Cooling storage, method for controlling cooling storage, and cooling storage management system

Abstract

A cooling storage in the present disclosure cools air to be supplied to a display chamber through a refrigeration cycle including an evaporator. The cooling storage includes a drain receiving portion disposed under the display chamber, a first temperature sensor disposed in the drain receiving portion, a second temperature sensor disposed below the first temperature sensor in the drain receiving portion, and a control unit that detects a temperature difference between a detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and a detected temperature of the second temperature sensor.

Description

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0001] The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Japanese Patent Application No. 2025-028765 filed on Feb. 26, 2025. The content of the application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONField of the Invention

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a cooling storage, a method for controlling a cooling storage, and a cooling storage management system.Description of the Related Art

[0003] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-11241 discloses a cooling storage including a drain receiving portion provided at a lower part of a main body, and a blower disposed in the drain receiving portion.

[0004] The cooling storage circulates air that has exchanged heat with a cooler in the cooling storage using the blower. The cooling storage is characterized by including a discharge air temperature sensor that detects the temperature of air discharged into the cooling storage, an intake air temperature sensor that is mounted below the blower and detects the temperature of air drawn from the inside of the cooling storage, a temperature control unit that controls the temperature of the inside of the cooling storage based on outputs of the discharge air temperature sensor and the intake air temperature sensor, and an alarm control unit that detects submergence based on changes in an output state of the intake air temperature sensor and issues an alarm.

[0005] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a cooling storage, a method for controlling a cooling storage, and a cooling storage management system that can accurately detect a drain water blockage.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] A cooling storage of the present disclosure is a cooling storage that cools air to be supplied to a display chamber through a refrigeration cycle including an evaporator, the cooling storage including: a drain receiving portion disposed under the display chamber; a first temperature sensor disposed in the drain receiving portion; a second temperature sensor disposed below the first temperature sensor in the drain receiving portion; and a control unit that detects a temperature difference between a detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and a detected temperature of the second temperature sensor.

[0007] A method for controlling a cooling storage of the present disclosure is a method for controlling a cooling storage that cools air to be supplied to a display chamber through a refrigeration cycle including an evaporator, the cooling storage including a drain receiving portion disposed under the display chamber, a first temperature sensor disposed in the drain receiving portion, a second temperature sensor disposed below the first temperature sensor in the drain receiving portion, and a control unit that controls operation of each part of the cooling storage, in which the control unit executes a detection step of detecting a temperature difference between a detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and a detected temperature of the second temperature sensor.

[0008] A cooling storage management system of the present disclosure is a cooling storage management system including: a cooling storage disposed in a store; and a management device configured to be communicable with the cooling storage, in which the cooling storage cools air to be supplied to a display chamber through a refrigeration cycle including an evaporator, the cooling storage includes a drain receiving portion disposed under the display chamber, a first temperature sensor disposed in the drain receiving portion, a second temperature sensor disposed below the first temperature sensor in the drain receiving portion, and a control unit that detects a temperature difference between a detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and a detected temperature of the second temperature sensor, and the control unit included in the cooling storage notifies the management device of a detection result of the temperature difference.

[0009] The cooling storage, the method for controlling a cooling storage, and the cooling storage management system can accurately detect a drain water blockage.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a showcase management system according to a first embodiment;

[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a showcase according to the first embodiment;

[0012] FIG. 3 is a sectional view showing the configuration of the showcase;

[0013] FIG. 4 is a sectional view showing a configuration of a drain receiving portion of the showcase;

[0014] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing configurations of a control device and a management device according to the first embodiment;

[0015] FIG. 6 is a timing chart showing operation of an operation control unit of the control device;

[0016] FIG. 7 is a graph showing changes in a temperature difference between a detected temperature of a first temperature sensor and a detected temperature of a second temperature sensor in summer;

[0017] FIG. 8 is a graph showing changes in the temperature difference between the detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and the detected temperature of the second temperature sensor in winter; and

[0018] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a process in the control device.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] At the time when the inventors conceived of the present disclosure, the technique described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-11241 was known. In Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-11241, a difference in intake temperature caused by ON / OFF of a compressor becomes less pronounced due to submergence. However, the inventors have found such a problem that it is difficult to detect submergence in a situation where an operating state is stable and the difference in intake temperature is unlikely to occur such as when the compressor is an inverter or in a case of a separate-unit type, and have come to constitute the subject matter of the present disclosure to solve the problem.

[0020] Thus, the present disclosure provides a cooling storage, a method for controlling a cooling storage, and a cooling storage management system that can accurately detect a drain water blockage.

[0021] Hereinbelow, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that more details than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed description of already well-known matters or repetitive description for substantially identical configurations may be omitted. This is to avoid making the following description unnecessarily redundant and facilitate the understanding of those skilled in the art.

[0022] Note that the accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.First Embodiment

[0023] Hereinbelow, a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9.1-1. Configuration1-1-1. Configuration of Showcase Management System

[0024] First, a configuration of a showcase management system 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the showcase management system 100 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the showcase management system 100 includes a plurality of showcases 1, and a management device 6.

[0025] The showcase management system 100 corresponds to an example of a “cooling storage management system”.

[0026] The showcases 1 are disposed in a store, such as a supermarket or a convenience store. The showcases 1 include, for example, a showcase 1A, a showcase 1B, and a showcase 1C. Since the showcase 1A, the showcase 1B, and the showcase 1C have substantially the same configuration as each other, when the showcase 1A, the showcase 1B, and the showcase 1C are not distinguished from each other, the showcase 1A, the showcase 1B, and the showcase 1C may be referred to as the showcase 1.

[0027] In the showcase 1, air to be supplied to a display chamber 12 is cooled by a refrigeration cycle including an evaporator 31.

[0028] The showcase 1 corresponds to an example of a “cooling storage”.

[0029] The showcase 1A includes a control device 5A. The control device 5A controls operation of each part of the showcase 1A. The showcase 1B includes a control device 5B. The control device 5B controls operation of each part of the showcase 1B. The showcase 1C includes a control device 5C. The control device 5C controls operation of each part of the showcase 1C.

[0030] Since the control device 5A, the control device 5B, and the control device 5C have substantially the same configuration as each other, when the control device 5A, the control device 5B, and the control device 5C are not distinguished from each other, the control device 5A, the control device 5B, and the control device 5C may be referred to as the control device 5.

[0031] The control device 5 corresponds to an example of a “control unit”.

[0032] Each of the control device 5A, the control device 5B, and the control device 5C is communicably connected to the management device 6 through a network NW. The network NW is, for example, a local area network (LAN). The network NW communicably connects each of the control device 5A, the control device 5B, and the control device 5C to the management device 6 in accordance with, for example, an Ethernet (registered trademark) standard.

[0033] Although, in the first embodiment, a case in which the network NW is the LAN is described, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The network NW may, for example, be a wide area network (WAN). Furthermore, the network NW may, for example, be the Internet.

[0034] Although, in the first embodiment, a case in which the network NW communicably connects each of the control device 5A, the control device 5B, and the control device 5C to the management device 6 via wired communication is described, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The network NW may communicably connect each of the control device 5A, the control device 5B, and the control device 5C to the management device 6 via wireless communication, such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0035] The management device 6 receives a detection result of submergence of a second temperature sensor ST2 from the control device 5A, the control device 5B, and the control device 5C, and visibly notifies a user of the detection result of submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2. The user is, for example, an operator who monitors a state of the showcases 1. The management device 6 is, for example, disposed in a monitoring room of the store where the showcases 1 are disposed.1-1-2. Entire Configuration of Showcase

[0036] Next, a configuration of the showcase 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the showcase 1 according to the first embodiment. The showcase 1 is, for example, disposed on a floor of a store, such as a supermarket or a convenience store, and displays items such as beverages and food that are objects to be displayed, in a refrigerated state. The showcase 1 is a so-called “open type” showcase.

[0037] Each of FIGS. 2 to 4 shows an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis that are perpendicular to each other. The Z-axis is parallel to a vertical direction. The X-axis and the Y-axis are parallel to a horizontal direction. The X-axis is parallel to a front-rear direction. The Y-axis is parallel to a left-right direction. A positive direction of the Z-axis indicates an upward direction. A positive direction of the X-axis indicates a forward direction. A positive direction of the Y-axis indicates a rightward direction.

[0038] The showcase 1 includes a case body 11 having a substantially box shape with its front open for inserting and removing items. Hereinbelow, an open direction of the case body 11 in the horizontal direction is defined as the forward direction, and a direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction in the horizontal direction is referred to as a width direction or the left-right direction.

[0039] The showcase 1 includes a base portion 18 that supports the case body 11. Inside the case body 11, the display chamber 12 that is a space in which items are displayed is provided.

[0040] The case body 11 corresponds to an example of a “main body”.

[0041] FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the showcase 1 and shows a section perpendicular to the width direction. In other words, FIG. 3 shows a section parallel to an X-Z plane.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 3, the case body 11 includes a bottom wall 13 that covers the display chamber 12 from below. The case body 11 includes a pair of side walls 14 (refer to FIG. 2). The side walls 14 are provided in a standing manner on left and right side edges of the bottom wall 13 and cover the display chamber 12 from the left and right sides. The case body 11 includes a rear wall 15 that extends between the left and right side walls 14 and covers the display chamber 12 from behind. The case body 11 includes an upper wall 16 that extends between the side walls 14 and the rear wall 15 and covers the display chamber 12 from above. A front part of the bottom wall 13 bends and extends upward to form a lower front wall 17 in the bottom wall 13. The bottom wall 13, each side wall 14, the lower front wall 17, the rear wall 15, and the upper wall 16 are all insulated walls.

[0043] The base portion 18 is provided on a lower face of the bottom wall 13. The base portion 18 is placed on the floor that is a placement surface for the showcase 1. The base portion 18 supports the case body 11 on its upper face.

[0044] Inside the case body 11, an inner wall 20 is provided. The inner wall 20 is spaced apart from an inner face of the case body 11 and covers the case body 11 from the inside. The inner wall 20 includes a partition wall 22 that extends in the up-down direction in front of the rear wall 15. The inner wall 20 includes an inner upper wall 24 that extends forward along the upper wall 16 from an upper end of the partition wall 22. The inner wall 20 includes a deck pan 26 that extends forward substantially horizontally from a lower end of the partition wall 22 and is coupled to an upper part of the lower front wall 17.

[0045] The display chamber 12 is formed by being partitioned by the inner wall 20 and the side walls 14. For example, the partition wall 22 functions as a back plate that constitutes a back face of the display chamber 12. Inside the display chamber 12, a plurality of display shelves 28 is provided. On upper faces of the display shelves 28, items are placed and displayed. The display shelves 28 are mounted on the partition wall 22 in such a manner that the display shelves 28 are arranged in the up-down direction and spaced apart from each other, and extend forward substantially horizontally.

[0046] In the first embodiment, items can also be displayed on the deck pan 26, and the deck pan 26 functions as the lowest display shelf. A front end of the deck pan 26 is positioned forward of a front end of each display shelf 28. In addition, although four display shelves 28 are arranged in the up-down direction in the first embodiment, the number of display shelves 28 may be any number of one or more. In addition, a configuration with no display shelf 28 may be adopted.

[0047] A duct 30 is formed between the inner wall 20 and the case body 11. The duct 30 is a space enclosed by the inner wall 20, the bottom wall 13, the side walls 14, the lower front wall 17, the rear wall 15, and the upper wall 16.

[0048] The duct 30 includes a lower duct 32 that is formed between the deck pan 26 and the bottom wall 13 and extends in the front-rear direction. The duct 30 includes a back duct 34 that is formed between the partition wall 22 and the rear wall 15 and extends in the up-down direction. The duct 30 includes an upper duct 36 that is formed between the inner upper wall 24 and the upper wall 16 and extends in the front-rear direction. The display chamber 12 is surrounded by the lower duct 32, the back duct 34, and the upper duct 36.

[0049] An outlet port 37 is provided at a front end of the upper duct 36. The outlet port 37 is open downward and communicates with the display chamber 12. The outlet port 37 is positioned under a front end of the upper wall 16 and positioned at an upper front part of the display chamber 12.

[0050] An intake port 38 is provided at an upper part of a front end of the lower duct 32. The intake port 38 is open upward and communicates with the display chamber 12. The intake port 38 is contiguous to a rear part of the lower front wall 17 and provided at a lower front part of the display chamber 12. The intake port 38 is positioned forward of the outlet port 37. The outlet port 37 and the intake port 38 extend in an elongated manner between the side walls 14 across substantially the entire case body 11 in the width direction.

[0051] Although the intake port 38 is positioned forward of the outlet port 37 in the present embodiment, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the intake port 38 may be provided at the same position as the outlet port 37 in the front-rear direction.

[0052] The showcase 1 includes the refrigeration cycle (not shown) that cools the display chamber 12. The refrigeration cycle includes a compressor that compresses a refrigerant, the evaporator 31, a condenser, and an expansion mechanism that are annularly connected through pipes. The refrigeration cycle is filled with the refrigerant.

[0053] In the first embodiment, the evaporator 31 is provided inside the duct 30 included in the case body 11, and the compressor, the condenser, and the expansion mechanism described above are housed in an outdoor unit that is separate from the showcase 1. That is, the showcase 1 is configured as a so-called “separate-unit type”. The outdoor unit is, for example, disposed outside the store. When the store is located inside a high-rise building, the outdoor unit may, for example, be disposed indoors.

[0054] The evaporator 31 corresponds to an example of a “cooler”.

[0055] Although, in the first embodiment, a case in which the compressor, the condenser, and the expansion mechanism are housed in the outdoor unit that is separate from the showcase 1 is described, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The compressor, the condenser, and the expansion mechanism may, for example, be configured as a so-called “integrated type” integrated with the showcase 1.

[0056] A blower 33 is provided on a rear end part of the deck pan 26. The blower 33 includes a motor 33a, and a fan33b attached to an output shaft of the motor 33a. The blower 33 circulates air (cold air) cooled by the evaporator 31 inside the display chamber 12 by blowing the air by rotating the fan 33b using the motor 33a.

[0057] A canopy 40 is mounted on a front end part 16a of the upper wall 16 of the case body 11. The canopy 40 extends across substantially the entire showcase 1 in the width direction. The canopy 40 is positioned above the display chamber 12 and has a shape projecting forward.

[0058] The canopy 40 is provided with a storage external light 39a and a light power supply 90. The storage external light 39a illuminates the display chamber 12 using electric power supplied from the light power supply 90. The storage external light 39a is positioned under the canopy 40.

[0059] The light power supply 90 supplies electric power to the storage external light 39a, and a storage internal light 39b that is provided inside the display chamber 12. The light power supply 90 is provided inside the canopy 40.1-1-3. Configuration of Drain Receiving Portion

[0060] Next, a configuration of a drain receiving portion 321 of the showcase 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a sectional view showing the configuration of the drain receiving portion 321 of the showcase 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the drain receiving portion 321 is disposed under the display chamber 12. The drain receiving portion 321 is, for example, disposed on upper faces of the bottom wall 13 and the lower front wall 17. The drain receiving portion 321 is disposed under the display chamber 12 of the case body 11 and receives drain water. The drain receiving portion 321 is, for example, formed of a plate member such as stainless steel or aluminum.

[0061] The drain receiving portion 321 is formed in a substantially V-shape in the sectional view shown in FIG. 4. A drain outlet (not shown) is formed in the drain receiving portion 321. The drain outlet is disposed at the lowest position in the drain receiving portion 321. In other words, the drain outlet is disposed at an end of the drain receiving portion 321 in a negative direction of the Z-axis. In addition, the drain outlet is, for example, disposed at substantially the center position of the drain receiving portion 321 in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction).

[0062] Note that although a case in which the drain receiving portion 321 is disposed on the upper faces of the bottom wall 13 and the lower front wall 17 is described here, the drain receiving portion 321, for example, includes a space enclosed by the upper faces of the bottom wall 13 and the lower front wall 17, and the deck pan 26. In other words, the drain receiving portion 321 indicates an area that substantially coincides with the lower duct 32.

[0063] The drain outlet, for example, discharges drain water stored in the drain receiving portion 321 to the outside through a drain pipe (not shown). A net that reduces the likelihood of the entry of foreign matter such as dust into the drain pipe is disposed in the drain outlet. When foreign matter such as dust adheres to the net, the flow of drain water from the drain outlet to the drain pipe is obstructed, which causes a so-called “drain water blockage”. In such a case, the water level of the drain water stored in the drain receiving portion 321 rises. As a result, the second temperature sensor ST2 becomes submerged.

[0064] A first temperature sensor ST1 is disposed on the intake side of the blower 33. The first temperature sensor ST1 detects a temperature TP1 of intake air of the blower 33. Since the temperature TP1 is a detected temperature of the first temperature sensor ST1, the temperature TP1 may be referred to as the detected temperature TP1. The first temperature sensor ST1 outputs the detected temperature TP1 to the control device 5.

[0065] The second temperature sensor ST2 is disposed below the first temperature sensor ST1 in the drain receiving portion 321. The second temperature sensor ST2 is, for example, disposed below a center position in the up-down direction between a water level WU when the drain receiving portion 321 is full and a lower end position of the drain receiving portion 321.

[0066] The second temperature sensor ST2 outputs its detected temperature TP2 to the control device 5.

[0067] The lower the disposed position of the second temperature sensor ST2 in the up-down direction is, the earlier the control unit 5 can detect submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 when a “drain water blockage” occurs. By adjusting the position in the up-down direction at which the second temperature sensor ST2 is disposed, the timing at which the second temperature sensor ST2 is submerged when a “drain water blockage” occurs can be adjusted.

[0068] Although, in the present embodiment, a case in which the first temperature sensor ST1 is disposed on the intake side of the blower 33, and the second temperature sensor ST2 is disposed below the first temperature sensor ST1 in the drain receiving portion 321 is described, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0069] The first temperature sensor ST1 may be disposed in the space enclosed by the upper faces of the bottom wall 13 and the lower front wall 17, and the deck pan 26 in the drain receiving portion 321. In addition, the second temperature sensor ST2 only needs to be disposed below the first temperature sensor ST1. That is, the second temperature sensor ST2 may be disposed below the first temperature sensor ST1 in the space enclosed by the upper faces of the bottom wall 13 and the lower front wall 17, and the deck pan 26.

[0070] When the first temperature sensor ST1 and the second temperature sensor ST2 are disposed in the space enclosed by the upper faces of the bottom wall 13 and the lower front wall 17, and the deck pan 26, each of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the second temperature sensor ST2 may be supported as described below.

[0071] For example, the first temperature sensor ST1 and the second temperature sensor ST2 may be suspended from the deck pan 26. Alternatively, members that support the first temperature sensor ST1 and the second temperature sensor ST2 from the upper faces of the bottom wall 13 and the lower front wall 17 may be disposed.

[0072] In the first embodiment, the water level WU when the drain receiving portion 321 is full coincides with a lower end position of the fan 33b of the blower 33, as shown in FIG. 4.

[0073] When the water level of the drain water stored in the drain receiving portion 321 reaches the full water level WU, since the fan 33b splashes the drain water, the drain water is scattered. To avoid such a situation, the operator needs to resolve the “drain water blockage” before the water level of the drain water stored in the drain receiving portion 321 reaches the full water level WU.

[0074] Each of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the second temperature sensor ST2 consists of, for example, a thermistor. Furthermore, since the second temperature sensor ST2 is expected to be submerged, the second temperature sensor ST2 consists of a waterproof thermistor. Note that the first temperature sensor ST1 may consist of a waterproof thermistor, as with the second temperature sensor ST2.

[0075] Although, in the first embodiment, the water level WU when the drain receiving portion 321 is full coincides with the lower end position of the fan 33b of the blower 33, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, when a lower end position of the motor 33a of the blower 33 is located below the lower end position of the fan 33b of the blower 33, the water level WU when the drain receiving portion 321 is full coincides with the lower end position of the motor 33a of the blower 33.1-1-4. Configurations of Control Device and Management Device

[0076] Next, configurations of the control device 5 and the management device 6 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the configurations of the control device 5 and the management device 6 according to the first embodiment.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 5, the control device 5 is configured to interface with the evaporator 31, the blower 33, the first temperature sensor ST1, and the second temperature sensor ST2. In addition, the control device 5 is configured to interface with the compressor, the condenser, and the expansion mechanism (not shown) that constitute the refrigeration cycle.

[0078] The control device 5 includes a first processor 51, and a first memory 52.

[0079] The first processor 51 is a processor such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a micro processing unit (MPU).

[0080] The first memory 52 is a memory that stores programs and data. The first memory 52 stores a first control program 521.

[0081] The first memory 52 includes a nonvolatile storage area. The first memory 52 may also include a volatile storage area and constitute a work area of the first processor 51. The first memory 52 includes, for example, a read only memory (ROM) and a random access memory (RAM).

[0082] The first processor 51 functions as an operation control unit 511, an acquisition unit 512, a detection unit 513, and an alarm output unit 514 by reading and executing the first control program 521.

[0083] The operation control unit 511 controls operation of each part of the showcase 1. The operation control unit 511, for example, makes switching between cooling operation CQ and defrosting operation DF.

[0084] In the cooling operation CQ, the operation control unit 511 operates the refrigeration cycle in such a manner that a detected temperature of a storage internal temperature sensor (not shown) reaches a predetermined temperature. The predetermined temperature is, for example, 5° C. The storage internal temperature sensor is, for example, disposed at an appropriate location on the inner wall 20 of the showcase 1.

[0085] The operation control unit 511 stops the refrigeration cycle in the defrosting operation DF.

[0086] The operation control unit 511, for example, executes the defrosting operation DF at predetermined time intervals. The predetermined time interval is, for example, 6 hours. The defrosting operation DF is, for example, continuously executed for 15 minutes.

[0087] A process in the operation control unit 511 will be further described with reference to FIG. 6.

[0088] The acquisition unit 512 acquires the detected temperature TP1 from the first temperature sensor ST1. In addition, the acquisition unit 512 acquires the detected temperature TP2 from the second temperature sensor ST2.

[0089] The detection unit 513 detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 based on a temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2.

[0090] The detection unit 513, for example, detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 when the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than a preset threshold ΔTH. The threshold ΔTH is, for example, 3° C.

[0091] The detection unit 513, for example, detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 when a state in which the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH continues for a predetermined period PA or longer. The predetermined period PA is, for example, 10 minutes.

[0092] The detection unit 513, for example, detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 based on the temperature difference ΔTP while the operation control unit 511 is executing the defrosting operation DF.

[0093] In the first embodiment, the detection unit 513, for example, detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 when the state in which the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH continues for the predetermined period PA or longer while the operation control unit 511 is executing the defrosting operation DF. The threshold ΔTH is, for example, 3° C. The predetermined period PA is, for example, 10 minutes.

[0094] The alarm output unit 514 notifies the management device 6 of a detection result of submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2.

[0095] For example, when the detection unit 513 detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2, the alarm output unit 514 notifies the management device 6 of an alarm AL indicating that the submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 has been detected.

[0096] Although, in the present embodiment, the alarm output unit 514 notifies the management device 6 of the detection result of submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The alarm output unit 514 may notify the management device 6 of the temperature difference ΔTP.

[0097] Next, the configuration of the management device 6 will be described with reference to FIG. 5.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 5, the management device 6 includes a second processor 61, a second memory 62, and a display mechanism 63.

[0099] The second processor 61 is a processor such as CPU or an MPU.

[0100] The second memory 62 is a memory that stores programs and data. The second memory 62 stores a second control program 621.

[0101] The second memory 62 includes a nonvolatile storage area. The second memory 62 may also include a volatile storage area and constitute a work area of the second processor 61. The second memory 62 includes, for example, a ROM and a RAM.

[0102] The display mechanism 63 includes a display such as a liquid crystal display (LCD). The display mechanism 63 displays various images on the display in accordance with instructions of the second processor 61.

[0103] The display mechanism 63 includes a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0104] The second processor 61 functions as a communication control unit 611, and a display control unit 612 by reading and executing the second control program 621.

[0105] The communication control unit 611 controls communication with the control device 5. The communication control unit 611, for example, receives the alarm AL from the alarm output unit 514.

[0106] The display control unit 612 displays various images on the display of the display mechanism 63.

[0107] When the communication control unit 611, for example, receives the alarm AL from the control device 5A, the display control unit 612, for example, displays an image indicating that submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 has been detected on the display in the showcase 1A.

[0108] When the communication control unit 611, for example, receives the alarm AL from the control device 5B, the display control unit 612, for example, displays an image indicating that submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 has been detected on the display in the showcase 1B.

[0109] When the communication control unit 611, for example, receives the alarm AL from the control device 5C, the display control unit 612, for example, displays an image indicating that submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 has been detected on the display in the showcase 1C.1-2. Operation1-2-1. Operation of Operation Control Unit

[0110] Next, operation of the operation control unit 511 of the control device 5 will be described with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a timing chart showing the operation of the operation control unit 511 of the control device 5.

[0111] A horizontal axis of FIG. 6 represents time TM. As shown in FIG. 6, the operation control unit 511 alternately executes the cooling operation CQ and the defrosting operation DF.

[0112] At time TM1, the operation control unit 511 makes switching from the cooling operation CQ to the defrosting operation DF. From time TM1 to time TM2, the operation control unit 511 executes the defrosting operation DF. A period PD from time TM1 to time TM2 is, for example, 15 minutes.

[0113] At time TM2, the operation control unit 511 makes switching from the defrosting operation DF to the cooling operation CQ. From time TM2 to time TM3, the operation control unit 511 executes the cooling operation CQ. A period PC from time TM2 to time TM3 is, for example, 6 hours.

[0114] At time TM3, the operation control unit 511 makes switching from the cooling operation CQ to the defrosting operation DF. From time TM3 to time TM4, the operation control unit 511 executes the defrosting operation DF. A period PD from time TM3 to time TM4 is, for example, 15 minutes.

[0115] At time TM4, the operation control unit 511 makes switching from the defrosting operation DF to the cooling operation CQ. From time TM4 to time TM5, the operation control unit 511 executes the cooling operation CQ. A period PC from time TM4 to time TM5 is, for example, 6 hours.

[0116] At time TM5, the operation control unit 511 makes switching from the cooling operation CQ to the defrosting operation DF. From time TM5 to time TM6, the operation control unit 511 executes the defrosting operation DF. A period PD from time TM5 to time TM6 is, for example, 15 minutes.1-2-2. Changes in Temperature Difference

[0117] Next, changes in the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. Each of FIGS. 7 and 8 is a graph showing changes in the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2.

[0118] FIG. 7 is a graph showing changes in the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2 in summer. In FIG. 7, for example, an outside air temperature is 27° C., and an outside air humidity is 70%. The outside air temperature is the temperature of outside air of the showcase 1, and the outside air humidity is the humidity of outside air of the showcase 1.

[0119] An upper part of FIG. 7 shows changes in the temperature difference ΔTP when the detection unit 513 does not detect submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2. A lower part of FIG. 7 shows changes in the temperature difference ΔTP when the detection unit 513 detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2.

[0120] A horizontal axis of the graph shown in the upper part of FIG. 7 represents time TM, and a vertical axis represents a temperature TP. A horizontal axis of the graph shown in the lower part of FIG. 7 represents time TM, and the vertical axis represents a temperature TP.

[0121] A graph G11 shown in the upper part of FIG. 7 shows changes in the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1. A graph G12 shown in the upper part of FIG. 7 shows changes in the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2. A graph G13 shown in the upper part of FIG. 7 shows changes in the detected temperature of the storage internal temperature sensor. A graph G14 shown in the upper part of FIG. 7 shows changes in the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2.

[0122] In addition, a period PD shown in the upper part of FIG. 7 shows a period during which the operation control unit 511 executes the defrosting operation DF. The period PD is, for example, 15 minutes.

[0123] As shown in the graph G14, since the state in which the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH does not continue for the predetermined period PA or longer during the execution of the defrosting operation DF, the detection unit 513 does not detect submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2. The threshold ΔTH is, for example, 3° C., and the predetermined period PA is, for example, 10 minutes.

[0124] A graph G21 shown in the lower part of FIG. 7 shows changes in the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1. A graph G22 shown in the lower part of FIG. 7 shows changes in the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2. A graph G23 shown in the lower part of FIG. 7 shows changes in the detected temperature of the storage internal temperature sensor. A graph G24 shown in the lower part of FIG. 7 shows changes in the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2.

[0125] In addition, a period PD shown in the lower part of FIG. 7 shows a period during which the operation control unit 511 executes the defrosting operation DF. The period PD is, for example, 15 minutes.

[0126] As shown in the graph G24, since the state in which the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH continues for the predetermined period PA or longer during the execution of the defrosting operation DF, the detection unit 513 detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2. The threshold ΔTH is, for example, 3° C., and the predetermined period PA is, for example, 10 minutes.

[0127] A period PB shown in the graph G24 shows a period during which the state in which the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH continues during the execution of the defrosting operation DF. The period PB is, for example, 10 minutes or longer.

[0128] Time TMS indicates a start point of the period PB, and time TME indicates an end point of the period PB. At time TMS, during the execution of the defrosting operation DF, the state in which the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH is reached. At time TME, the execution of the defrosting operation DF is finished. Time TME coincides with an end point of the period PD.

[0129] FIG. 8 is a graph showing changes in the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2 in winter. In FIG. 8, for example, an outside air temperature is 15° C., and an outside air humidity is 60%. The outside air temperature is the temperature of outside air of the showcase 1, and the outside air humidity is the humidity of outside air of the showcase 1.

[0130] In FIG. 8, the outside air temperature is lower than in FIG. 7. Thus, during the cooling operation CQ, the operation control unit 511 repeatedly stops and drives the refrigeration cycle. In other words, the operation control unit 511 repeatedly stops and drives the refrigeration cycle during the cooling operation CQ in such a manner that the detected temperature of the storage internal temperature sensor falls within a range of, for example, 2° C. or higher and 10° C. or lower.

[0131] An upper part of FIG. 8 shows changes in the temperature difference ΔTP when the detection unit 513 does not detect submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2. A lower part of FIG. 8 shows changes in the temperature difference ΔTP when the detection unit 513 detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2.

[0132] A horizontal axis of a graph shown in the upper part of FIG. 8 represents time TM, and a vertical axis represents a temperature TP. A horizontal axis of a graph shown in the lower part of FIG. 8 represents time TM, and a vertical axis represents a temperature TP.

[0133] A graph G31 shown in the upper part of FIG. 8 shows changes in the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1. A graph G32 shown in the upper part of FIG. 8 shows changes in the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2. A graph G33 shown in the upper part of FIG. 8 shows changes in the detected temperature of the storage internal temperature sensor. A graph G34 shown in the upper part of FIG. 8 shows changes in the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2.

[0134] In addition, a period PD shown in the upper part of FIG. 8 shows a period during which the operation control unit 511 executes the defrosting operation DF. The period PD is, for example, 15 minutes.

[0135] As shown in the graph G34, since the state in which the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH does not continue for the predetermined period PA or longer during the execution of the defrosting operation DF, the detection unit 513 does not detect submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2. The threshold ΔTH is, for example, 3° C., and the predetermined period PA is, for example, 10 minutes.

[0136] A graph G41 shown in the lower part of FIG. 8 shows changes in the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1. A graph G42 shown in the lower part of FIG. 8 shows changes in the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2. A graph G43 shown in the lower part of FIG. 8 shows changes in the detected temperature of the storage internal temperature sensor. A graph G44 shown in the lower part of FIG. 8 shows changes in the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2.

[0137] In addition, a period PD shown in the lower part of FIG. 8 shows a period during which the operation control unit 511 executes the defrosting operation DF. The period PD is, for example, 15 minutes.

[0138] As shown in the graph G44, since the state in which the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH continues for the predetermined period PA or longer during the execution of the defrosting operation DF, the detection unit 513 detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2. The threshold ΔTH is, for example, 3° C., and the predetermined period PA is, for example, 10 minutes.

[0139] A period PB shown in the graph G44 shows a period during which the state in which the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH continues during the execution of the defrosting operation DF. The period PB is, for example, 10 minutes or longer.

[0140] Time TMS indicates a start point of the period PB, and time TME indicates an end point of the period PB. At time TMS, during the execution of the defrosting operation DF, the state in which the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH is reached. At time TME, the execution of the defrosting operation DF is finished. Time TME coincides with an end point of the period PD.1-2-3. Process in Control Device

[0141] Next, a process in the control device 5 will be described with reference to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the process in the control device 5.

[0142] First, in step S101, the operation control unit 511 determines whether the defrosting operation DF is being executed.

[0143] When the operation control unit 511 determines that the defrosting operation DF is not being executed (step S101; NO), the process enters a standby state. When the operation control unit 511 determines that the defrosting operation DF is being executed (step S101; YES), the process proceeds to step S103.

[0144] Then, in step S103, the detection unit 513 determines whether the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2 is equal to or larger than the preset threshold ΔTH. The threshold ΔTH is, for example, 3° C.

[0145] When the detection unit 513 determines that the temperature difference ΔTP is not equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH (step S103; NO), the process proceeds to step S105.

[0146] Then, in step S105, the detection unit 513 does not detect submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2. Thereafter, the process returns to step S101.

[0147] When the detection unit 513 determines that the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH (step S103; YES), the detection unit 513 determines whether the state in which the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH has continued for the predetermined period PA or longer. The predetermined period PA is, for example, 10 minutes.

[0148] When the detection unit 513 determines that the state in which the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH has not continued for the predetermined period PA or longer (step S107; NO), the process returns to step S101. When the detection unit 513 determines that the state in which the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH has continued for the predetermined period PA or longer (step S107; YES), the process proceeds to step S109.

[0149] Then, in step S109, the detection unit 513 detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2.

[0150] Next, in step S111, the alarm output unit 514 notifies the management device 6 of the alarm AL indicating that the submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 has been detected. Thereafter, the process returns to step S101.

[0151] Step S103 corresponds to an example of a “detection step”.1-3. Effects and the Like

[0152] As described above, in the first embodiment, the showcase 1 cools air to be supplied to the display chamber 12 through the refrigeration cycle including the evaporator 31. The showcase 1 includes the drain receiving portion 321 disposed under the display chamber 12, the first temperature sensor ST1 disposed in the drain receiving portion 321, the second temperature sensor ST2 disposed below the first temperature sensor ST1 in the drain receiving portion 321, and the control device 5 that detects the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2.

[0153] Accordingly, the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2 disposed below the first temperature sensor ST1 in the drain receiving portion 321 is detected. Thus, submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 can be appropriately detected based on the temperature difference ΔTP. Therefore, a drain water blockage can be accurately detected.

[0154] In addition, in the showcase 1, the control device 5 outputs the alarm AL when the control device 5 detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 based on the temperature difference ΔTP.

[0155] Accordingly, when submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 is detected based on the temperature difference ΔTP, the alarm AL is output. Thus, the operator can easily check the submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2. Therefore, the operator can promptly address a drain water blockage.

[0156] In addition, in the showcase 1, the control device 5 detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 when the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the preset threshold ΔTH.

[0157] Accordingly, when the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2 is equal to or larger than the preset threshold ΔTH, submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 is detected. Thus, by setting the threshold ΔTH to an appropriate value, the submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 can be appropriately detected. Therefore, a drain water blockage can be accurately detected.

[0158] In addition, in the showcase 1, the control device 5 detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 when the state in which the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH continues for the predetermined period PA or longer.

[0159] Accordingly, submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 is detected when the state in which the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2 is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH continues for the predetermined period PA or longer. Thus, by setting the predetermined period PA to an appropriate value, the submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 can be appropriately detected. Therefore, a drain water blockage can be accurately detected.

[0160] In addition, in the showcase 1, the control device 5 detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 based on the temperature difference ΔTP during execution of the defrosting operation DF.

[0161] Accordingly, submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 is detected based on the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2 during the execution of the defrosting operation DF. During the execution of the defrosting operation DF, the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2 becomes larger when the second temperature sensor ST2 is submerged than when the second temperature sensor ST2 is not submerged. Thus, the submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 can be appropriately detected. Therefore, a drain water blockage can be accurately detected.

[0162] In addition, in the showcase 1, the second temperature sensor ST2 is disposed below the center position in the up-down direction between the water level when the drain receiving portion 321 is full and the lower end position of the drain receiving portion 321.

[0163] Accordingly, the second temperature sensor ST2 is disposed below the center position in the up-down direction between the water level when the drain receiving portion 321 is full and the lower end position of the drain receiving portion 321. Thus, the lower the second temperature sensor ST2 is disposed, the longer the period from when the submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 is detected to when the drain receiving portion 321 becomes full can be made. Therefore, convenience of the operator can be improved.

[0164] In addition, a method for controlling the showcase 1 is a method for controlling the showcase 1 that cools air to be supplied to the display chamber 12 through the refrigeration cycle including the evaporator 31, the showcase 1 including the drain receiving portion 321 disposed under the display chamber 12, the first temperature sensor ST1 disposed in the drain receiving portion 321, the second temperature sensor ST2 disposed below the first temperature sensor ST1 in the drain receiving portion 321, and the control device 5 that controls operation of each part of the showcase 1. The control device 5 executes a detection step of detecting the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2.

[0165] Accordingly, the method for controlling the showcase 1 achieves the same effects as the showcase 1.

[0166] In addition, the showcase management system 100 includes the showcase 1 disposed in the store, and the management device 6 configured to be communicable with the showcase 1. The showcase 1 cools air to be supplied to the display chamber 12 through the refrigeration cycle including the evaporator 31. The showcase 1 includes the drain receiving portion 321 disposed under the display chamber 12, the first temperature sensor ST1 disposed in the drain receiving portion 321, the second temperature sensor ST2 disposed below the first temperature sensor ST1 in the drain receiving portion 321, and the control device 5 that detects the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2. The control device 5 included in the showcase 1 notifies the management device 6 of the detection result of the temperature difference ΔTP.

[0167] Accordingly, the showcase management system 100 achieves the same effects as the showcase 1.Other Embodiments

[0168] As above, the first embodiment has been described as an example of the technique disclosed in the present application. However, the technique in the present disclosure is not limited thereto and also applicable to embodiments with changes, replacements, additions, omissions, and the like. In addition, the constituent elements described in the first embodiment may be combined to constitute new embodiments.

[0169] Thus, hereinbelow, other embodiments will be described as examples.

[0170] Although, in the first embodiment, the detection unit 513, for example, detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 when the state in which the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the threshold ΔTH continues for the predetermined period PA or longer while the operation control unit 511 is executing the defrosting operation DF, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0171] The detection unit 513 may, for example, detect submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 based on the temperature difference ΔTP between the detected temperature TP1 of the first temperature sensor ST1 and the detected temperature TP2 of the second temperature sensor ST2. The detection unit 513 may, for example, detect submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 based on a maximum value of the temperature difference ΔTP.

[0172] The detection unit 513 may, for example, detect submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 when the temperature difference ΔTP is equal to or larger than the preset threshold ΔTH.

[0173] The detection unit 513 may, for example, detect submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 based on the temperature difference ΔTP while the operation control unit 511 is executing the defrosting operation DF. The detection unit 513 may, for example, detect submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 based on the maximum value of the temperature difference ΔTP while the operation control unit 511 is executing the defrosting operation DF.

[0174] Although, in the first embodiment, for example, when the detection unit 513 detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2, the alarm output unit 514 notifies the management device 6 of the alarm AL indicating that the submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 has been detected, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0175] For example, when the detection unit 513 detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2, the alarm output unit 514 may display the alarm AL indicating that the submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 has been detected on an LCD disposed on a side face of the showcase 1.

[0176] For example, when the detection unit 513 detects submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2, the alarm output unit 514 may display the alarm AL indicating that the submergence of the second temperature sensor ST2 has been detected on a display such as an LCD disposed on a centralized display device. The centralized display device is, for example, disposed in the monitoring room of the store.

[0177] Although, in the first embodiment, the case in which the showcase management system 100 includes three or more showcases 1 has been described, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The showcase management system 100 only needs to include a plurality of showcases 1. The plurality of showcases 1 may be two showcases 1, or four or more showcases 1.

[0178] Although, in the first embodiment, the control device 5 includes the first processor 51 and the first memory 52, and the first processor 51 functions as various functional units by reading and executing the first control program 521, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0179] The first processor 51 may consist of a single processor or a plurality of processors. The first processor 51 may be hardware programmed to implement the corresponding functional unit. That is, the processor may consist of, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0180] Although, in the first embodiment, the management device 6 includes the second processor 61 and the second memory 62, and the second processor 61 functions as various functional units by reading and executing the second control program 621, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0181] The second processor 61 may consist of a single processor or a plurality of processors. The second processor 61 may be hardware programmed to implement the corresponding functional unit. That is, the processor may consist of, for example, an ASIC or an FPGA.

[0182] In the first embodiment, the step units of the process in the control device 5 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 9 are divided in accordance with the main processing details to facilitate understanding of the operation, and the operation is not limited by the way of dividing the processing units or names thereof. Division to more step units may be performed in accordance with the processing details. In addition, division may be performed in such a manner that one step unit includes more processes. In addition, the order of the steps may be interchanged as appropriate to the extent that it does not interfere with the gist of the present disclosure.

[0183] Since the embodiments described above are intended to exemplify the technique in the present disclosure, various changes, replacements, additions, omissions, and the like can be made within the scope of the claims or a scope equivalent thereto.Configurations Supported by the Above Embodiments

[0184] The above embodiments support the following configurations.SupplementTechnique 1

[0185] A cooling storage that cools air to be supplied to a display chamber through a refrigeration cycle including an evaporator, the cooling storage including: a drain receiving portion disposed under the display chamber; a first temperature sensor disposed in the drain receiving portion; a second temperature sensor disposed below the first temperature sensor in the drain receiving portion; and a control unit that detects a temperature difference between a detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and a detected temperature of the second temperature sensor.

[0186] Accordingly, the temperature difference between the detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and the detected temperature of the second temperature sensor disposed below the first temperature sensor in the drain receiving portion is detected. Thus, submergence of the second temperature sensor can be appropriately detected based on the temperature difference. Therefore, a drain water blockage can be accurately detected.Technique 2

[0187] The cooling storage according to technique 1, in which the control unit outputs an alarm when the control unit detects submergence of the second temperature sensor based on the temperature difference.

[0188] Accordingly, when submergence of the second temperature sensor is detected based on the temperature difference, the alarm is output. Thus, the operator can easily check the submergence of the second temperature sensor. Therefore, the operator can promptly address a drain water blockage.Technique 3

[0189] The cooling storage according to technique 1 or 2, in which the control unit detects submergence of the second temperature sensor when the temperature difference is equal to or larger than a preset threshold.

[0190] Accordingly, when the temperature difference between the detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and the detected temperature of the second temperature sensor is equal to or larger than the preset threshold, submergence of the second temperature sensor is detected. Thus, by setting the threshold to an appropriate value, the submergence of the second temperature sensor can be appropriately detected. Therefore, a drain water blockage can be accurately detected.Technique 4

[0191] The cooling storage according to technique 3, in which the control unit detects submergence of the second temperature sensor when a state in which the temperature difference is equal to or larger than the threshold continues for a predetermined period or longer.

[0192] Accordingly, submergence of the second temperature sensor is detected when the state in which the temperature difference between the detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and the detected temperature of the second temperature sensor is equal to or larger than the threshold continues for the predetermined period or longer. Thus, by setting the predetermined period to an appropriate value, the submergence of the second temperature sensor can be appropriately detected. Therefore, a drain water blockage can be accurately detected.Technique 5

[0193] The cooling storage according to any one of techniques 1 to 4, in which the control unit detects submergence of the second temperature sensor based on the temperature difference during execution of defrosting operation.

[0194] Accordingly, submergence of the second temperature sensor is detected based on the temperature difference between the detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and the detected temperature of the second temperature sensor during the execution of the defrosting operation. During the execution of the defrosting operation, the temperature difference between the detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and the detected temperature of the second temperature sensor becomes larger when the second temperature sensor is submerged than when the second temperature sensor is not submerged. Thus, the submergence of the second temperature sensor can be appropriately detected. Therefore, a drain water blockage can be accurately detected.Technique 6

[0195] The cooling storage according to any one of techniques 1 to 5, in which the second temperature sensor is disposed below a center position in an up-down direction between a water level when the drain receiving portion is full and a lower end position of the drain receiving portion.

[0196] Accordingly, the second temperature sensor is disposed below the center position in the up-down direction between the water level when the drain receiving portion is full and the lower end position of the drain receiving portion. Thus, the lower the second temperature sensor is disposed, the longer the period from when the submergence of the second temperature sensor is detected to when the drain receiving portion becomes full can be made. Therefore, convenience of the operator can be improved.Technique 7

[0197] A method for controlling a cooling storage that cools air to be supplied to a display chamber through a refrigeration cycle including an evaporator, the cooling storage including a drain receiving portion disposed under the display chamber, a first temperature sensor disposed in the drain receiving portion, a second temperature sensor disposed below the first temperature sensor in the drain receiving portion, and a control unit that controls operation of each part of the cooling storage, in which the control unit executes a detection step of detecting a temperature difference between a detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and a detected temperature of the second temperature sensor.

[0198] Accordingly, the method for controlling the cooling storage according to technique 7 achieves the same effects as the cooling storage according to technique 1.Technique 8

[0199] A cooling storage management system including: a cooling storage disposed in a store; and a management device configured to be communicable with the cooling storage, in which the cooling storage cools air to be supplied to a display chamber through a refrigeration cycle including an evaporator, the cooling storage includes a drain receiving portion disposed under the display chamber, a first temperature sensor disposed in the drain receiving portion, a second temperature sensor disposed below the first temperature sensor in the drain receiving portion, and a control unit that detects a temperature difference between a detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and a detected temperature of the second temperature sensor, and the control unit included in the cooling storage notifies the management device of a detection result of the temperature difference.

[0200] Accordingly, the cooling storage management system according to technique 8 achieves the same effects as the cooling storage according to technique 1.INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0201] The present disclosure is applicable to a cooling storage that accurately detects a drain water blockage.REFERENCE SIGNS LIST100 showcase management system (cooling storage management system)

[0203] 1, 1A, 1B, 1C showcase (cooling storage)

[0204] 11 case body (main body)

[0205] 12 display chamber

[0206] 18 base portion

[0207] 20 inner wall

[0208] 26 deck pan

[0209] 28 display shelf

[0210] 30 duct

[0211] 31 evaporator (cooler)

[0212] 32 lower duct

[0213] 321 drain receiving portion

[0214] 33 blower

[0215] 33a motor

[0216] 33b fan

[0217] 34 back duct

[0218] 36 upper duct

[0219] 38 intake port

[0220] 5, 5A, 5B, 5C control device (control unit)

[0221] 51 first processor

[0222] 511 operation control unit

[0223] 512 acquisition unit

[0224] 513 detection unit

[0225] 514 alarm output unit

[0226] 52 first memory

[0227] 521 first control program

[0228] 6 management device

[0229] 61 second processor

[0230] 611 communication control unit

[0231] 612 display control unit

[0232] 62 second memory

[0233] 621 second control program

[0234] 63 display mechanism

[0235] AL alarm

[0236] CQ cooling operation

[0237] DF defrosting operation

[0238] PA predetermined period

[0239] PB, PC, PD period

[0240] ST1 first temperature sensor

[0241] ST2 second temperature sensor

[0242] TM time

[0243] TP1, TP2 detected temperature

[0244] WU full water level

[0245] ΔTH threshold

[0246] ΔTP temperature difference

Claims

1. A cooling storage that cools air to be supplied to a display chamber through a refrigeration cycle including an evaporator, the cooling storage comprising:a drain receiving portion disposed under the display chamber;a first temperature sensor disposed in the drain receiving portion;a second temperature sensor disposed below the first temperature sensor in the drain receiving portion; anda control unit that detects a temperature difference between a detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and a detected temperature of the second temperature sensor.

2. The cooling storage according to claim 1, wherein the control unit outputs an alarm when the control unit detects submergence of the second temperature sensor based on the temperature difference.

3. The cooling storage according to claim 1, wherein the control unit detects submergence of the second temperature sensor when the temperature difference is equal to or larger than a preset threshold.

4. The cooling storage according to claim 3, wherein the control unit detects submergence of the second temperature sensor when a state in which the temperature difference is equal to or larger than the threshold continues for a predetermined period or longer.

5. The cooling storage according to claim 1, wherein the control unit detects submergence of the second temperature sensor based on the temperature difference during execution of defrosting operation.

6. The cooling storage according to claim 1, wherein the second temperature sensor is disposed below a center position in an up-down direction between a water level when the drain receiving portion is full and a lower end position of the drain receiving portion.

7. A method for controlling a cooling storage that cools air to be supplied to a display chamber through a refrigeration cycle including an evaporator, the cooling storage includinga drain receiving portion disposed under the display chamber,a first temperature sensor disposed in the drain receiving portion,a second temperature sensor disposed below the first temperature sensor in the drain receiving portion, anda control unit that controls operation of each part of the cooling storage, whereinthe control unit executes a detection step of detecting a temperature difference between a detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and a detected temperature of the second temperature sensor.

8. A cooling storage management system comprising:a cooling storage disposed in a store; anda management device configured to be communicable with the cooling storage, whereinthe cooling storage cools air to be supplied to a display chamber through a refrigeration cycle including an evaporator,the cooling storage includesa drain receiving portion disposed under the display chamber,a first temperature sensor disposed in the drain receiving portion,a second temperature sensor disposed below the first temperature sensor in the drain receiving portion, anda control unit that detects a temperature difference between a detected temperature of the first temperature sensor and a detected temperature of the second temperature sensor, andthe control unit included in the cooling storage notifies the management device of a detection result of the temperature difference.

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