Airflow forming system, and method for manufacturing the airflow forming system

Abstract

To facilitate a reduction in infection risk of an infectious disease in an object space.SOLUTION: An air flow forming system (100) comprises an air conditioning system (1), and a return flow mechanism (2). The air conditioning system (1) supplies air to an object space (4) from an upper space (44) of a ceiling (41) in the object space (4), and exhausts the air to the upper space (44) from the object space (4). The return flow mechanism (2) forms a return flow path (20) for sucking the air in the object space (4) from a position closer to a floor (42) than the ceiling (41) in the object space (4), and returning the sucked air to the upper space (44).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0004] , , ,

[0005] , , ,

[0006] , The recirculation path exists in the target space. The recirculation mechanism includes a second opening provided in the floor that introduces the air from the target space into the recirculation path via the space below the floor, and a fan that draws the air up toward the upper space via the recirculation path.

[0001] The present invention relates to an airflow forming system and a method for manufacturing the airflow forming system.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a ventilation system in which a plurality of ventilation devices are installed in one target space, and each ventilation device includes a carbon dioxide sensor.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present invention provides an airflow forming system and the like that can easily reduce the risk of infection with infectious diseases in a target space.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] An airflow forming system according to an aspect of the present invention includes an air conditioning system and a reflux mechanism. The air conditioning system supplies air from an upper space above a ceiling in a target space to the target space, and exhausts the air from the target space to the upper space. The reflux mechanism forms a reflux path that sucks air in the target space from a position closer to the floor than the ceiling in the target space and refluxes the sucked air to the upper space. The recirculation path exists in the target space. The recirculation mechanism includes a second opening provided in the floor that introduces the air from the target space into the recirculation path via the space below the floor, and a fan that draws the air up toward the upper space via the recirculation path.

[0006] An airflow forming system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises an air conditioning system and a recirculation mechanism. The air conditioning system supplies air from the space above the ceiling in the target space to the target space and exhausts the air from the target space to the space above. The recirculation mechanism draws air from the floor in the target space and forms a recirculation path that recirculates the drawn air to the space above the ceiling of the floor below the floor. The recirculation mechanism includes an opening that introduces the air from the target space to the space below the floor and introduces the air from the space below to the space above the ceiling of the floor below.

[0007] A method for manufacturing an airflow forming system according to one aspect of the present invention involves installing a recirculation mechanism in the target space to which an air conditioning system is installed. The air conditioning system supplies air from the space above the ceiling in the target space to the target space and exhausts the air from the target space to the space above. The recirculation mechanism draws in air from the target space from a position closer to the floor than the ceiling and forms a recirculation path that recirculates the drawn-in air to the space above. The recirculation path exists in the target space. The recirculation mechanism includes a second opening provided in the floor that introduces the air from the target space into the recirculation path via the space below the floor, and a fan that draws the air up toward the upper space via the recirculation path.

[0008] A method for manufacturing an airflow forming system according to one aspect of the present invention involves installing an air conditioning system in a target space and installing a recirculation mechanism. The air conditioning system supplies air from the space above the ceiling in the target space to the target space and exhausts the air from the target space to the space above. The recirculation mechanism draws in air from the target space from a position closer to the floor than the ceiling and forms a recirculation path that recirculates the drawn-in air to the space above. The recirculation path exists in the target space. The recirculation mechanism includes a second opening provided in the floor that introduces the air from the target space into the recirculation path via the space below the floor, and a fan that draws the air up toward the upper space via the recirculation path. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] An airflow formation system, etc., according to one aspect of the present invention has the advantage of easily reducing the risk of infection from infectious diseases in the target space. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram showing a first configuration example of an airflow forming system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of a recirculation path for the airflow forming system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram showing a second configuration example of the airflow forming system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a diagram showing a third configuration example of the airflow formation system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a first control example of the airflow formation system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a second control example of the airflow formation system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7A] Figure 7A is an explanatory diagram of the airflow formed by the comparative example airflow formation system. [Figure 7B] Figure 7B is an explanatory diagram of the airflow formed by the airflow formation system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of the configuration of the airflow formation system according to Embodiment 2. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below are all comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions and connection configurations of components, steps, and the order of steps shown in the following embodiments are examples only and are not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, components in the following embodiments that are not described in an independent claim will be described as optional components.

[0012] Please note that each figure is a schematic diagram and not necessarily a strictly accurate representation. Furthermore, in each figure, substantially identical components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations may be omitted or simplified.

[0013] (Embodiment 1) [Configuration] First, the configuration of the airflow formation system 100 according to Embodiment 1 will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a first configuration example of the airflow formation system 100 according to Embodiment 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the airflow formation system 100 is a system that forms an airflow in the target space 4. The target space 4 is, for example, a room in a facility such as an office building. The target space 4 is not limited to a single large room, and may be a plurality of rooms partitioned by walls or the like. The facility is not limited to an office building, and may be other facilities. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the target space 4 includes a plurality (here, two) of spaces (the first indoor space 4a and the second indoor space 4b). In the example shown in FIG. 1, a wall is not provided at the boundary (see the dashed line in FIG. 1) between the first indoor space 4a and the second indoor space 4b, but a wall may be provided. Also, the target space 4 may be a single space without including a plurality of spaces.

[0014] The arrow A1 shown in FIG. 1 represents the flow of air, and the same applies to other figures. The airflow formation system 100 forms a downward airflow (downflow) from above to below in the target space 4 (here, each of the first indoor space 4a and the second indoor space 4b). For example, if a downflow is formed in an office where the density of people fluctuates greatly, the fine particles (aerosols) floating in the air are blown down toward the floor 42 side. If fine particles attached with infectious substances (such as viruses) are floating in the air, there is a concern that the infectious disease will spread without any countermeasures. On the other hand, in the case of the airflow formation system 100 according to Embodiment 1, since the fine particles are blown down toward the floor 42 side by the above-mentioned downflow, an effect of suppressing the spread of infectious diseases caused by the fine particles floating in the air can be expected.

[0015] The airflow formation system 100 includes an air conditioning system 1 and a reflux mechanism 2. The airflow formation system 100 further includes a controller 3 for controlling the airflow. The controller 3 will be described in detail in [Controller] described later.

[0016] The air conditioning system 1 supplies air from the upper space 44 above the ceiling 41 in the target space 4 to the target space 4, and exhausts air from the target space 4 to the upper space 44. Specifically, the air conditioning system 1 supplies air from the upper space 44 to the target space 4 through the air supply openings 46 provided in the ceiling 41. Also, the air conditioning system 1 exhausts air from the target space 4 to the upper space 44 through the exhaust openings 47 provided in the ceiling 41. In the example shown in FIG. 1, one first air supply opening 46a and one first exhaust opening 47a are provided in the first indoor space 4a, but each may be plural. Also, one second air supply opening 46b and one second exhaust opening 47b are provided in the second indoor space 4b, but each may be plural. The air conditioning system 1 includes an AHU (Air Handling Unit) 11 and a return air fan 12.

[0017] The AHU 11 takes in a part of the return air from the target space 4 and the outside air, cools or heats the taken-in air, and then supplies it to the target space 4. Specifically, the AHU 11 supplies air to the upper space 44 above the ceiling 41 of the target space 4. The AHU 11 includes an air filter 111, a heating and cooling device 112, a humidifier 113, and a blower 114. The air filter 111 is, for example, a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter, and removes foreign substances such as dust from the passing air. The heating and cooling device 112 has, for example, a steam coil for heating and a chilled water coil for cooling, and generates cold air or warm air by passing air through the installation locations of these coils. The humidifier 113 humidifies the air that has passed through the heating and cooling device 112 as necessary. The blower 114 sucks in the cold air or warm air that has passed through the humidifier 113, and supplies the sucked-in cold air or warm air to the upper space 44 above the ceiling 41 of the target space 4 through the air supply duct 5.

[0018] The return air fan 12 sucks in the air exhausted from the upper space 44 above the ceiling 41 of the target space 4, supplies a part of the sucked-in air to the AHU 11 through the return air duct 6, and exhausts the remaining air outside the facility.

[0019] The recirculation mechanism 2 is a mechanism for creating an airflow in the target space 4 that moves from top to bottom by recirculating the air supplied from the air conditioning system 1 to the target space 4 to the space 44 above the ceiling 41 of the target space 4. In other words, the recirculation mechanism 2 draws in air from the target space 4 from a position closer to the floor 42 than to the ceiling 41, and forms a recirculation path 20 that recirculates the drawn-in air to the space 44 above.

[0020] Figure 2 shows an example of a recirculation path 20 of the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1. In the example shown in Figure 2, the recirculation path 20 is a combination of the first and second configuration examples described later, with the lower end of the duct 23 connected to the space below the floor 42 43. As shown in Figure 2, in Embodiment 1, the recirculation path 20 is realized by a duct 23 installed in the target space 4. The duct 23 is, for example, a long rectangular tube in the vertical direction, and is attached to the ceiling 41 of the target space 4 so that its upper end is connected to the space above 44. Therefore, it is possible to introduce air drawn in from the target space 4 into the space above 44 through the inside of the duct 23. It is preferable that the duct 23 be installed in a corner of the target space 4 (for example, near a pillar in the corner of a room) and covered with wall material 23a so that it is not noticeable to people staying in the target space 4.

[0021] The following are specific configuration examples of the airflow forming system 100. In any of the first to third configuration examples shown below, the airflow forming system 100 is capable of forming an airflow that flows from top to bottom in the target space 4.

[0022] Figure 1 is a diagram showing a first configuration example of the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1. In the first configuration example, as shown in Figure 1, the recirculation mechanism 2 comprises a first opening 21 and a fan 24. The first opening 21 is located closer to the floor 42 than to the ceiling 41 and introduces air from the target space 4 into the recirculation path 20. Specifically, the first opening 21 is located at the lower end of the duct 23 corresponding to the recirculation path 20 and connects the target space 4 with the inside of the duct 23. The fan 24 draws air up toward the upper space 44 via the recirculation path 20. Specifically, the fan 24 is installed inside the duct 23, draws air from the target space 4 through the first opening 21, and supplies the drawn air to the upper space 44 above the ceiling 41 of the target space 4 via the inside of the duct 23.

[0023] In the first configuration example, the air supplied from the air conditioning system 1 to the target space 4 passes through the air intake 46, the area along the floor 42, the first opening 21, the inside of the duct 23, and the upper space 44 in that order. As a result, in the first configuration example, an airflow is formed in the target space 4 that flows from top to bottom.

[0024] Figure 3 shows a second configuration example of the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1. In the second configuration example, as shown in Figure 3, the recirculation mechanism 2 includes a second opening 22 and a fan 24. The second opening 22 is provided in the floor 42 and introduces air from the target space 4 to the recirculation path 20 via the space 43 below the floor 42. Specifically, the second opening 22 is a ventilation hole provided in the floor 42, and is constructed by fitting, for example, a grill (mesh-like structure), and connects the target space 4 and the space 43 below. In the example shown in Figure 3, one second opening 22 is provided in each of the first indoor space 4a and the second indoor space 4b. The fan 24 is installed inside the duct 23, similar to the first configuration example. Here, in the second configuration example, the lower end of the duct 23 is attached to the floor 42 so as to connect to the space 43 below. Therefore, it is possible to introduce air drawn in from the target space 4 to the lower space 43 through the inside of the duct 23 into the upper space 44. The fan 24 then draws in air from the target space 4 through the second opening 22 and supplies the drawn-in air to the upper space 44 through the inside of the duct 23.

[0025] In the second configuration example, the air supplied from the air conditioning system 1 to the target space 4 passes through the air intake 46, the second opening 22, the lower space 43, the inside of the duct 23, and the upper space 44 in that order. As a result, in the second configuration example, an airflow is formed in the target space 4 that flows from top to bottom.

[0026] Figure 4 shows a third configuration example of the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1. In this third configuration example, as shown in Figure 4, the recirculation mechanism 2 further includes an intake fan 25 that draws air from the target space 4 to the second opening 22. The intake fan 25 is installed in the space 43 below the floor 42 near the second opening 22, and draws air from the target space 4 through the second opening 22, supplying the drawn air to the inside of the duct 23 through the space 43 below. In the example shown in Figure 4, one intake fan 25 is provided for each second opening 22.

[0027] In the third configuration example, the air supplied from the air conditioning system 1 to the target space 4 passes through the air intake 46, the second opening 22, the intake fan 25, the lower space 43, the inside of the duct 23, and the upper space 44 in that order. As a result, in the third configuration example, an airflow is formed in the target space 4 from top to bottom. In addition, in the third configuration example, since air is drawn in from the target space 4 by the intake fan 25, it is easier to form an airflow from top to bottom compared to the second configuration example.

[0028] Incidentally, if multiple second openings 22 are provided in the target space 4, it is preferable that the opening area of ​​the second openings 22 increases the further they are from the fan 24. With this configuration, the amount of air drawn in from each second opening 22 tends to be uniform, making it easier to form a uniform airflow from top to bottom in the target space 4.

[0029] [controller] The controller 3 of the airflow formation system 100 will be described in detail below. The controller 3 is a control device that primarily controls the AHU 11, return fan 12, and fan 24 of the air conditioning system 1. In addition, if the airflow formation system 100 is equipped with an intake fan 25, the controller 3 also controls the intake fan 25. The controller 3 is a local controller installed in the facility, but it may also be implemented as a cloud server installed outside the facility. The controller 3 comprises a communication unit 31, an information processing unit 32, and a storage unit 33.

[0030] The communication unit 31 is a communication circuit (in other words, a communication module) for communicating with the AHU 11, the return fan 12, and the fan 24. Furthermore, if the airflow forming system 100 is equipped with an intake fan 25, or a barometer 34 (see Figure 5) or differential pressure gauge 35 (see Figure 6), the communication unit 31 also communicates with these devices. The communication standard used by the communication unit 31 is not particularly limited.

[0031] The information processing unit 32 performs information processing to control the airflow formed in the target space 4. The information processing unit 32 is implemented by, for example, a microcomputer, but may also be implemented by a processor. The information processing unit 32 has, as functional components, an acquisition unit 321 and a control unit 322. The functions of the acquisition unit 321 and the control unit 322 are realized, for example, by the microcomputer or the like that constituting the information processing unit 32 executing a computer program stored in the storage unit 33.

[0032] The acquisition unit 321 acquires the measurement results of the barometer 34 or differential pressure gauge 35, or the control parameters of the fan 12, via the communication unit 31. Specifically, when the control unit 322 follows the first control example described later, the acquisition unit 321 acquires the measurement results of the barometer 34. Here, the barometer 34 is a device that measures the atmospheric pressure in the upper space 44. When the control unit 322 follows the second control example described later, the acquisition unit 321 acquires the measurement results of the differential pressure gauge 35. Here, the differential pressure gauge 35 is a device that measures the difference between the atmospheric pressure in the upper space 44 and the atmospheric pressure in the target space 4. When the control unit 322 follows the third control example described later, the acquisition unit 321 acquires the control parameters of the fan 12 of the air conditioning system 1.

[0033] The control unit 322 controls the fan 24. Specifically, the control unit 322 controls the fan 24 so that the amount of air drawn up by the fan 24 does not exceed the amount of air exhausted by the air conditioning system 1. In other words, the control unit 322 controls the fan 24 so that the air pressure in the upper space 44 becomes negative, or to put it another way, so that the air pressure in the upper space 44 is less than or equal to the air pressure in the target space 4. By controlling it in this way, it becomes difficult for air to flow back from the upper space 44 to the target space 4 through the exhaust port 47, and the formation of an airflow from top to bottom is less likely to be hindered. The following are examples of control of the fan 24 by the control unit 322.

[0034] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a first control example of the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1. In the first control example, the control unit 322 controls the fan 24 based on the measurement result of the barometer 34, thereby limiting the amount of air drawn up by the fan 24 so as not to exceed the amount of air exhausted by the air conditioning system 1. That is, the control unit 322 controls the fan 24 so that the measured value of the barometer 34 does not exceed a reference value. Here, the reference value is set in advance to a value that the atmospheric pressure in the target space 4 can take during the operation of the air conditioning system 1, for example. Therefore, when the measured value of the barometer 34 exceeds the reference value, the control unit 322 controls the amount of air drawn up by the fan 24 to decrease. As a result, the measured value of the barometer 34 is maintained below the reference value, and the state in which the atmospheric pressure in the upper space 44 is below the atmospheric pressure in the target space 4 is maintained.

[0035] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a second control example of the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1. In the second control example, the control unit 322 controls the fan 24 based on the measurement result of the differential pressure gauge 35, thereby limiting the amount of air drawn up by the fan 24 so as not to exceed the amount of air exhausted by the air conditioning system 1. That is, the control unit 322 controls the fan 24 so that the measured value of the differential pressure gauge 35 is zero or less. Here, the measured value of the differential pressure gauge 35 is the value obtained by subtracting the atmospheric pressure of the target space 4 from the atmospheric pressure of the upper space 44. In other words, if the measured value of the differential pressure gauge 35 is zero or less, the atmospheric pressure of the upper space 44 is less than or equal to the atmospheric pressure of the target space 4. Therefore, if the measured value of the differential pressure gauge 35 exceeds zero, the control unit 322 controls the amount of air drawn up by the fan 24 to be small. As a result, the measured value of the differential pressure gauge 35 is maintained at zero or less, and the state in which the atmospheric pressure of the upper space 44 is less than or equal to the atmospheric pressure of the target space 4 is maintained.

[0036] In the third control example, the control unit 322 calculates the exhaust volume from the control parameters of the return fan 12 acquired by the acquisition unit 321. Here, the control parameters of the return fan 12 may include, for example, the rotation speed of the fan of the return fan 12, the operating frequency of the inverter of the return fan 12, or the power consumption of the return fan 12. Based on the control parameters of the return fan 12, the control unit 322 calculates the amount of air that the return fan 12 will draw in, that is, the amount of air exhausted by the air conditioning system 1. Then, the control unit 322 compares the amount of air drawn up by the fan 24 with the calculated exhaust volume and controls the fan 24 so that the amount of air drawn up does not exceed the exhaust volume. This maintains a state in which the atmospheric pressure in the upper space 44 is less than or equal to the atmospheric pressure in the target space 4.

[0037] Furthermore, if the target space 4 includes multiple spaces (in this case, the first indoor space 4a and the second indoor space 4b), the control unit 322 can control the amount of air supplied to the target space 4 for each space, i.e., the airflow intensity. Specifically, the control unit 322 controls the amount of air supplied to the target space 4 (airflow intensity) by controlling a regulator 7 installed in the air supply duct 5 extending from the air conditioning system 1 to the air supply port 46. The regulator 7 is, for example, a variable air volume control device (VAV). Note that the regulator 7 may also be an airflow control damper.

[0038] In the example shown in Figure 1, air is supplied to the first indoor space 4a via the first air supply duct 5a and the first air supply port 46a. The amount of air supplied to the first indoor space 4a is controlled by the control unit 322 controlling the first regulator 7a installed in the first air supply duct 5a. In addition, air is supplied to the second indoor space 4b via the second air supply duct 5b and the second air supply port 46b. The amount of air supplied to the second indoor space 4b is controlled by the control unit 322 controlling the second regulator 7b installed in the second air supply duct 5b.

[0039] Furthermore, the control unit 322 can control the airflow according to the number or density of people (number of people per unit area) in the target space 4. The higher the density of people in the target space 4, the higher the likelihood that airborne particles (droplets, etc.) with infectious substances attached are floating in the air. In other words, the risk of infection from infectious diseases caused by airborne particles is considered to be high in the target space 4. Therefore, by controlling the airflow according to the number or density of people in the target space 4, the airflow formation system 100 can effectively form airflow according to the infection risk, rather than forming an average airflow within the limitations of the capacity of the equipment for forming airflow.

[0040] The number or density of people in the target space 4 can be estimated, for example, by installing a camera in the target space 4. The camera is, for example, a surveillance camera that captures images (moving or still images) of the target space 4 and transmits the image information of the captured images to the communication unit 31 of the controller 3. The control unit 322 estimates the number of people present in the target space 4 by processing the image information acquired via the communication unit 31. For example, the control unit 322 performs face recognition processing on the image information and estimates the number of people as the number of recognized faces. Alternatively, the control unit 322 may estimate the number of people from the image information using template matching or other existing methods. Furthermore, if the floor area of ​​the target space 4 is stored in the storage unit 33 in advance, the control unit 322 may calculate the density of people in the target space 4 using the floor area. The control unit 322 then controls the regulator 7 so that the amount of air (airflow strength) supplied to the target space 4 increases as the number of people increases or the density of people increases.

[0041] Furthermore, the number or density of people in the target space 4 can be estimated, for example, by installing a carbon dioxide concentration sensor in the target space 4. The carbon dioxide concentration sensor is a device that measures the concentration of carbon dioxide in the target space 4 and transmits the measured value to the communication unit 31 of the controller 3. The control unit 322 estimates the number of people in the target space 4 based on the measured value of carbon dioxide concentration obtained via the communication unit 31. That is, the control unit 322 estimates that the higher the carbon dioxide concentration, the greater the number of people in the target space 4. Also, if the floor area of ​​the target space 4 is stored in the storage unit 33 in advance, the control unit 322 may calculate the density of people in the target space 4 using the floor area. The control unit 322 then controls the regulator 7 so that the amount of air supplied to the target space 4 (airflow strength) increases as the number of people increases or the density of people increases.

[0042] Of course, if the target space 4 includes multiple spaces (in this case, a first indoor space 4a and a second indoor space 4b), and the number or density of people can be estimated for each space, the control unit 322 may control the airflow according to the number or density of people in each space. In this embodiment, for example, a camera or a carbon dioxide concentration sensor can be installed in the first indoor space 4a and the second indoor space 4b, respectively.

[0043] The memory unit 33 is a storage device that stores various information necessary for the information processing unit 32 to form and control airflow in the target space 4, as well as computer programs and the like. The memory unit 33 is implemented, for example, by a semiconductor memory.

[0044] [Manufacturing method] The manufacturing method of the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1 will be described below. Here, it is assumed that an air conditioning system 1 corresponding to the target space 4 is already installed in the facility. Of course, the air conditioning system 1 does not have to be already installed, and may be newly installed. In this case, the contractor only needs to perform the step of installing the air conditioning system 1 corresponding to the target space 4 in the manufacturing method of the airflow forming system 100 described below.

[0045] The method for manufacturing the airflow forming system 100 is carried out by installing a recirculation mechanism 2 in the target space 4 to which the air conditioning system 1 is installed. As already described, the air conditioning system 1 supplies air to the target space 4 from the space 44 above the ceiling 41 in the target space 4 and exhausts air from the target space 4 to the space 44 above. As already described, the recirculation mechanism 2 draws in air from the target space 4 from a position closer to the floor 42 than to the ceiling 41 in the target space 4 and forms a recirculation path 20 that recirculates the drawn-in air to the space 44 above.

[0046] For example, when manufacturing an airflow forming system 100 corresponding to the first configuration example, the installer installs a duct 23 corresponding to the recirculation path 20 at an arbitrary location in the target space 4 and connects the upper end of the duct 23 to the space 44 above the ceiling 41. The location where the duct 23 is installed is preferably, for example, a corner of the room which is the target space 4. The installer also performs the step of creating a first opening 21 by making a hole in the duct 23 at a location closer to the floor 42 than to the ceiling 41. The closer the first opening 21 is to the floor 42, the better. The installer then performs the step of installing a fan 24 inside the duct 23. In this way, an airflow forming system 100 corresponding to the first configuration example, which includes an air conditioning system 1 and a recirculation mechanism 2 (duct 23, first opening 21, and fan 24), is manufactured.

[0047] Furthermore, for example, when manufacturing an airflow forming system 100 corresponding to the second configuration example, the installer, in the same manner as above, installs a duct 23 corresponding to the recirculation path 20 at an arbitrary position in the target space 4 and connects the upper end of the duct 23 to the space 44 above the ceiling 41. The installer also installs the lower end of the duct 23 to the space 43 below the floor 42. In addition, the installer installs a fan 24 inside the duct 23, in the same manner as above. Then, the installer creates a second opening 22 by making a hole in the floor 42 of the target space 4 or by removing the floor panel of the floor 42. In this way, an airflow forming system 100 corresponding to the second configuration example, equipped with an air conditioning system 1 and a recirculation mechanism 2 (duct 23, second opening 22, and fan 24), is manufactured.

[0048] Furthermore, for example, when manufacturing an airflow forming system 100 corresponding to the third configuration example, the contractor performs the step of installing an intake fan 25 in the process of manufacturing the airflow forming system 100 corresponding to the second configuration example. The intake fan 25 is preferably installed in the vicinity of the second opening 22 in the space below the floor 42, such as directly below the second opening 22. In this way, an airflow forming system 100 corresponding to the third configuration example, which includes an air conditioning system 1 and a recirculation mechanism 2 (duct 23, second opening 22, intake fan 25, and fan 24), is manufactured.

[0049] [advantage] The advantages of the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1 will be explained below, along with a comparison to the airflow forming system of the comparative example. Figure 7A is an explanatory diagram of the airflow formed by the airflow forming system of the comparative example. Figure 7B is an explanatory diagram of the airflow formed by the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1. In the example shown in Figure 7B, a second opening 22 is provided in the floor 42, as in the second configuration example. The airflow forming system of the comparative example differs from the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1 in that it is simply an air conditioning system 1 and does not have a recirculation mechanism 2.

[0050] In the comparative example's airflow formation system, as shown in Figure 7A, since it does not have a recirculation mechanism 2, the air in the target space 4 is drawn in from the exhaust port 47 in the ceiling 41 to the upper space 44. As a result, in the comparative example's airflow formation system, an airflow from top to bottom is not formed in the target space 4, and even if fine particles with infectious substances (viruses, etc.) attached are floating in the air, the fine particles are not easily blown down towards the floor 42. Consequently, in the comparative example's airflow formation system, fine particles tend to remain in the target space 4 for a relatively long period of time, making it difficult to suppress the spread of infectious diseases caused by airborne fine particles and making it difficult to reduce the risk of infection in the target space 4.

[0051] In contrast, the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1 can form an airflow (downflow) that moves from top to bottom in the target space 4, as shown in Figure 7B. Therefore, in the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1, even if fine particles with infectious substances (viruses, etc.) attached are floating in the air, the downflow blows the fine particles down towards the floor 42. Consequently, the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1 is expected to have the effect of suppressing the spread of infectious diseases caused by fine particles floating in the air, and has the advantage of easily reducing the risk of infection with infectious diseases in the target space 4.

[0052] Furthermore, the manufacturing method of the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1 has the advantage of being easy to construct, as it is possible to form an airflow from top to bottom in the target space 4 simply by adding a recirculation mechanism 2 to the air conditioning system 1. For example, if the air conditioning system 1 is already installed in the facility, the contractor can construct the airflow forming system 100 simply by performing the step of installing the recirculation mechanism 2 in the target space 4. In other words, with the manufacturing method of the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1, when it is desired to form an airflow from top to bottom in the target space 4, it is not necessary to construct a system from scratch, and it is possible to easily construct a system while reducing costs by utilizing the existing air conditioning system 1.

[0053] (Embodiment 2) [composition] The configuration of the airflow forming system 100A according to Embodiment 2 will be described below. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the airflow forming system 100A according to Embodiment 2. The airflow forming system 100A according to Embodiment 2 differs from the airflow forming system 100 according to Embodiment 1 in that it is equipped with a recirculation mechanism 2A instead of the recirculation mechanism 2. Specifically, the recirculation mechanism 2A draws in air from the floor 42 in the target space 4 and forms a recirculation path 20A that recirculates the drawn-in air to the space 45 above the ceiling of the floor below the floor 42. The recirculation mechanism 2A also includes an opening 26 that introduces air from the target space 4 to the space 43 below the floor 42, and introduces air from the space 43 above the ceiling of the floor below the floor 45.

[0054] Specifically, the opening 26 is composed of a ventilation hole provided in the floor 42 and a ventilation hole provided in the building material 48 that separates the floor containing the target space 4 from the floor below. Each ventilation hole is fitted with, for example, a grill (a mesh-like structure). In the example shown in Figure 8, one opening 26 is provided in each of the first interior space 4a and the second interior space 4b.

[0055] In the recirculation mechanism 2A, a recirculation path 20A is formed using another air conditioning system 1A located on the floor below. The other air conditioning system 1A has the same configuration as air conditioning system 1, except that the target space 4A is the space on the floor below the target space 4. That is, the other air conditioning system 1A supplies air to the target space 4A from the space above the ceiling 41A (space above the ceiling 45) and exhausts air from the target space 4A to the space above. By utilizing this airflow from the target space 4A to the other air conditioning system 1A via the space above the ceiling 45, the recirculation mechanism 2A forms a recirculation path 20A in which air recirculates in the order of target space 4, opening 26, space above the ceiling 45, and the other air conditioning system 1A. In the example shown in Figure 8, the other air conditioning system 1A does not constitute the airflow forming system 100 (or 100A) together with the recirculation mechanism 2 (or 2A), but it may.

[0056] [Manufacturing method] The manufacturing method of the airflow forming system 100A according to Embodiment 2 will be described below. Here, it is assumed that an air conditioning system 1 corresponding to the target space 4 is already installed in the facility. Of course, the air conditioning system 1 does not have to be already installed, and may be newly installed. In this case, the contractor only needs to perform the step of installing the air conditioning system 1 corresponding to the target space 4 in the manufacturing method of the airflow forming system 100A described below.

[0057] The manufacturing method for the airflow forming system 100A is carried out by installing a recirculation mechanism 2A in the target space 4 to which the air conditioning system 1 is installed. As already described, the air conditioning system 1 supplies air to the target space 4 from the space 44 above the ceiling 41 in the target space 4 and exhausts air from the target space 4 to the space 44 above. As already described, the recirculation mechanism 2A draws in air from the floor 42 in the target space 4 and forms a recirculation path 20A that recirculates the drawn-in air to the space 45 above the ceiling of the floor below the floor 42. The recirculation mechanism 2A is equipped with an opening 26 that introduces air from the target space 4 to the space 43 below the floor and introduces air from the space 43 above the ceiling of the floor below.

[0058] Specifically, the contractor performs the process of creating an opening 26 by, for example, drilling a hole connecting the floor 42 of the target space 4 to the space 45 above the ceiling of the floor below. In this way, an airflow forming system 100A equipped with an air conditioning system 1 and a recirculation mechanism 2A (opening 26) is manufactured.

[0059] [advantage] In the airflow forming system 100A according to Embodiment 2, similar to Embodiment 1, an airflow (downflow) can be formed in the target space 4 from top to bottom, which has the advantage of making it easier to reduce the risk of infection from infectious diseases in the target space 4. In addition, in the airflow forming system 100A according to Embodiment 2, since the return path 20A is formed using another air conditioning system 1A on the floor below, there is no need to install a duct 23 and a fan 24 in the target space 4, which is another advantage.

[0060] (modified version) Although embodiments 1 and 2 have been described above, the present invention is not limited to embodiments 1 and 2. Below, variations of embodiments 1 and 2 are listed. The variations described below may be combined as appropriate.

[0061] In embodiments 1 and 2, the controller 3 is responsible not only for controlling the fan 24 but also for controlling the air conditioning system 1, but is not limited to this. For example, the controller 3 may be responsible only for controlling the fan 24. In this case, the air conditioning system 1 is controlled by a controller provided separately from the controller 3.

[0062] In embodiments 1 and 2, the ceiling 41 is provided with an exhaust port 47 that exhausts air from the target space 4 to the space above the ceiling 41 44, but the exhaust port 47 does not have to be provided. That is, if an existing air conditioning system 1 is used before installing the airflow forming system 100, the air conditioning system 1 ventilates by exhausting air from the target space 4 through the exhaust port 47 provided in the ceiling 41. In this case, when constructing the airflow forming system 100 using the existing air conditioning system 1, the exhaust port 47 may or may not be blocked. Note that if the exhaust port 47 is blocked, the path for exhausting air from the target space 4 is limited, which improves the intake efficiency of air from the target space 4 to the return path 20, and thus has the advantage of making it easier to form an airflow from top to bottom.

[0063] The arrangement of the AHU11, fan 24, and intake fan 25 in Embodiment 1 is just an example. For example, since fan 24 only needs to be able to form an airflow from the recirculation path 20 toward the upper space 44, it is not limited to being installed in the duct 23, but may be installed in the space below the floor 42, for example, or in the space above the ceiling 41, for example. Similarly, since intake fan 25 only needs to be able to form an airflow from the target space 4 toward the recirculation path 20, it is not limited to being installed in the space below the floor 42, for example, but may be installed in the duct 23, for example. In addition, fan 24 and intake fan 25 may be added or omitted as needed.

[0064] The arrangement of the first opening 21 and the second opening 22 in Embodiment 1, and the arrangement of the opening 26 in Embodiment 2, are examples. For example, in the example shown in Figure 1, one first opening 21 is provided in each of the first interior space 4a and the second interior space 4b, but multiple openings 21 may be provided. Similarly, in the examples shown in Figures 2 and 3, one second opening 22 is provided in each of the first interior space 4a and the second interior space 4b, but multiple openings 22 may be provided. Also, in the example shown in Figure 8, one opening 26 is provided in each of the first interior space 4a and the second interior space 4b, but multiple openings 26 may be provided.

[0065] The first opening 21 and the second opening 22 in Embodiment 1, and the opening 26 in Embodiment 2, may be configured to vary the amount of air intake from the target space 4 by making the opening area variable. This configuration can be realized, for example, by providing an airflow adjustment damper in the first opening 21, the second opening 22, or the opening 26.

[0066] In embodiments 1 and 2, it is conceivable to control the airflow pressure so as not to blow down with an airflow volume that is uncomfortable for people in the target space 4. Specifically, it is conceivable to control the airflow pressure from the air intake vent 46 so that the airflow pressure upon reaching the floor 42 of the target space 4 is naturally attenuated to a level that is not uncomfortable for people. As an example, the distance from the ceiling 41 to the floor 42 in the target space 4 (i.e., the height of the target space 4) is measured in advance, and the airflow pressure from the air intake vent 46 is controlled by referring to this measurement value in the air conditioning system 1.

[0067] Another example is to install a laser level in the target space 4, automatically measure the distance from the ceiling 41 to the floor directly below (including the floor 42) using the laser level, and control the air pressure of the air supplied from the air intake 46 by referring to the measured value in the air conditioning system 1. In this control example, even if the layout of furniture such as desks or tables in the target space 4 is changed and the furniture is positioned directly below the air intake 46, it is possible to automatically set an appropriate air pressure according to the distance from the air intake 46 to the floor directly below (in this case, the surface of the furniture) as the air pressure supplied from the air intake 46. In other words, this control example has the advantage of automating the setting of the air pressure supplied from the air intake 46 in response to changes in the layout of furniture in the target space 4, thus eliminating the need for troublesome construction work.

[0068] Furthermore, as a means of controlling the airflow pressure, in addition to the means of controlling the airflow pressure from the air intake port 46 as described above, a means of controlling the airflow volume of the airflow returning to the recirculation mechanism 2 (or 2A) can also be considered. That is, by keeping the airflow pressure from the air intake port 46 constant and adjusting the airflow volume of the airflow returning to the recirculation mechanism 2 (or 2A), it is possible to control the airflow pressure in the target space 4. In this case, the air that is not recirculated by the recirculation mechanism 2 (or 2A) is exhausted to the upper space 44, for example, through the exhaust port 47 in the ceiling 41.

[0069] For example, in embodiments 1 and 2 described above, the control unit 322 was implemented by a single device, but it may be implemented by multiple devices. If the control unit 322 is implemented by multiple devices, the functional components of the control unit 322 may be distributed among the multiple devices in any way.

[0070] Furthermore, the method of communication between devices in the above embodiments 1 and 2 is not particularly limited. When two devices communicate in the above embodiments 1 and 2, a relay device (not shown) may be interposed between the two devices.

[0071] Furthermore, in embodiments 1 and 2 described above, each component of the controller 3 may be realized by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may also be realized by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory.

[0072] Furthermore, each component of controller 3 may be implemented in hardware. For example, each component may be a circuit (or integrated circuit). These circuits may form a single circuit as a whole, or they may be separate circuits. Also, each of these circuits may be a general-purpose circuit or a dedicated circuit.

[0073] Furthermore, the present invention also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications to each embodiment that a person skilled in the art could conceive, or forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of each embodiment without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0074] (summary) As described above, the airflow forming system 100 comprises an air conditioning system 1 and a recirculation mechanism 2. The air conditioning system 1 supplies air to the target space 4 from the space 44 above the ceiling 41 in the target space 4 and exhausts air from the target space 4 to the space 44 above. The recirculation mechanism 2 draws in air from the target space 4 from a position closer to the floor 42 than to the ceiling 41 in the target space 4 and forms a recirculation path 20 that recirculates the drawn-in air to the space 44 above.

[0075] This airflow formation system 100 has the advantage of being able to form an airflow from top to bottom in the target space 4, thus making it easier to reduce the risk of infection from infectious diseases in the target space 4.

[0076] Furthermore, in the airflow forming system 100, for example, the recirculation mechanism 2 includes a first opening 21 and a fan 24. The first opening 21 is located closer to the floor 42 than to the ceiling 41 and introduces air from the target space 4 into the recirculation path 20. The fan 24 draws air upward towards the upper space 44 via the recirculation path 20.

[0077] This airflow forming system 100 has the advantage that, by providing a relatively simple configuration consisting of a first opening 21 and a fan 24, it is possible to form an airflow that moves from top to bottom in the target space 4.

[0078] Furthermore, in the airflow forming system 100, for example, the recirculation mechanism 2 includes a second opening 22 and a fan 24. The second opening 22 is provided in the floor 42 and introduces air from the target space 4 through the space 43 below the floor 42 into the recirculation path 20. The fan 24 draws air up towards the space 44 above the recirculation path 20.

[0079] This airflow forming system 100 has the advantage that, by providing a relatively simple configuration consisting of a second opening 22 and a fan 24, it is possible to form an airflow that moves from top to bottom in the target space 4.

[0080] Furthermore, in the airflow forming system 100, for example, the recirculation mechanism 2 further includes an intake fan 25 that draws air from the target space 4 into the second opening 22.

[0081] This type of airflow forming system 100 has the advantage that, because the intake fan 25 draws air from the target space 4 towards the return path 20, it becomes easier to form an airflow that moves from top to bottom in the target space 4.

[0082] Furthermore, for example, the airflow forming system 100 further includes a control unit 322 that controls the fan 24. The control unit 322 controls the fan 24 so that the amount of air drawn up by the fan 24 does not exceed the amount of air exhausted by the air conditioning system 1.

[0083] This airflow formation system 100 has the advantage that it makes it less likely for air to flow back from the upper space 44 to the target space 4, and the formation of airflow from top to bottom is less likely to be hindered.

[0084] Furthermore, for example, the airflow formation system 100 further includes a barometer 34 that measures the atmospheric pressure in the upper space 44. The control unit 322 controls the fan 24 so that the measured value of the barometer 34 does not exceed a reference value.

[0085] This airflow formation system 100 has the advantage that it makes it less likely for air to flow back from the upper space 44 to the target space 4, and the formation of airflow from top to bottom is less likely to be hindered.

[0086] Furthermore, for example, the airflow forming system 100 further includes a differential pressure gauge 35 that measures the difference between the atmospheric pressure in the upper space 44 and the atmospheric pressure in the target space 4. The control unit 322 controls the fan 24 so that the measured value of the differential pressure gauge 35 becomes zero or less.

[0087] This airflow formation system 100 has the advantage that it makes it less likely for air to flow back from the upper space 44 to the target space 4, and the formation of airflow from top to bottom is less likely to be hindered.

[0088] Furthermore, for example, the airflow formation system 100 further includes an acquisition unit 321 that acquires control parameters of the return fan 12 of the air conditioning system 1. The control unit 322 calculates the exhaust volume from the control parameters acquired by the acquisition unit 321.

[0089] This airflow formation system 100 has the advantage that it makes it less likely for air to flow back from the upper space 44 to the target space 4, and the formation of airflow from top to bottom is less likely to be hindered.

[0090] Furthermore, for example, the airflow forming system 100A comprises an air conditioning system 1 and a recirculation mechanism 2A. The air conditioning system 1 supplies air to the target space 4 from the space 44 above the ceiling 41 in the target space 4 and exhausts air from the target space 4 to the space 44 above. The recirculation mechanism 2A draws in air from the floor 42 in the target space 4 and forms a recirculation path 20A that recirculates the drawn-in air to the space 45 above the ceiling of the floor below the floor 42. The recirculation mechanism 2A includes an opening 26 that introduces air from the target space 4 to the space 43 below the floor 42 and introduces air from the space 43 above the ceiling of the floor below.

[0091] This airflow formation system 100A has the advantage of being able to form an airflow from top to bottom in the target space 4, thus making it easier to reduce the risk of infection from infectious diseases in the target space 4.

[0092] Furthermore, for example, in the manufacturing method of the airflow forming system 100, a recirculation mechanism 2 is installed in the target space 4 to which the air conditioning system 1 is installed. The air conditioning system 1 supplies air to the target space 4 from the space 44 above the ceiling 41 in the target space 4 and exhausts air from the target space 4 to the space 44 above. The recirculation mechanism 2 draws in air from the target space 4 from a position closer to the floor 42 than to the ceiling 41 in the target space 4 and forms a recirculation path 20 that recirculates the drawn-in air to the space 44 above.

[0093] According to the manufacturing method of this airflow forming system 100, an airflow from top to bottom can be formed in the target space 4 simply by adding a recirculation mechanism 2 to the air conditioning system 1, which has the advantage of making the system easy to construct.

[0094] Furthermore, for example, in the manufacturing method of the airflow forming system 100, an air conditioning system 1 is installed corresponding to the target space 4, and a recirculation mechanism 2 is installed in the target space 4. The air conditioning system 1 supplies air to the target space 4 from the space 44 above the ceiling 41 in the target space 4, and exhausts air from the target space 4 to the space 44 above. The recirculation mechanism 2 draws in air from the target space 4 from a position closer to the floor 42 than to the ceiling 41 in the target space 4, and forms a recirculation path 20 that recirculates the drawn-in air to the space 44 above.

[0095] According to the manufacturing method of this airflow forming system 100, an airflow from top to bottom can be formed in the target space 4 simply by adding an air conditioning system 1 and a recirculation mechanism 2, which has the advantage of being easy to construct. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 1.1A Air Conditioning System 12 Air return machine 2,2A reflux mechanism 20,20A Recirculation Path 21 First opening 22. Second opening 24 Fans 25 Intake fan 26 Opening 321 Acquisition Department 322 Control Unit 34 barometer 35 Differential pressure gauge 4,4A Target space 41,41A Ceiling 42 beds 43 Downward space 44 Upper space 45. Space above the ceiling 100, 100A Airflow Forming System

Claims

1. An air conditioning system that supplies air from the space above the ceiling in the target space to the target space, and exhausts the air from the target space to the space above, The system includes a recirculation mechanism that draws in air from the target space from a position closer to the floor than the ceiling, and forms a recirculation path that returns the drawn-in air to the upper space, The aforementioned reflux path exists in the target space, The aforementioned reflux mechanism is A second opening is provided in the floor for introducing the air from the target space into the recirculation path via the space below the floor, The system includes a fan that draws the air upward into the space above via the aforementioned recirculation path. Airflow formation system.

2. The aforementioned reflux mechanism is A first opening is provided at a position closer to the floor than the ceiling, for introducing the air from the target space into the recirculation path, The system includes a fan that draws the air upward into the space above via the aforementioned recirculation path. The airflow forming system according to claim 1.

3. The recirculation mechanism further comprises an intake fan that draws the air from the target space into the second opening. The airflow forming system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The control unit further comprises a control unit for controlling the aforementioned fan. The control unit controls the fan so that the amount of air drawn up by the fan does not exceed the amount of air supplied to the target space by the air conditioning system. The airflow forming system according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The system further includes a barometer for measuring the air pressure in the aforementioned upper space, The control unit controls the fan so that the barometer reading does not exceed a reference value. The airflow forming system according to claim 4.

6. The system further includes a differential pressure gauge for measuring the difference between the air pressure in the upper space and the air pressure in the target space. The control unit controls the fan so that the measured value of the differential pressure gauge becomes zero or less. The airflow forming system according to claim 4.

7. The system further includes an acquisition unit for acquiring control parameters of the return fan of the aforementioned air conditioning system. The control unit calculates the amount of air from the control parameters acquired by the acquisition unit. The airflow forming system according to claim 4.

8. In a target space in which an air conditioning system is installed that supplies air from the space above the ceiling in the target space to the target space and exhausts the air from the target space to the space above, In the aforementioned target space, a recirculation mechanism is installed that draws in air from a position closer to the floor than the ceiling, and forms a recirculation path that returns the drawn-in air to the upper space. The aforementioned reflux path exists in the target space, The aforementioned reflux mechanism is A second opening is provided in the floor for introducing the air from the target space into the recirculation path via the space below the floor, The system includes a fan that draws the air upward into the space above via the aforementioned recirculation path. A method for manufacturing an airflow formation system.

9. An air conditioning system is installed in the target space that supplies air from the space above the ceiling in the target space to the target space and exhausts the air from the target space to the space above. In the aforementioned target space, a recirculation mechanism is installed that draws in air from a position closer to the floor than the ceiling, and forms a recirculation path that returns the drawn-in air to the upper space. The aforementioned reflux path exists in the target space, The aforementioned reflux mechanism is A second opening is provided in the floor for introducing the air from the target space into the recirculation path via the space below the floor, The system includes a fan that draws the air upward into the space above via the aforementioned recirculation path. A method for manufacturing an airflow formation system.

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