Air conditioning system

Abstract

To realize indoor comfort air environment.SOLUTION: An air treatment device ventilates a room (I). The air treatment device comprises a control unit (C) that controls the operation of the air treatment device. The control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform either exhaust operation in which air from inside the room (I) is sent to the outside, or air supply operation in which air from the outside is sent to the room (I), based on indoor or outdoor environment.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air handling apparatus.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a ventilator. The ventilator includes a receiving unit that receives atmospheric pollution prediction-related information, a determination unit that determines whether to introduce outdoor air based on the atmospheric pollution prediction-related information, and a control unit that controls outdoor air introduction (air supply operation) in accordance with the determination result of the determination unit. The ventilator ventilates indoor air by performing the air supply operation.

PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0003]

PATENT DOCUMENT 1

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0004] However, in the configuration of Patent Document 1, when the determination unit determines that the outdoor environment has deteriorated and the outdoor air is polluted, the air supply operation is not performed, and a state is reached in which indoor ventilation cannot be performed. As a result, even if the indoor air environment has deteriorated, indoor ventilation is not performed, which may make it difficult to achieve a comfortable indoor air environment.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an air handling apparatus capable of achieving a comfortable indoor air environment.

MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0006] The air treatment device of the first embodiment ventilates a room (I). The air treatment device includes a control unit (C) that controls the operation of the air treatment device, and the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform either an exhaust operation that sends indoor (I) air to the outside, or a supply operation that sends outside air to the room (I), based on the indoor or outdoor environment.

[0007] In the first embodiment, ventilation can be performed by taking advantage of the characteristics of both supply air ventilation and exhaust ventilation, thereby achieving a comfortable indoor environment (I).

[0008] In a second embodiment, in the first embodiment, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform either the exhaust operation or the supply operation based on the component values ​​in the indoor (I) air or the component values ​​in the outdoor air, wherein the component values ​​represent the amount of a predetermined gas component in the air, the concentration of a predetermined gas component in the air, or the amount of particles in the air.

[0009] In the second embodiment, it is possible to suppress the condition in which the room (I) becomes filled with an unpleasant odor.

[0010] In the third embodiment, in the first embodiment, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform either the exhaust operation or the supply air operation based on the humidity inside (I) or the humidity outside.

[0011] In the third embodiment, it is possible to prevent the humidity in the room (I) from becoming too high or too low, which would be uncomfortable for the user.

[0012] A fourth aspect is the second aspect, in which the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform either the exhaust operation or the supply air operation based on information indicating the component values ​​of the room (I) acquired over time.

[0013] In the fourth embodiment, it is possible to determine whether to perform exhaust operation or supply air operation by taking into consideration the temporal changes in the component values ​​in the room (I).

[0014] A fifth aspect is the second or fourth aspect, wherein the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation when the rate of change of the component values ​​in the room (I) with respect to the change in time is greater than a predetermined rate.

[0015] In the fifth embodiment, the room (I) can be properly ventilated.

[0016] The sixth aspect is, in the second or fourth aspect, the control unit (C) acquires a first sensor signal indicating the component values ​​in the room (I), and if the high-frequency components of a predetermined frequency or higher among the frequency components included in the waveform representing the first sensor signal are in a predetermined proportion or higher, the air treatment device performs the exhaust operation.

[0017] In the sixth embodiment, it is possible to prevent the room (I) from becoming filled with a predetermined gas component or particles.

[0018] A seventh embodiment includes a storage unit for storing a first prediction model for outputting a predicted value of the first distance between the source of the predetermined gas component and the indoor unit (30) of the air treatment device, in which case the control unit (C) outputs the predicted value of the first distance using the first prediction model, and when the predicted value of the first distance becomes smaller than a first predetermined distance, it causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.

[0019] In the seventh embodiment, it is possible to prevent the room (I) from becoming filled with a predetermined gas component.

[0020] The eighth aspect is, in the second or fourth aspect, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation when the level of the component value in the room (I) is above a predetermined level, and causes the air treatment device to perform the supply air operation when the level of the component value in the room (I) is below a predetermined level.

[0021] In the eighth aspect, it is possible to introduce outdoor air into the room (I) while preventing the room (I) from being filled with a predetermined gas component or particles.

[0022] According to a ninth aspect, in any one of the first to eighth aspects, the air processing apparatus includes an indoor heat exchanger (34) provided in an indoor unit (30) of the air processing apparatus, and when the air processing apparatus receives a stop instruction in a state where moisture adheres to the indoor heat exchanger (34), the control unit (C) causes the air processing apparatus to perform the exhaust operation.

[0023] In the ninth aspect, by discharging the moisture adhering to the indoor heat exchanger (34) to the outside through the exhaust operation, an increase in the humidity of the room (I) can be suppressed.

[0024] According to a tenth aspect, in the ninth aspect, the case where the air processing apparatus receives a stop instruction in a state where moisture adheres to the indoor heat exchanger (34) includes a case where the air processing apparatus performing a cooling operation receives a stop instruction.

[0025] In the tenth aspect, when the cooling operation is restarted, the cooling operation can be started in a state where adhesion of moisture to the indoor heat exchanger (34) is suppressed, so that an increase in the humidity of the room (I) can be suppressed.

[0026] According to an eleventh aspect, in the ninth aspect, the case where the air processing apparatus receives a stop instruction in a state where moisture adheres to the indoor heat exchanger (34) includes a case where the air processing apparatus performing a cooling operation receives a stop instruction and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) is lower than the dew point temperature.

[0027] In the eleventh aspect, an increase in humidity can be suppressed.

[0028] According to a twelfth aspect, in the third aspect, the control unit (C) causes the air processing apparatus to perform one of the exhaust operation and the air supply operation based on information indicating the humidity of the room (I) acquired over time.

[0029] In the twelfth embodiment, it is possible to decide whether to perform exhaust operation or supply air operation by taking into account the temporal change in humidity in the room (I).

[0030] The 13th aspect is that, in the third aspect or the 12th aspect, if the average humidity of the room (I) over a predetermined period of time is outside the comfort zone for a predetermined humidity and predetermined conditions are met, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation, and the predetermined conditions include a condition in which the rate of change in the humidity of the room (I) with respect to the change in time is greater than a predetermined rate.

[0031] In the 13th embodiment, the humidity in the room (I) can be appropriately adjusted.

[0032] The 14th aspect is that, in the third aspect or the 12th aspect, if the average humidity of the room (I) over a predetermined period of time is outside the comfort zone for a predetermined humidity and predetermined conditions are met, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation, the control unit (C) acquires a second sensor signal indicating the humidity of the room (I), and the predetermined conditions include a condition in which high-frequency components of a predetermined frequency or higher among the frequency components included in the waveform representing the second sensor signal are at or above a predetermined proportion.

[0033] In the 14th embodiment, it is possible to suppress the humidity in the room (I) from becoming uncomfortably humid.

[0034] The 15th embodiment includes a storage unit for storing a second prediction model for outputting a predicted value of the second distance between the source that generates the humidity change and the indoor unit (30) of the air treatment device, the control unit (C) outputs a predicted value of the second distance between the source and the indoor unit (30) using the second prediction model, and causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation when the predicted value of the second distance becomes smaller than a second predetermined distance.

[0035] In the 15th embodiment, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of an unpleasant humidity level in the room (I).

[0036] The sixteenth aspect is, in the third or twelfth aspect, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation if the deviation of the average humidity of the room (I) over a predetermined time period from a comfortable zone of a predetermined humidity is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount, and causes the air treatment device to perform the supply air operation if the deviation is less than the predetermined amount.

[0037] In the 16th embodiment, outside air can be introduced into the room (I) while suppressing the development of an uncomfortable humidity level in the room (I).

[0038] The 17th aspect is the third or 12th aspect, wherein the air treatment device comprises an indoor heat exchanger (34) provided in the indoor unit (30) of the air treatment device, the indoor unit (30) is provided with a passage that guides the air sent from outside to the indoor unit (30) during the supply air operation to the intake side of the indoor heat exchanger (34), and the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the supply air operation when the humidity outside is higher than the humidity inside (I).

[0039] In the 17th embodiment, since the outside air sent to the indoor unit (30) is immediately dehumidified by the indoor heat exchanger (34), the dehumidification of the outside air can be performed more effectively than if the outside air were mixed with the indoor air (I) and diluted before being dehumidified by the indoor heat exchanger (34).

[0040] The 18th embodiment is one of the first to 17 embodiments, wherein the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation when the air treatment device is started up.

[0041] In the 18th embodiment, the generation of unpleasant odors in the room (I) when the air treatment device is started can be suppressed.

[0042] The 19th embodiment is an embodiment of any one of the 1st to 18th embodiments in which the air treatment device includes a fan (13) that sends outside air into the room (I), and the control unit (C) stops the rotation of the fan (13) when the air treatment device is started.

[0043] In the 19th embodiment, it is possible to suppress the sending of outside air into the room (I) when the air treatment device is started up.

[0044] The 20th aspect is an aspect of any one of the first to 19 aspects, wherein the air treatment device includes a wind deflector (37) that defines the direction in which air is supplied in a room (I), and the control unit (C) closes the wind deflector (37) when the air treatment device is started.

[0045] In the 20th embodiment, it is possible to suppress the sending of outside air into the room (I) when the air treatment device is started up.

[0046] The 21st embodiment is that, in the second embodiment or the fourth embodiment, if the component values ​​in the room (I) increase over time during the supply air operation and the degree of the increase exceeds a predetermined level, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.

[0047] In the 21st embodiment, it is possible to suppress the state in which the air in the room (I) becomes filled with a predetermined gas component or particles. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0048] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic overall diagram of the air conditioning system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a diagram showing the refrigerant piping and airflow of an air conditioning system. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a vertical cross-sectional view of an indoor air conditioning unit. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main elements of an air conditioning system. [Figure 5]Figure 5 shows the state of the second switching damper and the airflow inside the damper casing during supply air operation. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows the state of the second switching damper and the airflow inside the damper casing during exhaust operation. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing a first example of the operation of an air conditioning system. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing a second example of the operation of an air conditioning system. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing a third example of the operation of an air conditioning system. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing a fourth example of the operation of an air conditioning system. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing a fifth example of the operation of an air conditioning system. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the sixth example of the operation of an air conditioning system. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the seventh example of the operation of an air conditioning system. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing the eighth example of the operation of an air conditioning system. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing the ninth example of the operation of an air conditioning system. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a diagram showing the refrigerant piping and airflow of a modified air conditioning system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0049] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible without departing from the technical idea of ​​this disclosure. Since the drawings are for conceptual illustration of this disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary for ease of understanding.

[0050] The following exemplary embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0051] (1) Overview of the configuration of the air conditioning system Air conditioning system (1) is an example of an air treatment device. The air treatment device only needs to have the function and configuration to perform at least exhaust operation and ventilation operation from among cooling operation, heating operation, supply air operation, exhaust operation, dehumidification operation, humidification operation, dehumidifying cooling operation, and humidifying heating operation. Air conditioning system (1) adjusts the temperature and humidity of the air in the room (I). As shown in Figure 1, air conditioning system (1) has an air conditioning outdoor unit (10) and an air conditioning indoor unit (30). The air conditioning outdoor unit (10) is installed outdoors, and the air conditioning indoor unit (30) is installed indoors (I). Air conditioning system (1) is a pair type having one air conditioning indoor unit (30) and one air conditioning outdoor unit (10). Air conditioning system (1) has a humidity control unit (20) which is a humidity control element. Air conditioning system (1) has the function of humidifying and dehumidifying the air. The air conditioning system (1) further has the function of ventilating the room (I).

[0052] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the air conditioning unit (1) has a hose (2), a liquid connecting pipe (3), and a gas connecting pipe (4). The indoor air conditioning unit (30) and the humidity control unit (20) are connected to each other via the hose (2). The indoor air conditioning unit (30) and the outdoor air conditioning unit (10) are connected to each other via the liquid connecting pipe (3) and the gas connecting pipe (4). This constitutes an air conditioning element (5) including a refrigerant circuit (R). The refrigerant circuit (R) is filled with refrigerant. The refrigerant is difluoromethane. However, the refrigerant is not limited to difluoromethane. The refrigerant circuit (R) performs a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle.

[0053] The refrigerant circuit (R) mainly comprises a compressor (12), an outdoor heat exchanger (14), an expansion valve (15), a four-way switching valve (16), and an indoor heat exchanger (34).

[0054] The refrigerant circuit (R) performs a first refrigeration cycle and a second refrigeration cycle in response to the switching of the four-way switching valve (16). The first refrigeration cycle is a refrigeration cycle in which the indoor heat exchanger (34) functions as an evaporator and the outdoor heat exchanger (14) functions as a heat radiator. The second refrigeration cycle is a refrigeration cycle in which the indoor heat exchanger (34) functions as a heat radiator and the outdoor heat exchanger (14) functions as an evaporator.

[0055] (2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Air conditioner outdoor unit As shown in Figures 2 and 4, the air conditioning outdoor unit (10) includes an outdoor casing (11), a compressor (12), an outdoor fan (13), an outdoor heat exchanger (14), an expansion valve (15), and a four-way switching valve (16).

[0056] A partition plate (18) is provided inside the outdoor casing (11). The partition plate (18) divides the inside of the outdoor casing (11) into a first space (S1) and a second space (S2). The first space (S1) is provided with a compressor (12) and an outdoor heat exchanger (14). More precisely, the first space (S1) is provided with a compressor (12), an outdoor fan (13), an outdoor heat exchanger (14), an expansion valve (15), and a four-way switching valve (16). The outdoor casing (11) has an outdoor intake port (11a), an outdoor outlet port (11b), a moisture-absorbing side intake port (61a), and a moisture-absorbing side exhaust port (61b). The outdoor intake port (11a) is formed on the rear side of the outdoor casing (11). The outdoor intake port (11a) is an opening for drawing in outdoor air. The outdoor outlet port (11b) is formed on the front side of the outdoor casing (11). The outdoor outlet port (11b) is an opening for blowing out air that has passed through the outdoor heat exchanger (14). Inside the outdoor casing (11), an outdoor air passage (11c) is formed, extending from the outdoor intake port (11a) to the outdoor outlet port (11b).

[0057] The compressor (12) draws in low-pressure gaseous refrigerant and compresses it. The compressor (12) is driven by the first motor (M1). The compressor (12) is a variable-capacity compressor in which power is supplied to the first motor (M1) from an inverter circuit. The compressor (12) is configured so that its operating capacity can be changed by adjusting the operating frequency (rotational speed) of the first motor (M1). The compressor (12) is a so-called high-pressure dome type, in which its interior is filled with high-pressure refrigerant. When the compressor (12) is in operation, the heat emitted from the compressor (12) is released into the surroundings.

[0058] The outdoor fan (13) is positioned in the outdoor air passage (11c). The outdoor fan (13) rotates under the drive of the second motor (M2). The air transported by the outdoor fan (13) is drawn into the outdoor casing (11) from the outdoor intake (11a). This air flows through the outdoor air passage (11c) and is blown out of the outdoor casing (11) from the outdoor outlet (11b). The outdoor fan (13) transports the outdoor air so that it passes through the outdoor heat exchanger (14).

[0059] The outdoor heat exchanger (14) is positioned upstream of the outdoor fan (13) in the outdoor air passage (11c). In this example, the outdoor heat exchanger (14) is a fin-and-tube type heat exchanger. The outdoor heat exchanger (14) exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing inside it and the outdoor air transported by the outdoor fan (13).

[0060] The expansion valve (15) reduces the pressure of the refrigerant. The expansion valve (15) is an electrically operated expansion valve with an adjustable opening. The pressure reduction mechanism may be a temperature-sensitive expansion valve, an expander, a capillary tube, etc. The expansion valve (15) only needs to be connected to the liquid line of the refrigerant circuit (R) and may be installed in the indoor unit (30) of the air conditioner.

[0061] The four-way switching valve (16) has a first port (P1), a second port (P2), a third port (P3), and a fourth port (P4). The first port (P1) is connected to the discharge section of the compressor (12). The second port (P2) is connected to the suction section of the compressor (12). The third port (P3) is connected to the gas end of the outdoor heat exchanger (14). The fourth port (P4) is connected to the gas connecting pipe (4).

[0062] The four-way switching valve (16) can be switched between a first state (shown by the solid line in Figure 2) and a second state (shown by the dashed line in Figure 2). In the first state, the four-way switching valve (16) connects the first port (P1) to the third port (P3) and also connects the second port (P2) to the fourth port (P4). In the second state, the four-way switching valve (16) connects the first port (P1) to the fourth port (P4) and also connects the second port (P2) to the third port (P3).

[0063] (2-2) Humidity Control Unit The humidity control unit (20) is installed outdoors. In this example, the humidity control unit (20) is integrated with the air conditioning outdoor unit (10). The humidity control unit (20) sends humidity-controlled air to the air conditioning indoor unit (30). The humidity control unit (20) includes an outdoor casing (11), a humidity control rotor (22), a first fan (26), a second fan (23), a heater (25), a first switching damper (24), and a second switching damper (29) (see Figure 5). The outdoor casing (11) is shared by both the air conditioning outdoor unit (10) and the humidity control unit (20).

[0064] The second space (S2) described above is partitioned inside the outdoor casing (11). The second space (S2) is provided with a humidity control rotor (22) and a heater (25). More precisely, the second space (S2) is provided with a humidity control rotor (22), a first fan (26), a second fan (23), a heater (25), a first switching damper (24), and a second switching damper (29). The outdoor casing (11) has an intake / exhaust port (21a), a connection port (21b), and an outdoor exhaust port (21c). The intake / exhaust port (21a) is an opening through which outdoor air and indoor air circulate. Inside the outdoor casing (11), a first passage (27) is formed that extends from the intake / exhaust port (21a) to the connection port (21b). A third passage (62) is formed inside the outdoor casing (11), extending from the moisture-absorbing intake port (61a) to the moisture-absorbing exhaust port (61b). A hose (2) is connected to the connection port (21b).

[0065] The second passage (28) is connected to the first passage (27). The second passage (28) extends from the middle of the first passage (27) to the outdoor exhaust port (21c). The inlet end of the second passage (28) is connected to the downstream side of the humidity control rotor (22) in the first passage (27) (more precisely, the downstream side of the first fan (26)). In the first passage (27) and the second passage (28), the downstream side is downstream in the direction in which air flows during supply air operation (the direction indicated by the solid arrow in Figure 2), and the upstream side is upstream in the direction in which air flows during supply air operation.

[0066] The humidity control rotor (22) is through which the air flowing through the first passage (27) passes. The humidity control rotor (22) is an adsorbent that adsorbs moisture from the air. The humidity control rotor (22) is, for example, a disc-shaped humidity control rotor having a honeycomb structure. The humidity control rotor (22) holds an adsorbent made of a hygroscopic polymer material. This hygroscopic polymer material is a type of so-called sorbent. With an adsorbent made of a hygroscopic polymer material, both the phenomenon of water vapor in the air being adsorbed onto the surface of the adsorbent and the phenomenon of water vapor being absorbed into the interior of the adsorbent occur. The adsorbent held by the humidity control rotor (22) may be an inorganic material such as silica gel, zeolite, or alumina. The adsorbent has the property of adsorbing moisture from the air. The hygroscopic material has the property of desorbing the adsorbed moisture when heated.

[0067] The humidity control rotor (22) rotates under the drive of the third motor (M3). The humidity control rotor (22) has a humidity control region (22A) located in the first passage (27). In the humidity control region (22A), a regeneration operation is performed in which moisture adsorbed on the adsorbent is released into the air, and an adsorption operation is performed in which moisture from the air is adsorbed onto the adsorbent.

[0068] The first fan (26) is positioned downstream of the humidity control region (22A) in the first passage (27). The first fan (26) transports outdoor air so that it passes through the humidity control region (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). The first fan (26) is rotated by the drive of the fourth motor (M4). The first fan (26) is configured so that the airflow can be switched between multiple stages by adjusting the rotation speed of the fourth motor (M4).

[0069] The heater (25) is positioned upstream of the humidity control region (22A) in the first passage (27). The heater (25) heats the air flowing through the first passage (27). The heater (25) is configured to have a variable output. The temperature of the air passing through the heater (25) changes according to the output of the heater (25).

[0070] The second fan (23) is positioned in the third passage (62). The second fan (23) is rotated by the drive of the sixth motor (M6). The second fan (23) transports outdoor air so that it passes through the third passage (62). The outdoor air transported by the second fan (23) is sent into the third passage (62) through the moisture-absorbing intake port (61a) and discharged to the outside through the moisture-absorbing exhaust port (61b). In the third passage (62), the adsorption area (22C) of the humidity control rotor (22) and the second fan (23) are arranged in order from the upstream side to the downstream side of the airflow.

[0071] The first switching damper (24) is provided at the connection point of the second passage (28) in the first passage (27). The flow path switching mechanism may consist of a flow path switching valve or a shutter. The first switching damper (24) switches between a third state (shown by the solid line in Figure 2) and a fourth state (shown by the dashed line in Figure 2). In the third state, the first switching damper (24) connects the first passage (27) to the inside of the hose (2) and blocks the first passage (27) to the second passage (28). In the fourth state, the first switching damper (24) blocks the first passage (27) to the inside of the hose (2) and connects the first passage (27) to the second passage (28). The state of the first switching damper (24) is switched by the drive of a power source such as a motor.

[0072] The second switching damper (29) is located in the first passage (27). As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the second switching damper (29) is provided inside the damper casing (29A). Inside the damper casing (29A), there is an internal space (S31) for the second switching damper (29), a space (S32) in which the second switching damper (29) is located, and another space (S33). The second switching damper (29) is slidably provided inside space (S32). The damper casing (29A) is provided with a first inlet / outlet (29a) and a second inlet / outlet (29b) that connect space (S32) to the outside of the damper casing (29A). The first inlet / outlet (29a) communicates with the intake / exhaust port (21a) through the first passage (27). The second inlet / outlet (29b) communicates with the connection port (21b) for the hose (2) in the outdoor casing (11) via the first passage (27). The second inlet / outlet (29b) communicates with the outdoor exhaust port (21c) via the first passage (27) and the second passage (28). The damper casing (29A) is provided with a first communication port (29c) and a second communication port (29d) that connect spaces (S32) and spaces (S33). The second switching damper (29) is switched between the fifth state and the sixth state by sliding within the space (S32). As shown in Figure 5, in the fifth state, the second switching damper (29) has the first inlet / outlet (29a) as the air intake port and the second inlet / outlet (29b) as the air exhaust port. As shown in Figure 6, the second switching damper (29) in the sixth state has a second inlet / outlet (29b) for drawing in air and a first inlet / outlet (29a) for expelling air. The state of the second switching damper (29) is switched by the drive of a power source such as a motor.

[0073] (2-3) Indoor unit of the air conditioner As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the indoor air conditioning unit (30) is installed in the room (I). The indoor air conditioning unit (30) is a wall-mounted type, installed on the wall (WL) of the room that forms the room (I). The indoor air conditioning unit (30) includes an indoor casing (31), an indoor fan (32), an air filter (33), an indoor heat exchanger (34), a drain pan (35), and an airflow adjustment unit (36).

[0074] The indoor casing (31) houses the indoor fan (32), air filter (33), indoor heat exchanger (34), and drain pan (35). The indoor casing (31) has an indoor intake port (31a) and an indoor outlet port (31b). The indoor intake port (31a) is located on the upper side of the indoor casing (31). The indoor intake port (31a) is an opening for drawing in indoor air. The indoor outlet port (31b) is located on the lower side of the indoor casing (31). The indoor outlet port (31b) is an opening for blowing out air after heat exchange or air for humidity control. Inside the indoor casing (31), there is an indoor air passage (31c) that runs from the indoor intake port (31a) to the indoor outlet port (31b).

[0075] The indoor fan (32) is positioned approximately in the center of the indoor air passage (31c). The indoor fan (32) is, for example, a cross-flow fan. The indoor fan (32) rotates under the drive of the fifth motor (M5). The indoor fan (32) takes in air from the room (I) into the indoor air passage (31c) and transports it. The air transported by the indoor fan (32) is drawn into the indoor casing (31) from the indoor intake (31a). This air flows through the indoor air passage (31c) and is blown out of the indoor casing (31) from the indoor outlet (31b).

[0076] The indoor fan (32) transports the air from the room (I) so that it passes through the indoor heat exchanger (34). The air blown out from the indoor outlet (31b) is supplied to the room (I). The indoor fan (32) is configured so that the airflow can be switched between multiple stages by adjusting the rotation speed of the fifth motor (M5).

[0077] The air filter (33) is positioned upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (34) in the indoor air passage (31c). The air filter (33) is attached to the indoor casing (31) so that substantially all of the air supplied to the indoor heat exchanger (34) passes through. The air filter (33) collects dust particles in the air drawn in from the indoor intake (31a).

[0078] The indoor heat exchanger (34) is located upstream of the indoor fan (32) in the indoor air passage (31c). The indoor heat exchanger (34) in this example is a fin-and-tube type heat exchanger. The indoor heat exchanger (34) exchanges heat between the refrigerant inside it and the indoor air (I) transported by the indoor fan (32).

[0079] The drain pan (35) is positioned on the front lower and rear lower sides of the indoor heat exchanger (34). The drain pan (35) receives condensation water generated inside the indoor casing (31) of the indoor air conditioning unit (30). Condensation water generated on the surface of the fins of the indoor heat exchanger (34) flows down the surface due to its own weight and is collected in the drain pan (35).

[0080] The airflow adjustment unit (36) adjusts the direction of the air blown out from the indoor air outlet (31b). The airflow adjustment unit (36) has a flap (37). The flap (37) is formed in the shape of a long plate that extends along the longitudinal direction of the indoor air outlet (31b). The flap (37) rotates when driven by a motor. As the flap (37) rotates, it opens and closes the indoor air outlet (31b).

[0081] The flap (37) is configured to allow for stepwise changes in its inclination angle. The flap (37) in this example can be adjusted to six positions. These six positions include a closed position and five open positions. The five open positions include the approximately horizontal discharge position shown in Figure 3. In the closed position, the flap (37) substantially closes the indoor outlet (31b). A gap may be formed between the flap (37) in the closed position and the indoor outlet (31b). As described above, the indoor air conditioning unit (30) is connected to the humidity control unit (20) via a hose (2). The end of the hose (2) connected to the indoor air conditioning unit (30) communicates with the upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (34) in the indoor air passage (31c). Air sent from the humidity control unit (20) to the indoor air conditioning unit (30) is supplied through the hose (2) to the upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (34) in the indoor air passage (31c). The air sent from the indoor air conditioning unit (30) to the humidity control unit (20) flows into the hose (2) from upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (34) in the indoor air passage (31c).

[0082] (2-4) Remote controller As shown in Figures 2 and 4, the air conditioning unit (1) is equipped with a remote controller (40). The remote controller (40) is positioned in the room (I) where it can be operated by the user. The remote controller (40) has a display unit (41) and an input unit (42). The display unit (41) displays predetermined information. The display unit (41) is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal monitor. The predetermined information is information indicating the operating status of the air conditioning unit (1) and the set temperature. The input unit (42) receives input operations from the user to perform various settings. The input unit (42) is composed of, for example, multiple physical switches. The user can set the operating mode, target temperature, target humidity, etc. of the air conditioning unit (1) by operating the input unit (42) of the remote controller (40).

[0083] (2-5) Sensors As shown in Figures 2 and 4, the air conditioning unit (1) has multiple sensors. These multiple sensors include sensors for the refrigerant and sensors for the air. The sensors for the refrigerant include sensors for detecting the temperature and pressure of high-pressure refrigerant and sensors for detecting the temperature and pressure of low-pressure refrigerant (not shown).

[0084] The air sensors include an outdoor temperature sensor (51), an outdoor humidity sensor (52), an indoor temperature sensor (53), an indoor humidity sensor (54), and a humidity sensor (55). The outdoor temperature sensor (51) is installed in the air conditioning outdoor unit (10). The outdoor temperature sensor (51) detects the temperature of the outdoor air. In this example, the outdoor humidity sensor (52) is installed in the third passage (62) and is located upstream of the humidity control rotor (22) (for example, around the moisture intake port (61a)). The outdoor humidity sensor (52) may be installed around the outdoor intake port (11a) of the outdoor casing (11), similar to the outdoor temperature sensor (51). The outdoor humidity sensor (52) detects the humidity of the outdoor air. In this example, the outdoor humidity sensor (52) detects the relative humidity of the outdoor air, but it may also detect absolute humidity. The indoor air temperature sensor (53) and the indoor air humidity sensor (54) are installed in the indoor air conditioning unit (30). The indoor air temperature sensor (53) detects the temperature of the indoor air. The indoor air humidity sensor (54) detects the humidity of the indoor air. The indoor air humidity sensor (54) detects the relative humidity of the indoor air, but may also detect absolute humidity. In this example, the humidity sensor (55) is installed in the first passage (27). This humidity sensor (55) is located between the second inlet / outlet (29b) of the second switching damper (29) and the connection port (21b) of the outdoor casing (11). The humidity sensor (55) detects the humidity of the air flowing through the first passage (27). In this example, the humidity sensor (55) detects the relative humidity of the air, but may also detect absolute humidity.

[0085] (2-6) Control Unit As shown in Figures 2 and 4, the air conditioning system (1) has a control unit (C). The control unit (C) controls the operation of the refrigerant circuit (R). The control unit (C) controls the operation of the air conditioning outdoor unit (10), the humidity control unit (20), and the air conditioning indoor unit (30). The control unit (C) includes an outdoor control unit (OC), an indoor control unit (IC), and a remote controller (40). The outdoor control unit (OC) is provided in the air conditioning outdoor unit (10). The indoor control unit (IC) is provided in the air conditioning indoor unit (30). The indoor control unit (IC) and the outdoor control unit (OC) each include an MCU (Micro Control Unit), electrical circuits, and electronic circuits. The MCU includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, and a communication interface. The memory stores various programs for the CPU to execute.

[0086] The outdoor control unit (OC) receives the detected values ​​from the outdoor temperature sensor (51), the outdoor humidity sensor (52), and the humidity sensor (55).

[0087] The outdoor control unit (OC) is connected to the compressor (12), outdoor fan (13), expansion valve (15), and four-way directional control valve (16). The outdoor control unit (OC) outputs control signals to the compressor (12), outdoor fan (13), expansion valve (15), and four-way directional control valve (16) for starting and stopping the operation of the air conditioning outdoor unit (10). The outdoor control unit (OC) controls the operating frequency of the first motor (M1) of the compressor (12), the rotational speed of the second motor (M2) of the outdoor fan (13), the state of the four-way directional control valve (16), and the opening degree of the expansion valve (15).

[0088] The outdoor control unit (OC) is further connected to the humidity control rotor (22), the first fan (26), the second fan (23), the heater (25), and the first switching damper (24). The outdoor control unit (OC) outputs control signals to the humidity control rotor (22), the first fan (26), the second fan (23), the heater (25), and the first switching damper (24) for starting and stopping the operation of the humidity control unit (20). The outdoor control unit (OC) controls the rotational speed of the third motor (M3) of the humidity control rotor (22), the fourth motor (M4) of the first fan (26), and the sixth motor (M6) of the second fan (23), as well as the operation of the humidity control rotor (22) and the first switching damper (24), and the output of the heater (25).

[0089] The indoor control unit (IC) receives the detected values ​​from the indoor air temperature sensor (53) and the indoor air humidity sensor (54).

[0090] The indoor control unit (IC) is connected to the remote controller (40) for communication. The indoor control unit (IC) is connected to the indoor fan (32). The indoor control unit (IC) outputs control signals to the indoor fan (32) to start and stop the operation of the indoor air conditioning unit (30). The indoor control unit (IC) controls the rotation speed of the fifth motor (M5) of the indoor fan (32). The indoor control unit (IC) is connected to the outdoor control unit (OC) for communication.

[0091] The remote controller (40) is connected to the indoor control unit (IC) for communication. The remote controller (40) transmits an instruction signal to the indoor control unit (IC) to instruct the operation of the air conditioning system (1) in response to user operation at the input unit (42). When the indoor control unit (IC) receives the instruction signal from the remote controller (40), it transmits the instruction signal to the outdoor control unit (OC). The indoor control unit (IC) controls the operation of each of the above-mentioned devices of the indoor air conditioning unit (30) according to the instruction signal. When the outdoor control unit (OC) receives the instruction signal from the indoor control unit (IC), it controls the operation of each of the above-mentioned devices of the outdoor air conditioning unit (10) and the humidity control unit (20).

[0092] (3) Operating The operating modes performed by the air conditioning unit (1) include cooling operation, heating operation, supply air operation, exhaust operation, dehumidification operation, humidification operation, dehumidifying cooling operation, and humidifying heating operation. The control unit (C) performs these operations based on instruction signals from the remote controller (40).

[0093] (3-1) Cooling operation Cooling operation is an operation in which the indoor heat exchanger (34), which functions as an evaporator, cools the air in the room (I). The humidity control unit (20) is stopped. In cooling operation, the control unit (C) operates the compressor (12), the outdoor fan (13), and the indoor fan (32). The control unit (C) sets the four-way switching valve (16) to the first state. The control unit (C) adjusts the opening degree of the expansion valve (15) as appropriate. In cooling operation, the first refrigeration cycle is performed in which the compressed refrigerant dissipates heat in the outdoor heat exchanger (14) and evaporates in the indoor heat exchanger (34).

[0094] During cooling operation, the control unit (C) adjusts the target evaporation temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) so ​​that the indoor temperature detected by the indoor air temperature sensor (53) converges to the set temperature. The control unit (C) controls the rotation speed of the compressor (12) so that the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger (34) converges to the target evaporation temperature. During cooling operation, the air transported by the indoor fan (32) is cooled as it passes through the indoor heat exchanger (34). The air cooled by the indoor heat exchanger (34) is supplied to the room (I) from the indoor outlet (31b) of the indoor air conditioning unit (30).

[0095] (3-2) Heating operation Heating operation is an operation in which the indoor heat exchanger (34), which functions as a radiator, heats the air in the room (I). The humidity control unit (20) is stopped. In heating operation, the control unit (C) operates the compressor (12), the outdoor fan (13), and the indoor fan (32). The control unit (C) sets the four-way switching valve (16) to the second state. The control unit (C) adjusts the opening degree of the expansion valve (15) as appropriate. In heating operation, a second refrigeration cycle is performed in which the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (12) is released by the indoor heat exchanger (34) and evaporates by the outdoor heat exchanger (14).

[0096] During heating operation, the control unit (C) adjusts the target condensation temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) so ​​that the indoor temperature detected by the indoor air temperature sensor (53) converges to the set temperature. The control unit (C) controls the rotation speed of the compressor (12) so that the condensation temperature of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger (34) converges to the target condensation temperature. During heating operation, the air transported by the indoor fan (32) is heated as it passes through the indoor heat exchanger (34). The air heated in the indoor heat exchanger (34) is supplied to the room (I) from the indoor air outlet (31b) of the indoor air conditioning unit (30).

[0097] (3-3) Intake operation Supply air operation is the operation of supplying outdoor air to the indoor unit (I). In supply air operation, outdoor air is sent to the indoor unit (30) through the hose (2), as shown by the solid arrow in Figure 2. In supply air operation, the control unit (C) stops the heater (25), the humidity control rotor (22), and the second fan (23), and starts the first fan (26). The control unit (C) sets the first switching damper (24) to the third state (the state shown by the solid line in Figure 2) and the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state (see Figure 5). In supply air operation, the outdoor air transported by the first fan (26) is sent to the indoor unit (30) through the hose (2) and supplied to the indoor unit (I) from the indoor air outlet (31b) of the indoor unit (30). Note that supply air operation may be performed simultaneously with cooling or heating operation.

[0098] (3-4) Exhaust operation Exhaust operation is the operation of discharging indoor air to the outside. In exhaust operation, indoor air is sent to the humidity control unit (20) through the hose (2), as shown by the dashed arrow in Figure 2. In exhaust operation, the control unit (C) stops the heater (25), humidity control rotor (22), and second fan (23), and operates the first fan (26). The control unit (C) sets the first switching damper (24) to the third state (shown by the solid line in Figure 2) and the second switching damper (29) to the sixth state (see Figure 6). In exhaust operation, the indoor air transported by the first fan (26) is sent to the humidity control unit (20) through the hose (2) and discharged to the outside from the intake / exhaust port (21a) of the humidity control unit (20). Note that exhaust operation may be performed simultaneously with cooling or heating operation.

[0099] (3-5) Dehumidification operation In dehumidification operation, the dehumidified air from the humidity control unit (20) is supplied to the room (I). In dehumidification operation, the dehumidified air from the humidity control unit (20) is supplied to the room (I) intermittently. The humidity control unit (20) alternates between a first operation and a second operation. The first operation is to adsorb moisture from the air onto the humidity control rotor (22) and to supply the dehumidified air from the humidity control rotor (22) to the room (I). The second operation is to regenerate the humidity control rotor (22) and to discharge the air used for regeneration to the outside.

[0100] Specifically, in the first operation, the control unit (C) operates the first fan (26), stops the second fan (23), stops the heater (25), sets the first switching damper (24) to the third state (shown by the solid line in Figure 2), and sets the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state (see Figure 5). The air transported by the first fan (26) flows through the first passage (27) and passes through the humidity control region (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the humidity control region (22A), moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The air dehumidified in the humidity control region (22A) is sent through the hose (2) to the air conditioning indoor unit (30) and supplied to the room (I) from the indoor outlet (31b) of the air conditioning indoor unit (30).

[0101] The second operation (regeneration process of the humidity control rotor (22)) involves the control unit (C) operating the first fan (26) and heater (25), stopping the second fan (23), setting the first switching damper (24) to the fourth state (shown by the dashed line in Figure 2), and setting the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state (see Figure 5). The air transported by the first fan (26) flows through the first passage (27), is heated by the heater (25), and then flows through the humidity control region (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the humidity control region (22A), the adsorbent is regenerated. Specifically, the moisture adsorbed on the adsorbent is detached and released into the air. The air used for the regeneration of the humidity control rotor (22) flows from the first passage (27) to the second passage (28), as shown by the black arrows in Figure 2, and is discharged outside.

[0102] (3-6) Humidification operation In humidification operation, the humidified air from the humidity control unit (20) is supplied to the room (I). In humidification operation, the humidified air from the humidity control unit (20) is continuously supplied to the room (I). The control unit (C) operates the first fan (26) and the second fan (23), drives the humidity control rotor (22) to rotate, and turns on the heater (25). The control unit (C) sets the first switching damper (24) to the third state and the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state.

[0103] The outdoor air flowing through the third passage (62) flows through the adsorption region (22C) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the adsorption region (22C), moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The air that has been moistened by the humidity control rotor (22) is discharged to the outside through the third passage (62).

[0104] At the same time, the outdoor air flowing through the first passage (27) is heated by the heater (25) and then flows through the humidity control region (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the humidity control region (22A), moisture released from the adsorbent is released into the air. The air humidified by the humidity control rotor (22) is sent through the hose (2) to the indoor air conditioning unit (30) and supplied to the room (I) from the indoor air outlet (31b) of the indoor air conditioning unit (30).

[0105] (3-7) Dehumidifying Cooling Operation In dehumidifying cooling operation, the cooling operation and dehumidifying operation described above are performed simultaneously. Specifically, the air is dehumidified by the humidity control unit (20) and cooled by the indoor heat exchanger (34), which functions as an evaporator.

[0106] (3-8) Humidifying heating operation In humidified heating operation, the heating operation and humidification operation described above are performed simultaneously. Specifically, the air is humidified by the humidity control unit (20) and heated by the indoor heat exchanger (34), which functions as a radiator.

[0107] (4) First example of air conditioning system operation As shown in Figure 4, the air conditioning unit (1) is equipped with an odor sensor (56). The odor sensor (56) detects the odor in the room (I) by detecting the concentration (odor intensity) of odor components in the air. The odor sensor (56) is, for example, a semiconductor odor sensor. The odor sensor (56) detects the odor intensity of odor components (odor gases) that include organic substances such as acetic acid and alcohol. The odor sensor (56) includes a sensor element and detects the odor based on the change in the resistance value of the sensor element that occurs when odor gas strikes the sensor element. The change in resistance value is expressed as the odor intensity. A signal indicating the change in resistance value is transmitted from the odor sensor (56) to the control unit (C) as a first sensor signal indicating the odor intensity in the room (I). The odor sensor (56) is installed in the indoor unit (30) of the air conditioning unit (30). The odor sensor (56) is, for example, positioned around the indoor air intake (31a) of the indoor casing (31) (see Figure 3). The detected value (odor intensity) from the odor sensor (56) is the first example of the component value. The odor component is the first example of the specified gas component.

[0108] As shown in Figures 4 and 7, in step S10, the control unit (C) acquires a first sensor signal from the odor sensor (56) indicating the intensity of the odor in the room (I). The control unit (C) acquires the first sensor signal over time. Acquiring it over time means acquiring it continuously for a predetermined period of time.

[0109] In step S20, the control unit (C) determines, based on the first sensor signal from the odor sensor (56), whether the rate of change in the intensity of the odor in the room (I) with respect to the change in time is greater than a predetermined rate. If it is determined that the rate of change in the intensity of the odor in the room (I) with respect to the change in time is greater than a predetermined rate (Yes in step S20), the process proceeds to step S30. If it is determined that the rate of change in the intensity of the odor in the room (I) with respect to the change in time is not greater than a predetermined rate (No in step S20), the process proceeds to step S31.

[0110] In step S30, the control unit (C) decides to perform exhaust operation and causes the air conditioning unit (1) to perform exhaust operation.

[0111] In step S31, the control unit (C) decides to perform supply air operation and causes the air conditioning unit (1) to perform supply air operation.

[0112] As described above, the control unit (C) selects whether to have the air treatment device (1) perform exhaust operation or supply air operation based on the indoor or outdoor environment, and has the air treatment device (1) perform the selected operation.

[0113] If the substance that causes the odor (the source of a predetermined gas component) is near the indoor unit (30) of the air conditioner, the odor component reaches the indoor unit (30) before it can be mixed with the air. As a result, the rate of change in the intensity of the odor at the location of the indoor unit (30) in the room (I) with respect to the change in time becomes greater than a predetermined rate (Yes in step S20), and the change in the odor component at the location of the indoor unit (30) becomes rapid.

[0114] In this case, if the air conditioning indoor unit (30) operates in supply air mode even though odor components are near the unit, the strong odor components drawn in by the air conditioning indoor unit (30) will be returned from the air conditioning indoor unit (30) to the room (I), scattering them throughout the room (I), and especially causing the odor to spread to other rooms.

[0115] In this embodiment, when the substance that causes the odor is near the indoor unit (30) of the air conditioner, the indoor unit (30) selects exhaust operation, thereby effectively discharging the strong odor components that the indoor unit (30) has drawn in to the outside while suppressing their return to the room (I). As a result, odor components from the source can be appropriately discharged to the outside.

[0116] In contrast, in this embodiment, when the substance that causes the odor is far away from the indoor air conditioning unit (30), that is, when the rate of change in the intensity of the odor at the above fixed location in the room (I) with respect to the change in time is not greater than a predetermined rate (No in step S20), even if the indoor air conditioning unit (30) performs supply air ventilation, there is a low possibility that strong odor components will be scattered into the room (I). Therefore, by performing supply air ventilation with the indoor air conditioning unit (30), outside air can be effectively taken into the room (I) while suppressing the deterioration of the odor in the room (I).

[0117] This type of control allows for ventilation that takes advantage of the characteristics of both supply and exhaust ventilation, thereby preventing the spread of harmful environmental factors and the inducement of harmful environments, and creating a comfortable indoor environment (I).

[0118] (5) Second example of air conditioning system operation As shown in Figures 4 and 8, in step S10, when the control unit (C) acquires the first sensor signal from the odor sensor (56), the process moves to step S21.

[0119] In step S21, the control unit (C) determines whether the high-frequency components above a predetermined frequency among the frequency components included in the waveform representing the first sensor signal are above a predetermined proportion. If it is determined that the high-frequency components are above a predetermined proportion (Yes in step S21), the process proceeds to step S30. If it is determined that the high-frequency components are not above a predetermined proportion (No in step S21), the process proceeds to step S31.

[0120] With the above configuration, if the first sensor signal contains many high-frequency components, it can be inferred that the odor components (odor) from the odor source reach the location of the odor sensor (56) (the indoor air conditioning unit (30)) before they are mixed with the air. When the first sensor signal contains many high-frequency components, the change in odor components at the location of the indoor air conditioning unit (30) becomes rapid, similar to when the ratio of the change in the intensity of the odor in the room (I) with respect to the change in time in the first example above becomes greater than a predetermined ratio (Yes in step S20). In this case, by performing exhaust operation as described above, the odor from the source can be effectively discharged to the outside. As a result, it is possible to suppress the room (I) from becoming filled with unpleasant odors.

[0121] (6) Third example of air conditioning system operation The air conditioning unit (1) includes a memory (storage unit). The memory stores a program executed by the control unit (C). The memory also stores a first prediction model. The first prediction model is a model for outputting a predicted value of the first distance between the source of odor components (odor source) and the air conditioning indoor unit (30). The first prediction model is generated based on the correlation between the odor intensity (detection value of the odor sensor (56)) at the location where the air conditioning indoor unit (30) is located and the first distance. The odor component is an example of a predetermined gas component.

[0122] The method for generating the first predictive model is not particularly limited. The first predictive model can be generated using, for example, AI (Artificial Intelligence). One example of a method by which such AI generates the first predictive model is a machine learning method (deep learning) using a multi-layer artificial neural network.

[0123] The first prediction model is a pre-trained model that learns the correspondence between odor intensity (detected by the odor sensor (56)) and the first distance, using these as input data. When the first prediction model receives input data, it outputs output data. The output data includes information indicating the predicted value of the first distance.

[0124] The first prediction model may be table information generated by statistical analysis, such as by conducting tests to investigate the correlation between odor intensity and first distance (information that associates multiple odor intensities with multiple predicted first distance values).

[0125] As shown in Figures 4 and 9, in step S10, when the control unit (C) acquires the first sensor signal from the odor sensor (56), the process moves to step S11.

[0126] In step S11, the control unit (C) outputs a predicted value of the first distance based on the detected value of the odor sensor (56) and the first prediction model described above.

[0127] In step S22, the control unit (C) determines whether the first distance is smaller than the first predetermined distance. If it is determined that the predicted value of the first distance is smaller than the first predetermined distance (Yes in step S22), the process proceeds to step S30. If it is determined that the predicted value of the first distance is not smaller than the first predetermined distance (No in step S22), the process proceeds to step S31.

[0128] (7) Fourth example of the operation of an air conditioning system As shown in Figures 4 and 10, in step S10, when the control unit (C) acquires the first sensor signal from the odor sensor (56), the process moves to step S23.

[0129] In step S23, the control unit (C) determines whether the odor level in the room (I) is above a predetermined level. The odor level is the value detected by the odor sensor (56), or a representative value (mode, median, or mean) of the detection values ​​of multiple odor sensors (56) detected within a predetermined period. The higher the odor level, the stronger the odor. If it is determined that the odor level in the room (I) is above a predetermined level (Yes in step S23), the process proceeds to step S30. If it is determined that the odor level in the room (I) is not above a predetermined level (No in step S23), the process proceeds to step S31.

[0130] Furthermore, an odor sensor may be installed outside the room, and if the control unit (C) determines that the level of odor outside the room detected by the outdoor odor sensor is above a predetermined level, the control unit (C) may cause the air conditioner (1) to perform exhaust operation. If the control unit (C) determines that the level of odor outside the room is not above a predetermined level, the control unit (C) may cause the air conditioner (1) to perform supply air operation.

[0131] (8) Fifth example of the operation of an air conditioning system As shown in Figures 4 and 11, in step S40, the air conditioner (1) receives a stop command from the remote controller (40). At this time, it is determined whether the air conditioner (1) received the stop command while moisture is adhering to the indoor heat exchanger (34). If the air conditioner (1) received the stop command while moisture is adhering to the indoor heat exchanger (34) (Yes in step S40), the process proceeds to step S41. If the air conditioner (1) did not receive the stop command while moisture is adhering to the indoor heat exchanger (34) (Yes in step S40), the process proceeds to step S42.

[0132] In step S41, the control unit (C) decides to perform exhaust operation and instructs the air conditioner (1) to perform exhaust operation. By exhaust operation, moisture adhering to the indoor heat exchanger (34) is discharged to the outside, thereby suppressing an increase in humidity in the room (I). After a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the air conditioner (1) started exhaust operation, the process moves to step S42.

[0133] In step S42, the control unit (C) stops the air conditioning unit (1). This turns off the power to the air conditioning unit (1).

[0134] Step S40 will be explained below.

[0135] In step S40 described above, if the air conditioner (1) receives a stop command while moisture is adhering to the indoor heat exchanger (34), this may include the case where the air conditioner (1) performing cooling operation receives a stop command. In this case, in step S40, the control unit (C) determines whether or not the air conditioner (1) performing cooling operation has received a stop command. If it is determined that the air conditioner (1) performing cooling operation has received a stop command, the process proceeds to step S41; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S42.

[0136] In step S40 described above, if the air conditioning system (1) receives a stop command while moisture is adhering to the indoor heat exchanger (34), this may include cases where the air conditioning system (1) performing cooling operation receives a stop command and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) is lower than the dew point temperature of the indoor air (I). The control unit (C) outputs the dew point temperature of the indoor air (I) based on the detection result of the indoor air temperature sensor (53) and the detection result of the indoor air humidity sensor (54). The dew point temperature may be output using a first conversion table that shows the correspondence between temperature, relative humidity and dew point temperature, which has been created in advance. The temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) is detected by a first temperature sensor (not shown) installed on the indoor heat exchanger (34). The temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) does not necessarily have to be detected by the first temperature sensor. For example, a second conversion table showing the correspondence between the temperature of the refrigerant liquid pipe, such as the liquid connecting pipe (3), and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) may be created in advance, a second temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the refrigerant liquid pipe may be provided, and the output may be generated using the detection result of the second temperature sensor and the second conversion table. In this case, in step S40, the control unit (C) determines whether the air conditioner (1) performing cooling operation has received a stop instruction and whether the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) is lower than the dew point temperature of the indoor air (I). If the air conditioner (1) performing cooling operation has received a stop instruction and it is determined that the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) is lower than the dew point temperature of the indoor air (I), the process moves to step S41. If it is not determined that way, the process moves to step S42.

[0137] (9) Sixth example of the operation of an air conditioning system As shown in Figures 4 and 12, in step S50, the control unit (C) acquires a second sensor signal from the indoor humidity sensor (54) indicating the humidity of the room (I). The control unit (C) acquires the second sensor signal over time.

[0138] In step S60, the control unit (C) determines whether the average value of the indoor humidity (I) acquired over a predetermined period is outside the predetermined humidity comfort zone. The predetermined humidity comfort zone has defined upper and lower limits, and the humidity values ​​within the range of the upper limit and lower limit are stored in the memory of the air conditioner (1) in advance. If it is determined that the average value of the humidity is outside the predetermined humidity comfort zone (Yes in step S60), the process proceeds to step S61. If it is determined that the average value of the humidity is not outside the predetermined humidity comfort zone (No in step S60), the process proceeds to step S71.

[0139] In step S61, the control unit (C) determines whether the humidity in the room (I) meets predetermined conditions. The predetermined conditions will be explained later. If it is determined that the predetermined conditions are met (Yes in step S61), the process proceeds to step S70. If it is determined that the predetermined conditions are not met (No in step S61), the process proceeds to step S71.

[0140] In step S70, the control unit (C) decides to perform exhaust operation and instructs the air conditioning unit (1) to perform exhaust operation. In step S71, the control unit (C) decides to perform supply air operation and instructs the air conditioning unit (1) to perform supply air operation.

[0141] Step S61 will be described below.

[0142] In step S61, the predetermined conditions may include a condition in which the rate of change in humidity in the room (I) with respect to the change in time is greater than a predetermined rate. In this case, in step S61, the control unit (C) determines whether the rate of change in humidity in the room (I) with respect to the change in time is greater than a predetermined rate. If it is determined that it is greater than a predetermined rate, the process proceeds to step S70; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S71.

[0143] In step S61, the predetermined conditions may include a condition in which high-frequency components of a predetermined frequency or higher among the frequency components included in the waveform representing the second sensor signal indicating the humidity of the room (I) constitute a predetermined proportion or greater. In this case, in step S61, the control unit (C) determines whether or not high-frequency components of a predetermined frequency or higher among the frequency components included in the waveform representing the second sensor signal constitute a predetermined proportion or greater. If it is determined that the high-frequency components constitute a predetermined proportion or greater, the process proceeds to step S70; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S71.

[0144] If the second sensor signal indicating indoor humidity (I) contains many high-frequency components, it can be inferred that high-humidity air from a source of high humidity (e.g., boiling water) has reached the location where the indoor humidity sensor (54) is installed (the indoor air conditioning unit (30)). In this case, the high-humidity air from the source can be effectively discharged to the outside by performing exhaust operation. As a result, it is possible to suppress uncomfortable conditions regarding indoor humidity (I).

[0145] (10) Seventh example of the operation of an air conditioning system The memory (not shown) of the air conditioning unit (1) stores a second prediction model. The second prediction model is a model for outputting a predicted value of the second distance between the source that causes the change in humidity (for example, boiling water in a kettle) and the indoor air conditioning unit (30). The second prediction model is generated based on the correlation between the amount of change in humidity at the location where the indoor air conditioning unit (30) is located (the amount of change in the value detected by the indoor humidity sensor (54) within a predetermined time) and the second distance.

[0146] The method for generating the second predictive model is not particularly limited. The second predictive model can be generated, for example, using AI. One example of a method by which such AI generates the second predictive model is a machine learning method (deep learning) using a multi-layer artificial neural network.

[0147] The second prediction model is a pre-trained model that learns the correspondence between the change in humidity (the change in the value detected by the indoor humidity sensor (54) within a predetermined time) and the second distance as input data. When the second prediction model receives input data, it outputs output data. The output data includes information indicating the predicted value of the second distance.

[0148] The second prediction model may also be table information generated by statistical analysis, such as by conducting tests to investigate the correlation between the amount of humidity change and the second distance (information that associates multiple amounts of humidity change with multiple predicted values ​​of the second distance).

[0149] As shown in Figures 4 and 13, in step S50, when the control unit (C) acquires a second sensor signal from the indoor humidity sensor (54), the process proceeds to step S51.

[0150] In step S51, the control unit (C) outputs a predicted value of the second distance based on the value detected by the indoor humidity sensor (54) and the second prediction model described above.

[0151] In step S62, the control unit (C) determines whether the second distance is smaller than the second predetermined distance. If it is determined that the second distance is smaller than the second predetermined distance (Yes in step S62), the process proceeds to step S70. If it is determined that the second distance is not smaller than the second predetermined distance (No in step S62), the process proceeds to step S71.

[0152] (11) Eighth example of the operation of an air conditioning system As shown in Figures 4 and 14, in step S50, when the control unit (C) acquires a second sensor signal from the indoor humidity sensor (54), the process proceeds to step S63.

[0153] In step S63, the control unit (C) determines whether the deviation of the average humidity of the room (I) over a predetermined period from a predetermined humidity comfort zone is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount. If the average humidity of the room (I) is greater than the upper limit of the predetermined humidity comfort zone, the deviation represents the difference between the average humidity of the room (I) and the upper limit. If the average humidity of the room (I) is less than the upper limit of the predetermined humidity comfort zone, the deviation represents the difference between the average humidity of the room (I) and the lower limit. If it is determined that the deviation of the average humidity of the room (I) is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount (Yes in step S63), the process proceeds to step S70. If it is determined that the deviation of the average humidity of the room (I) is not greater than or equal to a predetermined amount (No in step S63), the process proceeds to step S71.

[0154] Furthermore, if the control unit (C) determines that the value detected by the outside air humidity sensor (52) is outside the comfortable zone of a predetermined humidity level, the control unit (C) may instruct the air conditioner (1) to perform exhaust operation. If the control unit (C) determines that the value detected by the outside air humidity sensor (52) is not outside the comfortable zone of a predetermined humidity level, the control unit (C) may instruct the air conditioner (1) to perform supply air operation.

[0155] (12) The ninth example of the operation of an air conditioning system The air conditioning system (1) is equipped with an outdoor air quality sensor (not shown). The outdoor air quality sensor detects the amount of air pollutants in the outdoor air (for example, the amount of particles in the outdoor air). The amount of air pollutants in the outdoor air indicates, in other words, the level of air pollution in the outdoor air. The higher the amount of air pollutants in the air, the higher the level of air pollution. The outdoor air quality sensor is installed, for example, in the outdoor casing (11) and is positioned around the outdoor air intake (11a) (see Figure 2). The detected value of the outdoor air quality sensor is a second example of component values.

[0156] As shown in Figures 4 and 15, in step S80, the control unit (C) acquires information from the outdoor air quality sensor indicating the pollution level of the outdoor air. Based on the information acquired from the outdoor air quality sensor, the control unit (C) determines whether the pollution level of the outdoor air is above a predetermined level. If it is determined that the pollution level of the outdoor air is above a predetermined level (Yes in step S80), the process proceeds to step S81. If it is determined that the pollution level of the outdoor air is not above a predetermined level (No in step S80), the process proceeds to step S82.

[0157] In step S81, the control unit (C) decides to perform exhaust operation and instructs the air conditioning unit (1) to perform exhaust operation. In step S82, the control unit (C) decides to perform supply air operation and instructs the air conditioning unit (1) to perform supply air operation.

[0158] (13) Tenth example of the operation of an air conditioning system The air conditioning system (1) includes an indoor air quality sensor (not shown). The indoor air quality sensor detects the amount of air pollutants in the indoor air (I) (for example, the amount of particles in the indoor air). The indoor air quality sensor is installed, for example, in an indoor casing (31) and positioned at an indoor air intake (31a) (see Figure 2).

[0159] In the 10th example, during supply air operation, if the detected value of the indoor air quality sensor increases over time, and the degree of increase in the detected value of the indoor air quality sensor with respect to the change over time exceeds a predetermined level, the control unit (C) decides to perform exhaust operation, thereby switching from supply air operation to exhaust operation. During supply air operation, if the detected value of the indoor air quality sensor in the room (I) does not increase over time, or if the degree of increase in the detected value of the indoor air quality sensor with respect to the change over time does not exceed a predetermined level, the control unit (C) decides to continue supply air operation, thereby continuing supply air operation.

[0160] (14) Eleventh example of the operation of an air conditioning system The air conditioning unit (1) is equipped with an odor sensor (56). If the value detected by the odor sensor (56) (concentration of odor components in the indoor air) increases over time, and the degree of increase in the value detected by the odor sensor (56) with respect to the change in time exceeds a predetermined level, the control unit (C) decides to perform exhaust operation and switches from supply air operation to exhaust operation. If, during supply air operation, the value detected by the odor sensor (56) does not increase over time, or the degree of increase in the value detected by the odor sensor (56) with respect to the change in time does not exceed a predetermined level, the control unit (C) decides to continue supply air operation and the supply air operation continues.

[0161] While embodiments and modifications have been described above, it should be understood that various changes in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims (for example, (A) to (F) below). Furthermore, elements of the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be combined or substituted as appropriate.

[0162] The designations "1st," "2nd," "3rd," etc., mentioned above are used to distinguish between the terms to which these designations are attached, and do not limit the number or order of those terms.

[0163] (A) For the first (see Figure 7) to fourth (see Figure 10), ninth (see Figure 15), tenth, and eleventh examples of the operation of the air conditioning system (1) described above, the component value used is the intensity of the odor or the amount of particles. However, the type of component value is not limited to these. The component value can be anything that affects the user's comfort with respect to the indoor (I) air environment, such as the concentration of harmful gases or the concentration of carbon dioxide. The component values ​​(intensity of the odor or amount of particles) shown in each of the first to fourth, ninth, tenth, and eleventh examples of the operation of the air conditioning system (1) can be substituted with other types of component values ​​(concentration of harmful gases, concentration of carbon dioxide, etc.) and will have the same effect.

[0164] (B) Inside the indoor casing (31) of the indoor air conditioning unit (30), a passage may be provided to guide the air sent from outside to the inside of the indoor casing (31) during supply air operation to the intake side of the indoor heat exchanger (34). In this case, the control unit (C) may compare the detected value of the outside air humidity sensor (52) with the detected value of the indoor air temperature sensor (53) and cause the air conditioning system (1) to perform supply air operation when the outside humidity is higher than the indoor humidity. As a result, the outside air sent to the indoor air conditioning unit (30) is immediately dehumidified by the indoor heat exchanger (34), so the dehumidification of the outside air can be performed more effectively than if the outside air did not reach the indoor heat exchanger (34) immediately but instead reached the indoor heat exchanger (34) in a diluted state mixed with the indoor air and then dehumidified by the indoor heat exchanger (34).

[0165] (C) The control unit (C) may cause the air conditioner (1) to perform exhaust operation when the air conditioner (1) is started. This can suppress the generation of unpleasant odors in the room (I) when the air treatment device (1) is started. In addition, if moisture is present on the indoor heat exchanger (34), it can suppress the supply of high-humidity air to the room (I) when the air treatment device (1) is started.

[0166] (D) The control unit (C) may stop the rotation of the outdoor fan (13) when the air conditioning unit (1) is started.

[0167] (E) The control unit (C) may close the indoor air outlet (31b) by closing the flap (37) when the air conditioning unit (1) is started. The flap (37) is an example of a wind deflector. The wind deflector may be a louver. This prevents outside air from being sent into the room when the air treatment device (1) is started.

[0168] (F) A modified example of the air conditioning system (1) will be described with reference to Figure 16. The differences from the embodiment described above will be explained below. Note that, for convenience, the indoor air conditioning unit (30) and the outdoor air conditioning unit (10) are not shown in Figure 14.

[0169] As shown in Figure 14, the modified version of the air conditioning unit (1) differs from the air conditioning unit (1) shown in Figure 2 in that it does not have a second fan (23) and a third passage (62).

[0170] In the modified version of the air conditioning system (1), the operation details of the humidification operation among the operating operations (3-1) to (3-8) above differ from those of the air conditioning system (1) shown in Figure 2.

[0171] In a modified version of the air conditioning system (1), during humidification operation, humidified air from the humidity control unit (20) is intermittently supplied to the room (I). In the modified version of the air conditioning system (1), during humidification operation, the humidity control unit (20) alternately performs a third operation and a fourth operation. The third operation is to adsorb moisture from the air onto the humidity control rotor (22) and to discharge the air that has passed through the humidity control rotor (22) to the outside. The fourth operation is to regenerate the humidity control rotor (22) and to supply the air to which moisture has been added from the humidity control rotor (22) to the room (I).

[0172] Specifically, in the third operation, the control unit (C) operates the first fan (26), stops the heater (25), sets the first switching damper (24) to the fourth state, and sets the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state. The air transported by the first fan (26) flows through the first passage (27) and passes through the humidity control region (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the humidity control region (22A), moisture in the air is adsorbed onto the adsorbent. The air with moisture added to the adsorbent in the humidity control region (22A) flows from the first passage (27) to the second passage (28) and is discharged outside, as shown by the black arrows in Figure 7.

[0173] In the fourth operation, the control unit (C) operates the first fan (26) and heater (25), sets the first switching damper (24) to the third state, and the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state. The air transported by the first fan (26) flows through the first passage (27), is heated by the heater (25), and then flows through the humidity control region (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the humidity control region (22A), the adsorbent is regenerated. Specifically, the moisture adsorbed by the adsorbent is detached and released into the air. The air containing the moisture detached from the humidity control rotor (22) is sent through the hose (2) to the air conditioning indoor unit (30) and supplied to the room (I) from the indoor air outlet (31b) of the air conditioning indoor unit (30). [Industrial applicability]

[0174] As described above, this disclosure is useful for air treatment equipment. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0175] 1. Air conditioning system (air treatment device) 10 Refrigeration equipment 13. Outdoor fan (fan) 30. Indoor air conditioning unit (indoor unit) 34 Indoor heat exchanger 37. Flaps (wind deflectors) 53. Interior air temperature sensor (temperature sensor) 54. Interior humidity sensor (humidity sensor) C control section I. Indoors

Claims

1. An air conditioning system that ventilates the indoor space (I), The system includes a control unit (C) that controls the operation of the air conditioning system, The control unit (C) causes the air conditioning system to perform either an exhaust operation, which sends indoor (I) air to the outside, or a supply operation, which sends outdoor air to the inside (I), based on the indoor or outdoor environment. The aforementioned air conditioning system, An indoor heat exchanger (34) is provided in the indoor unit (30) of the air conditioning system, A switching damper (29) that switches between the exhaust operation and the intake operation, A humidity control unit (20) that sends humidity-controlled air to the indoor unit (30), A hose (2) connects the indoor unit (30) and the humidity control unit (20). Equipped with, The end of the hose (2) on the indoor unit (30) side is connected to the upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (34) in the indoor air passage (31c) that extends from the indoor air intake (31a) to the indoor air outlet (31b) of the indoor unit (30), In the exhaust operation described above, indoor air (I) flows into the hose (2) from upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (34) in the indoor air passage (31c), is sent through the hose (2) to the humidity control unit (20), and is discharged to the outside from the intake / exhaust port (21a) of the humidity control unit (20). The air conditioning system can perform a dehumidification operation by sending dehumidified air, which is adsorbed by a humidity control rotor (22) provided in the humidity control unit (20), to the indoor unit (30) through the hose (2), and supplying it to the room (I) from the indoor outlet (31b). In the dehumidification operation, the humidity control unit (20) alternately performs a first operation in which it adsorbs moisture from the air onto the humidity control rotor (22) and supplies the dehumidified air to the room (I), and a second operation in which it regenerates the humidity control rotor (22) and discharges the air used for regeneration to the outside. If moisture adheres to the indoor heat exchanger (34) and the air conditioning system is performing cooling operation, the control unit (C) causes the air conditioning system to perform exhaust operation, in this air conditioning system.

2. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein if moisture adheres to the indoor heat exchanger (34) and the air conditioning system receives a stop command, the air conditioning system that is performing cooling operation receives a stop command, and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) is lower than the dew point temperature of the indoor air (I).

3. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit (C) causes the air conditioning system to perform either the exhaust operation or the supply operation based on the humidity inside (I) or the humidity outside.

4. The air conditioning system according to claim 3, wherein the control unit (C) causes the air conditioning system to perform either the exhaust operation or the supply air operation based on information indicating the humidity of the room (I) acquired over time.

5. The control unit (C) causes the air conditioning system to perform either the exhaust operation or the supply operation based on the component values ​​in the indoor (I) air or the outdoor air. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, wherein the component value indicates the amount of a predetermined gas component in the air, the concentration of a predetermined gas component in the air, or the amount of particles in the air.

6. The air conditioning system according to claim 5, wherein the control unit (C) causes the air conditioning system to perform either the exhaust operation or the supply air operation based on information indicating the component values ​​of the room (I) acquired over time.

7. The air conditioning system according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the control unit (C) causes the air conditioning system to perform the exhaust operation when the rate of change of the component values ​​in the room (I) with respect to the change in time is greater than a predetermined rate.

8. The control unit (C) acquires a first sensor signal indicating the component values ​​in the room (I), and if the high-frequency components of a predetermined frequency or higher among the frequency components included in the waveform representing the first sensor signal are in a predetermined proportion or higher, the air conditioner performs the exhaust operation, as described in claim 5 or claim 6.

9. The air conditioning system according to claim 5 or 6, wherein, during the supply air operation, the component value in the room (I) increases over time, and the degree of increase exceeds a predetermined level, the control unit (C) causes the air conditioning system to perform the exhaust operation.

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