Control and Refrigeration Systems

Abstract

To allow a specific cooling unit (50) to perform a cooling operation preferentially.SOLUTION: A control part (33) outputs control information for controlling a cooling operation of each of a plurality of cooling units (50) so that, out of the plurality of cooling units (50), the cooling units (50) whose priority is high can perform a cooling operation preferentially, based on priority information showing priority of each of the plurality of cooling units (50), first information which can be used to lead-out cooling capacity required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50), and second information which can be used to lead-out capacity that can be actually exerted in a heat source unit (40).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to control systems and refrigeration systems. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a refrigeration system including a refrigeration unit and a plurality of showcases. The refrigeration unit includes a first compressor, a first radiator, and a refrigeration controller. The showcase includes an expansion valve, an evaporator, and a showcase controller. The first compressor, the first radiator, the expansion valve, and the evaporator form a first refrigeration cycle circuit that cools the showcase.

[0003] The showcase controller controls the opening of the expansion valve according to the difference between the refrigerant temperature on the outlet side and the refrigerant temperature on the inlet side of the evaporator. As a result, the interior of the showcase is cooled to a predetermined temperature. Meanwhile, the refrigerator controller stops operation of the first compressor when the pressure on the low-pressure side of the first refrigeration cycle circuit falls below a predetermined value. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-011423 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the refrigeration device of Patent Document 1, the refrigeration unit is controlled independently by the refrigeration controller without considering the "cooling capacity required for each of the multiple showcases." Furthermore, if the capacity that the refrigeration unit can actually exert decreases, the cooling capacity of each of the multiple showcases will decrease uniformly. Therefore, it is not possible to control the cooling operation of each of the multiple showcases so that a specific showcase that needs to be cooled can be given priority in cooling. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A first aspect of the present disclosure relates to a control system applied to a refrigeration device (20) that has a refrigerant circuit (25) including a heat source unit (40) having a compression element (42) and a radiator (43), and a plurality of cooling units (50), each having an evaporator (52) and performing or stopping a cooling operation depending on the difference between the temperature of an object to be cooled and a set temperature, and that performs a refrigeration cycle by circulating a refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (25). The control system includes a control unit (33) that controls the refrigeration device (20). The control unit (33) outputs control information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) so that a cooling unit (50) with a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) can perform the cooling operation preferentially over a cooling unit (50) with a lower priority, based on priority information indicating the priority of each of the plurality of cooling units (50), first information that can be used to derive a cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50), and second information that can be used to derive a capacity that can actually be exerted by the heat source unit (40).

[0007] In the first aspect, the cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50) can be derived based on the first information. Furthermore, the capacity that can actually be exerted by the heat source unit (40) can be derived based on the second information. Then, taking into consideration the "cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50)" and the "capacity that can actually be exerted by the heat source unit (40)," it is possible to output "control information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) so that a cooling unit (50) with a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) can perform the cooling operation with priority over a cooling unit (50) with a lower priority." This allows, for example, even when the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient, to prioritize the operation of a cooling unit that requires cooling.

[0008] A second aspect of the present disclosure is a control system in which, in the control system of the first aspect, each of the plurality of cooling units (50) has a showcase (50a), cools the air in the showcase (50a) during the cooling operation, and the priority of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is set according to the type of contents stored in the showcase (50a) of that cooling unit (50).

[0009] In the second aspect, the priority of the cooling unit (50) can be appropriately set depending on the type of items stored in the showcase (50a) of the cooling unit (50), thereby enabling appropriate processing based on the priority of the cooling unit (50).

[0010] A third aspect of the present disclosure is a control system in which, in the control system of the first or second aspect, the control unit (33) outputs the control information when a capacity corresponding to the total cooling capacity required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is greater than a capacity that can actually be exerted in the heat source unit (40).

[0011] In the third aspect, when the capacity that the heat source unit (40) can actually exert is insufficient, the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) can be controlled based on the control information so that the cooling unit (50) having a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) can perform the cooling operation preferentially over the cooling units (50) having a lower priority. This makes it easier to ensure the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50) having a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) even when the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient.

[0012] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure is a control system according to the third aspect, wherein the control information is information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) so that a cooling unit (50) having a lower priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) stops its cooling operation preferentially over a cooling unit (50) having a higher priority.

[0013] In the fourth aspect, based on the control information, the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) can be controlled such that a cooling unit (50) having a lower priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) stops its cooling operation preferentially over a cooling unit (50) having a higher priority. This makes it easier to ensure the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50) having a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) even when the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient.

[0014] A fifth aspect of the present disclosure is a control system in which, in the control system of the third or fourth aspect, the control information is information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) so that a cooling unit (50) having a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) can ensure cooling capacity preferentially over a cooling unit (50) having a lower priority.

[0015] In the fifth aspect, based on the control information, the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) can be controlled so that the cooling unit (50) having a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) can secure the cooling capacity preferentially over the cooling unit (50) having a lower priority. This makes it easier to secure the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50) having a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) even when the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient.

[0016] A sixth aspect of the present disclosure is a control system according to any one of the third to fifth aspects, wherein the first information includes information relating to a representative cooling capacity which is a representative value of the cooling capacity of each of the plurality of cooling units (50), and the total cooling capacity required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is the total of the representative cooling capacities of each of the plurality of cooling units (50).

[0017] In the sixth aspect, it is possible to appropriately determine whether the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient based on the sum of the representative cooling capacities of the plurality of cooling units (50), thereby enabling appropriate processing for outputting control information.

[0018] A seventh aspect of the present disclosure is a control system according to any one of the third to fifth aspects, wherein the control unit (33) outputs the control information based on the priority information, the first information, the second information, and third information indicating the temperature of the object to be cooled and the set temperature in each of the plurality of cooling units (50), the first information includes information that can be used to derive a predicted cooling capacity, which is a predicted value of the cooling capacity required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50), and the sum of the cooling capacities required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is the sum of the predicted cooling capacities of each of the plurality of cooling units (50).

[0019] In the seventh aspect, it is possible to appropriately determine whether the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient based on the sum of the predicted cooling capacities of the plurality of cooling units (50), thereby enabling appropriate processing for outputting control information.

[0020] An eighth aspect of the present disclosure is a control system in which, in any one of the first to seventh aspects, the priorities include a first priority and a second priority lower than the first priority, the first priority being a priority set for a cooling unit (50) among the plurality of cooling units (50) that is prohibited from forcibly stopping the cooling operation, and the second priority being a priority set for a cooling unit (50) among the plurality of cooling units (50) that is permitted to forcibly stop the cooling operation.

[0021] In the eighth aspect, the plurality of cooling units (50) can be classified into cooling units (50) that may forcibly stop the cooling operation when the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient and cooling units (50) that do not stop the cooling operation even when the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient. This allows for smooth processing of selecting a "cooling unit (50) that forcibly stops the cooling operation" from among the plurality of cooling units (50) when the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient.

[0022] A ninth aspect of the present disclosure relates to a refrigeration system including the control system of any one of the first to eighth aspects, the refrigeration device (20), and an adjustment section (35) capable of adjusting the flow rate of refrigerant flowing through each of the plurality of cooling units (50), wherein the adjustment section (35) operates based on the control information.

[0023] In the ninth aspect, the adjustment section (35) capable of adjusting the flow rate of the refrigerant for each cooling unit (50) is operated based on the control information, thereby making it possible to perform control based on the priority of each cooling unit (50) (control of the cooling operation for each cooling unit (50)). [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a piping diagram illustrating the configuration of a refrigeration system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating connections between components in the refrigeration system according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the cooling unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the type of contents and the priority in the cooling unit. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the first heat source processing of the control system. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a first usage process of the control system. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the cooling capacity control of the control system. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating the second heat source process of the control system. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a second usage process of the control system. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a piping diagram illustrating the configuration of a refrigeration system according to a modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating connections between components in a refrigeration system according to a modified example of the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals and their description will not be repeated.

[0026] (Embodiment) 1 illustrates the configuration of a refrigeration system (10) according to an embodiment. The refrigeration system (10) includes a refrigeration unit (20), a control system (30) applied to the refrigeration unit (20), and an adjustment unit (35).

[0027] [Refrigeration equipment] The refrigeration system (20) includes a heat source unit (40) and a plurality of cooling units (50). The cooling units (50) have the same configuration. The cooling units (50) constitute a refrigeration facility such as a showcase, a refrigerator, or a freezer, and cool the interior of the refrigeration facility. For example, the heat source unit (40) is installed outdoors, and the cooling units (50) are installed indoors.

[0028] The heat source unit (40) includes a heat source circuit (41), a heat source fan (45), and a heat source control section (46). The heat source circuit (41) includes a compression element (42) and a heat source heat exchanger (43). Each of the plurality of cooling units (50) includes a utilization circuit (51), a utilization fan (55), and a utilization control section (56). The utilization circuit (51) includes a utilization heat exchanger (52) and a utilization expansion valve (53).

[0029] The heat source circuit (41) of the heat source unit (40) and the utilization circuits (51) of the plurality of cooling units (50) are connected by a gas connection pipe (21) and a liquid connection pipe (22). In this example, the utilization circuits (51) of the plurality of cooling units (50) are connected in parallel to the heat source circuit (41) of the heat source unit (40). Specifically, the gas connection pipe (21) is connected to the gas end of the heat source circuit (41), the liquid connection pipe (22) is connected to the liquid end of the heat source circuit (41), the gas end of the utilization circuit (51) is connected to the gas connection pipe (21), and the liquid end of the utilization circuit (51) is connected to the liquid connection pipe (22).

[0030] In this manner, the heat source circuit (41) of the heat source unit (40) and the utilization circuits (51) of the plurality of cooling units (50) are connected to form a refrigerant circuit (25). The refrigerant circuit (25) includes the heat source unit (40) and the plurality of cooling units (50). The refrigerant circuit (25) is filled with a refrigerant. For example, the refrigerant may be a natural refrigerant such as carbon dioxide, or other refrigerants. The refrigeration system (20) performs a refrigeration cycle by circulating the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (25).

[0031] <Compression element> The compression element (42) draws in a refrigerant, compresses the drawn refrigerant, and discharges the compressed refrigerant. An inlet of the compression element (42) is connected to one end of the gas communication pipe (21) through a refrigerant pipe.

[0032] In this example, the compression element (42) is composed of one compressor. The inlet of the compression element (42) is composed of a suction port of the compressor, and the outlet of the compression element (42) is composed of a discharge port of the compressor. For example, the compressor constituting the compression element (42) is a rotary compressor having an electric motor and a compression mechanism rotationally driven by the electric motor. Furthermore, the compressor constituting the compression element (42) is a variable displacement compressor whose rotation speed (operating frequency) is adjustable.

[0033] <Heat source fan> The heat source fan (45) is disposed near the heat source heat exchanger (43) and delivers heat source air to the heat source heat exchanger (43). For example, the heat source air is outdoor air.

[0034] <Heat source heat exchanger> The heat source heat exchanger (43) exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing through the heat source heat exchanger (43) and the heat source air transferred to the heat source heat exchanger (43). For example, the heat source heat exchanger (43) is a fin-and-tube heat exchanger. A gas end of the heat source heat exchanger (43) is connected to an outlet of the compression element (42) through a refrigerant pipe. A liquid end of the heat source heat exchanger (43) is connected to one end of the liquid connecting pipe (22) through a refrigerant pipe. In this example, the heat source heat exchanger (43) functions as a radiator.

[0035] <Heat source sensor> The heat source unit (40) is provided with a heat source sensor (60) that detects various physical quantities in each part of the heat source unit (40). For example, the heat source sensor (60) includes various sensors such as a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. Examples of the physical quantities detected by the heat source sensor (60) include the pressure and temperature of the high-pressure side (high-pressure refrigerant) of the refrigerant circuit (25), the pressure and temperature of the low-pressure side (low-pressure refrigerant) of the refrigerant circuit (25), the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant in the heat-source heat exchanger (43), and the temperature of the air drawn into the heat source unit (40). The heat source sensor (60) transmits a detection signal indicative of the detection result to the heat source control unit (46).

[0036] <Heat source control unit> The heat source control section (46) is connected to each part of the heat source unit (40) via signal lines. In this example, as shown in FIG. 2, the compression element (42), the heat source fan (45), the heat source sensor (60), and the like are connected to the heat source control section (46). The heat source control section (46) also receives signals transmitted from outside the heat source unit (40). The heat source control section (46) then controls each part of the heat source unit (40) based on the detection signal of the heat source sensor (60) and the signal transmitted from outside the heat source unit (40). In this way, the operation of the heat source unit (40) is controlled.

[0037] For example, the heat source control unit (46) includes a processor and a memory electrically connected to the processor for storing programs and information for operating the processor. The processor executes the programs to realize various functions of the heat source control unit (46).

[0038] <Users> The utilization fan (55) is disposed near the utilization heat exchanger (52) and delivers utilization air to the utilization heat exchanger (52). For example, the utilization air is the air inside the refrigerator.

[0039] <Used heat exchanger> The utilization heat exchanger (52) exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing through the utilization heat exchanger (52) and utilization air delivered to the utilization heat exchanger (52). For example, the utilization heat exchanger (52) is a fin-and-tube heat exchanger. A liquid end of the utilization heat exchanger (52) is connected to the liquid connecting pipe (22) through a refrigerant pipe. A gas end of the utilization heat exchanger (52) is connected to the gas connecting pipe (21) through a refrigerant pipe. In this example, the utilization heat exchanger (52) functions as an evaporator.

[0040] <Utilization expansion valve> The utilization expansion valve (53) is provided in a refrigerant pipe between the liquid end of the utilization heat exchanger (52) and the liquid connecting pipe (22). The utilization expansion valve (53) has an adjustable opening. For example, the utilization expansion valve (53) is an electrically operated valve.

[0041] <Used Sensor> The cooling unit (50) is provided with a utilization sensor (70) for detecting various physical quantities in each part of the cooling unit (50). For example, the utilization sensor (70) includes various sensors such as a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. Examples of the physical quantities detected by the utilization sensor (70) include the pressure and temperature of the high-pressure side (high-pressure refrigerant) of the refrigerant circuit (25), the pressure and temperature of the low-pressure side (low-pressure refrigerant) of the refrigerant circuit (25), the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant in the utilization heat exchanger (52), and the temperature of the air drawn into the cooling unit (50). The utilization sensor (70) transmits a detection signal indicative of the detection result to the utilization control unit (56). This controls the operation of the cooling unit (50).

[0042] In this example, the utilization sensor (70) includes an inside temperature sensor (71) and a superheat sensor (72). The inside temperature sensor (71) detects the temperature of the inside air to be cooled by the cooling unit (50). The superheat sensor (72) detects the degree of superheat of the refrigerant at the refrigerant outlet of the utilization heat exchanger (52). For example, the superheat sensor (72) includes an inlet temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the refrigerant at the refrigerant inlet of the utilization heat exchanger (52) and an outlet temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the refrigerant at the refrigerant outlet of the utilization heat exchanger (52). The difference between the temperatures of the refrigerant detected by the inlet temperature sensor and the outlet temperature sensor corresponds to the degree of superheat of the refrigerant at the refrigerant outlet of the utilization heat exchanger (52).

[0043] <Usage Control Unit> The usage control unit (56) is connected to each part of the cooling unit (50) via a signal line. As shown in FIG. 2, the usage control unit (56) is connected to the usage expansion valve (53), the usage fan (55), the usage sensor (70), etc. The usage control unit (56) also receives signals transmitted from outside the cooling unit (50). The usage control unit (56) controls each part of the cooling unit (50) based on the detection signal of the usage sensor (70) and the signal transmitted from outside the cooling unit (50).

[0044] For example, the usage control unit 56 includes a processor and a memory electrically connected to the processor for storing programs and information for operating the processor. The processor executes the programs to realize various functions of the usage control unit 56.

[0045] [Cooling unit structure] 3 illustrates the structure of the cooling unit 50. In this example, the cooling unit 50 includes a showcase 50a. The cooling unit 50 cools the air inside the showcase 50a (internal air) during the cooling operation.

[0046] The showcase (50a) is formed with an internal space (50b) and an air passage (50c). The internal space (50b) is a space with one side (in this example, the front side) open. In this example, the internal space (50b) is provided with a plurality of shelves for displaying the items stored in the internal space (50b).

[0047] The air passage (50c) has an inlet (50d) and an outlet (50e) that open to the interior space (50b). The inlet (50d) and the outlet (50e) are formed in the showcase (50a) along the periphery of the open surface of the interior space (50b). In this example, the inlet (50d) is formed in the lower part of the showcase (50a), and the outlet (50e) is formed in the upper part of the showcase (50a).

[0048] A utility fan (55) and a utility heat exchanger (52) are disposed in the air passage (50c). The utility fan (55) generates an air flow in the air passage (50c) that flows from the air inlet (50d) through the utility fan (55) and the utility heat exchanger (52) to the air outlet (50e). As a result, air drawn into the air passage (50c) from the interior space (50b) through the air inlet (50d) is cooled in the utility heat exchanger (52), which serves as an evaporator, and is then blown out from the air passage (50c) through the air outlet (50e) into the interior space (50b). An air curtain is formed on the open surface of the interior space (50b) by the air flow from the air outlet (50e) to the air inlet (50d).

[0049] The inside temperature sensor (71) and a temperature sensor (81) described later are arranged near the inlet (50d) and detect the temperature of air sucked into the air passage (50c) from the inside space (50b) through the inlet (50d) as the “temperature of the inside air.”

[0050] [Operation of the refrigeration device] Next, with reference to FIG. 1, the operation of the refrigeration system (20) will be described.

[0051] The heat source unit (40) drives the compression element (42) and the heat source fan (45). The heat source control section (46) controls the compression element (42) and the heat source fan (45).

[0052] Each of the plurality of cooling units (50) performs or stops a cooling operation depending on the difference between the temperature of the object to be cooled and the set temperature. The cooling operation is an operation for cooling the interior of the cooling unit (50). In this example, the temperature of the object to be cooled is the temperature of the air inside the cooling unit (50). The set temperature is a predetermined target temperature of the air inside the compartment.

[0053] Specifically, in the cooling unit (50), when the inside temperature detected by the inside temperature sensor (71) exceeds a set temperature, the utilization control section (56) controls the drive of the utilization fan (55) and adjusts the opening of the utilization expansion valve (53) so that the cooling operation is performed. In the cooling unit (50) performing the cooling operation, the utilization control section (56) adjusts the opening of the utilization expansion valve (53) so that the degree of superheat detected by the superheat sensor (72) becomes a preset target degree of superheat. In addition, when the inside temperature detected by the inside temperature sensor (71) does not exceed the set temperature, the utilization control section (56) stops the utilization fan (55) and fully closes the utilization expansion valve (53) so that the cooling operation is stopped.

[0054] [Refrigerant flow during operation of the refrigeration device] In the heat source unit (40), the refrigerant discharged from the compression element (42) dissipates heat in the heat source heat exchanger (43) which is a radiator. The refrigerant flowing out of the heat source heat exchanger (43) flows into the liquid connecting pipe (22). The refrigerant flowing into the liquid connecting pipe (22) flows into one of the cooling units (50) which is performing a cooling operation.

[0055] In the cooling unit (50) performing the cooling operation, the refrigerant flowing into the cooling unit (50) from the liquid connecting pipe (22) is reduced in pressure in the utilization expansion valve (53) and then evaporated in the utilization heat exchanger (52), which is an evaporator. This cools the air inside the storage compartment. The refrigerant flowing out of the utilization heat exchanger (52) flows into the heat source unit (40) through the gas connecting pipe (21).

[0056] In the heat source unit (40), the refrigerant that has flowed into the heat source unit (40) through the gas communication pipe (21) is drawn into the compression element (42) and compressed.

[0057] [Adjustment section] The adjusting section (35) is configured to be able to adjust the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through each of the plurality of cooling units (50). In this example, the adjusting section (35) includes a plurality of adjusting valves (36) corresponding to the plurality of cooling units (50).

[0058] The plurality of regulating valves (36) have the same configuration. The regulating valves (36) are connected between the liquid connecting pipe (22) and the refrigerant inlet (specifically, the liquid end of the utilization circuit (51)) of the cooling unit (50). In this example, the regulating valves (36) are motor-operated valves with adjustable opening. By adjusting the opening of the regulating valves (36), the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the cooling unit (50) can be adjusted, and as a result, the cooling capacity exerted by the cooling unit (50) can be adjusted. Furthermore, by fully closing the regulating valves (36), the flow of the refrigerant through the cooling unit (50) can be stopped, and as a result, the cooling operation of the cooling unit (50) can be forcibly stopped.

[0059] [Control System] The control system (30) controls the refrigeration system (10). In this example, the control system (30) includes an information acquisition unit (31), a storage unit (32), and a control unit (33).

[0060] <Information acquisition department> The information acquiring unit (31) acquires information about the refrigeration system (10). The information acquired by the information acquiring unit (31) is transmitted to the control unit (33). For example, the information acquiring unit (31) includes various sensors such as a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor, a receiving unit that receives information and data, and an operation unit into which a user inputs information and data.

[0061] The information about the refrigeration system (10) includes information about the heat source unit (40) and information about each of the plurality of cooling units (50). The information about the heat source unit (40) includes "information that can be used to derive the capacity that can actually be exerted in the heat source unit (40)." The information about each of the plurality of cooling units (50) includes at least some of "information indicating the priority of each of the plurality of cooling units (50)," "information that can be used to derive the cooling capacity required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50)," and "information that indicates the temperature of the object to be cooled and the set temperature in each of the plurality of cooling units (50)."

[0062] Hereinafter, information indicating the priority of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) will be referred to as "priority information." Information that can be used to derive the cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50) will be referred to as "first information." Information that can be used to derive the capacity that can actually be exerted in the heat source unit (40) will be referred to as "second information." Information that indicates the temperature of the object to be cooled and the set temperature for each of the plurality of cooling units (50) will be referred to as "third information."

[0063] In this example, the information acquisition section (31) includes a plurality of temperature sensors (81) corresponding to the plurality of cooling units (50). The plurality of temperature sensors (81) have the same configuration. The temperature sensors (81) detect the temperature inside the cooling units (50). The plurality of temperature sensors (81) included in the information acquisition section (31) detect the “temperature of the object to be cooled in each of the plurality of cooling units (50),” which is part of the third information. The temperature sensors (81) transmit detection signals indicating the detection results to the control section (33).

[0064] <Storage part> The storage unit (32) stores various information and data related to the refrigeration system (10). Specifically, the storage unit (32) stores information related to the heat source unit (40), information related to each of the cooling units (50), information used for control in the refrigeration system (10), data related to the operating status of the refrigeration device (20), and the like.

[0065] In this example, the "information on each of the plurality of cooling units (50)" stored in the memory (32) includes the priority information, the first information, and the remaining part of the third information, namely, "the set temperature of each of the plurality of cooling units (50)." The "information on the heat source unit (40)" stored in the memory (32) includes the second information.

[0066] The information and data stored in the memory unit (32) may be information and data input by a user, may be information and data automatically collected by the control unit (33), or may be new information and data generated based on the information and data automatically collected by the control unit (33) (for example, information and data obtained by machine learning).

[0067] <Control Unit> The control unit (33) controls the refrigeration device (20). In this example, the control unit (33) is connected to each part of the refrigeration system (10) via signal lines. As shown in FIG. 2 , the control unit (33) is connected to an information acquisition unit (31) (in this example, a plurality of temperature sensors (35)), a storage unit (32), a heat source control unit (46), an adjustment unit (35) (in this example, a plurality of adjustment valves (36)), and the like. The control unit (33) also receives a signal (not shown) transmitted from outside the refrigeration system (10). The control unit (33) controls the refrigeration system (10) including the refrigeration device (20) based on the information obtained by each part of the refrigeration system (10) and the signal transmitted from outside the refrigeration system (10).

[0068] For example, the control unit 33 includes a processor and a memory electrically connected to the processor for storing programs and information for operating the processor. The processor executes the programs to realize various functions of the control unit 33.

[0069] [Processing by the control unit] The control unit (33) outputs information indicating the capacity required for the heat source unit (40) based on first information that can be used to derive the cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50) and third information that indicates the temperature of the object to be cooled and the set temperature for each of the plurality of cooling units (50). Hereinafter, the information indicating the capacity required for the heat source unit (40) will be referred to as “fourth information.”

[0070] Furthermore, the control section (33) outputs the fourth information to the heat source control section (46) of the heat source unit (40). The heat source control section (46) controls the operation of the heat source unit (40) by controlling each section of the heat source unit (40) (specifically, the compression element (42)) based on the “capacity required of the heat source unit (40)” indicated in the fourth information. In this example, the higher the capacity required of the heat source unit (40), the higher the rotation speed of the compressor constituting the compression element (42). In this way, the heat source unit (40) operates based on the fourth information (information indicating the capacity required of the heat source unit (40)).

[0071] In this example, the first information includes information on a "representative cooling capacity" that is a representative value of the cooling capacity of each of the plurality of cooling units (50). The capacity required of the heat source unit (40) is a capacity corresponding to the sum of the representative cooling capacities of the cooling units (50) that are performing a cooling operation among the plurality of cooling units (50). Then, the control unit (33) outputs, based on the first information and the third information, fourth information indicating the "capacity required of the heat source unit (40)" that is corresponding to the sum of the representative cooling capacities of the cooling units (50) that are performing a cooling operation among the plurality of cooling units (50).

[0072] Hereinafter, the process related to the representative cooling capacity (the process of outputting the fourth information) will be referred to as “first heat source process.” The representative cooling capacity will be described in detail later.

[0073] In this example, the first information includes information that can be used to derive a "predicted cooling capacity" that is a predicted value of the cooling capacity required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50). The capacity required in the heat source unit (40) is a capacity corresponding to the sum of the predicted cooling capacities of the plurality of cooling units (50). Then, the control unit (33) outputs, based on the first information and the third information, fourth information that indicates the "capacity required in the heat source unit (40)" corresponding to the sum of the predicted cooling capacities of the plurality of cooling units (50).

[0074] Hereinafter, the process related to the predicted cooling capacity (the process of outputting the fourth information) will be referred to as the “second heat source process.” The predicted cooling capacity will be described in detail later. For example, the control unit (33) selectively performs the first heat source process and the second heat source process in response to an instruction from outside the refrigeration system (10).

[0075] Furthermore, the control unit (33) outputs control information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50), based on priority information indicating the priority of each of the plurality of cooling units (50), first information usable for deriving the cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50), and second information usable for deriving the capacity that can actually be exerted by the heat source unit (40). Note that the control information is information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) so that a cooling unit (50) with a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) can perform the cooling operation preferentially over a cooling unit (50) with a lower priority.

[0076] Furthermore, the control unit (33) outputs the control information to the adjustment unit (35). The adjustment unit (35) operates based on the control information. Specifically, the control unit (33) controls the plurality of adjustment valves (36) included in the adjustment unit (35) by outputting an opening adjustment signal corresponding to the control information to the plurality of adjustment valves (36). The control of the adjustment valves (36) will be described in detail later.

[0077] In this example, the control unit (33) outputs control information when the capacity corresponding to the total cooling capacity required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is greater than the capacity that can actually be exerted in the heat source unit (40).

[0078] In this example, the control information is information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) so that a cooling unit (50) having a lower priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) stops its cooling operation preferentially over a cooling unit (50) having a higher priority. The control information is also information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) so that a cooling unit (50) having a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) can ensure cooling capacity preferentially over a cooling unit (50) having a lower priority.

[0079] In this example, the first information also includes information on a “representative cooling capacity” that is a representative value of the cooling capacity of each of the plurality of cooling units (50). The total cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is the total of the representative cooling capacities of each of the plurality of cooling units (50). The control unit (33) outputs the control information when the capacity corresponding to the total of the representative cooling capacities of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is greater than the capacity that can actually be exerted by the heat source unit (40).

[0080] Hereinafter, the process related to the representative cooling capacity (the process of outputting control information) will be referred to as the "first use process."

[0081] In this example, the first information includes information that can be used to derive a "predicted cooling capacity," which is a predicted value of the cooling capacity required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50). The total cooling capacity required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is the total of the predicted cooling capacities of the plurality of cooling units (50). The control unit (33) outputs the control information when the capacity corresponding to the total of the predicted cooling capacities of the plurality of cooling units (50) is greater than the capacity that can actually be exerted in the heat source unit (40).

[0082] Hereinafter, the process related to the predicted cooling capacity (the process of outputting control information) will be referred to as a “second usage process.” For example, the control unit (33) selectively performs the first usage process or the second usage process in response to an instruction from outside the refrigeration system (10).

[0083] [Priority] Next, the priority of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) will be described with reference to Fig. 4. The priority of each cooling unit (50) is set according to the degree of need for cooling in that cooling unit (50). The higher the degree of need for cooling in that cooling unit (50), the higher the priority set for that cooling unit (50).

[0084] In this example, the priority of each of the plurality of cooling units 50 is set according to the type of contents stored in the showcase 50a of the cooling unit 50. Specifically, for each type of contents expected to be stored in the showcase 50a of the cooling unit 50, a priority is set in advance for the cooling unit 50 storing the contents of that type. The higher the need for cooling of the contents, the higher the priority is set for the cooling unit 50 storing the contents.

[0085] Examples of types of stored items include frozen foods, meat, fresh fish, fruits and vegetables, soft drinks, etc. For example, the degree of need for cooling increases in the order of frozen foods, meat (or fresh fish), fruits and vegetables, and soft drinks.

[0086] In the example of FIG. 4, the priority level decreases from "1" to "4." A priority level of "1" is set for the cooling unit (50) storing "frozen foods." A priority level of "2" is set for the cooling unit (50) storing "fresh meat." A priority level of "3" is set for the cooling unit (50) storing "fruit and vegetables." A priority level of "4" is set for the cooling unit (50) storing "soft drinks."

[0087] In this example, the priorities include a first priority and a second priority lower than the first priority. The first priority is a priority set for a cooling unit (50) among the plurality of cooling units (50) whose cooling operation is prohibited from being forcibly stopped. The second priority is a priority set for a cooling unit (50) among the plurality of cooling units (50) whose cooling operation is permitted to be forcibly stopped.

[0088] In the example of Fig. 4, the priority set for the cooling unit (50) storing "frozen foods" (priority indicated by "1") and the priority set for the cooling unit (50) storing "fresh meat" (priority indicated by "2") are the first priorities. The cooling unit (50) storing "frozen foods" and the cooling unit (50) storing "fresh meat" are cooling units (50) whose cooling operation is prohibited from being forcibly stopped.

[0089] 4, the priority set for the cooling unit (50) storing "fruits and vegetables" (priority indicated as "3") and the priority set for the cooling unit (50) storing "soft drinks" (priority indicated as "4") are the second priorities. The cooling unit (50) storing "fruits and vegetables" and the cooling unit (50) storing "soft drinks" are cooling units (50) that are permitted to forcibly stop the cooling operation.

[0090] [Priority setting] In this example, when the type of contents to be stored in the cooling unit (50) is designated, the control unit (33) automatically sets the priority of the cooling unit (50) to the “priority according to the type of the designated contents” in response to the designation. Then, the control unit (33) registers the setting result of the priority of the cooling unit (50) (which priority is set for which cooling unit (50)) in the priority information stored in the memory unit (32).

[0091] For example, the storage unit (32) stores an information table (correspondence information) showing the correspondence between the "type of contents stored in the cooling unit (50)" and the "priority set for the cooling unit (50)." When a user inputs an operation (e.g., a button operation) to an operation unit (not shown) to specify the type of contents stored in the cooling unit (50), the control unit (33) detects the priority corresponding to the type of contents specified by the operation from the information table stored in the storage unit (32). Then, the control unit (33) sets the priority of the cooling unit (50) for which the type of contents is specified by the operation to the "priority detected from the information table."

[0092] [Capacity of heat source unit] Next, the capacity of the heat source unit (40) will be described. When the heat source unit (40) is not abnormal and is operating normally, the capacity that the heat source unit (40) can actually exert is the predetermined maximum capacity (e.g., rated capacity) of the heat source unit (40). However, when an abnormality occurs in the heat source unit (40), the capacity that the heat source unit (40) can actually exert becomes smaller than the predetermined maximum capacity of the heat source unit (40).

[0093] Examples of the above-mentioned abnormality of the heat source unit (40) (a state in which the heat source unit (40) is unable to actually exert its predetermined maximum capacity) include an abnormality caused by a factor external to the heat source unit (40), such as an abnormality in the operating conditions of the refrigeration device (20), and an abnormality caused by a factor internal to the heat source unit (40), such as a failure of a component of the heat source unit (40).

[0094] An example of an abnormality caused by a factor external to the heat source unit (40) is a state in which the pressure of the high-pressure side (high-pressure refrigerant) of the refrigerant circuit (25) exceeds a predetermined pressure, thereby limiting the operation of the compression element (42) of the heat source unit (40) (specifically, the number of revolutions of the compressor).An example of an abnormality caused by a factor internal to the heat source unit (40) is a state in which some of the compressors constituting the compression element (42) become abnormal (for example, fail).

[0095] Furthermore, the heat source control unit (46) derives the capacity that the heat source unit (40) can actually exert based on the operating state of the heat source unit (40), such as the presence or absence of an abnormality in the heat source unit (40). Then, the heat source control unit (46) transmits information indicating the capacity that the heat source unit (40) can actually exert to the control unit (33). The control unit (33) stores the "information indicating the capacity that the heat source unit (40) can actually exert" transmitted from the heat source control unit (46) in the storage unit (32).

[0096] Alternatively, the heat source control section (46) transmits information indicating the operating state of the heat source unit (40) to the control section (33). The control section (33) derives the capacity that the heat source unit (40) can actually exert, based on the “information indicating the operating state of the heat source unit (40)” transmitted from the heat source control section (46). Then, the control section (33) stores the information indicating the capacity that the heat source unit (40) can actually exert in the storage section (32).

[0097] The above-mentioned "information indicating the capacity that the heat source unit (40) can actually exert" and "information indicating the operating state of the heat source unit (40)" are examples of information that can be used to derive the capacity that the heat source unit (40) can actually exert.

[0098] [Cooling capacity of cooling unit] Next, a description will be given of the cooling capacity required for the cooling unit (50). Hereinafter, the cooling capacity required for the cooling unit (50) will be referred to as the "cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50)."

[0099] <1st cooling capacity> The cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50) includes “a cooling capacity required to cool an object to be cooled in the cooling unit (50).” Hereinafter, the cooling capacity required to cool an object to be cooled in the cooling unit (50) will be referred to as “a first cooling capacity.”

[0100] The first cooling capacity is a capacity corresponding to the product of the "heat capacity of the cooling unit (50)" and the "difference between the temperature of the object to be cooled in the cooling unit (50) and the set temperature." Specifically, the larger this product is, the larger the first cooling capacity is. The heat capacity of the cooling unit (50) is the amount of heat required to change the temperature of the object to be cooled by a unit temperature (1°C). To be precise, the difference between the temperature of the object to be cooled and the set temperature is the temperature difference obtained by subtracting the set temperature from the temperature of the object to be cooled.

[0101] For example, if the cooling unit (50) is a "cooling unit (50) that cools the air in the showcase (50a)," the heat capacity of the cooling unit (50) varies depending on the product of the "amount of items stored in the showcase (50a)" and the "specific heat of the items stored in the showcase (50a)." Specifically, the larger this product, the larger the heat capacity of the cooling unit (50). The "amount of items stored in the showcase (50a)" can be expressed as the product of the "internal cooling volume of the showcase (50a) (specifically, the volume of the internal space (50b))" and the "accommodation rate of the items stored in the showcase (50a) (specifically, the ratio of the volume of the items to the volume of the internal space (50b))."

[0102] Considering the above, the first cooling capacity (Q1) can be expressed by the following formula 1. In formula 1, "V" is the cooling internal volume of the showcase (50a). "r1" is the storage rate of the items stored in the showcase (50a). "c" is the specific heat of the items stored in the showcase (50a). "T1" is the temperature inside the showcase (50a) (the temperature of the object to be cooled in the cooling unit (50)). "T0" is the set temperature.

[0103]

number

[0104] The heat capacity of the cooling unit (50) is an example of static information (information that does not change depending on the operating status of the cooling unit (50)) that can be used to derive the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50). Specifically, the specific heat of the items stored in the showcase (50a), the cooling internal volume of the showcase (50a), the amount of items stored in the showcase (50a), and the storage rate of the items stored in the showcase (50a) are examples of static information that can be used to derive the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50).

[0105] Furthermore, the "difference between the temperature of the object to be cooled in the cooling unit (50) and the set temperature" is information that can be derived from the second information indicating the temperature of the object to be cooled in the cooling unit (50) and the set temperature, and is dynamic information (information that changes depending on the operating conditions of the cooling unit (50)) that can be used to derive the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50).

[0106] The specific heat (c) of the items contained in the showcase (50a) can be estimated from the type of the items. Examples of the types of items include frozen foods, meat, fresh fish, fruits and vegetables, and soft drinks. The type of items contained in the showcase (50a) can be estimated from the temperature set in the showcase (50a). For example, when the temperature set in the showcase (50a) is "0°C," it can be estimated that the type of items contained in the showcase (50a) is "meat" or "fresh fish," and the specific heat (c) of the items can be estimated to be the specific heat corresponding to "meat" or "fresh fish."

[0107] The type of items stored in the showcase (50a) and the set temperature of the showcase (50a) are examples of static information (information that does not change depending on the operating status of the cooling unit (50)) that can be used to derive the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50).

[0108] For example, the desired information may be derived from the above information using an information table showing the correspondence between the above information (type of contents, set temperature, etc.) and the desired information to be derived (specific heat (c), heat capacity, cooling capacity, etc.).

[0109] <Second cooling capacity> The cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50) may include, in addition to the first cooling capacity, a “cooling capacity required for the cooling unit (50) to absorb heat.” Hereinafter, the cooling capacity required for the cooling unit (50) to absorb heat will be referred to as a “second cooling capacity.”

[0110] The second cooling capacity is a capacity that corresponds to the product of the "internal cooling volume of the cooling unit (50)," the "heat absorption rate of the cooling unit (50)," and the "difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the object to be cooled in the cooling unit (50)." Specifically, the larger this product, the larger the second cooling capacity. The heat absorption rate of the cooling unit (50) depends on the structure of the cooling unit (50) (ease of escape of cold air). The easier it is for cold air to escape from the cooling unit (50), the larger the heat absorption rate of the cooling unit (50). The difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the object to be cooled is, to be precise, the temperature difference obtained by subtracting the temperature of the object to be cooled from the ambient temperature.

[0111] For example, when the cooling unit (50) is a "cooling unit (50) that cools the air in the showcase (50a)," the heat absorption rate of the cooling unit (50) (how easily the cool air escapes) depends on the type of the showcase (50a).

[0112] If the showcase (50a) is a "sealed type like a refrigerator," the heat absorption rate of the cooling unit (50) is relatively small. If the showcase (50a) is a "glass-door type," the heat absorption rate of the cooling unit (50) is greater than that of the "sealed type." If the showcase (50a) is an "open type without a door," the heat absorption rate of the cooling unit (50) is relatively greater.

[0113] Furthermore, when the cooling unit (50) is a "cooling unit (50) that cools the air in the showcase (50a)," the ambient temperature of the cooling unit (50) is the "temperature of the air in the facility in which the showcase (50a) is installed," and the temperature of the object to be cooled by the cooling unit (50) is the "temperature inside the showcase (50a)."

[0114] In consideration of the above, the second cooling capacity (Q2) is expressed by the following formula 2. The cooling capacity (Q) of the cooling unit (50) including the first cooling capacity (Q1) and the second cooling capacity (Q2) is expressed by the following formula 3. In formulas 2 and 3, "r2" is the heat absorption rate of the cooling unit (50). "T2" is the air temperature in the facility where the showcase (50a) is installed (the ambient temperature of the cooling unit (50)).

[0115]

number

[0116] The cooling internal volume of the cooling unit (50) and the heat absorption rate of the cooling unit (50) are examples of static information (information that does not change depending on the operating conditions of the cooling unit (50)) that can be used to derive the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50). The difference between the ambient temperature of the cooling unit (50) and the temperature of the object to be cooled is an example of dynamic information (information that changes depending on the operating conditions of the cooling unit (50)) that can be used to derive the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50).

[0117] For example, the desired information may be derived from the above information using an information table that indicates the correspondence between the above information (such as the type of showcase (50a)) and the desired information to be derived (such as the heat absorption rate and the cooling capacity).

[0118] [Representative cooling capacity] Next, the representative cooling capacity will be described. The representative cooling capacity is a representative value of the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50). The representative cooling capacity is a static cooling capacity that does not change depending on the operating conditions of the cooling unit (50) (specifically, the difference between the temperature of the object to be cooled and the set temperature).

[0119] The representative cooling capacity is set to a cooling capacity that is exerted by the cooling unit (50) when the operating condition of the cooling unit (50) is a predetermined condition. For example, the representative cooling capacity is set to a maximum cooling capacity (rated cooling capacity) that the cooling unit (50) can exert when the operating condition of the cooling unit (50) is a predetermined condition.

[0120] For example, the representative cooling capacity may be set to a capacity corresponding to a "first representative cooling capacity" that is a representative value of the first cooling capacity (cooling capacity required to cool the object to be cooled) of the cooling unit (50). The first representative cooling capacity is a capacity corresponding to a "representative heat capacity" that is a representative value of the heat capacity of the cooling unit (50). Specifically, the first representative cooling capacity may be set to a capacity corresponding to the product of the "representative heat capacity of the cooling unit (50)" and the "representative value (e.g., an expected maximum value) of the difference between the temperature of the object to be cooled in the cooling unit (50) and the set temperature."

[0121] The representative heat capacity may be set to a heat capacity corresponding to the product of a "representative value (e.g., an expected maximum value) of the amount of items contained in the showcase (50a)" and a "representative value of the specific heat (c) of the items contained in the showcase (50a)." The first representative cooling capacity and the representative heat capacity are information that changes depending on the amount and specific heat of the items contained in the showcase (50a).

[0122] Furthermore, the representative value of the specific heat (c) of the items contained in the showcase (50a) may be set to the specific heat of the items that are predetermined to be contained in the showcase (50a). Furthermore, the representative value of the amount of items contained in the showcase (50a) may be set to a value corresponding to the product of the "refrigerated internal volume (V) of the showcase (50a)" and the "representative value (e.g., an expected maximum value) of the accommodation rate (r1) of the items contained in the showcase (50a)."

[0123] Furthermore, the representative cooling capacity may be set to a capacity corresponding to the "first representative cooling capacity" and a "second representative cooling capacity" that is a representative value of the second cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50) (cooling capacity required for the cooling unit (50) to absorb heat). Specifically, the second representative cooling capacity may be set to a capacity corresponding to the product of the "internal cooling volume (V) of the showcase (50a)," the "heat absorption rate of the showcase (50a)," and the "representative value (e.g., the expected maximum value) of the difference between the ambient temperature in the cooling unit (50) and the temperature of the object to be cooled." The second representative cooling capacity is information that changes depending on the structure of the showcase (50a).

[0124] [First heat source treatment] Next, the first heat source process performed by the control unit (33) will be described with reference to Fig. 5. During operation of the refrigeration system (10), the control unit (33) repeatedly performs the process shown in Fig. 5.

[0125] <Step (S11)> The control unit (33) acquires first information (information that can be used to derive the cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50)). In this example, the control unit (33) acquires the first information stored in the storage unit (32). The first information in the first heat source process includes information on the representative cooling capacity of each of the plurality of cooling units (50). Specifically, the first information includes the "representative cooling capacity (e.g., rated cooling capacity)" of each of the plurality of cooling units (50).

[0126] <Step (S12)> The control unit (33) acquires third information (information indicating the temperature of the object to be cooled and the set temperature in each of the plurality of cooling units (50)). In this example, the control unit (33) acquires "the temperature of the object to be cooled in each of the plurality of cooling units (50) (the temperature inside the showcase (50a))," which is part of the third information obtained by the plurality of temperature sensors (81), and "the set temperature of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) (the target value of the temperature inside the cabinet)," which is the remaining part of the second information stored in the memory unit (32).

[0127] <Step (S13)> The control unit (33) determines, based on the third information acquired in step (S12), whether or not there is a "cooling unit (50) performing a cooling operation" among the plurality of cooling units (50). For example, the control unit (33) determines whether or not there is a cooling unit (50) whose "temperature of the object to be cooled (temperature inside the showcase (50a))" acquired in step (S12) exceeds the "set temperature (target value of the inside temperature)." If there is a cooling unit (50) performing a cooling operation, the process of step (S14) is performed; otherwise, the process of step (S16) is performed.

[0128] <Step (S14)> When a cooling unit (50) currently performing a cooling operation is present, the control unit (33) derives the capacity required for the heat source unit (40) based on the representative cooling capacity of each of the "cooling units (50) currently performing a cooling operation" among the plurality of cooling units (50).

[0129] In this example, the control unit (33) derives the sum of the representative cooling capacities of the cooling units (50) currently performing the cooling operation from the “representative cooling capacities of each of the plurality of cooling units (50)” acquired in step (S11), and determines the sum of the derived representative cooling capacities as the “capacity required in the heat source unit (40).”

[0130] <Step (S15)> Next, the control unit (33) outputs information (fourth information) indicating the “capacity required of the heat source unit (40)” derived in step (S14) to the heat source unit (40). As a result, the heat source unit (40) operates to achieve the “capacity required of the heat source unit (40)” derived in step (S14). Specifically, the heat source control unit (46) controls each part of the heat source unit (40) (specifically, the compression element (42)) to achieve the “capacity required of the heat source unit (40)” indicated in the fourth information.

[0131] <Step (S16)> On the other hand, if there is a cooling unit (50) performing a cooling operation in step (S13), the control unit (33) outputs information indicating that the heat source unit (40) is inactive (e.g., an information signal instructing the heat source unit (40) to be inactive) to the heat source unit (40). As a result, the heat source unit (40) is put into an inactive state. Specifically, in response to the "information indicating that the heat source unit (40) is inactive" output from the control unit (33), the heat source control unit (46) stops the components of the heat source unit (40) (specifically, the compression element (42) and the heat source fan (45)).

[0132] [First use process] Next, the first use process performed by the control unit (33) will be described with reference to Fig. 6. During operation of the refrigeration system (10), the control unit (33) repeatedly performs the process shown in Fig. 6.

[0133] <Step (S21)> The control unit (33) acquires first information (information that can be used to derive the cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50)). In this example, the control unit (33) acquires the first information stored in the storage unit (32). The first information in the first use process includes information on the representative cooling capacity of each of the plurality of cooling units (50). Specifically, the first information includes the "representative cooling capacity (e.g., rated cooling capacity)" of each of the plurality of cooling units (50).

[0134] <Step (S22)> The control unit (33) acquires second information (information that can be used to derive the capacity that can actually be exerted in the heat source unit (40)). In this example, the control unit (33) acquires the second information stored in the storage unit (32).

[0135] <Step (S23)> The control unit (33) derives the sum of the representative cooling capacities of the cooling units (50) based on the "respective representative cooling capacities of the cooling units (50)" acquired in step (S21).

[0136] <Step (S24)> Furthermore, the control section (33) derives the capacity that can actually be exerted by the heat source unit (40) based on the second information acquired in step (S22).

[0137] <Step (S25)> Next, the control unit (33) determines whether or not the actual capacity (capacity that can actually be exerted) of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient based on the "total of the representative cooling capacities of the plurality of cooling units (50)" derived in step (S23) and the "capacity that can actually be exerted by the heat source unit (40)" derived in step (S24). If the actual capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient, the process of step (S26) is performed; otherwise, the process ends.

[0138] For example, the control unit (33) determines that the actual capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient when the “total of the representative cooling capacities of each of the plurality of cooling units (50)” exceeds the “capacity that can actually be exerted in the heat source unit (40).”

[0139] <Step (S26)> The control unit (33) performs cooling capacity control. In the cooling capacity control, the control unit (33) outputs control information. In this example, the control information is information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) so that, among the plurality of cooling units (50), a cooling unit (50) with a lower priority stops its cooling operation preferentially over a cooling unit (50) with a higher priority, and so that the cooling unit (50) with a higher priority can secure cooling capacity preferentially over a cooling unit (50) with a lower priority.

[0140] Specifically, the control information includes stop information indicating a cooling unit (50) among the plurality of cooling units (50) that is to stop the cooling operation, and securing rate information indicating the securing rate of the cooling capacity in a cooling unit (50) among the plurality of cooling units (50) that is to perform the cooling operation.

[0141] The adjustment section (35) operates based on control information output from the control section (33), thereby controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) such that, among the plurality of cooling units (50), a cooling unit (50) having a lower priority stops its cooling operation preferentially over a cooling unit (50) having a higher priority, and such that the cooling unit (50) having a higher priority can secure cooling capacity preferentially over a cooling unit (50) having a lower priority.

[0142] Specifically, the control unit (33) outputs a control signal (a control signal for fully closing the regulating valve (36)) in response to the stop information to the regulating valve (36) corresponding to the cooling unit (50) indicated in the stop information (the cooling unit (50) whose cooling operation is to be stopped). As a result, the refrigerant does not flow into the cooling unit (50) indicated in the stop information, and the cooling operation of the cooling unit (50) is stopped.

[0143] Furthermore, the control unit (33) outputs a control signal (a control signal for adjusting the opening degree of the adjustment valve (36)) corresponding to the cooling unit (50) (the cooling unit (50) performing the cooling operation) indicated in the availability rate information to the adjustment valve (36) corresponding to the cooling unit (50). Specifically, the control unit (33) outputs a control signal to the adjustment valve (36) corresponding to the cooling unit (50) so that the opening degree of the adjustment valve (36) corresponding to the cooling unit (50) increases as the “guaranteed rate of cooling capacity in the cooling unit (50)” indicated in the availability rate information increases. This adjusts the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the cooling unit (50) indicated in the availability rate information, thereby adjusting the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50). For example, when the guaranteed rate of cooling capacity in the cooling unit (50) is “100%, the adjustment valve (36) corresponding to the cooling unit (50) is fully open.

[0144] [Cooling capacity control] Next, the cooling capacity control (the process of step (S26) shown in FIG. 6) by the control unit (33) will be described with reference to FIG.

[0145] <Step (S31)> The control unit (33) determines whether or not there is a “cooling unit (50) for which the cooling operation is permitted to be forcibly stopped” among the cooling units (50) performing the cooling operation among the plurality of cooling units (50). If there is a cooling unit (50) for which the cooling operation is permitted to be stopped, the process of step (S32) is performed, and if not, the process of step (S35) is performed.

[0146] In this example, the control unit (33) detects the priority of the cooling unit (50) performing the cooling operation from the priority information stored in the storage unit (32). Then, when a "cooling unit (50) set with the second priority" is present among the cooling units (50) performing the cooling operation, the control unit (33) determines that there is a cooling unit (50) for which the cooling operation is permitted to be stopped.

[0147] <Step (S32)> The control unit (33) determines one of the cooling units (50) that are performing the cooling operation and that are permitted to forcibly stop the cooling operation as the “cooling unit (50) to be stopped.” In the case of the priority shown in FIG. 4, the control unit (33) determines, for example, the cooling unit (No. 4) that stores “soft drinks” as the “cooling unit (50) to be stopped.”

[0148] <Step (S33)> Next, the control unit (33) determines whether or not the insufficient capacity of the heat source unit (40) will be resolved by stopping the cooling operation of the cooling unit (50) to be stopped. If the insufficient capacity of the heat source unit (40) will be resolved, the process proceeds to step (S34); otherwise, the process of step (S31) is performed.

[0149] <Step (S34)> Next, the control unit (33) outputs, to the adjustment unit (35), control information including stop information for stopping the cooling unit (50) determined in step (S32) as the “cooling unit (50) to be stopped.”

[0150] <Step (S35)> On the other hand, when there is no "cooling unit (50) permitted to forcibly stop the cooling operation" among the cooling units (50) performing the cooling operation, the control unit (33) derives the "guaranteed cooling capacity rate" for each of the non-stoppable cooling units (50) so that the "capacity that the heat source unit (40) can actually exert" is distributed to each of the non-stoppable cooling units (50) in a ratio according to the priority set for the non-stoppable cooling units (50). Note that the higher the priority of a cooling unit (50), the higher the guaranteed cooling capacity rate for that cooling unit (50) and the higher the capacity of the heat source unit (40) allocated to that cooling unit (50).

[0151] <Step (S36)> Next, the control unit (33) outputs to the adjustment unit (35) control information including stop information for stopping the cooling units (50) determined in step (S32) as “cooling units (50) to be stopped” and guarantee rate information indicating “guaranteed rate of cooling capacity in each of the cooling units (50) that cannot be stopped” derived in step (S35).

[0152] 4, the control information includes, for example, stop information indicating that the cooling unit (No. 3) storing "fruit and vegetables" and the cooling unit (No. 4) storing "soft drinks" are to be stopped, and availability rate information indicating the availability rate of the cooling capacity of each of the cooling unit (No. 1) storing "frozen foods" and the cooling unit (No. 2) storing "fresh meat." The availability rate information includes, for example, information indicating that the availability rate of the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (No. 1) storing "frozen foods" is "100%," and information indicating that the availability rate of the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (No. 2) storing "fresh meat."

[0153] [Predicted cooling capacity] Next, the predicted cooling capacity will be described. The predicted cooling capacity is a predicted value of the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50). The predicted cooling capacity is a dynamic cooling capacity that changes depending on the operating conditions of the cooling unit (50) (specifically, the difference between the temperature of the object to be cooled and the set temperature).

[0154] For example, the predicted cooling capacity may be set to a capacity according to a "first predicted cooling capacity" that is a predicted value of the first cooling capacity.

[0155] The first predicted cooling capacity is a capacity corresponding to the product of a “representative heat capacity” that is a representative value of the heat capacity of the cooling unit (50) and the “difference between the temperature of the object to be cooled in the cooling unit (50) and the set temperature (actual temperature difference).” For example, the first predicted cooling capacity may be set to a first cooling capacity (Q1) obtained by substituting the “actual temperature difference (T1-T0)” into Equation 1, in which the “cooling internal volume (V),” “accommodation rate (r1),” and “specific heat (c)” corresponding to the representative heat capacity of the cooling unit (50) have already been substituted.

[0156] Alternatively, the first predicted cooling capacity may be a capacity corresponding to the product of the “predicted heat capacity,” which is a predicted value of the heat capacity of the cooling unit (50), and the “difference between the temperature of the object to be cooled in the cooling unit (50) and the set temperature (actual temperature difference).”

[0157] The predicted heat capacity may be set to a heat capacity corresponding to the product of the "actual value of the amount of items contained in the showcase (50a)" and the "representative value (e.g., expected maximum value) or actual value of the specific heat (c) of the items contained in the showcase (50a)." The predicted heat capacity may also be set to a heat capacity corresponding to the product of the "representative value (e.g., expected maximum value) or actual value of the amount of items contained in the showcase (50a)" and the "actual value of the specific heat (c) of the items contained in the showcase (50a)." The first predicted cooling capacity is a capacity corresponding to at least one of the amount and specific heat of the items contained in the showcase (50a).

[0158] For example, the first predicted cooling capacity may be set to the first cooling capacity (Q1) obtained by substituting the “actual capacity ratio (r1)”, “actual specific heat (c)”, and “actual temperature difference (T1-T0)” into Equation 1, in which the “cooling internal volume (V)” corresponding to the structure of the cooling unit (50) has already been substituted.

[0159] The predicted cooling capacity may be set to a capacity corresponding to the "first predicted cooling capacity" and a "second predicted cooling capacity" that is a predicted value of the second cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50) (cooling capacity required for the cooling unit (50) to absorb heat). Specifically, the second predicted cooling capacity may be set to a capacity corresponding to the product of the "internal cooling volume (V) of the showcase (50a)," the "heat absorption rate of the showcase (50a)," and the "difference between the ambient temperature in the cooling unit (50) and the temperature of the object to be cooled (actual temperature difference)." For example, the second predicted cooling capacity may be set to a second cooling capacity (Q2) obtained by substituting the "actual temperature difference (T2 - T1)" into Equation 2, in which the "internal cooling volume (V)" and the "heat absorption rate (r2)" corresponding to the structure of the showcase (50a) have already been substituted.

[0160] [Second heat source treatment] Next, the second heat source process performed by the control unit (33) will be described with reference to Fig. 8. During operation of the refrigeration system (10), the control unit (33) repeatedly performs the process shown in Fig. 8. In the second heat source process, the following steps (S41) and (S44, S45) are performed instead of steps (S11) and (S14) in the first heat source process. Note that the remaining steps (S42, S43, S46, S47) of the second heat source process are similar to the steps (S12, S13, S15, S16) of the first heat source process, respectively, and therefore will not be described.

[0161] <Step (S41)> The control unit (33) acquires first information (information that can be used to derive the cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50)). In this example, the control unit (33) acquires the first information stored in the storage unit (32). The first information in the second heat source process includes information that can be used to derive the predicted cooling capacity of each of the plurality of cooling units (50). For example, the first information includes the “representative heat capacity” of each of the plurality of cooling units (50). Next, the process of step (S42) is performed.

[0162] <Step (S44)> If there is a cooling unit (50) performing a cooling operation in step (S43), the control unit (33) derives the predicted cooling capacity of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) based on the first information acquired in step (S41) and the third information acquired in step (S42).

[0163] For example, for each of the plurality of cooling units (50), the control unit (33) determines the predicted cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50) as the product of the “representative heat capacity” of the cooling unit (50) and the “difference between the temperature of the object to be cooled and the set temperature (actual temperature difference).”

[0164] <Step (S45)> Next, the control unit (33) derives the capacity required for the heat source unit (40) based on the “predicted cooling capacity of each of the plurality of cooling units (50)” derived in step (S44). Next, the process of step (S46) is performed.

[0165] For example, the control unit (33) derives the sum of the “predicted cooling capacities of the plurality of cooling units (50)” derived in step (S44), and determines the sum of the predicted cooling capacities as the “capacity required in the heat source unit (40).”

[0166] [Second Use Processing] Next, the second usage process performed by the control unit (33) will be described with reference to Fig. 9. During operation of the refrigeration system (10), the control unit (33) repeatedly performs the process shown in Fig. 9. In the second usage process, the following steps (S51), (S53), and (S55) are performed instead of steps (S21), (S23), and (S25) in the first usage process. Note that the remaining steps (S52, S54, S56) of the second usage process are similar to steps (S22, S24, S26) of the first usage process, respectively, and therefore will not be described.

[0167] <Step (S51)> The control unit (33) acquires first information (information that can be used to derive the cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50)) and third information (information that indicates the temperature of the object to be cooled and the set temperature for each of the plurality of cooling units (50)). Note that the first information in the second usage process includes information that can be used to derive the predicted cooling capacity for each of the plurality of cooling units (50). For example, the first information includes the “representative heat capacity” of each of the plurality of cooling units (50). Next, the process of step (S52) is performed.

[0168] In this example, the control unit (33) acquires the first information stored in the memory unit (32). The control unit (33) also acquires “the temperature of the object to be cooled in each of the plurality of cooling units (50) (the temperature inside the showcase (50a)),” which is a part of the third information obtained by the plurality of temperature sensors (81), and “the set temperature of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) (the target value of the temperature inside the cabinet),” which is the remaining part of the third information stored in the memory unit (32).

[0169] <Step (S53)> The control unit (33) derives the predicted cooling capacity of each of the cooling units (50) based on the first information acquired in step (S51) and the third information acquired in step (S51). Next, the process of step (S54) is performed.

[0170] For example, for each of the plurality of cooling units (50), the control unit (33) determines the predicted cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50) as the product of the “representative heat capacity” of the cooling unit (50) and the “difference between the temperature of the object to be cooled and the set temperature (actual temperature difference).”

[0171] <Step (S55)> The control unit (33) determines whether the actual capacity (capacity that can actually be exerted) of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient based on the "total predicted cooling capacities of the plurality of cooling units (50)" derived in step (S53) and the "capacity that can actually be exerted by the heat source unit (40)" derived in step (S54). If the actual capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient, the process of step (S56) is performed; otherwise, the process ends.

[0172] For example, the control unit (33) determines that the actual capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient when the “total predicted cooling capacity of each of the plurality of cooling units (50)” exceeds the “capacity that can actually be exerted in the heat source unit (40).”

[0173] [Effects of the embodiment] As described above, in the refrigeration system (10) of the embodiment, the control unit (33) outputs control information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) so that the cooling unit (50) having a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) can perform the cooling operation preferentially over the cooling unit (50) having a lower priority, based on priority information indicating the priority of each of the plurality of cooling units (50), first information that can be used to derive the cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50), and second information that can be used to derive the capacity that can actually be exerted in the heat source unit (40).

[0174] In the above configuration, the cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50) can be derived based on the first information. Furthermore, the capacity that can actually be exerted by the heat source unit (40) can be derived based on the second information. Then, in consideration of the "cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50)" and the "capacity that can actually be exerted by the heat source unit (40)," it is possible to output "control information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) such that a cooling unit (50) having a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) is able to perform the cooling operation preferentially over a cooling unit (50) having a lower priority."

[0175] In a conventional refrigeration system (for example, the refrigeration system of Patent Document 1), when the "capacity that can actually be exerted in the heat source unit (40)" is less than the "cooling capacity required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50)," the capacities of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) are uniformly reduced, and therefore the cooling unit that contains frozen foods, fresh foods, etc. and that should be cooled first cannot be cooled first. On the other hand, in the refrigeration system (10) of the embodiment, the above configuration allows the cooling unit that should be cooled first to be operated first even when the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient.

[0176] In the refrigeration system (10) of the embodiment, the priority of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is set according to the type of contents stored in the showcase (50a) of the cooling unit (50).

[0177] In the above configuration, the priority of the cooling unit (50) can be appropriately set depending on the type of items stored in the showcase (50a) of the cooling unit (50), thereby enabling appropriate processing based on the priority of the cooling unit (50).

[0178] In addition, in the refrigeration system (10) of the embodiment, the control unit (33) outputs control information when the capacity corresponding to the total cooling capacity required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is greater than the capacity that can actually be exerted in the heat source unit (40).

[0179] In the above configuration, when the capacity that the heat source unit (40) can actually exert is insufficient, the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) can be controlled based on the control information so that the cooling unit (50) having a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) can perform the cooling operation preferentially over the cooling units having a lower priority. This makes it easier to ensure the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50) having a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) even when the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient.

[0180] In addition, in the refrigeration system (10) of the embodiment, the control information is information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) so that a cooling unit (50) with a lower priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) stops its cooling operation preferentially over a cooling unit (50) with a higher priority.

[0181] In the above configuration, the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) can be controlled based on the control information so that a cooling unit (50) having a lower priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) stops its cooling operation preferentially over a cooling unit (50) having a higher priority. This makes it easier to ensure the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50) having a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) even when the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient.

[0182] In addition, in the refrigeration system (10) of the embodiment, the control information is information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) so that a cooling unit (50) having a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) can secure cooling capacity preferentially over a cooling unit (50) having a lower priority.

[0183] In the above configuration, the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) can be controlled based on the control information so that the cooling unit (50) with a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) can secure the cooling capacity preferentially over the cooling unit (50) with a lower priority. This makes it easier to secure the cooling capacity of the cooling unit (50) with a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) even when the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient.

[0184] In the refrigeration system (10) of the embodiment, the first information includes information on a representative cooling capacity, which is a representative value of the cooling capacity of each of the plurality of cooling units (50). The total cooling capacity required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is the total of the representative cooling capacities of each of the plurality of cooling units (50).

[0185] In the above configuration, it is possible to appropriately determine whether the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient based on the sum of the representative cooling capacities of the plurality of cooling units (50), thereby enabling appropriate processing for outputting control information.

[0186] In the refrigeration system (10) of the embodiment, the control unit (33) outputs control information based on the priority information, the first information, the second information, and third information indicating the temperature of the object to be cooled and the set temperature in each of the plurality of cooling units (50). The first information includes information that can be used to derive a predicted cooling capacity, which is a predicted value of the cooling capacity required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50). The sum of the cooling capacities required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is the sum of the predicted cooling capacities of each of the plurality of cooling units (50).

[0187] In the above configuration, it is possible to appropriately determine whether the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient based on the sum of the predicted cooling capacities of the plurality of cooling units (50), thereby enabling appropriate processing for outputting control information.

[0188] In the refrigeration system (10) of the embodiment, the priorities include a first priority and a second priority lower than the first priority. The first priority is a priority set for a cooling unit (50) among the plurality of cooling units (50) whose cooling operation is prohibited from being forcibly stopped. The second priority is a priority set for a cooling unit (50) among the plurality of cooling units (50) whose cooling operation is permitted to be forcibly stopped.

[0189] In the above configuration, the plurality of cooling units (50) can be classified into cooling units (50) that may forcibly stop the cooling operation when the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient and cooling units (50) that do not stop the cooling operation even when the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient. This allows for smooth selection of a "cooling unit (50) that will forcibly stop the cooling operation" from among the plurality of cooling units (50) when the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient.

[0190] In the refrigeration system (10) of the embodiment, the adjustment section (35) operates based on control information.

[0191] In the above configuration, the adjusting section (35) capable of adjusting the flow rate of the refrigerant for each cooling unit (50) (in this example, the adjusting valve (36) provided for each cooling unit (50)) is operated based on the control information, thereby enabling control based on the priority of each cooling unit (50) (control of the cooling operation for each cooling unit (50)). This makes it possible to control the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) such that the cooling unit (50) with a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) is able to perform the cooling operation with priority over the cooling unit (50) with a lower priority, taking into consideration the "cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50)" and the "capacity that can actually be exerted by the heat source unit (40)."

[0192] (Modification of the embodiment) FIG. 10 illustrates the configuration of a refrigeration system (10) according to a modification of the embodiment. The refrigeration system (10) according to the modification of the embodiment differs from the refrigeration system (10) according to the embodiment in the connection between the control unit (33) and the usage control unit (56). Furthermore, the refrigeration system (10) according to the modification of the embodiment does not include the information acquisition unit (31) shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The other configurations and processes of the refrigeration system (10) according to the modification of the embodiment are similar to those of the refrigeration system (10) according to the embodiment.

[0193] 11 , in the modified embodiment, the control unit (33) is connected to a usage control unit (56) included in each of the plurality of cooling units (50) via a signal line and is capable of communicating with the usage control unit (56) included in each of the plurality of cooling units (50). The control unit (33) acquires "information related to the cooling unit (50)" from the usage control unit (56) included in each of the plurality of cooling units (50). In this example, the usage control unit (56) included in each of the plurality of cooling units (50) functions as the information acquisition unit (31).

[0194] The “information related to the cooling unit (50)” obtained from the usage control unit (56) includes information obtained by the usage sensor (70), the set temperature of the cooling unit (50), etc. The information obtained by the usage sensor (70) includes the inside temperature obtained by the inside temperature sensor (71), etc.

[0195] The refrigeration system (10) of the modified embodiment can provide the same effects as those of the refrigeration system (10) of the embodiment.

[0196] In the refrigeration system (10) according to the modified embodiment, when the control unit (33) can adjust the opening of the utilization expansion valve (53) by controlling the utilization control unit (56), the adjustment valve (36) shown in Fig. 10 may be omitted. In this case, the utilization expansion valve (53) also serves as the adjustment valve (36).

[0197] (Other embodiments) In the above description, the following configuration or setting may be adopted.

[0198] The control unit (33) may be configured to perform only the first heat source process out of the first heat source process and the second heat source process, or may be configured to perform only the second heat source process. Similarly, the control unit (33) may be configured to perform only the first utilization process out of the first utilization process and the second utilization process, or may be configured to perform only the second utilization process.

[0199] In addition, the heat source control section (46) may control the operation of the heat source unit (40) (specifically, the rotation speed of the compressor constituting the compression element (42)) based on the pressure of the low-pressure side (low-pressure refrigerant) of the refrigerant circuit (25) rather than the fourth information (information indicating the capacity required of the heat source unit (40)) output from the control section (33).

[0200] The regulating valve (36) may be a solenoid valve that can be switched between open and closed. The plurality of cooling units (50) may include a cooling unit (50) that does not have a corresponding regulating valve (36). For example, the regulating valve (36) corresponding to a cooling unit (50) that preferentially stops the cooling operation when the capacity of the heat source unit (40) is insufficient may be the solenoid valve. The cooling unit (50) for which ensuring cooling capacity is given the highest priority may not be provided with a corresponding regulating valve (36).

[0201] The refrigeration system (20) may include one or more cooling units (not shown) for cooling the interior of the refrigeration facility, in addition to a plurality of cooling units (50) for cooling the interior of the refrigeration facility. The refrigeration system (20) may also include other components such as a receiver for separating the stored refrigerant into gas refrigerant and liquid refrigerant.

[0202] The compression element (42) may be composed of a plurality of compressors, which may be connected in series or in parallel.

[0203] The control unit (33) may be configured with a single processor or multiple processors. The multiple processors may be arranged together in a single housing, or may be arranged in different housings. The same applies to the heat source control unit (46) and the usage control unit (56). The storage unit (32) may be configured with a single memory or multiple memories.

[0204] The terms "first," "second," "third," etc. mentioned above are used to distinguish the words to which they are attached, and do not limit the number or order of the words.

[0205] Although the embodiments and modifications have been described, it will be understood that various modifications in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Furthermore, elements of the above-described embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be combined or substituted as appropriate. [Industrial Applicability]

[0206] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY As described above, the present disclosure is useful as a control system and a refrigeration system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0207] 10 Refrigeration System 20 Refrigeration equipment 25 Refrigerant circuit 30 Control System 31 Information Acquisition Department 32 Storage section 33 Control Unit 35 Adjustment part 40 Heat source unit 41 Heat source circuit 42 compression elements 43 Heat source heat exchanger (radiator) 45 Heat source fan 46 Heat source control unit 50 Cooling Unit 51 Circuit used 52 Utilization heat exchanger (evaporator) 53 Expansion valve 55 Fans Used 56 Usage control section 50a Showcase 60 Heat source sensor 70 Sensors Used

Claims

1. A control system is applied to a refrigeration device (20) that performs a refrigeration cycle by circulating a refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (25), the control system comprising: a heat source unit (40) having a compression element (42) and a radiator (43); and a plurality of cooling units (50) each having an evaporator (52) and performing or stopping a cooling operation depending on a difference between a temperature of an object to be cooled and a set temperature, the refrigerant circuit (25), a control unit (33) that controls the refrigeration device (20), the control unit (33) outputs control information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) so that a cooling unit (50) having a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) can perform the cooling operation preferentially over a cooling unit (50) having a lower priority, based on priority information indicating the priority of each of the plurality of cooling units (50), first information usable for deriving a cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50), and second information usable for deriving a capacity that can actually be exerted in the heat source unit (40); the control unit (33) outputs the control information when a capacity corresponding to the total cooling capacity required of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is greater than a capacity that can actually be exerted by the heat source unit (40); the first information includes information on a representative cooling capacity that is a representative value of the cooling capacity of each of the plurality of cooling units (50); the total cooling capacity required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is the total of the representative cooling capacities of each of the plurality of cooling units (50); The representative cooling capacity of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is a capacity corresponding to the product of a representative heat capacity, which is a representative value of the heat capacity of the cooling unit (50), and a representative value of the difference between the temperature of the object to be cooled in the cooling unit (50) and the set temperature. Control system.

2. A control system is applied to a refrigeration device (20) that performs a refrigeration cycle by circulating a refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (25), the control system comprising: a heat source unit (40) having a compression element (42) and a radiator (43); and a plurality of cooling units (50) each having an evaporator (52) and performing or stopping a cooling operation depending on a difference between a temperature of an object to be cooled and a set temperature, the refrigerant circuit (25), a control unit (33) that controls the refrigeration device (20), the control unit (33) outputs control information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) so that a cooling unit (50) having a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) can perform the cooling operation preferentially over a cooling unit (50) having a lower priority, based on priority information indicating the priority of each of the plurality of cooling units (50), first information usable for deriving a cooling capacity required for each of the plurality of cooling units (50), and second information usable for deriving a capacity that can actually be exerted in the heat source unit (40); the control unit (33) outputs the control information when a capacity corresponding to the total cooling capacity required of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is greater than a capacity that can actually be exerted by the heat source unit (40); the control unit (33) outputs the control information based on the priority information, the first information, the second information, and third information indicating the temperature of the object to be cooled and the set temperature in each of the plurality of cooling units (50); the first information includes information that can be used to derive a predicted cooling capacity, which is a predicted value of a cooling capacity required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50); the sum of the cooling capacities required in each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is the sum of the predicted cooling capacities of each of the plurality of cooling units (50); The predicted cooling capacity of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is a capacity corresponding to the product of a representative heat capacity, which is a representative value of the heat capacity of the cooling unit (50), and a difference between the temperature of the object to be cooled in the cooling unit (50) and the set temperature, or a capacity corresponding to the product of a predicted heat capacity, which is a predicted value of the heat capacity of the cooling unit (50), and a difference between the temperature of the object to be cooled in the cooling unit (50) and the set temperature. Control system.

3. 3. The control system according to claim 1 or 2, Each of the plurality of cooling units (50) has a showcase (50a), and cools air in the showcase (50a) during the cooling operation; The priority of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) is set according to the type of contents stored in the showcase (50a) of the cooling unit (50). Control system.

4. 3. The control system according to claim 1 or 2, The control information is information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) so that a cooling unit (50) having a lower priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) stops its cooling operation preferentially over a cooling unit (50) having a higher priority. Control system.

5. 3. The control system according to claim 1 or 2, The control information is information for controlling the cooling operation of each of the plurality of cooling units (50) so that a cooling unit (50) with a higher priority among the plurality of cooling units (50) can ensure cooling capacity preferentially over a cooling unit (50) with a lower priority. Control system.

6. In claim 1 or 2, the priorities include a first priority and a second priority lower than the first priority, the first priority is a priority set for a cooling unit (50) among the plurality of cooling units (50) for which the cooling operation is prohibited from being forcibly stopped, The second priority is a priority set for a cooling unit (50) among the plurality of cooling units (50) for which the cooling operation is permitted to be forcibly stopped. Control system.

7. a control system according to claim 1 or 2; the refrigeration unit (20); an adjusting section (35) capable of adjusting a flow rate of a refrigerant flowing through each of the plurality of cooling units (50), The adjustment section (35) operates based on the control information. Refrigeration system.

Images