this embodiment also stores the air conditioning capacity calculated in calculation step S4 described below.

[0037] [Program section] The program section 24 is a program executed by the arithmetic device 18. When the program section 24 is executed by the arithmetic device 18, it can cause the control section 8 (computer 9) to function as a specific means. The program section 24 in this embodiment includes, for example, a condition determination section 24A, a maximum operation section 24B, a situation information acquisition section 24C, a calculation section 24D, a display section 24E, and a determination section 24F. Note that the program section 24 is not limited to this embodiment, and may include other programs.

[0038] The condition determination unit 24A is for determining whether or not the temperature on the inlet 14 side of the air conditioner 6 (shown in FIG. 1) satisfies a predetermined condition. The maximum operation unit 24B is for operating the air conditioner 6 in maximum operation mode. The status information acquisition unit 24C is for acquiring status information (including at least the temperatures on the inlet 14 side and the outlet 15 side of the air conditioner 6, and the blown air volume). In this embodiment, the humidity on the inlet 14 side is acquired by the status information acquisition unit 24C.

[0039] The calculation unit 24D is for calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6 (shown in FIG. 1) based on the situation information. The display unit 24E is for displaying the air conditioning capacity calculated by the calculation unit 24D. The judgment unit 24F is for judging whether or not the air conditioner 6 is performing the capacity that is originally expected. The functions of these program units 24 will be explained in each step of the performance judgment method described later.

[0040] As shown in Fig. 1, in the central air-conditioning system 1 of this embodiment, the operation of the air conditioner 6, outdoor air supply fan 13, and fan 16 is controlled based on instructions (signals) from the control unit 8. The air conditioner 6 takes in a mixture of air Ai that has been circulated through the multiple living rooms 5 and outdoor air Ao from an intake port 14, and discharges conditioned air Ac from an exhaust port 15. The conditioned air Ac is supplied to the multiple living rooms 5 via a duct 7 (and fan 16). The air Ai that has been circulated through the multiple living rooms 5 is supplied again to the intake port 14 of the air conditioner 6.

[0041] In this way, the central air conditioning system 1 can air-condition and ventilate the multiple rooms 5 while circulating air within the house 2. In such a central air conditioning system 1, in order to properly air-condition the multiple rooms 5, it is extremely important that the air conditioner 6 always performs at an appropriate capacity (i.e., the capacity that is originally expected).

[0042] [Performance evaluation method for central air conditioning system (first embodiment)] Next, a processing procedure (functions of the central air-conditioning system 1) of the performance determination method of the central air-conditioning system 1 of this embodiment (hereinafter, sometimes simply referred to as the "performance determination method") will be described. In the performance determination method of this embodiment, it is determined whether or not the air conditioner 6 is performing the capacity that is originally expected.

[0043] In this embodiment, the performance evaluation method is executed by the control unit 8 receiving an instruction to start execution of the performance evaluation method, but the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, execution of the performance evaluation method may be started simultaneously with the start of operation of the central air-conditioning system 1. Furthermore, the instruction to the control unit 8 is given, for example, by a serviceman (technician) who repairs a malfunction of the central air-conditioning system 1, but may also be given by a resident of the house 2, etc.

[0044] Instructions to the control unit 8 may be given directly from the input device 21 (shown in FIG. 2) of the control unit 8, or may be given, for example, from another computer (e.g., a cloud server, etc.) connected to the control unit 8 via a WAN (Internet).

[0045] In the performance determination method of this embodiment, the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6 is calculated based on status information of the air conditioner 6 (in this example, including at least the temperatures on the inlet 14 side and the outlet 15 side of the air conditioner 6 shown in Fig. 1 and the blown air volume). Meanwhile, in order to accurately determine whether the air conditioner 6 is performing as expected, it is desirable to obtain status information when the air conditioner 6 is operating under conditions suitable for calculating the air conditioning capacity.

[0046] Conditions suitable for calculating the air conditioning capacity can be specified as appropriate, for example, depending on the air conditioner 6 (shown in FIG. 1) for which the air conditioning capacity is to be calculated. In this embodiment, conditions suitable for the air conditioning capacity include the maximum operation mode of the air conditioner 6. Maximum operation mode is a state in which the air blowing volume of the air conditioner 6 is maximized and the air conditioner 6 is operated at maximum capacity (including cooling operation and heating operation). Such maximum operation mode makes it possible to operate the air conditioner 6 by maximizing the inherent capacity of the air conditioner 6. Therefore, by calculating the air conditioning capacity based on the status information in maximum operation mode, it becomes possible to accurately determine whether the air conditioner 6 is performing the capacity that is inherently expected.

[0047] Furthermore, even if the air conditioner 6 (shown in FIG. 1) is operated in maximum operation mode, for example, depending on the air conditioning conditions and environment (for example, the temperature on the air inlet 14 side), the air conditioner 6 may not be able to fully utilize its inherent capacity. For example, during heating operation, if the temperature on the air inlet 14 side is higher than a predetermined temperature (26° C. in this embodiment), it may be difficult to fully utilize the inherent capacity even if the air conditioner is operated in maximum operation mode. On the other hand, during cooling operation, if the temperature on the air inlet 14 side is lower than a predetermined temperature (20° C. in this embodiment), it may be difficult to fully utilize the inherent capacity even if the air conditioner is operated in maximum operation mode.

[0048] In the performance determination method of this embodiment, prior to acquiring the status information, when the temperature on the air inlet 14 side satisfies a predetermined condition, the air conditioner 6 is operated in the maximum operation mode. Fig. 3 is a flowchart showing the processing steps of the performance determination method of the central air-conditioning system 1 of this embodiment.

[0049] [Conditional decision step] In the performance determination method of this embodiment, first, the control unit 8 determines whether or not the temperature on the suction port 14 side satisfies a predetermined condition (condition determination step S1). In the condition determination step S1 of this embodiment, first, the condition determination unit 24A shown in Fig. 2 is loaded into the working memory 20. Then, the condition determination unit 24A is executed by the arithmetic device 18, thereby making it possible to cause the control unit 8 (computer 9) to function as a means for determining whether or not the temperature on the suction port 14 side satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0050] In condition determination step S1 of the present embodiment, condition determination unit 24A (control unit 8) transmits a signal to the air conditioner 6 to acquire the temperature on the air inlet 14 side shown in Fig. 1. This allows condition determination unit 24A (control unit 8) to acquire the temperature on the air inlet 14 side. Then, in condition determination step S1 of the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not the temperature on the air inlet 14 side satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0051] As described above, during heating operation, if the temperature on the air inlet 14 side is higher than a predetermined temperature (26°C in this embodiment), it is difficult to maximize the original capacity even if the air conditioner is operated in maximum operation mode. For this reason, in condition determination step S1 of this embodiment, it is determined that the condition is satisfied when the air conditioner 6 is in heating operation and the temperature on the air inlet 14 side is equal to or lower than a predetermined temperature (26°C in this embodiment).

[0052] On the other hand, during cooling operation, if the temperature on the air inlet 14 side is lower than a predetermined temperature (20°C in this embodiment), it is difficult to maximize the original capacity even if the air conditioner is operated in maximum operation mode. For this reason, in condition determination step S1 of this embodiment, it is determined that the condition is satisfied when the air conditioner 6 is in cooling operation and the temperature on the air inlet 14 side is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature (20°C in this embodiment).

[0053] In the condition determination step S1, if it is determined that the temperature on the air inlet 14 side satisfies the predetermined condition ("Yes" in the condition determination step S1), the air conditioner 6 is operated in the maximum operation mode, thereby making it possible to maximize the inherent capacity of the air conditioner 6. In this case, the next maximum operation step S2 is executed.

[0054] On the other hand, if it is determined in condition determination step S1 that the temperature on the air inlet 14 side does not satisfy the predetermined condition ("No" in condition determination step S1), it is difficult to maximize the inherent capacity even if the air conditioner 6 is operated in the maximum operation mode. In this case, condition determination step S1 is performed again.

[0055] It may take some time until the temperature on the air inlet 14 side reaches a state that satisfies the predetermined condition. For this reason, condition determination step S1 may be performed again after a predetermined time (e.g., 0.5 to 2.0 hours) has elapsed since a negative ("No") determination was made in condition determination step S1.

[0056] [Maximum operation steps] Next, in the performance determination method of this embodiment, the control unit 8 operates the air conditioner 6 in maximum operation mode (maximum operation step S2). In maximum operation step S2, first, the maximum operation unit 24B shown in Fig. 2 is loaded into the work memory 20. Then, the maximum operation unit 24B is executed by the arithmetic device 18, thereby causing the control unit 8 (computer 9) to function as a means for operating the air conditioner 6 in maximum operation mode.

[0057] In the maximum operation step S2 of this embodiment, the maximum operation unit 24B (control unit 8) transmits a signal to the air conditioner 6 to maximize the blowing air volume of the air conditioner 6 and operate the air conditioner 6 at maximum capacity. If the air conditioner 6 was in heating operation immediately before the start of the performance evaluation method, it is operated in heating operation in maximum operation mode. On the other hand, if the air conditioner 6 was in cooling operation immediately before the start of the performance evaluation method, it is operated in cooling operation in maximum operation mode.

[0058] In the performance determination method of this embodiment, after it is determined in the condition determination step S1 that the temperature on the air inlet 14 side satisfies a predetermined condition, the maximum operation step S2 is performed. Therefore, in the maximum operation step S2 of this embodiment, it is possible to operate the air conditioner 6 by making the most of the inherent capabilities of the air conditioner 6.

[0059] [Memory step] Next, in the performance evaluation method of this embodiment, the control unit 8 acquires situation information and stores it in the memory unit 23A (storage step S3). In the storage step S3 of this embodiment, first, the situation information acquisition unit 24C shown in FIG. 2 is loaded into the working memory 20. Then, the situation information acquisition unit 24C is executed by the arithmetic device 18, so that the control unit 8 (computer 9) can function as a means for acquiring situation information and storing it in the memory unit 23A. Although the situation information of this embodiment is acquired and stored in chronological order, it may be acquired and stored at any timing (spot).

[0060] In the storage step S3 of this embodiment, first, acquisition of status information is started. In this embodiment, in order to acquire status information (in this example, the temperature and humidity on the inlet 14 side, the temperature on the outlet 15 side, and the blown air volume shown in FIG. 1), the status information acquisition unit 24C (control unit 8) transmits a signal to the air conditioner 6. This enables the calculation device 18 (control unit 8) to acquire the status information.

[0061] In the storage step S3 of this embodiment, the situation information is acquired at a predetermined time interval (for example, 1 to 20 minutes) from when acquisition of the situation information is started to when acquisition of the situation information is ended. Thereby, in the storage step S3 of this embodiment, the situation information can be acquired in chronological order (at time intervals). The situation information acquired in chronological order is stored in the storage unit 23A.

[0062] The timing for ending acquisition of the status information can be set appropriately as long as status information that allows calculation of the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6 can be acquired in the calculation step S4 described below. For example, when a defrosting operation is started during heating operation, the heating operation in the maximum operation mode is forcibly interrupted. For this reason, in the storage step S3, acquisition of the status information may be ended, for example, after a time longer than the time required for the defrosting operation has elapsed since acquisition of the status information was started. This makes it possible to reliably acquire status information during heating operation in the maximum operation mode.

[0063] [Calculation step] Next, in the performance determination method of this embodiment, the control unit 8 calculates the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6 based on the stored situation information (calculation step S4). In calculation step S4 of this embodiment, the air conditioning capacity for a certain operating time (any operating time) or period (any operating period) is calculated.

[0064] In the calculation step S4 of this embodiment, first, the situation information stored in the storage unit 23A shown in Fig. 2 and the calculation unit 24D of the program unit 24 are read into the work memory 20. Then, the calculation unit 24D is executed by the arithmetic device 18, thereby causing the control unit 8 (computer 9) to function as a means for calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6.

[0065] The operation time and period for which the air conditioning capacity is calculated can be set appropriately as long as it is possible to calculate an air conditioning capacity that can determine whether or not the air conditioner 6 (shown in FIG. 1) is performing the capacity that is originally expected. In this embodiment, an operation time suitable for calculating the air conditioning capacity (in this example, any operation time during operation in maximum operation mode (excluding, for example, a time during defrosting operation)) is selected from each operation time of the status information acquired in chronological order, and the air conditioning capacity at the selected operation time is calculated. Note that, when the status information is acquired and stored at any timing (spot), the air conditioning capacity at the operation time when the status information was acquired is calculated.

[0066] The operation capacity is calculated, for example, using the following formula (1): Condition information at the selected operation time (in this example, the temperature and humidity on the inlet 14 side, the temperature on the outlet 15 side, and the blown air volume shown in FIG. 1) is substituted into this formula (1).

[0067]

number

[0068] The blown air volume of the situation information is substituted for the blown air volume V in the above formula (1). i The temperature on the air inlet 14 side of the situation information is substituted into the temperature T o The temperature on the air outlet 15 side of the situation information is substituted into the above formula (1). i is substituted with the humidity (absolute humidity) on the suction port 14 side of the status information. When the humidity on the suction port 14 side of the status information is acquired as a relative humidity, it is converted to an absolute humidity using, for example, the temperature and humidity on the suction port 14 side of the status information.

[0069] Humidity X on the outlet side of the above formula (1) ois substituted with the humidity (absolute humidity) on the outlet 15 side. The humidity on the outlet 15 side in this embodiment is the humidity of the conditioned air Ac. Here, the situation information in this embodiment does not include the humidity on the outlet 15 side. For this reason, in this embodiment, the humidity on the outlet 15 side is found (estimated) based on the situation information (in this example, the humidity on the inlet 14 side and the temperature on the outlet 15 side).

[0070] In this embodiment, to find the humidity (absolute humidity) on the outlet 15 side, first, the dew point temperature of the air taken in from the inlet 14 is calculated from the humidity (absolute humidity) on the inlet 14 side of the situation information.

[0071] Next, it is determined whether the temperature on the air outlet 15 side of the status information is equal to or higher than the dew point temperature. If the temperature on the air outlet 15 side is equal to or higher than the dew point temperature, it is considered that the air taken in from the air inlet 14 is not dehumidified by the operation of the air conditioner 6 (dehumidification operation, etc.), but is discharged from the air outlet 15 while maintaining the humidity on the air inlet 14 side. In this case, the humidity (absolute humidity) on the air outlet 15 side is calculated (estimated) to be the same absolute humidity as that on the air inlet 14 side. Therefore, the humidity X on the air outlet side in the above formula (1) is o The humidity (absolute humidity) on the suction port 14 side is substituted for .

[0072] On the other hand, when the temperature on the air outlet 15 side is lower than the dew point temperature, it is considered that the air taken in from the intake port 14 is dehumidified by the operation of the air conditioner 6 (dehumidification operation, etc.) and is discharged from the air outlet 15. In this case, the humidity (absolute humidity) on the air outlet 15 side is calculated (estimated) as the saturated absolute humidity at the temperature on the air outlet 15 side. Therefore, the humidity X on the air outlet side in the above formula (1) is o The saturated absolute humidity at the temperature on the outlet 15 side is substituted for .

[0073] In this way, in the performance determination method of this embodiment, even if the humidity on the outlet 15 side has not actually been measured, it can be easily found (estimated) from situation information (in this example, the humidity on the inlet 14 side and the temperature on the outlet 15 side). As a result, the air conditioner 6 of this embodiment is not limited to one that is capable of measuring the humidity on the outlet 15 side. Furthermore, there is no need to separately install, for example, a humidity sensor (not shown) on the outlet 15 side. Therefore, the performance determination method of this embodiment makes it possible to reduce the introduction cost of the central air-conditioning system 1 while increasing versatility.

[0074] In this embodiment, the air conditioning capacity at the selected operating time can be calculated by substituting the situation information at the selected operating time (in this example, the humidity on the inlet 14 side and the temperature on the outlet 15 side) and the predicted humidity on the outlet 15 side into the above formula (1).

[0075] Furthermore, when calculating the air conditioning capacity for a certain period (any operating period), first, the air conditioning capacity for each operating time is calculated from the status information acquired at time intervals (each operating time) during that period, based on the same procedure as above. Then, the air conditioning capacity for each operating time is averaged to calculate the air conditioning capacity for a certain period (any operating period). The calculation procedure is not limited to this mode. For example, the average values ​​of the status information for a certain period (average temperature and average humidity on the intake port 14 side, average temperature on the exhaust port 15 side, and average blown air volume) may be calculated, and these average values ​​may be substituted into the above formula (1) using the same procedure as above to calculate the average value of the air conditioning capacity.

[0076] [Air conditioning capacity memory step] Next, in the performance determination method of this embodiment, the control unit 8 stores the calculated air conditioning capacity in the memory unit 23A shown in Fig. 2 (air conditioning capacity storage step S5). In the air conditioning capacity storage step S5 of this embodiment, the air conditioning capacity calculated in the calculation step S4 is stored in the memory unit 23A. Note that, when the air conditioning capacity for a certain period (any operating period) is calculated in the calculation step S4, the air conditioning capacity at each operating time during that period may also be stored.

[0077] [Display Step] Next, in the performance determination method of this embodiment, the control unit 8 displays capacity information related to the calculated air conditioning capacity (display step S6). In display step S6 of this embodiment, first, the air conditioning capacity stored in the memory unit 23A shown in Fig. 2 and the display unit 24E of the program unit 24 are read into the work memory 20. Then, the display unit 24E is executed by the arithmetic device 18, thereby making it possible to cause the control unit 8 (computer 9) to function as a means for displaying capacity information related to the calculated air conditioning capacity.

[0078] In display step S6, any capacity information can be displayed as appropriate as long as it is possible to determine whether or not the air conditioner 6 is performing the capacity that is originally expected. In display step S6, for example, a calculated air conditioning capacity may be displayed as the capacity information, or a ratio to an expected air conditioning capacity predetermined for the air conditioner 6 (in this example, air conditioning capacity / expected air conditioning capacity) may be displayed.

[0079] The capability information in this embodiment is displayed on the output device 22 (display) of the control unit 8, but may be displayed on an output device (eg, a display or printer) of a cloud server or the like.

[0080] [Judgment step] Next, in the performance determination method of this embodiment, the control unit 8 determines whether or not the air conditioner 6 is performing the capacity that is originally expected (determination step S7). In the determination step S7 of this embodiment, first, as shown in Fig. 2, the determination section 24F of the program unit 24 is loaded into the working memory 20. Then, the determination section 24F is executed by the arithmetic device 18, thereby making it possible to cause the control unit 8 (computer 9) to function as a means for determining whether or not the air conditioner 6 is performing the capacity that is originally expected.

[0081] Judgment step S7 can be performed as appropriate if it is possible to determine whether the air conditioner 6 is performing the capacity that is originally expected. In this embodiment, if the calculated air conditioning capacity or the ratio to the expected air conditioning capacity (in this example, air conditioning capacity / expected air conditioning capacity) is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, it is judged that the air conditioner 6 is performing the capacity that is originally expected. The threshold is set as appropriate according to the capacity that is expected of the air conditioner 6. The threshold for the ratio is set to, for example, 95%.

[0082] If it is determined in judgment step S7 that the air conditioner 6 is performing at the capacity that is originally expected ("Yes" in judgment step S7), it may be determined that there is no malfunction in the air conditioner 6. This ends a series of processes in the performance judgment method of this embodiment. Note that if the room 5 is not being properly air-conditioned even though the air conditioner 6 is performing at its original capacity, the location of the malfunction in the central air-conditioning system 1 may be identified in detail, for example, based on the procedure described in JP 2021-004682 A.

[0083] On the other hand, if it is determined in judgment step S7 that the air conditioner 6 is not performing as expected ("No" in judgment step S7), it is determined that there is a malfunction in the air conditioner 6. Examples of causes of the malfunction include a refrigerant leak in the air conditioner 6 or an inappropriate installation space for the outdoor unit (not shown). In this case, the air conditioner 6 is repaired (maintained) (repair step S8).

[0084] [Repair steps] In repair step S8, for example, a serviceman (technician) or the like is dispatched to the house 2 to repair the malfunction of the central air conditioning system 1. The serviceman can quickly identify the cause of the malfunction of the air conditioner 6, for example, based on the capacity information displayed in display step S6 and the air conditioning capacity and status information stored in the memory unit 23A. The serviceman can then quickly repair (maintain) the air conditioner 6 based on the identified cause of the malfunction. As a result, the performance determination method of the present embodiment makes it possible for the air conditioner 6 to reliably demonstrate the capacity that is originally expected of it.

[0085] [Method for assessing the performance of a central air-conditioning system (function of central air-conditioning system)] In this way, in the performance determination method (central air-conditioning system 1) of this embodiment, the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 6 at a certain operating time or period is calculated based on the stored status information, and capacity information related to that air conditioning capacity is displayed. As a result, in the performance determination method (central air-conditioning system 1) of this embodiment, it becomes possible to accurately determine whether or not the air conditioner 6 is performing as expected, based on the capacity information.

[0086] In the performance determination method (central air-conditioning system 1) of this embodiment, the air-conditioning capacity is calculated using status information in maximum operation mode in which the air conditioner 6 is operating at its maximum potential. This makes it possible in the performance determination method (central air-conditioning system 1) of this embodiment to accurately determine whether the air conditioner 6 is operating at the potential expected of it.

[0087] In the performance determination method (central air-conditioning system 1) of this embodiment, when the temperature on the air inlet 14 side satisfies a predetermined condition, the air conditioner 6 can be operated in maximum operation mode. As a result, in the performance determination method (central air-conditioning system 1) of this embodiment, it is possible to operate the air conditioner 6 while maximizing the inherent capacity of the air conditioner 6. Therefore, in the performance determination method (central air-conditioning system 1) of this embodiment, it is possible to more accurately determine whether the air conditioner 6 is exhibiting the capacity that is inherently expected.

[0088] In the performance evaluation method (central air-conditioning system 1) of this embodiment, for example, there is no variation in the acquired air-conditioning capacity due to the proficiency of the serviceman, the time when the serviceman is dispatched (the time when the air-conditioning capacity cannot be exerted), etc. Therefore, in the performance evaluation method (central air-conditioning system 1) of this embodiment, it is possible to accurately evaluate the quality of the performance of the central air-conditioning system 1.

[0089] [Method for determining performance of a central air conditioning system (second embodiment)] In the above-mentioned embodiments, the status information includes the temperature and humidity on the inlet 14 side, the temperature on the outlet 15 side, and the blown air volume, as shown in Fig. 1, but is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, the status information may further include the outside air temperature. In this embodiment, the same components as those in the above-mentioned embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0090] The outdoor air temperature can be measured as appropriate. In this embodiment, the outdoor air temperature is measured, for example, by outdoor air temperature sensor 28. Outdoor air temperature sensor 28 may be a temperature sensor provided in the outdoor unit (not shown) of air conditioner 6, or may be a temperature sensor provided in opening 27 of foundation 26. Outdoor air temperature sensor 28 is connected to calculation device 18 (control unit 8) as shown in FIG. 2. This allows control unit 8 to obtain the outdoor air temperature by transmitting a signal from outdoor air temperature sensor 28, and to transmit the obtained outdoor air temperature to calculation device 18.

[0091] [Storage step (second embodiment)] In the storage step S3 of this embodiment, the temperature and humidity on the inlet 14 side, the temperature on the outlet 15 side, and the blown air volume are acquired as situation information, as well as the outdoor air temperature. As a result, in the performance determination method of this embodiment, the outdoor air temperature when the air conditioner 6 is operated in the maximum operation mode can be identified.

[0092] [Calculation step (second embodiment)] Incidentally, standards (e.g., JIS-B8616, etc.) stipulate that the air conditioning capacity (rated capacity) is to be obtained, for example, at a specified outdoor air temperature. For example, it is stipulated that the air conditioning capacity during heating operation is to be obtained when the outdoor air temperature is 7°C. On the other hand, it is stipulated that the air conditioning capacity during cooling operation is to be obtained when the outdoor air temperature is 35°C. Note that the outdoor air temperature is not limited to these temperatures, and can be changed as appropriate depending on revisions to standards, the type of standard to be applied, etc.

[0093] In calculation step S4 of this embodiment, the air conditioning capacity is calculated for an operation time or period when the outdoor air temperature satisfies a predetermined condition (in this example, 7°C during heating operation, 35°C during cooling operation). As a result, the performance determination method of this embodiment is capable of calculating the rated capacity, so that in determination step S7, it becomes possible to accurately determine whether the capacity of the air conditioner 6 is good or bad based on the rated capacity.

[0094] In the performance determination method of this embodiment, in the condition determination step S1, it may be determined whether or not the outdoor air temperature satisfies a predetermined condition (in this example, 7°C during heating operation, 35°C during cooling operation). In this case, when the outdoor air temperature satisfies the condition, the maximum operation step S2 and the storage step S3 are performed, so that it is possible to reliably obtain status information when the outdoor air temperature satisfies the predetermined condition, and therefore it is possible to reliably calculate the rated capacity.

[0095] [Method for assessing performance of a central air conditioning system (third embodiment)] In the above embodiments, the calculation step S4 is executed when it is determined in the condition determination step S1 that the temperature on the air inlet 14 side satisfies a predetermined condition or when the outside air temperature satisfies a predetermined condition, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, the calculation step S4 may be executed based on predetermined schedule information.

[0096] The schedule information is, for example, an operation time or period that is set based on calendar information (information related to date and time) set in the control unit 8. The schedule information can be set arbitrarily, and for example, an operation time or period that is suitable for calculating the air conditioning capacity can be set.

[0097] In the performance determination method of this embodiment, if it is determined in condition determination step S1 that the present time corresponds to the schedule information (operation time or period), then maximum operation step S2, storage step S3, and calculation step S4 are executed. As a result, in the performance determination method of this embodiment, it is possible to prevent calculation step S4 (including maximum operation step S2 and storage step S3) from being executed at an operation time or period that is not suitable for calculating the air conditioning capacity (for example, spring or autumn). As a result, in the performance determination method of this embodiment, it is possible to suppress unnecessary calculation of the air conditioning capacity, and to prevent the capacity of the storage unit 23A from being strained.

[0098] The schedule information may be set only when a malfunction is found in the central air-conditioning system 1 (air conditioner 6). As a result, in the performance determination method of this embodiment, in a central air-conditioning system 1 in which no malfunction is found, it is possible to prevent the calculation step S4 (including the maximum operation step S2 and the storage step S3) from being executed, and therefore unnecessary calculation of air-conditioning capacity, etc. can be suppressed.

[0099] Although a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiment and can be modified and carried out in various forms. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 1. Whole building air conditioning system 2. Housing 5 Room 6. Air conditioners 7 Duct 8. Control Unit 14 Intake port 15 Air outlet Ac conditioned air

Claims

1. A performance evaluation method for a central air conditioning system of a residence including an air conditioner, a duct for supplying air conditioned by the air conditioner to a plurality of rooms, and a control unit communicatively connected to the air conditioner, a maximum operation step in which the control unit operates the air conditioner in a maximum operation mode when the outdoor air temperature satisfies a condition defined when acquiring the rated capacity of the air conditioner; a storage step in which the control unit acquires status information including at least the temperatures of the inlet side and the outlet side of the air conditioner, the blown air volume, and the outside air temperature, and stores the status information in a storage unit; A calculation step in which the control unit calculates the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner at a certain operating time or period based on the stored status information; A display step in which the control unit displays capacity information regarding the calculated air conditioning capacity, The calculation step calculates the air conditioning capacity using the situation information in the maximum operation mode. How to determine the performance of a whole-building air conditioning system.

2. A performance evaluation method for a whole-building air conditioning system as described in Claim 1, wherein the display step displays the calculated air conditioning capacity or a ratio to a predetermined expected air conditioning capacity for the air conditioner.

3. A performance assessment method for a whole-building air conditioning system as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the calculation step is performed based on predetermined schedule information.

4. A performance determination method for a whole-building air conditioning system described in any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising an air conditioning capacity storage step in which the control unit stores the calculated air conditioning capacity in the memory unit.

5. Further comprising an outside air supply duct for supplying outside air to the air conditioner, The temperature on the suction port side is a temperature measured in a space between the suction port and the outside air supply duct within a predetermined range from the suction port, 5. A method for evaluating the performance of a central air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the temperature on the outlet side and the blowing air volume are temperatures measured within a predetermined range from the outlet in the space between the outlet and the duct.

6. The temperature on the suction port side is a temperature measured within a range of 10 to 20 cm from the suction port, 6. The method for evaluating performance of a central air-conditioning system according to claim 5, wherein the temperature on the air outlet side and the blown air volume are temperatures measured within a range of 10 to 20 cm from the air outlet.

7. A method for determining the performance of a whole-building air conditioning system described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the outside air temperature is measured at an opening in the foundation.

8. A whole-house air conditioning system for a home, An air conditioner, A duct for supplying air conditioned by the air conditioner to a plurality of rooms; A control unit communicatively connected to the air conditioner, The control unit has a maximum operation unit that operates the air conditioner in a maximum operation mode when the outdoor air temperature satisfies a condition that was set when obtaining the rated capacity of the air conditioner; A storage unit for storing status information including at least the temperatures of the inlet side and the outlet side of the air conditioner, the blown air volume, and the outside air temperature; A calculation unit for calculating the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner based on the situation information; A display unit for displaying the air conditioning capacity, The calculation unit calculates the air conditioning capacity using the situation information in the maximum operation mode. Air conditioning system throughout the building.

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