Heat pump system

Abstract

The operation of the control unit is controlled based on the operation limit of the control unit, which is electrically connected in parallel with the power receiving path of the conversion unit and controls the apparent power in the power receiving path of the conversion unit. [Solution] The power control system has an acquisition means for acquiring control unit information regarding the operating limits of a control unit provided in a heat pump system that adjusts temperature and / or humidity, and a control means for controlling the operation of the control unit based on the control unit information, and the control unit is electrically connected in parallel with the conversion unit's power receiving path, which converts received power and supplies it to a load used for adjustment, and controls the apparent power in the power receiving path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to Hi a heat pump system.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes determining the priority of active power control and reactive power control based on the estimated remaining life of each power conditioner.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses controlling the operation of a conversion unit based on the life of the conversion unit that converts power, but does not disclose controlling the operation of a control unit based on the limit of the operation of the control unit that is connected electrically in parallel with the conversion unit with respect to the power receiving path of the conversion unit and controls the apparent power in the power receiving path of the conversion unit. An object of this disclosure is to control the operation of a control unit based on the limit of the operation of the control unit that is connected electrically in parallel with the conversion unit with respect to the power receiving path of the conversion unit and controls the apparent power in the power receiving path of the conversion unit.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The heat pump system of the present disclosure is a heat pump system for adjusting temperature and / or humidity, comprising: a conversion unit that converts power received from a power line and supplies it to a load used for the adjustment; a control unit that is electrically connected in parallel with the conversion unit to the power receiving path of the conversion unit and controls the apparent power in the power receiving path; an acquisition means for acquiring control unit information relating to the limits of operation of the control unit; and a control means for controlling the operation of the control unit based on the control unit information, wherein the control means is an acquisition means for acquiring the power receiving path as the control unit information. work time Based on this, the remaining time until the limit in which the control unit can operate is calculated, and based on the calculation result The operation of the control unit for adjusting apparent power in the electric wire In stages This heat pump system is characterized by its ability to restrict certain parameters. In this case, even if the indicators meet predetermined conditions, the system can suppress malfunctions in the control unit compared to a system where the control unit's operation is not restricted. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of a power control system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This diagram shows the hardware configuration of the control server and the instruction server. [Figure 3] This diagram shows the functional configuration of HPS. [Figure 4] This diagram shows the functional configuration of the control server. [Figure 5] This diagram shows the HPS management table. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart illustrating the flow of the action decision process. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart showing the process during the adjustment phase. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the attached drawings. Figure 1 shows an example of the power control system 1 according to this embodiment. Power control system 1 is a system that controls apparent power. The power control system 1 includes a power grid 10, multiple power-consuming facilities 20, a control server 30, and an instruction server 40.

[0008] The power system 10 is a system equipped with facilities for supplying electricity to electricity consumers. The power system 10 includes a power plant 11, transmission lines 12, supply-side substations 13, supply-side distribution lines 14, automatic voltage regulators (SVR: Step Voltage Regulator) 15, receiving-side substations 16, receiving-side distribution lines 17, pole-mounted transformers 18, and consumer-side distribution lines 19.

[0009] Power plant 11 is a facility that generates electricity. Examples of power plant 11 include thermal power plants, hydroelectric power plants, nuclear power plants, solar power plants, wind power plants, and geothermal power plants. The transmission line 12 is a line through which the electric current that constitutes the power generated at the power plant 11 flows. The transmission line 12 is installed from the power plant 11 to the supply-side substation 13.

[0010] The supply-side substation 13 is equipment for converting voltage. The supply-side substation 13 is located on the power supply side of the power supply than the receiving-side substation 16. In this embodiment, the equipment located furthest to the power supply side is the power plant 11. The equipment located furthest to the power receiving side is the power consumption facility 20. The supply-side substation 13 converts the voltage supplied through the transmission line 12. Examples of supply-side substations 13 include a substation that converts a voltage of 500,000V to 154,000V, a substation that converts a voltage of 154,000V to 66,000V, and a substation that converts a voltage of 66,000V to 22,000V.

[0011] The supply-side distribution line 14 is a line through which the current generated by applying the voltage converted at the supply-side substation 13 flows. The supply-side distribution line 14 is installed from the supply-side substation 13 to the receiving-side substation 16. Furthermore, the supply-side distribution line 14 is installed on the power supply side of the receiving-side distribution line 17. The SVR15 adjusts the voltage supplied to the supply-side distribution line 14. More specifically, the SVR15 detects the voltage supplied to the supply-side distribution line 14. And when the detected voltage is not within a predetermined range, the SVR15 adjusts the voltage so that this voltage falls within the predetermined range. The receiving and supplying substation 16 is equipment that converts the voltage supplied through the supply-side distribution line 14. Examples of the receiving and supplying substation 16 include a substation that converts the supplied voltage to 6600V and the like.

[0012] The receiving-side distribution line 17 is a line through which the current generated by applying the voltage converted by the receiving and supplying substation 16 flows. The receiving-side distribution line 17 is provided from the receiving and supplying substation 16 to the pole-mounted transformer 18. In this embodiment, when the supply-side distribution line 14 and the receiving-side distribution line 17 are described without particularly distinguishing them, they may simply be referred to as "electric wires". The pole-mounted transformer 18, which is an example of a distribution transformer, is equipment that converts the voltage supplied through the receiving-side distribution line 17. Examples of the pole-mounted transformer 18 include a transformer that converts a voltage of 6600V to 200V, a transformer that converts a voltage of 6600V to 100V, and the like.

[0013] The customer-side distribution line 19 is a line through which the current generated by applying the voltage converted by the pole-mounted transformer 18 flows. A plurality of customer-side distribution lines 19 are provided in the power system 10. More specifically, the customer-side distribution line 19 is provided for each power consumption facility 20. Each customer-side distribution line 19 is provided from the pole-mounted transformer 18 to the power consumption facility 20. As described above, the power system 10 is a system provided outside the power consumption facility 20 and is a system for distributing the generated power to power consumers. Therefore, the power system 10 can also be regarded as a distribution system.

[0014] In addition, a plurality of wire sensors 10S are provided in the power system 10. The wire sensors 10S are connected to the supply-side distribution line 14. More specifically, the wire sensors 10S are connected to a portion of the supply-side distribution line 14 on the power supply side of the SVR 15. Also, each of the wire sensors 10S is connected to each of the receiving and supplying-side distribution lines 17. In other words, the wire sensors 10S are provided for each of the supply-side distribution line 14 and the receiving and supplying-side distribution line 17.

[0015] The wire sensor 10S detects parameters related to the apparent power in the connected wire. The parameters related to the apparent power are parameters that affect the apparent power. Examples of the parameters related to the apparent power include, for example, apparent power, reactive power, reactive voltage, harmonic voltage, current, power factor, apparent power amount and reactive power amount in a predetermined period, etc. The current as a parameter related to the apparent power includes harmonic current. Also, the harmonic voltage and harmonic current may be harmonic voltages and harmonic currents of a specific order. Examples of the specific order include, for example, the 5th harmonic. Also, examples of the parameters related to the apparent power include, for example, the total harmonic distortion rate (THD: Total Harmonic Distortion) of the current and the THD of the voltage. Here, the THD of the current is calculated from the following formula (1). Also, the THD of the voltage is calculated from the following formula (2). TIFF0007835986000001.tif13170TIFF0007835986000002.tif13170

[0016] In the above formula (1), I1 is the fundamental wave current. Also, I n is the nth harmonic current. In the above formula (2), V1 is the fundamental wave voltage. Also, V n is the nth harmonic voltage. The wire sensor 10S detects the above parameters related to apparent power at predetermined intervals, for example. The predetermined interval can be any time, but for example, it is 60 seconds. When the wire sensor 10S detects the parameters related to apparent power, it transmits the information indicating the detected parameters, along with wire identification information that identifies the wire being detected, to the instruction server 40.

[0017] In the illustrated example, one supply-side substation 13 is shown in the power system 10, but the number of supply-side substations 13 is not limited to the one shown. The power system 10 may have two or more supply-side substations 13 that convert the same or different voltages. Furthermore, although the illustrated example shows one receiving substation 16 in the power system 10, the number of receiving substations 16 is not limited to the one shown. The power system 10 may have two or more receiving substations 16 that convert the same or different voltages. Furthermore, the number of supply-side distribution lines 14 and receiving-side distribution lines 17 is not limited to the illustrated example. The power system 10 may have more supply-side distribution lines 14 and receiving-side distribution lines 17 than those shown. In this case, a wire sensor 10S may be provided for each supply-side distribution line 14, or a wire sensor 10S may be provided for each receiving-side distribution line 17.

[0018] The power consumption facilities 20 are facilities that receive and consume electricity supplied from the power plant 11 through the customer-side distribution line 19. Each power consumption facility 20 is equipped with a heat pump system (HPS) 21 and load equipment 22.

[0019] The HPS21 adjusts temperature and humidity using power received from the power grid 10. The targets of adjustment by the HPS21 include the temperature and humidity of the space within the power consumption facility 20. Additionally, the targets of adjustment by the HPS21 include the temperature of liquids provided in the power consumption facility 20. In this embodiment, each HPS21 is equipped with an adjustment unit 211, a power converter 212, and an active filter (AF) 213.

[0020] As an example of a load, the adjustment unit 211 adjusts temperature and humidity. The adjustment unit 211 is equipped with a motor (not shown) that operates using the power received. The adjustment unit 211 is also equipped with a heat exchanger (not shown), through which heat is exchanged between the air and liquids inside the power consumption facility 20. Therefore, the adjustment unit 211 can also be considered as a heat exchanger. In the illustrated example, the adjustment unit 211 is located inside the power consumption facility 20, but this is not limited to that. The adjustment unit 211 may be located outside the power consumption facility 20.

[0021] As an example of a conversion unit, the power conversion device 212 includes an inverter (not shown) and a converter (not shown). The power conversion device 212 converts the received power into power consisting of a specific voltage and a specific frequency using the inverter and converter. The specific voltage and frequency are the voltage and frequency required for the operation of the motor provided in the adjustment unit 211. The power conversion device 212 supplies the converted power to the adjustment unit 211.

[0022] As an example of a control unit, AF213 aims to improve the power factor and reduce harmonics in the HPS21. As will be described in detail later, AF213 improves the power factor and reduces harmonics in the power path through which the power received by the power converter 212 in the HPS21 passes, by supplying current to this path. The path through which the power received by the power converter 212 in the HPS21 passes may be referred to as the power receiving path below.

[0023] Furthermore, in this embodiment, AF213 supplies current to the power system 10. By supplying current to the wires in the power system 10, AF213 adjusts the above-mentioned parameters relating to apparent power in these wires. In other words, AF213 in this embodiment adjusts the apparent power in the wires of the power distribution system. Adjusting apparent power means adjusting one or both of the active power and the reactive power. In other words, adjusting apparent power means adjusting at least one of the active power and the reactive power. The control unit AF213 is electrically connected in parallel with the power receiving path of the conversion unit, which converts the received power and supplies it to the load used for adjustment, and controls the apparent power in this power receiving path.

[0024] This section describes an example of how the HPS21 adjusts parameters related to apparent power in electric wires. When harmonic currents are present in an electric wire, the AF213 of the HPS21 reduces these harmonic currents by supplying a current with a phase that cancels out these harmonic currents to the wire. This section describes another example of how the HPS21 adjusts parameters related to apparent power in power lines. When reactive power is present in a power line, the AF213 of the HPS21 supplies current to the line, thereby reducing the reactive power in the line. Furthermore, as the reactive power in the line decreases, the power factor in the line improves. Thus, in this embodiment, the parameters relating to apparent power in the power lines of the power system 10 are adjusted using HPS21. Here, as the parameters relating to apparent power change, the apparent power also changes. Therefore, the adjustment of each of the above parameters relating to apparent power can be broadly considered as adjustment of apparent power. Hereafter, each parameter relating to apparent power that is the target of adjustment may be collectively referred to as "apparent power".

[0025] Examples of HPS21 include systems that regulate temperature and humidity. More specifically, HPS21 includes equipment used in HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) systems, such as air conditioning units, display cases that regulate internal temperature, refrigerators, freezers, and water heaters. When the HPS21 receives an instruction from the control server 30 to adjust the apparent power in the wire, it adjusts the apparent power in the wire according to the received instruction.

[0026] The load equipment 22 receives and consumes electricity supplied from the power plant 11 through the customer-side distribution line 19. Furthermore, in this embodiment, each power consumption facility 20 is provided with an adjustment unit sensor 211S, a converter sensor 212S, and an AF sensor 213S.

[0027] The adjustment unit sensor 211S detects information about the environment of the adjustment unit 211. More specifically, the adjustment unit sensor 211S detects the concentration of chloride ions in the space in which the adjustment unit 211 is installed. If the adjustment unit 211 is located outside the power consumption facility 20, the adjustment unit 211 detects the concentration of chloride ions outside the power consumption facility 20. The converter sensor 212S detects information related to the power converter 212. More specifically, the converter sensor 212S detects information related to the operation of the power converter 212 and information related to the environment surrounding the power converter 212. The information detected by the converter sensor 212S will be described in detail later.

[0028] The AF sensor 213S detects information related to the AF213. More specifically, the AF sensor 213S detects information related to the operation of the AF213 and information related to the environment of the AF213. The information regarding the operation of the AF213 and the environment of the AF213 will be described in detail later. Furthermore, the AF sensor 213S detects the current value of AF213. More specifically, the AF sensor 213S detects the current value supplied by AF213 to adjust the apparent power in the power receiving path of the power converter 212, the current value per unit time, or the current value over a predetermined time. When explaining the current value, the current value per unit time, and the current value over a predetermined time without making a particular distinction, they may simply be collectively referred to as "current value." In addition, the current value supplied by AF213 to adjust the apparent power in the power receiving path of the power converter 212 may be referred to as "usage amount" below.

[0029] The adjustment unit sensor 211S, the conversion device sensor 212S, and the AF sensor 213S detect the above-mentioned target information at predetermined intervals. The predetermined interval can be any time, but for example, it is 3 hours. When the adjustment unit sensor 211S, the conversion device sensor 212S, and the AF sensor 213S detect the target information, they transmit the detection value information, which indicates the detected value, to the control server 30, along with HPS identification information that identifies the HPS 21 that is the target of detection. Furthermore, a conversion device sensor 212S or an AF sensor 213S may be provided for each type of information to be detected.

[0030] Furthermore, while the illustrated example shows one power consumption facility 20 for each customer-side distribution line 19, this is not limited to this. Multiple power consumption facilities 20 may be provided for each customer-side distribution line 19. Also, the number of HPS 21s 21 and load devices 22 provided in the power consumption facility 20 is not limited to the illustrated example. A power consumption facility 20 may be equipped with more HPS 21s 21 and load devices 22 than those shown. In addition, there may be power consumption facilities 20 that are not equipped with HPS 21s 21 and load devices 22.

[0031] The control server 30 is a server device that controls the operation of the AF213. More specifically, the control server 30 controls the operation of the AF213 to adjust the apparent power in the wires of the power system 10. When the control server 30 receives an instruction from the instruction server 40 to adjust the apparent power in the wires, it determines the current value to be supplied to the AF213 of the HPS21 for this adjustment. The current value supplied to the AF213 to adjust the apparent power in the wires of the power system 10 may be referred to as the adjustment amount below.

[0032] In this embodiment, the control server 30 calculates an index related to the limits of the operation of the AF213. The index related to the limits of the operation of the AF213 is the lifespan of the AF213. The lifespan of the AF213 is the limit to which a predetermined operation can continue even if the AF213 changes over time. The predetermined operation is the operation of the AF213 to adjust the apparent power in the power lines of the power system 10. For example, the predetermined operation is the supply of current to adjust at least one of the active power and reactive power. Based on the fact that the AF213 is more likely to malfunction as it approaches its operational limit, the control server 30 determines the content of the operation by the AF213 in order to suppress the occurrence of malfunctions in the AF213. In other words, the control server 30 determines the content of the operation by the AF213 in order to suppress the occurrence of malfunctions in the AF213 based on the index calculated regarding the limits of the operation of the AF213. Then, it instructs the HPS 21 used for control to operate according to the determined content.

[0033] The instruction server 40 is a server device that instructs the adjustment of apparent power in the power lines of the power system 10. When the instruction server 40 obtains information detected by the power line sensor 10S from the power line sensor 10S, it identifies the power lines that need to have their apparent power adjusted from the obtained information. The instruction server 40 then sends an instruction to the control server 30 to adjust the apparent power in the power lines. An instruction to adjust apparent power means instructing the adjustment of either active power or reactive power, or both. In other words, an instruction to adjust apparent power means instructing the adjustment of at least one of active power or reactive power.

[0034] The instruction server 40 and the control server 30 are implemented, for example, by computers. The instruction server 40 and the control server 30 may be configured by a single computer, or they may be implemented by distributed processing using multiple computers. Alternatively, the instruction server 40 and the control server 30 may be implemented on virtual hardware provided by cloud computing. In the following, when the instruction server 40 and the control server 30 are not specifically distinguished, they may simply be referred to as "servers".

[0035] In this embodiment, the control server 30 and each device and instruction server 40 installed in each power consumption facility 20 are connected via a network (not shown). The instruction server 40 and each power line sensor 10S are also connected via a network (not shown). These networks only need to be capable of transmitting and receiving data. The communication lines used for transmitting and receiving data may be wired, wireless, or power line communication (PLC). Furthermore, the configuration may involve connections to communication destinations via multiple networks and communication lines.

[0036] Furthermore, the number of control servers 30 is not limited to the example shown. The power control system 1 may have two or more control servers 30. Also, a control server 30 may be provided for each power consumption facility 20, for example.

[0037] Figure 2 shows the hardware configuration of the control server 30 and the instruction server 40. The server is equipped with a CPU 31, ROM (Read Only Memory) 32, and RAM (Random Access Memory) 33. It also includes a storage device 35, which is composed of a hard disk drive and other components, for storing information. Furthermore, the server is equipped with a communication device 34 (communication interface) for communicating with the outside world. In addition, the server is equipped with input devices such as keyboards and mice used for inputting information, and display devices such as liquid crystal displays.

[0038] ROM 32 and storage device 35 store programs to be executed by the CPU 31. The CPU 31 reads the programs stored in ROM 32 and storage device 35, and uses RAM 33 as the working area to execute the programs. The CPU 31 executes programs stored in the ROM 32 and the storage device 35, thereby realizing the various functional units described later.

[0039] Here, the program executed by the CPU 31 can be provided to the server while stored on a computer-readable recording medium such as a magnetic recording medium (magnetic tape, magnetic disk, etc.), an optical recording medium (optical disk, etc.), a magneto-optical recording medium, or semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the program executed by the CPU 31 may be provided to the server using communication means such as the internet.

[0040] Figure 3 shows the functional configuration of HPS21. As described above, the HPS21 is equipped with an adjustment unit 211, a power converter 212, and an AF213. The HPS21 is also equipped with a power receiving path 214 for the power converter 212. In this embodiment, AF213 is electrically connected in parallel with the power converter 212 to the power receiving path 214 of the power converter 212. AF213 adjusts the apparent power in the power receiving path 214 by supplying current to the power receiving path 214 of the power converter 212.

[0041] Furthermore, the power converter 212 is equipped with a capacitor 2121 that charges and discharges, and a switch unit 2122 that switches between charging and discharging the capacitor 2121. In the illustrated example, there is one capacitor 2121 and one switch unit 2122, but the capacitor 2121 and the switch unit 2122 are provided in the inverter (not shown) and converter (not shown) of the power converter 212, respectively. Furthermore, the AF213 is equipped with a capacitor 2131 that charges and discharges, and a switch unit 2132 that switches between charging and discharging the capacitor 2131.

[0042] Figure 4 shows the functional configuration of the control server 30. The control server 30 is equipped with an acquisition unit 301, a storage unit 302, an index calculation unit 303, an extraction unit 304, an adjustment amount calculation unit 305, and a transmission unit 306. As an example of an acquisition method, the acquisition unit 301 acquires information transmitted to the control server 30 and information input to the control server 30. The information acquired by the acquisition unit 301 is stored in the storage unit 302. The memory unit 302 stores information. The information stored in the memory unit 302 will be described in detail later.

[0043] The index calculation unit 303 calculates an index related to the limits of HPS21's operation. More specifically, the index calculation unit 303 calculates an index related to the limits of HPS21's operation for temperature and humidity adjustment, and an index related to the limits of AF213's operation. The index calculation unit 303 calculates the index using information detected by the adjustment unit sensor 211S, the converter sensor 212S, and the AF sensor 213S.

[0044] The extraction unit 304 extracts candidates for HPS21 to be used for adjusting apparent power in electric wires. The extraction unit 304 extracts from among the HPS21s provided in the power control system 1 that receive power through the electric wire to be adjusted as candidates for HPS21 to be used for adjusting this electric wire.

[0045] The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 calculates the adjustment amount for AF213. More specifically, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 calculates the adjustment amount for AF213 based on the index calculated by the index calculation unit 303 for AF213. If AF213 is operated when it is nearing its operating limit, a malfunction may occur in AF213. Furthermore, increasing the load on AF213, such as by increasing the current supplied to AF213, makes it more likely for AF213 to malfunction. If AF213 malfunctions, it will be unable to adjust the apparent power in the power receiving path 214, which may affect the temperature and humidity adjustment by HPS21. Therefore, in this embodiment, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 calculates an adjustment amount based on an indicator related to the operating limit of AF213 in order to suppress the occurrence of a malfunction in AF213. As an example of an output means, the transmission unit 306 transmits information to the instruction server 40 and HPS21.

[0046] Figure 5 shows the HPS management table. The HPS management table is used to manage HPS21. The HPS management table is stored in the storage unit 302. In the HPS management table, the "HPS" field displays HPS identification information. The "A" through "J" appended to "HPS21" are information used to identify which of the multiple HPS21s it is.

[0047] Furthermore, the HPS management table displays wire identification information under "Through Wires". The wire identification information shown under "Through Wires" is the wire identification information of the wires that were routed through in the supply of power to the HPS. The "A" and "B" attached to "17" under "Through Wires" are information used to identify which of the multiple receiving-side distribution lines 17 it is, respectively. The "through wires" in the HPS management table are pre-configured by the user of power control system 1.

[0048] Furthermore, the HPS management table shows the operating time of HPS21 under "Operating Time". "Op1" to "Op10" shown under "Power Converter" in "Operating Time" indicate the operating time of the associated power converter 212 of the HPS, respectively. The operating time of the power converter 212 is information detected by the converter sensor 212S as information related to the operation of the power converter 212. Also, "Oa1" to "Oa10" shown under "AF" in "Operating Time" indicate the operating time of the associated AF213 of the HPS, respectively. The operating time of AF213 is information detected by the AF sensor 213S as information related to the operation of AF213. When the acquisition unit 301 acquires information indicating the operating time of the power converter 212 from the converter sensor 212S, it writes the acquired information to the "operating time" of the "power converter" associated with the target "HPS". Also, when the acquisition unit 301 acquires information indicating the operating time of the AF 213 from the AF sensor 213S, it writes the acquired information to the "operating time" of the "AF" associated with the target "HPS".

[0049] Furthermore, the HPS management table shows the number of operations for HPS21 under "Operation Count". "Np1" to "Np10" shown under "Power Converter" in "Operation Count" indicate the number of times the switch unit 2122 of the associated HPS power converter 212 has operated. This number of operations represents the number of times the switch unit 2122 has switched between charging and discharging the capacitor 2121. The number of times the switch unit 2122 has operated is information detected by the converter sensor 212S as information related to the operation of the power converter 212. Additionally, "Na1" to "Na10" shown under "AF" in "Operation Count" indicate the number of times the switch unit 2132 of the associated HPS AF213 has operated. This number of operations represents the number of times the switch unit 2132 has switched between charging and discharging the capacitor 2131. Furthermore, the number of times the switch unit 2132 operated is information detected by the AF sensor 213S as information related to the operation of AF213. When the acquisition unit 301 acquires information from the power converter sensor 212S indicating the number of times the switch unit 2122 of the power converter 212 has operated, it writes the acquired information to the "Operation Count" of the "Power Converter" associated with the target "HPS". Also, when the acquisition unit 301 acquires information from the AF sensor 213S indicating the number of times the switch unit 2132 of the AF 213 has operated, it writes the acquired information to the "Operation Count" of the "AF" associated with the target "HPS".

[0050] Furthermore, in the HPS management table, the "Energy Consumption" column shows the amount of energy accumulated in HPS21. The "Ep1" to "Ep10" shown under "Power Converter" in "Energy Consumption" represent information indicating the amount of energy accumulated in the capacitor 2121 of the associated HPS power converter 212. The amount of energy accumulated in capacitor 2121 is information detected by the converter sensor 212S as information related to the operation of power converter 212. In addition, the "Ea1" to "Ea10" shown under "AF" in "Energy Consumption" represent information indicating the amount of energy accumulated in the capacitor 2131 of the associated HPS AF213. The amount of energy accumulated in capacitor 2131 is information detected by the AF sensor 213S as information related to the operation of AF213. When the acquisition unit 301 acquires information from the power converter sensor 212S indicating the amount of energy accumulated in the capacitor 2121 of the power converter 212, it writes the acquired information to the "energy amount" of the "power converter" associated with the target "HPS". Also, when the acquisition unit 301 acquires information from the AF sensor 213S indicating the amount of energy accumulated in the capacitor 2131 of the AF 213, it writes the acquired information to the "energy amount" of the "AF" associated with the target "HPS".

[0051] Furthermore, in the HPS management table, the ambient temperature of HPS21 is shown under "Ambient Temperature". "Tp1" to "Tp10" shown under "Power Converter" in "Ambient Temperature" indicate the ambient temperature of the capacitor 2121 in the associated power converter 212 of the HPS, respectively. The ambient temperature of the capacitor 2121 is information detected by the converter sensor 212S as information about the environment of the power converter 212. Also, "Ta1" to "Ta10" shown under "AF" in "Ambient Temperature" indicate the ambient temperature of the capacitor 2131 in the associated AF213 of the HPS, respectively. The ambient temperature of the capacitor 2131 is information detected by the AF sensor 213S as information about the operation of AF213. When the acquisition unit 301 acquires information indicating the ambient temperature around the capacitor 2121 in the power converter 212 from the converter sensor 212S, it writes the acquired information to the "ambient temperature" of the "power converter" associated with the target "HPS". Also, when the acquisition unit 301 acquires information indicating the ambient temperature around the capacitor 2131 in the AF 213 from the AF sensor 213S, it writes the acquired information to the "ambient temperature" of the "AF" associated with the target "HPS".

[0052] Furthermore, the HPS management table shows the chloride ion concentration in the space where the HPS21 adjustment unit 211 is installed under "Chloride Ion Concentration". "C1" to "C10" shown under "Chloride Ion Concentration" are information indicating the chloride ion concentration in the space where the corresponding HPS adjustment unit 211 is installed. The chloride ion concentration in the space where the adjustment unit 211 is installed is information detected by the adjustment unit sensor 211S as information regarding the environment of the adjustment unit 211. When the acquisition unit 301 acquires information indicating the chloride ion concentration in the space where the adjustment unit 211 is located from the adjustment unit sensor 211S, it writes the acquired information to the "chloride ion concentration" associated with the target "HPS".

[0053] Furthermore, in the HPS management table, the "Remaining Time" column shows the remaining time until the HPS21 can operate to its limit. The "HPS" column in "Remaining Time" shows the remaining time until the HPS21 can operate to its limit for temperature and humidity control. The information shown in "Remaining Time" for "HPS" is the result of calculation by the index calculation unit 303 as an indicator of the HPS21's operating limit. Also, the "AF" column in "Remaining Time" shows the remaining time until the AF213 can operate to its limit. The information shown in "Remaining Time" for "AF" is the result of calculation by the index calculation unit 303 as an indicator of the AF213's operating limit.

[0054] Furthermore, the HPS management table shows the current value that the AF213 of HPS21 can supply to adjust the apparent power in the wire under "Adjustable Amount". The current value that the AF213 can supply to adjust the apparent power in the wire may be referred to as the "Adjustable Amount" below. In this embodiment, the control server 30 calculates the adjustable amount for the target AF213 each time it obtains information indicating the usage amount from the AF sensor 213S.

[0055] An example of the method used by the control server 30 to calculate the adjustable amount is described below. The control server 30 calculates the adjustable amount for the AF213 by subtracting the latest usage amount for the AF213 from the current value capacity of the target AF213. The current value capacity of the AF213 is the maximum current value that the AF213 can generate. The information described in the HPS21 specification may be used as the current value capacity of the AF213. The control server 30 writes the calculated adjustable amount to the "adjustable amount" associated with the target "HPS".

[0056] An example of the contents of the HPS management table is explained below. The "HPS" identified from "21A" is associated with "17A" as the "transit cable", "Op1" as the "operating time" of the "power converter", and "Oa1" as the "operating time" of the "AF". In addition, "Np1" is associated with the "number of operations" of the "power converter", "Na1" is associated with the "number of operations" of the "AF", "Ep1" is associated with the "energy" of the "power converter", and "Ea1" is associated with the "energy" of the "AF". Furthermore, "Tp1" is associated with the "ambient temperature" of the "power converter", "Ta1" is associated with the "ambient temperature" of the "AF", and "C1" is associated with the "chloride ion concentration". In addition, "20000" is associated with the "remaining time" of the "HPS", "10000" is associated with the "remaining time" of the "AF", and "60" is associated with the "adjustable amount".

[0057] (Processing by the indicator calculation unit 303) Next, the processing of the indicator calculation unit 303 will be explained. The indicator calculation unit 303 uses the information detected by the adjustment unit sensor 211S and the information detected by the conversion device sensor 212S to calculate the remaining time until the HPS 21 can operate to adjust temperature and humidity. The remaining time until the HPS 21 can operate to adjust temperature and humidity may be referred to as the HPS remaining time below.

[0058] The index calculation unit 303 may calculate the remaining HPS time based on the fact that the limit to which HPS 21 can operate is determined according to the operating time of capacitor 2121 of the power converter 212. More specifically, the longer the operating time of capacitor 2121, the shorter the calculated remaining HPS time may be. The index calculation unit 303 may also calculate the remaining HPS time based on the fact that the limit to which HPS 21 can operate is determined according to the number of times the switch unit 2122 of the power converter 212 has operated. More specifically, the more times the switch unit 2122 has operated, the shorter the calculated remaining HPS time may be. The index calculation unit 303 may also calculate the remaining HPS time based on the fact that the limit to which HPS 21 can operate is determined according to the amount of power accumulated in capacitor 2121 of the power converter 212. More specifically, the larger the amount of power accumulated in capacitor 2121, the shorter the calculated remaining HPS time may be. Furthermore, the index calculation unit 303 may calculate the remaining HPS time based on the fact that the limit to which the HPS 21 can operate is determined according to the ambient temperature around the capacitor 2121 of the power converter 212. More specifically, the higher the ambient temperature around the capacitor 2121, the shorter the calculated remaining HPS time may be. Also, the index calculation unit 303 may calculate the remaining HPS time based on the fact that the limit to which the HPS 21 can operate is determined according to the concentration of chloride ions in the space in which the adjustment unit 211 is provided. More specifically, the index calculation unit 303 may calculate the degree of oxidation of the heat exchanger (not shown) provided in the adjustment unit 211 from the concentration of chloride ions in the space in which the adjustment unit 211 is provided. And, the higher the calculated degree of oxidation, the shorter the calculated remaining time until the limit to which the adjustment unit 211 can operate may be. In other words, the index calculation unit 303 may calculate the remaining HPS time shorter the higher the concentration of chloride ions in the space in which the adjustment unit 211 is provided.

[0059] Furthermore, the index calculation unit 303 may calculate the remaining time until the adjustment unit 211 can operate based on the concentration of chloride ions in the space where the adjustment unit 211 is installed. Alternatively, the index calculation unit 303 may calculate the remaining time until the capacitor 2121 can operate based on the operating time of the power converter 212, the ambient temperature around the capacitor 2121 of the power converter 212, and the amount of energy accumulated in the capacitor 2121. The index calculation unit 303 may also calculate the remaining time until the switch unit 2122 can operate based on the number of times the switch unit 2122 of the power converter 212 has operated. The shortest of the remaining time until the adjustment unit 211 can operate, the remaining time until the capacitor 2121 can operate, and the remaining time until the switch unit 2122 can operate may be determined as the HPS remaining time. Furthermore, the index calculation unit 303 may calculate the HPS remaining time taking into account the remaining time for AF213, which will be described later.

[0060] Furthermore, the indicator calculation unit 303 uses the information detected by the AF sensor 213S to calculate the remaining time until the AF 213 can operate. The remaining time until the AF 213 can operate may be referred to as the remaining AF time below. The index calculation unit 303 may calculate the remaining AF time based on the fact that the limit to which AF213 can operate is determined according to the operating time of capacitor 2131 of AF213. More specifically, the longer the operating time of capacitor 2131, the shorter the calculated remaining AF time may be. The index calculation unit 303 may also calculate the remaining AF time based on the fact that the limit to which AF213 can operate is determined according to the number of times the switch unit 2132 of AF213 has operated. More specifically, the more times the switch unit 2132 has operated, the shorter the calculated remaining AF time may be. The index calculation unit 303 may also calculate the remaining AF time based on the fact that the limit to which AF213 can operate is determined according to the amount of power accumulated in capacitor 2131 of AF213. More specifically, the larger the amount of power accumulated in capacitor 2131, the shorter the calculated remaining AF time may be. Furthermore, the index calculation unit 303 may calculate the remaining AF time based on the fact that the limit to which AF213 can operate is determined according to the ambient temperature around the capacitor 2131 of AF213. More specifically, the higher the ambient temperature around the capacitor 2131, the shorter the calculated remaining AF time may be.

[0061] Furthermore, the index calculation unit 303 may calculate the remaining AF time from the concentration of chloride ions in the space where the adjustment unit 211 is installed. Here, the higher the concentration of chloride ions in the space where the adjustment unit 211 is installed, the more susceptible the adjustment unit 211 is to salt damage. Also, if the adjustment unit 211 is damaged by salt, the load on the power converter 212 to control the adjustment unit 211 may increase. Consequently, the load on the AF 213 to adjust the apparent power in the power receiving path 214 increases, which may shorten the remaining time until the AF 213 can operate. From this perspective, the index calculation unit 303 may calculate the remaining AF time to be shorter the higher the concentration of chloride ions in the space where the adjustment unit 211 is installed.

[0062] Thus, the information detected by the AF sensor 213S is information that affects the limits of operation by the AF 213. In the following, the operating time of the capacitor 2131 of the AF 213, the number of times the switch unit 2132 of the AF 213 has operated, the amount of power accumulated in the capacitor 2131 of the AF 213, and the temperature around the capacitor 2131 of the AF 213 may be collectively referred to as AF information. AF information is considered as control unit information related to the limits of operation by the AF 213. In a broad sense, the concentration of chloride ions in the space where the adjustment unit 211 is located can also be considered as control unit information. Furthermore, the index calculated by the index calculation unit 303 regarding the limits of operation by the AF 213 is also considered as control unit information related to the limits of operation by the AF 213. Therefore, the index calculation unit 303 can also be considered as a means of acquiring control unit information.

[0063] The indicator calculation unit 303 calculates the remaining HPS time and AF time at predetermined intervals. The predetermined interval can be any time, but for example, it is 3 hours. When the indicator calculation unit 303 calculates the remaining HPS time, it writes the calculation result to the "remaining time" of the "HPS" associated with the target "HPS" in the HPS management table. Similarly, when the indicator calculation unit 303 calculates the remaining AF time, it writes the calculation result to the "remaining time" of the "AF" associated with the target "HPS" in the HPS management table.

[0064] (Processing by the adjustment amount calculation unit 305) Next, the processing of the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 will be explained. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 calculates the adjustment amount based on the calculation result of the index calculation unit 303. More specifically, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 calculates the adjustment amount for AF213 based on the remaining AF time calculated by the index calculation unit 303.

[0065] The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 may calculate a smaller adjustment amount for AF213 the shorter the remaining AF time. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 may also decide which parameter related to apparent power in the wire to adjust based on the remaining AF time. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 may also decide whether or not to have AF213 adjust the apparent power in the wire based on the remaining AF time. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 may also decide whether or not to have AF213 adjust the apparent power in the HPS21 power receiving path 214 based on the remaining AF time. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 may also determine the operation of AF213 based on the relationship between the remaining AF time and the remaining HPS time.

[0066] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of the operation determination process. The operation determination process is the process in which the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines the content of the operation of AF213. In this embodiment, when a request for adjustment of apparent power in a specific wire of the power system 10 is sent from the instruction server 40 to the control server 30, the operation determination process is started. The request sent from the instruction server 40 to the control server 30 includes wire identification information that identifies the wire to be adjusted. The wire to be adjusted may be referred to as the wire to be adjusted below. Furthermore, in the following example, the receiving distribution line 17 of "17A" is assumed to be the line to be adjusted. Also, the request for apparent power adjustment on the line to be adjusted includes a request for power factor improvement and a request for harmonic reduction. Additionally, the current value required to improve the power factor on the line to be adjusted is assumed to be "100". The current value required to improve the power factor on the line to be adjusted may be referred to as the required adjustment amount below.

[0067] The extraction unit 304 extracts candidates for HPS21 to be used for adjusting apparent power in the wire to be adjusted. More specifically, the extraction unit 304 extracts HPS21 associated with the wire to be adjusted (step (hereinafter referred to as "S") 101). The extraction unit 304 refers to the HPS management table (see Figure 5). Then, it extracts HPS21 identified from the "HPS" associated with the wire identification information of the wire to be adjusted as "via wire". In this example, five HPS21s, labeled "21A" through "21E," are associated with the wire to be adjusted, "17A." Therefore, the extraction unit 304 extracts the five HPS21s, labeled "21A" through "21E."

[0068] The extraction unit 304 further extracts HPS21 from the extracted HPS21. More specifically, it extracts the HPS21 with the largest adjustable amount (S102). The extraction unit 304 extracts the "HPS" associated with the largest "adjustable amount" in the HPS management table. In this example, among the five HPS21 samples extracted in step 101, the HPS21 labeled "21A" shows the highest "adjustable amount" of "60". Therefore, the extraction unit 304 extracts the HPS21 labeled "21A". The HPS21 extracted in step 102 may be referred to as extracted HPS21 below. The AF213 provided in the extracted HPS21 may be referred to as extracted AF213 below.

[0069] The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines whether the remaining AF time of the extracted HPS 21 is equal to or greater than the HPS adjustment threshold (S103). The HPS adjustment threshold is a threshold used to determine whether or not to allow the extracted AF 213 to adjust the apparent power in the power receiving path 214 of the extracted HPS 21. In this embodiment, even when the extracted AF 213 adjusts the apparent power in the power receiving path 214 of the extracted HPS 21, the HPS adjustment threshold is set from the viewpoint of ensuring that the remaining AF time does not become excessively short relative to the remaining HPS time. In this embodiment, the HPS adjustment threshold is set to one-third of the remaining HPS time. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines whether or not the remaining AF time is equal to or greater than the HPS adjustment threshold based on the relationship between the "remaining time" of "AF" and the "remaining time" of "HPS" associated with the extracted HPS 21 in the HPS management table. In this example, the remaining time for AF in HPS21 of "21A," which is "10000," is half of the remaining time for HPS, which is "20000." Therefore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining AF time of the extracted HPS21 is equal to or greater than the HPS adjustment threshold (YES in S103).

[0070] If the remaining AF time is equal to or greater than the HPS adjustment threshold, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines whether the remaining AF time of the extracted HPS 21 is equal to or greater than the wire adjustment threshold (S104). The wire adjustment threshold is a threshold used to determine whether or not to allow the extracted AF 213 to adjust the apparent power of the wire to be adjusted. In this embodiment, the wire adjustment threshold is set from the viewpoint of suppressing malfunctions in the extracted AF 213 when the extracted AF 213 is allowed to adjust the apparent power of the wire to be adjusted. In this embodiment, the wire adjustment threshold is set to "5000". The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines whether or not the remaining AF time is equal to or greater than the wire adjustment threshold from the "remaining time" of "AF" associated with the extracted HPS 21 in the HPS management table. In this example, the remaining time for AF in HPS21 of "21A," which is "10000," is greater than "5000." Therefore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining AF time of the extracted HPS21 is greater than or equal to the wire adjustment threshold (YES in S104).

[0071] If the remaining AF time is greater than or equal to the wire adjustment threshold, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines whether the remaining AF time of the extracted HPS21 is greater than or equal to the power factor adjustment threshold (S105). The power factor adjustment threshold is a threshold used to determine whether or not to allow the extracted AF213 to adjust the power factor of the wire to be adjusted. In this embodiment, the power factor adjustment threshold is set from the viewpoint of suppressing malfunctions in the extracted AF213 when the extracted AF213 is allowed to adjust the power factor of the wire to be adjusted. In this embodiment, the power factor adjustment threshold is set to "7000", which is greater than the wire adjustment threshold. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines whether the remaining AF time is greater than or equal to the power factor adjustment threshold from the "remaining time" of "AF" associated with the extracted HPS21 in the HPS management table. In this example, the remaining time for AF in HPS21 of "21A," which is "10000," is greater than "7000." Therefore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining AF time of the extracted HPS21 is greater than or equal to the power factor adjustment threshold (YES in S105).

[0072] If the remaining AF time is greater than or equal to the power factor adjustment threshold, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines whether the remaining AF time of the extracted HPS21 is greater than or equal to the limit threshold (S106). The limit threshold is a threshold used to determine whether or not to limit the adjustment amount when the extracted AF213 is to adjust the power factor of the wire to be adjusted. In this embodiment, the limit threshold is set from the viewpoint of suppressing malfunctions in the extracted AF213 when the adjustment amount is not limited. In this embodiment, the limit threshold is set to "9000", which is greater than the power factor adjustment threshold. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines whether the remaining AF time is greater than or equal to the limit threshold from the "remaining time" of "AF" associated with the extracted HPS21 in the HPS management table. In this example, the remaining time for AF in HPS21 of "21A," which is "10000," is greater than "9000." Therefore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining AF time of the extracted HPS21 is greater than or equal to the limit threshold (YES in S106).

[0073] If the remaining AF time is greater than or equal to the limit threshold, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines the adjustable amount for the extracted AF213 as the adjustment amount for the extracted AF213 (S107). In this example, the adjustment amount for extraction AF213 of "21A" is determined to be "60", which is the "adjustable amount".

[0074] Furthermore, if the remaining AF time is less than the limit threshold (NO in S106), the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines a value less than the adjustable amount of the extracted AF 213 as the adjustment amount for the extracted AF 213 (S108). In this embodiment, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines half of the adjustable amount of the extracted AF 213 as the adjustment amount.

[0075] Furthermore, if the remaining AF time is less than the power factor adjustment threshold (NO in S105), the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 does not have the extracted AF213 adjust the power factor of the wire to be adjusted, but instead has the extracted AF213 adjust the harmonics of the wire to be adjusted (S109).

[0076] Furthermore, if the remaining AF time is less than the wire adjustment threshold (NO in S104), the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 does not allow the extracted AF213 to adjust the apparent power in the wire to be adjusted. However, even in this case, if the power converter 212 of the extracted HPS21 is operating, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 allows the extracted AF213 to adjust the apparent power in the power receiving path 214. In other words, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 does not allow the extracted AF213 to adjust the apparent power in the wire to be adjusted, while allowing the extracted AF213 to adjust the apparent power in the HPS21 (S110).

[0077] Furthermore, if the remaining AF time is less than the HPS adjustment threshold (NO in S103), the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 does not allow the extracted AF213 to adjust the apparent power in the wire to be adjusted. Also, even if the power converter 212 of the extracted HPS21 is operating, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 does not allow the extracted AF213 to adjust the apparent power in the power receiving path 214. In other words, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 does not allow either the apparent power in the wire to be adjusted or the apparent power in the extracted HPS21 to be adjusted (S111).

[0078] When any of steps 107 to 111 is completed, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines whether it has responded to all requests from the instruction server 40 (S112). In this embodiment, if the request includes power factor adjustment for the wire to be adjusted, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines whether it has responded to the request for power factor adjustment for the wire to be adjusted by checking whether the total value of the determined adjustment amounts is equal to or greater than the required adjustment amount. Also, if the request includes harmonic adjustment for the wire to be adjusted, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines whether it has responded to the request for harmonic adjustment for the wire to be adjusted by checking whether it has determined the HPS21 to be used for harmonic adjustment for the wire to be adjusted. In this example, the total adjustment amount determined by the adjustment amount calculation unit 305, which is "60", is less than the required adjustment amount of "100". Furthermore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 has not determined the HPS21 to be used for adjusting the harmonics in the power line to be adjusted. Therefore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that it is not responding to the request from the instruction server 40 (NO in S112).

[0079] If the request from the instruction server 40 is not met, the process from step 102 onwards is repeated. Here, the extraction unit 304 extracts again, targeting the remaining HPS21 after excluding the HPS21 that were already extracted in step 102. In this example, the extraction unit 304 extracts HPS21 "21B", which is the next largest "adjustable amount" after HPS21 "21A" extracted in step 101, and which is indicated as "50". Furthermore, since the remaining time for AF in HPS21 of "21B," which is "8000," is greater than one-third of the remaining time for HPS, which is "18000," the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining time for AF is equal to or greater than the HPS adjustment threshold (YES in S103). Furthermore, since the remaining time for "AF" in HPS21 for "21B" is greater than "5000", the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining time for AF is greater than or equal to the wire adjustment threshold (YES in S104).

[0080] Furthermore, since the remaining time for AF in HPS21 for "21B" is greater than "7000", the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining AF time is equal to or greater than the power factor adjustment threshold (YES in S105). On the other hand, since the remaining time for AF in HPS21 of "21B" is less than "9000", the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining AF time is below the limit threshold (NO in S106). In this case, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines "25," which is half of the "adjustable amount" of HPS21 for "21B," as the adjustment amount for HPS21 for "21B" (S108). As a result, the total value of the adjustment amounts determined by the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 becomes "60 + 25 = 85". This total value is less than the required adjustment amount of "100". Furthermore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 has not determined the HPS21 to be used for adjusting the harmonics in the power line to be adjusted. Therefore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that it is not responding to the request from the instruction server 40 (NO in S112), and the processing from step 102 onwards is repeated.

[0081] The extraction unit 304 extracts the HPS21 labeled "21C," which is the next most abundant "adjustable amount" after "21B" HPS21 extracted in step 101, and is indicated as "45" (S102). Furthermore, since the remaining time for AF in HPS21 of "21C," which is "6000," is greater than one-third of the remaining time for HPS, which is "16000," the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining time for AF is equal to or greater than the HPS adjustment threshold (YES in S103). Furthermore, since the remaining time for "AF" in HPS21 for "21C" is greater than "5000", the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining time for AF is greater than or equal to the wire adjustment threshold (YES in S104).

[0082] On the other hand, the remaining time for AF in HPS21 for "21C" is less than "7000", so the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining AF time is less than the power factor adjustment threshold (NO in S105). In this case, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 decides to have the HPS21 of "21C" adjust the harmonics in the wire to be adjusted, rather than adjusting the power factor in the wire to be adjusted (S109). This determines the HPS21 used to adjust the harmonics in the power line to be adjusted. On the other hand, the total value of the adjustment amount determined by the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 is "85", which is less than the required adjustment amount of "100". Therefore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that it is not responding to the request from the instruction server 40 (NO in S112), and the processing from step 102 onwards is repeated.

[0083] The extraction unit 304 extracts the HPS21 labeled "21E," which is the next most abundant "adjustable amount" after the "21C" HPS21 extracted in step 101, and which is labeled "40" (S102). On the other hand, the remaining time for AF in HPS21 of "21E," which is "500," is less than one-third of the remaining time for HPS, which is "8000." Therefore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining time for AF is less than the HPS adjustment threshold (NO in S103). In this case, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 does not allow the HPS21 of "21E" to adjust the apparent power in the wire to be adjusted. Furthermore, even when the power converter 212 in the HPS21 of "21E" is operating, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 does not allow the AF213 to adjust the apparent power in the power receiving path 214 (S111). As a result, the total value of the adjustment amounts determined by the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 is still "85," which is less than the required adjustment amount of "100." Therefore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that it is not responding to the request from the instruction server 40 (NO in S112), and the processing from step 102 onwards is repeated.

[0084] The extraction unit 304 extracts the HPS21 labeled "21D," which is the next largest "adjustable amount" after the HPS21 labeled "21E" extracted in step 101, and which is labeled "30" (S102). Furthermore, since the remaining time for AF in HPS21 of "21D," which is "7000," is greater than one-third of the remaining time for HPS, which is "17000," the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining AF time is equal to or greater than the HPS adjustment threshold (YES in S103). Furthermore, since the remaining time for "AF" in HPS21 for "21D" is greater than "5000", the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining AF time is greater than or equal to the wire adjustment threshold (YES in S104).

[0085] Furthermore, since the remaining time for AF in HPS21 of "21D" is "7000", the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining AF time is equal to or greater than the power factor adjustment threshold (YES in S105). On the other hand, the remaining time for AF in HPS21 of "21D" is less than "9000", so the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that the remaining AF time is below the limit threshold (NO in S106). In this case, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines "15," which is half of the "adjustable amount" of HPS21 for "21D," as the adjustment amount (S108). As a result, the total value of the adjustment amounts determined by the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 becomes "100," reaching the required adjustment amount of "100." Also, as mentioned above, the HPS21 to be used for adjusting the harmonics in the power line to be adjusted has been determined. Therefore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines that it has responded to all requests from the instruction server 40 (YES in S112).

[0086] The transmitting unit 306 sends information indicating the content of the operation determined in the operation determination process to the HPS21, which is the target of the instruction, as an operation instruction. When the HPS21 receives the instruction, it operates according to the content of the instruction it received. In addition, if the HPS21 receives an instruction not to perform adjustments, it will comply with the instruction and stop performing adjustments.

[0087] In this way, during the operation determination process, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines the content of the operation performed by AF213 according to the lifespan of AF213, thereby suppressing malfunctions in AF213. Furthermore, even if there is no request for adjustment of apparent power in the power lines, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 may, at predetermined intervals, determine whether the remaining AF time for each HPS 21 is equal to or greater than the HPS adjustment threshold. Based on the determination result, it may then decide whether or not to have the AF 213 adjust the apparent power in the power receiving path 214 of the HPS 21.

[0088] As described above, in this embodiment, the acquisition unit 301 acquires AF information. The index calculation unit 303 calculates an index related to the limits of operation by AF213 based on the AF information. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 then controls the operation of AF213 based on the calculation result of the index calculation unit 303. In other words, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 controls the operation of AF213 based on the AF information. Therefore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 can also be considered as a control means for controlling the operation of AF213. In this case, the operation of AF213 can be controlled based on the limits of AF213's operation.

[0089] In particular, in this embodiment, the AF213 is capable of adjusting the apparent power in the electric wire. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 controls the operation of the AF213 for adjusting the apparent power in the electric wire to be adjusted, based on the AF information. In this case, the adjustment of apparent power in the wire being adjusted is determined according to the limits of operation by AF213. Therefore, compared to the case where the operation of AF213 is controlled independently of the limits of operation by AF213, the apparent power in the wire being adjusted can be adjusted with adjustments that are appropriate to the limits of operation by AF213.

[0090] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the AF information includes information about the operation of AF213 that affects the limits of its operation, and information about the environment of AF213. In this case, compared to when the operation of AF213 is controlled based on information unrelated to AF213, AF213 can be operated in a manner that is more appropriate to AF213.

[0091] In this embodiment, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 controls the operation of the AF213 based on the relationship between the remaining HPS time and the remaining AF time. In this case, compared to when the operation of AF213 is controlled independently of the remaining HPS time, the AF213 can be operated in such a way that the remaining HPS time and the remaining AF time have a suitable relationship.

[0092] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 limits the operation of the AF213 for adjusting apparent power in the wire to be adjusted if the remaining AF time is less than the limit threshold. In this case, compared to the case where the operation of AF213 is not restricted even if the remaining AF time is below the limit threshold, malfunctions in AF213 can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the impact on the operation of HPS21, which is used for temperature and humidity control.

[0093] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 restricts the operation of AF213 for adjusting apparent power in the wire to be adjusted when the remaining AF time is greater than or equal to the HPS adjustment threshold and less than the wire adjustment threshold, while not restricting the operation of AF213 for adjusting apparent power in the power receiving path 214. Then, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 restricts both the operation of AF213 for adjusting apparent power in the wire to be adjusted and the operation of AF213 for adjusting apparent power in the power receiving path 214 when the remaining AF time is less than the HPS adjustment threshold and less than the wire adjustment threshold.

[0094] If AF213 is functioning correctly, and does not adjust the apparent power in the power receiving path 214, the operation of HPS21 may be affected, although HPS21 can still adjust temperature and humidity. On the other hand, if AF213 malfunctions, this malfunction may significantly impact HPS21's ability to adjust temperature and humidity. Therefore, in this embodiment, the limitations on the operation of AF213 to suppress malfunctions are controlled in stages according to the limits of AF213's operation, thereby suppressing the impact on the operation of HPS21.

[0095] In this embodiment, the acquisition unit 301 acquires information on the chloride ion concentration in the space where the adjustment unit 211 is located. The index calculation unit 303 calculates the remaining AF time based on the chloride ion concentration. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 then controls the operation of the AF 213 based on the remaining AF time. In other words, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 controls the operation of the AF 213 based on information on the chloride ion concentration in the space where the adjustment unit 211 is located. In this case, the operation of AF213 can be controlled, taking into account the influence of the environment of the adjustment unit 211 on the limits of AF213's operation.

[0096] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the adjustment of apparent power in the wire to be adjusted includes the adjustment of the power factor in the wire to be adjusted and the adjustment of harmonics in the wire to be adjusted. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 then determines the target to be adjusted by AF213 in the wire to be adjusted based on the AF information. In this case, the target of adjustment by the AF213 is determined according to the limits of the AF213's operation. Therefore, compared to the case where the target of adjustment by the AF213 is determined independently of the limits of the AF213's operation, it is possible to appropriately determine the target of adjustment by the AF213 in the target wire.

[0097] In particular, in this embodiment, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 adjusts the power factor in the wire to be adjusted to AF213 if the remaining AF time is equal to or greater than the power factor adjustment threshold, and adjusts the harmonics in the wire to be adjusted to AF213 if the remaining AF time is less than the power factor adjustment threshold and equal to or greater than the wire adjustment threshold. When the adjustment target for the wire being adjusted is the power factor, the load on AF213 tends to be larger than when the adjustment target is harmonics. Therefore, in this embodiment, the magnitude of the load on AF213 is adjusted by adjusting the apparent power in the wire being adjusted, according to the limits of AF213's operation.

[0098] Furthermore, in step 109 of the operation determination process, if the adjustment of harmonics in the target wire is not included in the request from the instruction server 40, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 will not have the extracted HPS 21 adjust the harmonics. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 adjusts the harmonics in the wire to be adjusted to one HPS21, but is not limited to this. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 may adjust the harmonics in the wire to be adjusted to multiple HPS21s. In this case, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 may determine the load generated in the AF213 by adjusting the harmonics in the wire to be adjusted for each AF213 based on the remaining AF time for each HPS21.

[0099] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of the adjustment process. The adjustment process controls the operation of the HPS21 that is adjusting the power factor of the target wire. If there are multiple HPS21s adjusting the power factor of the target wire, the adjustment process is performed for each HPS21. The adjustment process is started at predetermined intervals when an HPS21 is adjusting the power factor of the target wire. The predetermined interval can be any time, but for example, it is 3 hours. In the following, the HPS21 that is controlled during the adjustment process may be referred to as the target HPS21.

[0100] The index calculation unit 303 calculates the remaining AF time for the target HPS21 (S201). The index calculation unit 303 overwrites the "remaining time" of "AF" associated with the target "HPS" in the HPS management table (see Figure 5) with the calculated remaining AF time. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines whether the remaining AF time for the target HPS21 is equal to or greater than the limit threshold (S202). If the remaining AF time is equal to or greater than the limit threshold (YES in S202), the adjustment process ends. In this case, the operation of the target HPS21 is not restricted, and the adjustment of the power factor in the power line to be adjusted by the target HPS21 continues.

[0101] Furthermore, if the remaining AF time is less than the limit threshold (NO in S202), the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines whether the remaining AF time is equal to or greater than the power factor adjustment threshold (S203). If the remaining AF time is greater than or equal to the power factor adjustment threshold (YES in S203), the transmitter 306 transmits restriction information for the target HPS21 to the instruction server 40, along with HPS identification information that identifies the target HPS21 (S204). The restriction information includes information indicating that the adjustment amount for the target HPS21 is limited. Furthermore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 limits the adjustment amount for AF213 of the target HPS21 (S205). In this embodiment, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 determines half of the current adjustment amount for AF213 of the target HPS21 as the new adjustment amount. The transmission unit 306 transmits the new adjustment amount to the target HPS21 as an operation instruction.

[0102] On the other hand, if the remaining AF time is less than the power factor adjustment threshold (NO in S203), the transmitting unit 306 transmits stop information for the target HPS21 to the instruction server 40, along with HPS identification information that identifies the target HPS21 (S206). The stop information includes information indicating that the power factor adjustment by the target HPS21 on the power line to be adjusted is stopped. Furthermore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 decides to stop the adjustment of the power factor in the target wire using AF213 (S207). The transmission unit 306 transmits an instruction to stop the adjustment to the target HPS21. After this, the administrator managing the target HPS21 can perform maintenance on the target HPS21 as needed. Furthermore, the administrator managing the instruction server 40 can receive restriction information and stop information, and, if necessary, request the control server 30 to perform additional adjustments to the power factor of the power lines to be adjusted using HPS21.

[0103] Thus, in this embodiment, even while the apparent power of the wire to be adjusted is being adjusted by AF213, the operation of AF213 is limited based on the remaining AF time. In this case, it is possible to suppress malfunctions in the AF213 caused by prolonged operation.

[0104] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the transmitting unit 306 outputs limit information or stop information when the remaining AF time is less than a limit threshold while the AF213 is adjusting the apparent power in the wire to be adjusted. In this case, compared to the case where information about HPS21 is output regardless of whether the remaining AF time is below the limit threshold, it is possible to suppress the output of information about HPS21 that is not suitable for notification from the perspective of the limits of AF213's operation.

[0105] In this disclosure, it is explained that HPS21 adjusts apparent power in the receiving-side distribution line 17, but the power lines whose apparent power is adjusted may also be the transmission line 12 or the supply-side distribution line 14.

[0106] Furthermore, in this disclosure, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 adjusts either the power factor or the harmonics when adjusting the apparent power in the wire to be adjusted to AF213, but is not limited to this. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 may adjust both the power factor and the harmonics in the wire to be adjusted to one AF213 based on the remaining AF time.

[0107] Furthermore, in this disclosure, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 limits the adjustment amount for AF213 in order to restrict the operation of AF213. Here, the restriction of the operation of AF213 is not limited to the restriction of the adjustment amount. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 may limit the operation of AF213 by shortening the time required for AF213 to adjust the apparent power in the wire to be adjusted.

[0108] Furthermore, while this disclosure describes an example where parameters such as usage amount, adjustment amount, adjustable amount, and required adjustment amount are current, it is not limited to this. Each parameter may be any of the parameters described above as parameters relating to apparent power.

[0109] Furthermore, in this disclosure, the information used to calculate the remaining HPS time is, but is not limited to, the amount of energy accumulated in a capacitor 2121 provided in the power converter 212, or the number of times a switch unit 2122 provided in the power converter 212 has operated. The indicator calculation unit 303 may calculate the remaining HPS time based on the amount of energy accumulated in the capacitor provided in the inverter (not shown) of the power converter 212, and the amount of energy accumulated in the capacitor provided in the converter (not shown) of the power converter 212. Alternatively, the indicator calculation unit 303 may calculate the remaining HPS time based on the number of times the switch section provided in the inverter (not shown) of the power converter 212 has operated, and the number of times the switch section provided in the converter (not shown) of the power converter 212 has operated.

[0110] Furthermore, the indicators regarding the limits of AF213's operation are not limited to the remaining AF time. The indicator calculation unit 303 may calculate the number of remaining times the switch unit 2132 of AF213 can operate as an indicator of the limits of AF213's operation. The indicator calculation unit 303 may also calculate the magnitude of the risk of a malfunction occurring in AF213 as an indicator of the limits of AF213's operation. The indicator calculation unit 303 may also calculate the degree of deterioration of AF213 as an indicator of the limits of AF213's operation. Furthermore, the indicators regarding the limits of AF213's operation are not limited to the indicators calculated by the indicator calculation unit 303. The indicators regarding the limits of AF213's operation may include the operating time of AF213, the number of times the switch unit 2132 of AF213 has operated, the amount of power accumulated in the capacitor 2131 of AF213, the temperature around the capacitor 2131 of AF213, etc. In other words, the indicators regarding the limits of AF213's operation may also include information detected by the AF sensor 213S.

[0111] Furthermore, the indicators regarding the limits of operation of the HPS21 for temperature and humidity control are not limited to the remaining HPS time. The indicator calculation unit 303 may also calculate the number of remaining times that the switch unit 2122 of the power converter 212 can operate as an indicator of the limits of operation of the HPS21. The indicator calculation unit 303 may also calculate the magnitude of the risk of a malfunction occurring in the HPS21 as an indicator of the limits of operation of the HPS21. The indicator calculation unit 303 may also calculate the degree of deterioration of the HPS21 as an indicator of the limits of operation of the HPS21. Furthermore, the indicators regarding the limits of the HPS21's operation for temperature and humidity control are not limited to the indicators calculated by the indicator calculation unit 303. The indicators regarding the limits of the HPS21's operation may be the operating time of the power converter 212, the number of times the switch unit 2122 of the power converter 212 has operated, the amount of energy accumulated in the capacitor 2121 of the power converter 212, etc. Alternatively, the indicators regarding the limits of the HPS21's operation may be the temperature around the capacitor 2121 of the power converter 212, the concentration of chloride ions in the space where the adjustment unit 211 is located, etc. In other words, the indicators regarding the limits of the HPS21's operation may be information detected by the adjustment unit sensor 211S, or information detected by the converter sensor 212S.

[0112] Furthermore, the information detected by the AF sensor 213S is not limited to the examples described above. The AF sensor 213S may detect the current value accumulated in the capacitor 2131 of the AF213. The AF sensor 213S may also detect fluctuations in the voltage applied to the capacitor 2131 of the AF213. The AF sensor 213S may also detect the operating rate of the AF213. The index calculation unit 303 may then calculate an index regarding the limits of the operation of the AF213 based on the current value accumulated in the capacitor 2131, the fluctuations in the voltage applied to the capacitor 2131, and the operating rate of the AF213.

[0113] Furthermore, the information detected by the conversion device sensor 212S is not limited to the above example. The converter sensor 212S may detect the current value accumulated in the capacitor 2121 of the power converter 212. The converter sensor 212S may also detect fluctuations in the voltage applied to the capacitor 2121. The converter sensor 212S may also detect the operating rate of the power converter 212. The index calculation unit 303 may then calculate an index regarding the limits of the operation of the HPS 21 for temperature and humidity control based on the current value accumulated in the capacitor 2121, the fluctuations in the voltage applied to the capacitor 2121, and the operating rate of the power converter 212.

[0114] Furthermore, the method used by the index calculation unit 303 to calculate the index related to the limits of AF213's operation is not limited to the above example. The index calculation unit 303 may calculate an index for the limits of operation of the AF213 by subtracting the value detected by the AF sensor 213S from a value defined for the limits of operation of the AF213. Examples of values ​​defined for the limits of operation of the AF213 include the limit of the operating time of the AF213, the limit of the amount of power accumulated in the capacitor 2131 of the AF213, and the limit of the number of times the switch unit 2132 of the AF213 operates. Alternatively, the values ​​defined for the limits of operation of the AF213 may be those specified in the HPS21 specifications.

[0115] Furthermore, the index calculation unit 303 may calculate an index regarding the limits of operation of the AF213 based on the results of machine learning. More specifically, the index calculation unit 303 learns the relationship between the information detected by the AF sensor 213S and the limits of operation of the AF213, using information about the AF213 that has reached the end of its lifespan as training data. Examples of training data for the AF213 that has reached the end of its lifespan include information detected by the AF sensor 213S when the AF213 was operating, and information regarding the limits of operation of the AF213. Examples of information regarding the limits of operation of the AF213 include the operating time until the AF213 reaches the end of its lifespan, the amount of power accumulated in the capacitor 2131, and the number of times the switch unit 2132 operated. Based on the learning results, the index calculation unit 303 generates a learning model that takes the information detected by the AF sensor 213S as input and outputs an index regarding the limits of operation of the AF sensor 213S. Then, based on the generated learning model, the index regarding the limits of operation of the AF213 may be calculated from the information detected by the AF sensor 213S.

[0116] Furthermore, the method used by the index calculation unit 303 to calculate the index related to the limits of the HPS21's operation for temperature and humidity control is not limited to the above example. The index calculation unit 303 may calculate an index for the limits of HPS21's operation for temperature and humidity adjustment by subtracting the value detected by the converter sensor 212S from a value defined for the limits of HPS21's operation. Examples of values ​​defined for the limits of HPS21's operation include the limit value for the operating time of the power converter 212, the limit value for the amount of energy accumulated in the capacitor 2121 of the power converter 212, and the limit value for the number of times the switch unit 2122 of the power converter 212 operates. Alternatively, the value defined for the limits of HPS21's operation may be the value specified in the HPS21 specifications.

[0117] Furthermore, the index calculation unit 303 may calculate an index regarding the limits of operation of the HPS21 for temperature and humidity adjustment based on the results of machine learning. More specifically, the index calculation unit 303 uses information about an HPS21 that has reached the end of its life as training data to learn the relationship between the information detected by the adjustment unit sensor 211S and the converter sensor 212S and the limits of operation of the HPS21 for temperature and humidity adjustment. Training data includes information detected by the adjustment unit sensor 211S and the converter sensor 212S when the HPS21 was operating, and information regarding the limits of operation of the HPS21 for temperature and humidity adjustment, for an HPS21 that has reached the end of its life. Information regarding the limits of operation of the HPS21 for temperature and humidity adjustment includes the operating time of the power converter 212 until the HPS21 reaches the end of its life, the amount of power accumulated in the capacitor 2121, and the number of times the switch unit 2122 operated. The index calculation unit 303 generates a learning model that outputs an index regarding the limits of the operation of the HPS21 for temperature and humidity adjustment, based on the learning results, taking as input the information detected by the adjustment unit sensor 211S and the converter sensor 212S. Then, based on the generated learning model, an index regarding the limits of the operation of the HPS21 for temperature and humidity adjustment may be calculated from the information detected by the adjustment unit sensor 211S and the converter sensor 212S.

[0118] Furthermore, this disclosure explains that the control server 30 controls the operation of AF213 based on the limits of its operation. Here, the control server 30 may control the operation of AF213 based on the relationship between the limits of AF213's operation and the period during which the user intends to use AF213. An example of a method by which the control server 30 controls the operation of AF213 based on the relationship between the limits of AF213's operation and the period for which the user plans to use AF213 is described below. When the user inputs the period for which they plan to use AF213 to the control server 30, the control server 30 obtains information indicating the period for which the user plans to use AF213. The control server 30 also calculates from the obtained information how long AF213 would operate if it were used for the period planned by the user without restricting its operation. If the remaining AF time is shorter than the calculated time, the control server 30 may restrict the operation of AF213 to control its operation so that AF213 can be used for the period planned by the user.

[0119] Furthermore, while this disclosure describes a configuration in which the control server 30 controls the operation of the AF213, it is not limited to this configuration. For example, HPS21 may have the functions of a control server 30. In other words, HPS21 may be equipped with a CPU 31 (see Figure 2), ROM 32, RAM 33, communication device 34, and storage device 35 to implement various functions. Furthermore, HPS21 may also be equipped with functions of a control server 30, such as an acquisition unit 301, a storage unit 302, an index calculation unit 303, an extraction unit 304, an adjustment amount calculation unit 305, and a transmission unit 306.

[0120] Here, each of the embodiments described above can be understood as follows. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 in this embodiment controls the operation of the AF213 based on the control unit information. In this case, the operation of AF213 can be controlled based on the limits of operation of AF213, which is electrically connected in parallel with the power receiving path 214 of the power converter 212 and controls the apparent power in the power receiving path 214 of the power converter 212.

[0121] Furthermore, the limit of operation by AF213 is the point at which it becomes unable to perform the intended operation due to changes over time. In this case, the operation of AF213 can be controlled based on the point at which AF213 becomes unable to perform its intended function due to changes over time.

[0122] Furthermore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 controls the operation of AF213 for adjusting apparent power in the wire to be adjusted, based on the control unit information. In this case, the adjustment of apparent power in the wire being adjusted is determined according to the limits of operation by AF213. Therefore, compared to the case where the operation of AF213 is controlled independently of the limits of operation by AF213, the apparent power in the wire being adjusted can be adjusted with adjustments that are appropriate to the limits of operation by AF213.

[0123] Furthermore, the control unit information is information about the operation of the AF213 and / or the environment of the AF213 that affects the limits of the AF213's operation. In this case, compared to when the operation of AF213 is controlled based on information unrelated to AF213, AF213 can be operated in a manner that is more appropriate to AF213.

[0124] Furthermore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 controls the operation of the AF213 based on the relationship between the remaining HPS time and the remaining AF time. In this case, compared to when the operation of AF213 is controlled independently of the remaining HPS time, the AF213 can be operated in such a way that the remaining HPS time and the remaining AF time have a suitable relationship.

[0125] Furthermore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 limits the operation of the AF213 for adjusting apparent power in the wire to be adjusted if the indicator regarding the limit of operation by the AF213 satisfies predetermined conditions. One example of when the indicator regarding the limit of operation by the AF213 satisfies predetermined conditions is when the remaining AF time is less than the limit threshold. In this case, compared to the case where the operation of AF213 is not restricted even if the remaining AF time is below the limit threshold, malfunctions in AF213 can be suppressed, thus suppressing the impact on the operation of HPS21 for temperature and humidity control.

[0126] Furthermore, there are two distinct conditions: a first condition and a second condition. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 restricts the operation of the AF213 for adjusting apparent power in the wire to be adjusted if the index satisfies the first condition but not the second condition, while not restricting the operation of the AF213 for adjusting apparent power in the power receiving path 214. If the index satisfies both the first and second conditions, it restricts both the operation of the AF213 for adjusting apparent power in the wire to be adjusted and the operation of the AF213 for adjusting apparent power in the power receiving path 214. The first condition is that the remaining AF time is less than the wire adjustment threshold. The second condition is that the remaining AF time is less than the HPS adjustment threshold. In this case, by controlling the operational limitations to suppress AF213 malfunctions in stages according to the limits of AF213's operation, it is possible to suppress the significant impact on HPS21's operation.

[0127] Furthermore, the adjustment amount calculation unit 305 controls the operation of the AF213 based on control unit information and environmental information. Environmental information includes information related to the environment of the adjustment unit 211. In this case, the operation of AF213 can be controlled, taking into account the influence of the environment of the adjustment unit 211 on the limits of AF213's operation.

[0128] Furthermore, the adjustment of apparent power in the wire to be adjusted includes the adjustment of the power factor in the wire and the adjustment of harmonics in the wire to be adjusted. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 then determines which of the wires to be adjusted by AF213 based on the control unit information. In this case, the target of adjustment by the AF213 is determined according to the limits of the AF213's operation. Therefore, compared to the case where the target of adjustment by the AF213 is determined independently of the limits of the AF213's operation, it is possible to appropriately determine the target of adjustment by the AF213 in the target wire.

[0129] Furthermore, a predetermined first condition and a second condition relating to the limit of operation by AF213 being closer than the first condition are defined for the remaining AF time. The adjustment amount calculation unit 305 then causes AF213 to adjust the power factor in the wire to be adjusted if the remaining AF time satisfies the first condition, and causes AF213 to adjust the harmonics in the wire to be adjusted if the remaining AF time satisfies the second condition. The first condition is that the remaining AF time is equal to or greater than the power factor adjustment threshold. The second condition is that the remaining AF time is less than the power factor adjustment threshold and equal to or greater than the wire adjustment threshold. In this case, the magnitude of the load on AF213 can be adjusted by adjusting the apparent power in the wire being adjusted, depending on the limits of AF213's operation.

[0130] Furthermore, when the AF213 is adjusting the apparent power in the wire to be adjusted, the transmitter 306 outputs limit information if the remaining AF time satisfies a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition is that the remaining AF time falls below a limit threshold. In this case, compared to the case where limitation information is output regardless of whether the remaining AF time is below the limit threshold, it is possible to suppress the output of information about HPS21 that is not suitable for notification from the perspective of the limits of AF213's operation.

[0131] Furthermore, from another perspective, the HPS21 of this embodiment comprises a power converter 212 that converts the received power and supplies it to a load used for adjustment, an AF213 that is electrically connected in parallel with the power converter 212 to the power receiving path 214 of the power converter 212 and controls the apparent power in the power receiving path 214, an acquisition means for acquiring control unit information regarding the limits of operation by the AF213, and a control means for controlling the operation of the AF213 based on the control unit information. The operation of AF213 can be controlled based on the limits of operation of AF213, which is electrically connected in parallel with the power receiving path 214 of the power converter 212 and controls the apparent power in the power receiving path 214 of the power converter 212.

[0132] Furthermore, the configurations described above are not limited to the embodiments described above and can be modified without departing from the spirit of the invention. In other words, it is understood that a variety of changes in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. The configurations described above are not the only ones you may use; you may also omit some of the components in each configuration described above, or add other functions to each configuration described above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0133] 1...Power control system, 10...Power metering, 10S...Sensor for power lines, 11...Power plant, 14...Supply side distribution line, 16...Receiving side substation, 17...Receiving side distribution line, 20...Power consumption facility, 21...HPS, 30...Control server, 40...Instruction server, 211...Adjustment unit, 212...Power converter, 213...AF

Claims

[Claim 1] A heat pump system that adjusts temperature and / or humidity, A conversion unit that converts the power received from the power line and supplies it to the load used for the adjustment, A control unit is electrically connected in parallel with the power receiving path of the conversion unit and controls the apparent power in the power receiving path. An acquisition means for acquiring control unit information relating to the limits of operation by the control unit, A control means for controlling the operation of the control unit based on the control unit information, Equipped with, The control means calculates the remaining time until the limit on which the control unit can operate, based on the operating time as control unit information, and gradually restricts the operation of the control unit for adjusting the apparent power in the electric wire based on the calculation result. Characterized by Heat pump system.

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