Blowing system

Abstract

The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a blowing system that can create a space in which a person in a prescribed area into which air is blown feels more comfortable. A blowing system (VS1) comprises a nozzle unit (1), a blowing device (2), and a control device (4). The nozzle unit (1) has at least two nozzles (10) that each have a housing (10a). The blowing device (2) delivers air into the housing (10a) of each of the at least two nozzles (10). A blowing port (10b) is formed in a lower surface of the housing (10a) of each of the at least two nozzles (10). The blowing port (10b) blows the air delivered into the housing (10a) to a prescribed area that is outside the housing (10a). The control device (4) has a control part (41) that adjusts the blowing amount of the blowing device (2) such that the sensible temperature that is felt by a person in the prescribed area is a set value.

Description

ventilation system

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a blower system, and more particularly to a blower system including at least two nozzles arranged side by side and formed in a hollow, elongated shape.

[0002] The blower device in Patent Document 1 includes multiple nozzles of equal length. Each nozzle has an inlet and an outlet. High-pressure air flows into the nozzle through the inlet, and the high-pressure air in the nozzle is blown out through the outlet. The multiple nozzles are provided with gaps between them so that their outlets are flush with each other, and these gaps form induction paths outside the nozzles for air drawn in by the airflow blown out from the outlets. The blower device also includes a damper mechanism that changes the opening area of ​​the nozzle inlet, and the blowing range can be adjusted by adjusting the opening area of ​​the nozzle inlet.

[0003] In the air blowing device (air blowing system) as disclosed in Patent Document 1, it is required to create a space in which people in a predetermined area where the high-pressure air (air) is blown out can feel more comfortable.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-3658

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an air blowing system that can create a space in which people in a specified area where air is blown out feel more comfortable.

[0006] An air blowing system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a nozzle unit, an air blowing device, and a control device. The nozzle unit has at least two nozzles. The at least two nozzles each have a hollow, elongated housing extending along a first direction, and are arranged side by side along a second direction intersecting the first direction. The air blowing device sends air into the housing for each of the at least two nozzles. The control device controls the air blowing device. An air outlet extending along the first direction is formed on the underside of the housing for each of the at least two nozzles. The air outlet blows the air sent into the housing to a predetermined area outside the housing. The control device has a control unit that adjusts the airflow rate of the air blowing device so that the sensible temperature felt by a person in the predetermined area becomes a set value.

[0007] Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a blowing system of this embodiment. Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing the blowing system. Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing a blowing unit provided in the blowing system. Fig. 4 is a side cross-sectional view showing the blowing unit. Fig. 5 is a bottom view showing the blowing unit. Fig. 6 is a view showing a part of the blowing unit. Fig. 7 is a view showing a direct downward airflow in the blowing system. Fig. 8 is a view showing an oblique airflow in the blowing system. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the blowing system.

[0008] The embodiment described below is merely an example of an embodiment of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiment, and various modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as the effects of the present disclosure can be achieved.

[0009] In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are defined as being orthogonal to each other in FIG. 2 . For convenience, one of the two directions along the X-axis will be referred to as the rightward direction, and the other as the leftward direction. Furthermore, one of the two directions along the Y-axis will be referred to as the forward direction, and the other as the backward direction. Furthermore, one of the two directions along the Z-axis will be referred to as the upward direction, and the other as the downward direction.

[0010] 1 and 2 show a ventilation system VS1 according to this embodiment. The ventilation system VS1 is used in facilities such as office buildings, offices, stores, factories, and commercial facilities. The ventilation system VS1 may also be used in apartment buildings, detached houses, and the like. The ventilation system VS1 is intended to be installed in buildings such as facilities and houses, but may also be installed in structures other than buildings.

[0011] The air blowing system VS1 according to this embodiment includes a nozzle unit 1, an air blower 2, and a control device 4. The nozzle unit 1 has at least two nozzles 10. The at least two nozzles 10 each have a housing 10a (see FIG. 4) formed in a hollow, elongated shape extending along a first direction, and are arranged side by side along a second direction intersecting the first direction, as shown in FIG. 3. The air blower 2 sends air into the housings 10a of the at least two nozzles 10. The control device 4 controls the air blower 2.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 4, the underside of each housing 10a of at least two nozzles 10 has an air outlet 10b extending along the first direction. The air outlet 10b blows air sent into the housing 10a into a predetermined area E1 (see FIG. 2) outside the housing 10a. The control device 4 has a control unit 41 that adjusts the airflow rate of the air blower 2 so that the sensible temperature felt by a person X1 (see FIG. 2) present in the predetermined area E1 becomes the set value. Note that, in this disclosure, "the sensible temperature becomes the set value" is not limited to the case where the sensible temperature exactly matches the set value, and a margin of error is allowed. In other words, "the sensible temperature becomes the set value" may also mean that the sensible temperature is within an allowable range of the set value. The allowable range here is, for example, approximately ±5%.

[0013] In the air blowing system VS1 having the above-described configuration, the control unit 41 adjusts the airflow rate of the air blowing device 2 so that the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 in the predetermined area E1 from which air is blown out is a set value, thereby controlling the sensible temperature felt by the person X1. In other words, the air blowing system VS1 has the advantage of being able to create a space in which the person X1 in the predetermined area E1 from which air is blown out feels more comfortable.

[0014] In this embodiment, the first direction corresponds to the left-right direction along the X axis, and the second direction corresponds to the front-rear direction along the Y axis.

[0015] (2) Detailed Configuration (2-1) Overall As shown in Fig. 2, the air blowing system VS1 is installed in a room R1. The room R1 is a space where a person X1 is present, such as a working space, a conference room, a break room, a waiting room, a reception room, or a living room. The upper surface of the room R1 is a ceiling R11, and the lower surface of the room R1 is a floor R12.

[0016] The ventilation system VS1 blows air to a predetermined area E1 in the interior space of the room R1. In the present disclosure, the "predetermined area E1" refers to a portion of the interior space of the room R1 (the space surrounded by the ceiling R11, the floor R12, and the walls).

[0017] 1 and 2, the air blowing system VS1 includes a nozzle unit 1, a first nozzle air blowing device 21, a second nozzle air blowing device 22, a carrier air blowing device 3, and a control device 4. The nozzle unit 1 has eight nozzles 10. Here, the nozzle unit 1, the first nozzle air blowing device 21, the second nozzle air blowing device 22, and the carrier air blowing device 3 constitute an air blowing unit U1. Each of the first nozzle air blowing device 21 and the second nozzle air blowing device 22 corresponds to the air blowing device 2 of the present disclosure.

[0018] Preferably, the air blowing system VS1 further includes an operation terminal 5, a human presence sensor 6, a surface temperature sensor 7, and an area temperature sensor 8, as shown in FIGS.

[0019] (2-2) Blower Unit The blower unit U1 is fixed to the underside of the ceiling R11 with hanging bolts or wires (not shown). As shown in FIG. 1 , the blower unit U1 includes a nozzle unit 1, a first nozzle blower 21, a second nozzle blower 22, and a transport blower 3.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 3 , the nozzle unit 1 includes eight nozzles 10. As shown in FIG. 5 , each of the eight nozzles 10 has a hollow, rectangular, plate-like housing 10a whose long sides extend left-right along the X-axis. A rectangular opening whose long sides extend left-right is formed on the underside of the housing 10a as an air outlet 10b. The air outlet 10b is formed at the center of the underside of the housing 10a in the front-to-rear direction. The housings 10a of the eight nozzles 10 are arranged in parallel in the front-to-rear direction along the Y-axis. The front surface of the housing 10a of one nozzle 10 faces the rear surface of the housing 10a of the nozzle 10 adjacent to it, and the rear surface of the housing 10a of one nozzle 10 faces the front surface of the housing 10a of the nozzle 10 adjacent to it. The housings 10a are formed of, for example, a resin material, but may also be formed of a lightweight metal material such as aluminum.

[0021] 4, a partition plate 10c is provided in the internal space of the housing 10a at the center in the longitudinal direction of the housing 10a. The partition plate 10c divides the internal space of the housing 10a into two spaces: a right space 10d on the right side and a left space 10e on the left side.

[0022] An opening 10f is formed at the right end of the housing 10a, and the right space 10d communicates with the outside of the housing 10a via the opening 10f. Similarly, an opening 10g is formed at the left end of the housing 10a, and the left space 10e communicates with the outside of the housing 10a via the opening 10g.

[0023] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, a plurality of fins 10h are provided on the underside of each of the right and left spaces 10d, 10e, aligned in the left-right direction at regular intervals along the X axis. The fins 10h are plate-shaped and extend upward from the underside of each of the right and left spaces 10d, 10e, and cover the lower portions of each of the right and left spaces 10d, 10e (parts of the lower sides of each of the right and left spaces 10d, 10e) when viewed from the direction along the X axis. As shown in Figure 5, when the housing 10a of the nozzle 10 is viewed from below, the plurality of fins 10h are positioned to divide the air outlet 10b at regular intervals along the X axis.

[0024] The first nozzle blower device 21 is a crossflow fan having a hollow rectangular housing 21a and a fan 21b inside the housing 21a. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the first nozzle blower device 21 is provided at the right end (first end) 1a of the nozzle unit 1, with the left surface of the housing 21a facing the right end surface of the nozzle unit 1. The housing 21a is connected to a duct (not shown) and receives air from the duct. An air outlet 21c (see FIG. 4 ) is formed on the left surface of the housing 21a. When the fan 21b rotates, air is blown leftward from the air outlet 21c and flows into the right space 10d through the openings 10f of each nozzle 10 of the nozzle unit 1. That is, the first nozzle blower device 21 sends air from the openings 10f of each nozzle 10 into the right space 10d, generating an internal airflow F11 (see FIG. 4 ) in the right space 10d that flows leftward from the openings 10f. The internal airflow F11 is rectified by the fins 10h in the right space 10d and blown downward from the air outlet 10b on the bottom surface of the housing 10a.

[0025] The second nozzle blower device 22 is a crossflow fan having a hollow rectangular housing 22a and a fan 22b inside the housing 22a. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the second nozzle blower device 22 is provided at the left end (second end) 1b of the nozzle unit 1, with the right surface of the housing 22a facing the left end surface of the nozzle unit 1. The housing 22a is connected to a duct (not shown) and receives air from the duct. An air outlet 22c (see FIG. 4 ) is formed on the right surface of the housing 22a. When the fan 22b rotates, air blown to the right from the air outlet 22c flows into the left space 10e through the openings 10g of each nozzle 10 of the nozzle unit 1. That is, the second nozzle blower device 22 sends air from the openings 10f of each nozzle 10 into the left space 10e, generating an internal airflow F12 (see FIG. 4 ) in the left space 10e that flows rightward from the openings 10g. The internal airflow F12 is rectified by the fins 10h in the left space 10e and blown downward from the air outlet 10b on the bottom surface of the housing 10a.

[0026] That is, as shown in FIG. 6, each of the eight nozzles 10 constituting the nozzle unit 1 generates an airflow F2 by blowing air downward from a long air outlet 10b on the underside of the housing 10a.

[0027] Here, an induction path 91 shown in FIG. 6 is formed between two nozzles 10 adjacent in the front-to-rear direction. The induction path 91 is a space sandwiched between the rear surface of the housing 10a of the front nozzle 10 and the front surface of the housing 10a of the rear nozzle 10, and is open above and below. When each of the two nozzles 10 arranged side by side generates an airflow F2 blown downward from the air outlet 10b, the induction path 91 becomes negative pressure, and air in an upper space 92 above the two nozzles 10 is drawn downward into the induction path 91. The air drawn downward through the induction path 91 is blown downward from the induction path 91. The air blown downward from the induction path 91 generates an induction airflow F3 flowing downward from the induction path 91.

[0028] As a result, an induced airflow F3 is generated between the two blown airflows F2 generated by the two adjacent nozzles 10 below the nozzle unit 1, and a downward airflow F1 is generated by the combination of the blown airflow F2 and the induced airflow F3. The downward airflow F1 is blown downward from the nozzle unit 1.

[0029] If the flow rate of the downward air current F1 at the air outlet 10b is defined as the air volume of the nozzle unit 1, then as the rotation speeds of the fans 21b and 22b increase, the air volume of the nozzle unit 1 increases, and as the rotation speeds of the fans 21b and 22b decrease, the air volume of the nozzle unit 1 decreases. The rotation speeds of the fans 21b and 22b are controlled by the control device 4.

[0030] The transport air blower 3 generates a transport airflow F21 that changes the direction (air blowing direction) in which air is blown out from the air outlet 10b of each of the plurality of nozzles 10. The transport air blower 3 is a cross-flow fan that is disposed above the nozzle unit 1, draws in ambient air, and generates a transport airflow F21 (see FIG. 4 ) from the right end (first end) 1a toward the left end (second end) 1b of the nozzle unit 1.

[0031] Specifically, as shown in Fig. 3, the transporting air blowing device 3 is disposed above the first nozzle air blowing device 21 (or above the right end 1a of the nozzle unit 1). The transporting air blowing device 3 is fixed to the underside of the ceiling R11 with a hanging bolt or wire (not shown). The transporting air blowing device 3 includes a hollow rectangular housing 3a, and a fan 3b is disposed inside the housing 3a. An air outlet 3c is formed on the left side of the housing 3a, and when the fan 3b rotates, air blown out from the air outlet 3c to the left becomes a transporting airflow F21 (see Fig. 4) that flows from right to left above the nozzle unit 1.

[0032] If the flow rate of the transport airflow F21 at the air outlet 3c is defined as the air volume of the transport air blower 3, the higher the rotation speed of the fan 3b, the larger the air volume of the transport air blower 3, and the lower the rotation speed of the fan 3b, the smaller the air volume of the transport air blower 3. The rotation speed of the fan 3b is controlled by the control device 4.

[0033] The air blower unit U1 of this embodiment further includes a communication device 9 (see FIG. 1 ) that performs wired or wireless communication with the control device 4. Note that the wired communication referred to in this disclosure refers to wired communication via, for example, a twisted pair cable, a dedicated communication line, or a LAN (Local Area Network) cable. Furthermore, the wireless communication referred to in this disclosure refers to wireless communication that complies with standards such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), or unlicensed low-power wireless (specified low-power wireless).

[0034] The communication device 9 receives control signals indicating the control content of the control device 4 (more specifically, the control unit 41, which will be described later) by performing wired or wireless communication with the control device 4. Furthermore, the communication device 9 of this embodiment performs wired communication with each of the first nozzle air blower 21, the second nozzle air blower 22, and the air carrier blower 3. The communication device 9 outputs control signals received from the control device 4 to each of the first nozzle air blower 21, the second nozzle air blower 22, and the air carrier blower 3. In other words, each of the first nozzle air blower 21, the second nozzle air blower 22, and the air carrier blower 3 receives control signals by performing wired or wireless communication with the control device 4 via the communication device 9. Note that the communication device 9 is omitted from the illustration in FIG. 2 .

[0035] (2-3) Control Device The control device 4 controls at least the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22. In this embodiment, the control device 4 controls the first nozzle blower device 21, the second nozzle blower device 22, and the transport blower device 3.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 1 , the control device 4 includes a control unit 41 , an estimation unit 42 , and a calculation unit 43 .

[0037] The control unit 41 controls the operation and stop of each of the first nozzle blower device 21, the second nozzle blower device 22, and the carrier air blower device 3. Furthermore, the control unit 41 controls the air blowing volume of each of the first nozzle blower device 21, the second nozzle blower device 22, and the carrier air blower device 3. More specifically, the control unit 41 controls the rotation speed of the fan 21b of the first nozzle blower device 21, the rotation speed of the fan 22b of the second nozzle blower device 22, and the rotation speed of the fan 3b of the carrier air blower device 3. As an example, the control unit 41 controls the rotation speed of the motor that rotates the fan 21b of the first nozzle blower device 21, the rotation speed of the motor that rotates the fan 22b of the second nozzle blower device 22, and the rotation speed of the motor that rotates the fan 3b of the carrier air blower device 3.

[0038] The estimation unit 42 estimates the sensible temperature felt by a person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 based on the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22. More specifically, when estimating the sensible temperature, the estimation unit 42 uses the rotation speed of the motor that rotates the fan 21b of the first nozzle blower device 21 as the airflow rate of the first nozzle blower device 21, and uses the rotation speed of the motor that rotates the fan 22b of the second nozzle blower device 22 as the airflow rate of the second nozzle blower device 22. That is, the estimation unit 42 estimates the sensible temperature felt by a person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 based on the rotation speed of the motor that rotates the fan 21b of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the rotation speed of the motor that rotates the fan 22b of the second nozzle blower device 22. In this embodiment, the estimation unit 42 estimates the sensible temperature felt by person X1 present in the specified area E1 based on the value controlled by the control unit 41 for the rotation speed of the motors that rotate each of fan 21b and fan 22b.

[0039] The calculation unit 43 calculates, based on the difference between the sensible temperature estimated by the estimation unit 42 and a preset set value, how much the control unit 41 needs to adjust the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22 so that the sensible temperature felt by person X1 present in the specified area E1 becomes the above set value. That is, based on the difference between the sensible temperature estimated by the estimation unit 42 and the preset set value, the calculation unit 43 calculates the adjustment amounts of the airflow rates of each of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22 so that the sensible temperature felt by person X1 present in the specified area E1 becomes the above set value.

[0040] The control unit 41 adjusts (controls) the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22 based on the adjustment amount calculated by the calculation unit 43. In other words, the control unit 41 adjusts the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22 so that the sensible temperature estimated by the estimator 42 becomes the set value. More specifically, the control unit 41 adjusts the rotation speed of the fan 21b of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the rotation speed of the fan 22b of the second nozzle blower device 22 so that the sensible temperature estimated by the estimator 42 becomes the set value. As an example, the control unit 41 adjusts the rotation speed of the motor that rotates the fan 21b of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the rotation speed of the motor that rotates the fan 22b of the second nozzle blower device 22 so that the sensible temperature estimated by the estimator 42 becomes the set value.

[0041] According to the above configuration, the control unit 41 does not need to externally input the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1, and can adjust the airflow rate of the air blower 2 so that the sensible temperature becomes the set value. In other words, the air blowing system VS1 has the advantage of being able to create a space in which the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 feels more comfortable, without needing to externally input the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1.

[0042] Hereinafter, the configuration in which the control unit 41 of this embodiment adjusts the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22 will be described in more detail.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 1 , the control device 4 of this embodiment further includes an acquisition unit 44 , a storage unit 45 , a notification unit 46 , and a communication unit 47 .

[0044] The acquisition unit 44 acquires information necessary for the control unit 41 to adjust the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower 21 and the second nozzle blower 22 so that the sensible temperature felt by a person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 becomes a set value. The acquisition unit 44 has a request acquisition unit 441, a situation acquisition unit 442, and a temperature acquisition unit 443.

[0045] The need acquisition unit 441 acquires, as a set value, a desired value, which is the value of the sensible temperature desired by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1. The need acquisition unit 441 of the present embodiment acquires, as a set value, the desired value input by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 via an operation unit 51 (described later) of the operation terminal 5, via the communication unit 47. More specifically, in the present embodiment, the communication unit 47 receives an operation signal including the desired value input by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 via the operation unit 51 from a communication unit 53 (described later) of the operation terminal 5, and the need acquisition unit 441 acquires the desired value as a set value.

[0046] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, when a plurality of people X1 are present in the predetermined area E1, the request acquisition unit 441 acquires, as the set value, the average value of the request values ​​desired by each of the plurality of people. More specifically, when the communication unit 47 receives detection information from the human presence sensor 6 indicating that the human presence sensor 6 has detected the presence of a plurality of people X1 in the predetermined area E1, the request acquisition unit 441 receives, via the communication unit 47, operation signals including a plurality of request values ​​input by each of the plurality of people via the operation unit 51 of the operation terminal 5, and calculates (acquires) the average value of the plurality of request values ​​as the set value. This configuration has the advantage that the air blowing system VS1 can create a space that is likely to be comfortable for each of the plurality of people X1 present in the predetermined area E1 from which air is blown out.

[0047] The situation acquisition unit 442 acquires the relative humidity of the predetermined area E1 and the radiation temperature, metabolic rate, and amount of clothing of the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1. In this embodiment, the situation acquisition unit 442 acquires the relative humidity of the predetermined area E1 and the radiation temperature, metabolic rate, and amount of clothing of each of the multiple people X1 present in the predetermined area E1. In this disclosure, "relative humidity" refers to a value representing the amount of water vapor contained in the air of the predetermined area E1. More specifically, it refers to a value representing the ratio of the amount of water vapor present in the air of the predetermined area E1 to the amount of water vapor required to saturate the air at the same temperature. In this disclosure, "radiant temperature" refers to the temperature generated by electromagnetic waves such as infrared rays emitted by the person X1. In this disclosure, "metabolic rate" refers to a measure of the amount of energy produced internally by the person X1 when the person X1 performs work (e.g., moving, breathing, talking, etc.). In this disclosure, "amount of clothing" refers to a measure of the amount of clothing worn by the person X1.

[0048] In this embodiment, the storage unit 45 pre-stores the estimated relative humidity of the predetermined area E1 and the estimated metabolic rate and amount of clothing of each of the multiple people X1 present in the predetermined area E1, and the situation acquisition unit 442 acquires the relative humidity, metabolic rate, and amount of clothing stored in the storage unit 45. The storage unit 45 includes, for example, a rewritable non-volatile memory such as an EEPROM.

[0049] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the situation acquisition unit 442 acquires the radiation temperature of each of the multiple people X1 present in the predetermined area E1 based on the results of measurements of the surface temperature of each of the multiple people X1 by the surface temperature sensor 7. More specifically, the communication unit 47 receives, from the surface temperature sensor 7, a surface temperature signal including the results of measurements of the surface temperatures of each of the multiple people X1 present in the predetermined area E1 by the surface temperature sensor 7, and the situation acquisition unit 442 acquires the radiation temperature of each of the multiple people X1 based on the results received by the communication unit 47. More specifically, the situation acquisition unit 442 acquires the surface temperature of each of the multiple people X1 present in the predetermined area E1 measured by the surface temperature sensor 7 as the radiation temperature of each of the multiple people X1. This configuration has the advantage of being able to create a space in which each of the multiple people X1 present in the predetermined area E1 feels comfortable, depending on the surface temperature of each of the multiple people X1 present in the predetermined area E1 from which air is blown out.

[0050] The temperature acquisition unit 443 acquires at least one of the temperature of the predetermined area E1, the temperature of the air sent into the housing 10a of each of the plurality of nozzles 10, and the temperature of the air blown into the predetermined area E1 from the air outlet 10b of each of the plurality of nozzles 10 as the acquired temperature. In this embodiment, the temperature acquisition unit 443 acquires the temperature of the predetermined area E1 as the acquired temperature. More specifically, in this embodiment, the communication unit 47 receives an area temperature signal from the area temperature sensor 8, including the result of measuring the temperature of the predetermined area E1 by the area temperature sensor 8, and the temperature acquisition unit 443 acquires the temperature of the predetermined area E1 as the acquired temperature based on the result received by the communication unit 47. That is, the temperature acquisition unit 443 in this embodiment acquires the temperature of the predetermined area E1 measured by the area temperature sensor 8 as the acquired temperature. Note that, in this disclosure, the "temperature of the predetermined area E1" refers to the temperature of the air present in the predetermined area E1.

[0051] The estimation unit 42 of the present embodiment estimates the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 based on the relative humidity of the predetermined area E1 acquired by the situation acquisition unit 442, the radiant temperature, metabolic rate, and amount of clothing of the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1, the acquired temperature acquired by the temperature acquisition unit 443, and the airflow rates (more specifically, the current airflow rates) of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22. This configuration allows the estimation unit 42 to more accurately estimate the sensible temperature. As a result, the air blowing system VS1 has the advantage of being able to more accurately create a space in which each of the multiple people X1 feels comfortable.

[0052] The calculation unit 43 of this embodiment calculates adjustment amounts for the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22 based on the difference between the sensible temperature estimated by the estimator 42 and the desired value acquired by the desire acquisition unit 441, so that the sensible temperature felt by person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 becomes the desired value. The control unit 41 of this embodiment adjusts the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22 based on the adjustment amounts calculated by the calculation unit 43. In short, the control unit 41 of this embodiment adjusts the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22 so that the sensible temperature estimated by the estimator 42 becomes the desired value. This configuration has the advantage that the air blowing system VS1 can create a space with a sensible temperature desired by person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 from which air is blown out.

[0053] The control unit 41 of this embodiment feedback controls the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22. That is, the control unit 41 of this embodiment readjusts (controls) the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22 at predetermined time intervals. The "predetermined time" here refers to a time that is empirically set in advance.

[0054] Hereinafter, a detailed description will be given of the configuration in which the control unit 41 feedback-controls the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22.

[0055] The temperature acquisition unit 443 of this embodiment acquires the acquired temperature again a predetermined time after the control unit 41 adjusts the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22. That is, the temperature acquisition unit 443 of this embodiment acquires the temperature of the predetermined area E1 as the acquired temperature again a predetermined time after the control unit 41 adjusts the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22. Thereafter, the estimation unit 42 of this embodiment re-estimates the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 based on the relative humidity of the predetermined area E1 acquired by the situation acquisition unit 442, the radiant temperature, metabolic rate, and amount of clothing of the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1, the acquired temperature acquired again by the temperature acquisition unit 443, and the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22 (more specifically, the airflow rates previously adjusted by the control unit 41). Then, the control unit 41 adjusts the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22 again so that the sensible temperature estimated by the estimation unit 42 becomes the desired value (set value).

[0056] According to the above configuration, even if a change in circumstances occurs that changes the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 (for example, when the person X1 enters or leaves the area, or when the operating status of the air conditioning equipment changes), the control unit 41 can readjust the airflow rate of the air blower 2 so that the sensible temperature returns to the set value. In other words, the air blowing system VS1 has the advantage that, even if a change in circumstances occurs that changes the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1, the air blowing system VS1 can recreate a space in which the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 feels comfortable.

[0057] When the difference between the sensible temperature estimated by the estimation unit 42 and the desired value acquired by the desired value acquisition unit 441 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the notification unit 46 notifies the person X1 of recommendation information recommending that the person X1 move to an area other than the predetermined area E1. The "predetermined value" here refers to a value empirically set in advance, such as a value input and set by the person X1 via the operation unit 51 of the operation terminal 5. As an example, when the difference between the sensible temperature estimated by the estimation unit 42 and the desired value acquired by the desired value acquisition unit 441 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the notification unit 46 of the present embodiment transmits the recommendation information to the communication unit 53 of the operation terminal 5 via the communication unit 47, and the display unit 52 of the operation terminal 5 displays the recommendation information received by the communication unit 53. The operation terminal 5 may also have a sound output unit (e.g., a speaker) that outputs the recommendation information received by the communication unit 53 as audio. The above configuration has the advantage of being able to suggest that the person X1 in the predetermined area E1 move to an area other than the predetermined area E1 so that the person X1 feels comfortable.

[0058] The communication unit 47 performs wired or wireless communication with each of the communication device 9, the operation terminal 5, the human presence sensor 6, the surface temperature sensor 7, and the area temperature sensor 8. The communication unit 47 performs wired or wireless communication with the communication device 9, thereby transmitting a control signal indicating at least the control content of the control unit 41.

[0059] The control device 4 preferably includes a computer system. In the computer system, a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) reads and executes programs stored in memory to realize the functions of the control unit 41, estimation unit 42, calculation unit 43, acquisition unit 44, and notification unit 46. The computer system includes a processor that operates according to a program as its main hardware configuration. The type of processor is not important as long as it can realize the functions by executing the program. The processor is composed of one or more electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or an LSI (Large Scale Integration). Although ICs and LSIs are used here, the names may vary depending on the degree of integration, and may be called system LSIs, very large scale integrations (VLSIs), or ultra large scale integrations (ULSIs). Field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), which are programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or reconfigurable logic devices that can reconfigure the connections within the LSI or set up circuit partitions within the LSI, can also be used for the same purpose. The electronic circuits may be integrated on one chip or may be provided on multiple chips. The multiple chips may be integrated on one device or may be provided on multiple devices. The program may be provided via an electric communication line or may be provided recorded on a recording medium such as a memory card.

[0060] (2-4) Operation Terminal The operation terminal 5 is a device that accepts operations of the person X1 on the air blower unit U1 and the control device 4 and displays information to the person X1 regarding the air blower unit U1 or the control device 4. As shown in FIG. 1 , the operation terminal 5 has an operation unit 51, a display unit 52, and a communication unit 53.

[0061] The operation unit 51 has a function of accepting operations from the person X1. The operation unit 51 is, for example, a keyboard, a pointing device, or a mechanical switch.

[0062] The display unit 52 displays information to the person X1. The display unit 52 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, or the like. The operation unit 51 has a function of accepting operations from the person X1. In this embodiment, the operation terminal 5 is equipped with a touch panel display, which also functions as the display unit 52 and the operation unit 51. As an example, the information displayed by the display unit 52 to the person X1 is the operating status of the air blower unit U1, the control status of the control device 4, etc.

[0063] The communication unit 53 performs wired or wireless communication with the communication unit 47 of the control device 4. The communication unit 53 transmits the operation of person X1 received by the operation unit 51 as an operation signal to the communication unit 47 of the control device 4. Furthermore, the communication unit 53 receives information displayed by the display unit 52 from the communication unit 47 of the control device 4.

[0064] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the operation terminal 5 is installed on a wall surface of a room R1 as shown in Fig. 2. Note that the operation terminal 5 may be a smartphone, a tablet computer, or a wearable device such as a smartwatch owned by each of the multiple people X1.

[0065] (2-5) Human Presence Sensor The human presence sensor 6 detects the presence or absence of a person X1 in the predetermined area E1, or the number of people, and the positions of the people, and transmits the detection result as a detection signal to the communication unit 47 of the control device 4. That is, the human presence sensor 6 detects whether or not multiple people are present in the predetermined area E1, and transmits the detection result as a detection signal to the communication unit 47 of the control device 4. The human presence sensor 6 is, for example, a heat ray sensor (infrared sensor), an ultrasonic sensor, a microwave sensor, a photoelectric sensor, or the like.

[0066] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the motion sensor 6 is installed on a wall surface of the room R1, as shown in Fig. 2. The operation terminal 5 may also be equipped with the motion sensor 6. The motion sensor 6 may also be installed on the ceiling R11 of the room R1, or the blower unit U1 may also be equipped with the motion sensor 6. The motion sensor 6 may also be a pressure sensor, and may also be installed on the floor R12 of the room R1.

[0067] (2-6) Surface Temperature Sensor The surface temperature sensor 7 measures the surface temperature of each of the multiple people X1 present in the predetermined area E1 and transmits the measurement result as a surface temperature signal to the communication unit 47 of the control device 4. The surface temperature sensor 7 is, for example, a thermal imaging camera or a heat ray sensor.

[0068] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the surface temperature sensor 7 is installed on a wall surface of the room R1, as shown in Fig. 2. The operation terminal 5 may also be equipped with the surface temperature sensor 7. Alternatively, the surface temperature sensor 7 may be installed on the ceiling R11 of the room R1, or the air blower unit U1 may be equipped with the surface temperature sensor 7.

[0069] (2-7) Area Temperature Sensor The area temperature sensor 8 measures the temperature of the predetermined area E1 and transmits the measurement result as an area temperature signal to the communication unit 47 of the control device 4. The area temperature sensor 8 is a sensor that measures the temperature of the predetermined area E1 using, for example, a thermistor, a thermocouple, a thermopile, or the like. Note that, in this disclosure, the "temperature of the predetermined area E1" refers to the temperature of the air present in the predetermined area E1.

[0070] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the area temperature sensor 8 is installed on a wall surface of the room R1, as shown in Fig. 2. The operation terminal 5 may also be equipped with the area temperature sensor 8. Alternatively, the area temperature sensor 8 may be installed on the ceiling R11 of the room R1, or the air blower unit U1 may be equipped with the area temperature sensor 8.

[0071] (3) Operation of Changing Airflow Direction Hereinafter, an operation of the control unit 41 of the control device 4 to change the direction of the airflow (airflow direction) generated below the nozzle unit 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG.

[0072] In the air blowing system VS1, the control unit 41 controls the carrier air blower 3, the first nozzle air blower 21, and the second nozzle air blower 22 to adjust the direction of the air current generated below the nozzle unit 1. In this embodiment, the control unit 41 of the control device 4 operates the first nozzle air blower 21 and the second nozzle air blower 22, and then operates, stops, and adjusts the air blowing rate of the carrier air blower 3 to vary the direction of the air current (air blowing direction) generated below the nozzle unit 1.

[0073] (3-1) Directly Downward Airflow Figure 7 shows a directly downward airflow F31, which is an airflow generated below the nozzle unit 1 when the first nozzle blower 21 and the second nozzle blower 22 are in operation and the conveying blower 3 is stopped.

[0074] In this case, a downward air current F1 is blown downward from the nozzle unit 1. On the other hand, a transport air current F21 is not blown out from the air outlet 3c of the transport air blowing device 3. Therefore, the downward air current F1 blown downward from the nozzle unit 1 proceeds in a straight downward direction (vertically downward), and below the nozzle unit 1, a straight downward air current F31 proceeding in a straight downward direction is generated.

[0075] (3-2) Oblique Airflow Figure 8 shows an oblique airflow F32, which is an airflow generated below the nozzle unit 1 when the first nozzle blower 21 and the second nozzle blower 22 are in operation and the conveying blower 3 is also in operation.

[0076] In this case, a downward airflow F1 is blown downward from the nozzle unit 1. Furthermore, above the nozzle unit 1, a carrier airflow F21 is blown out to the left from the air outlet 3c of the carrier air blower device 3. The carrier airflow F21, which flows from right to left above the nozzle unit 1, is attracted downward by the downward airflow F1 blown out from the nozzle unit 1 and travels diagonally downward to the left, passing between two nozzles 10 adjacent in the front-to-rear direction. As a result, the downward airflow F1 is attracted by the carrier airflow F21 moving diagonally downward to the left below the nozzle unit 1, and the downward airflow F1 also travels diagonally downward to the left. Therefore, an oblique airflow F32 moving diagonally downward to the left is generated below the nozzle unit 1.

[0077] The greater the airflow rate of the transport air blower 3 (the greater the airflow rate of the transport airflow F21), the closer the direction of the oblique airflow F32 becomes to the horizontal. Furthermore, the smaller the airflow rate of the transport air blower 3 (the smaller the airflow rate of the transport airflow F21), the closer the direction of the oblique airflow F32 becomes to the vertically downward direction. In other words, the control unit 41 can control the direction of the oblique airflow F32 by adjusting the airflow rate of the transport air blower 3.

[0078] (3-3) Swing Airflow The control unit 41 can periodically switch between the downward airflow F31 (see FIG. 7) and the oblique airflow F32 (see FIG. 8) by periodically switching between operation and stop of the transport air blower 3. As a result, the air blowing system VS1 can generate a swing airflow in which the downward airflow F31 and the oblique airflow F32 are alternately generated below the nozzle unit 1.

[0079] Furthermore, the control unit 41 can periodically change the direction of travel of the oblique airflow F32 (see FIG. 8 ) by periodically increasing or decreasing the airflow volume of the transporting air blowing device 3. The control unit 41 alternately repeats an increase period in which the airflow volume of the transporting air blowing device 3 is increased and a decrease period in which the airflow volume of the transporting air blowing device 3 is decreased. As a result, the air blowing system VS1 can generate a swing airflow below the nozzle unit 1 in which the direction of travel of the oblique airflow F32 continuously changes.

[0080] In addition, the control unit 41 can realize a swing airflow that continuously changes between a downward airflow F31 and an oblique airflow F32 by periodically increasing or decreasing the airflow volume of the conveying air blowing device 3 between zero and a target value.

[0081] As described above, in the air blowing system VS1, the control unit 41 controls the transport air blowing device 3 to generate the downward airflow F31 and the oblique airflow F32. Furthermore, the control unit 41 switches the operation and stop of the transport air blowing device 3 or periodically changes the airflow volume of the transport air blowing device 3 to generate a swing airflow. In other words, the air blowing system VS1 can change the air blowing direction without providing a damper mechanism in the nozzle. In other words, the air blowing system VS1 can change the air blowing direction while simplifying the structure of the nozzle 10.

[0082] (4) Operation of Adjusting Airflow Volume Next, the operation of the airflow system VS1 to adjust the airflow volumes of the first nozzle airflow device 21 and the second nozzle airflow device 22 so that the sensible temperature felt by a person X1 in the predetermined area E1 becomes a set value will be described with reference to Fig. 9. As shown in Fig. 9, the operation of the airflow system VS1 described above includes a situation acquisition step ST1, a demand acquisition step ST2, a temperature acquisition step ST3, an estimation step ST4, a calculation step ST5, a control step ST6, a continuation determination step ST7, and a time determination step ST8. In the following description, it is assumed that the airflow system VS1 has already generated any of the downward airflow, oblique airflow, or swing airflow described in "(3) Operation of Changing Airflow Direction" above.

[0083] First, in a situation acquisition step ST1, the situation acquisition unit 442 acquires the relative humidity of the predetermined area E1, and the radiant temperature, metabolic rate, and amount of clothing of a person X1 present in the predetermined area E1. In the situation acquisition step ST1 of this embodiment, the relative humidity of the predetermined area E1, and the radiant temperature, metabolic rate, and amount of clothing of each of the multiple people X1 present in the predetermined area E1 are acquired. In a need acquisition step ST2, the need acquisition unit 441 acquires, as a set value, a desired value, which is the value of the sensible temperature desired by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1. In the need acquisition step ST2 of this embodiment, if multiple people X1 are present in the predetermined area E1, the need acquisition unit 441 acquires, as a set value, an average value of the desired values ​​desired by each of the multiple people. Thereafter, in a temperature acquisition step ST3, the temperature acquisition unit 443 acquires, as an acquired temperature, at least one of the temperature of the predetermined area E1, the temperature of the air sent into the housing 10a from each of the plurality of nozzles 10, and the temperature of the air blown out into the predetermined area E1 from the air outlet 10b of each of the plurality of nozzles 10. In the temperature acquisition step ST3 of this embodiment, the temperature acquisition unit 443 acquires the temperature of the predetermined area E1 as the acquired temperature.

[0084] Then, in estimation step ST4, the estimation unit 42 estimates the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 based on the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22. More specifically, in estimation step ST4, the estimation unit 42 estimates the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 based on the relative humidity of the predetermined area E1 acquired in situation acquisition step ST1, the radiant temperature, metabolic rate, and amount of clothing of the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1, the acquired temperature acquired in temperature acquisition step ST3, and the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22.

[0085] In calculation step ST5, the calculation unit 43 calculates an adjustment amount of the airflow rate for each of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22, based on the difference between the sensible temperature estimated in estimation step ST4 and a preset set value, so that the sensible temperature felt by person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 becomes the set value. In calculation step ST5 of the present embodiment, the calculation unit 43 calculates an adjustment amount of the airflow rate for each of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22, based on the difference between the sensible temperature estimated in estimation step ST4 and the desired value acquired in desire acquisition step ST2, so that the sensible temperature felt by person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 becomes the desired value.

[0086] In control step ST6, the control unit 41 adjusts (controls) the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22 based on the adjustment amount calculated in calculation step ST5. In short, in control step ST6, the control unit 41 adjusts the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22 so that the sensible temperature estimated in estimation step ST4 becomes the desired value (set value).

[0087] Thereafter, the control unit 41 performs a continuation determination step ST7 in which the control unit 41 determines whether or not to continue adjusting the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower 21 and the second nozzle blower 22 so that the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 becomes the set value. If the control unit 41 determines not to continue adjusting the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower 21 and the second nozzle blower 22 (ST7: No), the air blowing system VS1 ends the operation of adjusting the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower 21 and the second nozzle blower 22.

[0088] On the other hand, if the control unit 41 determines that the adjustment of the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower 21 and the second nozzle blower 22 should be continued (ST7: Yes), the control unit 41 performs time determination step ST8 to determine whether a predetermined time has elapsed since performing control step ST6. If the control unit 41 determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed since performing control step ST6 (ST8: No), the control unit 41 performs time determination step ST8 again.

[0089] If the control unit 41 determines that a predetermined time has elapsed since control step ST6 was performed (ST8: Yes), the control unit 41 feedback-controls the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower 21 and the second nozzle blower 22. In other words, the control unit 41 performs the temperature acquisition step ST3, the estimation step ST4, the calculation step ST5, and the control step ST6 again. In other words, if the control unit 41 determines that a predetermined time has elapsed since control step ST6 was performed (ST8: Yes), the air blowing system VS1 sequentially performs the steps from temperature acquisition step ST3 again. In other words, if the control unit 41 determines that a predetermined time has elapsed since control step ST6 was performed (ST8: Yes), the temperature acquisition unit 443 acquires the temperature again (ST3).

[0090] The flowchart in FIG. 9 is merely an example of the operation of the ventilation system VS1, and the order of the processes may be changed as appropriate, or any of the processes may be omitted as appropriate.

[0091] (5) Advantages In the air blowing system VS1 according to the embodiment, the control device 4 includes a control unit 41 that adjusts the airflow rate of the air blowing device 2 so that the sensible temperature felt by a person X1 (see FIG. 2 ) in the predetermined area E1 becomes a set value. As a result, in the air blowing system VS1 according to the embodiment, the control unit 41 adjusts the airflow rate of the air blowing device 2 so that the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 in the predetermined area E1 from which air is blown becomes a set value, thereby controlling the sensible temperature felt by the person X1. In other words, the air blowing system VS1 has the advantage of being able to create a space in which the person X1 in the predetermined area E1 from which air is blown feels more comfortable.

[0092] Furthermore, in the air blowing system VS1 according to the embodiment, the control device 4 further includes an estimation unit 42 that estimates the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 based on the air blowing rates of the first nozzle air blowing device 21 and the second nozzle air blowing device 22, and the control unit 41 adjusts the air blowing rates of the first nozzle air blowing device 21 and the second nozzle air blowing device 22 so that the sensible temperature estimated by the estimation unit 42 becomes a set value. This allows the control unit 41 to adjust the air blowing rate of the air blowing device 2 so that the sensible temperature becomes the set value without needing to receive input from outside of the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1. In other words, the air blowing system VS1 has the advantage of being able to create a space in which the person X1 feels more comfortable without needing to receive input from outside of the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 from which air is blown.

[0093] Furthermore, in the air blowing system VS1 according to the embodiment, the control device 4 further includes a request acquisition unit 441 that acquires, as a set value, a desired value, which is the value of the sensible temperature desired by person X1 present in the predetermined area E1, and the control unit 41 adjusts the airflow rates of the first nozzle air blowing device 21 and the second nozzle air blowing device 22 so that the sensible temperature estimated by the estimating unit 42 becomes the desired value. This provides an advantage that the air blowing system VS1 according to the embodiment can create a space with the sensible temperature desired by person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 from which air is blown out.

[0094] Furthermore, in the air blowing system VS1 according to the embodiment, when multiple people X1 are present in the predetermined area E1, the requirement acquisition unit 441 acquires the average of the requirement values ​​of each of the multiple people as the set value. This has the advantage that the air blowing system VS1 according to the embodiment can create a space in which each of the multiple people X1 is likely to feel comfortable.

[0095] Furthermore, in the air supply system VS1 according to the embodiment, the control device 4 further includes a notification unit 46 that notifies recommendation information recommending movement to an area different from the predetermined area E1 when the difference between the sensible temperature estimated by the estimation unit 42 and the desired value acquired by the desire acquisition unit 441 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. This has the advantage of being able to suggest that person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 move to an area different from the predetermined area E1 so that person X1 feels comfortable.

[0096] In the air blowing system VS1 according to the embodiment, the control device 4 further includes a situation acquisition unit 442 and a temperature acquisition unit 443. The situation acquisition unit 442 acquires the relative humidity of the predetermined area E1, and the radiant temperature, metabolic rate, and amount of clothing of a person X1 present in the predetermined area E1. The temperature acquisition unit 443 acquires at least one of the temperature of the predetermined area E1, the temperature of air sent into the housing 10a of each of the multiple nozzles 10, and the temperature of air blown out into the predetermined area E1 from the air outlet 10b of each of the multiple nozzles 10 as acquired temperatures. The estimation unit 42 estimates the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 based on the relative humidity of the predetermined area E1 acquired by the situation acquisition unit 442, the radiant temperature, metabolic rate, and amount of clothing of the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1, the acquired temperatures acquired by the temperature acquisition unit 443, and the airflow rates of the first nozzle air blowing device 21 and the second nozzle air blowing device 22. This allows the estimation unit 42 to estimate the sensible temperature with higher accuracy, which has the advantage that the air blowing system VS1 can create with higher accuracy a space in which the person X1 in the predetermined area E1 feels comfortable.

[0097] Furthermore, in the air supply system VS1 according to the embodiment, the situation acquisition unit 442 acquires the radiation temperature of each of the plurality of people X1 present in the predetermined area E1 based on the results of measurement of the surface temperature of each of the plurality of people X1 by the surface temperature sensor 7. This has the advantage that the air supply system VS1 according to the embodiment can create a space in which the people X1 feel comfortable, depending on the surface temperature of the people X1 present in the predetermined area E1 from which air is blown out.

[0098] Furthermore, in the air blowing system VS1 according to the embodiment, the temperature acquisition unit 443 acquires the acquired temperature again a predetermined time after the control unit 41 adjusts the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower 21 and the second nozzle blower 22. The estimation unit 42 re-estimates the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 based on the relative humidity of the predetermined area E1 acquired by the situation acquisition unit 442, the radiant temperature, metabolic rate, and amount of clothing of the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1, the acquired temperature acquired again by the temperature acquisition unit 443, and the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower 21 and the second nozzle blower 22. The control unit 41 then adjusts the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower 21 and the second nozzle blower 22 again so that the sensible temperature estimated by the estimation unit 42 becomes the desired value. This allows the control unit 41 to readjust the airflow rate of the air blower 2 so that the sensible temperature reaches the set value even when a change in circumstances occurs that changes the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 in the predetermined area E1 (for example, when the person X1 enters or leaves the area, or when the operating status of the air conditioning equipment changes). In other words, the air blowing system VS1 has the advantage that it can recreate a space in which the person X1 in the predetermined area E1 feels more comfortable, even when a change in circumstances occurs that changes the sensible temperature felt by the person X1 in the predetermined area E1.

[0099] The air blowing system VS1 according to the embodiment also includes a transport air blowing device 3 that generates a transport airflow F21 that changes the direction (air blowing direction) in which air is blown out from the air outlet 10b of each of the plurality of nozzles 10. This provides the air blowing system VS1 according to the embodiment with the advantage that the air blowing direction can be changed.

[0100] In the air blowing system VS1 according to the embodiment, the transport air blowing device 3 is disposed above the nozzle unit 1, draws in ambient air, and generates a transport airflow F21 flowing from the right end (first end) 1a toward the left end (second end) 1b of the nozzle unit 1. This provides the advantage that the air blowing system VS1 according to the embodiment can vary the air blowing direction while simplifying the structure of the nozzle 10.

[0101] (6) Modifications Modifications of the above-described embodiment are listed below. The following modifications may be implemented in appropriate combination.

[0102] In the above-described embodiment, the status acquisition unit 442 acquires the relative humidity stored in the memory unit 45. However, the air supply system VS1 may include a humidity sensor that measures the relative humidity in the predetermined area E1, and the status acquisition unit 442 may acquire the relative humidity based on the measurement results of the humidity sensor. Alternatively, the status acquisition unit 442 may acquire, via the communication unit 47, the relative humidity in the predetermined area E1 that is input by a person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 via the operation unit 51 of the operation terminal 5.

[0103] In the above-described embodiment, the status acquisition unit 442 acquires the metabolic rate and the amount of clothing stored in the storage unit 45. However, the status acquisition unit 442 may acquire, via the communication unit 47, the metabolic rate and the amount of clothing input by the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 via the operation unit 51 of the operation terminal 5.

[0104] In the above-described embodiment, the control unit 41 controls the rotation speed of the motor that rotates the fan 21b of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the rotation speed of the motor that rotates the fan 22b of the second nozzle blower device 22 so that the sensible temperature estimated by the estimator 42 becomes the set value. However, the control unit 41 may also control the frequency of the power supplied to the motor that rotates the fan 21b of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the motor that rotates the fan 22b of the second nozzle blower device 22 so that the sensible temperature estimated by the estimator 42 becomes the set value. Furthermore, the control unit 41 may also control the frequency of the signal that controls the rotation speed of the fan 21b of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the frequency of the signal that controls the rotation speed of the fan 22b of the second nozzle blower device 22 so that the sensible temperature estimated by the estimator 42 becomes the set value.

[0105] In the above-described embodiment, when estimating the sensible temperature, the estimator 42 uses the rotation speed of the motor that rotates the fan 21b of the first nozzle blower device 21 as the airflow rate of the first nozzle blower device 21, and uses the rotation speed of the motor that rotates the fan 22b of the second nozzle blower device 22 as the airflow rate of the second nozzle blower device 22. However, when estimating the sensible temperature, the estimator 42 may use the frequency of the power supplied to the motor that rotates the fan 21b as the airflow rate of the first nozzle blower device 21, and use the frequency of the power supplied to the motor that rotates the fan 22b as the airflow rate of the second nozzle blower device 22. Furthermore, when estimating the sensible temperature, the estimator 42 may use the frequency of the signal that controls the rotation speed of the fan 21b as the airflow rate of the first nozzle blower device 21, and use the frequency of the signal that controls the rotation speed of the fan 22b as the airflow rate of the second nozzle blower device 22.

[0106] In the above-described embodiment, the request acquisition unit 441 does not acquire the request value again as the set value after a predetermined time has elapsed since the control unit 41 adjusted the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22, but may acquire the request value again as the set value. In short, in the above-described embodiment, when the control unit 41 feedback-controls the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22, the request acquisition unit 441 does not acquire the request value again as the set value, but may acquire the request value again as the set value.

[0107] Similarly, in the above-described embodiment, the situation acquisition unit 442 does not again acquire the relative humidity of the predetermined area E1, the radiant temperature, metabolic rate, and amount of clothing of the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the control unit 41 adjusted the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22, but may do so again. In short, in the above-described embodiment, when the control unit 41 feedback-controls the airflow rates of the first nozzle blower device 21 and the second nozzle blower device 22, the situation acquisition unit 442 does not again acquire the relative humidity of the predetermined area E1, and the radiant temperature, metabolic rate, and amount of clothing of the person X1 present in the predetermined area E1, but may do so again.

[0108] That is, in the above-described embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, when the control unit 41 determines that a predetermined time has elapsed since the control step ST6 was performed by the air blowing system VS1 in adjusting the air blowing volume of the first nozzle air blowing device 21 and the second nozzle air blowing device 22 (ST8: Yes), the air blowing system VS1 performs the steps again in sequence from the temperature acquisition step ST3, but the air blowing system VS1 may also perform the steps again in sequence from the situation acquisition step ST1, or may also perform the steps again in sequence from the request acquisition step ST2.

[0109] (Summary) The air blowing system (VS1) of the first aspect includes a nozzle unit (1), an air blowing device (2), and a control device (4). The nozzle unit (1) has at least two nozzles (10). The at least two nozzles (10) each have a hollow, elongated housing (10a) extending along a first direction, and are arranged side by side along a second direction intersecting the first direction. The air blowing device (2) sends air into the housing (10a) for each of the at least two nozzles (10). The control device (4) controls the air blowing device (2). An air outlet (10b) extending along the first direction is formed on the underside of the housing (10a) for each of the at least two nozzles (10). The air outlet (10b) blows the air sent into the housing (10a) into a predetermined area (E1) outside the housing (10a). The control device (4) has a control unit (41) that adjusts the amount of air blown by the air blower (2) so that the sensible temperature felt by a person (X1) present in a predetermined area (E1) becomes a set value.

[0110] This embodiment has the advantage of creating a space in which people (X1) present in the predetermined area (E1) from which air is blown out can feel more comfortable.

[0111] In the air blowing system (VS1) of the second aspect, the control device (4) in the first aspect further includes an estimation unit (42) that estimates the sensible temperature based on the air blowing volume. The control unit (41) adjusts the air blowing volume of the air blowing device (2) so that the sensible temperature estimated by the estimation unit (42) becomes a set value.

[0112] According to this aspect, there is no need to input from outside the sensible temperature felt by a person (X1) present in the specified area (E1) from which air is blown out, and this has the advantage of creating a space in which the person (X1) feels more comfortable.

[0113] In the air supply system (VS1) of the third aspect, in the second aspect, the control device (4) further includes a request acquisition unit (441) that acquires, as a set value, a desired value, which is a value of the sensible temperature desired by the person (X1). The control unit (41) adjusts the air supply volume so that the sensible temperature estimated by the estimation unit (42) becomes the desired value.

[0114] This embodiment has the advantage that it is possible to create a space with a sensible temperature desired by a person (X1) present in the predetermined area (E1) from which air is blown out.

[0115] In the fourth aspect of the ventilation system (VS1), in the third aspect, when multiple people (X1) are present in a specified area (E1), the request acquisition unit (441) acquires the average value of the request values ​​desired by each of the multiple people (X1) as the setting value.

[0116] This aspect has the advantage of being able to create a space in which each of the people (X1) present in the predetermined area (E1) from which air is blown out is likely to feel comfortable.

[0117] In the fifth aspect of the ventilation system (VS1), in the third or fourth aspect, the control device (4) further has a notification unit (46) that notifies recommendation information recommending movement to an area different from the specified area (E1) when the difference between the sensible temperature estimated by the estimation unit (42) and the desired value is equal to or greater than a specified value.

[0118] This aspect has the advantage that it is possible to suggest that a person (X1) present in a predetermined area (E1) move to an area different from the predetermined area (E1) so that the person (X1) feels comfortable.

[0119] In a sixth aspect of the air supply system (VS1), in any one of the second to fifth aspects, the control device (4) further includes a situation acquisition unit (442) and a temperature acquisition unit (443). The situation acquisition unit (442) acquires the relative humidity of a predetermined area (E1) and the radiant temperature, metabolic rate, and amount of clothing of a person (X1). The temperature acquisition unit (443) acquires at least one of the temperature of the predetermined area (E1), the temperature of air sent into the housing (10a), and the temperature of air blown out of the air outlet (10b) into the predetermined area (E1) as an acquired temperature. The estimation unit (42) estimates the sensible temperature based on the relative humidity, radiant temperature, metabolic rate, amount of clothing, acquired temperature, and air supply volume.

[0120] This embodiment has the advantage of being able to create with higher precision a space in which a person (X1) present in the predetermined area (E1) feels comfortable.

[0121] In the air supply system (VS1) of the seventh aspect, in the sixth aspect, the situation acquisition unit (442) acquires the radiation temperature based on the result of measuring the surface temperature of the person (X1).

[0122] This aspect has the advantage of being able to create a space in which the person (X1) feels comfortable, depending on the surface temperature of the person (X1) present in the specified area (E1) from which air is blown out.

[0123] In the air blowing system (VS1) of the eighth aspect, in the sixth or seventh aspect, the temperature acquisition unit (443) acquires the acquired temperature again after a predetermined time has elapsed since the control unit (41) adjusted the air blowing volume. The estimation unit (42) re-estimates the sensible temperature based on the relative humidity, radiant temperature, metabolic rate, amount of clothing, the acquired temperature acquired again by the temperature acquisition unit (443), and the air blowing volume adjusted by the control unit (41). The control unit (41) re-adjusts the air blowing volume so that the sensible temperature re-estimated by the estimation unit (42) becomes the set value.

[0124] According to this aspect, even if a change in circumstances occurs that changes the perceived temperature felt by a person (X1) in the specified area (E1), it is possible to recreate a space in which the person (X1) in the specified area (E1) from which air is blown out feels more comfortable.

[0125] The air blowing system (VS1) of the ninth aspect is any one of the first to eighth aspects, and further includes a conveying air blowing device (3) that generates a conveying airflow (F21) that changes the direction in which the air outlet (10b) blows out air.

[0126] This aspect has the advantage that the airflow direction can be changed.

[0127] In the tenth aspect of the air blowing system (VS1), in the ninth aspect, the conveying air blowing device (3) is arranged above the nozzle unit (1) and generates a conveying air flow (F21) from the first end (1a) to the second end (1b) in the first direction of the nozzle unit (1).

[0128] This embodiment has the advantage that the structure of the nozzle (10) can be simplified while the air blowing direction can be varied.

[0129] VS1 Air blowing system 1 Nozzle unit 1a First end 1b Second end 10 Nozzle 10a Housing 10b Air outlet 21 (2) First nozzle air blower (air blower) 22 (2) Second nozzle air blower (air blower) 3 Conveying air blower 4 Control device 41 Control unit 42 Estimation unit 441 Request acquisition unit 442 Status acquisition unit 443 Temperature acquisition unit 46 Notification unit E1 Predetermined area F21 Conveying air flow X1 Person

Claims

1. An air blowing system comprising: nozzle units each having a housing formed in a hollow, elongated shape extending along a first direction and having at least two nozzles arranged side by side along a second direction intersecting the first direction; an air blower that sends air into the interior of the housing for each of the at least two nozzles; and a control device that controls the air blower, wherein an air outlet extending along the first direction is formed on the underside of the housing for each of the at least two nozzles, the air outlet blows the air that has been sent into the interior of the housing to a specified area outside the housing, and the control device has a control unit that adjusts the air flow rate of the air blower so that the sensible temperature felt by a person in the specified area becomes a set value.

2. The air blowing system of claim 1, wherein the control device further has an estimation unit that estimates the sensible temperature based on the air blowing volume of the air blowing device, and the control unit adjusts the air blowing volume so that the sensible temperature estimated by the estimation unit becomes the set value.

3. The air supply system of claim 2, wherein the control device further has a request acquisition unit that acquires a desired value, which is the value of the sensible temperature desired by the person, as the set value, and the control unit adjusts the air supply volume so that the sensible temperature estimated by the estimation unit becomes the desired value.

4. The air blowing system according to claim 3, wherein, when a plurality of people are present in the specified area, the request acquisition unit acquires as the setting value the average value of the request values ​​requested by each of the plurality of people.

5. The ventilation system of claim 3 or 4, wherein the control device further has a notification unit that notifies recommendation information recommending movement to an area different from the specified area when the difference between the sensible temperature estimated by the estimation unit and the desired value is equal to or greater than a specified value.

6. The control device further has a situation acquisition unit that acquires the relative humidity of the specified area and the radiant temperature, metabolic rate, and amount of clothing of the person, and a temperature acquisition unit that acquires at least one of the temperature of the specified area, the temperature of the air sent into the housing, and the temperature of the air blown out by the air outlet into the specified area as an acquired temperature, and the estimation unit estimates the sensible temperature based on the relative humidity, the radiant temperature, the metabolic rate, the amount of clothing, the acquired temperature, and the air supply volume. A ventilation system as described in any one of claims 2 to 5.

7. The air blowing system according to claim 6, wherein the situation acquisition unit acquires the radiation temperature based on a result of measuring the surface temperature of the person.

8. The air supply system described in claim 6 or 7, wherein the temperature acquisition unit acquires the acquired temperature again after a predetermined time has elapsed since the control unit adjusted the air supply volume, the estimation unit re-estimates the sensible temperature based on the relative humidity, the radiant temperature, the metabolic rate, the amount of clothing, the acquired temperature acquired again by the temperature acquisition unit, and the air supply volume adjusted by the control unit, and the control unit re-adjusts the air supply volume so that the sensible temperature re-estimated by the estimation unit becomes the set value.

9. The ventilation system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a transport air blower that generates a transport air current that changes the direction in which the air outlet blows out air.

10. The air blowing system according to claim 9, wherein the transport air blowing device is disposed above the nozzle unit and generates the transport airflow from a first end toward a second end of the nozzle unit in the first direction.

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