Building ventilation systems, ventilation methods, and programs

Abstract

To provide a technique capable of preventing fragrances from being mixed while supplying the fragrances to a plurality of spaces of a building.SOLUTION: A ventilation system 1 for a building includes a plurality of aroma generating devices 2 disposed in a plurality of rooms in the building, a plurality of ventilation devices 4 disposed in the plurality of rooms, and a control device 6 configured to control operations of the plurality of ventilation devices 4, each of the plurality of ventilation devices 4 is disposed in each of the plurality of rooms, and is capable of switching between an air supply mode in which outside air outside the building is supplied to the room and an air discharge mode in which air in the room is discharged to the outside, the control device 6 controls the wind direction between the rooms by switching the operation mode of each of the ventilators 4 based on the operation state of the plurality of aroma generators 2.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a technique for ventilating a building.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technique for supplying fragrance to a plurality of spaces in a building has been known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an air conditioning system applied to a theater having a hall as a first space and a lobby as a second space. This air conditioning system includes a fragrance generator that supplies a predetermined fragrance substance to the first space and the second space, and a control device that controls the operation of the fragrance generator.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When providing fragrance to a plurality of spaces, there is a possibility that these fragrances may mix. For example, when a first space and a second space in a building are in communication with each other and air flows from one of the two spaces to the other, the fragrance in one space may move to the other space, and there is a possibility that a plurality of fragrances may mix. When different types of fragrances mix, an unpleasant fragrance may be formed. Also, when the same type of fragrance mixes, a fragrance with a strong concentration may be formed, and an unpleasant fragrance may be formed. Regarding this problem, nothing has been considered in the above Patent Document 1.

[0005] The present invention has been made based on the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a technique capable of preventing fragrances from mixing while supplying fragrance to a plurality of spaces in a building.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A building ventilation system according to a first aspect of the present invention comprises a plurality of fragrance generating devices arranged in a plurality of rooms within a building, a plurality of ventilation devices arranged in the plurality of rooms, and a control device for controlling the operation of the plurality of ventilation devices, each of the plurality of ventilation devices being arranged in each of the plurality of rooms, and being switchable between an air supply mode that supplies outside air from outside the building to the room and an exhaust mode that exhausts the air from the room to the outside, and the control device controls the airflow direction between the rooms by switching the operating mode of each ventilation device based on the operating status of the plurality of fragrance generating devices.

[0007] In this configuration, the control unit switches the operating mode of each ventilation unit between supply mode and exhaust mode based on the operating status of each of the multiple fragrance generators. In supply mode, outside air is supplied to the room, and in exhaust mode, the room air is exhausted to the outside of the building. This allows the control unit to control the airflow direction between rooms. In this way, it is possible to create an airflow direction that prevents the fragrances generated in each of the multiple rooms from mixing. As a result, it is possible to supply fragrance to multiple spaces within the building while preventing the fragrances from mixing.

[0008] In the first embodiment, the building ventilation system according to the second aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of rooms comprising at least two rooms, two of the plurality of fragrance generators being located in each of the two rooms, and the control device may set the ventilation device located in each of the two rooms to the exhaust mode when the two fragrance generators are generating different fragrances.

[0009] With this configuration, if fragrance is generated in at least two rooms, the ventilation system located in each of the two rooms is set to exhaust mode, so that the air from both rooms is exhausted to the outside of the building. This prevents air from one room from flowing into the other, and vice versa. As a result, it is possible to prevent the fragrances generated in each of the rooms from mixing.

[0010] In a third aspect of the present invention, a building ventilation system, in the first or second aspect, allows the control device to set prohibited scents for each room in a database accessible to the control device, where prohibited scents are those that prohibit the inflow of other rooms into the room. The control device may set the ventilation device in the first room to the exhaust mode and the ventilation device in the second room to the supply mode if the scent generator located in the first room of at least two of the rooms generates a specific scent, and that specific scent is set as the prohibited scent for the second room of the other of the two rooms.

[0011] Since fragrance preferences vary from person to person, a scent that is pleasant for one user may be disliked by another. In this configuration, if a scent designated as a forbidden scent in the second room is present in the first room, the ventilation system in the first room is set to exhaust mode, and the ventilation system in the second room is set to supply mode. This creates positive pressure in the second room relative to the first room, forming an airflow direction that directs the air from the second room into the first room. In other words, an airflow direction is created that prevents the forbidden scent present in the first room from flowing into the second room. In this way, a living space can be created where each user can enjoy their preferred scent without worrying about disturbing other users.

[0012] In the fourth aspect of the present invention, the building ventilation system, in the first to third aspects, may have a control device that controls the operation of each of the plurality of ventilation devices to match a first airflow rate indicating the total amount of air supplied by the ventilation devices set to supply mode with a second airflow rate indicating the total amount of exhaust by the ventilation devices set to exhaust mode.

[0013] This configuration prevents an imbalance between the total intake air volume and the total exhaust air volume, thus preventing a deterioration in the building's air quality.

[0014] In a fifth aspect of the present invention, a building ventilation system, in any of the first to fourth aspects, includes a control device that acquires preference information indicating a user's preference for a specific scent, determines whether the specific scent is a preferred scent of the user based on the preference information, and if it determines that the specific scent is not a preferred scent of the user, it may set the specific scent as a prohibited scent.

[0015] With this configuration, prohibited scents are set using preference information that indicates the user's preferences for fragrances, allowing for more accurate setting of prohibited scents compared to cases where preference information is not used.

[0016] In a sixth aspect of the present invention, a building ventilation system, in any of the first to fifth aspects, may, when the control device determines that the specific scent is a scent preferred by the user, acquire concentration information indicating the user's evaluation of the concentration of the specific scent, determine whether the concentration of the specific scent is appropriate based on the concentration information, and if it determines that the concentration of the specific scent is inappropriate, set the specific scent as a prohibited scent.

[0017] With this configuration, if the fragrance concentration is inappropriate, that fragrance is designated as a prohibited fragrance, allowing for more accurate designation of prohibited fragrances.

[0018] In the third embodiment, the building air conditioning system according to the seventh aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of rooms, which include a common room used by a plurality of users, and in the database, each user can set their preferred concentration of a particular scent, and the control device may, when the scent generator located in the common room generates the particular scent, control the scent generator based on the lowest concentration among the preferred concentrations set for each user.

[0019] With this configuration, when a specific scent is emitted in a shared room, the concentration of that scent is set to the lowest concentration preferred by the users of the shared room. In other words, the concentration is set based on the user who is most sensitive to the specific scent among the users of the shared room. This way, the scent can be emitted at a concentration that does not cause discomfort to any of the users of the shared room. In particular, the comfort level of users who are sensitive to scents is improved.

[0020] In the eighth aspect of the present invention, in any of the first to seventh aspects, the building air conditioning system includes non-habitable rooms, and the control device may calculate the time required for the concentration of the fragrance in the non-habitable room to reach a predetermined concentration when the fragrance generating device located in the non-habitable room generates a fragrance, and set the planned operating time of the fragrance generating device to be less than the required time.

[0021] Since non-habitable rooms can be used by various users, it is preferable to set the fragrance concentration in non-habitable rooms below a predetermined concentration. With the above configuration, the scheduled operating time of the fragrance generator in the non-habitable room is set to be less than the time required for the fragrance concentration in the non-habitable room to reach a predetermined concentration. In other words, the scheduled operating time is set so that the fragrance generator stops operating before the fragrance concentration in the non-habitable room exceeds a predetermined concentration. In this way, the fragrance can be generated at a concentration that does not cause discomfort to all users of the non-habitable room.

[0022] The ventilation method according to the ninth aspect of the present invention is a ventilation method executed by a control device in a building ventilation system including: a plurality of scent generators arranged in a plurality of rooms in a building; a ventilation device arranged in each of the plurality of rooms and capable of switching between an air supply mode of supplying outside air outside the building into the room and an exhaust mode of exhausting the air in the room to the outside. The control device acquires first information indicating the operating status of the plurality of scent generators, and controls the wind direction between the rooms by switching the operating mode of the ventilation device based on the first information.

[0023] According to this ventilation method, the control device switches the operating mode of each ventilation device between the air supply mode and the exhaust mode based on the first information indicating the operating status of the plurality of scent generators. Thereby, since the wind direction between the rooms is controlled, for example, a wind direction can be formed that prevents the scents generated in each of the plurality of rooms from mixing. Therefore, while supplying scents to a plurality of spaces in the building, it is possible to prevent the scents from mixing.

[0024] The program according to the tenth aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a control device to execute processing in a building ventilation system including: a plurality of scent generators arranged in a plurality of rooms in a building; a ventilation device arranged in each of the plurality of rooms and capable of switching between an air supply mode of supplying outside air outside the building into the room and an exhaust mode of exhausting the air in the room to the outside. By executing this program, the control device acquires first information indicating the operating status of the plurality of scent generators, and controls the wind direction between the rooms by switching the operating mode of the ventilation device based on the first information.

[0025] According to this program, the same effect as the above ventilation method can be obtained.

Effect of the Invention

[0026] According to the present invention, while supplying scents to a plurality of spaces in the building, it is possible to prevent the scents from mixing.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0027] [Figure 1] It is a diagram schematically showing the overall configuration of the ventilation system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing the configuration of the control device in a simplified manner. [Figure 3] It is a diagram showing the configuration of the processing unit in a simplified manner. [Figure 4] It is a flowchart showing the flow of a process for obtaining an evaluation from a user regarding the scent. [Figure 5] It is a flowchart showing the flow of a process for obtaining an evaluation from a user regarding the scent. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of the first data table. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of the second data table. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart showing the flow of a process for setting the spraying interval of the scent in a non-residential room. [Figure 9] It is a flowchart showing the flow of a process performed from the start to the stop of the operation of the scent generating device. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart showing the flow of a process for calculating the scheduled operation time of the scent generating device. [Figure 11] It is a flowchart showing the flow of a process for controlling the wind direction. [Figure 12] It is a flowchart showing the details of the flow of a process for controlling the wind direction. [Figure 13] It is a schematic diagram showing a house in the normal state according to the first example. [Figure 14] It is a schematic diagram showing the air flow when the scent generating device is activated in the first room. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing the air flow when the scent generating device is activated in the second room after the scent generating device is activated in the first room. [Figure 16] It is a schematic diagram showing a house in the normal state according to the second example. [Figure 17] This is a schematic diagram showing the airflow in a house when a fragrance generator is activated in the third room. [Figure 18] This diagram shows the airflow when Room 1 and Room 2 are connected. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] The following describes the building air conditioning system according to the present invention. The embodiments described below are all specific examples of the present invention. The numerical values, shapes, components, steps, and order of steps shown in the following embodiments are examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, among the components in the following embodiments, components that are not described in the independent claim indicating the highest-level concept will be described as optional components. Also, in all embodiments, the contents of each can be combined. Elements denoted by the same reference numeral in different drawings will indicate the same or corresponding elements.

[0029] (Embodiment) Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of a ventilation system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The ventilation system 1 is applied to a residence 10 (an example of a building) having multiple rooms, including at least two rooms. However, the building to which the ventilation system 1 is applied is not limited to a residence 10, and it may be applied to various buildings such as office buildings, commercial buildings, and concert halls.

[0030] As shown in Figure 1, the ventilation system 1 includes a plurality of fragrance generators 2, a plurality of environmental sensors 3, a plurality of ventilation devices 4, an equipment sensor 5, and a control device 6, all of which are connected to each other via a communication network NW. The communication network NW is, for example, a local area network.

[0031] Multiple fragrance generators 2 are placed in each of the multiple rooms in the house 10, releasing fragrance into each room. Each of the multiple fragrance generators 2 consists of, for example, an aroma diffuser that sprays aroma at predetermined time intervals.

[0032] Multiple environmental sensors 3 are placed in each of the multiple rooms to measure the type and concentration of fragrance present in each room.

[0033] Multiple ventilation devices 4 are each positioned in one of the multiple rooms to ventilate each room. Each ventilation device 4 is configured to switch between a supply mode, which supplies outside air from the outside of the house 10 to the room, and an exhaust mode, which exhausts the room air to the outside. In supply mode, the ventilation device 4 supplies outside air to the room through a duct (not shown) connected to the room. In exhaust mode, the ventilation device 4 exhausts the room air to the outside through a duct (not shown) connected to the room. The supply and exhaust methods are not limited to the above configuration and can be appropriately changed depending on the structure of the house 10 and the installation location of the ventilation devices 4. For example, if the ventilation device 4 is installed in a vent formed in the wall of the house 10 that connects the outside and inside of the house 10, the ventilation device 4 may perform ventilation without using the above-mentioned duct. In this embodiment, 24-hour ventilation is achieved by each of the multiple ventilation devices 4 performing ventilation.

[0034] The equipment sensor 5 is a sensor that detects an airflow different from the airflow formed by the multiple ventilation devices 4. The equipment sensor 5 according to this embodiment includes a sensor that detects the opening and closing status of a window and a sensor that detects the operating status of kitchen ventilation equipment (such as a ventilation fan) installed in the kitchen of the house 10.

[0035] The control device 6 controls the airflow between rooms by switching the operating mode of each of the multiple ventilation devices 4 based on the operating status of the multiple fragrance generators 2. The control device 6 according to this embodiment is composed of user terminals owned by each of the multiple users residing in the house 10. The user terminal is, for example, a smartphone. However, the user terminal may be composed of an information terminal such as a PC or tablet.

[0036] Figure 2 is a simplified diagram showing the configuration of the control device 6. As shown in Figure 2, the control device 6 has an input unit 61, a communication unit 62, a storage unit 63, and a processing unit 64 that are interconnected via a bus. The input unit 61 is configured using operation buttons or a touch panel. The communication unit 62 is configured with a communication module that supports any communication method such as wireless LAN. The processing unit 64 is configured with a processor such as a CPU. The storage unit 63 is configured using any recording medium such as an HDD, SSD, or semiconductor memory. As shown in Figure 2, the storage unit 63 stores the dwelling data D2 and the program 630.

[0037] Housing data D2 includes various information about the residence 10. For example, housing data D2 includes room user information indicating the user of each of the multiple rooms in the residence 10, volume information indicating the volume of each room, ventilation volume information indicating the ventilation volume of each room, floor plan information indicating the positional relationship of each room and whether each room is connected or not, type information indicating the type of each room, and classification information indicating the classification of each room. Room types include, for example, living room, dining room, kitchen, bedroom, study, entrance, bathroom, toilet, etc. Room classifications include habitable rooms, non-habitable rooms, common rooms, private rooms, etc. A habitable room refers to a room used continuously for purposes such as living, working, or recreation, and for example, living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, bedrooms, children's rooms, and studies are habitable rooms. On the other hand, for example, entrances, bathrooms, and toilets are non-habitable rooms. A common room refers to a room used by multiple users, and for example, living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, and entrances are common rooms. A private room refers to a room primarily used by a single user, such as a bedroom, child's room, or study. Furthermore, the dwelling data D2 includes placement information that associates device identification information (e.g., device ID) for identifying the fragrance generator 2 with room identification information (e.g., room name) for identifying the room. In other words, it includes information indicating which fragrance generator 2 is placed in which room.

[0038] The program 630 stored in the memory unit 63 is read by the processing unit 64, which then executes various processes. The program 630 is provided to the user on a computer-readable recording medium, such as a CD-ROM. The user installs the program 630 into the memory unit 63 by having the control device 6 read this recording medium. The program 630 may also be stored on a server on the internet. In this case, the user may operate the control device 6 to install the program 630 from the server into the memory unit 63.

[0039] Figure 3 is a simplified diagram showing the configuration of the processing unit 64. By executing the program 630 read from the storage unit 63, the processor of the processing unit 64 executes the program 630, thereby enabling the processing unit 64 to function as an acquisition unit 641, a user data collection unit 642, a fragrance control unit 643, and a ventilation control unit 644. In other words, the program 630 is a program that causes the processor, such as the CPU mounted on the control device 6, to function as an acquisition unit 641, a user data collection unit 642, a fragrance control unit 643, and a ventilation control unit 644.

[0040] The acquisition unit 641 acquires first information D1 from the fragrance control unit 643, which indicates the operating status of each of the multiple fragrance generators 2. The acquisition unit 641 also acquires dwelling data D2 from the storage unit 63.

[0041] The user data collection unit 642 acquires preference information indicating the user's preference for a particular scent, and concentration information indicating the user's evaluation of the concentration of that particular scent. Based on this information, the user data collection unit 642 also registers prohibited scents for each room.

[0042] A prohibited scent is a scent that is prohibited from entering one's own room from another room. Furthermore, a prohibited scent is a scent that is prohibited from being generated within one's own room. For example, if scent F1 is registered as a prohibited scent in the first room R1 (Figure 13), the scent control unit 643 controls the operation of the scent generator 2 located in the first room R1 to prevent the generation of scent F1. Also, for example, if scent F1 is registered as a prohibited scent in the first room R1, and scent F1 is being generated in the third room R3 (Figure 13) adjacent to the first room R1, the ventilation control unit 644 controls multiple ventilation devices 4 to generate an airflow direction that prevents scent F1 from flowing into the first room R1. Further details will be described later.

[0043] The fragrance control unit 643 controls the operation of each of the multiple fragrance generators 2. Specifically, the fragrance control unit 643 controls the starting and stopping of each fragrance generator 2, the operating time of each fragrance generator 2, the type and concentration of fragrance generated by each fragrance generator 2, and so on.

[0044] The ventilation control unit 644 controls the operation of each of the multiple ventilation devices 4. Specifically, the ventilation control unit 644 controls the airflow between rooms by switching the operating mode of each ventilation device 4 based on the operating status of the multiple fragrance generators 2.

[0045] The control device 6 (particularly the fragrance control unit 643) according to this embodiment controls the operation of multiple fragrance generators 2 based on each user's fragrance preferences and sensitivity to fragrance concentration. As a preprocessing step, the control device 6 obtains fragrance evaluations from each user. Figures 4 and 5 are flowcharts showing the process flow for obtaining user evaluations of fragrance.

[0046] First, in step ST1, the user data collection unit 642 of the processing unit 64 performs initial registration. During initial registration, the type of fragrance, the user name, the name of the room in which the fragrance generator 2 operates, etc., are stored in a predetermined storage area of ​​the storage unit 63. Hereinafter, the fragrance initially registered in step ST1 will be referred to as the evaluation target fragrance, and the room in which it is initially registered will be referred to as the evaluation target room.

[0047] In step ST2, the fragrance control unit 643 of the processing unit 64 starts operation of the fragrance generator 2. Specifically, the fragrance control unit 643 causes the fragrance generator 2, which is located in the evaluation room, to spray the fragrance to be evaluated. At this time, the fragrance control unit 643 sprays the fragrance to be evaluated at a predetermined spraying interval (for example, once every 10 seconds).

[0048] Furthermore, the fragrance generator 2 according to this embodiment is configured to allow selection of the spraying interval of fragrance components. For example, the fragrance generator 2 is configured to allow selection of the spraying interval from settings such as once every 1 second, once every 10 seconds, once every 100 seconds, once every 200 seconds, once every 400 seconds, and once every 800 seconds. These spraying interval settings are set based on the Weber-Fechner law. That is, they are set according to the law that the magnitude of human sensation is proportional to the logarithm of the intensity of the stimulus received. However, this is merely an example, and the method of setting the spraying interval is not limited to the above example. For example, the spraying interval settings from 1 second to 100 seconds may be set based on the Weber-Fechner law, and the settings thereafter may be set arbitrarily. In other words, it is not necessarily required to set the spraying interval according to the Weber-Fechner law alone, and the spraying interval may be set in an appropriate manner.

[0049] In step ST3, the user data collection unit 642 performs the first olfactory threshold registration. The first olfactory threshold registration is performed after the fragrance to be evaluated has been sprayed a predetermined number of times. The predetermined number is not particularly limited, but for example, it may be 5 times.

[0050] In the first olfactory threshold registration, the user data collection unit 642 prompts the user to input an index indicating the degree of perception of the scent to be evaluated. This index is divided into six levels, for example, from 0 to 5, where "0" indicates no odor, "1" indicates a faintly perceptible scent (detection threshold), "2" indicates a weak scent that can be identified as a certain type (recognition threshold), "3" indicates an easily perceptible scent, "4" indicates a strong scent, and "5" indicates an intense scent. In step ST3, the user's olfactory threshold is registered by receiving input from the user of one of these indices from 0 to 5.

[0051] In step ST4, the user data collection unit 642 determines whether or not it is necessary to change the spray interval of the fragrance generator 2 based on the index received from the user in step ST3. For example, if the user data collection unit 642 receives an index of "0", "4", or "5" in step ST3, it determines that it is necessary to change the spray interval (YES in step ST4). On the other hand, if the user data collection unit 642 receives a value of "1", "2", or "3" in step ST3, it determines that it is not necessary to change the spray interval (NO in step ST4).

[0052] If step ST4 determines that it is necessary to change the spray interval, then in step ST5, the user data collection unit 642 determines whether it is possible to change the spray interval. For example, if step ST3 receives an index of "0", that is, if the user has evaluated that there is no odor, the user data collection unit 642 determines whether it is possible to set a shorter spray interval. Alternatively, if step ST3 receives an index of "4" or "5", that is, if the user has evaluated that the scent is strong, the user data collection unit 642 determines whether it is possible to set a longer spray interval.

[0053] If it is possible to change the spray interval in step ST5, then in step ST6, the user data collection unit 642 changes the spray interval. Then, the process related to step ST2 is executed again. Then, in step ST2, the fragrance control unit 643 causes the fragrance generator 2 to spray the fragrance to be evaluated based on the changed spray interval.

[0054] On the other hand, if it is not possible to change the spraying interval in step ST5, the user data collection unit 642 proceeds to step ST7. Cases where it is not possible to change the spraying interval include when the spraying interval is set to the longest possible interval (for example, once every 800 seconds) and an index of "4" or "5" is received in step ST3 (indicating that the scent is strong). Also, when the spraying interval is set to the shortest possible interval (for example, once every 1 second) and an index of "0" is received in step ST3 (indicating that the scent is weak), these cases may also be considered cases where it is not possible to change the spraying interval.

[0055] In step ST7, it is determined whether the reason why the spray interval cannot be changed is because the spray interval cannot be made any longer. If the reason why the spray interval cannot be changed is that it cannot be made any longer, the process proceeds to step ST15 (Figure 5), and the currently set spray interval is registered. In other words, the spray interval that is set to be as long as possible is registered as the appropriate spray interval.

[0056] On the other hand, if the reason for not being able to change the spray interval is that it cannot be shortened any further (NO in step ST7), the user data collection unit 642 registers the fragrance to be evaluated as a prohibited fragrance.

[0057] Returning to step ST4, if it is determined in step ST4 that there is no need to change the spray interval, then in step ST8, the user data collection unit 642 acquires preference information indicating the user's preference for the fragrance being evaluated. For example, the user data collection unit 642 displays a "Like" button and a "Dislike" button on a display unit (e.g., a display) of the user terminal (not shown), and displays a message on the display unit prompting the user to select one of the two buttons. The selection result of the button is then acquired as preference information.

[0058] In this embodiment, the first olfactory threshold registration process is performed to adjust the spray interval to an appropriate interval for the user, and then it is determined whether or not the scent is to the user's liking. This allows for a more accurate understanding of the user's preferences compared to determining whether or not the scent is to the user's liking without adjusting the spray interval.

[0059] In step ST9, based on preference information, it is determined whether the fragrance being evaluated is to the user's liking. For example, if the user selected the "Like" button in step ST8, it is determined that the fragrance being evaluated is to the user's liking (YES in step ST9). On the other hand, if the user selected the "Dislike" button, it is determined that the fragrance being evaluated is not to the user's liking (NO in step ST9). If the fragrance being evaluated is not to the user's liking, the user data collection unit 642 registers the fragrance being evaluated as a prohibited fragrance.

[0060] If step ST9 determines that the fragrance being evaluated is to the user's liking, then in step ST10, the user data collection unit 642 calculates the time required TM1 until a steady state is reached in the evaluation room. A steady state refers to a state in which a space is filled with a predetermined fragrance component at a predetermined concentration. For example, a state in which the amount of fragrance component sprayed from the fragrance generator 2 and the amount of fragrance component discharged by the ventilation device 4 are in equilibrium, and the concentration of fragrance component in the space stabilizes at a predetermined concentration, is considered a steady state.

[0061] Specifically, in step ST10, the acquisition unit 641 first acquires the housing data D2. Then, the acquisition unit 641 inputs the housing data D2 to the user data collection unit 642. Next, the user data collection unit 642 calculates the required time TM1 based on the information indicating the volume of the room to be evaluated and the information indicating the ventilation rate of the room to be evaluated, which are included in the housing data D2.

[0062] In step ST11, the user data collection unit 642 performs the registration of the olfactory threshold for the second time. The registration of the olfactory threshold for the second time is performed after the required time TM1 calculated in step ST10 has elapsed. That is, it is performed after the evaluation room has reached a steady state. In the registration of the olfactory threshold for the second time, the user data collection unit 642 accepts an index from 0 to 5 from the user, similar to the registration of the olfactory threshold for the first time.

[0063] In step ST12, the user data collection unit 642 determines whether or not it is necessary to change the spray interval. That is, similar to the process in step ST4, if it receives an index of "0", "4", or "5", it determines that it is necessary to change the spray interval (YES in step ST12) and proceeds to step ST5. On the other hand, if it receives a value of "1", "2", or "3" in step ST11, the user data collection unit 642 determines that it is not necessary to change the spray interval (NO in step ST12) and proceeds to step ST13.

[0064] Thus, in this embodiment, after the evaluation room reaches a steady state, the olfactory threshold is registered a second time, and the spray interval is adjusted. That is, compared to the situation when the olfactory threshold was registered for the first time, a more practical environment (an environment closer to the actual operation of the fragrance generator) is created, and then the olfactory threshold is re-registered and the spray interval is adjusted. In this way, the spray interval can be set to a more appropriate interval.

[0065] In step ST13, the user data collection unit 642 acquires concentration information indicating the user's evaluation of the concentration of the fragrance being evaluated. The concentration information is represented by an index divided into nine levels, for example, from -4 to +4. Specifically, "-4" indicates extremely unpleasant. "-3" indicates very unpleasant. "-2" indicates unpleasant. "-1" indicates somewhat unpleasant. "0" indicates neither pleasant nor unpleasant. "+1" indicates somewhat pleasant. "+2" indicates pleasant. "+3" indicates very pleasant. "+4" indicates extremely pleasant. In other words, an index from -4 to -1 indicates that the fragrance being evaluated is a pleasant scent for the user and is set at a perceptible concentration (spray interval), but is unpleasant because the scent is too strong. On the other hand, an index from +1 to +4 indicates that the fragrance being evaluated is a pleasant scent for the user, is set at a perceptible concentration, and the fragrance concentration is appropriate. In step ST13, the user data collection unit 642 acquires concentration information by receiving input from the user for one of these indices.

[0066] In step ST14, the user data collection unit 642 determines, based on the concentration information, whether the target user is in a comfortable state. That is, it determines whether the concentration of the fragrance being evaluated is appropriate. For example, if the user data collection unit 642 receives an index input of 0 to +4 in step ST13, it determines that the concentration of the fragrance being evaluated is appropriate and the target user is in a comfortable state (YES in step ST14). On the other hand, if the user data collection unit 642 receives an index input of -4 to -1 in step ST13, it determines that the concentration of the fragrance being evaluated is inappropriate and the target user is in an uncomfortable state (NO in step ST14).

[0067] If step ST14 determines that the target user is in an uncomfortable state, the user data collection unit 642 proceeds to step ST5 to determine whether or not it is possible to change the spray interval.

[0068] If the user is determined to be in a comfortable state in step ST14, then in step ST15, the user data collection unit 642 registers the spray interval of the fragrance being evaluated. For example, the user data collection unit 642 registers the spray interval at which the concentration was determined to be comfortable (YES in step ST14) in step ST14 of Figure 5 in a predetermined storage area of ​​the storage unit 63. In other words, the user's preferred concentration is registered in the storage unit 63.

[0069] As explained above, in this embodiment, the process of registering the olfactory threshold for the second time is executed, the spray interval is adjusted to an appropriate interval for the user, and then it is determined whether or not the concentration (spray interval) is comfortable for the user. The appropriate concentration (spray interval) obtained as a result of the above determination is then registered in the storage unit 63. In this way, the optimal spray interval for the user can be accurately obtained.

[0070] As steps ST1 to ST15 in Figures 4 and 5 are performed for each of the multiple users, the user data collection unit 642 obtains information on each user's preferred type of fragrance, preferred spraying interval, and prohibited fragrances for each room. Based on this information, the user data collection unit 642 creates a first data table T1 (an example of a database).

[0071] Figure 6 shows an example of the data structure of the first data table T1 created by the user data collection unit 642. The first data table T1 is a database that associates the usernames of multiple users with each user's preferred spray interval for a given fragrance. As shown in Figure 6, the first data table T1 includes a first row L1 and one or more second rows L2. The first row L1 stores the username to identify the user. One or more second rows L2 store the fragrance type name to identify the type of fragrance and the user's preferred spray interval. For example, the notation "10sec" in cell C1 of Figure 6 indicates that user A prefers fragrance F1 to be sprayed at an interval of once every 10 seconds. Also, for example, the notation "Forbidden" in cell C2 of Figure 6 indicates that fragrance F2 is registered as a forbidden fragrance for user B.

[0072] Furthermore, the user data collection unit 642 creates a second data table T2 (an example of a database) by combining the first data table T1 described above with the room user information included in the dwelling data D2. Figure 7 shows an example of the data structure of the second data table T2. The second data table T2 is a database that associates the type of each of the multiple rooms in a building with the user of each room, the method for calculating the fragrance spray interval in each room, and the fragrance spray interval in each room.

[0073] The first data table T1 and the second data table T2 are databases that can be referenced by various functional units of the control device 6, such as the ventilation control unit 644 and the fragrance control unit 643.

[0074] As shown in Figure 7, the second data table T2 includes a third row L3, a fourth row L4, a fifth row L5, and one or more sixth rows L6. The third row L3 stores the room type. The fourth row L4 stores the usernames of users who may use the room. The fifth row L5 stores the method for setting the spray interval. Each of the one or more sixth rows L6 stores the name of the fragrance type and the fragrance spray interval for each room.

[0075] The notation "Maximum Value" shown in cell C3 of row 5, L5 in Figure 7 means that the spray interval is set based on the longest spray interval (an example of the weakest concentration) among the preferred spray intervals (examples of concentrations) set for each user. Let's explain using the case of generating fragrance F1 in the LDK (living room, dining room, and kitchen) as an example. As shown in Figure 7, the LDK is a room that may be used by users A through D. Here, as shown in Figure 6, regarding fragrance F1, user A's preferred spray interval is once every 10 seconds, user B's preferred spray interval is once every 100 seconds, and users C and D's preferred spray interval is once every 800 seconds. If the spray interval for fragrance F1 in the LDK is set to once every 10 seconds or once every 100 seconds to match the preference of user A or user B, the fragrance may be too strong for users C and D, potentially causing them discomfort. Therefore, in the LDK, the spray interval is set based on the preferred spray interval of user C or user D. In other words, in rooms that are both habitable and common rooms, the spray interval is set based on the user who is most sensitive to a particular type of fragrance. For example, as shown in cell C4 of Figure 7, in the LDK, the spray interval for fragrance F1 is set to "800 sec (once every 800 seconds)". Based on this spray interval, the fragrance control unit 643 operates the fragrance generator 2 located in the LDK. In this way, fragrance F1 can be generated without causing discomfort to any user who may use the LDK.

[0076] Furthermore, the notation "Forbidden" stored in one or more rows L6 of Figure 7 means that a given fragrance is set as a forbidden fragrance in a particular room. In this embodiment, a fragrance set as a forbidden fragrance for any one of the users of a shared room is set as the forbidden fragrance for the entire shared room. To explain using the LDK as an example, as described above, the LDK is a shared room used by users A, B, C, and D. Here, as shown in Figure 6, fragrance F2 is registered as a forbidden fragrance for user B. In this case, fragrance F2 is registered in the second data table T2 as a forbidden fragrance in the LDK. In this way, since no forbidden fragrance (fragrance F2 in this example) is generated in the LDK, only a pleasant fragrance can be generated for all users of the LDK.

[0077] Furthermore, as shown in cell C5 of row 5, L5 in Figure 7, in this embodiment, the fragrance spray interval in non-living rooms (such as the entrance) is set according to the flow shown in Figure 8. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the process for setting the fragrance spray interval in non-living rooms. Below, the method for setting the fragrance spray interval in non-living rooms will be explained using the case of setting the spray interval for fragrance F1 as an example.

[0078] First, in step ST21, the user data collection unit 642 refers to the first data table T1 and determines whether or not fragrance F1 is registered as a prohibited fragrance for any user who uses a non-living room (e.g., the entrance hall).

[0079] If fragrance F1 is registered as a forbidden fragrance for any one user (YES in step ST21), the fragrance control unit 643 will not generate fragrance F1 in non-occupied rooms. Therefore, the spray interval is not calculated, and the process ends.

[0080] On the other hand, if no users have registered fragrance F1 as a prohibited fragrance (NO in step ST21), the user data collection unit 642 proceeds to step ST22. In step ST22, the user data collection unit 642 sets the longest spray interval among the spray intervals set for each user at the time of the YES determination in step ST9 in Figure 4 as the spray interval in non-occupied rooms.

[0081] As explained above, in this embodiment, if a predetermined scent (e.g., scent F1) is registered as a prohibited scent, that scent will not be emitted in non-habitable rooms. Furthermore, if the predetermined scent is not registered as a prohibited scent, the spray interval is set based on the user who is most sensitive to that scent. In this way, in a space that may be used by various users, such as a non-habitable room, a type of scent that will not cause discomfort to all users can be emitted at an appropriate concentration.

[0082] Next, the control method of the fragrance generator 2 by the processing unit 64 will be explained. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing that takes place from the start to the stop of operation of the fragrance generator 2. The flow shown in Figure 9 starts when the power to the fragrance generator 2 is turned on, either manually by the user or remotely via the control device 6 (user terminal), etc.

[0083] In step ST31, the fragrance control unit 643 determines the type of fragrance to be generated by the fragrance generator 2. If the user specifies the type of fragrance, the fragrance generator determines the type of fragrance according to the user's specification. On the other hand, if the user does not specify the type of fragrance, the fragrance control unit 643 generates any type of fragrance.

[0084] In step ST32, the fragrance control unit 643 refers to the second data table T2 (Figure 7) generated by the user data collection unit 642 to determine whether the type of fragrance determined in step ST31 corresponds to a prohibited fragrance.

[0085] If the type of fragrance determined in step ST31 is a prohibited fragrance (YES in step ST32), the fragrance control unit 643 executes the process in step ST31 again. That is, it re-determines the type of fragrance.

[0086] If the fragrance determined in step ST31 does not fall under the category of prohibited fragrances (resulting in a NO in step ST32), then in step ST33, the fragrance control unit 643 calculates the planned operating time of the fragrance generator 2. The method for calculating the planned operating time will be described later.

[0087] In step ST34, the fragrance control unit 643 starts operating the fragrance generator 2. The type and concentration of fragrance generated by the fragrance generator 2 are measured by multiple environmental sensors 3 (Figure 1). If the environmental sensors 3 detect that a prohibited fragrance is being emitted from the fragrance generator 2, the fragrance control unit 643 stops the operation of the fragrance generator 2.

[0088] In step ST35, the fragrance control unit 643 transmits a predetermined signal to the ventilation control unit 644 to initiate control of the airflow direction between multiple rooms. Details of the process for controlling the airflow direction will be described later.

[0089] In step ST36, the fragrance control unit 643 communicates with the equipment sensor 5 (Figure 1) to acquire kitchen ventilation equipment information indicating the operating status of the kitchen ventilation equipment and window opening information indicating the open / closed status of the windows.

[0090] In step ST37, the fragrance control unit 643 determines whether the ventilation equipment installed in the kitchen is operating and whether the windows of the house 10 are open, based on the kitchen ventilation equipment information and window opening information. In other words, it determines whether ventilation different from the ventilation performed by the multiple ventilation devices 4 is being performed.

[0091] If the ventilation system installed in the kitchen is operating, or if the windows of the house 10 are open (YES in step ST37), the airflow direction control described later by the multiple ventilation devices 4 may not be performed accurately, so the fragrance control unit 643 stops the operation of the fragrance generator 2.

[0092] On the other hand, if the ventilation equipment installed in the kitchen is not operating and the windows of the house 10 are not open (NO in step ST37), then in step ST38, the fragrance control unit 643 determines whether the scheduled operating time calculated in step ST33 has elapsed. If the scheduled operating time has elapsed (YES in step ST38), the fragrance control unit 643 terminates the operation of the fragrance generator 2.

[0093] Furthermore, after the operation of the fragrance generator 2 has finished, the fragrance control unit 643 may transmit a signal to the ventilation control unit 644 indicating that the operation of the fragrance generator 2 has finished. Upon receiving this signal, the ventilation control unit 644 may switch the operating mode of each of the multiple ventilation devices 4 back to the normal operating mode. For example, the ventilation control unit 644 may return the operating mode of each of the multiple ventilation devices 4 to the operating mode it was in before the fragrance generator 2 started operating.

[0094] On the other hand, if the scheduled operating time has not elapsed (NO in step ST38), the fragrance control unit 643 will again execute the processes in steps ST36 and ST37. That is, it will continue to monitor whether the ventilation fan is operating and whether the window is open until the scheduled operating time has elapsed.

[0095] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the process for calculating the planned operating time of the fragrance generator 2. In other words, it is a flowchart detailing the process of step ST33 in Figure 9.

[0096] First, in step ST41, the acquisition unit 641 acquires the dwelling data D2 from the storage unit 63. The acquisition unit 641 also inputs the dwelling data D2 to the fragrance control unit 643.

[0097] In step ST42, the fragrance control unit 643 calculates the time required TM1 until a steady state is reached in the room where the fragrance is generated (fragrance generation room). For example, the fragrance control unit 643 calculates the time required TM1 based on the volume of the fragrance generation room and the ventilation rate of the fragrance generation room. Information indicating the volume of the fragrance generation room is included in the housing data D2.

[0098] In step ST43, the fragrance control unit 643 determines whether the fragrance generating room is a non-habited room. That is, the fragrance control unit 643 determines whether the fragrance generating device 2, which is the object of control, is located in a non-habited room. The fragrance control unit 643 executes the process in step ST43 by referring to the above-mentioned location information contained in, for example, the dwelling data D2.

[0099] When controlling the fragrance generator 2 located in a non-habitable room (YES in step ST43), the fragrance control unit 643 then acquires the non-habitable room setting time TM2 in step ST44. The non-habitable room setting time TM2 is a time set in advance by the user. The non-habitable room setting time TM2 is stored, for example, in a predetermined storage area of ​​the storage unit 63.

[0100] In step ST45, the fragrance control unit 643 determines whether the time required TM1 until the start of a steady state is longer than the set time TM2 for non-occupied rooms.

[0101] If the time required to start a steady state TM1 is longer than the set time TM2 for the non-occupied room (YES in step ST45), then in step ST46, the fragrance control unit 643 sets the set time TM2 for the non-occupied room as the planned operating time for the fragrance generator 2.

[0102] On the other hand, if the time required to start a steady state TM1 is less than or equal to the set time TM2 for non-occupied rooms (NO in step ST45), half of the required time TM1 is set as the planned operating time for the fragrance generator 2.

[0103] For example, suppose the time required to start a steady state TM1 is 30 minutes, and the non-occupied room setting time TM2 is 15 minutes. In this case, since the time required TM1 is less than or equal to the non-occupied room setting time TM2 (YES in step ST45), the fragrance control unit 643 sets the non-occupied room setting time TM2 (15 minutes) as the planned operating time for the fragrance generator 2.

[0104] Furthermore, consider a case where the required time TM1 is 30 minutes and the set time TM2 for the non-occupied room is 60 minutes. In this case, since the required time TM1 is longer than the set time TM2 for the non-occupied room (NO in step ST45), the fragrance control unit 643 sets half the required time TM1 (30 minutes) (15 minutes) as the scheduled operating time for the fragrance generator 2.

[0105] Thus, in the ventilation system 1 according to this embodiment, when generating fragrance in the fragrance generator 2 located in a non-living room, the time required TM1 until the non-living room reaches a steady state is calculated. Then, the planned operating time of the fragrance generator 2 located in the non-living room is set to be less than the required time TM1.

[0106] In this way, the fragrance generator can be stopped before the fragrance concentration in non-habitable rooms exceeds a predetermined level. This allows the fragrance concentration in spaces that may be used by various users, such as non-habitable rooms, to be limited to below a predetermined level. As a result, discomfort for users sensitive to fragrances is suppressed.

[0107] In addition, while we have described an example where the operating time of the fragrance generator 2 is set to half the required time TM1 (30 minutes) (15 minutes) when the required time TM1 is longer than the set time TM2 for the non-occupied room (NO in step ST45), it is not always necessary to set it to half the time. If the operating time of the fragrance generator 2 in the non-occupied room can be shorter than the required time TM1, for example, one-third or one-fifth of the required time TM1 may be set as the operating time of the fragrance generator 2.

[0108] Returning to Figure 10, if in step ST43 it is determined that the fragrance generation room is a living room (NO in step ST43), then in step ST48 the fragrance control unit 643 obtains the living room setting time TM3. The living room setting time TM3 is a time set in advance by the user. The living room setting time TM3 is stored, for example, in a predetermined storage area of ​​the storage unit 63.

[0109] In step ST49, the fragrance control unit 643 sets the room's set time TM3 as the scheduled operating time for the fragrance generator 2. That is, when the fragrance control unit 643 operates the fragrance generator 2 in the room, it operates it according to the time specified in advance by the user.

[0110] Next, we will explain the process of controlling the wind direction. Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of the process for controlling the wind direction. In other words, it is a flowchart detailing the process of step ST35 in Figure 9.

[0111] In step ST51, the acquisition unit 641 acquires first information D1 from the fragrance control unit 643, which indicates the operating status of each of the multiple fragrance generators 2. The first information D1 includes information indicating whether each fragrance generator 2 is operating or stopped.

[0112] In step ST52, the ventilation control unit 644 controls the airflow between multiple rooms by switching the operating mode of each of the multiple ventilation devices 4 based on the first information D1.

[0113] The details of the process related to step ST52 will be explained below with reference to Figure 12. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of the process in step ST52.

[0114] In step ST61, the ventilation control unit 644, based on the first information D1, recognizes that the operation of the designated fragrance generator 2 (hereinafter referred to as the target fragrance generator) has started.

[0115] Next, in step ST62, the ventilation control unit 644 determines whether or not fragrance is being generated in the adjacent room. That is, it determines whether or not the fragrance generator 2 located in the room adjacent to the room where the target fragrance generator is located (hereinafter referred to as the target room) is operating. An "adjacent room" refers to a room that is adjacent to a predetermined room and is in communication with that predetermined room. In addition, "communication" refers to a spatial connection between rooms by an undercut UC (Figure 13) of a door provided between them.

[0116] If an odor is detected in the adjacent room (YES in step ST62), then in step ST63, the ventilation control unit 644 determines whether or not there are other adjacent rooms. "Other adjacent rooms" refers to adjacent rooms other than the one determined in step ST62.

[0117] If there are other adjacent rooms (YES in step ST63), then in step ST64, the ventilation control unit 644 sets the operating mode of the ventilation device 4 located in the other adjacent rooms to supply air mode, and sets the operating mode of the ventilation device 4 located in the target room and the adjacent rooms to exhaust air mode.

[0118] On the other hand, if there are no other adjacent rooms (NO in step ST63), the process proceeds to step ST72, and the fragrance control unit 643 stops the operation of the target fragrance generator.

[0119] If other adjacent rooms exist, but fragrance is also being emitted in those rooms, the fragrance control unit 643 will stop the operation of the target fragrance generating device.

[0120] If the process in step ST64 is completed, or if no fragrance is being emitted in the adjacent room (NO in step ST62), then in step ST65, the ventilation control unit 644 determines whether or not there is a room (hereinafter referred to as a prohibited room) in which the fragrance emitted by the target fragrance generator is set as a prohibited fragrance.

[0121] If a prohibited room exists (YES in step ST65), then in step ST66, the ventilation control unit 644 switches the operating mode of the ventilation device 4 in the prohibited room to supply air mode and switches the operating mode of the ventilation device 4 in the target room to exhaust mode.

[0122] Furthermore, if the prohibited room is one of the adjacent rooms and the operating mode of the ventilation device 4 in the prohibited room is already set to supply air mode, step ST66 performs a process to switch the operating mode of the ventilation device 4 in the target room to exhaust mode.

[0123] If the process in step ST66 is completed, or if there are no prohibited rooms (NO in step ST65), the ventilation control unit 644 proceeds to step ST67.

[0124] Furthermore, if no odor is being emitted in the adjacent room (NO in step ST62) and there are no prohibited rooms (NO in step ST65), the ventilation control unit 644 sets the operating mode of the ventilation device 4 in the target room to an arbitrary operating mode before starting the process in step ST67.

[0125] In step ST67, the ventilation control unit 644 determines whether or not there are any remaining rooms. "Remaining rooms" refers to rooms that are not adjacent rooms, other adjacent rooms, or prohibited rooms. The ventilation control unit 644 executes the process in step ST67 based on, for example, the floor plan information contained in the housing data D2.

[0126] If there are remaining rooms (YES in step ST67), then in step ST68, the ventilation control unit 644 calculates the total supply air volume and total exhaust air volume for the remaining rooms. The total supply air volume for the remaining rooms refers to the total volume of air supplied to the remaining rooms by the ventilation devices 4 located in the remaining rooms and set to supply air mode. Similarly, the total exhaust air volume for the remaining rooms refers to the total volume of air exhausted from the rooms by the ventilation devices 4 located in the remaining rooms and set to exhaust mode. The ventilation control unit 644 calculates the total exhaust air volume and total supply air volume based, for example, information indicating the operating mode of each of the multiple ventilation devices 4 and the ventilation volume information included in the housing data D2.

[0127] If there are no remaining rooms (NO in step ST67), or if the process in step ST68 is executed, then in step ST69, the ventilation control unit 644 calculates a first airflow rate indicating the total supply air volume and a second airflow rate indicating the total exhaust air volume. The total supply air volume refers to the sum of the airflow rates supplied to each of the multiple rooms by all ventilation devices 4 set to supply air mode. That is, it refers to the total supply air volume of the ventilation devices 4 located in each of the target room, adjacent rooms, other adjacent rooms, and the remaining rooms. The total exhaust air volume refers to the sum of the airflow rates exhausted from each of the multiple rooms by all ventilation devices 4 set to exhaust mode.

[0128] In step ST70, the ventilation control unit 644 determines whether the first airflow rate (total supply air volume) and the second airflow rate (total exhaust air volume) are the same.

[0129] If the first airflow rate and the second airflow rate match (YES in step ST70), the process of controlling the airflow direction ends. The airflow direction controlled by the processes in steps ST61 to ST71 is then maintained until the operating status of the fragrance generator 2 changes.

[0130] On the other hand, if the first airflow rate and the second airflow rate do not match (NO in step ST70), the ventilation control unit 644 adjusts the airflow rate. For example, the ventilation control unit 644 switches the operating mode of the ventilation devices 4 located in the remaining rooms to adjust the number of ventilation devices 4 in supply mode and the number of ventilation devices 4 in exhaust mode. It also adjusts the airflow rate of each ventilation device 4. In this way, the ventilation control unit 644 makes the first airflow rate and the second airflow rate match.

[0131] For example, let's assume that the required ventilation volume for house 10 is set to 120 m3 / h, and that ventilation is performed with a ventilation capacity of 0.5 air changes per hour. The required ventilation volume refers to the amount of ventilation that must be ensured in house 10 according to laws and regulations (e.g., the Building Standards Act) and guidelines. Here, let's assume that as a result of the processing in steps ST61 to ST66, two ventilation devices 4 are set to supply air mode and three ventilation devices 4 are set to exhaust air mode. In this case, the ventilation control unit 644 sets the supply air volume of each of the two ventilation devices 4 set to supply air mode to 60 m3 / h, and the exhaust air volume of each of the three ventilation devices 4 set to exhaust air mode to 40 m3 / h. As a result, both the total supply air volume and the total exhaust air volume become 120 m3 / h. In other words, the total supply air volume and the total exhaust air volume match. Also, if there are remaining rooms (YES in step ST67), the ventilation control unit 644 may adjust the balance between the first air volume and the second air volume by switching the operating mode of the ventilation devices 4 in the remaining rooms.

[0132] A specific example of the processing in steps ST61 to ST72 will be explained.

[0133] Figures 13 to 15 are diagrams illustrating a first example of airflow control. Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing a house 10 in its normal state. The normal state refers to the state in house 10 where the fragrance generator 2 is not activated. As shown in Figure 13, house 10 has a first room R1, a second room R2, a third room R3, and a fourth room R4. The first room R1 and the second room R2 are private rooms such as bedrooms. The third room R3 is the living room, dining room, and kitchen (LDK). In the third room R3, fragrance F1 is set to a forbidden fragrance. The fourth room R4 is the entrance hall. In the fourth room R4, fragrance F2 is set to a forbidden fragrance. Each of the first to fourth rooms R4 is equipped with a fragrance generator 2 and a ventilation device 4. In the example shown in Figure 13, the first room R1 and the second room R2 are connected to the third room R3 through an undercut UC in the door. The second room R2 and the third room R3 are connected to the fourth room R4 through an undercut UC.

[0134] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 13, the ventilation system 4 in the first room R1 is set to supply air mode, the ventilation system 4 in the second room R2 is set to exhaust mode, the ventilation system 4 in the third room R3 is set to exhaust mode, and the ventilation system 4 in the fourth room R4 is set to supply air mode. For distinction, rooms where the ventilation system 4 is set to supply air mode are denoted with the letter "S". Rooms where the ventilation system 4 is set to exhaust mode are denoted with the letter "E".

[0135] In the first example, we assume a case where the fragrance generator 2 in the first room R1 of house 10 is activated, and then the fragrance generator 2 in the second room R2 is activated.

[0136] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing the airflow AF in the house 10 when the fragrance generator 2 is activated in the first room R1. In this case, the ventilation control unit 644 executes the process of step ST61 in Figure 12 to confirm that the fragrance generator 2 in the first room R1 has started operating. The fragrance generator 2 in the first room R1 generates, for example, fragrance F1. As shown in Figure 14, no fragrance is generated in the adjacent room to the first room R1 (third room R3), so in the process of step ST62, the ventilation control unit 644 determines NO and proceeds to step ST65. As described above, since fragrance F1 is set as a prohibited fragrance in the third room R3, in step ST65 in Figure 12, the ventilation control unit 644 determines YES and executes the process of step ST66. That is, the ventilation control unit 644 sets the ventilation device 4 in the third room R3 (prohibited room) to supply air mode and sets the ventilation device 4 in the first room R1 (target room) to exhaust mode. Then, the ventilation control unit 644 performs the processing in steps ST67 to ST71 to make the first airflow rate and the second airflow rate the same.

[0137] Figure 15 shows the airflow AF in the house 10 when the fragrance generator 2 is started in the first room R1, and then the fragrance generator 2 is started in the second room R2. The ventilation control unit 644 executes the process in step ST61 and understands that the fragrance generator 2 in the second room R2 has started operating. The fragrance generator 2 in the second room R2 generates, for example, fragrance F2. Here, as shown in Figure 15, there is no undercut UC between the first room R1 and the second room R2, and the first room R1 and the second room R2 are not in communication. As stated above, "adjacent room" refers to a room that is adjacent to a predetermined room and is in communication with that predetermined room. For this reason, in the example shown in Figure 15, the first room R1 is not an adjacent room to the second room R2. And since no fragrance is generated in the third room R3 and the fourth room R4, which are adjacent rooms to the second room R2, the ventilation control unit 644 determines NO in step ST62. Then, in the fourth room R4, since scent F2 is set as a prohibited scent, the ventilation control unit 644 determines YES in step ST65. Next, in step ST66, the ventilation control unit 644 sets the ventilation device 4 of the second room R2 (target room) to exhaust mode and the ventilation device 4 of the fourth room R4 (prohibited room) to supply air mode. Then, the ventilation control unit 644 executes the processes of steps ST67 to ST71 to make the first airflow rate and the second airflow rate the same.

[0138] In the wind direction control according to the first example, the ventilation devices 4 in the first room R1 and the second room R2 are set to exhaust mode, and fragrances F1 and F2 are exhausted to the outside of the house 10, thus preventing fragrances F1 and F2 from mixing in any of the rooms. As a result, it is possible to supply fragrance to each of the first room R1 and the second room R2 of the house 10 while preventing the fragrances from mixing.

[0139] Furthermore, in the airflow control according to the first example, if a fragrance designated as a prohibited fragrance in the third room R3 is present in the first room R1, the ventilation device 4 in the first room R1 is set to exhaust mode, and the ventilation device 4 in the third room R3 is set to supply mode. Similarly, if a fragrance designated as a prohibited fragrance in the fourth room R4 is present in the second room R2, the ventilation device 4 in the second room R2 is set to exhaust mode, and the ventilation device 4 in the fourth room R4 is set to supply mode. As a result, the third room R3 becomes positively pressurized relative to the first room R1, and the fourth room R4 becomes positively pressurized relative to the second room R2, creating an airflow direction in which air from the third room R3 flows into the first room R1 and air from the fourth room R4 flows into the second room R2. In other words, an airflow direction is created that prevents prohibited fragrances from entering the prohibited rooms. In this way, a living space can be created in which each user can enjoy their preferred fragrance without worrying about other users.

[0140] Furthermore, in the wind direction control described in the first example, the ventilation control unit 644 adjusts the airflow so that the first airflow (total supply air volume) and the second airflow (total exhaust air volume) are equal, thereby preventing an imbalance between the total supply air volume and the total exhaust air volume. As a result, a deterioration in the air quality of the house 10 can be prevented.

[0141] Furthermore, in the first example, we described an example where fragrance F2 is generated in the second room R2, but instead, fragrance F1 may be generated in the second room R2. In other words, the same type of fragrance may be generated in both the first room R1 and the second room R2. In this case, in step ST66, the ventilation device 4 in the second room R2 (target room) is set to exhaust mode, and the ventilation device 4 in the third room R3 (forbidden room) is set to supply mode. As a result, the inflow of fragrance F1 from the second room R2 into the first room R1 is suppressed, thus preventing the mixing of similar fragrances.

[0142] A second example of airflow control will be described with reference to Figures 16 and 17. In this second example, we assume a case where the fragrance generator 2 in the third room R3 of the house 10 is activated, and then the fragrance generator 2 in the first room R1 is activated. Figure 16 is a schematic diagram showing the house 10 in a normal state according to the second example. Figure 17 is a schematic diagram showing the airflow in the house 10 when the fragrance generator 2 in the third room R3 is activated.

[0143] The house 10 shown in Figure 16 has the same configuration as the house 10 shown in Figure 13. The house 10 shown in Figure 16 differs from the house 10 in Figure 13 in that fragrance F1 is not set as a prohibited fragrance in the third room R3, and fragrance F2 is not set as a prohibited fragrance in the fourth room R4.

[0144] As shown in Figure 17, when the fragrance generator 2 is started in the third room R3, the ventilation control unit 644 executes the process in step ST61 to recognize that the fragrance generator 2 in the third room R3 has started operating. The fragrance generator 2 in the third room R3 generates, for example, fragrance F1. As shown in Figure 17, since no fragrance is generated in the adjacent rooms to the third room R3 (first room R1, second room R2, and fourth room R4), the ventilation control unit 644 determines NO in the process of step ST62. Also, since there are no rooms where fragrance F1 is set as a prohibited fragrance, the ventilation control unit 644 determines NO in the process of step ST65. In this case, the ventilation control unit 644 sets the ventilation device 4 in the third room R3 to an arbitrary operating mode. Then, the ventilation control unit 644 executes the processes in steps ST67 to ST71 to match the first airflow rate and the second airflow rate.

[0145] Next, the fragrance generator 2 is started in the first room R1. The ventilation control unit 644 executes the process in step ST61 and understands that the fragrance generator 2 in the first room R1 has started operating. The fragrance generator 2 in the first room R1 generates, for example, fragrance F2. In the second example, since fragrance is being generated in the third room R3, which is adjacent to the first room R1, the ventilation control unit 644 determines YES in the process of step ST62. Next, in the process of step ST63, the ventilation control unit 644 determines whether there are any other adjacent rooms to the first room R1. As described above, the second room R2 is not connected to the first room R1, so the second room R2 is not an adjacent room to the first room R1. For this reason, in the examples shown in Figures 16 and 17, there are no other adjacent rooms to the first room R1. Therefore, in this case, in step ST53, the ventilation control unit 644 determines NO and proceeds to step ST72.

[0146] In step ST72, the fragrance control unit 643 stops the operation of the fragrance generator 2 in the first room R1. If the ventilation device 4 in the first room R1 is set to exhaust mode and the ventilation device 4 in the third room R3 is set to supply mode, the air from the third room R3 may flow into the first room R1, causing fragrance F1 and fragrance F2 to mix. Also, if the ventilation device 4 in the first room R1 is set to supply mode and the ventilation device 4 in the third room R3 is set to exhaust mode, the air from the first room R1 may flow into the third room R3, causing fragrance F1 and fragrance F2 to mix. Thus, in a situation where fragrance is being generated in an adjacent room and there are no other adjacent rooms, it is expected that multiple fragrances will mix whether the ventilation device 4 in the first room R1 is set to supply mode or exhaust mode. Therefore, in step ST72, the fragrance control unit 643 stops the operation of the fragrance generator 2 in the first room R1. This prevents the scents from mixing together.

[0147] Furthermore, if the first room R1 and the second room R2 are connected by an undercut UC or the like, the mixing of fragrances can be prevented by airflow control by the ventilation control unit 644. Figure 18 shows the airflow in the house 10 when the first room R1 and the second room R2 are connected. In other words, it shows the airflow when there is another adjacent room (second room R2) to the first room R1. In this case, unlike the second example, the ventilation control unit 644 determines YES in step ST63 of Figure 12, so the process proceeds to step ST64. Then, in step ST64, the ventilation control unit 644 sets the ventilation mode of the ventilation device 4 in the other adjacent room (second room R2) to supply air mode, and sets the ventilation mode of the ventilation devices 4 in the target room (first room R1) and the adjacent room (third room R3) to exhaust mode. In this way, the fragrance F1 from the first room R1 and the fragrance F2 from the third room R3 are exhausted to the outside of the house 10, thus preventing the multiple fragrances from mixing inside the house 10.

[0148] As shown in the example in Figure 18, when fragrance is generated in at least two rooms, Room 1 R1 and Room 3 R3, the ventilation devices 4 located in each of the two rooms are set to exhaust mode, so that the air from the two rooms is exhausted to the outside of the building. This prevents air from one of the two rooms (e.g., Room 1 R1) from flowing into the other room (e.g., Room 3 R3), and prevents air from one of the two rooms from flowing into the other. As a result, it is possible to prevent the fragrances generated in each of the multiple rooms from mixing.

[0149] As described above, in the ventilation system 1 according to this embodiment, the operation of the fragrance generator 2 in each room is controlled based on the individual's preference for and sensitivity to fragrances. Then, the airflow direction between rooms is controlled by switching the mode of the ventilation system in each room based on the operating status of the fragrance generator 2 in each room. As a result, the mixing of multiple fragrances is prevented, and the generation of unpleasant odors can be efficiently prevented. In addition, since different fragrances can be enjoyed in each room, an active fragrance healing effect can be achieved in each room. Furthermore, since the spray interval for each user is controlled based on preference information and concentration information, the user's exposure to chemical substances (fragrance components) can be reduced.

[0150] The following describes various modifications of the previously described embodiment. These modifications can be applied in any combination.

[0151] (1) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the fragrance control unit 643 stops the operation of the fragrance generator 2 when the kitchen ventilation system is operating or when a window is open. However, the fragrance control unit 643 may continue the operation of the fragrance generator 2 when the kitchen ventilation system is operating or when a window is open.

[0152] (2) The ventilation control unit 644 may increase the ventilation rate of the ventilation device 4 located in the non-living room after a user has left the non-living room. This prevents the mixing of the scent set by the user who was using the non-living room (the user who has left the non-living room) and the scent set by the next user who will use the non-living room (the user who will use the non-living room in their place). The departure of a user from a non-living room can be detected by various sensors such as an illuminance sensor.

[0153] (3) In the above embodiment, a dwelling 10 having a first room R1, a second room R2, a third room R3, and a fourth room R4 was described, but the configuration of the dwelling 10 is not limited to this. The dwelling 10 is a building that has at least two rooms. Each of the at least two rooms may be located far apart from each other, separated by a corridor or the like, or they may be adjacent to each other.

[0154] Furthermore, the embodiments described above mainly include inventions having the following configurations.

[0155] The first invention relates to a building ventilation system comprising: a plurality of fragrance generating devices arranged in a plurality of rooms within a building; a plurality of ventilation devices arranged in the plurality of rooms; and a control device for controlling the operation of the plurality of ventilation devices, wherein each of the plurality of ventilation devices is located in each of the plurality of rooms and is switchable between an air supply mode that supplies outside air from outside the building to the room and an exhaust mode that exhausts the air from the room to the outside, and the control device controls the airflow direction between the rooms by switching the operating mode of each of the ventilation devices based on the operating status of the plurality of fragrance generating devices.

[0156] The second invention relates to a building ventilation system according to the first invention, wherein the plurality of rooms includes at least two rooms, two of the plurality of fragrance generators are located in each of the two rooms, and the control device may set the ventilation device located in each of the two rooms to the exhaust mode when the two fragrance generators generate different fragrances.

[0157] The third invention relates to a building ventilation system according to the first or second invention, wherein a prohibited scent, which is a scent that prohibits the inflow of another room into the room, can be set for each room in a database that the control device can refer to, and the control device may set the ventilation device in the first room to the exhaust mode and the ventilation device in the second room to the supply mode if the scent generating device located in the first room of at least two of the plurality of rooms is emitting a specific scent, and that specific scent is set as the prohibited scent in the second room of the other of the two rooms.

[0158] The fourth invention relates to a building ventilation system according to any one of the first to third inventions, wherein the control device controls the operation of each of the plurality of ventilation devices to match a first airflow rate indicating the total amount of air supplied by the ventilation devices set to supply mode with a second airflow rate indicating the total amount of air exhausted by the ventilation devices set to exhaust mode.

[0159] The fifth invention relates to a building ventilation system according to any one of the first to fourth inventions, wherein the control device acquires preference information indicating the user's preference for a specific scent, determines whether the specific scent is the user's preferred scent based on the preference information, and if it determines that the specific scent is not the user's preferred scent, it may set the specific scent as a prohibited scent.

[0160] The sixth invention relates to a building ventilation system according to any one of the first to fifth inventions, wherein the control device, when it determines that the specific scent is a scent preferred by the user, acquires concentration information indicating the user's evaluation of the concentration of the specific scent, determines whether the concentration of the specific scent is appropriate based on the concentration information, and if it determines that the concentration of the specific scent is inappropriate, it may set the specific scent as a prohibited scent.

[0161] The seventh invention relates to a building ventilation system according to the third invention, wherein the plurality of rooms include a common room used by a plurality of users, the database allows each user to set their preferred concentration of a particular scent, and the control device may, when the scent generator located in the common room generates the particular scent, control the scent generator based on the lowest concentration among the preferred concentrations set for each user.

[0162] The eighth invention relates to a building ventilation system according to any one of the first to seventh inventions, wherein the plurality of rooms include non-habitable rooms, and the control device, when the fragrance generating device located in the non-habitable room generates a fragrance, calculates the time required for the fragrance concentration in the non-habitable room to reach a predetermined concentration, and may set the planned operating time of the fragrance generating device to be less than the required time.

[0163] The ventilation method according to the ninth invention relates to a ventilation system for a building comprising: a plurality of fragrance generating devices arranged in a plurality of rooms within the building; and a ventilation device arranged in each of the plurality of rooms, which can switch between an air supply mode for supplying outside air from outside the building to the room and an exhaust mode for exhausting the air from the room to the outside, wherein the ventilation method is executed by a control device, the control device acquires first information indicating the operating status of the plurality of fragrance generating devices, and controls the airflow direction between the rooms by switching the operating mode of the ventilation device based on the first information.

[0164] The tenth invention relates to a program for causing a control device to perform processing in a building ventilation system comprising: a plurality of fragrance generating devices arranged in a plurality of rooms within a building; and a ventilation device arranged in each of the plurality of rooms, which can switch between an air supply mode for supplying outside air from outside the building to the room and an exhaust mode for exhausting the air from the room to the outside. By executing the program, the control device acquires first information indicating the operating status of the plurality of fragrance generating devices, and controls the airflow direction between the rooms by switching the operating mode of the ventilation device based on the first information. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0165] 1: Ventilation system 2: Fragrance Generator 3: Environmental sensors 4: Ventilation system 5: Equipment Sensors 6: Control device 10: Housing 61: Input section 62: Communications Department 63: Storage section 64: Processing Unit 630: Program 641: Acquisition Department 642: User Data Collection Department 643: Aroma Control Unit 644: Ventilation Control Unit R1: Room 1 R2: Room 2 R3: Room 3 R4: Room 4 T1: First data table (an example of a database) T2: Second data table (an example of a database) UC: Undercut

Claims

1. Multiple fragrance generators placed in multiple rooms within the building, Multiple ventilation devices arranged in the aforementioned multiple rooms, The system includes a control device that controls the operation of the plurality of ventilation devices, Each of the aforementioned plurality of ventilation devices is located in each of the plurality of rooms and is capable of switching between an air supply mode, which supplies outside air from the outside of the building to the room, and an exhaust mode, which exhausts the air from the room to the outside. The control device controls the airflow between rooms by switching the operating mode of each ventilation device based on the operating status of the plurality of fragrance generating devices. Building ventilation system.

2. The aforementioned plurality of rooms include at least two rooms, Two of the aforementioned multiple fragrance generating devices are placed in each of the two rooms. The control device, when the two fragrance generators generate different fragrances, sets the ventilation device located in each of the two rooms to the exhaust mode. A building ventilation system according to claim 1.

3. In the database accessible by the control device, a prohibited scent, which is a scent that prevents the inflow of another room into its own room, can be set for each room. The control device, when the fragrance generator located in the first room of at least two of the plurality of rooms is emitting a specific fragrance, and that specific fragrance is set as a prohibited fragrance in the second room of the other of the two rooms, sets the ventilation device in the first room to the exhaust mode and the ventilation device in the second room to the supply mode. A building ventilation system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The control device controls the operation of each of the plurality of ventilation devices to match a first airflow rate indicating the total supply air volume of the ventilation device set to supply air mode with a second airflow rate indicating the total exhaust air volume of the ventilation device set to exhaust air mode. A building ventilation system according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The control device is We obtain preference information that indicates the user's preference for a specific scent. Based on the aforementioned preference information, it is determined whether the specific scent is a scent preferred by the user. If it is determined that the aforementioned specific scent is not to the user's liking, the user sets that specific scent as a prohibited scent. A building ventilation system according to claim 3.

6. The control device is If it is determined that the particular scent is the user's preferred scent, concentration information indicating the user's evaluation of the concentration of the particular scent is obtained. Based on the aforementioned concentration information, it is determined whether the concentration of the specific fragrance is appropriate. If it is determined that the concentration of the aforementioned specific scent is inappropriate, the aforementioned specific scent shall be set as a prohibited scent. A building ventilation system according to claim 5.

7. The aforementioned multiple rooms include a shared room used by multiple users, In the aforementioned database, users can set their preferred concentration for a specific scent. When the fragrance generator located in the common room emits the specific fragrance, the control device controls the fragrance generator based on the lowest concentration among the preferred concentrations set for each user. A building ventilation system according to claim 3.

8. The aforementioned multiple rooms include non-habitable rooms, The control device, when the fragrance generating device located in the non-living room generates a fragrance, The time required for the fragrance concentration in the non-habitable room to reach a predetermined concentration is calculated. Set the scheduled operating time of the fragrance generator to less than the aforementioned required time. A building ventilation system according to claim 1 or 2.

9. In a building ventilation system comprising multiple fragrance generating devices arranged in multiple rooms within the building, and a ventilation device arranged in each of the multiple rooms, which can switch between an air supply mode that supplies outside air from outside the building to the room and an exhaust mode that exhausts the air from the room to the outside, the ventilation method executed by the control device is as follows: The control device, First information indicating the operating status of the multiple fragrance generating devices is acquired, Based on the first information, the operating mode of the ventilation device is switched to control the airflow direction between the rooms. Ventilation methods.

10. A ventilation system for a building comprising: multiple fragrance generating devices arranged in multiple rooms within the building; and a ventilation device arranged in each of the multiple rooms, which can switch between an air supply mode that supplies outside air from outside the building to the room and an exhaust mode that exhausts the air from the room to the outside, wherein the program causes the control device to execute a process, By executing the program, the control device will First information indicating the operating status of the multiple fragrance generating devices is acquired, Based on the first information, the operating mode of the ventilation device is switched to control the airflow direction between the rooms. program.

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