Device control system

Abstract

The present invention addresses the problem wherein, since the difference between the power consumption of a device in response to a DR request and the power consumption of the device if a DR request is not received cannot be ascertained, it is impossible for an aggregator or a user to determine the appropriateness of an incentive. This device control system includes a water heater (100) and a server (200). The server (200) controls the water heater (100) in response to a DR request. The server (200) controls the water heater (100) on the basis of a first operation setting during a first period set in response to the DR request. The server (200) outputs first information on the basis of operation data (D1) of the water heater (100). The first information includes the difference between the power consumption of the water heater (100) in the case where the water heater (100) is controlled on the basis of the first operation setting during the first period, and the power consumption of the water heater (100) as predicted in the case where the water heater (100) is controlled on the basis of a second operation setting during the first period. The second operation setting is an operation setting when the DR request is not received.

Description

Equipment Control System

[0001] Regarding equipment control systems.

[0002] As disclosed in Patent Document 1 (JP 2018-170925 A), a system is known in which a user adjusts the power consumption of a device in a commercial power grid in response to a demand response request from an aggregator, and the user receives an incentive from the aggregator depending on the amount of adjustment.

[0003] Patent Document 1 has the problem that aggregators and users cannot determine the appropriateness of incentives because it is not possible to grasp the difference between the power consumption of a device that responds to a demand response request and the power consumption of the device if no demand response request is received.

[0004] A first aspect of the device control system includes one or more devices and a server. The server has a controller. The controller controls the devices in response to a demand response request. The controller receives the request from an aggregator. The controller controls the devices using a first operating setting during a first period. The first period is a period set in response to the request. The first period is a period for adjusting the power consumption of the devices. The controller outputs first information based on device operating data acquired from the devices. The first information includes a difference between the first power consumption and the second power consumption. The first power consumption is the power consumption of the devices when controlled using the first operating setting during the first period. The second power consumption is the predicted power consumption of the devices when controlled using the second operating setting during the first period. The second operating setting is the operating setting used when the controller does not receive a request.

[0005] In a device control system according to a first aspect, a control unit outputs first information based on device operation data acquired from the device. The first information includes a difference between a first power consumption and a second power consumption. The first power consumption is the power consumption of the device when controlled with a first operation setting during a first period. The second power consumption is the power consumption predicted when controlled with a second operation setting during the first period. The second operation setting is the operation setting when the control unit does not receive a request. Therefore, the device control system can output to an aggregator or a user the difference between the first power consumption of the device in response to a demand response request and the second power consumption of the device when no demand response request is received. As a result, the aggregator or a user can grasp the difference between the first power consumption and the second power consumption and determine the appropriateness of the incentive.

[0006] A second aspect of the device control system is the device control system of the first aspect, wherein the request is a second request. The second request is a request to reduce the power consumption of the device during a first period compared to when the control unit does not receive the request. The first operation setting reduces the power consumption of the device during the first period compared to when the control unit does not receive the request. The difference is the amount of reduction in the power consumption of the device during the first period compared to when the control unit does not receive the request.

[0007] A third aspect of the device control system is the device control system of the first aspect, wherein the request is a first request. The first request is a request to increase the power consumption of the device during a first period compared to when the control unit does not receive the request. The first operation setting results in more power consumption by the device during the first period than when the second operation setting does. The difference is the amount of increase in power consumption by the device during the first period compared to when the control unit does not receive the request.

[0008] A device control system according to a fourth aspect is the device control system according to any one of the first aspect to the third aspect, wherein the first information further includes second power consumption.

[0009] With this configuration, the device control system according to the fourth aspect can provide the aggregator or user with additional information for determining the appropriateness of the incentive.

[0010] The equipment control system of the fifth aspect is an equipment control system of any one of the first aspect to the fourth aspect, wherein the first information further includes the setting contents of the first operational setting and whether or not the first operational setting is executed.

[0011] With this configuration, the device control system according to the fifth aspect can provide the aggregator or user with additional information for determining the appropriateness of the incentive.

[0012] A device control system according to a sixth aspect is the device control system according to any one of the first aspect to the fifth aspect, wherein the control unit outputs the first information for each of the plurality of devices.

[0013] A device control system according to a seventh aspect is the device control system according to the sixth aspect, wherein the control unit determines the setting contents of the first operational setting for each of the plurality of devices.

[0014] An eighth aspect of the present invention relates to the device control system of any one of the first to seventh aspects, in which the first period is set on a daily basis, and the control unit outputs the first information on a daily basis.

[0015] A ninth aspect of the device control system is the device control system of any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the request is a second request. The second request is a request to reduce the power consumption of the device compared to when the control unit has not received the request. The first operation time, which is the operation time of the first operation setting in the first period, is shorter than the second operation time, which is the operation time of the second operation setting in the first period.

[0016] A device control system according to a tenth aspect is the device control system according to the ninth aspect, wherein the first information further includes a difference between the first operating time and the second operating time.

[0017] An eleventh aspect of the present invention is directed to the device control system of any one of the first to tenth aspects, wherein the request is a second request. The second request is a request to reduce the power consumption of the device compared to when the control unit has not received the request. The operating capacity of the first operation setting during the first period is lower than the operating capacity of the second operation setting during the first period.

[0018] A device control system according to a twelfth aspect is the device control system according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, wherein the control unit outputs the first information to an aggregator.

[0019] A device control system according to a thirteenth aspect is the device control system according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, further comprising a display unit. The control unit outputs the first information to the display unit.

[0020] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an equipment control system. FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a water heating apparatus. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a water heating apparatus. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of a server. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the setting contents of a second operation setting of a water heating apparatus. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the setting contents of a first operation setting when a DR request is an increasing DR request. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the setting contents of a first operation setting when a DR request is a decreasing DR request. FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining processing of the equipment control system. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the setting contents of a first operation setting when a DR request is a decreasing DR request in variant 1D.

[0021] (1) Overall Configuration The device control system 1 controls one or more devices in response to a demand response request (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a DR request).

[0022] Demand response is when a user (consumer) receiving power from a commercial power system adjusts the power consumption of the commercial power system in response to a request from an aggregator 90 such as an electric power company that supplies power from the commercial power system. The aggregator 90 pays the user a remuneration as compensation for the demand response, depending on the amount of adjustment of the power consumption of the commercial power system.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an appliance control system 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the appliance control system 1 includes a water heating apparatus 100 (apparatus) and a server 200. The water heating apparatus 100 and the server 200 are communicatively connected via a network NW2. The server 200 receives a DR request for the water heating apparatus 100 used by a user from an aggregator 90 via an NW1 such as the Internet. The server 200 transmits the received DR request to the water heating apparatus 100 via the network NW2 and controls the water heating apparatus 100 in response to the received DR request. Furthermore, the server 200 may notify the user of the DR request by transmitting the received DR request to a mobile information terminal, such as a smartphone 91, owned by the user via the network NW2.

[0024] (2) Detailed Configuration (2-1) Hot Water Supply Device Fig. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram of hot water supply device 100. As shown in Fig. 2, hot water supply device 100 mainly includes a heat pump unit 110, a hot water storage unit 120, a remote controller 130, and a control unit 190. A hot water supply unit 140, a bathtub 150, and a stop valve 160 are connected to hot water storage unit 120.

[0025] The heat pump unit 110 heats hot water supplied from the hot water storage unit 120 and supplies the heated hot water to the hot water storage unit 120. The hot water storage unit 120 stores the heated hot water supplied from the heat pump unit 110, mixes the stored hot water with water supplied from a stop valve 160, and supplies the mixed water to the hot water supply unit 140 and the bathtub 150. The hot water supply unit 140 is, for example, a faucet and a shower. The stop valve 160 is connected to an external water supply source such as a water line. The stop valve 160 is operated to supply water to the hot water storage unit 120.

[0026] Here, "hot water" refers to at least one of hot water and cold water. Therefore, both water before being heated by the heat pump unit 110 and water after being heated by the heat pump unit 110 are referred to as hot water.

[0027] (2-1-1) Heat Pump Unit The heat pump unit 110 mainly includes a compressor 11, a water heat exchanger 12, an expansion valve 13, and an air heat exchanger 14. The compressor 11, the water heat exchanger 12, the expansion valve 13, and the air heat exchanger 14 are connected in a ring shape by refrigerant piping to form a heat pump cycle. The discharge side of the compressor 11 is connected to the water heat exchanger 12, and the suction side of the compressor 11 is connected to the air heat exchanger 14. One end of the expansion valve 13 is connected to the water heat exchanger 12, and the other end of the expansion valve 13 is connected to the air heat exchanger 14. The heat pump unit 110 also includes a first control device 10.

[0028] The refrigerant circulating through the heat pump cycle has a critical temperature higher than the temperature of the heated water supplied from the heat pump unit 110 to the hot water storage unit 120. The critical temperature of the refrigerant is preferably 10°C or more higher than the temperature of the heated water. Examples of refrigerants include R32 (critical temperature 78.1°C), HFO-1234yf (critical temperature 95.0°C), and R410 (critical temperature 71.4°C).

[0029] The compressor 11 has a compression mechanism that compresses the refrigerant by driving a motor 11a. The refrigerant compressed by the compressor 11 is sent to a water heat exchanger 12. The capacity of the heat pump unit 110 can be adjusted by controlling the operating frequency of the motor 11a.

[0030] The water heat exchanger 12 exchanges heat between the high-temperature refrigerant compressed by the compressor 11 and the hot water supplied from the hot water storage unit 120, thereby heating the hot water. The water heat exchanger 12 is, for example, a double-pipe heat exchanger consisting of an outer pipe and an inner pipe inserted inside the outer pipe. The water heat exchanger 12 may also be a plate-type heat exchanger, etc. The capacity of the heat pump unit 110 is, for example, the amount of heat that the water heat exchanger 12 imparts to the hot water supplied from the hot water storage unit 120 per unit time.

[0031] The expansion valve 13 reduces the pressure of the refrigerant that has passed through the water heat exchanger 12 and exchanged heat. The expansion valve 13 is, for example, an electric expansion valve. The expansion valve 13 may be a capillary tube or the like.

[0032] The air heat exchanger 14 exchanges heat between the refrigerant, which has been decompressed after passing through the expansion valve 13, and outside air, thereby heating the refrigerant. Outside air is supplied to the air heat exchanger 14 by, for example, an outside air fan. The refrigerant that has passed through the air heat exchanger 14 and exchanged heat is sent to the compressor 11.

[0033] (2-1-2) Hot Water Storage Unit The hot water storage unit 120 mainly comprises a hot water storage tank 21, a first drain valve 22, a water inlet valve 23, a boiling pump 24, a bypass valve 25, a boiling valve 26, a first mixing valve 27, a second mixing valve 28, a pressure reducing valve 29, a first flow rate sensor 30, a hot water filling solenoid valve 31, a second drain valve 32, a second flow rate sensor 33, a reheating pump 34, and a reheating heat exchanger 35. These elements are connected by pipes L1-L19 through which hot water flows. Temperature sensors T1-T10 are provided in the hot water storage tank 21 and pipes L10, L13, L14, and L16. The hot water storage unit 120 also has a second control device 20.

[0034] The hot water storage tank 21 stores hot water. Six temperature sensors T1-T6 are provided in the hot water storage tank 21. The six temperature sensors T1-T6 are composed of a first hot water quantity temperature sensor T1, a second hot water quantity temperature sensor T2, a third hot water quantity temperature sensor T3, a fourth hot water quantity temperature sensor T4, a fifth hot water quantity temperature sensor T5, and an upper temperature sensor T6. The upper temperature sensor T6 is provided near the upper end surface of the hot water storage tank 21. The first to fifth hot water quantity temperature sensors T1-T5 are provided on the side of the hot water storage tank 21 at intervals from the top to the bottom.

[0035] Because the density of water changes depending on the temperature, the hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 21 forms layers with a higher temperature at the top and a lower temperature at the bottom. Therefore, by detecting the temperature distribution of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 21 in the vertical direction based on the output signals of the temperature sensors T1-T6, the amount of hot water in the hot water storage tank 21 (amount of hot water stored) can be obtained. The number of temperature sensors provided in the hot water storage tank 21 to obtain the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 21 may be any number other than six.

[0036] One end of the water inlet pipe L1 is connected to the bottom surface of the hot water storage tank 21, and the other end of the water inlet pipe L1 is connected to the inlet side of the water heat exchanger 12 of the heat pump unit 110. A water inlet valve 23, a boiling pump 24, and a bypass valve 25 are provided in the water inlet pipe L1 from the hot water storage tank 21 to the water heat exchanger 12. The water inlet valve 23 and the bypass valve 25 are electric three-way valves.

[0037] The first drain pipe L2 branches off from the water inlet pipe L1 between the hot water storage tank 21 and the water inlet valve 23. A first drain valve 22 is provided on the first drain pipe L2. The first drain pipe L2 is connected to a drain pipe outside the hot water storage unit 120. The first drain valve 22 is operated, for example, to discharge hot water from the hot water storage tank 21 to the outside.

[0038] One end of the hot water outlet pipe L3 is connected to the outlet side of the water heat exchanger 12 of the heat pump unit 110, and the other end of the hot water outlet pipe L3 is connected to the boiling valve 26. The boiling valve 26 is an electric three-way valve.

[0039] One end of the first return pipe L4 is connected to the boiling valve 26, and the other end of the first return pipe L4 is connected to the upper end surface of the hot water storage tank 21.

[0040] One end of the second return pipe L5 is connected to the boiling valve 26, and the other end of the second return pipe L5 is connected to the lower end surface of the hot water storage tank 21.

[0041] One end of the bypass pipe L6 is connected to the bypass valve 25, and the other end of the bypass pipe L6 is connected to the hot water outlet pipe L3.

[0042] One end of the first boiling pipe L7 is connected to the upper end surface of the hot water storage tank 21, and the other end of the first boiling pipe L7 is connected to the first mixing valve 27. The first mixing valve 27 is an electric three-way valve.

[0043] One end of the second boiling pipe L8 is connected to the upper end surface of the hot water storage tank 21, and the other end of the second boiling pipe L8 is connected to the second mixing valve 28. The second mixing valve 28 is an electric three-way valve.

[0044] One end of the tank water supply pipe L9 is connected to a stop valve 160 outside the hot water storage unit 120, and the other end of the tank water supply pipe L9 is connected to the lower end surface of the hot water storage tank 21. A pressure reducing valve 29 is provided in the tank water supply pipe L9. The pressure reducing valve 29 is operated to adjust the pressure (water supply pressure) of the water supplied to the hot water storage unit 120 via the stop valve 160.

[0045] The branch water supply pipe L10 branches off from the tank water supply pipe L9 between the pressure reducing valve 29 and the hot water storage tank 21. The branch water supply pipe L10 branches off into a first mixed water pipe L11 and a second mixed water pipe L12. The first mixed water pipe L11 is connected to the first mixing valve 27. The second mixed water pipe L12 is connected to the second mixing valve 28. A mixed water temperature sensor T7 is provided in the branch water supply pipe L10. The mixed water temperature sensor T7 detects the temperature of the hot water flowing through the branch water supply pipe L10.

[0046] One end of the first hot water supply pipe L13 is connected to the first mixing valve 27, and the other end of the first hot water supply pipe L13 is connected to the hot water supply unit 140. A first flow rate sensor 30 is provided in the first hot water supply pipe L13. The first flow rate sensor 30 detects the flow rate of hot water in the first hot water supply pipe L13. A first hot water supply temperature sensor T8 is provided in the first hot water supply pipe L13 between the first flow rate sensor 30 and the hot water supply unit 140. The first hot water supply temperature sensor T8 detects the temperature of the hot water flowing in the first hot water supply pipe L13.

[0047] One end of the second hot water supply pipe L14 is connected to the second mixing valve 28, and the other end of the second hot water supply pipe L14 is connected to the bathtub 150. The second hot water supply pipe L14 is provided with a water filling solenoid valve 31 and a second flow rate sensor 33 from the second mixing valve 28 toward the bathtub 150. The second flow rate sensor 33 detects the flow rate of hot water and water in the second hot water supply pipe L14.

[0048] The second drain pipe L15 branches off from the second hot water supply pipe L14 between the hot water filling solenoid valve 31 and the second flow rate sensor 33. A second drain valve 32 is provided in the second drain pipe L15. The second drain pipe L15 is connected to a drain pipe outside the hot water storage unit 120. The second drain valve 32 is operated to discharge a portion of the hot water flowing through the second hot water supply pipe L14 to the outside, for example, in order to adjust the amount of hot water flowing through the second hot water supply pipe L14.

[0049] One end of the first bathtub return pipe L16 is connected to the bathtub 150, and the other end of the first bathtub return pipe L16 is connected to the inlet side of the reheating heat exchanger 35. A reheating pump 34 is provided in the first bathtub return pipe L16. A bathtub return temperature sensor T10 is provided in the first bathtub return pipe L16 between the bathtub 150 and the reheating pump 34. The bathtub return temperature sensor T10 detects the temperature of the hot water flowing through the first bathtub return pipe L16.

[0050] One end of the second bathtub return pipe L17 is connected to the outlet side of the reheating heat exchanger 35, and the other end of the second bathtub return pipe L17 is connected to the second hot water supply pipe L14 between the second flow rate sensor 33 and the bathtub 150. A second hot water temperature sensor T9 is provided in the second hot water supply pipe L14 between the bathtub 150 and the connection point between the second bathtub return pipe L17 and the second hot water supply pipe L14. The second hot water temperature sensor T9 detects the temperature of the hot water flowing through the second hot water supply pipe L14.

[0051] The first reheating pipe L18 branches off from the second hot water supply pipe L14 between the second mixing valve 28 and the hot water filling solenoid valve 31. The first reheating pipe L18 is connected to the inlet side of the reheating heat exchanger 35.

[0052] One end of the second reheating pipe L19 is connected to the outlet side of the reheating heat exchanger 35, and the other end of the second reheating pipe L19 is connected to the water inlet valve 23.

[0053] (2-1-3) Remote Controller Remote controller 130 is a user interface for controlling water heating apparatus 100. Remote controller 130 is installed, for example, in the kitchen and bathroom. As shown in FIG. 2 , remote controller 130 is connected to first control device 10 and second control device 20 via wireless or wired communication to enable bidirectional data communication. Signals for instructing the operation of water heating apparatus 100 are input from remote controller 130 to first control device 10 and second control device 20 via wireless or wired communication. In addition to remote controller 130, a mobile information terminal such as a smartphone 91 may be used as a user interface for water heating apparatus 100.

[0054] The remote controller 130 includes a display unit 130a and an operation unit 130b. The display unit 130a is, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display.

[0055] Display unit 130a displays information related to the state of water heating apparatus 100, information related to the settings of water heating apparatus 100, etc. Display unit 130a displays, for example, the set value of the temperature (hot water supply temperature) of hot water supplied to hot water supply unit 140 and bathtub 150, and the amount of hot water stored in hot water storage tank 21. Display unit 130a displays, for example, a DR request received from server 200 and first information (described later) received from server 200.

[0056] Operation unit 130b includes buttons, dials, keys, etc. that are operated by a user of water heating apparatus 100. The user of water heating apparatus 100 operates operation unit 130b to input information such as the set value for the hot water temperature. Display unit 130a may be a touch screen that also has the functions of operation unit 130b.

[0057] The remote controller 130 may further include a speaker, a microphone, etc. In this case, the remote controller 130 may notify the user of information displayed on the display unit 130a using the speaker, and may acquire information input by the operation unit 130b via the microphone.

[0058] (2-1-4) Control Unit The control unit 190 is mainly composed of a first control device 10 of the heat pump unit 110 and a second control device 20 of the hot water storage unit 120. The first control device 10 and the second control device 20 are typically composed of a microcomputer equipped with a control and arithmetic device and a storage device, and an input / output circuit. The control and arithmetic device is a processor such as a CPU or a GPU. The control and arithmetic device reads a control program stored in the storage device and controls the operation of the hot water supply device 100 in accordance with the control program. The control and arithmetic device can write calculation results to the storage device and read information stored in the storage device in accordance with the control program.

[0059] However, the configuration of control unit 190 is not limited to the above. For example, first control device 10 and second control device 20 may communicate with each other and operate cooperatively. Furthermore, instead of including first control device 10 and second control device 20, water heating apparatus 100 may include a device that has the functions of both first control device 10 and second control device 20 and is provided in either heat pump unit 110 or hot water storage unit 120. Such a device may be installed outside water heating apparatus 100 and connected to heat pump unit 110 and hot water storage unit 120 via a network.

[0060] 3 is a functional block diagram of water heater 100. As shown in FIG. 3, control unit 190 controls compressor 11, expansion valve 13, water inlet valve 23, boiling pump 24, bypass valve 25, boiling valve 26, first mixing valve 27, second mixing valve 28, water filling solenoid valve 31, and reheating pump 34, etc., based on signals from temperature sensors T1-T10, first flow rate sensor 30, and second flow rate sensor 33. Control unit 190 is also connected to server 200 so as to be able to communicate with it.

[0061] The control unit 190 mainly performs a boiling operation, a hot water supply operation, a water filling operation, and a reheating operation. The control unit 190 also mainly has a function of transmitting operation data.

[0062] (2-1-4-1) Boiling operation Boiling operation is an operation in which the heat pump unit 110 heats the hot water in the hot water storage tank 21. In boiling operation, the boiling pump 24 is driven, and the hot water in the hot water storage tank 21 is guided to the water heat exchanger 12 via the water inlet pipe L1 and heated. The hot water heated in the water heat exchanger 12 is returned to the hot water storage tank 21 via the hot water outlet pipe L3, the first return pipe L4, and the second return pipe L5. In this way, in boiling operation, the hot water in the hot water storage tank 21 is heated in the water heat exchanger 12 while circulating via the water inlet pipe L1, the hot water outlet pipe L3, the first return pipe L4, and the second return pipe L5.

[0063] The control unit 190 performs boiling operation by controlling the compressor 11, expansion valve 13, water inlet valve 23, boiling pump 24, bypass valve 25, and boiling valve 26 based on operation settings received from the server 200. The control unit 190 controls the operating frequency of the motor 11a of the compressor 11 and the opening degree of the expansion valve 13 to adjust the capacity of the heat pump unit 110 and the temperature (outlet hot water temperature) of the hot water heated in the water heat exchanger 12. The control unit 190 controls the rotation speed of the boiling pump 24 to adjust the outlet hot water temperature, the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 21, the flow rate (storage flow rate) of hot water supplied to the hot water storage tank 21, etc.

[0064] In normal boiling operation in which hot water is circulated in the hot water storage tank 21, the control unit 190 controls the water inlet valve 23 so that the water inlet pipe L1 does not communicate with the second reheating pipe L19, and controls the bypass valve 25 so that the water inlet pipe L1 does not communicate with the bypass pipe L6. As will be described later, the control unit 190 controls the water inlet valve 23 when performing the reheating operation.

[0065] The control unit 190 controls the bypass valve 25 to switch between a state in which hot water flowing through the water inlet pipe L1 passes through the water heat exchanger 12 and is supplied to the hot water outlet pipe L3, and a state in which hot water flowing through the water inlet pipe L1 bypasses the water heat exchanger 12 and is supplied to the hot water outlet pipe L3. In the state in which the water heat exchanger 12 is bypassed, the water inlet pipe L1 communicates with the bypass pipe L6, and the hot water in the hot water storage tank 21 circulates without being heated in the water heat exchanger 12.

[0066] The control unit 190 can control the boiling valve 26 to switch between a state in which hot water is supplied from the water heat exchanger 12 to the hot water storage tank 21 via the first return pipe L4, and a state in which hot water is supplied from the water heat exchanger 12 to the hot water storage tank 21 via the second return pipe L5.

[0067] The control unit 190 may acquire the outlet hot water temperature, the stored hot water volume, and the stored flow rate based on the operating frequency of the motor 11a of the compressor 11, the opening degree of the expansion valve 13, the rotation speed of the boiling pump 24, the state of the bypass valve 25 and the boiling valve 26, and the output signals of the temperature sensors T1-T6 of the hot water storage tank 21.

[0068] The control unit 190 may feedback control the operating frequency of the motor 11a of the compressor 11, the opening degree of the expansion valve 13, the rotation speed of the boiling pump 24, and the state of the bypass valve 25 and the boiling valve 26 so that the outlet hot water temperature, stored hot water volume, and stored flow rate reach predetermined target values.

[0069] The water heating apparatus 100 performs nighttime boiling operation and daytime boiling operation. Nighttime boiling operation is boiling operation performed during at least a portion of the nighttime hours. Daytime boiling operation is boiling operation performed during at least a portion of the daytime hours. Daytime hours are hours other than the nighttime hours. In this embodiment, the nighttime hours are the hours from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM the next day, and the daytime hours are the hours from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. In this embodiment, the nighttime boiling operation and daytime boiling operation are performed based on operation settings received from the server 200.

[0070] In this embodiment, the water heater 100 performs the boiling operation using power from the commercial power grid.

[0071] (2-1-4-2) Hot Water Supply Operation Hot water supply operation is an operation in which hot water in the hot water storage tank 21 is discharged from the hot water supply unit 140. In the hot water supply operation, if the hot water supply unit 140 is a faucet, opening the faucet causes water from outside to be supplied into the hot water storage tank 21 from the bottom of the hot water storage tank 21 via the tank water supply pipe L9 due to water supply pressure. As a result, high-temperature hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 21 is pushed out from the top of the hot water storage tank 21 via the first boiling pipe L7.

[0072] High-temperature hot water is supplied from the hot water storage tank 21 to the first mixing valve 27 via the first boiling pipe L7, and water from the outside is supplied to the first mixing valve 27 via the tank water supply pipe L9, the branch water supply pipe L10, and the first mixed water pipe L11. In the first mixing valve 27, the high-temperature hot water from the first boiling pipe L7 is mixed with the water from the first mixed water pipe L11. The mixed hot water is discharged from the hot water supply unit 140 via the first hot water supply pipe L13.

[0073] When the user opens the hot water supply unit 140 and the first flow rate sensor 30 detects an increase in the flow rate of hot water in the first hot water supply pipe L13, the control unit 190 starts the hot water supply operation. During the hot water supply operation, the control unit 190 controls the first mixing valve 27 in accordance with the temperature of the hot water supplied from the hot water supply unit 140. The control unit 190 may use the temperature detected by the first hot water supply temperature sensor T8 as the temperature of the hot water supplied from the hot water supply unit 140.

[0074] The control unit 190 may feedback control the mixing ratio of high-temperature hot water and water in the first mixing valve 27 based on the output signals of the mixed water temperature sensor T7 and the first hot water temperature sensor T8, etc., so that the temperature of the hot water discharged from the hot water supply unit 140 becomes a predetermined target value.

[0075] (2-1-4-3) Filling operation Filling operation is an operation in which hot water in the hot water storage tank 21 is supplied into the bathtub 150. In filling operation, by opening the filling solenoid valve 31, water from outside is supplied into the hot water storage tank 21 from the bottom of the hot water storage tank 21 via the tank water supply pipe L9 due to the water supply pressure. As a result, high-temperature hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 21 is pushed out from the top of the hot water storage tank 21 via the second boiling pipe L8.

[0076] High-temperature hot water is supplied from the hot water storage tank 21 to the second mixing valve 28 via the second boiling pipe L8, and water from outside is supplied to the second mixing valve 28 via the tank water supply pipe L9, the branch water supply pipe L10, and the second mixed water pipe L12. In the second mixing valve 28, the high-temperature hot water from the second boiling pipe L8 is mixed with the water from the second mixed water pipe L12. The mixed hot water is supplied into the bathtub 150 via the second hot water supply pipe L14.

[0077] When the control unit 190 receives a signal to start the water filling operation via the user's operation of the remote controller 130, it opens the water filling solenoid valve 31, and when the second flow rate sensor 33 detects an increase in the flow rate of hot water in the second hot water supply pipe L14, the control unit 190 starts the water filling operation. During the water filling operation, the control unit 190 controls the second mixing valve 28 according to the temperature of the hot water supplied to the bathtub 150. The control unit 190 may use the temperature detected by the second hot water supply temperature sensor T9 as the temperature of the hot water supplied to the bathtub 150.

[0078] The control unit 190 may feedback control the mixing ratio of high-temperature hot water and cold water in the second mixing valve 28 based on the output signals of the mixed water temperature sensor T7 and the second hot water temperature sensor T9, etc., so that the temperature of the hot water supplied into the bathtub 150 becomes a predetermined target value.

[0079] In addition, while the water filling operation is in progress, the control unit 190 may close the water filling solenoid valve 31 and end the water filling operation when it receives a signal to end the water filling operation by the user operating the remote controller 130, or when the water level in the bathtub 150 detected by a water level sensor (not shown) installed in the bathtub 150 reaches a predetermined target value.

[0080] (2-1-4-4) Reheating operation Reheating operation is an operation in which the hot water in the bathtub 150 is heated in the reheating heat exchanger 35 and returned to the bathtub 150. In reheating operation, by driving the reheating pump 34, a portion of the hot water in the bathtub 150 is guided to the reheating heat exchanger 35 via the first bathtub return pipe L16 and heated. The hot water heated in the reheating heat exchanger 35 is returned to the bathtub 150 via the second bathtub return pipe L17 and the second hot water supply pipe L14. In this way, in reheating operation, the hot water in the bathtub 150 is heated in the reheating heat exchanger 35 while circulating via the first bathtub return pipe L16, the second bathtub return pipe L17, and the second hot water supply pipe L14.

[0081] The reheating heat exchanger 35 exchanges heat between high-temperature hot water supplied from the hot water storage tank 21 via the second hot water supply pipe L14 and the first reheating pipe L18 and low-temperature hot water supplied from inside the bathtub 150 via the first bathtub return pipe L16. In this way, the reheating heat exchanger 35 heats the hot water supplied from inside the bathtub 150 via the first bathtub return pipe L16. The high-temperature hot water supplied to the reheating heat exchanger 35 via the first reheating pipe L18 undergoes heat exchange and is then supplied to the water inlet pipe L1 via the second reheating pipe L19 and the water inlet valve 23. The reheating heat exchanger 35 may be, for example, a counterflow heat exchanger in which high-temperature hot water and low-temperature hot water flow in opposite directions to exchange heat.

[0082] When the control unit 190 receives a signal to start the reheating operation via the user's operation of the remote controller 130, it controls the water inlet valve 23 to connect the water inlet pipe L1 to the second reheating pipe L19, and drives the boiling pump 24 and the reheating pump 34 to start the reheating operation. During the reheating operation, the control unit 190 controls the rotation speed of the boiling pump 24 and the reheating pump 34 according to the temperature of the hot water in the bathtub 150 and the temperature of the hot water returned from the reheating heat exchanger 35 to the bathtub 150. The control unit 190 may use the temperature detected by the bathtub return temperature sensor T10 as the temperature of the hot water in the bathtub 150, and the temperature detected by the second hot water temperature sensor T9 as the temperature of the hot water returned from the reheating heat exchanger 35 to the bathtub 150.

[0083] The control unit 190 may feedback control the rotation speed of the boiling pump 24 and the reheating pump 34 based on the output signals of the second hot water temperature sensor T9 and the bathtub return temperature sensor T10, etc., so that the temperature of the hot water in the bathtub 150 becomes a predetermined target value.

[0084] In addition, while the reheating operation is being performed, the control unit 190 may receive a signal to end the reheating operation by the user operating the remote controller 130, or when the temperature of the hot water in the bathtub 150 reaches a predetermined target value, control the water inlet valve 23 so that the second reheating pipe L19 does not communicate with the water inlet pipe L1, stop the reheating pump 34, and end the reheating operation.

[0085] (2-1-4-5) Operational Data Transmission Function Control unit 190 periodically (for example, every 30 seconds) transmits operational data D1 of water heating apparatus 100 to server 200.

[0086] The operating data D1 transmitted to the server 200 includes the measurement values ​​of the temperature sensors T1-T10, the measurement value of the first flow sensor 30, the measurement value of the second flow sensor 33, the operating frequency of the motor 11a of the compressor 11, the opening degree of the expansion valve 13, the state of the water inlet valve 23, the rotation speed of the boiling pump 24, the state of the bypass valve 25, the state of the boiling valve 26, the opening degree of the first mixing valve 27, the opening degree of the second mixing valve 28, the state of the water filling solenoid valve 31, and the rotation speed of the reheating pump 34, etc.

[0087] (2-2) Server The server 200 is a computer installed on the cloud. Fig. 4 is a control block diagram of the server 200. As shown in Fig. 4, the server 200 mainly includes a storage unit 41, an input unit 42, a display unit 43, a communication unit 44, and a control unit 49.

[0088] Memory 41 is a storage device such as RAM, ROM, and HDD. Memory 41 stores programs executed by control unit 49, data necessary for executing the programs, etc. Memory 41 particularly stores operating data D1 transmitted from water heating apparatus 100. Input 42 is a keyboard and a mouse. Various commands and information for server 200 can be input using input 42. Display 43 is a monitor. Display 43 can display various data stored in memory 41, etc. Communication unit 44 is a network interface device for communicating with aggregator 90, water heating apparatus 100, etc. via networks NW1 and NW2.

[0089] (2-2-1) Control Unit The control unit 49 is a processor such as a CPU or a GPU. The control unit 49 reads and executes programs stored in the storage unit 41 to realize various functions of the server 200. In addition, the control unit 49 can write calculation results to the storage unit 41 and read information stored in the storage unit 41 according to the programs.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 49 has, as functional blocks, an acquisition unit 491, an operation control unit 492, a calculation unit 493, and an output unit 494.

[0091] (2-2-1-1) Acquisition Unit Acquisition unit 491 receives a DR request for water heating apparatus 100 from aggregator 90 via network NW1. The DR request includes a first period. The first period is a period set in accordance with the DR request. The first period is also a period during which the power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 is adjusted.

[0092] The DR request includes a first request and a second request.

[0093] The first request is a request to increase the power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 in a first period compared to when no DR request has been received. Aggregator 90 makes a first request for demand response to server 200 before the arrival of a first period in which excess power is predicted in the commercial power grid. Hereinafter, the first request may be referred to as an increased DR request.

[0094] The second request is a request to reduce the power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 in the first period compared to when no DR request has been received. Aggregator 90 makes a second request for demand response to server 200 before the arrival of the first period in which power in the commercial power grid is predicted to be tight. Hereinafter, the second request may be referred to as a request for a reduced DR.

[0095] In this embodiment, it is assumed that server 200 receives the DR request immediately before the nighttime period during the boiling operation of water heating apparatus 100. Furthermore, it is assumed that the first period is the time period from 11:00 to 15:00 in the daytime period following the nighttime period.

[0096] Acquisition unit 491 also periodically (for example, every 30 seconds) acquires operating data D1 from water heating apparatus 100 via network NW2.

[0097] (2-2-1-2) Operation control unit Operation control unit 492 controls water heating apparatus 100 by transmitting operation settings of water heating apparatus 100 to water heating apparatus 100. In the present embodiment, the operation settings of water heating apparatus 100 are operation settings for the boiling operation of water heating apparatus 100.

[0098] The operation settings include a first operation setting and a second operation setting.

[0099] When no DR request is received from aggregator 90, operation control unit 492 controls water heating apparatus 100 according to the second operation setting.

[0100] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the settings of the second operation setting for the boiling operation of water heating apparatus 100. In Fig. 5, a bar graph represents power consumption P1, and a solid line graph G3 represents the amount of hot water stored in hot water storage tank 21. As shown in Fig. 5, in the second operation setting, nighttime boiling operation is performed from 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM the next day, and daytime boiling operation is performed from 11:00 PM to 1:00 PM.

[0101] When operation control unit 492 receives a DR request from aggregator 90, it determines the setting contents of the first operation setting of water heating apparatus 100 in response to the DR request, and controls water heating apparatus 100 using the first operation setting. In other words, operation control unit 492 controls water heating apparatus 100 using the first operation setting during the first period.

[0102] FIG. 6 illustrates the first operation setting when the DR request is an upward DR request. As shown in FIG. 6 , the first operation setting increases the power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 during the first period compared to the second operation setting. Therefore, the second operation setting changes the nighttime boiling operation from 4:00 AM to 5:00 AM to the daytime boiling operation from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, and the second operation setting changes the nighttime boiling operation from 11:00 PM to midnight to the daytime boiling operation from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM. In FIG. 6 , solid line graph G1 represents the amount of hot water stored in hot water storage tank 21 under the first operation setting, and dashed line graph G3 represents the amount of hot water stored in hot water storage tank 21 under the second operation setting. In this case, the first operation setting consumes more power than the second operation setting during the first period.

[0103] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the settings of the first operation setting when the DR request is a lowering DR request. As shown in FIG. 7 , the first operation setting reduces the power consumption of the water heating apparatus 100 during the first period compared to the second operation setting. Therefore, the daytime boiling operation performed from 11:00 to 13:00 is changed to the nighttime boiling operation performed from 5:00 to 7:00 under the second operation setting. In other words, under the first operation setting, the water heating apparatus 100 does not perform the boiling operation during the first period. In FIG. 7 , the solid line graph G2 represents the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 21 under the first operation setting, and the dashed line graph G3 represents the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 21 under the second operation setting. The first operation setting reduces the power consumption of the water heating apparatus 100 during the first period compared to the second operation setting.

[0104] (2-2-1-3) Calculation Unit Calculation unit 493 calculates first information based on operation data D1 of water heating apparatus 100 acquired from water heating apparatus 100. The first information includes the difference between the first power consumption and the second power consumption.

[0105] The first power consumption is the power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 when water heating apparatus 100 is controlled with the first operation setting during the first period. For example, after the first period has elapsed, calculation unit 493 calculates the first power consumption using a predetermined formula based on the operating frequency of motor 11a of compressor 11, the rotation speed of boiling pump 24, and the like, which are included in operation data D1 for the first period.

[0106] The second power consumption is the power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 predicted when water heating apparatus 100 is controlled with the second operation setting during the first period. Calculation unit 493 predicts the second power consumption during the first period using a predetermined formula, for example, based on operation data D1 for the same time period as the first period on a day when no DR request has been received after the first period has elapsed.

[0107] When the DR request is an increased DR, the difference between the first power consumption and the second power consumption is the increase in power consumption of the water heating device 100 during the first period compared to when no DR request was received.

[0108] When the DR request is a downward DR, the difference between the first power consumption and the second power consumption is the amount of reduction in power consumption of the water heating apparatus 100 during the first period compared to when no DR request was received.

[0109] The first information may further include the predicted second power consumption. The first information may further include the setting contents of the first operational settings and whether or not the first operational settings are to be executed.

[0110] (2-2-1-4) Output Unit Output unit 494 outputs the first information calculated by calculation unit 493. In the present embodiment, output unit 494 transmits the first information to water heating apparatus 100, thereby displaying (outputting) the first information on display unit 130a of water heating apparatus 100. Output unit 494 may transmit the first information to a mobile information terminal such as smartphone 91 owned by the user, thereby displaying the first information on the screen of the mobile information terminal. Output unit 494 may transmit the first information to aggregator 90, thereby outputting the first information to aggregator 90.

[0111] Furthermore, output unit 494 transmits the DR request received by acquisition unit 491 to water heating apparatus 100, thereby displaying the DR request on display unit 130a of water heating apparatus 100. Output unit 494 may notify the user of the DR request by transmitting the DR request to a mobile information terminal such as smartphone 91 owned by the user.

[0112] (3) Processing An example of processing of device control system 1 will be described using the flowchart in Fig. 8. As a premise, server 200 periodically acquires operation data D1 from water heating apparatus 100. In addition, server 200 controls water heating apparatus 100 using the second operation setting.

[0113] As shown in step S1 , server 200 receives a DR request for water heating apparatus 100 from aggregator 90 .

[0114] After step S1 is completed, as shown in step S2, server 200 determines the setting contents of the first operation setting of water heating apparatus 100 in response to the received DR request, and controls water heating apparatus 100 according to the first operation setting.

[0115] After step S2, the server 200 calculates the difference between the first power consumption and the second power consumption after the first period has elapsed, as shown in step S3.

[0116] After step S3, server 200 displays first information including the difference between the first power consumption and the second power consumption on display unit 130a of water heating apparatus 100, as shown in step S4.

[0117] (4) Features (4-1) Conventionally, a system has been known in which a user adjusts the power consumption of a device in a commercial power grid in response to a DR request from an aggregator, and the user receives an incentive from the aggregator according to the amount of adjustment.

[0118] However, there is a problem in that aggregators and users cannot determine the appropriateness of the incentive because they cannot grasp the difference between the power consumption of a device that complies with a DR request and the power consumption of the device if no DR request is received.

[0119] Device control system 1 of the present embodiment includes water heating apparatus 100 and server 200. Server 200 has control unit 49. Control unit 49 controls water heating apparatus 100 in response to a DR request. Control unit 49 receives the DR request from aggregator 90. Control unit 49 controls water heating apparatus 100 using a first operation setting during a first period. The first period is a period set in response to the DR request. The first period is a period during which the power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 is adjusted. Control unit 49 outputs first information based on operation data D1 of water heating apparatus 100 acquired from water heating apparatus 100. The first information includes a difference between the first power consumption and the second power consumption. The first power consumption is the power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 when water heating apparatus 100 is controlled using the first operation setting during the first period. The second power consumption is the power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 predicted when water heating apparatus 100 is controlled using the second operation setting during the first period. The second operation setting is an operation setting when the control unit 49 does not receive a DR request.

[0120] In device control system 1, control unit 49 outputs first information based on device operation data D1 acquired from water heating apparatus 100. The first information includes the difference between the first power consumption and the second power consumption. The first power consumption is the power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 when controlled with a first operation setting during a first period. The second power consumption is the power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 predicted when controlled with a second operation setting during a first period. The second operation setting is the operation setting when control unit 49 does not receive a DR request.

[0121] Therefore, appliance control system 1 can output to aggregator 90 or the user the difference between the first power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 in response to the DR request and the second power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 in the absence of the DR request. As a result, aggregator 90 or the user can grasp the difference between the first power consumption and the second power consumption and determine the appropriateness of the incentive.

[0122] (4-2) In device control system 1 of the present embodiment, the DR request is a second request. The second request is a request to reduce the power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 in the first time period compared to when control unit 49 has not received the DR request. The first operation setting reduces the power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 in the first time period compared to when control unit 49 has not received the DR request. The difference is the amount of reduction in power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 in the first time period compared to when control unit 49 has not received the DR request.

[0123] (4-3) In device control system 1 of the present embodiment, the DR request is a first request. The first request is a request to increase the power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 in the first time period compared to when control unit 49 has not received the DR request. The first operation setting results in more power consumption by water heating apparatus 100 in the first time period than the second operation setting. The difference is the amount of increase in power consumption by water heating apparatus 100 in the first time period compared to when control unit 49 has not received the DR request.

[0124] (4-4) In the device control system 1 of this embodiment, the first information further includes the second power consumption. As a result, the device control system 1 can provide the aggregator 90 and the user with additional information for determining the appropriateness of the incentive.

[0125] (4-5) In the device control system 1 of this embodiment, the first information further includes the setting contents of the first operational setting and whether or not the first operational setting is executed. As a result, the device control system 1 can provide the aggregator 90 and the user with additional information for determining the appropriateness of the incentive.

[0126] (4-6) In the device control system 1 of this embodiment, the control unit 49 outputs the first information to the aggregator 90.

[0127] (4-7) The device control system 1 of this embodiment further includes a display unit 130a. The control unit 49 outputs the first information to the display unit 130a.

[0128] (5) Modifications (5-1) Modification 1A In the present embodiment, device control system 1 has one water heating device 100 as the device to be controlled in response to a DR request. However, the device to be controlled in response to a DR request may be a device other than water heating device 100, such as an air conditioner.

[0129] Furthermore, the device control system 1 may control a plurality of devices in response to a DR request. In this case, the control unit 49 determines the first operational setting for each of the plurality of devices in response to the DR request and outputs the first information.

[0130] (5-2) Modification 1B In this embodiment, the first period is set as a period for a specific day. However, the first period may be set for each day. In this case, the control unit 49 may output the first information for each day.

[0131] (5-3) Modification 1C In the present embodiment, in the first operation setting when the DR request is a lowering DR request, water heating apparatus 100 does not perform the boiling operation during the first period. However, water heating apparatus 100 may perform the boiling operation during the first period using surplus power generated by the solar power generation system. Because the boiling operation is performed using surplus power, water heating apparatus 100 does not consume power from the commercial power grid.

[0132] The solar power generation system is installed on the roof or the like of the facility where the hot water supply system 100 is installed. The solar power generation system is connected to the first control device 10 and the second control device 20 via wireless or wired communication to enable bidirectional data communication. The hot water supply system 100 and other electrical equipment used in the facility can be operated using the power generated by the solar power generation system.

[0133] (5-4) Modification 1D In the present embodiment, in the first operation setting when the DR request is a lowering DR request, water heating apparatus 100 does not perform the boiling operation during the first time period. However, water heating apparatus 100 may perform the boiling operation during a part of the first time period.

[0134] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the settings of the first operation setting in this modified example when the DR request is a lowering DR request. Unlike FIG. 7 , in FIG. 9 , water heating apparatus 100 performs daytime boiling operation from 11:00 to 12:00. The first operation time (1 hour in FIG. 9 ), which is the operation time of the first operation setting in the first period, is shorter than the second operation time (2 hours in FIG. 9 ), which is the operation time of the second operation setting in the first period. Therefore, the first operation setting reduces the power consumption of water heating apparatus 100 in the first period compared to the second operation setting. In this case, the first information may further include the difference between the first operation time and the second operation time (1 hour in FIG. 9 ).

[0135] (5-5) Variation 1E In this embodiment, when the DR request is a lowering DR request, the first operating time, which is the operating time of the first operating setting in the first period, is shorter than the second operating time, which is the operating time of the second operating setting in the first period.

[0136] However, for example, the first operating time in the first period and the second operating time in the first period may be the same, and the operating capacity of the boiling operation with the first operating setting in the first period may be lower than the operating capacity of the boiling operation with the second operating setting in the first period.

[0137] For example, in the boiling operation with the first operation setting in the first period, the upper limit of the operation frequency of the motor 11a of the compressor 11 is set lower than in the boiling operation with the second operation setting in the first period. Also, for example, in the boiling operation with the first operation setting in the first period, the outlet hot water temperature is set lower than in the boiling operation with the second operation setting in the first period.

[0138] (5-6) Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined in the claims.

[0139] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Device control system 49 Control unit 90 Aggregator 100 Water heater (device) 130a Display unit 200 Server D1 Operation data

[0140] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-170925

Claims

1. A device control system (1) comprising: one or more devices (100); and a server (200) having a control unit (49) configured to control the devices in response to a demand response request, wherein the control unit receives the request from an aggregator (90), controls the devices according to a first operation setting during a first period in which the power consumption of the devices is adjusted according to the request, and outputs first information including a difference between a first power consumption of the devices when the devices are controlled according to the first operation setting during the first period and a second power consumption of the devices predicted when the devices are controlled according to a second operation setting which is an operation setting when the control unit does not receive the request during the first period, based on operation data (D1) of the devices acquired from the devices.

2. The device control system (1) according to claim 1, wherein the request is a second request for reducing the power consumption of the devices during the first period as compared to when the control unit does not receive the request, the first operation setting results in less power consumption of the devices during the first period than the second operation setting, and the difference is an amount of reduction in the power consumption of the devices during the first period as compared to when the control unit does not receive the request.

3. The device control system (1) according to claim 1, wherein the request is a first request for increasing the power consumption of the devices during the first period as compared to when the control unit does not receive the request, the first operation setting results in more power consumption of the devices during the first period than the second operation setting, and the difference is an amount of increase in the power consumption of the devices during the first period as compared to when the control unit does not receive the request.

4. The device control system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first information further includes the second power consumption.

5. The device control system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first information further includes the content of the setting of the first operation setting and whether the first operation setting is executed.

6. The device control system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the control unit outputs the first information for each of the plurality of devices.

7. The device control system (1) according to claim 6, wherein the control unit determines the content of the setting of the first operation setting for each of the plurality of devices.

8. The first period is set daily, and the control unit outputs the first information daily. The device control system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The request is a second request for reducing the power consumption of the device compared to when the control unit has not received the request. The first operation time, which is the operation time of the first operation setting in the first period, is shorter than the second operation time, which is the operation time of the second operation setting in the first period. The device control system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The first information further includes the difference between the first operation time and the second operation time. The device control system (1) according to claim 9.

11. The request is a second request for reducing the power consumption of the device compared to when the control unit has not received the request. The operation capacity of the first operation setting in the first period is lower than the operation capacity of the second operation setting in the first period. The device control system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The control unit outputs the first information to the aggregator. The device control system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. Further comprising a display unit (130a), and the control unit outputs the first information to the display unit. The device control system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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