Air conditioning system, control method, and program

Abstract

This air-conditioning system (1) comprises a temperature adjustment unit (11) that adjusts the temperature of an air-conditioned region, a humidity adjustment unit (12) that adjusts the humidity of the air-conditioned region, a sensor that acquires environmental information including the temperature or the humidity of the air-conditioned region, and a control unit (13). The control unit (13) includes: an estimation unit (31) that estimates a change over time in the temperature and the humidity of the air-conditioned region on the basis of the environmental information acquired by the sensor, target values of the temperature and the humidity, and a control schedule indicating a change over time in the outputs of the temperature adjustment unit (11) and the humidity adjustment unit (12); a control determination unit (32) that determines an optimum control schedule by optimally calculating the control schedule on the basis of the change over time in the temperature and the humidity estimated by the estimation unit (31) and the target values; and an adjustment unit control unit (36) that controls the temperature adjustment unit (11) and the humidity adjustment unit (12) on the basis of the optimum control schedule determined by the control determination unit (32).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to an air conditioning system, a control method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Air conditioning systems, including household air conditioners, automatically control the temperature and humidity of the indoor environment to ensure the comfort of those in the room.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes an air conditioning control device comprising an acquisition unit, an operating mode determination unit, a temperature setting calculation unit, and a setting transmission unit, wherein the operating mode determination unit performs at least one of the following processes: determining the operating mode of the air conditioner to be cooling when the indoor temperature and indoor humidity values ​​acquired by the acquisition unit are not included in the temperature and humidity range corresponding to the comfort range and the indoor temperature value is higher than the range; and determining the operating mode of the air conditioner to be heating when the indoor temperature and indoor humidity values ​​acquired by the acquisition unit are not included in the temperature and humidity range corresponding to the comfort range and the indoor temperature value is lower than the range, and the setting transmission unit transmits the operating mode determined by the operating mode determination unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2016-17656 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] According to the air conditioning control device described in Patent Document 1, the indoor temperature can be brought to a target value by performing cooling or heating operation when the indoor temperature and indoor humidity values ​​are not within the comfort range. However, since the intermediate process, i.e., the transient response, is not taken into consideration, there is a problem that occupants may feel a decrease in comfort during the process of bringing the indoor temperature to the target value.

[0006] This disclosure has been made in view of the aforementioned issues and aims to provide an air conditioning system, control method, and program that can maintain user comfort by adjusting temperature and humidity while considering the transient response until the temperature or humidity of the air-conditioned area reaches a target value. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To achieve the above objective, the air conditioning system according to this disclosure comprises a temperature control unit for adjusting the temperature of the air-conditioned area, a humidity control unit for adjusting the humidity of the air-conditioned area, a sensor for acquiring environmental information including the temperature or humidity of the air-conditioned area, and a control unit. The control unit takes the environmental information acquired by the sensor and target values ​​for temperature and humidity, From the start of control to the end of control The system includes: a control schedule that shows the time changes in the output of the temperature control unit and the humidity control unit; an estimation unit that estimates the time changes in the temperature and humidity of the air-conditioned area based on this schedule; a control determination unit that calculates the optimal control schedule based on the time changes in temperature and humidity estimated by the estimation unit and target values, and a control unit control unit that controls the temperature control unit and the humidity control unit based on the optimal control schedule determined by the control determination unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, an air conditioning system, control method, and program can be provided that maintain user comfort by adjusting temperature and humidity while considering the transient response until the temperature or humidity of the air-conditioned area reaches a target value. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Schematic diagram showing the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 2] Block diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 3] A schematic diagram showing the heat load balance of a room in which the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 is installed. [Figure 4]Diagram showing an example of indoor environment control executed by the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 5] Diagram showing the temperature and absolute humidity of the conditioned space in Embodiment 1 [Figure 6] Flowchart showing the air conditioning process in Embodiment 1 [Figure 7] Block diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 2 [Figure 8] Block diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 3 [Figure 9] Flowchart showing the air conditioning process in Embodiment 4

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] (Embodiment 1) The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 - 6. The same or corresponding parts in the figures are denoted by the same reference numerals. The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 1 is an air conditioning system that adjusts the temperature or humidity of the air in the conditioned space.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioning system 1 is installed in the room 100 and includes an air conditioner 10 that adjusts the temperature and humidity of the interior of the room 100, that is, the conditioned space. The air conditioner 10 includes a temperature adjustment unit 11 that adjusts the indoor temperature, a humidity adjustment unit 12 that adjusts the indoor humidity, a control unit 13 that controls the temperature adjustment unit 11 and the humidity adjustment unit 12, and an input unit 14 that receives the operation of the user.

[0012] The air conditioning system 1 includes an indoor temperature sensor 21 that detects the indoor temperature, an indoor humidity sensor 22 that detects the indoor humidity, a blown - out temperature sensor 23 that detects the temperature of the air blown out from the air conditioner, a blown - out humidity sensor 24 that detects the humidity of the air blown out from the air conditioner, an outdoor temperature sensor 25 that detects the outdoor temperature, and an outdoor humidity sensor 26 that detects the outdoor humidity.

[0013] The temperature control unit 11 of the air conditioner 10 adjusts the room temperature by transporting heat to raise or lower the room temperature. The temperature control unit 11 may be a heat pump type heating and cooling device that performs a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle. That is, it may be equipped with a refrigerant circuit (not shown) in which a refrigerant circulates to perform a refrigeration cycle.

[0014] The humidity control unit 12 adjusts the humidity in the room by absorbing or releasing moisture from the air to raise or lower the humidity. The humidity control unit 12 may also be equipped with a solid desiccant to adjust the humidity in the room. Alternatively, the humidity in the room may be adjusted by absorbing moisture from the air on one side (indoors or outdoors) and releasing moisture on the other side.

[0015] The control unit 13 controls the temperature control unit 11 and the humidity control unit 12 to bring the room temperature or humidity closer to the target temperature or humidity, respectively. The control unit 13 may include, but is not limited to, a processor including a central control unit and a memory device. The process by which the control unit 13 controls the temperature control unit 11 and the humidity control unit 12 will be described later.

[0016] The input unit 14 receives user operations such as turning the air conditioning system 1 on or off, setting target values ​​for temperature or humidity, and starting and ending indoor environment control, and transmits them to the control unit 13. The input unit 14 is connected to the control unit 13 by wire or wireless connection. The input unit 14 may be, but is not limited to, a remote controller, a smartphone or tablet with an application installed.

[0017] The indoor temperature sensor 21, the outlet temperature sensor 23, and the outdoor temperature sensor 25 are temperature sensors that measure the ambient temperature and are located indoors, at the outlet of the air conditioner 10, and outdoors, respectively. The indoor temperature sensor 21, the outlet temperature sensor 23, and the outdoor temperature sensor 25 are each connected to the control unit 13.

[0018] The indoor humidity sensor 22, the outlet humidity sensor 24, and the outdoor humidity sensor 26 are humidity sensors that measure ambient humidity and are located indoors, at the outlet of the air conditioner 10, and outdoors, respectively. The indoor humidity sensor 22, the outlet humidity sensor 24, and the outdoor humidity sensor 26 are each connected to the control unit 13. The indoor temperature sensor 21, indoor humidity sensor 22, outlet temperature sensor 23, outlet humidity sensor 24, outdoor temperature sensor 25, and outdoor humidity sensor 26 are collectively referred to as the sensor group.

[0019] The process by which the control unit 13 controls the temperature control unit 11 and the humidity control unit 12 will now be described. The control unit 13 creates an optimal control schedule that represents the output of the temperature control unit 11 or the humidity control unit 12 from the start of control to the end of control, and performs indoor environment control by controlling the temperature control unit 11 or the humidity control unit 12 based on the optimal control schedule.

[0020] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning system 1. As shown in Figure 2, the control unit 13 is connected via a bus to the temperature control unit 11, humidity control unit 12, input unit 14, indoor temperature sensor 21, indoor humidity sensor 22, outlet temperature sensor 23, outlet humidity sensor 24, outdoor temperature sensor 25, and outdoor humidity sensor 26.

[0021] The control unit 13 includes an estimation unit 31 that estimates the time changes of indoor temperature and indoor humidity, a control determination unit 32 that determines the optimal control schedule, a storage unit 33 that stores model information 34, a model modification unit 35 that modifies the model information 34, and a control unit control unit 36 ​​that controls the temperature control unit 11 and the humidity control unit 12 to adjust the temperature and humidity.

[0022] The estimation unit 31 estimates the time changes in indoor temperature and indoor humidity when indoor environment control is performed based on the control schedule.

[0023] The estimation unit 31 obtains a value indicating a target temperature or humidity from the input unit 14 operated by the user, and sets the target temperature or humidity based on the obtained value.

[0024] The estimation unit 31 acquires environmental information indicating indoor and outdoor temperature or humidity from the indoor temperature sensor 21, indoor humidity sensor 22, outdoor temperature sensor 25, and outdoor humidity sensor 26.

[0025] The estimation unit 31 creates a control schedule that shows the time changes in the outputs of the temperature control unit 11 and the humidity control unit 12 from the start of control to the end of control. The process by which the estimation unit 31 creates the control schedule is described below.

[0026] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the heat load balance of a room 100 in which the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 1 is installed. For the sake of explanation, the temperature control unit 11 is assumed to be a room air conditioner comprising an indoor unit 15 and an outdoor unit 16 connected to each other by refrigerant piping 17, and to perform heating operation. The humidity control unit 12 is assumed to be a humidifier 18. That is, the air conditioning system 1 comprises an indoor unit 15 which is a heater and a humidifier 18, and performs heating and humidifying operation.

[0027] In Figure 3, Q is the sensible heat radiated from the indoor unit 15 of the air conditioner, i.e., the heater output. H is the latent heat radiated from the humidifier 18, i.e., the humidifier output or humidification rate. q is the amount of outside air, which may include ventilation or drafts. C is the heat capacity of the air-conditioned area, R is the thermal resistance between the indoor and outdoor air, and T is the thermal resistance between the indoor and outdoor air. in This is the indoor temperature, X in This is the indoor absolute humidity, T out This is the outdoor temperature, X out This represents the outdoor absolute humidity. In reality, other heat balances occur, including solar radiation, heat load from occupants (40), and heat load from lighting or other equipment, but for simplicity, these will not be considered here.

[0028] The balance of sensible heat load and latent heat load can be expressed by the following differential equations (1) and (2), respectively.

[0029]

number

[0030]

number

[0031] The heat capacity C of the air-conditioned area can be expressed by the following equation (3), using the density ρ of air, the specific heat Cp of air, and the volume V of the air-conditioned area. C = ρ × Cp × V (3)

[0032] The information shown in equations (1)-(3) is stored in the storage unit 33 as model information 34.

[0033] The estimation unit 31 substitutes the indoor temperature, indoor humidity, outdoor temperature, and outdoor humidity at the start of control, i.e., the environmental information at the start of control, obtained from the sensor group, into the equations contained in the model information 34 obtained from the storage unit 33. In other words, it inputs the environmental information at the start of control into the model information 34. The estimation unit 31 substitutes the time-varying heating capacity Q(t) and humidification capacity H(t) into the equations contained in the model information 34. In other words, it inputs the heating and humidification control schedule into the model information 34. The estimation unit 31 estimates the time-varying indoor temperature and indoor humidity, i.e., the transient response, when the input control schedule is executed, by approximating the numerical solution of the differential equation contained in the model information 34 with discrete values. In other words, the estimation unit 31 outputs information showing the transient response of indoor temperature and indoor humidity from the model information 34 into which the environmental information at the start of control and the control schedule have been input.

[0034] The control determination unit 32 determines an optimal control schedule, which is one of the control schedules, based on the target values ​​of indoor temperature and indoor humidity, and the time changes of indoor temperature and indoor humidity output by the estimation unit 31. The method by which the control determination unit 32 determines the optimal control schedule may include, but is not limited to, optimal calculation.

[0035] The optimal control schedule will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of indoor environment control executed by the air conditioning system 1. It is assumed that the configuration of the air conditioning system 1 is the same as that in the example of FIG. 3. The horizontal axis in FIG. 4 represents time, and the vertical axis represents the output (W) from the air conditioner indoor unit 15, which is a heater, i.e., the heating capacity, the output (mL / h) from the humidifier 18, i.e., the humidification amount, the time change of the indoor temperature (°C), and the time change of the indoor humidity (%).

[0036] T set °C is the target value of the indoor temperature set by the user via the input unit 14, and RH set % is the target value of the indoor humidity. (T set -α)°C is the indoor temperature at 0 min, which is the start time of control. It is assumed that the indoor humidity at the start time of control is near the target value. In this case, the outputs of the air conditioner indoor unit 15 and the humidifier 18 that rapidly make the indoor temperature follow the target value while maintaining the indoor humidity near the target value are the optimal control schedule.

[0037] The control unit 13 determines an optimal control schedule that can obtain responses of indoor temperature and humidity that are comfortable for the occupant 40 before 0 min, which is the start time of control. The solid line 41 in FIG. 4 indicates the output of the heater according to the optimal control schedule determined by the control determination unit 32 of the control unit 13, the dotted line 43 indicates the output of the humidifier, the solid line 44 indicates the time change of the indoor temperature, and the dotted line 46 indicates the time change of the indoor humidity.

[0038] According to the optimal control schedule determined by the control determination unit 32, as shown by the solid line 41, the heater starts, and the indoor air is heated by the heater from 0 min to 20 min. As a result, as shown by the solid line 44, the indoor temperature rises from (T set -α)°C to T set °C. As the indoor temperature approaches the target value, the heating capacity decreases as shown by the solid line 41, and after 20 min, the output of the heater balances with the sensible heat load and the indoor temperature stabilizes.

[0039] According to the optimal control schedule, the heater increases its output to bring the room temperature closer to the target value, as shown by the solid line 41, and the humidifier also increases its output, as shown by the dotted line 43. As a result, the room temperature approaches the target value, as shown by the solid line 44, while the room humidity remains at the target value, as shown by the dotted line 46.

[0040] As an example of conventional control that reduces the comfort of the occupants 40, we will describe the case where the indoor temperature and humidity are controlled individually. In Figure 4, solid line 41 shows the output of the heater, solid line 42 shows the output of the humidifier, solid line 44 shows the change in indoor temperature over time, and solid line 45 shows the change in indoor humidity over time. For comparison, the output of the heater and the change in indoor temperature over time are assumed to be the same as those determined by the optimal control schedule determined by the control determination unit 32.

[0041] According to conventional control examples, as shown by solid line 44, the indoor temperature approaches the target value, while as shown by solid line 45, the indoor humidity increases (RH set It decreases to -β)%. After the indoor temperature reaches the target value at 20 min, the humidifier increases its output to bring the indoor humidity closer to the target value, as shown by solid line 42, and the indoor humidity approaches the target value, as shown by solid line 45. In other words, according to the conventional control example, the indoor temperature approaches the target value while the indoor humidity moves away from the target value.

[0042] This section describes the indoor environment when the indoor environment is controlled according to the optimal control schedule. Figure 5 shows the temperature and absolute humidity of the conditioned area. Point 47 in Figure 5 represents the temperature and humidity of the conditioned area at the start of control, point 48 represents the target values ​​for temperature and humidity of the conditioned area, and the dotted line 51 shows the time course of temperature and humidity when the indoor environment is controlled according to the optimal control schedule.

[0043] As shown by the dotted line 51 in Figure 5, sensible heat changes due to heater control, latent heat changes due to humidifier control, and humidity changes occur simultaneously, and from point 47 to point 48, the lines representing indoor temperature and indoor humidity follow a trajectory along the isohumidity line. In other words, one optimal control schedule is a control schedule that changes indoor temperature and indoor humidity along the isohumidity line. However, the optimal control schedule is not limited to this.

[0044] This section describes the indoor environment when indoor environment control is performed according to a conventional control example. The solid lines 49 and 50 in Figure 5 show the time course of temperature and humidity when indoor environment control is performed according to a conventional control example.

[0045] As shown by the solid line 49 in Figure 5, a change in sensible heat due to heater control appears from the start of control. Assuming there is no outside air volume including ventilation, the absolute humidity remains constant, while as the indoor temperature rises, the saturated water vapor amount increases, and the amount of water vapor contained in the air per unit volume relatively decreases. Therefore, when the indoor temperature is T set When the temperature reaches ℃, the relative humidity, or indoor humidity, is (RH set It decreases to -β)%. In order to reach the target indoor humidity, the relative humidity needs to be increased by β%, and as shown by the solid line 50, a change in latent heat due to humidifier control appears.

[0046] When indoor environment control is performed according to conventional control methods, a temporary decrease in humidity occurs before the indoor environment reaches the target value from the initial state, leading to discomfort for the occupants 40, including dry throat or dry skin.

[0047] The memory unit 33 stores information regarding the heat capacity of the air-conditioned area, namely the density ρ of the air, the specific heat of the air Cp, and the volume V of the air-conditioned area. The memory unit 33 stores the information shown in equations (1)-(3) as model information 34.

[0048] The adjustment unit control unit 36 ​​controls the temperature control unit 11 and the humidity control unit 12 to adjust the temperature and humidity, i.e., performs indoor environment control, based on the optimal control schedule created by the control determination unit 32.

[0049] The model modification unit 35 uses the time-series data of indoor temperature and indoor humidity, i.e., the response data of indoor temperature and indoor humidity, obtained by the adjustment unit control unit 36 ​​performing indoor environment control based on the optimal control schedule, to modify the model information 34 stored in the storage unit 33 at modification intervals Δt, thereby updating the model information 34 to the latest version.

[0050] The model modification unit 35 processes the indoor temperature time series data T obtained by performing indoor environment control. in (t), time series data of indoor humidity X in (t), time series data of outdoor temperature T out (t), and time-series data of outdoor absolute humidity X out Retrieve the response data containing (t).

[0051] The model modification unit 35 acquires data from the outlet temperature sensor 23 and outlet humidity sensor 24, respectively, to estimate the time-series data Q(t) of the sensible heat load and the time-series data H(t) of the latent heat load output from the air conditioner 10, which are performed by the control unit 13 when it performs indoor environment control.

[0052] The model modification unit (35) processes each acquired time series data T in (t), X in (t), T out (t), X out Model information 34 is modified using (t), Q(t), and H(t). Specifically, model parameters are calculated that match the indoor temperature and humidity responses calculated from equations (1) and (2) to the actual responses obtained, and the model information 34 is updated by replacing the parameters included in model information 34 with the calculated model parameters. The model parameters to be calculated may, but are not limited to, the thermal resistance R between indoor and outdoor air and the amount of outdoor air q.

[0053] The smaller the correction interval Δt of the model information 34, the more precisely the system can track changes in the indoor heat load environment. For example, if the control cycle of the temperature control unit 11 or the humidity control unit 12 is the same as the correction interval Δt of the model information, a control schedule corresponding to the indoor heat load environment can be determined each time, making it easier to obtain accurate indoor temperature and humidity responses. On the other hand, the smaller Δt is, the greater the computational load. In other words, Δt is determined by the trade-off relationship between control performance and computational load. Δt may also be changed by input via the user input unit 14.

[0054] When the estimation unit 31 estimates the transient response of indoor temperature and humidity using model information 34, a difference may occur between the estimated value and the actual response. This is partly due to changes in the indoor heat load environment, including changes in the number of occupants 40, opening and closing of windows by occupants 40 for ventilation, and heat load generated by cooking. However, the causes of changes in the indoor heat load environment are not limited to these. Other causes besides changes in the indoor heat load environment are also possible, including errors in the heater or output.

[0055] If a discrepancy occurs between the estimated values ​​and the actual response, even if the optimal control schedule determined by the control decision unit 32 is executed, the indoor temperature and humidity responses may not be as expected, potentially leading to a decrease in the comfort of the occupants 40. The model modification unit 35 can correct the model information 34 to eliminate the difference between the estimated values ​​and the actual response.

[0056] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the air conditioning process performed by the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 1. The air conditioning process performed by the air conditioning system 1 will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 6.

[0057] When the air conditioning process is started, the estimation unit 31 of the control unit 13 of the air conditioning system 1 obtains values ​​indicating target values ​​for temperature and humidity from the input unit 14 operated by the user, and sets the target values ​​for temperature and humidity based on the obtained values ​​(step S101).

[0058] Once a target value is set, the estimation unit 31 acquires environmental information from the sensor group, including the indoor temperature, indoor humidity, outdoor temperature, and outdoor humidity at the start of control (step S102).

[0059] When environmental information is acquired, the estimation unit 31 inputs the acquired environmental information and the heating and humidification control schedule into the model information 34 and estimates the time change of indoor temperature and indoor humidity (step S103).

[0060] When the estimation unit 31 estimates the time changes of the indoor temperature and indoor humidity, the control determination unit 32 determines the optimal control schedule for heating and humidification based on the target values ​​of the indoor temperature and indoor humidity and the time changes of the indoor temperature and indoor humidity output by the estimation unit 31 (step S104).

[0061] Once the control determination unit 32 determines the optimal control schedule, the adjustment unit control unit 36 ​​controls the temperature control unit 11 and the humidity control unit 12 based on the optimal control schedule and performs environmental control (step S105).

[0062] When environmental control is performed, the model modification unit 35 determines whether the modification interval Δt has elapsed (step S106).

[0063] If it is determined that the time has not elapsed (step S106: NO), the process returns to step S105 and continues with environmental control.

[0064] If it is determined that the time has elapsed (step S106: YES), the model modification unit 35 acquires time-series data of indoor temperature, indoor humidity, outdoor temperature, and outdoor humidity at the start of control from the sensor group, as well as time-series data of sensible heat load and latent heat load, and modifies the model information 34 based on the acquired data (step S107).

[0065] When the model modification unit 35 modifies the model information 34, the control unit 13 determines whether the user has input an instruction to stop the control of indoor temperature and indoor humidity via the input unit 14 (step S108). If it is determined that no such instruction has been input (step S108: NO), the process returns to step S102.

[0066] If it is determined that input has been received (Step S108: YES), the air conditioning process is terminated.

[0067] With the above configuration, the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 1 can adjust the temperature and humidity while considering the transient response until the temperature or humidity of the air-conditioned area reaches a target value, thereby maintaining user comfort.

[0068] The characteristics of the air-conditioned area may change due to frequently changing factors, including the number of occupants 40 or the number of ventilation cycles. The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 1 can adjust the temperature and humidity of the air-conditioned area by creating an optimal control schedule that follows changes in the characteristics of the air-conditioned area by modifying the model information 34 at each modification interval Δt.

[0069] If the sensible heat load or latent heat load output from the air conditioner 10 is estimated solely from voltage or frequency, the error between the actual sensible heat load or latent heat load in the controlled area and the estimated value may become large if the piping between the indoor and outdoor units is long. The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 1 estimates the sensible heat load and latent heat load from data output by the outlet temperature sensor 23 and the outlet humidity sensor 24, respectively, thereby reducing the error between the actual value and the estimated value in the controlled area and enabling accurate control.

[0070] (Embodiment 2) The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figure 7. The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 2 includes a server 2 having the functions of a control unit 13.

[0071] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 2. As shown in Figure 7, the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 2 includes a server 2. The server 2 includes the functions of a control unit 13. Specifically, the server 2 includes an estimation unit 31, a control determination unit 32, a storage unit 33, a model modification unit 35, and an adjustment unit control unit 36.

[0072] Server 2 may be a server installed in the same building as the building where air conditioning system 1 is installed, and which controls multiple air conditioning systems including air conditioning system 1, or it may be a cloud server connected to multiple air conditioning systems including air conditioning system 1 via the internet.

[0073] If Server 2 is a cloud server connected to the air conditioning system 1 via the internet, environmental information detected by the sensor group and information entered by the user via the input unit 14 are transmitted to Server 2 via the internet. Based on the transmitted information, Server 2 determines an optimal control schedule, similar to the control unit 13 in Embodiment 1. The determined optimal control schedule is transmitted from Server 2 to the temperature control unit 11 or humidity control unit 12 via the internet, and the temperature control unit 11 or humidity control unit 12 is controlled according to the optimal control schedule.

[0074] By having the above configuration and performing air conditioning processing, the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 2 will have the same effects as the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0075] The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 2 includes a server 2, which enables it to acquire data or model information 34 from multiple air conditioning systems and utilize a large amount of data, thereby generating an optimal control schedule that leads to greater user comfort and adjusting the temperature and humidity.

[0076] (Embodiment 3) The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 3 of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figure 8. The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 3 includes a server 2 that includes artificial intelligence.

[0077] Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 3. As shown in Figure 8, the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 3 includes a server 2, which includes a learning device 61 that generates a trained model and an inference device 62 that generates an optimal control schedule using the trained model.

[0078] The learning device 61 generates a trained model that infers an optimal control schedule from the environmental information and target values, based on the environmental information and target values ​​obtained from the sensor group provided as input, the target values ​​obtained from the input unit 14, and the time-series data of sensible heat load and latent heat load provided as output.

[0079] The inference device 62 receives environmental information acquired from the sensor group and target values ​​acquired from the input unit 14, and uses the trained model generated by the learning device 61 to infer the optimal control schedule.

[0080] By having the above configuration and performing air conditioning processing, the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 3 will have the same effects as the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0081] The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 3 can generate a trained model and infer an optimal control schedule, allowing it to utilize trained models created by other air conditioning systems, thereby further enhancing user comfort even with short operating times.

[0082] (Embodiment 4) The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 4 of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figure 9. The configuration of the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 4 is the same as that of the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 1. The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 4 determines the modification interval Δt of the model information 34 after modifying the model information 34.

[0083] In Embodiment 4, the model modification unit 35 modifies the model information 34, then calculates the time-averaged difference between the estimated time changes in indoor temperature and humidity and the time changes in indoor temperature and humidity obtained from environmental information, and stores it in the storage unit 33. Each time the model information 34 is modified, the model modification unit 35 compares the time-averaged difference calculated after the previous modification of the model information 34 stored in the storage unit 33 with the time-averaged difference calculated after the current modification of the model information 34, and determines the modification interval Δt until the next modification of the model information 34 based on the comparison result. The model modification unit 35 may set at least one of an upper or lower limit for the modification interval Δt of the model information 34. The model modification unit 35 may also compare the time-averaged difference calculated after the current modification of the model information 34 with the time-averaged difference calculated after the modification of the model information 34 prior to the previous one.

[0084] If the time-averaged difference calculated after the current modification of model information 34 is greater than the time-averaged difference calculated after the previous modification of model information 34, it is possible that the estimation accuracy of the time changes in indoor temperature and indoor humidity by the estimation unit 31 is low. In this case, the model modification unit 35 may reduce the modification interval Δt. By reducing the modification interval Δt, the accuracy of the model information 34 can be improved.

[0085] If the time-averaged difference calculated after the current modification of model information 34 is smaller than the time-averaged difference calculated after the previous modification of model information 34, the estimation unit 31 can be considered to have estimated the time changes of indoor temperature and indoor humidity with sufficient accuracy. In this case, the model modification unit 35 may increase the modification interval Δt. By increasing the modification interval Δt, the model modification unit 35 can reduce the computational load and improve the accuracy of model information 34.

[0086] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the air conditioning process performed by the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 4. The air conditioning process performed by the air conditioning system 1 will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 9. Steps S101-S108 in the flowchart of Figure 9 are the same as steps S101-S108 in the flowchart of Figure 6 in Embodiment 1.

[0087] In step S107, when the model modification unit 35 modifies the model information 34, the model modification unit 35 calculates the time average of the difference between the time change of the estimated indoor temperature and indoor humidity and the time change of indoor temperature and indoor humidity obtained from the environmental information, compares the time average of the difference calculated after the previous modification of the model information 34 with the time average of the difference calculated after the current modification of the model information 34, and determines the modification interval Δt until the next modification of the model information 34 based on the result of the comparison (step S109), and proceeds to step S108.

[0088] By having the above configuration and performing air conditioning processing, the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 4 will have the same effects as the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0089] The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 4 can improve the accuracy of the model information 34 or reduce the computational load by determining the correction interval Δt of the model information 34 based on the time average difference between the time changes of the estimated indoor temperature and indoor humidity and the time changes of the indoor temperature and indoor humidity obtained from environmental information.

[0090] An example of a case where the correction interval Δt in model information 34 should be reduced is when the heat load in room 100 where the air conditioning system 1 is installed fluctuates while the air conditioner 10 is in operation. This can occur when ventilation is started or stopped, or when the number of people in room 100 increases or decreases.

[0091] Another example of a situation where the correction interval Δt in model information 34 should be reduced is when humidity rise occurs during cooling operation of the air conditioner 10. When the air conditioner 10 is stopped during cooling operation or when the compressor frequency is reduced, a phenomenon called humidity rise, in which humidity increases, may occur. During cooling operation of the air conditioner 10, moisture that condenses on the heat exchanger of the indoor unit 15 of the air conditioner runs down the heat exchanger and falls to the inner bottom surface of the indoor unit 15, and is discharged outside by the drain hose. Since it takes time for the moisture to be discharged, when the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger rises, including when the air conditioner 10 is stopped during cooling operation or when the compressor frequency is reduced, the amount of saturated water vapor increases, the moisture attached to the heat exchanger evaporates, and humidity rise occurs, in which high-humidity air is blown into the room.

[0092] When the air conditioner 10 is in cooling operation, if the humidity in the dehumidified room 100 rises again, this can lead to discomfort for the occupants 40 and a deterioration in energy-saving performance. Therefore, if humidity rise occurs during the cooling operation of the air conditioner 10, it is desirable to increase the dehumidification capacity of the humidity control unit 12.

[0093] In order to estimate the time-dependent changes in indoor temperature and humidity, taking into account humidity return, it is necessary to estimate the amount of moisture held by the indoor unit 15 of the air conditioner. The amount of moisture held by the indoor unit 15 of the air conditioner is the sum of the amount of moisture attached at the start of operation and the amount of moisture condensed on the heat exchanger, minus the amount of moisture discharged to the outside through the drain hose. While the amount of moisture condensed on the heat exchanger can be calculated from environmental information, it is difficult to calculate the amount of moisture attached at the start of operation and the amount of moisture discharged to the outside from environmental information.

[0094] The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 4 determines the correction interval Δt of the model information 34 based on the time average of the difference between the estimated time changes in indoor temperature and indoor humidity and the time changes in indoor temperature and indoor humidity obtained from environmental information. This makes it possible to reduce the correction interval Δt of the model information 34 and improve the accuracy of the model information 34 without having to estimate the amount of moisture held by the air conditioner indoor unit 15 and estimate the time changes in indoor temperature and indoor humidity taking into account humidity return.

[0095] (modified version) The embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to those described above and can be modified. For example, although the air conditioning system 1 is said to include a humidity control unit 12, it is not limited to this. Instead of the humidity control unit 12, at least one of a humidifier including ultrasonic and evaporative types, and a dehumidifier including adsorption types may be included.

[0096] The control unit 13 is provided with a model modification unit 35, but is not limited to this. It is also possible to omit the model modification unit 35 and not modify the model information 34.

[0097] The memory unit 33 stores information regarding the heat capacity of the air-conditioned area, namely the density ρ of the air, the specific heat of the air Cp, and the volume V of the air-conditioned area, but is not limited to this. Multiple candidate volumes V of the air-conditioned area corresponding to the capacity range of the air conditioner 10 may be stored, and the user may correct or select one via input from the input unit 14.

[0098] When estimating the indoor humidity response, it is acceptable to use relative humidity as the unit instead of absolute humidity. The transient response RH(t) of indoor relative humidity is given by the indoor temperature T in (T) and indoor absolute humidity X in (t) can be obtained. Specifically, it can be derived using a psychrometric chart or an approximate formula that mimics the information of a psychrometric chart shown in formula (4). The memory unit 33 stores the psychrometric chart or formula (4) as model information 34. RH in (t) = f(T in (t),X in (t)) (4)

[0099] The model information shown in equations (1)-(4) may be stored in the memory unit 33 as a discretized model based on the control period. The control period is, for example, 1 second, but is not limited to this.

[0100] Although it has been explained that the user is present in the room that is being air-conditioned and operates the input unit 14, this is not the only explanation. The user operating the input unit 14 does not need to be in the room, and other occupants 40 other than the user operating the input unit 14 may be in the room.

[0101] In Embodiment 1, the air conditioning system 1 was described as performing heating and humidification operation using a heater and a humidifier. However, it is not limited to this, and similar effects can be obtained in any of the following: heating and dehumidification operation, cooling and humidification operation, cooling and dehumidification operation, or any combination thereof.

[0102] The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 2 is said to include a server 2 having the functions of the control unit 13, but it is not limited to this. The air conditioning system 1 may include both the control unit 13 and the server 2.

[0103] Although the air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 3 is said to include a server 2 that includes artificial intelligence, it is not limited to this. The air conditioning system 1 may also include a control unit 13 that includes artificial intelligence. That is, the control unit 13 may include a learning device 61 and an inference device 62. Furthermore, the air conditioning system 1 may include a control unit 13 that does not include artificial intelligence and a server 2 that includes artificial intelligence, or it may include a control unit 13 that includes artificial intelligence and a server 2 that does not include artificial intelligence.

[0104] In Embodiment 3, the server 2 may learn based on training data transmitted from multiple air conditioning systems operating in air-conditioned areas different from the room where the air conditioning system 1 is installed. Alternatively, it may infer an optimal control schedule using a trained model transmitted from other air conditioning systems.

[0105] The various aspects of this disclosure are summarized below as an appendix.

[0106] (Note 1) A temperature control unit that adjusts the temperature of the air-conditioned area, A humidity control unit that adjusts the humidity of the air-conditioned area, A sensor that acquires environmental information including temperature or humidity in the air-conditioned area, It comprises a control unit and, The control unit, An estimation unit estimates the time-dependent temperature and humidity changes in the air-conditioned area based on the environmental information acquired by the sensor, target values ​​for temperature and humidity, and a control schedule indicating the time-dependent changes in the output of the temperature control unit and the humidity control unit. A control determination unit calculates the optimal control schedule based on the time changes of temperature and humidity estimated by the estimation unit and the target value, and determines the optimal control schedule. The control unit includes a control unit that controls the temperature control unit and the humidity control unit based on the optimal control schedule determined by the control determination unit, Air conditioning system. (Note 2) The estimation unit inputs the environmental information, the target value, and the control schedule into model information that shows the relationship between the environmental information, the target value, and the control schedule to estimate the time change of temperature and humidity in the air-conditioned area. The control unit, A storage unit for storing the aforementioned model information, The system further includes a model modification unit that modifies the model information stored in the memory unit, The air conditioning system described in Appendix 1. (Note 3) The model modification unit modifies the model information stored in the storage unit at each modification interval using the time-series data of the environmental information acquired by the sensor. The air conditioning system described in Appendix 2. (Note 4) The environmental information further includes at least one of the following: the temperature of the air blown out from the temperature control unit, the humidity of the air blown out from the humidity control unit, the temperature outside the air-conditioned area, and the humidity outside the air-conditioned area. An air conditioning system as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 3. (Note 5) A server comprising the control unit, The server is connected to the temperature control unit, the humidity control unit, and the sensor. An air conditioning system as described in any one of the appendices 1 through 4. (Note 6) The control unit generates a trained model from the environmental information, the target value, and the control schedule, and generates the optimal control schedule using the trained model. An air conditioning system as described in any one of the appendices 1 through 5. (Note 7) The control unit, A learning device that acquires the environmental information and the target value as input, acquires the control schedule as output, and generates a trained model that infers the optimal control schedule from the environmental information and the target value, The learning device includes an inference device that infers the optimal control schedule based on the learned model generated by the learning device, the environmental information, and the target value, The air conditioning system described in Appendix 6. (Note 8) After correcting the model information, the model modification unit calculates the time average difference between the time change of temperature or humidity in the air-conditioned area estimated by the estimation unit and the time change of temperature or humidity in the air-conditioned area obtained from the environmental information acquired by the sensor, and stores it in the storage unit. The time average value calculated after modifying the model information immediately prior to the modification is compared with the time average value calculated after modifying the model information prior to the modification of the model information immediately prior to the modification, and the modification interval of the model information is determined based on the result of the comparison. The air conditioning system described in Appendix 3. (Note 9) Environmental information, including temperature or humidity in the air-conditioned area, is acquired. Based on the aforementioned environmental information, target values ​​for temperature and humidity, and a control schedule showing the time-dependent changes in the output of the temperature control unit that adjusts the temperature of the air-conditioned area and the humidity control unit that adjusts the humidity of the air-conditioned area, the time-dependent changes in temperature and humidity of the air-conditioned area are estimated. Based on the estimated time changes in temperature and humidity and the target values, the control schedule is optimally calculated to determine the optimal control schedule. Based on the optimal control schedule, the temperature control unit and the humidity control unit are controlled. Control method. (Note 10) On the computer, To acquire environmental information including temperature or humidity in the air-conditioned area, Based on the aforementioned environmental information, target values ​​for temperature and humidity, and a control schedule showing the time-dependent changes in the output of the temperature control unit that adjusts the temperature of the air-conditioned area and the humidity control unit that adjusts the humidity of the air-conditioned area, the time-dependent changes in temperature and humidity of the air-conditioned area are estimated. Based on the estimated time changes in temperature and humidity, and the target values, the control schedule is optimally calculated to determine the optimal control schedule. Based on the optimal control schedule, the temperature control unit and the humidity control unit are controlled. program.

[0107] This disclosure allows for various embodiments and modifications without departing from the broad spirit and scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of this disclosure. In other words, the scope of this disclosure is indicated by the claims, not by the embodiments. Various modifications made within the scope of the claims and the equivalent significance of the disclosure are considered to be within the scope of this disclosure.

[0108] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-182120, filed on 14 November 2022. The entire specification, claims, and drawings of Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-182120 are incorporated herein by reference. [Industrial applicability]

[0109] This disclosure can be suitably used as an air conditioning system, a control method, and a program. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0110] 1 Air conditioning system, 10 Air conditioner, 11 Temperature control unit, 12 Humidity control unit, 13 Control unit, 14 Input unit, 15 Indoor air conditioner unit, 16 Outdoor air conditioner unit, 17 Refrigerant connection piping, 18 Humidifier, 21 Indoor temperature sensor, 22 Indoor humidity sensor, 23 Outlet temperature sensor, 24 Outlet humidity sensor, 25 Outdoor temperature sensor, 26 Outdoor humidity sensor, 31 Estimation unit, 32 Control decision unit, 33 Memory unit, 34 Model information, 35 Model modification unit, 36 Control unit control unit, 40 Occupants, 41 Heater output, 42,43 Humidifier output, 44 Time trend of indoor temperature, 45,46 Time trend of indoor humidity, 47 Temperature and humidity at control start, 48 Target values ​​for temperature and humidity, 49-51 Time trend of temperature and humidity, 61 Learning device, 62 Inference device, 100 Room, C Heat capacity, H; humidifier output, Q; heater output, q; ambient air volume, R; thermal resistance, T in Indoor temperature, T out Outdoor temperature, X in Indoor absolute humidity, X out Outdoor absolute humidity.

Claims

1. A temperature control unit that adjusts the temperature of the air-conditioned area, A humidity control unit that adjusts the humidity of the air-conditioned area, A sensor that acquires environmental information including temperature or humidity in the air-conditioned area, It comprises a control unit and, The control unit, An estimation unit estimates the time changes in temperature and humidity of the air-conditioned area based on the environmental information acquired by the sensor, target values ​​for temperature and humidity, and a control schedule showing the time changes in the output of the temperature control unit and the humidity control unit from the start of control to the end of control. A control determination unit calculates the optimal control schedule based on the time changes of temperature and humidity estimated by the estimation unit and the target value, and determines the optimal control schedule. Includes a control unit that controls the temperature control unit and the humidity control unit based on the optimal control schedule determined by the control determination unit, Air conditioning system.

2. The estimation unit inputs the environmental information, the target value, and the control schedule into model information that shows the relationship between the environmental information, the target value, and the control schedule to estimate the time change of temperature and humidity in the air-conditioned area. The control unit, A storage unit for storing the aforementioned model information, The system further includes a model modification unit that modifies the model information stored in the memory unit, The air conditioning system according to claim 1.

3. The model modification unit modifies the model information stored in the storage unit at each modification interval using the time-series data of the environmental information acquired by the sensor. The air conditioning system according to claim 2.

4. The environmental information further includes at least one of the following: the temperature of the air blown out from the temperature control unit, the humidity of the air blown out from the humidity control unit, the temperature outside the air-conditioned area, and the humidity outside the air-conditioned area. An air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A server comprising the control unit, The server is connected to the temperature control unit, the humidity control unit, and the sensor. An air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The control unit generates a trained model from the environmental information, the target value, and the control schedule, and generates the optimal control schedule using the trained model. An air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. The control unit, A learning device that acquires the environmental information and the target value as input, acquires the control schedule as output, and generates a trained model that infers the optimal control schedule from the environmental information and the target value, The learning device includes an inference device that infers the optimal control schedule based on the learned model generated by the learning device, the environmental information, and the target value, The air conditioning system according to claim 6.

8. A temperature control unit for adjusting the temperature of the air-conditioned area, A humidity control unit that adjusts the humidity of the air-conditioned area, A sensor that acquires environmental information including temperature or humidity in the air-conditioned area, It comprises a control unit and, The control unit, An estimation unit estimates the time-dependent temperature and humidity changes in the air-conditioned area based on the environmental information acquired by the sensor, target values ​​for temperature and humidity, and a control schedule indicating the time-dependent changes in the output of the temperature control unit and the humidity control unit. A control determination unit calculates the optimal control schedule based on the time changes of temperature and humidity estimated by the estimation unit and the target value, and determines the optimal control schedule. Based on the optimal control schedule determined by the control determination unit, the control unit control unit controls the temperature control unit and the humidity control unit, A storage unit that stores model information showing the relationship between the environmental information, the target value, and the control schedule, The storage unit includes a model modification unit that modifies the model information stored in the storage unit, The estimation unit inputs the environmental information, the target value, and the control schedule into the model information to estimate the time change of temperature and humidity in the air-conditioned area. The model modification unit modifies the model information stored in the storage unit at each modification interval using the time-series data of the environmental information acquired by the sensor, and after modifying the model information, calculates the time-averaged difference between the time change of the temperature or humidity of the air-conditioned area estimated by the estimation unit and the time change of the temperature or humidity of the air-conditioned area acquired from the environmental information acquired by the sensor, and stores it in the storage unit. The time average value calculated after modifying the model information immediately prior to the modification is compared with the time average value calculated after modifying the model information prior to the modification of the model information immediately prior to the modification, and the modification interval of the model information is determined based on the result of the comparison. Air conditioning system.

9. The optimal control schedule is determined by optimally calculating the control schedule by ensuring that the temperature does not deviate from the target value and that the humidity does not deviate from the target value. The air conditioning system according to claim 1.

10. When the humidity of the air-conditioned area at the start of control is near the target value, one of the optimal control schedules is a control schedule that changes the temperature and humidity of the air-conditioned area along an isohygienic line. The air conditioning system according to claim 1.

11. Environmental information, including temperature or humidity in the air-conditioned area, is acquired. Based on the aforementioned environmental information, target values ​​for temperature and humidity, and a control schedule showing the time-dependent changes in the output of the temperature control unit that adjusts the temperature of the air-conditioned area and the humidity control unit that adjusts the humidity of the air-conditioned area from the start of control to the end of control, the time-dependent changes in temperature and humidity of the air-conditioned area are estimated. Based on the estimated time changes in temperature and humidity and the target values, the control schedule is optimally calculated to determine the optimal control schedule. Based on the optimal control schedule, the temperature control unit and the humidity control unit are controlled. Control method.

12. On the computer, To acquire environmental information including temperature or humidity in the air-conditioned area, Based on the aforementioned environmental information, target values ​​for temperature and humidity, and a control schedule showing the time-dependent changes in the output of the temperature control unit that adjusts the temperature of the air-conditioned area and the humidity control unit that adjusts the humidity of the air-conditioned area from the start to the end of control, the time-dependent changes in temperature and humidity of the air-conditioned area are estimated. Based on the estimated time changes in temperature and humidity, and the target values, the control schedule is optimally calculated to determine the optimal control schedule. Based on the optimal control schedule, the temperature control unit and the humidity control unit are controlled. program.

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