Refrigerant quantity measurement system and refrigerant usage system

Abstract

To propose a refrigerant quantity measuring system that is externally connected to a refrigeration cycle device, and clarifies a refrigerant leakage quantity from the start of use of the refrigeration cycle device to disposal without causing an additional refrigerant quantity and a pressure loss.SOLUTION: A refrigerant quantity measuring system 4 comprises a connection part 400, a storage part 460, a measurement part 401, and a memory part 472. The connection part 400 is connected to a first refrigerant circuit of a first refrigeration cycle device 100A. The storage part 460 stores a refrigerant R in the first refrigerant circuit via the connection part 400, and returns the stored refrigerant R to the first refrigerant circuit via the connection part 400. The measurement part 401 measures the quantity of the refrigerant R in the storage part 460. The memory part 472 memorizes a measurement result measured by the measurement part 401.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a refrigerant amount measuring system and a refrigerant using system. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art In order to repair a refrigeration cycle device such as an air conditioner, refrigerant may be charged based on the difference between the initial charge amount of refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle device and the amount of refrigerant recovered at the time of repair.

[0003] Patent Document 1 (JP 2010-190545 A) discloses a refrigeration device that can detect a refrigerant shortage state by a receiver tank that is internally connected to a refrigerant circuit. The refrigeration device of Patent Document 1 displays a refrigerant shortage based on the refrigerant detection value by a liquid level detector in the receiver tank built into the device. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The refrigeration system of Patent Document 1 detects a refrigerant shortage state by using a receiver tank that is internally connected to the refrigerant circuit. The refrigerant flows to the receiver tank built into the system even during normal operation (such as air conditioning operation). Therefore, the refrigeration system of Patent Document 1 requires an amount of refrigerant corresponding to the volume of the receiver tank in addition to the amount of refrigerant corresponding to the existing refrigerant circuit. Furthermore, the refrigeration system of Patent Document 1 causes a pressure loss of the refrigerant when it passes through the receiver tank.

[0005] The present disclosure proposes a refrigerant amount measurement system that is externally connected to the refrigerant circuit of a refrigeration cycle device, and that clarifies the amount of refrigerant leakage from the start of use of the refrigeration cycle device to its disposal without generating any additional refrigerant amount or pressure loss. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A refrigerant amount measurement system according to a first aspect includes a connection unit, a storage unit, a measurement unit, and a memory unit. The connection unit is connected to a first refrigerant circuit of a first refrigeration cycle device. The storage unit stores the refrigerant in the first refrigerant circuit via the connection unit and returns the stored refrigerant to the first refrigerant circuit via the connection unit. The measurement unit measures the amount of refrigerant in the storage unit. The memory unit stores the measurement results measured by the measurement unit.

[0007] This refrigerant amount measurement system stores refrigerant in the first refrigerant circuit in a storage unit that is externally connected to the first refrigerant circuit. The refrigerant amount measurement system measures the amount of refrigerant in the storage unit and stores the measurement result. The refrigerant amount measurement system returns the stored refrigerant from the storage unit that is externally connected to the first refrigerant circuit to the first refrigerant circuit. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system can clarify the amount of refrigerant leakage in the first refrigerant circuit without causing additional refrigerant amount or pressure loss.

[0008] A refrigerant amount measurement system according to a second aspect is the refrigerant amount measurement system according to the first aspect, in which the connection portion has a first pipe and a second pipe, and an on-off valve is provided in each of the first pipe and the second pipe.

[0009] The connection part of the refrigerant amount measurement system has a first pipe and a second pipe. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system can be divided into the first pipe and the second pipe depending on the state of the refrigerant and connected to the first refrigerant circuit. Also, an on-off valve is provided in each of the first pipe and the second pipe. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system can allow or block communication between the first pipe and the second pipe.

[0010] A refrigerant amount measurement system according to a third aspect is the refrigerant amount measurement system according to the second aspect, further comprising a control unit. The control unit performs a first refrigerant amount measurement operation. The first refrigerant amount measurement operation is an operation of controlling a first refrigeration cycle device and an on-off valve to transfer refrigerant from a first refrigerant circuit to a storage unit, causing the measurement unit to measure the amount of refrigerant, and causing the refrigerant to return from the storage unit to the first refrigerant circuit.

[0011] The control unit of the refrigerant amount measurement system performs the first refrigerant amount measurement operation, which makes it possible to reduce the time and effort required for clarifying the amount of refrigerant leakage from the first refrigerant circuit.

[0012] A refrigerant amount measurement system according to a fourth aspect is the refrigerant amount measurement system according to the third aspect, wherein the connection part is also connected to a second refrigerant circuit of a second refrigeration cycle device. The control part further has a third pipe and a fourth pipe each provided with an on-off valve. Furthermore, the connection part is connected to the first refrigerant circuit by the first pipe and the second pipe, and is connected to the second refrigerant circuit by the third pipe and the fourth pipe.

[0013] The connection part of this refrigerant amount measurement system is also connected to the second refrigerant circuit of the second refrigeration cycle device. Therefore, this refrigerant amount measurement system can also clarify the amount of refrigerant leakage from the second refrigerant circuit. In addition, the connection part of this refrigerant amount measurement system has a third pipe and a fourth pipe. Therefore, this refrigerant amount measurement system can be divided into the third pipe and the fourth pipe depending on the state of the refrigerant and connected to the second refrigerant circuit. In addition, each of the third pipe and the fourth pipe is provided with an on-off valve. Therefore, this refrigerant amount measurement system can allow or block communication between the third pipe and the fourth pipe.

[0014] A refrigerant amount measurement system according to a fifth aspect is the refrigerant amount measurement system according to the fourth aspect, wherein the control unit further performs a second refrigerant amount measurement operation. The second refrigerant amount measurement operation is an operation of controlling a second refrigeration cycle device and an on-off valve to transfer the refrigerant from the second refrigerant circuit to the storage unit, causing the measurement unit to measure the amount of the refrigerant, and causing the refrigerant to return from the storage unit to the second refrigerant circuit.

[0015] The control unit of the refrigerant amount measurement system further performs a second refrigerant amount measurement operation, which makes it possible to reduce the time and effort required for clarifying the amount of refrigerant leakage from the second refrigerant circuit.

[0016] A refrigerant amount measurement system according to a sixth aspect is the refrigerant amount measurement system according to the fifth aspect, wherein the control unit performs the first refrigerant amount measurement operation and the second refrigerant amount measurement operation at different times.

[0017] The control unit of the refrigerant amount measurement system performs the first refrigerant amount measurement operation and the second refrigerant amount measurement operation at different times, so the refrigerant amount measurement system can distinguish and clearly determine the amount of refrigerant leakage from the first refrigerant circuit and the amount of refrigerant leakage from the second refrigerant circuit.

[0018] A refrigerant amount measurement system according to a seventh aspect is the refrigerant amount measurement system according to the fifth or sixth aspect, wherein the control unit performs a first refrigerant amount measurement operation during a time period when normal operation of the first refrigeration cycle device is stopped, and the control unit performs a second refrigerant amount measurement operation during a time period when normal operation of the second refrigeration cycle device is stopped.

[0019] The control unit of the refrigerant amount measurement system performs a first refrigerant amount measurement operation during a time period when normal operation of the first refrigeration cycle device is stopped. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system is not affected by the normal operation of the first refrigeration cycle device and can more clearly indicate the amount of refrigerant leakage from the first refrigerant circuit. Furthermore, the control unit performs a second refrigerant amount measurement operation during a time period when normal operation of the second refrigeration cycle device is stopped. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system is not affected by the normal operation of the second refrigeration cycle device and can more clearly indicate the amount of refrigerant leakage from the second refrigerant circuit.

[0020] A refrigerant amount measurement system of an eighth aspect is the refrigerant amount measurement system of any of the fifth aspect to the seventh aspect, wherein the control unit performs a first storage operation and a second storage operation. The first storage operation is an operation of transferring refrigerant from the first refrigerant circuit to the storage unit when refrigerant leaks from the first refrigerant circuit. The second storage operation is an operation of transferring refrigerant from the second refrigerant circuit to the storage unit when refrigerant leaks from the second refrigerant circuit.

[0021] The control unit of the refrigerant amount measurement system performs a first storage operation. Therefore, in the event of a leak of refrigerant from the first refrigerant circuit, the refrigerant from the first refrigerant circuit is stored in the storage unit, and release of the refrigerant into the atmosphere is suppressed. Furthermore, the control unit of the refrigerant amount measurement system performs a second storage operation. Therefore, in the event of a leak of refrigerant from the second refrigerant circuit, the refrigerant from the second refrigerant circuit is stored in the storage unit, and release of the refrigerant into the atmosphere is suppressed.

[0022] A refrigerant amount measurement system according to a ninth aspect is the refrigerant amount measurement system according to any one of the first aspect to the eighth aspect, wherein the measurement section has an electrode rod.

[0023] The measurement unit of the refrigerant amount measurement system has an electrode rod, and therefore the refrigerant amount measurement system can more clearly determine the amount of refrigerant leakage by using the electrode rod.

[0024] A refrigerant amount measurement system according to a tenth aspect is the refrigerant amount measurement system according to the ninth aspect, wherein the measurement unit further has a tubular member surrounding the electrode bar.

[0025] The measurement section of the refrigerant amount measurement system further includes a cylindrical member surrounding the electrode rod, so that the refrigerant amount measurement system can more clearly indicate the amount of refrigerant leakage by using the cylindrical member.

[0026] The refrigerant amount measurement system of an eleventh aspect is a refrigerant amount measurement system of any one of the first aspect to the tenth aspect, wherein the measurement unit measures the amount of refrigerant by at least one of a radio wave type, an ultrasonic type, a float type, a pressure type, a differential pressure type, and a capacitance type.

[0027] The measurement unit of the refrigerant amount measurement system measures the amount of refrigerant by at least one of the following methods: radio wave method, ultrasonic method, float method, pressure method, differential pressure method, and capacitance method. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system can more clearly determine the amount of refrigerant leakage based on a variety of methods.

[0028] A refrigerant using system according to a twelfth aspect includes the refrigerant amount measurement system according to any one of the first aspect to the eleventh aspect, and a refrigeration cycle device.

[0029] The refrigerant using system includes a refrigerant amount measurement system and a refrigeration cycle device, and therefore the refrigerant leakage amount of the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle device included in the refrigerant using system can be clarified. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a refrigerant using system 1. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a control block diagram of a control unit 140. [Diagram 3] FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of a calculation device 470. [Figure 4] 13 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of the refrigerant R in the first half of the operation of transferring the refrigerant R to the storage section 460. FIG. [Diagram 5] 13 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of the refrigerant R in the latter half of the operation of transferring the refrigerant R to the storage section 460. FIG. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a storage section 460 in which refrigerant R is stored and an electrode rod 461. FIG. [Figure 7] 1 is a graph showing the relationship between capacitance C and liquid level h depending on temperature. [Figure 8] 10 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of the refrigerant R during an operation of returning the refrigerant R to a refrigerant circulation path 150. FIG. [Figure 9] 10 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of the refrigerant R during an operation of returning the refrigerant R to a refrigerant circulation path 150. FIG. [Figure 10] 10 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of refrigerant R in the first half of the first storing operation. FIG. [Figure 11] 10 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of refrigerant R in the latter half of the first storage operation. FIG. [Figure 12A] 13 is a schematic diagram showing a storage section 460, an electrode rod 461, and a cylindrical member 462. FIG. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view showing cross section A in FIG. 12A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0031] First Embodiment (1) Overall structure A refrigerant using system 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below. Fig. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the refrigerant using system 1.

[0032] The refrigerant using system 1 includes a first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A, a second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B, and a refrigerant amount measurement system 4. The refrigerant amount measurement system 4 measures the amount of refrigerant R in the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A and the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B. The first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A is connected to the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 by a first pipe 410 and a second pipe 420. In addition, the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B is connected to the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 by a third pipe 430 and a fourth pipe 440.

[0033] The first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A and the control unit 140a of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 are electrically connected. The second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B and the control unit 140b of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 are electrically connected.

[0034] 1 shows a state in which a refrigerant amount measurement system 4 is attached to a first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A and a second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B. The number of refrigeration cycle apparatuses 100 included in the refrigerant usage system 1 is not limited to two, and may be one, or three or more.

[0035] The first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A and the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B have similar devices and similar functions. Therefore, in the following description common to the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A and the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B, they will be described as the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100. In the description that needs to be distinguished between the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A and the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B, the devices constituting the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A and the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B will be distinguished by adding "A" or "B" to the reference symbols of the devices constituting the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A and the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B.

[0036] The control unit 140a and the control unit 140b have similar devices and similar functions. Therefore, in the following description common to the control unit 140a and the control unit 140b, they will be described as the control unit 140. In the description where it is necessary to distinguish between the control unit 140a and the control unit 140b, the reference characters of the devices constituting each unit will be distinguished by adding "a" or "b" to the reference characters.

[0037] In the following description, the same or corresponding configurations among the embodiments and modified examples will be given the same reference symbols and descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0038] (2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Refrigeration cycle equipment The refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 is an air conditioner that uses a vapor compression refrigeration cycle to cool and heat a space to be air-conditioned (not shown). The refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 has an indoor unit 110, an outdoor unit 120, a gas side connecting pipe 131, and a liquid side connecting pipe 132. The refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 is a multi-type air conditioner for buildings that has two indoor units 110. The number of indoor units 110 that the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 has is not limited to two, and may be one, or three or more.

[0039] Although details will be described later, the indoor unit 110 has an indoor refrigerant flow path 111, and the outdoor unit 120 has an outdoor refrigerant flow path 121. The indoor refrigerant flow path 111, the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121, the gas side communication pipe 131, and the liquid side communication pipe 132 form a refrigerant circulation path 150. The refrigerant circulation path 150 of the first refrigeration cycle device 100A is an example of a first refrigerant circuit. The refrigerant circulation path 150 of the second refrigeration cycle device 100B is an example of a second refrigerant circuit. The refrigerant circulation path 150 is filled with a refrigerant R. The refrigerant R filled in the refrigerant circulation path 150 is, but is not limited to, a fluorocarbon-based refrigerant R such as R32 or R410A having a slightly flammable property (A2L). The refrigerant R may be flammable or toxic. The refrigeration cycle device 100 is not limited to an air conditioner, and may be, for example, a refrigerator, a freezer, a water heater, a floor heating device, or the like.

[0040] (2-1-1) Indoor unit The indoor unit 110 is installed in a space to be air-conditioned. The indoor unit 110 has an indoor refrigerant flow path 111 and a detection unit .

[0041] The indoor refrigerant passage 111 constitutes a part of the refrigerant circulation path 150. The indoor refrigerant passage 111 is formed by connecting the indoor heat exchanger 112 and the indoor expansion mechanism 113 via a refrigerant piping.

[0042] The indoor heat exchanger 112 exchanges heat between the refrigerant R flowing inside the indoor heat exchanger 112 and the air in the space to be air-conditioned. The indoor heat exchanger 112 functions as an evaporator of the refrigerant during cooling operation, and functions as a radiator of the refrigerant R during heating operation. One end of the indoor heat exchanger 112 is connected to the gas side connection part 114 via a refrigerant piping. The other end of the indoor heat exchanger 112 is connected to the indoor expansion mechanism 113 via a refrigerant piping.

[0043] The indoor expansion mechanism 113 adjusts the pressure and flow rate of the refrigerant R flowing through the refrigerant circulation path 150. The indoor expansion mechanism 113 is an electronic expansion valve whose opening is adjusted by an actuator (not shown). The indoor expansion mechanism 113 is connected to the indoor heat exchanger 112 and the liquid side connection unit 115 via a refrigerant piping. The opening of the indoor expansion mechanism 113 is controlled by the control unit 140.

[0044] The gas side connection part 114 is one end of the indoor refrigerant passage 111. The gas side connection part 114 is connected to the gas side communication pipe 131.

[0045] The liquid side connection part 115 is the other end of the indoor refrigerant flow path 111. The liquid side connection part 115 is connected to the liquid side communication pipe 132.

[0046] Detection unit 116 detects leakage of refrigerant R from refrigerant circulation path 150. Detection unit 116 is installed inside a casing (not shown) of indoor unit 110. There are no limitations on the form of detection unit 116 as long as it can detect leakage of refrigerant R from refrigerant circulation path 150, and it may be a sensor that detects refrigerant R, or it may detect leakage of refrigerant R based on a sudden change in the air temperature or piping temperature inside the casing of indoor unit 110. When detection unit 116 detects leakage of refrigerant R, it transmits a signal indicating leakage of refrigerant R to control unit 140.

[0047] (2-1-2) Outdoor unit The outdoor unit 120 is disposed outside the space to be air-conditioned. The outdoor unit 120 is installed, for example, on the roof of the building in which the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 is installed or adjacent to the building. The outdoor unit 120 has an outdoor refrigerant flow path 121, a gas side branch pipe 128, and a liquid side branch pipe 129.

[0048] The outdoor refrigerant flow path 121 constitutes a part of the refrigerant circulation path 150. The outdoor refrigerant flow path 121 is formed by connecting a first compressor 122, an outdoor heat exchanger 123, an outdoor expansion mechanism 124, a flow path switching mechanism 125, a gas side connection part 126, and a liquid side connection part 127 via a refrigerant pipe 121a. The refrigerant pipe 121a includes a first refrigerant pipe 121b, a second refrigerant pipe 121c, and a third refrigerant pipe 121d.

[0049] The first compressor 122 sucks in low-pressure refrigerant R in a refrigeration cycle from a suction pipe 122a, compresses the refrigerant R with a compression mechanism (not shown), and discharges the compressed refrigerant R to a discharge pipe 122b. The operation of the first compressor 122 is controlled by the control unit 140.

[0050] The outdoor heat exchanger 123 exchanges heat between the refrigerant R flowing inside the outdoor heat exchanger 123 and the air (heat source air) in the installation location of the outdoor unit 120. The outdoor heat exchanger 123 functions as a radiator of the refrigerant R during cooling operation, and functions as an evaporator of the refrigerant R during heating operation. One end of the outdoor heat exchanger 123 is connected to the flow path switching mechanism 125 via a refrigerant piping. The other end of the outdoor heat exchanger 123 is connected to the outdoor expansion mechanism 124 via a refrigerant piping.

[0051] The outdoor expansion mechanism 124 adjusts the pressure and flow rate of the refrigerant R flowing through the refrigerant circulation path 150. The outdoor expansion mechanism 124 is an electronic expansion valve whose opening is adjusted by an actuator (not shown). The opening of the indoor expansion mechanism 113 is controlled by the control unit 140. The outdoor expansion mechanism 124 is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 123 and the liquid side connection unit 127 via a refrigerant piping.

[0052] The flow path switching mechanism 125 changes the state of the refrigerant circulation path 150 between a first state and a second state by switching the flow direction of the refrigerant R. When the refrigerant circulation path 150 is in the first state, the outdoor heat exchanger 123 functions as a radiator of the refrigerant R, and the indoor heat exchanger 112 functions as an evaporator of the refrigerant R. When the refrigerant circulation path 150 is in the second state, the outdoor heat exchanger 123 functions as an evaporator of the refrigerant R, and the indoor heat exchanger 112 functions as a radiator of the refrigerant R. The flow path switching mechanism 125 is controlled by the control unit 140. In this embodiment, the flow path switching mechanism 125 is a four-way switching valve. However, the flow path switching mechanism 125 is not limited to a four-way switching valve. For example, the flow path switching mechanism 125 may be configured by combining a plurality of solenoid valves and refrigerant pipes so as to realize switching of the flow direction of the refrigerant R as described below.

[0053] During cooling operation, the flow path switching mechanism 125 sets the state of the refrigerant circulation path 150 to a first state. In other words, during cooling operation, the flow path switching mechanism 125 connects the suction pipe 122a to the gas side connector 126 and connects the discharge pipe 122b to the outdoor heat exchanger 123 (see the dashed line in the flow path switching mechanism 125 in FIG. 1). During heating operation, the flow path switching mechanism 125 sets the state of the refrigerant circulation path 150 to a second state. In other words, during heating operation, the flow path switching mechanism 125 connects the suction pipe 122a to the outdoor heat exchanger 123 and connects the discharge pipe 122b to the gas side connector 126 (see the solid line in the flow path switching mechanism 125 in FIG. 1).

[0054] The gas side connection part 126 is one end of the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121. To the gas side connection part 126, a gas side communication pipe 131 is connected.

[0055] The liquid side connection part 127 is the other end of the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121. The liquid side connection part 127 is connected to a liquid side communication pipe 132.

[0056] The first refrigerant pipe 121b connects the flow path switching mechanism 125 and the gas side connection part 126.

[0057] The second refrigerant pipe 121c connects the outdoor heat exchanger 123 and the outdoor expansion mechanism .

[0058] The third refrigerant pipe 121d connects the outdoor expansion mechanism 124 and the liquid side connection part 127.

[0059] The gas side branch pipe 128 is a pipe that communicates between the first refrigerant pipe 121b and the refrigerant amount measurement system 4. In this embodiment, one end of the gas side branch pipe 128 is connected to the first refrigerant pipe 121b. The other end of the gas side branch pipe 128 is connected to the first pipe 410 or the third pipe 430.

[0060] The liquid side branch pipe 129 is a pipe that connects the second refrigerant pipe 121c and the refrigerant amount measuring system 4. In this embodiment, one end of the liquid side branch pipe 129 is connected to the second refrigerant pipe 121c. The other end of the liquid side branch pipe 129 is connected to the second pipe 420 or the fourth pipe 440.

[0061] (2-1-3) Gas side connecting pipe and liquid side connecting pipe The gas side communication pipe 131 and the liquid side communication pipe 132 connect the indoor refrigerant passage 111 and the outdoor refrigerant passage 121 .

[0062] The gas side communication pipe 131 is connected to the gas side connection part 114 of the indoor refrigerant passage 111 and the gas side connection part 126 of the outdoor refrigerant passage 121 .

[0063] The indoor refrigerant flow path 111 is connected to a liquid side connection 115 of the indoor refrigerant flow path 111 and a liquid side connection 127 of the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121 .

[0064] (2-2) Refrigerant quantity measurement system The refrigerant amount measurement system 4 is a system that stores the refrigerant R in the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100, measures the amount of the refrigerant R, and returns the refrigerant R to the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100. The refrigerant amount measurement system 4 has an on-off valve 230, a first pipe 410, a second pipe 420, a third pipe 430, a fourth pipe 440, a gas side pipe 451, a liquid side pipe 452, a storage section 460, an electrode rod 461, a calculation device 470, and a control section 140. The on-off valve 230, the first pipe 410, the second pipe 420, the third pipe 430, and the fourth pipe 440 constitute a connection section 400. The electrode rod 461 and the measurement calculation section 471 constitute a measurement section 401.

[0065] The refrigerant amount measurement system 4 is externally connected to the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A by a first pipe 410 and a second pipe 420. The refrigerant amount measurement system 4 is externally connected to the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B by a third pipe 430 and a fourth pipe 440. The number of refrigeration cycle apparatuses 100 to which the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 is connected is not limited to two, and may be one, or three or more.

[0066] (2-2-1) Storage section The storage unit 460 is a cylindrical container that stores the refrigerant R in the refrigerant circulation path 150 by a refrigerant amount measurement operation described later. The storage unit 460 is connected to the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 by a first pipe 410, a second pipe 420, a third pipe 430, and a fourth pipe 440 via a gas side piping 451 and a liquid side piping 452. The storage unit 460 is not limited to a cylindrical container, and may be a container of another shape that can store the refrigerant R.

[0067] (2-2-2) Gas side piping and liquid side piping The gas side piping 451 is a piping for communicating the first pipe 410 and the third pipe 430 with the storage section 460. One end of the gas side piping 451 is connected to the storage section 460. The other end of the gas side piping 451 is connected to the gas side branch piping 128 via the first pipe 410 or the third pipe 430.

[0068] The liquid side piping 452 is a piping for communicating the second pipe 420 and the fourth pipe 440 with the storage section 460. One end of the liquid side piping 452 is connected to the storage section 460. The other end of the liquid side piping 452 is connected to the liquid side branch piping 129 via the second pipe 420 or the fourth pipe 440.

[0069] (2-2-3) Connection The connection part 400 connects the refrigerant circulation path 150 of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 to the storage part 460. The connection part 400 has an on-off valve 230, a first pipe 410, a second pipe 420, a third pipe 430, and a fourth pipe 440.

[0070] (2-2-3-1) Pipe 1 The first pipe 410 is a pipe that connects the gas side branch pipe 128A of the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A to the gas side pipe 451. One end of the first pipe 410 is connected to the gas side branch pipe 128A of the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A. The other end of the first pipe 410 is connected to the gas side pipe 451.

[0071] (2-2-3-2) 2nd pipe The second pipe 420 is a pipe that connects the liquid side branch pipe 129A of the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A to the liquid side pipe 452. One end of the second pipe 420 is connected to the liquid side branch pipe 129A of the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A. The other end of the second pipe 420 is connected to the liquid side pipe 452.

[0072] (2-2-3-3)Third pipe The third pipe 430 is a pipe that connects the gas side branch pipe 128B of the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B to the gas side pipe 451. One end of the third pipe 430 is connected to the gas side branch pipe 128B of the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B. The other end of the third pipe 430 is connected to the gas side pipe 451.

[0073] (2-2-3-4) 4th pipe The fourth pipe 440 is a pipe that connects the liquid side branch pipe 129B of the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B to the liquid side pipe 452. One end of the fourth pipe 440 is connected to the liquid side branch pipe 129B of the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B. The other end of the fourth pipe 440 is connected to the liquid side pipe 452.

[0074] (2-2-3-5) On-off valve The on-off valves 230 are provided in the first pipe 410, the second pipe 420, the third pipe 430, and the fourth pipe 440. The on-off valves 230 included in the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 include on-off valves 230a, 230b, 230c, and 230d.

[0075] (2-2-3-5-1) On-off valve 230a The on-off valve 230a is provided in the first pipe 410. The on-off valve 230a allows or blocks communication with the first pipe 410. The on-off valve 230a is an electromagnetic on-off valve, and is controlled to open and close by the control unit 140a.

[0076] (2-2-3-5-2) On-off valve 230b The on-off valve 230b is provided in the second pipe 420. The on-off valve 230b allows or blocks communication of the second pipe 420. The on-off valve 230b is an electromagnetic on-off valve, and is controlled to open and close by the control unit 140a.

[0077] (2-2-3-5-3) On-off valve 230c The on-off valve 230c is provided in the third pipe 430. The on-off valve 230c allows or blocks communication of the third pipe 430. The on-off valve 230c is an electromagnetic on-off valve, and is controlled to open and close by the control unit 140b.

[0078] (2-2-3-5-4) On-off valve 230d The on-off valve 230d is provided in the fourth pipe 440. The on-off valve 230d allows or blocks communication of the fourth pipe 440. The on-off valve 230d is an electromagnetic on-off valve, and is controlled to open and close by the control unit 140b.

[0079] (2-2-4) Electrode rod The electrode rod 461 is a device for measuring the amount of refrigerant R in the storage section 460. The electrode rod 461 is electrically connected to the measurement calculation section 471. The electrode rod 461 is controlled by the control section 140 via the measurement calculation section 471. The electrode rod 461 is provided so that the positional relationship between the electrode rod 461 and the storage section 460 does not change. A detailed operation related to the electrode rod 461 will be described later.

[0080] (2-2-5) Control Unit The control unit 140 controls the operation of each part constituting the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 and the refrigerant amount measurement system 4. The control unit 140 is electrically connected to the indoor expansion mechanism 113, the detection unit 116, the first compressor 122, the outdoor expansion mechanism 124, the flow path switching mechanism 125, the on-off valve 230, and the calculation device 470 so as to be able to exchange control signals and information with them.

[0081] 2 is a control block diagram of the control unit 140. In this embodiment, the control unit 140 is installed outside the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100. The control unit 140 may be provided inside the casing of the outdoor unit 120, or in a server separate from the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100.

[0082] The control unit 140 controls the operation of each unit constituting the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 and the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 to perform air conditioning operation and refrigerant amount measurement operation. The air conditioning operation includes cooling operation and heating operation. The refrigerant amount measurement operation includes a first refrigerant amount measurement operation and a second refrigerant amount measurement operation. The refrigerant amount measurement operation is an operation of transferring refrigerant R from the refrigerant circulation path 150 to the storage unit 460, causing the measurement unit 401 to measure the amount of refrigerant R, and returning the refrigerant R from the storage unit 460 to the refrigerant circulation path 150.

[0083] The first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A is connected to a control unit 140a. The second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B is connected to a control unit 140b. The control units 140a and 140b are electrically connected to each other. The control units 140a and 140b cooperate with each other to perform air conditioning operation and refrigerant amount measurement operation, and therefore, hereinafter, the control units 140a and 140b are collectively referred to as the control unit 140.

[0084] The control of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 during cooling operation and heating operation will be described below. The refrigerant amount measuring operation will be described in detail later.

[0085] (Cooling operation) When the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 is instructed to perform cooling operation, the control unit 140 controls the flow path switching mechanism 125 to the state shown by the dashed line in FIG. 1 so that the state of the refrigerant circulation path 150 becomes the first state described above, and operates the first compressor 122.

[0086] When the first compressor 122 is operated, the low-pressure gas refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is compressed to become a high-pressure gas refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle. The high-pressure gas refrigerant is sent to the outdoor heat exchanger 123 via the flow path switching mechanism 125, where it exchanges heat with the heat source air and condenses to become a high-pressure liquid refrigerant. The high-pressure liquid refrigerant is sent to the indoor unit 110 via the fully opened indoor expansion mechanism 113 and the liquid side connection pipe 132. The refrigerant R in a gas-liquid two-phase state sent to the indoor unit 110 is decompressed to near the suction pressure of the first compressor 122 in the indoor expansion mechanism 113 with the opening reduced, becomes the refrigerant R in a gas-liquid two-phase state, and is sent to the indoor heat exchanger 112. The refrigerant R in the gas-liquid two-phase state exchanges heat with the air in the space to be air-conditioned in the indoor heat exchanger 112, evaporates, and becomes a low-pressure gas refrigerant. The low-pressure gas refrigerant is sent to the outdoor unit 120 via the gas side communication pipe 131, and is sucked into the first compressor 122 again via the flow path switching mechanism 125. The temperature of the air supplied to the indoor heat exchanger 112 is reduced by heat exchange with the refrigerant R flowing through the indoor heat exchanger 112. The air cooled by the indoor heat exchanger 112 is blown out into the space to be air-conditioned.

[0087] (Heating operation) When the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 is instructed to perform heating operation, the control unit 140 controls the flow path switching mechanism 125 to the state shown by the solid line in Figure 1 so that the state of the refrigerant circulation path 150 becomes the second state described above, and operates the first compressor 122.

[0088] When the first compressor 122 is operated, the low-pressure gas refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is compressed to become a high-pressure gas refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle. The high-pressure gas refrigerant is sent to the indoor unit 110 via the flow path switching mechanism 125 and the gas side communication pipe 131. The refrigerant R sent to the indoor unit 110 is sent to the indoor heat exchanger 112, where it exchanges heat with the air in the space to be air-conditioned and condenses to become a high-pressure liquid refrigerant. The air supplied to the indoor heat exchanger 112 exchanges heat with the refrigerant R flowing through the indoor heat exchanger 112, and the temperature of the air increases. The air heated by the indoor heat exchanger 112 is blown out into the space to be air-conditioned. The high-pressure liquid refrigerant flowing out from the indoor heat exchanger 112 is sent to the outdoor unit 120 via the fully opened indoor expansion mechanism 113 and the liquid side communication pipe 132. The refrigerant R sent to the outdoor unit 120 is decompressed to near the suction pressure of the first compressor 122 in the outdoor expansion mechanism 124, which has its opening narrowed, and becomes refrigerant R in a gas-liquid two-phase state, and is sent to the outdoor heat exchanger 123. The refrigerant R in the gas-liquid two-phase state exchanges heat with the heat source air in the outdoor heat exchanger 123, evaporating and becoming a low-pressure gas refrigerant. The low-pressure gas refrigerant is sucked into the first compressor 122 again via the flow path switching mechanism 125.

[0089] The control unit 140 is realized by a computer. The control unit 140 includes a control arithmetic device and a storage device (both not shown). A processor such as a CPU or a GPU can be used for the control arithmetic device. The control arithmetic device reads out a program stored in the storage device, and performs predetermined image processing and arithmetic processing according to the program. Furthermore, the control arithmetic device can write the results of the calculation to the storage device and read out information stored in the storage device according to the program. The storage device can be used as a database. Specific functions realized by the control unit 140 will be described later.

[0090] Note that the configuration of control unit 140 described here is merely an example, and the functions of control unit 140 described below may be realized in software, in hardware, or in a combination of software and hardware.

[0091] (2-2-6) Arithmetic device The arithmetic device 470 is a device that performs calculations related to the measurement of the amount of refrigerant R in the storage unit 460, and records and stores the measurement results in a memory unit 472. FIG. 3 is a control block diagram of the arithmetic device 470. The arithmetic device 470 has a measurement calculation unit 471 and a memory unit 472. The arithmetic device 470 is electrically connected to the electrode rod 461 and the control unit 140. The arithmetic device 470 is controlled by the control unit 140.

[0092] The calculation device 470 may be provided near the location where the storage unit 460 is provided, in a building where the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 or the storage unit 460 is provided, or in a server or the like located away from the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100. The measurement calculation unit 471 and the memory unit 472 may be provided in different locations.

[0093] The arithmetic device 470 is realized by a computer. The arithmetic device 470 includes a control arithmetic device and a storage device (both not shown). A processor such as a CPU or a GPU can be used for the control arithmetic device. The control arithmetic device reads a program stored in the storage device, and performs predetermined image processing and arithmetic processing according to the program. Furthermore, the control arithmetic device can write the results of the calculation to the storage device and read information stored in the storage device according to the program. The storage device can be used as a database.

[0094] Note that the configuration of the arithmetic unit 470 described here is merely an example, and the functions of the arithmetic unit 470 described below may be realized in software, in hardware, or in a combination of software and hardware.

[0095] (2-2-6-1) Measurement and calculation section Measurement calculation unit 471 performs calculations related to the measurement of the amount of refrigerant R in storage unit 460, and records the measurement results in memory unit 472. Measurement calculation unit 471 is electrically connected to electrode rod 461 and control unit 140. Measurement calculation unit 471 is controlled by control unit 140. Detailed operations of measurement calculation unit 471 will be described later.

[0096] (2-2-6-2) Storage section The storage unit 472 is a storage device that stores the measurement results of the amount of refrigerant R in the storage unit 460. The storage unit 472 is electrically connected to the measurement calculation unit 471 and the control unit 140. The storage unit 472 is controlled by the control unit 140.

[0097] (3) Operation The refrigerant amount measuring operation executed by the control unit 140 of the refrigerant amount measuring system 4 will be described.

[0098] (3-1) Refrigerant amount measurement operation The refrigerant amount measurement operation is an operation for transferring refrigerant R from refrigerant circulation path 150 to storage section 460, causing measurement section 401 to measure the amount of refrigerant R, and returning refrigerant R from storage section 460 to refrigerant circulation path 150. The refrigerant amount measurement operation is an operation for measuring the amount of refrigerant charged in the refrigeration cycle apparatus at each time point from the start of use of the refrigeration cycle apparatus to its disposal, and for clarifying the refrigerant charged amount at the start of use, the refrigerant charged amount after the start of use, the refrigerant charged amount just before disposal, and the amount of leakage of refrigerant R from the difference between the refrigerant charged amount at the start of use and each time point. The refrigerant amount measurement operation includes a first refrigerant amount measurement operation and a second refrigerant amount measurement operation.

[0099] (3-1-1) First refrigerant amount measurement operation The first refrigerant amount measurement operation is an operation of transferring refrigerant R from refrigerant circulation path 150 of the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A to storage section 460, causing measurement section 401 to measure the amount of refrigerant R, and returning refrigerant R from storage section 460 to refrigerant circulation path 150 of the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A. The first refrigerant amount measurement operation will be described separately into an operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage section 460, an operation of causing measurement section 401 to measure the amount of refrigerant R, and an operation of returning refrigerant R to refrigerant circulation path 150.

[0100] (3-1-1-1) Transferring the refrigerant to the storage section (First half of the action) The first half of the operation of transferring the refrigerant R to the storage portion 460 is an operation of storing mainly liquid refrigerant R in the refrigerant circulation path 150. Fig. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the flow of the refrigerant R in the first half of the operation of transferring the refrigerant R to the storage portion 460.

[0101] In the first half of the operation of transferring the refrigerant R to the storage section 460, the control section 140a opens the indoor expansion mechanisms 113A for all indoor units 110A. Also, for the outdoor unit 120A, the control section 140a closes the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A of the first refrigeration cycle device 100A, sets the flow path switching mechanism 125A to the first state, and operates the first compressor 122 (On). Furthermore, for the refrigerant amount measurement system 4, the control section 140a opens the on-off valve 230b and closes the on-off valves 230 other than the on-off valve 230b. Specifically, the control section 140a closes the on-off valves 230a, 230c, and 230d.

[0102] By performing the first half of the operation of transferring the refrigerant R to the storage section 460, the refrigerant R in the indoor refrigerant flow path 111A is sucked by the first compressor 122A of the outdoor unit 120A, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 4. The refrigerant R sucked into the first compressor 122A is discharged from the first compressor 122A, and then passes through the flow path switching mechanism 125A and the outdoor heat exchanger 123A. The refrigerant R that passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 123A is sent to the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A, but since the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A is in a closed state, it flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129A. The refrigerant R that flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129A passes through the second pipe 420 and the liquid side pipe 452 and flows into the storage section 460. Since the on-off valves 230 other than the on-off valve 230b of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 are in a closed state, the refrigerant R that flows in is stored in the storage section 460.

[0103] When control unit 140a executes the first half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage unit 460 for a preset predetermined time T1, it ends the first half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage unit 460 and starts the second half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage unit 460. Predetermined time T1 is set, for example, to a length that allows liquid refrigerant in refrigerant circulation path 150A to be stored in storage unit 460.

[0104] (Second half of the operation) The latter half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage portion 460 is an operation for storing in storage portion 460 mainly gas refrigerant that cannot be stored in storage portion 460 even by performing the first half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage portion 460 and remains in outdoor refrigerant flow path 121. Fig. 5 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the flow of refrigerant R in the latter half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage portion 460.

[0105] In the latter half of the operation of transferring the refrigerant R to the storage section 460, the control section 140a opens the on-off valve 230a in the storage section 460. For the other devices, the states in the first half of the operation of transferring the refrigerant R to the storage section 460 are maintained.

[0106] By performing the latter half of the operation of transferring the refrigerant R to the storage section 460, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 5, the gas refrigerant of the refrigerant R stored in the storage section 460 flows into the first tube 410 through the on-off valve 230a. The refrigerant R that flows into the first tube 410 is sent to the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121A, passes through the flow path switching mechanism 125A, and is sucked into the first compressor 122A. The refrigerant R that is sucked into the first compressor 122A is discharged from the first compressor 122A and passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 123A. The refrigerant R that passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 123A is sent to the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A, but since the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A is in a closed state, it flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129A. The refrigerant R that flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129A passes through the second tube 420 and returns to the storage section 460.

[0107] When control unit 140a executes the latter half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage unit 460 for a preset predetermined time T2, it ends the latter half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage unit 460. Predetermined time T2 is set, for example, to a length that allows refrigerant R remaining in refrigerant circulation path 150A to be collected in storage unit 460 after execution of the first half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage unit 460.

[0108] (3-1-1-2) Operation for causing measuring unit 401 to measure the amount of refrigerant The operation of having measurement unit 401 measure the amount of refrigerant R is an operation of having measurement unit 401 measure the amount of refrigerant R stored in storage unit 460. When a preset predetermined time T3 has elapsed from the time when the latter half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage unit 460 is completed, control unit 140a executes an operation of having measurement unit 401 measure the amount of refrigerant R.

[0109] (Measurement principle) 6 is a schematic diagram showing a storage section 460 in which refrigerant R is stored and an electrode rod 461. The capacitance C is determined by the distance X between the electrode rod 461 and the storage section 460, the dielectric constants ε of the air and the refrigerant R, and the electrode area S.

[0110] There is no change in the positional relationship between electrode rod 461 and storing portion 460. Therefore, distance X between electrode rod 461 and storing portion 460 is a fixed value.

[0111] When the temperature is constant, the dielectric constants ε of air and refrigerant R are also fixed values. For example, when the temperature is 0 degrees, the dielectric constant ε of air is 1.00059. When the temperature is 25 degrees and the refrigerant R is R32, the dielectric constant ε is 14.27. When the temperature is 25 degrees and the refrigerant R is R410A, the dielectric constant ε is 7.88.

[0112] Therefore, the capacitance C varies depending on the electrode area S. The width d of the cylindrical storage portion 460 is a fixed value. Therefore, the electrode area S is proportional to the liquid level h of the refrigerant R.

[0113] 7 is a diagram showing the relationship between the capacitance C and the liquid level h of the refrigerant R depending on the temperature. The dielectric constant ε of the refrigerant R decreases at high temperatures and increases at low temperatures.

[0114] Therefore, by measuring the capacitance C and the temperature of the refrigerant R and using other characteristic values, the liquid level h of the refrigerant R can be calculated, and the amount of refrigerant can be calculated.

[0115] (Measurement Operation) The storage unit 472 stores in advance the distance X, the width d, the dielectric constant ε of the air and the refrigerant R associated with the temperature, and the like.

[0116] When the operation of making the measurement unit 401 measure the amount of the refrigerant R is executed, the control unit 140a makes the electrode rod 461 measure the capacitance C in the storage unit 460 via the measurement calculation unit 471. The control unit 140a also makes a thermometer (not shown) measure the temperature of the refrigerant R. The measurement calculation unit 471 obtains the dielectric constant ε of the air and the refrigerant R by comparing the measured temperature of the refrigerant R with the dielectric constant ε of the air and the refrigerant R associated with the temperature recorded in the memory unit 472. The measurement calculation unit 471 obtains the liquid level height h of the refrigerant R and the amount of the refrigerant R based on the measured capacitance C, the distance X and the width d recorded in the memory unit 472, and the obtained dielectric constant ε of the air and the refrigerant R. The measurement calculation unit 471 records the obtained amount of the refrigerant R in the memory unit 472. The measurement calculation unit 471 may transmit the obtained amount of the refrigerant R to the control unit 140a.

[0117] Measurement calculation section 471 may perform calculations assuming that the dielectric constant ε of air is 1, regardless of changes in temperature.

[0118] The refrigerant amount measurement system 4 measures the amount of the refrigerant R based on the temperature of the refrigerant R measured by the thermometer. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can accurately determine the amount of refrigerant R even if the temperature changes.

[0119] Note that measurement calculation unit 471 may perform calculation processing to determine the difference between the measured refrigerant amount and the refrigerant charge amount at the start of use. In this case, the refrigerant charge amount at the start of use is recorded in advance in memory unit 472. Measurement calculation unit 471 performs calculation processing using the refrigerant charge amount at the start of use stored in memory unit 472 and the measured refrigerant amount. This allows refrigerant amount measurement system 4 to reduce the burden of the work of clarifying the amount of leakage of refrigerant R.

[0120] Furthermore, the measurement calculation unit 471 may determine whether or not the refrigerant R has leaked based on the refrigerant fill amount at the start of use, the refrigerant fill amount after the start of use, the refrigerant fill amount immediately before disposal, and the difference between the measured refrigerant amount and the refrigerant fill amount at the start of use. In this case, at least one of the refrigerant fill amount at the start of use, the refrigerant fill amount after the start of use, and the refrigerant fill amount immediately before disposal is recorded in advance in the memory unit 472. The measurement calculation unit 471 determines whether or not the refrigerant R has leaked based on at least one of the refrigerant fill amount at the start of use, the refrigerant fill amount after the start of use, and the refrigerant fill amount immediately before disposal stored in the memory unit 472, and the difference between the measured refrigerant amount and the refrigerant fill amount at the start of use. This allows the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 to reduce the burden of the work of clarifying the leakage amount of refrigerant R.

[0121] Furthermore, when it is determined that refrigerant R has leaked, the measurement calculation unit 471 may perform calculation processing to find the amount of leakage of refrigerant R based on the refrigerant fill amount at the start of use, the refrigerant fill amount after use has started, the refrigerant fill amount just before disposal, and the difference between the measured refrigerant amount and the refrigerant fill amount at the start of use. This allows the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 to reduce the burden of the work of clarifying the amount of leakage of refrigerant R.

[0122] (3-1-1-3) Operation of Returning the Coolant to the Coolant Circulation Path 150 The operation of returning the refrigerant R to the refrigerant circulation path 150 is an operation in which the refrigerant R stored in the storage portion 460 is filled into the refrigerant circulation path 150. In the following description, an example in which the refrigerant R is returned to the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A will be described. FIG 8 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of the refrigerant R in the operation of returning the refrigerant R to the refrigerant circulation path 150.

[0123] In the operation of returning the refrigerant R to the refrigerant circulation path 150, the control unit 140a opens the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A of the first refrigeration cycle device 100A of the outdoor unit 120A, sets the flow path switching mechanism 125A to the first state, and operates (On) the first compressor 122A. In addition, the control unit 140a opens the on-off valve 230a, and closes the on-off valves 230b, 230c, and 230d.

[0124] 8, the suction pressure of the first compressor 122A of the outdoor unit 120A acts on the inside of the storage unit 460 via the flow path switching mechanism 125, the gas side branch pipe 128A, and the first pipe 410. The suction pressure acting on the inside of the storage unit 460 causes the refrigerant R in the storage unit 460 to flow into the first pipe 410 and fill the refrigerant circulation path 150 via the gas side branch pipe 128A.

[0125] When the control unit 140a executes the operation of returning the refrigerant R to the refrigerant circulation path 150 for a preset predetermined time T4, the control unit 140a ends the operation of returning the refrigerant R to the refrigerant circulation path 150. The predetermined time T4 is set, for example, to a length that allows the refrigerant R stored in the storage unit 460 to fill the refrigerant circulation path 150.

[0126] (3-1-2) Second refrigerant amount measurement operation The second refrigerant amount measurement operation is an operation of transferring the refrigerant R from the refrigerant circulation path 150 of the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B to the storage section 460, causing the measurement section 401 to measure the amount of the refrigerant R, and causing the refrigerant R to return from the storage section 460 to the refrigerant circulation path 150 of the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B. The second refrigerant amount measurement operation is similar to the first refrigerant amount measurement operation. Therefore, the second refrigerant amount measurement operation will be briefly described.

[0127] (3-1-2-1) Transferring the refrigerant to the storage section (First half of the action) In the first half of the operation of transferring the refrigerant R to the storage section 460, the control section 140b opens the indoor expansion mechanisms 113B for all indoor units 110B. Also, for the outdoor unit 120B, the control section 140b closes the outdoor expansion mechanism 124B of the second refrigeration cycle device 100B, sets the flow path switching mechanism 125B to the first state, and operates the first compressor 122 (On). Furthermore, the control section 140b opens the on-off valve 230d, and closes the on-off valves 230 other than the on-off valve 230d. Specifically, the control section 140b closes the on-off valves 230a, 230b, and 230c.

[0128] By executing the first half of the operation of transferring the refrigerant R to the storage section 460, the refrigerant R in the indoor refrigerant flow path 111B is sucked by the first compressor 122B of the outdoor unit 120B. The refrigerant R sucked into the first compressor 122B passes through the flow path switching mechanism 125B and the outdoor heat exchanger 123B after being discharged from the first compressor 122B. The refrigerant R that passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 123B is sent to the outdoor expansion mechanism 124B, but since the outdoor expansion mechanism 124B is in a closed state, it flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129B. The refrigerant R that flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129B passes through the fourth pipe 440 and the liquid side pipe 452 and flows into the storage section 460. Since the on-off valves 230 other than the on-off valve 230d of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 are in a closed state, the refrigerant R that flows in is stored in the storage section 460.

[0129] When control unit 140d executes the first half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage unit 460 for a preset predetermined time T1, it ends the first half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage unit 460 and starts the second half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage unit 460. Predetermined time T1 is set to a length that allows the liquid refrigerant in refrigerant circulation path 150B to be stored in storage unit 460, for example.

[0130] (Second half of the operation) In the latter half of the operation of transferring the refrigerant R to the storage portion 460, the control portion 140d opens the on-off valve 230c. For the other devices, the states in the first half of the operation of transferring the refrigerant R to the storage portion 460 are maintained.

[0131] By performing the latter half of the operation of transferring the refrigerant R to the storage section 460, the gas refrigerant of the refrigerant R stored in the storage section 460 flows into the third pipe 430 through the on-off valve 230c. The refrigerant R that flows into the third pipe 430 is sent to the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121B, passes through the flow path switching mechanism 125B, and is sucked into the first compressor 122B. The refrigerant R that is sucked into the first compressor 122B is discharged from the first compressor 122B and passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 123B. The refrigerant R that passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 123B is sent to the outdoor expansion mechanism 124B, but since the outdoor expansion mechanism 124B is in a closed state, it flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129B. The refrigerant R that flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129B passes through the fourth pipe 440 and returns to the storage section 460.

[0132] When control unit 140b executes the latter half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage unit 460 for a preset predetermined time T2, it ends the latter half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage unit 460. Predetermined time T2 is set, for example, to a length that allows the refrigerant remaining in refrigerant circulation path 150B to be collected in storage unit 460 after the latter half of the operation of transferring refrigerant R to storage unit 460 is executed.

[0133] (3-1-2-2) Operation for causing measuring unit 401 to measure the amount of refrigerant The operation of causing measurement unit 401 to measure the amount of refrigerant in the second refrigerant amount measurement operation is similar to the operation of causing measurement unit 401 to measure the amount of refrigerant in the first refrigerant amount measurement operation.

[0134] (3-1-2-3) Operation of Returning the Refrigerant to the Refrigerant Circulation Path 150 In the operation of returning the refrigerant R to the refrigerant circulation path 150, the control unit 140b opens the outdoor expansion mechanism 124B of the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B for the outdoor unit 120B, sets the flow path switching mechanism 125B to the first state, and operates (On) the first compressor 122B. In addition, the control unit 140b opens the on-off valve 230c, and closes the on-off valves 230a, 230b, and 230d.

[0135] By executing an operation to return the refrigerant R to the refrigerant circulation path 150, the suction pressure of the first compressor 122B of the outdoor unit 120B acts on the inside of the storage portion 460 via the flow path switching mechanism 125, the gas side branch pipe 128B, and the third pipe 430. The suction pressure acting on the inside of the storage portion 460 causes the refrigerant R in the storage portion 460 to flow into the third pipe 430 and fill the refrigerant circulation path 150 via the gas side branch pipe 128B.

[0136] When the control unit 140b executes the operation of returning the refrigerant R to the refrigerant circulation path 150 for a preset predetermined time T4, the control unit 140b ends the operation of returning the refrigerant R to the refrigerant circulation path 150. The predetermined time T4 is set, for example, to a length that allows the refrigerant R stored in the storage unit 460 to fill the refrigerant circulation path 150.

[0137] (4) Features (4-1) The refrigerant amount measurement system 4 includes a connection unit 400, a storage unit 460, a measurement unit 401, and a memory unit 472. The connection unit 400 is connected to the first refrigerant circuit of the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A. The storage unit 460 stores the refrigerant R in the first refrigerant circuit via the connection unit 400, and returns the stored refrigerant R to the first refrigerant circuit via the connection unit 400. The measurement unit 401 measures the amount of refrigerant R in the storage unit 460. The memory unit 472 stores the measurement results measured by the measurement unit 401.

[0138] The refrigeration system of Patent Document 1 detects a refrigerant shortage state by using a receiver tank that is internally connected to the refrigerant circuit. The refrigerant flows to the receiver tank built into the system even during normal operation (such as air conditioning operation). Therefore, the refrigeration system of Patent Document 1 requires an amount of refrigerant corresponding to the volume of the receiver tank in addition to the amount of refrigerant corresponding to the existing refrigerant circuit. Furthermore, the refrigeration system of Patent Document 1 causes a pressure loss of the refrigerant when it passes through the receiver tank.

[0139] The refrigerant amount measurement system 4 stores the refrigerant R in the first refrigerant circuit in a storage section 460 that is externally connected to the first refrigerant circuit. The refrigerant amount measurement system 4 measures the amount of refrigerant R and stores the measurement result. The refrigerant amount measurement system 4 returns the stored refrigerant R from the storage section 460 that is externally connected to the first refrigerant circuit to the first refrigerant circuit. Since the storage section 460 is externally connected, when the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A is normally operated, the refrigerant R in the first refrigerant circuit does not flow to the storage section 460. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system can clarify the charging amount and leakage amount of refrigerant in the first refrigerant circuit without causing an additional refrigerant amount or pressure loss.

[0140] The refrigeration device of Patent Document 1 measures the difference in liquid level height using a liquid level detection unit. A user of this refrigeration device can grasp the difference in liquid level height between points in time when the liquid level detection unit is used, and can grasp a shortage of refrigerant (refrigerant leakage). However, it is difficult for a user of this refrigeration device to grasp the actual filling amount (initial filling amount, filling amount at any point in time, etc.). As a result, a user of this refrigeration device cannot associate the filling amount with the point in time to grasp the details of the process related to filling and leakage.

[0141] The refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can measure the filling amount at any point in time. A user of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can not only determine whether or not refrigerant R has leaked, but also associate the filling amount with a point in time. A user of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can understand in detail the circumstances surrounding the filling and leakage. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can more clearly clarify the filling amount and leakage amount of refrigerant R in the first refrigerant circuit.

[0142] Manually recording the filling amount measurement results increases the amount of work required and there is a risk of measurement results being missed due to human error or the measurement results being lost due to deterioration of the recording medium over time. This refrigerant amount measurement system 4 stores the measurement results measured by the measurement unit 401 in the memory unit 472. A user of this refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can know the filling amount measurement results without any omissions, and the amount of work required to store the measurement results can be reduced. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can more clearly clarify the filling amount and leakage amount of refrigerant R in the first refrigerant circuit, and can reduce the amount of work required to store the measurement results.

[0143] (4-2) In the refrigerant amount measurement system 4, a connection part 400 has a first pipe 410 and a second pipe 420. In addition, an on-off valve 230 is provided in each of the first pipe 410 and the second pipe 420.

[0144] The connection part 400 of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 has a first tube 410 and a second tube 420. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can be divided into the first tube 410 and the second tube 420 according to the state of the refrigerant R and connected to the first refrigerant circuit. Also, the first tube 410 and the second tube 420 are each provided with an on-off valve 230. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can allow or block communication between the first tube 410 and the second tube 420.

[0145] (4-3) The refrigerant amount measurement system 4 further includes a control unit 140. The control unit 140 performs a first refrigerant amount measurement operation. The first refrigerant amount measurement operation is an operation of controlling the first refrigeration cycle device 100A and the on-off valve 230 to transfer the refrigerant R from the first refrigerant circuit to the storage unit 460, causing the measurement unit 401 to measure the amount of the refrigerant R, and causing the refrigerant R to return from the storage unit 460 to the first refrigerant circuit.

[0146] The control unit 140 of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 performs a first refrigerant amount measurement operation. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can reduce the effort required for clarifying the filling amount and leakage amount of refrigerant R in the first refrigerant circuit.

[0147] The refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can automatically measure the filling amount by the control unit 140. The refrigerant amount measurement system 4 stores the automatically measured filling amount in the memory unit 472. A user of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can know the filling amount that was automatically measured at a past point in time by the memory unit 472. This allows a user of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 to associate the filling amount with a past point in time and to know in more detail the circumstances related to filling and leakage. This allows the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 to more clearly clarify the filling amount and leakage amount of refrigerant R in the first refrigerant circuit.

[0148] (4-4) In the refrigerant amount measurement system 4, the connection part 400 is also connected to the second refrigerant circuit of the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B. The control unit 140 further has a third pipe 430 and a fourth pipe 440 each provided with an on-off valve 230. Furthermore, the connection part 400 is connected to the first refrigerant circuit by a first pipe 410 and a second pipe 420, and is connected to the second refrigerant circuit by the third pipe 430 and the fourth pipe 440.

[0149] The connection part 400 of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 is also connected to the second refrigerant circuit of the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can clarify the charging amount and leakage amount of the refrigerant R in the second refrigerant circuit. Furthermore, the connection part 400 of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 has a third tube 430 and a fourth tube 440. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can be divided into the third tube 430 and the fourth tube 440 according to the state of the refrigerant R and connected to the second refrigerant circuit. Furthermore, the third tube 430 and the fourth tube 440 are each provided with an on-off valve 230. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can allow or block communication between the third tube 430 and the fourth tube 440.

[0150] (4-5) In the refrigerant amount measurement system 4, the control unit 140 further performs a second refrigerant amount measurement operation. The second refrigerant amount measurement operation is an operation of controlling the second refrigeration cycle device 100B and the on-off valve 230 to transfer the refrigerant R from the second refrigerant circuit to the storage unit 460, causing the measurement unit 401 to measure the amount of the refrigerant R, and causing the refrigerant R to return from the storage unit 460 to the second refrigerant circuit.

[0151] The control unit 140 of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 further performs a second refrigerant amount measurement operation. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can also reduce the effort required for clarifying the filling amount and leakage amount of refrigerant R in the second refrigerant circuit.

[0152] (4-6) In the refrigerant amount measurement system 4, the measurement unit 401 has an electrode rod 461.

[0153] Measurement unit 401 of refrigerant amount measurement system 4 has electrode rod 461. Therefore, refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can use electrode rod 461 to more clearly determine the filling amount and leakage amount of refrigerant R.

[0154] (4-7) The refrigerant using system 1 includes a refrigerant amount measuring system 4 and a refrigeration cycle device 100.

[0155] The refrigerant using system 1 includes a refrigerant amount measuring system 4 and a refrigeration cycle apparatus 100. Therefore, the refrigerant using system 1 can clarify the charged amount and leakage amount of refrigerant R of the refrigeration cycle apparatus 100 included in the refrigerant using system 1.

[0156] (5) Variations (5-1) Variation 1A In the refrigerant amount measurement operation of the above-described embodiment, the refrigerant R is returned to the refrigerant circulation path 150 by the suction pressure. However, the operation of returning the refrigerant R to the refrigerant circulation path 150 is not limited to this. For example, an operation of returning the refrigerant R to the refrigerant circulation path 150 of the first refrigeration cycle device 100A will be described. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of the refrigerant R in the operation of returning the refrigerant R to the refrigerant circulation path 150.

[0157] In the operation of returning the refrigerant R to the refrigerant circulation path 150, the control unit 140a opens the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A of the first refrigeration cycle device 100A in the outdoor unit 120A, sets the flow path switching mechanism 125A in the second state, and operates the first compressor 122A (On). In addition, the control unit 140a opens the on-off valves 230a and 230b, and closes the on-off valves 230c and 230d.

[0158] 9, the discharge pressure of the first compressor 122A of the outdoor unit 120A acts on the storage section 460 via the flow path switching mechanism 125, the gas side branch pipe 128A, and the first pipe 410. The discharge pressure acting on the storage section 460 causes the refrigerant R in the storage section 460 to bypass the check valve 455 and flow into the second pipe 420, and then fills the refrigerant circulation path 150 via the liquid side branch pipe 129.

[0159] The operation of returning the refrigerant R to the refrigerant circulation path 150 of the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B may be performed in the same manner as described above.

[0160] (5-2) Variation 1B Control unit 140 may perform the first refrigerant amount measurement operation and the second refrigerant amount measurement operation at different times. Control unit 140a and control unit 140b are electrically connected to each other and cooperate with each other, so that control unit 140a and control unit 140b can perform the first refrigerant amount measurement operation and the second refrigerant amount measurement operation at different times.

[0161] The control unit 140 of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 according to this embodiment performs the first refrigerant amount measurement operation and the second refrigerant amount measurement operation at different times. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can separately clarify the filling amount and leakage amount of refrigerant R in the first refrigerant circuit and the filling amount and leakage amount of refrigerant R in the second refrigerant circuit.

[0162] (5-3) Variation 1C The control unit 140 may perform the first refrigerant amount measurement operation during a time period when the normal operation of the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A is stopped. The control unit 140 may perform the second refrigerant amount measurement operation during a time period when the normal operation of the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B is stopped. Examples of the normal operation include cooling operation, heating operation, hot water supply operation, refrigeration operation, freezing operation, and floor heating operation.

[0163] The control unit 140 of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 according to this embodiment performs a first refrigerant amount measurement operation during a time period when the normal operation of the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A is stopped. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 is not affected by the normal operation of the first refrigeration cycle apparatus 100A, and can more clearly determine the filling amount and leakage amount of refrigerant R in the first refrigerant circuit. Furthermore, the control unit 140 performs a second refrigerant amount measurement operation during a time period when the normal operation of the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B is stopped. Therefore, the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 is not affected by the normal operation of the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B, and can more clearly determine the filling amount and leakage amount of refrigerant R in the second refrigerant circuit.

[0164] (5-4) Variation 1D The on-off valve 230 in the above-described embodiment is controlled by the control unit 140 and automatically allows or blocks communication of the pipes. However, in addition to or instead of the above-described embodiment, the on-off valve 230 may manually allow or block communication of the pipes.

[0165] By manually allowing or blocking the communication of the pipes using the on-off valve 230, the communication of the pipes can be allowed or blocked even in a situation where control by the control unit 140 is difficult.

[0166] <Second embodiment> (1) Composition A refrigerant using system 1 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described, focusing on the differences from the refrigerant using system 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0167] The control unit 140 of the refrigerant using system 1 according to the second embodiment performs a storing operation in addition to the operation executed by the control unit 140 of the refrigerant using system 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0168] (2) Operation (2-1) Storage operation The storage operation is an operation of transferring the refrigerant R from the refrigerant circulation path 150 to the storage section 460 when the refrigerant R leaks from the refrigerant circulation path 150. The storage operation is performed, for example, to suppress further leakage of the refrigerant R when the refrigerant R leaks from the refrigerant circulation path 150. The storage operation includes a first storage operation and a second storage operation.

[0169] (2-1-1) First storage operation The first storing operation is an operation for transferring the refrigerant R from the refrigerant circulation path 150 to the storage section 460 when the refrigerant R leaks from the refrigerant circulation path 150 of the first refrigeration cycle device 100A. The first storing operation includes a first half operation and a second half operation.

[0170] (First half of the action) The first half of the first storing operation is an operation for storing mainly liquid refrigerant of the refrigerant R in the refrigerant circulation path 150. Fig. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the flow of the refrigerant R in the first half of the first storing operation.

[0171] In the first half of the first storage operation, the control unit 140a opens the indoor expansion mechanisms 113A for all indoor units 110A. In addition, for the outdoor unit 120A, the control unit 140a closes the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A of the first refrigeration cycle device 100A, sets the flow path switching mechanism 125A to the first state, and operates the first compressor 122 (On). Furthermore, for the refrigerant amount measurement system 4, the control unit 140a opens the on-off valve 230b and closes the on-off valves 230 other than the on-off valve 230b. Specifically, the control unit 140a closes the on-off valves 230a, 230c, and 230d.

[0172] 10, the refrigerant R in the indoor refrigerant flow passage 111A is sucked by the first compressor 122A of the outdoor unit 120A. After being discharged from the first compressor 122A, the refrigerant R passes through the flow passage switching mechanism 125A and the outdoor heat exchanger 123A. The refrigerant R that passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 123A is sent to the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A, but since the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A is in a closed state, it flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129A. The refrigerant R that flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129A passes through the second pipe 420 and the liquid side pipe 452 and flows into the storage section 460. Since the on-off valves 230 other than the on-off valve 230b of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 are in a closed state, the refrigerant R that flows in is stored in the storage section 460.

[0173] When the control unit 140a executes the first half of the first storing operation for a preset predetermined time T5, the control unit 140a ends the first half of the first storing operation and starts the second half of the first storing operation. The predetermined time T5 is set to a length that allows the liquid refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path 150A to be stored in the storage unit 460, for example.

[0174] (Second half of the operation) The latter half of the first storage operation is an operation for storing, in storage section 460, mainly gas refrigerant that has not been stored in storage section 460 even by performing the first half of the first storage operation and remains in outdoor refrigerant flow path 121. Fig. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the flow of refrigerant R in the latter half of the first storage operation.

[0175] In the latter half of the first storing operation, the control unit 140a opens the on-off valve 230a. The other devices are maintained in the states in the first half of the first storing operation.

[0176] 11, the gas refrigerant R stored in the storage section 460 flows into the first tube 410 through the on-off valve 230a. The refrigerant R that flows into the first tube 410 is sent to the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121A, passes through the flow path switching mechanism 125A, and is sucked into the first compressor 122A. The refrigerant R that is sucked into the first compressor 122A is discharged from the first compressor 122A and passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 123A. The refrigerant R that passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 123A is sent to the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A, but since the outdoor expansion mechanism 124A is in a closed state, it flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129A. The refrigerant R that flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129A passes through the second tube 420 and returns to the storage section 460.

[0177] When the control unit 140a executes the latter half of the first storage operation for a preset predetermined time T6, the control unit 140a ends the latter half of the first storage operation. The predetermined time T6 is set, for example, to a length that allows the refrigerant R remaining in the refrigerant circulation path 150A after the execution of the first half of the first storage operation to be collected in the storage unit 460.

[0178] As described above, when the control unit 140a executes the first storage operation, even if the refrigerant R leaks from the refrigerant circulation path 150A, the refrigerant R in the refrigerant circulation path 150A is stored in the storage unit 460, thereby further suppressing leakage of the refrigerant R.

[0179] (2-1-2) Second storage operation The second storing operation is an operation for transferring the refrigerant R from the refrigerant circulation path 150 to the storage section 460 when the refrigerant R leaks from the refrigerant circulation path 150 of the second refrigeration cycle apparatus 100B. The second storing operation is similar to the first storing operation.

[0180] (First half of the action) In the first half of the second storage operation, the control unit 140b opens the indoor expansion mechanisms 113B for all indoor units 110B. Also, for the outdoor unit 120B, the control unit 140b closes the outdoor expansion mechanism 124B of the second refrigeration cycle device 100B, sets the flow path switching mechanism 125B to the first state, and operates the first compressor 122 (On). Furthermore, the control unit 140b opens the on-off valve 230d and closes the on-off valves 230 other than the on-off valve 230d. Specifically, the control unit 140b closes the on-off valves 230a, 230b, and 230c.

[0181] By executing the first half of the second storage operation, the refrigerant R in the indoor refrigerant flow passage 111B is sucked by the first compressor 122B of the outdoor unit 120B. The refrigerant R sucked into the first compressor 122B passes through the flow passage switching mechanism 125B and the outdoor heat exchanger 123B after being discharged from the first compressor 122B. The refrigerant R that passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 123B is sent to the outdoor expansion mechanism 124B, but since the outdoor expansion mechanism 124B is in a closed state, it flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129B. The refrigerant R that flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129B passes through the fourth pipe 440 and the liquid side pipe 452 and flows into the storage section 460. Since the on-off valves 230 other than the on-off valve 230d of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 are in a closed state, the refrigerant R that flows in is stored in the storage section 460.

[0182] When the control unit 140d executes the first half of the second storing operation for a preset predetermined time T7, the control unit 140d ends the first half of the second storing operation and starts the second half of the second storing operation. The predetermined time T7 is set to a length that allows the liquid refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation path 150B to be stored in the storage unit 460, for example.

[0183] (Second half of the operation) In the latter half of the second storing operation, the control unit 140d opens the on-off valve 230c. As for the other devices, the states in the first half of the operation of transferring the refrigerant R to the storing unit 460 are maintained.

[0184] By performing the latter half of the second storage operation, the gas refrigerant of the refrigerant R stored in the storage section 460 flows into the third pipe 430 through the on-off valve 230c. The refrigerant R that flows into the third pipe 430 is sent to the outdoor refrigerant flow path 121B, passes through the flow path switching mechanism 125B, and is sucked into the first compressor 122B. The refrigerant R that is sucked into the first compressor 122B is discharged from the first compressor 122B and passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 123B. The refrigerant R that passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 123B is sent to the outdoor expansion mechanism 124B, but since the outdoor expansion mechanism 124B is in a closed state, it flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129B. The refrigerant R that flows into the liquid side branch pipe 129B passes through the fourth pipe 440 and returns to the storage section 460.

[0185] When the control unit 140b executes the latter half of the second storing operation for a preset predetermined time T8, the control unit 140b ends the latter half of the second storing operation. The predetermined time T8 is set, for example, to a length that allows the refrigerant remaining in the refrigerant circulation path 150B to be collected in the storage unit 460 after the execution of the latter half of the second storing operation.

[0186] As described above, when the control unit 140b executes the second storage operation, even if the refrigerant R leaks from the refrigerant circulation path 150B, the refrigerant R in the refrigerant circulation path 150B is stored in the storage unit 460, thereby further suppressing leakage of the refrigerant R.

[0187] (3) Features In the refrigerant amount measurement system 4, the control unit 140 performs a first storage operation and a second storage operation. The first storage operation is an operation of transferring the refrigerant R from the first refrigerant circuit to the storage unit 460 when the refrigerant R leaks from the first refrigerant circuit. The second storage operation is an operation of transferring the refrigerant R from the second refrigerant circuit to the storage unit 460 when the refrigerant R leaks from the second refrigerant circuit.

[0188] The control unit 140 of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 performs a first storing operation. Therefore, when the refrigerant R in the first refrigerant circuit leaks, the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 stores the refrigerant R in the first refrigerant circuit in the storage unit 460, and can suppress release of the refrigerant R into the atmosphere. Furthermore, the control unit 140 of the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 performs a second storing operation. Therefore, when the refrigerant R in the second refrigerant circuit leaks, the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 stores the refrigerant R in the second refrigerant circuit in the storage unit 460, and can suppress release of the refrigerant R into the atmosphere.

[0189] <Third embodiment> (1) Overall structure A refrigerant using system 1 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described, focusing on the differences from the refrigerant using system 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0190] The measurement unit 401 of the refrigerant using system 1 according to the third embodiment further includes a cylindrical member 462 in addition to the components of the measurement unit 401 of the refrigerant using system 1 according to the first embodiment. The measurement unit 401 includes a measurement calculation unit 471, an electrode rod 461, and a cylindrical member 462.

[0191] (2) Detailed configuration Fig. 12A is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a storage section 460, an electrode bar 461, and a cylindrical member 462. The cylindrical member 462 is a member that surrounds the electrode bar 461. Fig. 12B is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section A in Fig. 12A. Unlike the first embodiment, a measurement calculation section 471 uses a distance X between the electrode bar 461 and the cylindrical member 462 when measuring the amount of refrigerant.

[0192] Cylindrical member 462 enables measurement unit 401 to measure the amount of refrigerant with high accuracy even when the positional relationship between storage unit 460 and electrode rod 461 changes or when the shape of the wall surface of storage unit 460 changes. Furthermore, since the amount of refrigerant can be measured with high accuracy regardless of the shape of storage unit 460, the shape of electrode rod 461, the position of electrode rod 461, and the like, design and manufacture of refrigerant amount measurement system 4 becomes easier.

[0193] (3) Features In the refrigerant amount measurement system 4, the measurement unit 401 further includes a cylindrical member 462 that surrounds the electrode rod 461.

[0194] Measurement unit 401 of this refrigerant amount measurement system 4 further has a tubular member 462 that surrounds electrode rod 461. Therefore, this refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can use tubular member 462 to more clearly determine the filling amount and leakage amount of refrigerant R.

[0195] (4) Variations (4-1) Variation 1A In the above embodiment, the measurement unit 401 measures the amount of refrigerant R using a capacitance type method. However, the method of measuring the amount of refrigerant R by the measurement unit 401 is not limited to this. The measurement unit 401 may measure the amount of refrigerant R using at least one of the following methods: a radio wave type, an ultrasonic type, a float type, a pressure type, a differential pressure type, and a capacitance type.

[0196] The radio wave type is a method for measuring the amount of refrigerant by measuring the time it takes for radio waves to reflect off the liquid surface of refrigerant R and return. The ultrasonic type is a method for measuring the amount of refrigerant by measuring the time it takes for ultrasonic waves to reflect off the liquid surface of refrigerant R and return. The float type is a method for measuring the amount of refrigerant by measuring the height of a float floating on the liquid surface of refrigerant R. The pressure type is a method for measuring the amount of refrigerant by measuring the pressure value of the liquid bottom surface of refrigerant R. The differential pressure type is a method for measuring the amount of refrigerant by measuring the differential pressure value between the liquid bottom surface and the top surface of storage section 460.

[0197] In the refrigerant amount measurement system 4 according to this embodiment, the measurement unit 401 measures the amount of the refrigerant R by at least one of the following methods: radio wave type, ultrasonic type, float type, pressure type, differential pressure type, and capacitance type.

[0198] Measurement unit 401 of this refrigerant amount measurement system 4 measures the amount of refrigerant R by at least one of the following methods: radio wave method, ultrasonic method, float method, pressure method, differential pressure method, and capacitance method. Therefore, this refrigerant amount measurement system 4 can more clearly determine the filling amount and leakage amount of refrigerant R based on a variety of methods.

[0199] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0200] 1. Refrigerant-using systems 4 Refrigerant quantity measurement system 100 Refrigeration cycle device 100A First refrigeration cycle device 100B Second refrigeration cycle device 110 Indoor unit 111 Indoor refrigerant flow path 112 Indoor heat exchanger 113 Indoor expansion mechanism 114 Gas side connection 115 Liquid side connection 116 Detection unit 120 Outdoor unit 121 Outdoor refrigerant flow path 121b First refrigerant piping 121c Second refrigerant piping 121d Third refrigerant piping 122 First Compressor 123 Outdoor heat exchanger 124 Outdoor expansion mechanism 125 Flow path switching mechanism 126 Gas side connection 127 Liquid side connection 128 Gas side branch pipe 129 Liquid side branch piping 131 Gas side connecting pipe 132 Liquid side connecting pipe 140 (140a, 140b) control unit 150 Refrigerant circuit 230 (230a, 230b, 230c, 230d) shut-off valve 400 Connection 401 Measuring part 410 1st pipe 420 2nd pipe 430 3rd pipe 440 4th pipe 451 Gas side piping 452 Liquid side piping 455 Check valve 460 Storage Unit 461 Electrode rod 462 Cylinder parts 470 Arithmetic equipment 471 Measurement and Calculation Unit 472 Storage section [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0201] [Patent Document 1] JP 2010-190545 A

Claims

1. A refrigerant usage system (1) comprising a first refrigeration cycle device (100A), a refrigerant amount measurement system (4), and a control unit (140), The first refrigeration cycle device (100A) comprises: a first refrigerant circuit including a first compressor (122), an outdoor heat exchanger (123), and an indoor heat exchanger (112); having The refrigerant amount measurement system (4) comprises: a connection portion (400) connected to the first refrigerant circuit and having a first pipe (410) and a second pipe (420), each of which is provided with an on-off valve (230); a storage section (460) that stores the refrigerant (R) in the first refrigerant circuit through the connection section and returns the stored refrigerant to the first refrigerant circuit through the connection section; A measurement unit (401) for measuring the amount of the refrigerant in the storage unit; A memory unit (472) that stores the measurement results measured by the measurement unit; having The control unit (140) Controlling the first compressor of the first refrigeration cycle device to perform normal operation; and, performing a first refrigerant amount measurement operation by controlling the first compressor and the on-off valve of the refrigerant amount measurement system of the first refrigeration cycle device to transfer the refrigerant from the first refrigerant circuit to the storage section, causing the measurement section to measure the amount of the refrigerant, and returning the refrigerant from the storage section to the first refrigerant circuit; The control unit performs the first refrigerant amount measuring operation during a time period when normal operation of the first refrigeration cycle device is stopped. Refrigerant-using system (1).

2. a connection part (400) connected to a first refrigerant circuit of a first refrigeration cycle device (100A) and having a first pipe (410) and a second pipe (420), each of which is provided with an on-off valve (230); a storage section (460) that stores the refrigerant (R) in the first refrigerant circuit through the connection section and returns the stored refrigerant to the first refrigerant circuit through the connection section; A measurement unit (401) for measuring the amount of the refrigerant in the storage unit; A memory unit (472) that stores the measurement results measured by the measurement unit; a control unit (140) that performs a first refrigerant amount measurement operation by controlling the first refrigeration cycle device and the on-off valve to transfer the refrigerant from the first refrigerant circuit to the storage unit, cause the measurement unit to measure the amount of the refrigerant, and return the refrigerant from the storage unit to the first refrigerant circuit; Equipped with The control unit performs the first refrigerant amount measuring operation during a time period when a normal operation of the first refrigeration cycle device is stopped, The control unit performs a first storing operation of transferring the refrigerant from the first refrigerant circuit to the storing unit when the refrigerant leaks from the first refrigerant circuit. Refrigerant quantity measurement system (4).

3. The control unit, in the first refrigerant amount measuring operation, causes the measuring unit to measure a refrigerant charge amount of the first refrigerant circuit of the first refrigeration cycle device. A refrigerant-using system (1) according to claim 1.

4. The storage unit is externally connected to the first refrigerant circuit of the first refrigeration cycle device. A refrigerant-using system (1) according to claim 1 or claim 3.

5. a connection part (400) connected to a first refrigerant circuit of a first refrigeration cycle device (100A) and having a first pipe (410) and a second pipe (420), each of which is provided with an on-off valve (230); a storage section (460) that stores the refrigerant (R) in the first refrigerant circuit through the connection section and returns the stored refrigerant to the first refrigerant circuit through the connection section; A measurement unit (401) for measuring the amount of the refrigerant in the storage unit; A memory unit (472) that stores the measurement results measured by the measurement unit; a control unit (140) that performs a first refrigerant amount measurement operation by controlling the first refrigeration cycle device and the on-off valve to transfer the refrigerant from the first refrigerant circuit to the storage unit, cause the measurement unit to measure the amount of the refrigerant, and return the refrigerant from the storage unit to the first refrigerant circuit; Equipped with The control unit performs the first refrigerant amount measuring operation during a time period when a normal operation of the first refrigeration cycle device is stopped, The connection part is also connected to a second refrigerant circuit of a second refrigeration cycle device (100B), The connection portion further includes a third pipe (430) and a fourth pipe (440) each provided with an on-off valve, The connection portion is connected to the first refrigerant circuit by the first pipe and the second pipe, and is connected to the second refrigerant circuit by the third pipe and the fourth pipe. Refrigerant quantity measurement system.

6. The control unit further performs a second refrigerant amount measurement operation by controlling the second refrigeration cycle device and the on-off valve to transfer the refrigerant from the second refrigerant circuit to the storage unit, causing the measurement unit to measure the amount of the refrigerant, and returning the refrigerant from the storage unit to the second refrigerant circuit.

6. A refrigerant amount measurement system according to claim 5.

7. The control unit performs the first refrigerant amount measuring operation and the second refrigerant amount measuring operation at different times.

7. The refrigerant amount measurement system of claim 6.

8. The control unit performs the second refrigerant amount measuring operation during a time period when normal operation of the second refrigeration cycle device is stopped.

7. The refrigerant amount measurement system of claim 6.

9. The control unit performs a second storing operation of transferring the refrigerant from the second refrigerant circuit to the storing unit when the refrigerant leaks from the second refrigerant circuit.

6. A refrigerant amount measurement system according to claim 5.

10. The measurement unit measures the amount of the refrigerant by at least one of a radio wave type, an ultrasonic type, a float type, a pressure type, a differential pressure type, and a capacitance type. A refrigerant-using system (1) according to claim 1.

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