Air conditioning system, control method for air conditioning system, and program

Abstract

The present disclosure provides an air conditioning system capable of changing a set temperature of an air conditioning device so as to reduce an amount of change in the set temperature, in consideration of whether or not the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device should be reduced.　An air conditioning system according to the present disclosure is for air-conditioning a space to be air-conditioned by an air conditioning device, the air conditioning system comprising a determining unit that determines whether or not to reduce an amount of change in a set temperature of the air conditioning device after a user has changed the set temperature of the air conditioning device from a first set temperature to a second set temperature on an energy-intensive side of the first set temperature, and a changing unit that changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the second set temperature to a third set temperature if the determining unit has determined that the amount of change should be reduced, where the third set temperature is a set temperature on the energy-intensive side of the first set temperature and on the energy-saving side of the second set temperature.

Description

Air conditioning system, air conditioning system control method, and program

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioning system, a control method for an air conditioning system, and a program.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for gradually returning the set temperature of an air conditioner from the set temperature set by the user to a target temperature when the user changes the set temperature of the air conditioner.

[0003] Patent No. 5943813

[0004] The present disclosure provides an air conditioning system, a control method for an air conditioning system, and a program that can change the set temperature of an air conditioning device so that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device is small, taking into consideration whether the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device should be small.

[0005] The air conditioning system of the present disclosure is an air conditioning system that conditions a conditioned space using an air conditioning device, and includes: a judgment unit that judges whether or not the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device should be reduced after a user changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from a first set temperature to a second set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature; and a change unit that changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the second set temperature to a third set temperature if the judgment unit judges that the amount of change should be reduced, wherein the third set temperature is a set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature and more energy-saving than the second set temperature.

[0006] Furthermore, the control method for an air conditioning system in the present disclosure is a control method for an air conditioning system that conditions a conditioned space using an air conditioning device, and includes a first step of determining whether or not to reduce the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device after a user changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from a first set temperature to a second set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature, and a second step of changing the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the second set temperature to a third set temperature if the first step determines that the amount of change should be reduced, wherein the third set temperature is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature and more energy-saving than the second set temperature.

[0007] The program disclosed herein also causes a processor of an air conditioning system that conditions a conditioned space using an air conditioning unit to function as a determination unit that determines whether or not to reduce the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning unit after a user changes the set temperature of the air conditioning unit from a first set temperature to a second set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature, and a change unit that changes the set temperature of the air conditioning unit from the second set temperature to a third set temperature if the determination unit determines that the amount of change should be reduced, where the third set temperature is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature and more energy-saving than the second set temperature. This specification includes the entire contents of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-055579, filed on March 29, 2024.

[0008] In the air conditioning system, air conditioning system control method, and program disclosed herein, when the set temperature of an air conditioner is changed to the increased energy side, the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioner is not uniformly reduced, but rather, if it is determined that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioner should be reduced, the amount of change is reduced. Thus, after considering whether the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioner should be reduced, the set temperature of the air conditioner can be changed so that the amount of change is reduced.

[0009] 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioning system in embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a management server in embodiment 1. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the management server in embodiment 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the time change in the set temperature of an air conditioner in embodiment 1. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the time change in the set temperature of an air conditioner in embodiment 1. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the time change in the set temperature of an air conditioner in embodiment 1. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the time change in the set temperature of an air conditioner in embodiment 1. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the time change in the set temperature of an air conditioner in embodiment 1. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioning system in embodiment 2. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of a management server in embodiment 2. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the first management data in embodiment 2. 12 is a diagram showing an example of second management data in embodiment 2. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining updating of the number of achievements in embodiment 2. FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining updating of the number of changes in embodiment 2. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the management server in embodiment 2. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the operation of the determination unit in the determination process in embodiment 2. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of collected data in embodiment 2. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the determination unit in the determination process in embodiment 2. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing the time change in the set temperature of an air conditioning device in embodiment 3. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing the time change in the set temperature of an air conditioning device in embodiment 4. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioning system in another embodiment.

[0010] (Knowledge, etc., that Forms the Basis of the Present Disclosure) At the time the inventors came up with the present disclosure, there was a technology, such as that described in Patent Document 1, that changes the set temperature of an air conditioner so as to reduce the amount of change in the set temperature when a user changes the set temperature of the air conditioner. However, the inventors discovered a problem with the technology described in Patent Document 1: when a user changes the set temperature of the air conditioner, the set temperature of the air conditioner is always changed so as to reduce the amount of change in the set temperature, without considering whether the amount of change in the set temperature should be reduced. In order to solve this problem, the inventors came up with the subject matter of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure provides an air conditioning system, an air conditioning system control method, and a program that can change the set temperature of an air conditioner so as to reduce the amount of change, after considering whether the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioner should be reduced.

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, more detailed description than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed description of already well-known matters or redundant description of substantially the same configuration may be omitted. Note that the accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0012] (Embodiment 1) [1-1. Configuration] [1-1-1. Configuration of Air Conditioning System] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioning system 1000. The air conditioning system 1000 is a system that conditions a conditioned space S using an air conditioner 1. Air conditioning of the conditioned space S can include cooling, heating, dehumidification, ventilation, etc., and this embodiment describes a case where the conditioned space S is cooled and heated by the air conditioner 1. The conditioned space S is a space owned by a facility H, and is a space that is air-conditioned by the air conditioner 1. Examples of facility H include homes, offices, stores, medical facilities, and public facilities.

[0013] The air conditioning system 1000 includes an air conditioner 1. In FIG. 1 , the air conditioning system 1000 includes four or more air conditioners 1. Note that the number of air conditioners 1 included in the air conditioning system 1000 is not limited to four or more, and may be less than four. The air conditioner 1 includes an indoor unit 11 and an outdoor unit 12, and performs air conditioning operation using the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 12 to air-condition the conditioned space S in which the indoor unit 11 is installed. The air conditioner 1 is connected to a network NW and communicates with devices connected to the network NW. The network NW is a communication network composed of a public line network, a dedicated line, the Internet, other communication networks, etc.

[0014] The air conditioning system 1000 includes a terminal device 2. The terminal device 2 is a terminal used by an administrator P who manages the facility H. Note that the administrator P is not limited to a person, but may also be an entity with management authority over the facility H (for example, a company that operates the facility H). The terminal device 2 shown in FIG. 1 is a laptop computer, but may also be a tablet computer, desktop computer, or smartphone. The terminal device 2 is connected to a network NW. The terminal device 2 displays information related to the air conditioning apparatus 1 for each facility H.

[0015] The air conditioning system 1000 includes a management server 3. The management server 3 is a server device that manages the air conditioning devices 1. The management server 3 is connected to a network NW and performs information processing with the air conditioning devices 1 and terminal devices 2 as clients. The management server 3 may be a server device owned by the administrator P, or may be a server device not owned by the administrator P. Although each of the figures represents each management server 3 as a single block, this does not necessarily mean that the management server 3 is composed of a single device. For example, the management server 3 may be composed of multiple server devices with different processing contents, or may be composed of the same server device.

[0016] [1-1-2. Configuration of Air Conditioner] The configuration of the air conditioner 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 1. The air conditioner 1 comprises an indoor unit 11, an outdoor unit 12, and a remote control 13. Note that the air conditioner 1 may be equipped with a plurality of indoor units 11 and outdoor units 12. The remote control 13 is an example of a "setting unit."

[0017] The indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 12 are connected by refrigerant piping and control wiring. As a result, in the air conditioner 1, the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 12 form a refrigerant cycle.

[0018] The indoor unit 11 includes a first indoor unit communication unit 111 and a second indoor unit communication unit 112. The first indoor unit communication unit 111 includes hardware such as a communication circuit that complies with a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with the management server 3 connected to the network NW under the control of the processor of the indoor unit 11. The second indoor unit communication unit 112 includes hardware such as a communication circuit that complies with a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with the outdoor unit 12 and the remote control 13 under the control of the processor of the indoor unit 11.

[0019] The remote control 13 is installed on a wall or the like of the air-conditioned space S. The remote control 13 has a plurality of operation buttons that allow the user of the air conditioner 1 to start or stop operation, change the set temperature of the air conditioner 1, operate menus, operate cursor keys, etc. The remote control 13 also has a display panel that displays, for example, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 and the operating status of the indoor unit 11.

[0020] When the remote control 13 receives a change operation from the user to change the set temperature of the air conditioning apparatus 1, it transmits operation data RD to the management server 3 via the indoor unit 11. More specifically, the remote control 13 transmits the operation data RD to the indoor unit 11, and the indoor unit 11 transmits the operation data RD received from the remote control 13 to the management server 3.

[0021] The operation data RD is data indicating that an operation to change the set temperature has been accepted. The operation data RD records the following information: the date and time of change, the air conditioning type, the first set temperature, the changed set temperature, whether the thermostat is off, and the target temperature. The date and time of change is the date and time when the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 was changed. The air conditioning type is the type of air conditioning being performed by the air conditioning device 1, and in this embodiment indicates cooling or heating. The first set temperature is the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 before the change. The changed set temperature is the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 after the change. The target temperature is the set temperature targeted by the air conditioning device 1, and is a temperature that is predetermined by a person such as the manager P. The target temperature is pre-registered in the remote control 13. The target temperature registered in the remote control 13 can be changed by the manager P.

[0022] When the remote control 13 receives a user's operation to change the set temperature, it sets the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to the registered target temperature after a second predetermined period (e.g., one hour) longer than a first predetermined period (e.g., seven minutes) has elapsed since the change date and time recorded in the operation data RD sent to the management server 3. Hereinafter, the function of setting the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to the target temperature after a change to the energy-increasing set temperature is referred to as the automatic set temperature return function. Note that if the set temperature is changed to a temperature that is more energy-saving than the target temperature, the remote control 13 does not perform the automatic set temperature return function. When the automatic set temperature return function is executed, the remote control 13 notifies the management server 3 via the indoor unit 11 that the automatic set temperature return function has been executed.

[0023] The remote control 13 receives setting data SD from the management server 3 via the indoor unit 11. The setting data SD is data that instructs a change to the set temperature of the air conditioner 1, and records the new set temperature. When the remote control 13 receives the setting data SD, it sets the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to the set temperature recorded in the received setting data SD.

[0024] 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the management server 3. The management server 3 includes a server control device 30 and a server communication device 31.

[0025] The server communication device 31 comprises hardware such as a communication circuit that complies with a predetermined communication standard, and communicates with the air conditioning device 1 and the terminal device 2 under the control of the server control device 30 .

[0026] The server control device 30 includes a server processor 300 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a server memory 310, and an interface circuit to which other devices and sensors are connected. The server processor 300 is an example of a "processor." The server memory 310 is an example of a "storage unit."

[0027] The server memory 310 is a memory that stores programs and data. The server memory 310 stores a control program 311 and data to be processed by the server processor 300. The server memory 310 has a non-volatile storage area. The server memory 310 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute a work area for the server processor 300. The server memory 310 is configured, for example, by a read-only memory (ROM) or a random access memory (RAM). The control program 311 is an example of a "program."

[0028] The server processor 300 reads and executes a control program 311 stored in the server memory 310 , thereby functioning as a communication control unit 301 , a determination unit 302 , and a change unit 303 .

[0029] The communication control unit 301 communicates with the air conditioning apparatus 1 and the terminal device 2 via the server communication device 31. The communication control unit 301 in this embodiment receives operation data RD from the air conditioning apparatus 1, and also transmits setting data SD to the air conditioning apparatus 1.

[0030] When the communication control unit 301 receives the operation data RD, the determination unit 302 determines whether the user has changed the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 from a first set temperature to a second set temperature. The second set temperature is on the increased energy side compared to the first set temperature. A set temperature that is more energy-intensive than the first set temperature is a set temperature that is higher than the first set temperature when the air conditioning performed by the air conditioner 1 is heating, and is a set temperature that is lower than the first set temperature when the air conditioning performed by the air conditioner 1 is cooling.

[0031] The determination unit 302 references the operation data RD received by the communication control unit 301 and determines whether the changed set temperature recorded in the referenced operation data RD corresponds to the second set temperature. If the operation data RD records heating and a changed set temperature higher than the first set temperature, the determination unit 302 determines that the changed set temperature recorded in the operation data RD corresponds to the second set temperature. On the other hand, if the operation data RD records heating and a changed set temperature lower than the first set temperature, the determination unit 302 determines that the changed set temperature recorded in the operation data RD does not correspond to the second set temperature. Furthermore, if the operation data RD records cooling and a changed set temperature lower than the first set temperature, the determination unit 302 determines that the changed set temperature recorded in the operation data RD corresponds to the second set temperature. On the other hand, if air conditioning is recorded in the operation data RD and a changed set temperature higher than the first set temperature is recorded in the operation data RD, the judgment unit 302 determines that the changed set temperature recorded in the operation data RD does not correspond to the second set temperature.

[0032] If the determination unit 302 determines that the changed set temperature recorded in the referenced operation data RD corresponds to the second set temperature, it determines that the user has changed the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the first set temperature to the second set temperature. On the other hand, if the determination unit 302 determines that the changed set temperature recorded in the referenced operation data RD does not correspond to the second set temperature, it determines that the user has not changed the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the first set temperature to the second set temperature.

[0033] Furthermore, after determining that the user has changed the set temperature of the air conditioning apparatus 1 from the first set temperature to the second set temperature, the determination unit 302 determines whether or not to lower the set temperature of the air conditioning apparatus 1. This determination by the determination unit 302 will be described later.

[0034] When the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 should be reduced, the change unit 303 determines a third set temperature using the following formula (1). The third set temperature is a set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature and more energy-saving than the second set temperature. A set temperature that is more energy-saving than the second set temperature is a set temperature that is lower than the second set temperature when the air conditioning performed by the air conditioner 1 is heating, and is a set temperature that is higher than the second set temperature when the air conditioning performed by the air conditioner 1 is cooling.

[0035] Third set temperature=First set temperature+(Second set temperature−First set temperature)÷2 (1) Formula (1) is an example of the “predetermined rule”.

[0036] The change unit 303 determines the third set temperature based on the operation data RD processed by the determination unit 302. The change unit 303 determines the third set temperature by substituting the first set temperature recorded in the operation data RD and the changed set temperature corresponding to the second set temperature recorded in the operation data RD into equation (1).

[0037] When the change unit 303 determines the third set temperature, it changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 to the determined third set temperature. During this change, the change unit 303 generates setting data SD in which the determined third set temperature is recorded as information, and outputs the generated setting data SD to the communication control unit 301. The communication control unit 301 transmits the setting data SD to the air conditioning device 1.

[0038] 1-2. Operation Next, a description will be given of the operation of each unit of the air conditioning system 1000 according to the first embodiment. FIG.

[0039] The determination unit 302 determines whether the communication control unit 301 has received the operation data RD (step SA1).

[0040] If the determining unit 302 determines that the communication control unit 301 has not received the operation data RD (step SA1: NO), the determining unit 302 performs the determination in step SA1 again.

[0041] On the other hand, if the judgment unit 302 determines that the communication control unit 301 has received the operation data RD (step SA1: YES), it determines whether the user has changed the set temperature of the air conditioning unit 1 from the first set temperature to the second set temperature (step SA2).

[0042] If the determining unit 302 determines that the temperature has not been changed from the first set temperature to the second set temperature (step SA2: NO), the server processor 300 ends this process.

[0043] On the other hand, if the judgment unit 302 determines that the temperature has been changed from the first set temperature to the second set temperature (step SA2: YES), it judges whether a first predetermined period has elapsed since the date and time of change recorded in the operation data RD that triggered the positive judgment of step SA1 (step SA3).

[0044] If the determining unit 302 determines that the first predetermined period has not elapsed since the change date and time (step SA3: NO), it performs the determination in step SA3 again.

[0045] On the other hand, if the determination unit 302 determines that the first predetermined period has elapsed since the change date and time (step SA3: YES), it determines whether or not the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should be reduced (step SA4). Step SA4 is an example of the "first step."

[0046] Step SA4 will now be described in detail. If none of the first to third conditions described below are met, the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should be reduced. On the other hand, if any of the first to third conditions among the first to third conditions is met, the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should not be reduced.

[0047] The first condition is that the difference between the first set temperature and the second set temperature is equal to or less than a predetermined value (e.g., 1°C). Note that this predetermined value is merely an example. The determination unit 302 calculates the difference between the first set temperature and the second set temperature based on the operation data RD that triggered the positive determination in step SA1. If the calculated difference is equal to or less than the predetermined value, the determination unit 302 determines that the first condition is met and makes a negative determination in step SA4.

[0048] The second condition is that the user changes the set temperature of the air conditioning apparatus 1 from the first set temperature to the second set temperature while the thermostat is off. If the operation data RD that triggered the positive determination in step SA1 records information that the thermostat is off, the determination unit 302 determines that the second condition is met and makes a negative determination in step SA4.

[0049] The third condition is that the second set temperature changed by the user is a set temperature that is more energy-saving than the target temperature. If the changed set temperature of the operation data RD that triggered the positive determination in step SA1 is a set temperature that is more energy-saving than the target temperature of the operation data RD, the determination unit 302 determines that the third condition is met and makes a negative determination in step SA4.

[0050] If the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change from the first set temperature should be reduced (step SA4: YES), the change unit 303 changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the second set temperature to the third set temperature (step SA5). Step SA5 is an example of a "second step."

[0051] In step SA5, the change unit 303 generates setting data SD in which the third set temperature is recorded, and outputs the generated setting data SD to the communication control unit 301. The communication control unit 301 transmits the setting data SD to the air conditioning device 1 in response to the operation data RD that triggered the positive determination in step SA1.

[0052] Next, the determination unit 302 determines whether the user has changed the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to the increased energy side (step SA6).

[0053] Step SA6 will be described in detail. If the fourth condition is not met, the determination unit 302 makes a negative determination in step SA6. On the other hand, if the fourth condition is met, the determination unit 302 makes an affirmative determination in step SA6.

[0054] The fourth condition is that, after changing the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to the third set temperature, the user changes the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to a set temperature on the increased-energy side relative to the third set temperature. If the communications control unit 301 receives operation data RD after the change in step SA5, the determination unit 302 determines whether the set temperature on the increased-energy side has been changed based on the received operation data RD. Next, if the determination unit 302 determines that the set temperature on the increased-energy side has been changed, it determines that the fourth condition is met and makes a positive determination in step S6.

[0055] If the determination unit 302 makes an affirmative determination in step SA6 (step SA6: YES), the server processor 300 performs the processes from step SA7 onwards.

[0056] On the other hand, if the determination unit 302 determines a negative result in step SA6 (step SA7: NO), it determines whether the automatic set temperature return function has been performed (step SA9).

[0057] If the determination unit 302 determines that the set temperature return function is not being performed (step SA9: NO), it repeats the determination in step SA9.

[0058] On the other hand, if the determining unit 302 determines that the set temperature return function has been performed (step SA9: YES), the server processor 300 ends this process.

[0059] The change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 over time when a positive determination is made in step SA6 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a chart CH1 showing the change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 over time. In chart CH1 shown in Fig. 4, the vertical axis is set to the set temperature of the air conditioner 1, and the horizontal axis is set to time. Chart CH1 shown in Fig. 4 also shows the change in the set temperature over time when the air conditioner 1 is performing heating.

[0060] 4 illustrates an example in which the target temperature and the first set temperature are both 20° C. If the user sets the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to 24° C. at timing T1, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 will be 24° C. from timing T1 onwards.

[0061] Timing T2 is the timing when the first predetermined period has elapsed. If the determination unit 302 determines at timing T2 that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should be reduced, the change unit 303 changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the second set temperature to the third set temperature at timing T2. In chart CH1 shown in Figure 4, the third set temperature is 22°C.

[0062] Chart CH1 in Figure 4 illustrates an example in which the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 should be reduced after timing T2. Therefore, from timing T2 to timing T3, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 is set to the third set temperature. Timing T3 is the timing at which the second predetermined period elapses. When timing T3 arrives, the server processor 300 ends the processing shown in Figure 3. Furthermore, when timing T3 arrives, the remote control 13 changes the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to the target temperature using the set temperature automatic return function.

[0063] Returning to the explanation of the flowchart in FIG. 3, if it is determined that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning apparatus 1 should not be reduced (step SA4: NO), the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature (step SA7).

[0064] Next, the determination unit 302 determines whether the automatic set temperature return function has been executed (step SA8). If the determination unit 302 determines that the automatic set temperature return function has not been executed (step SA8: NO), the process returns to step SA8 and the server processor 300 performs the determination of step SA8 again. On the other hand, if the determination unit 302 determines that the automatic set temperature return function has been executed (step SA8: YES), the server processor 300 ends this process.

[0065] Steps SA7 and SA8 will be described in detail for each satisfied condition. <Fourth condition is satisfied> If the determination unit 302 determines that the fourth condition is satisfied and makes a negative determination in step SA4, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioner 1. In other words, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 from the set temperature that the user changed to the increased energy side.

[0066] The change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 over time when the fourth condition is met will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a chart CH2 showing the change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 over time. In chart CH2 shown in Fig. 5, the vertical axis is set to the set temperature of the air conditioner 1, and the horizontal axis is set to time. Chart CH2 shown in Fig. 5 also shows the change in the set temperature over time when the air conditioner 1 is performing heating.

[0067] 5 illustrates an example in which the target temperature and the first set temperature are both 20° C. If the user sets the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to 24° C. at timing T1, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 will be 24° C. from timing T4 onwards.

[0068] Timing T5 is the timing when the first predetermined period has elapsed. If the determination unit 302 determines at timing T5 that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should be reduced, the change unit 303 changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the second set temperature to the third set temperature at timing T5. In chart CH2 shown in Figure 5, the third set temperature is 22°C.

[0069] In chart CH2 shown in FIG. 5 , timing T6 is the timing when the fourth condition is met. The example in FIG. 5 illustrates a case where the user changes the set temperature to 24° C. at timing T6. After the fourth condition is met, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioner 1. Therefore, between timing T6 and timing T7, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 is set to 24° C., which was set again by the user. Timing T7 is the timing when the second predetermined period elapses. When timing T7 arrives, the server processor 300 ends the processing shown in FIG. 3 . Furthermore, when timing T7 arrives, the remote control 13 uses the set temperature automatic return function to change the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to the target temperature.

[0070] <First condition is met> If the change unit 303 determines that the first condition is met and the determination unit 302 makes a negative determination in step SA4, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1. In other words, if the difference between the first set temperature and the second set temperature is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1.

[0071] The change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 over time when the first condition is met will be described with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a chart CH3 showing the change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 over time. In chart CH3 shown in Figure 6, the vertical axis is set to the set temperature of the air conditioner 1, and the horizontal axis is set to time. Chart CH3 shown in Figure 6 also shows the change in the set temperature over time when the air conditioner 1 is performing heating.

[0072] 6 illustrates an example in which the target temperature and the first set temperature are both 20° C. If the user sets the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to 21° C. at timing T8, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 will be 21° C. from timing T8 onwards.

[0073] Timing T9 is the timing when the first predetermined period has elapsed. In the example of FIG. 6 , at timing T9, the determination unit 302 determines that the first condition is met and that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 should not be reduced. Therefore, at timing T9, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 from the second set temperature. After the first condition is met, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioner 1. Therefore, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 remains set to 21° C. even after timing T9. Timing T10 is the timing when the second predetermined period has elapsed. When timing T10 arrives, the server processor 300 terminates the processing shown in FIG. 3 . Furthermore, when timing T10 arrives, the remote control 13 changes the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to the target temperature using the set temperature automatic return function.

[0074] <Second condition is met> If the change unit 303 determines that the second condition is met and the determination unit 302 makes a negative determination in step SA4, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioner 1. In other words, if the user changes the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 from the first set temperature to the second set temperature while the thermostat is off, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioner 1.

[0075] The change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 over time when the second condition is met will be described with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is chart CH4 showing the change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 over time. In chart CH4 shown in Figure 7, the vertical axis is set to the set temperature of the air conditioner 1, and the horizontal axis is set to time. Chart CH4 shown in Figure 7 also shows the change in the set temperature over time when the air conditioner 1 is performing heating.

[0076] 7 illustrates an example in which the target temperature and the first set temperature are both 20° C. If the user sets the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to 24° C. at timing T11, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 will be 24° C. from timing T11 onwards.

[0077] Timing T12 is the timing when the first predetermined period has elapsed. In the example of FIG. 7 , at timing T12, the determination unit 302 determines that the second condition is met and that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 should not be reduced. Therefore, at timing T12, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 from the second set temperature. After the second condition is met, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioner 1. Therefore, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 remains set to 21° C. after timing T12. Timing T13 is the timing when the second predetermined period has elapsed. When timing T13 arrives, the server processor 300 terminates the processing shown in FIG. 3 . Furthermore, when timing T13 arrives, the remote control 13 changes the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to the target temperature using the set temperature automatic return function.

[0078] <Third condition is met> If the change unit 303 determines that the third condition is met and the determination unit 302 makes a negative determination in step SA4, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1. In other words, if the second set temperature changed by the user is a set temperature that is more energy-saving than the target temperature, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1.

[0079] The change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 over time when the third condition is met will be described with reference to Figure 8. Figure 8 is chart CH5 showing the change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 over time. In chart CH5 shown in Figure 8, the vertical axis is set to the set temperature of the air conditioner 1, and the horizontal axis is set to time. Chart CH5 shown in Figure 8 also shows the change in the set temperature over time when the air conditioner 1 is performing heating.

[0080] Chart CH5 shown in Fig. 8 illustrates an example in which the target temperature is 20°C and the first set temperature is 17°C. If the user sets the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 to 19°C at timing T14, the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 will be 19°C from timing T14 onwards.

[0081] Timing T15 is the timing when the first predetermined period has elapsed. In the example of FIG. 8 , at timing T15, the determination unit 302 determines that the third condition is met and that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 should not be reduced. Therefore, at timing T15, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 from the second set temperature. Therefore, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 remains set to 19°C after timing T15. Timing T16 is the timing when the second predetermined period has elapsed. When timing T16 arrives, the server processor 300 terminates the processing shown in FIG. 3 . Note that because the set temperature changed by the user is on the energy-saving side compared to the target temperature, the remote control 13 does not perform the automatic set temperature return function even when timing T16 arrives. Note that in the example of FIG. 8 , the automatic set temperature return function is not performed even when timing T16 arrives; however, the automatic set temperature return function may be performed even when the set temperature changed by the user is on the energy-saving side compared to the target temperature.

[0082] [1-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, the air conditioning system 1000 includes a determination unit 302 that determines whether the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should be reduced after the user changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the first set temperature to the second set temperature, and a change unit 303 that changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the second set temperature to the third set temperature when the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change should be reduced. The third set temperature is a set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature and more energy-saving than the second set temperature.

[0083] According to this, when the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 is changed to the increased energy side, the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 is not uniformly reduced, but rather the amount of change is reduced if it is determined that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 should be reduced. Thus, after considering whether or not the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 should be reduced, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 can be changed so that the amount of change is reduced.

[0084] When a first condition is met, the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should not be reduced. The first condition is that the difference between the first set temperature and the second set temperature is equal to or less than a predetermined value. When the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should not be reduced, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the second set temperature.

[0085] According to this, if the degree of change in the set temperature toward the energy increase side is small, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 will not be changed from the second set temperature. Therefore, if the energy consumption of the air conditioner 1 does not increase significantly, it is possible to prevent the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 from being unnecessarily changed to a set temperature different from the set temperature intended by the user.

[0086] If a second condition is met, the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should not be reduced. The second condition is that the user changed the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the first set temperature to the second set temperature while the thermostat was off. If the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should not be reduced, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the second set temperature.

[0087] According to this, if there is a possibility that the user has changed the set temperature in order to receive warm or cool air while the thermostat is off, the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 will not be changed from the second set temperature. This makes it possible to prevent the set temperature from being changed while the thermostat is off, which would result in a loss of comfort in the conditioned space S.

[0088] If a third condition is met, the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should not be reduced. The third condition is that the second set temperature changed by the user is a set temperature that is more energy-saving than the target temperature. If the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should not be reduced, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the second set temperature.

[0089] The determination unit 302 determines whether a fourth condition is met. The fourth condition is that, after the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 is changed to the third set temperature, the user changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 to a set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the third set temperature. If the determination unit 302 determines that the fourth condition is met, the change unit 303 does not change the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the set temperature set by the user.

[0090] According to this, if the user changes the set temperature to the increased energy side after the set temperature has been changed to the third set temperature, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 will not be changed from the set temperature set by the user. This makes it possible to prevent the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 from being changed to a set temperature different from the set temperature intended by the user. This makes it possible to prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable due to the set temperature being changed multiple times to a set temperature different from the set temperature intended by the user.

[0091] According to this, if there is a possibility that the user has changed the set temperature in order to save energy rather than the target temperature, the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 will not be changed from the second set temperature. This prevents the user from feeling uncomfortable due to the set temperature being changed to a temperature different from the set temperature intended by the user.

[0092] The determination unit 302 determines whether or not the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should be reduced when a first predetermined period has elapsed since the user changed the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 to the second set temperature.

[0093] This can prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable when the temperature is immediately changed to the third set temperature even though the user has changed it to the second set temperature.

[0094] The control method for the air conditioning system 1000 includes a first step of determining whether or not the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should be reduced after the user changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from a first set temperature to a second set temperature, and a second step of changing the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the second set temperature to a third set temperature if the first step determines that the amount of change should be reduced. The third set temperature is a set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature and more energy-saving than the second set temperature.

[0095] This provides the same effects as the air conditioning system 1000 described above.

[0096] The control program 311 causes the server processor 300 to function as a determination unit 302 that determines whether the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should be reduced after the user changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from a first set temperature to a second set temperature, and as a change unit 303 that changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the second set temperature to a third set temperature when the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change should be reduced. The third set temperature is a set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature and more energy-saving than the second set temperature.

[0097] This provides the same effects as the air conditioning system 1000 described above.

[0098] (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the description of the second embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described. In the first embodiment described above, the target temperature is a temperature determined in advance by a person such as the administrator P. In the second embodiment, the target temperature is a temperature determined by the management server 3, as compared to the first embodiment.

[0099] [2-1. Configuration] [2-1-1. Configuration of Air Conditioning System] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioning system 1000 according to the second embodiment.

[0100] 9 and 1 , the air conditioning system 1000 in the second embodiment includes a weather server 4. The weather server 4 is a server device that provides weather data. The weather data provided by the server includes at least the forecast value of the outside air temperature of the facility H.

[0101] 9, each weather server 4 is represented by a single block, but this does not necessarily mean that the weather server 4 is configured by a single device. For example, the weather server 4 may be configured to include multiple server devices with different processing contents, or may be configured by the same server device.

[0102] Furthermore, as is clear from a comparison of FIG. 9 with FIG. 1, the operation data RD in the second embodiment further includes an air conditioner ID (Identification).

[0103] Furthermore, the remote control 13 in the second embodiment receives target temperature data MSD from the management server 3 via the indoor unit 11. The target temperature data MSD is data indicating the target temperature. When a second predetermined period has elapsed since the user changed the set temperature, the remote control 13 uses the set temperature automatic return function to set the set temperature of the air conditioning apparatus 1 to the target temperature indicated by the most recently received target temperature data MSD.

[0104] 2-1-2. Configuration of Management Server FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of the management server 3 according to the second embodiment.

[0105] 10 and 2, the server memory 310 in the second embodiment stores a control program 311A ​​instead of the control program 311. The server memory 310 in the second embodiment also stores a management database (DB) 312. The control program 311A ​​is an example of a "program."

[0106] The management DB 312 is a database that has one record R for each air conditioning apparatus 1. Each record R records an air conditioner ID, communication information, the location of the facility H, the air conditioning type, the current set temperature, first management data MD1, and second management data MD2. The communication information is information for communicating with the air conditioning apparatus 1, such as address information for the air conditioning apparatus 1. The location of the facility H is the location of the facility H where the air conditioning apparatus 1 is installed, such as the address of the facility H. The current set temperature is the set temperature set in the air conditioning apparatus 1. The first management data MD1 is data that manages information related to changes in the target temperature during cooling. The second management data MD2 is data that manages information related to changes in the target temperature during heating. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the first management data MD1 and the second management data MD2, they will be referred to as "management data MD" with the symbol "MD" attached.

[0107] 11 is a diagram showing an example of the first management data MD1. The first management data MD1 records time periods in one-hour increments from 0:00 to 23:59. More specifically, the first management data MD1 records time periods from N:00 to N:59 for each of the midnight to 23:00 hours. N is an integer between 0 and 23.

[0108] The first management data MD1 also records multiple outside air temperatures in 1°C increments. The range of outside air temperatures recorded in the first management data MD1 includes at least the range of temperatures that the outside air can reach at the facility H. Note that the range of outside air temperatures recorded in the first management data MD1 may be the same regardless of the location of the facility H, or may be different depending on the location of the facility H.

[0109] The first management data MD1 records one piece of collected data AD for each combination of one time period and one outside air temperature. The collected data AD contains information related to the actual changes to the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1. The collected data AD collects various data within a predetermined range of set temperatures. From the predetermined range of set temperatures indicated by the collected data AD, a target temperature is determined by processing in the flowchart described below.

[0110] The collected data AD records the set temperatures of multiple air conditioners 1 in increments of 0.5° C. In the example of Fig. 11, the collected data AD records 23°C, 23.5°C, 24°C, 24.5°C, 25°C, 25.5°C, 26°C, 26.5°C, 27°C, 27.5°C, and 28°C.

[0111] The collected data AD records the number of actual settings, the number of changes, and the change probability for each recorded set temperature. In the example of FIG. 11 , the collected data AD records the number of actual settings, the number of changes, and the change probability for each of 23°C, 23.5°C, 24°C, 24.5°C, 25°C, 25.5°C, 26°C, 26.5°C, 27°C, 27.5°C, and 28°C. The number of actual settings indicates the number of times the corresponding set temperature was set in the air conditioning device 1. The number of changes indicates the number of times the corresponding set temperature was changed to another set temperature. The change probability indicates the probability that the corresponding set temperature will be changed to another set temperature. The change probability is a probability calculated by dividing the corresponding number of changes by the corresponding number of actual settings. The change probability is an example of an "element."

[0112] 12 is a diagram showing an example of second management data MD2. The second management data MD2 is different from the first management data MD1 in the predetermined range of set temperatures indicated by the recorded collected data AD. The collected data AD recorded in the first management data MD1 has a predetermined range of set temperatures between 23°C and 28°C. In contrast, the collected data AD recorded in the second management data MD2 has a predetermined range of set temperatures between 18°C ​​and 23°C.

[0113] Returning to the explanation of the configuration of the management server 3, as is clear from a comparison of Figures 10 and 2, the server processor 300 further functions as an acquisition unit 304, an update unit 305, a determination unit 306, and a target temperature setting unit 307 by reading and executing the control program 311A ​​stored in the server memory 310.

[0114] The acquisition unit 304 acquires the outside air temperature. The acquisition unit 304 processes one record R and acquires the outside air temperature based on the record R being processed. More specifically, the acquisition unit 304 generates forecast value request information based on the record R being processed and outputs the generated forecast value request information to the communication control unit 301. The forecast value request information is information requesting a forecast value of the outside air temperature for a time period including the current time, and records the location of the facility H recorded in the record R being processed and the requested time period. For example, if the current time is H:M, the forecast value request information records the time period from H:00 to H+1:00. Note that H is an integer from 0 to 24, and M is an integer from 0 to 59. When the communication control unit 301 receives the forecast value request information from the acquisition unit 304, it transmits the received forecast value request information to the weather server 4. The communication control unit 301 then receives from the weather server 4 a plurality of forecast values ​​corresponding to the location and time period of the facility H recorded in the transmitted forecast value request information. The acquisition unit 304 calculates the average of the forecast values ​​received by the communication control unit 301 and acquires the calculated average value as the outside air temperature. Note that in this embodiment, the acquisition unit 304 either discards or rounds off decimal points when calculating the average forecast value.

[0115] The update unit 305 updates the management DB 312. At L minutes past each hour, the update unit 305 updates the number of performance records recorded in the collected data AD. The update unit 305 updates the number of performance records for each record R. Here, L is an integer between 0 and 59, e.g., 0. More specifically, when L minutes past each hour, the update unit 305 first causes the acquisition unit 304 to acquire the outdoor air temperature based on the record R being processed. Next, the update unit 305 references the management data MD of the record R being processed and identifies the collected data AD corresponding to the combination of the time period including the current time and the outdoor air temperature that the acquisition unit 304 has acquired. More specifically, if the air conditioning type of the record R being processed is cooling, the update unit 305 identifies the collected data AD from the first management data MD1. If the air conditioning type of the record R being processed is heating, the update unit 305 identifies the collected data AD from the second management data MD2. Then, the update unit 305 increments the number of achievements recorded in the identified collected data AD that corresponds to the current set temperature recorded in the record R to be processed. The update unit 305 also updates the change probability corresponding to the incremented number of achievements to a change probability that reflects the incremented number of achievements.

[0116] Here, updating of the number of achievements will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a diagram for explaining updating of the number of achievements.

[0117] The explanation of Figure 13 will be given by way of example of a case where the current time when updating the performance count is between 14:00 and 15:00, and the outdoor air temperature acquired by the acquisition unit 304 is 34°C. The explanation of Figure 13 will also be given by way of example of a case where the air conditioning device 1 is performing cooling operation. In the case of Figure 13, the update unit 305 identifies the collected data AD corresponding to the combination of the time period between 14:00 and 15:00, and the outdoor air temperature of 34°C, from the first management data MD1 recorded in the record R to be processed.

[0118] The explanation of Fig. 13 will be given by way of example when the current set temperature recorded in the record R to be processed is 25°C. That is, the explanation of Fig. 13 will be given by way of example when the set temperature set in the air conditioning apparatus 1 is 25°C. In the case of Fig. 13, the update unit 305 increments the number of achievements corresponding to 25°C from "4" to "5" among the number of achievements recorded in the identified collected data AD. Furthermore, in the case of Fig. 5, the update unit 305 updates the change probability corresponding to 25°C from "3 / 4" to "3 / 5" in conjunction with the update of the number of achievements.

[0119] Next, the update performed by the update unit 305 will be described. When the communication control unit 301 receives operation data RD, the update unit 305 updates the management DB 312 based on the received operation data RD. The update unit 305 identifies a record R having the air conditioner ID of the received operation data RD from the management DB 312. Next, the update unit 305 updates the current set temperature of the identified record R to the changed set temperature recorded in the received operation data RD. The update unit 305 also updates the air conditioning type of the identified record R to the air conditioning type recorded in the received operation data RD.

[0120] Furthermore, the updating unit 305 causes the acquiring unit 304 to acquire the outside air temperature based on the record R identified by the received operation data RD. Next, if the air conditioning type recorded in the received operation data RD is cooling, the updating unit 305 identifies, from the first management data MD1 of the identified record R, collected data AD corresponding to the set of a time period including the current time and the outside air temperature that the acquiring unit 304 has acquired. Furthermore, if the air conditioning type recorded in the received operation data RD is heating, the updating unit 305 identifies, from the second management data MD2 of the identified record R, collected data AD corresponding to the set of a time period including the current time and the outside air temperature that the acquiring unit 304 has acquired. Next, the updating unit 305 references the received operation data RD, and if the air conditioning type indicates cooling and the changed set temperature is lower than the set temperature before the change, increments the number of changes recorded in the identified collected data AD that corresponds to the set temperature before the change recorded in the received operation data RD. Furthermore, the update unit 305 refers to the received operation data RD, and if the air conditioning type indicates heating and the changed set temperature is higher than the set temperature before the change, increments the number of changes recorded in the identified collected data AD that corresponds to the set temperature before the change recorded in the received operation data RD. Note that the update unit 305 also updates the change probability corresponding to the incremented number of changes to a change probability that reflects the incremented number of changes.

[0121] Here, updating of the number of changes will be described with reference to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is a diagram for explaining updating of the number of changes.

[0122] The explanation of Fig. 14 will be given by way of example of a case where the current time when the number of changes is updated is between 14:00 and 15:00, and the outdoor temperature acquired by the acquisition unit 304 is 34°C. The explanation of Fig. 14 will also be given by way of example of a case where the air conditioning apparatus 1 is performing cooling operation. In the case of Fig. 14 , the update unit 305 identifies the collected data AD corresponding to the combination of the time period between 14:00 and 15:00, and the outdoor temperature of 34°C, from the first management data MD1 recorded in the record R1 to be processed.

[0123] 14 illustrates an example in which the pre-change set temperature recorded in the received operation data RD is 25° C. Also, in the example in FIG. 14, an example in which the post-change set temperature recorded in the received operation data RD is 24° C. In this example, the update unit 305 increments the number of changes corresponding to 25° C. from "3" to "4" among the number of changes recorded in the identified collected data AD. Also, in the example in FIG. 14, the update unit 305 updates the change probability corresponding to 25° C. from "3 / 4" to "4 / 4" in conjunction with the update of the number of changes.

[0124] 10, the determination unit 306 determines the target temperature. Details of the determination unit 306 will be described later.

[0125] The target temperature setting unit 307 sets the target temperature determined by the determination unit 306 in the air conditioner 1. The target temperature setting unit 307 sets the target temperature in the air conditioner 1 based on the record R to be processed. In detail, the target temperature setting unit 307 generates target temperature data MSD and outputs the generated target temperature data MSD and communication information recorded in the record R to be processed to the communication control unit 301. The target temperature determined by the determination unit 306 is recorded in the generated target temperature data MSD. The communication control unit 301 transmits the target temperature data MSD received from the target temperature setting unit 307 to the air conditioner 1 based on the communication information received from the target temperature setting unit 307.

[0126] [2-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each part of the air conditioning system 1000 in this embodiment will be described. Comparing embodiment 2 with embodiment 1, in embodiment 2 the management server 3 further executes operations related to the target temperature. With reference to Figures 15 to 18, the operations related to the set temperature to be set in the air conditioning device 1 will be described.

[0127] Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the management server 3. The flowchart in Fig. 15 is a flowchart that starts at K minutes past the hour. Here, K is an integer between 0 and 59, for example, 0. The flowchart in Fig. 15 is a flowchart that is performed for each air conditioning apparatus 1. In other words, the flowchart in Fig. 15 is an operation that is performed for each record R stored in the management DB 312.

[0128] The acquisition unit 304 acquires the outside air temperature based on the record R to be processed (step SB1). Step SB1 will be described in detail. The acquisition unit 304 generates forecast value request information based on the record R to be processed and outputs the generated forecast value request information to the communication control unit 301. For example, if the current time is 10:00, the forecast value request information records a time period from 10:00 to 11:00. When the communication control unit 301 receives the forecast value request information from the acquisition unit 304, it transmits the received forecast value request information to the weather server 4. The communication control unit 301 then receives from the weather server 4 multiple forecast values ​​(e.g., a forecast value for 10:00 and a forecast value for 11:00) corresponding to the location and time period of the facility H recorded in the transmitted forecast value request information. The acquisition unit 304 calculates the average of the forecast values ​​received by the communication control unit 301 and acquires the calculated average as the outside air temperature.

[0129] Next, the determining unit 306 identifies the collected data AD to be processed from the management data MD recorded in the record R to be processed (step SB2).

[0130] Step SB2 will be described in detail. When the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed indicates cooling, the determination unit 306 identifies collected data AD corresponding to the set of the time period including the current time and the outside air temperature acquired in step SA1 from the first management data MD1 recorded in the record R to be processed. Furthermore, when the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed indicates heating, the determination unit 306 identifies collected data AD corresponding to the set of the time period including the current time and the outside air temperature acquired in step SB1 from the second management data MD2 recorded in the record R to be processed.

[0131] Next, the determination unit 306 performs a determination process (step SB3) to determine the target temperature. In the determination process, the collected data AD identified in step SB2 is processed.

[0132] Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing the operation of the determination unit 306 in the determination process. The operation shown in Fig. 16 is performed when the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed indicates cooling.

[0133] The determination unit 306 determines whether the set temperatures included in the predetermined range indicated by the collected data AD to be processed satisfy the following first set temperature condition (step SB31): First set temperature condition: A fourth set temperature and a fifth set temperature exist.

[0134] The fourth set temperature is a set temperature whose corresponding change probability is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, such as 0.1 (10% as a percentage). The fifth set temperature is a set temperature that is next lowest after the first set temperature within the predetermined range of set temperatures indicated by the collected data AD and whose corresponding change probability is less than the predetermined threshold.

[0135] The fourth and fifth set temperatures will now be described with reference to Fig. 11. In the collected data AD shown in Fig. 11, a change probability of "0 / 3" is recorded for 23°C, a change probability of "0 / 3" is recorded for 23.5°C, a change probability of "0 / 1" is recorded for 24°C, a change probability of "1 / 2" is recorded for 24.5°C, a change probability of "3 / 4" is recorded for 25°C, a change probability of "3 / 4" is recorded for 25.5°C, a change probability of "2 / 3" is recorded for 26°C, a change probability of "2 / 3" is recorded for 26.5°C, a change probability of "4 / 4" is recorded for 27°C, a change probability of "3 / 4" is recorded for 27.5°C, and a change probability of "4 / 4" is recorded for 28°C.

[0136] When the predetermined threshold value is 0.1, in the collected data AD shown in Fig. 11, all temperatures from 24.5 to 28°C correspond to the fourth set temperature, and 24°C corresponds to the fifth set temperature. Note that the collected data AD shown in Fig. 11 satisfies the first set temperature condition.

[0137] Returning to the explanation of the flowchart shown in Figure 16, if the determination unit 306 determines that the first set temperature condition is met (step SB31: YES), it determines whether there are multiple fifth set temperatures among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed (step SB32).

[0138] If it is determined that there are not multiple fifth set temperatures (step SB32: NO), the determination unit 306 determines the fifth set temperature as the target temperature (step SB33).

[0139] Here, step SB33 will be specifically described with reference to Fig. 11. When the predetermined threshold is 0.1, 24°C is the fifth set temperature in the collected data AD shown in Fig. 11, and other set temperatures do not correspond to the fifth set temperature. Therefore, when the predetermined threshold is 0.1 and the collected data AD to be processed is the collected data AD shown in Fig. 11, the determination unit 306 determines 24°C as the target temperature in step SB33.

[0140] On the other hand, if the determination unit 306 determines that there are multiple fifth set temperatures (step SB33: YES), it determines the fifth set temperature that most increases the comfort of the conditioned space S among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed as the target temperature (step SB34).

[0141] The set temperature that maximizes the comfort of the conditioned space S among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD refers to the lowest set temperature among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD when the air conditioning performed by the air conditioning device 1 is cooling.

[0142] Step SB34 will now be described in detail with reference to FIG. 17 . FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of collected data AD. In the collected data AD shown in FIG. 17 , a change probability of "0 / 3" is recorded for 23° C., a change probability of "0 / 3" is recorded for 23.5° C., a change probability of "0 / 1" is recorded for 24° C., a change probability of "1 / 2" is recorded for 24.5° C., a change probability of "0 / 2" is recorded for 25° C., a change probability of "3 / 4" is recorded for 25.5° C., a change probability of "2 / 3" is recorded for 26° C., a change probability of "2 / 3" is recorded for 26.5° C., a change probability of "4 / 4" is recorded for 27° C., a change probability of "3 / 4" is recorded for 27.5° C., and a change probability of "4 / 4" is recorded for 28° C.

[0143] When the predetermined threshold is 0.1, in the collected data AD shown in Fig. 17, 24.5°C and 25.5°C to 28°C each correspond to the fourth set temperature, and 24°C and 25°C correspond to the fifth set temperature. Therefore, when the predetermined threshold is 0.1 and the collected data AD to be processed is the collected data AD shown in Fig. 17, if the air conditioning being performed by the air conditioning apparatus 1 is cooling, the determination unit 306 determines the fifth set temperature of 24°C as the target temperature.

[0144] Returning to the explanation of step SB31, if the determination unit 306 determines that the first set temperature condition is not satisfied (step SB31: NO), the determination unit 306 determines whether all set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed are the fourth set temperature or the sixth set temperature (step SA35). The sixth set temperature is a set temperature whose corresponding change probability is less than a predetermined threshold.

[0145] If the determination unit 306 determines that all of the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed are the fourth set temperature (step SB35: fourth set temperature), it determines the set temperature among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed that will make the conditioned space S most comfortable as the target temperature (step SB36).

[0146] Returning to the explanation of step SB35, if the determination unit 306 determines that all of the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed are the sixth set temperature (step SB35: sixth set temperature), it determines the set temperature among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed that will result in the least energy saving of the air conditioning device 1 as the target temperature (step SB37).

[0147] The set temperature recorded in the collected data AD that results in the least energy consumption by the air conditioning device 1 refers to the highest set temperature recorded in the collected data AD when the air conditioning performed by the air conditioning device 1 is cooling.

[0148] Fig. 18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the determination unit 306 in the determination process. The operation shown in Fig. 18 is performed when the air conditioning type of the record R to be processed indicates heating. In the explanation of Fig. 18, the same steps as in Fig. 16 are assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed explanations thereof will be omitted.

[0149] The determination unit 306 determines whether the set temperatures included in the predetermined range indicated by the collected data AD to be processed satisfy the following second set temperature condition (step SB41). The second set temperature condition is that a sixth set temperature and a seventh set temperature exist.

[0150] The sixth set temperature is a set temperature whose corresponding change probability is less than a predetermined threshold, and the seventh set temperature is a set temperature that is next lowest in the predetermined range after the sixth set temperature and whose corresponding change probability is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0151] The seventh set temperature will now be described with reference to Fig. 12. In the collected data AD shown in Fig. 12, a change probability of "4 / 4" is recorded for 18°C, a change probability of "2 / 3" is recorded for 18.5°C, a change probability of "2 / 3" is recorded for 19°C, a change probability of "2 / 3" is recorded for 19.5°C, a change probability of "1 / 4" is recorded for 20°C, a change probability of "0 / 2" is recorded for 20.5°C, a change probability of "0 / 2" is recorded for 21°C, a change probability of "0 / 3" is recorded for 21.5°C, a change probability of "0 / 2" is recorded for 22°C, a change probability of "0 / 3" is recorded for 22.5°C, and a change probability of "0 / 2" is recorded for 23°C.

[0152] When the predetermined threshold value is 0.1, in the collected data AD shown in Fig. 12, 20.5°C to 23°C each correspond to the sixth set temperature, and 20°C corresponds to the seventh set temperature. Note that the collected data AD shown in Fig. 12 satisfies the second set temperature condition described above.

[0153] Returning to the explanation of the flowchart shown in Figure 18, if the determination unit 306 determines that the second set temperature condition is met (step SB41: YES), it determines whether there are multiple sixth set temperatures among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed (step SB42).

[0154] If it is determined that there are not multiple sixth set temperatures (step SB42: NO), the determination unit 306 determines the sixth set temperature as the target temperature (step SB43).

[0155] On the other hand, if the determination unit 306 determines that there are multiple sixth set temperatures (step SB43: YES), it determines the sixth set temperature that most increases the comfort of the conditioned space S among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD to be processed as the target temperature (step SB44).

[0156] The set temperature that maximizes the comfort of the conditioned space S among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD refers to the highest set temperature among the set temperatures recorded in the collected data AD when the air conditioning performed by the air conditioning device 1 is heating.

[0157] Returning to the explanation of step SB41, if the decision unit 306 determines that the second set temperature condition is not satisfied (step SB41: NO), it performs the processes from step SB35 onwards.

[0158] In addition, the set temperature recorded in the collected data AD that results in the least energy consumption by the air conditioning device 1 refers to the lowest set temperature recorded in the collected data AD when the air conditioning performed by the air conditioning device 1 is heating.

[0159] Returning to the explanation of the flowchart in FIG. 15, the target temperature setting unit 307 sets the target temperature to the set temperature determined in the determination process of step SB3 (step SB4).

[0160] [2-3. Effects, etc.] According to the second embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment described above can be achieved.

[0161] The air conditioning system 1000 also includes a server memory 310 that stores, for each set temperature of the air conditioning device 1, the number of times the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 has been changed; a determination unit 306 that determines a target temperature based on the number of times the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 has been changed stored in the server memory 310; and a target temperature setting unit 307 that sets the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 to the target temperature determined by the determination unit 306 when a second predetermined period has elapsed since the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 was changed from the first set temperature to the second set temperature.

[0162] According to this, by determining the target temperature based on the number of times the set temperature of the air conditioner has been changed, the target temperature can be set to a temperature that is unlikely to cause discomfort to the user, and therefore the number of times the user changes the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 after the second predetermined period has elapsed can be reduced. Therefore, the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 can be changed while suppressing an increase in energy consumption of the air conditioner 1 due to changes in the set temperature.

[0163] (Embodiment 3) Next, embodiment 3 will be described. In the description of embodiment 3, differences from embodiment 1 will be mainly described. In embodiment 1 described above, the third set temperature is a temperature based on formula (1). In embodiment 3, when the temperature based on formula (1) is on the energy-saving side compared to the target temperature, the third set temperature is set to the target temperature.

[0164] [3-1. Configuration] In the third embodiment, compared to the second embodiment, the change unit 303 performs the following process in determining the third set temperature. The change unit 303 calculates a temperature using equation (1) based on the operation data RD. Next, if the calculated temperature is not on the energy-saving side of the target temperature recorded in the operation data RD, the change unit 303 determines the temperature calculated using equation (1) as the third set temperature. On the other hand, if the calculated temperature is on the energy-saving side of the target temperature recorded in the operation data RD, the change unit 303 determines the target temperature recorded in the operation data RD as the third set temperature.

[0165] [3-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each unit of the air conditioning system 1000 in this embodiment will be described. Comparing the third embodiment with the first embodiment, the third embodiment differs in that the change unit 303 determines the third set temperature described above.

[0166] Figure 19 is chart CH6 showing changes over time in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1. In chart CH6 shown in Figure 19, the vertical axis is set to the set temperature of the air conditioner 1, and the horizontal axis is set to time. Chart CH6 shown in Figure 19 also shows changes over time in the set temperature when the air conditioner 1 is performing heating.

[0167] Chart CH6 shown in Figure 19 illustrates an example in which the target temperature is 20°C and the first set temperature is 18°C. If the user sets the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 to 21°C at timing T17, the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 will be 21°C from timing T17 onwards.

[0168] Timing T18 is the timing when the first predetermined period has elapsed. Chart CH6 in FIG. 19 illustrates an example in which the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should be reduced. In the first embodiment, based on formula (1), the change unit 303 determines 19.5°C as the third set temperature. In the present embodiment, because the temperature based on formula (1) is more energy-saving than the target temperature of 20°C, the change unit 303 determines the target temperature of 20°C as the third set temperature. Therefore, in FIG. 19, at timing T18, the change unit 303 changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the second set temperature to the third set temperature, which is the target temperature.

[0169] [3-3. Effects, etc.] According to the third embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be achieved.

[0170] Furthermore, when the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should be reduced, the change unit 303 calculates a third set temperature from the first set temperature and the second set temperature based on formula (1). When the calculated third set temperature is a set temperature that is more energy-saving than the target temperature, the change unit 303 determines the target temperature to be the third set temperature, and changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 from the second set temperature to the determined third set temperature.

[0171] This makes it possible to prevent the temperature from being changed too far to the energy-saving side from the target temperature, thereby preventing the comfort of the air-conditioned space S from being impaired.

[0172] (Fourth Embodiment) Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. In the description of the fourth embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described. In the first embodiment described above, the third set temperature is a temperature based on formula (1). In the third embodiment, the third set temperature is determined taking into consideration the thermo-off condition described below.

[0173] [4-1. Configuration] In comparison with Embodiment 1, in Embodiment 3, the change unit 303 takes into account the thermo-off condition when determining the third set temperature. In more detail, when the air conditioning apparatus 1 is performing heating, the change unit 303 in this embodiment determines the third set temperature taking into account the first thermo-off condition, and when the air conditioning apparatus 1 is performing cooling, the change unit 303 determines the third set temperature taking into account the second thermo-off condition.

[0174] The first thermo-off condition is that the temperature calculated from formula (1) satisfies the following formula (2): Intake temperature of indoor unit 11 ≧ temperature calculated from formula (1) + predetermined temperature (2) In formula (2), the predetermined temperature is, for example, 1°C.

[0175] The second thermo-off condition is that the suction temperature of the indoor unit 11 satisfies the following formula (3): Suction temperature of indoor unit 11≦Temperature calculated from formula (1)−Predetermined temperature (3) In formula (3), the predetermined temperature is, for example, 1°C.

[0176] The change unit 303 performs the following process based on the operation data RD that the determination unit 302 has selected as the processing target.

[0177] If the judgment unit 302 determines that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should be reduced, the change unit 303 substitutes the first set temperature and the second set temperature recorded in the operation data RD to be processed into equation (1) and calculates the third set temperature using equation (1).

[0178] When the air conditioning type recorded in the operation data RD to be processed is heating, the change unit 303 substitutes the suction temperature into the right side of equation (2) and also substitutes the third set temperature calculated by equation (1) into equation (2), and determines whether the inequality of equation (2) holds. Note that when the remote control 13 or the indoor unit 11 detects the suction temperature at predetermined intervals and transmits data indicating the detected suction temperature to the management server 3 at predetermined intervals, the change unit 303 substitutes the suction temperature indicated by the most recently received data into the right side of equation (2). Furthermore, when the air conditioning type recorded in the operation data RD to be processed is cooling, the change unit 303 substitutes the suction temperature into the right side of equation (3), and also substitutes the third set temperature calculated by equation (1) into equation (3), and determines whether the inequality of equation (3) holds.

[0179] If the change unit 303 determines that the inequality holds, it determines the third set temperature as the suction temperature of the indoor unit 11. That is, the change unit 303 determines the suction temperature substituted into the right side of equation (2) or equation (3) as the new third set temperature. On the other hand, if the change unit 303 determines that the inequality does not hold, it determines the third set temperature in the same manner as in embodiment 1.

[0180] [4-2. Operation] Next, the operation of each unit of the air conditioning system 1000 in this embodiment will be described. Comparing the third embodiment with the first embodiment, the third embodiment differs in that the change unit 303 determines the third set temperature described above.

[0181] With reference to FIG. 20, the change over time in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 when the thermo-off condition is satisfied will be described.

[0182] Figure 20 is chart CH7 showing changes over time in the set temperature of the air conditioner 1. In chart CH7 shown in Figure 20, the vertical axis is set to the set temperature of the air conditioner 1, and the horizontal axis is set to time. Chart CH7 shown in Figure 20 also shows changes over time in the set temperature when the air conditioner 1 is performing heating.

[0183] Chart CH7 shown in Figure 20 illustrates an example in which the target temperature and the first set temperature are both 20°C. If the user sets the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 to 24°C at timing T19, the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 will be 24°C from timing T19 onwards.

[0184] Timing T20 is the timing when the first predetermined period has elapsed. Chart CH7 in FIG. 20 illustrates an example in which the determination unit 302 determines that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning apparatus 1 should be reduced. Chart CH7 in FIG. 20 also illustrates an example in which the suction temperature of the indoor unit 11 at timing T19 is 23°C. In the first embodiment, based on equation (1), the change unit 303 determines 22°C as the third set temperature. However, if the set temperature of the air conditioning apparatus 1 is set to 22°C when the suction temperature is 23°C, the air conditioning apparatus 1 will enter thermo-off mode when the set temperature of the air conditioning apparatus 1 is changed. Therefore, to prevent this from occurring, in the present embodiment, when the thermo-off condition is met, the change unit 303 determines the third set temperature as the suction temperature. Therefore, in FIG. 20, at timing T20, the change unit 303 changes the set temperature of the air conditioning apparatus 1 from 24°C to 23°C.

[0185] [4-3. Effects, etc.] According to the fourth embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be achieved.

[0186] Furthermore, according to the fourth embodiment, it is possible to prevent the air conditioner 1 from turning off the thermostat when switching from the second set temperature to the third set temperature.

[0187] (Other Embodiments) As described above, the above-mentioned first, second, third, and fourth embodiments have been described as examples disclosed in the present application. However, the technology in the present disclosure is not limited to these, and can also be applied to embodiments in which modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. are made. Furthermore, it is also possible to combine the components described in the above-mentioned first, second, third, and fourth embodiments to create new embodiments. Therefore, other embodiments will be described below as examples.

[0188] In another embodiment, the air conditioning system 1000 may have the configuration shown in FIG. 21 . FIG. 21 is a diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioning system 1000 according to another embodiment. As is clear from comparing FIG. 21 with FIG. 1 , the air conditioning apparatus 1 further includes a communication device 14. The communication device 14 is a device that connects to the network NW and communicates with the management server 3. The communication device 14 is also a device that controls each part of the air conditioning apparatus 1. In this other embodiment, the communication device 14 executes the functions of the remote control 13 described in embodiment 1, including the automatic set temperature return function. The communication device 14 may be a device that can be retrofitted to the air conditioning apparatus 1.

[0189] In the second embodiment described above, the target temperature for the time period including the current time is determined every hour. In other embodiments related to the second embodiment, the target temperature for T hours from the current time may be determined every T hours. Here, T is an integer greater than or equal to 1. It is preferable that this T is the same as the second predetermined period. This is because the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 is set to the target temperature after the second predetermined period has elapsed since the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 was changed.

[0190] In the fourth embodiment described above, when the thermo-off condition is satisfied, the third set temperature is set as the intake temperature, thereby preventing thermo-off from occurring when switching from the second set temperature to the third set temperature. In another embodiment, if thermo-off occurs in the air conditioning apparatus 1 immediately after the set temperature of the air conditioning apparatus 1 is switched from the second set temperature to the third set temperature, the change unit 303 may change the set temperature of the air conditioning apparatus 1 to a set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the third set temperature. This other embodiment provides the same effects as the fourth embodiment.

[0191] In each of the above-described embodiments, the remote control 13 is configured to transmit operation data RD to the management server 3 when it receives an operation to change the set temperature of the air conditioner 1. That is, in each of the above-described embodiments, the remote control 13 and the management server 3 communicate in real time, and when the remote control 13 receives an operation to change the set temperature of the air conditioner 1, it promptly transmits operation data RD to the management server 3. In other embodiments, the remote control 13 may be configured to communicate with the management server 3 at predetermined intervals (e.g., every five minutes). In these other embodiments, if the remote control 13 receives an operation to change the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 by the time of the next communication, it stores the operation data RD. Then, when the time of the next communication arrives, the remote control 13 transmits the stored operation data RD to the management server 3.

[0192] In each of the above-described embodiments, the remote control 13 uses the set temperature automatic return function to set the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 to the target temperature when a second predetermined period has elapsed since the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 was changed. In other embodiments, the remote control 13 may be configured not to execute the set temperature automatic return function when the set temperature of the air conditioner 1 is changed to the energy-saving side.

[0193] In each of the above-described embodiments, the remote controller 13 has the function of automatically returning the set temperature. In other embodiments, other devices such as the indoor unit 11, the outdoor unit 12, and a management device that centrally manages the air conditioning apparatus 1 may have the function of automatically returning the set temperature.

[0194] In the above-described embodiments, formula (1) is used as an example of the "predetermined rule." In other embodiments, the "predetermined rule" may be formula (4): third set temperature = first set temperature + (second set temperature - first set temperature) / P (1) In formula (4), P is an integer or real number equal to or greater than 1.

[0195] In the second embodiment described above, the number of changes is exemplified as an "element." In other embodiments, the "element" is not limited to the number of changes, and may be the actual value of the outside temperature or humidity, a comfort index (PMV), or the like.

[0196] In the second embodiment described above, the parameter for determining the target temperature is the outside air temperature. In other embodiments, the parameter may be, instead of or in addition to the outside air temperature, the outside air humidity, the amount of solar radiation in a predetermined area including the location of the facility H, the amount of precipitation in a predetermined area including the location of the facility H, or the like.

[0197] In the embodiment described above, the predetermined range indicated by the collected data AD of the first management data MD1 is a range of 23°C to 28°C, but this predetermined range is merely an example and may be the range of set temperatures that can be set by the air conditioning apparatus 1, or may be a range that user P is expected to set within the range of set temperatures that can be set by the air conditioning apparatus 1. The same can be said about the collected data AD of the second management data MD2.

[0198] In the first embodiment described above, the plurality of set temperatures included in the predetermined range indicated by the collected data AD are set at intervals of 0.5°C. In other embodiments, the increments of the set temperatures included in the predetermined range are not limited to 0.5°C and may be, for example, 1°C. Also, in the first embodiment described above, the plurality of set temperatures included in the predetermined range indicated by the collected data AD are set at intervals of 1°C. In other embodiments, the increments of the set temperatures included in the predetermined range are not limited to 1°C and may be, for example, 0.5°C.

[0199] In another embodiment, at least one of the functions of the determination unit 302 and the change unit 303 may be executed by a processor of the indoor unit 11, a processor of the outdoor unit 12, a processor of the remote control 13, or the like, instead of the server processor 300. In this other embodiment, the processor of the indoor unit 11, the processor of the outdoor unit 12, or the processor of the remote control 13 corresponds to the "processor." Also, in this other embodiment, a program for realizing at least one of the functions of the determination unit 302 and the change unit 303, which is executed by the processor of the indoor unit 11, the processor of the outdoor unit 12, or the processor of the remote control 13, corresponds to the "program."

[0200] In the second embodiment described above, the target temperature is determined based on the time period including the current time and the number of changes that match the outside air temperature acquired by the acquisition unit 304. That is, in the above-described embodiment, the set temperature is determined based on the number of changes that match the current conditions. In other embodiments, the target temperature may be determined taking into consideration the number of changes that are close to the current conditions (for example, the number of changes of ±1°C relative to the outside air temperature acquired by the acquisition unit 304).

[0201] The server processor 300 may be configured with a single processor or multiple processors. The server processor 300 may also be hardware programmed to implement corresponding functional units. That is, the server processor 300 may be configured with, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0202] The configurations of the management server 3 shown in Figures 2 and 10 are merely examples, and the specific implementation form is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessary to implement hardware corresponding to each unit individually, and it is also possible to implement a configuration in which a single processor executes a program to realize the functions of each unit. Furthermore, some of the functions realized by software in the above-mentioned embodiments may be implemented by hardware, or some of the functions realized by hardware may be implemented by software.

[0203] The step units of the operations shown in Figures 3, 15, 16, and 18 are divided according to the main processing content to make the operations easier to understand, and the operation is not limited by the way the processing units are divided or the names of the processing units. The operations may be divided into more step units depending on the processing content. Furthermore, one step unit may be divided so that it includes more processing. Furthermore, the order of the steps may be changed as appropriate within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0204] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are intended to illustrate the technology of the present disclosure, and various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. may be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0205] (Additional Notes) The above description of the embodiments discloses the following techniques.

[0206] (Technology 1) An air conditioning system that conditions a conditioned space using an air conditioning device, the air conditioning system comprising: a determination unit that determines whether an amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device should be reduced after a user changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from a first set temperature to a second set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature; and a change unit that changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the second set temperature to a third set temperature if the determination unit determines that the amount of change should be reduced, the third set temperature being more energy-increasing than the first set temperature and more energy-saving than the second set temperature. According to this air conditioning system, when the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 is changed to the energy-increasing side, the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 is not uniformly reduced, but rather, if it is determined that the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device 1 should be reduced, the amount of change is reduced. Thus, the set temperature of the air conditioning device can be changed so as to reduce the amount of change, taking into account whether the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device should be reduced.

[0207] (Technology 2) The air conditioning system according to Technology 1 or Technology 1, wherein the determination unit determines that the change amount should not be reduced when a first condition is met, the first condition being that the difference between the first set temperature and the second set temperature is equal to or less than a predetermined value, and the change unit does not change the set temperature of the air conditioner from the second set temperature when the determination unit determines that the change amount should not be reduced. According to this, when the degree of change in the set temperature toward the energy increase side is small, the set temperature of the air conditioner is not changed from the second set temperature. Therefore, when the energy consumption of the air conditioner does not increase significantly, it is possible to prevent the set temperature of the air conditioner from being unnecessarily changed to a set temperature different from the set temperature intended by the user.

[0208] (Technology 3) The air conditioning system according to Technology 1 or Technology 2, wherein the determination unit determines that the change amount should not be reduced if a second condition is met, the second condition being that a user changed the set temperature of the air conditioner from a first set temperature to a second set temperature while the thermostat was off, and the change unit does not change the set temperature of the air conditioner from the second set temperature when the determination unit determines that the change amount should not be reduced. According to this, if there is a possibility that a user changed the set temperature to receive warm or cool air while the thermostat was off, the set temperature of the air conditioner is not changed from the second set temperature. This prevents the set temperature from being changed while the thermostat is off, thereby preventing a loss of comfort in the conditioned space.

[0209] (Technology 4) The air conditioning system according to any one of Techniques 1 to 3, wherein the determination unit determines that the change amount should not be reduced if a third condition is met, the third condition being that the second set temperature changed by the user is a set temperature that is more energy-efficient than a target set temperature for the air conditioning device, and the change unit does not change the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the second set temperature if the determination unit determines that the change amount should not be reduced. According to this, if there is a possibility that the user changed the set temperature to be more energy-efficient than the target temperature, the set temperature of the air conditioning device is not changed from the second set temperature. This prevents the user from feeling uncomfortable if the set temperature is changed to a temperature different from the set temperature intended by the user.

[0210] (Technology 5) The air conditioning system according to any one of Technology 1 to Technology 4, wherein the determination unit determines whether a fourth condition is met, the fourth condition being that after the set temperature of the air conditioner is changed to the third set temperature, the user changes the set temperature of the air conditioner to a set temperature that is more energy-intensive than the third set temperature. If the determination unit determines that the fourth condition is met, the change unit does not change the set temperature of the air conditioner from the set temperature set by the user. According to this, if the user changes the set temperature to a set temperature that is more energy-intensive after changing to the third set temperature, the set temperature of the air conditioner is not changed from the set temperature set by the user. This prevents the set temperature of the air conditioner from being changed to a set temperature different from the set temperature intended by the user. This prevents the user from feeling uncomfortable due to the set temperature being changed repeatedly to a set temperature different from the set temperature intended by the user.

[0211] (Technology 6) The air conditioning system according to any one of Techniques 1 to 5, wherein, when the determination unit determines that the change amount should be reduced, the change unit calculates the third set temperature from the first set temperature and the second set temperature based on a predetermined rule, and when the calculated third set temperature is a set temperature that is more energy-saving than the set temperature targeted by the air conditioning device, determines the third set temperature as the set temperature targeted by the air conditioning device, and changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the second set temperature to the determined third set temperature. This prevents the temperature from being changed too far toward the energy-saving side of the target temperature, thereby preventing a loss of comfort in the air-conditioned space.

[0212] (Technology 7) The air conditioning system according to any one of Techniques 1 to 6, wherein the determination unit determines whether the amount of change should be reduced when a first predetermined period has elapsed since a user changed the set temperature of the air conditioner to the second set temperature. This can prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable when the set temperature is immediately changed to a third set temperature even though the user has changed it to the second set temperature.

[0213] (Technology 8) The air conditioning system according to Technology 7 includes a determination unit that determines a target set temperature for the air conditioner based on factors related to the setting of the set temperature for the air conditioner, and a target temperature setting unit that sets the set temperature for the air conditioner to the target set temperature for the air conditioner determined by the determination unit when a second predetermined period longer than the first predetermined period has elapsed since the set temperature for the air conditioner was changed from the first set temperature to the second set temperature. According to this, by determining the target temperature based on factors related to the setting of the set temperature for the air conditioner, the target temperature can be set to a temperature that is unlikely to cause discomfort to the user. Therefore, the number of times the user changes the set temperature for the air conditioner after the second predetermined period has elapsed can be reduced. Therefore, the set temperature for the air conditioner can be changed while suppressing an increase in energy consumption by the air conditioner due to a change in the set temperature.

[0214] (Technology 9) The air conditioning system according to Technology 8, wherein the factor is the number of times the set temperature of the air conditioner has been changed, and the determination unit determines the target set temperature of the air conditioner based on the number of times the set temperature of the air conditioner has been changed. According to this, by determining the target temperature based on the number of times the set temperature of the air conditioner has been changed, the target temperature can be set to a temperature that is less likely to cause discomfort to the user. This further reduces the number of times the user changes the set temperature of the air conditioner after the second predetermined period has elapsed. This makes it possible to change the set temperature of the air conditioner while suppressing an increase in energy consumption of the air conditioner due to changes in the set temperature.

[0215] (Technology 10) A control method for an air conditioning system that conditions a conditioned space using an air conditioning device, the control method including: a first step of determining whether or not to reduce an amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device after a user changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from a first set temperature to a second set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature; and a second step of changing the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the second set temperature to a third set temperature if the first step determines that the amount of change should be reduced, wherein the third set temperature is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature and more energy-saving than the second set temperature. This control method for an air conditioning system provides the same effects as the air conditioning system described in Technology 1.

[0216] (Technology 11) A program that causes a processor included in an air conditioning system that conditions a conditioned space using an air conditioning device to function as a determination unit that determines whether or not to reduce the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device after a user changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from a first set temperature to a second set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature, and as a change unit that changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the second set temperature to a third set temperature if the determination unit determines that the amount of change should be reduced, wherein the third set temperature is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature and more energy-saving than the second set temperature. This achieves the same effects as the air conditioning system described in Technology 1.

[0217] As described above, the air conditioning system, the control method for an air conditioning system, and the program according to the present invention can be used to change the set temperature of an air conditioner.

[0218] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Air conditioning device 2 Terminal device 3 Management server 4 Weather server 11 Indoor unit 12 Outdoor unit 13 Remote control 14 Communication device 30 Server control device 31 Server communication device 111 First indoor unit communication unit 112 Second indoor unit communication unit 300 Server processor (processor) 301 Communication control unit 302 Determination unit 303 Change unit 304 Acquisition unit 305 Update unit 306 Decision unit 307 Target temperature setting unit 310 Server memory (storage unit) 311, 311A ​​Control program (program) 312 Management DB 1000 Air conditioning system AD Collected data H Facility MD Management data MD1 First management data MD2 Second management data MSD Target temperature data NW Network P Administrator RD Operation data S Air-conditioned space SA4 Step (1st step) SA5 Step (2nd step) SD Setting data

Claims

1. An air conditioning system that conditions a conditioned space using an air conditioning device, comprising: a judgment unit that judges whether or not the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device should be reduced after a user changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from a first set temperature to a second set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature; and a change unit that changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the second set temperature to a third set temperature when the judgment unit judges that the amount of change should be reduced, wherein the third set temperature is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature and is more energy-saving than the second set temperature.

2. The air conditioning system of claim 1, wherein the judgment unit judges that the change amount should not be reduced when a first condition is met, the first condition being that the difference between the first set temperature and the second set temperature is less than or equal to a predetermined value, and the change unit does not change the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the second set temperature when the judgment unit judges that the change amount should not be reduced.

3. The air conditioning system of claim 1, wherein the judgment unit judges that the change amount should not be reduced when a second condition is met, the second condition being that a user has changed the set temperature of the air conditioning device from a first set temperature to a second set temperature while the thermostat is off, and the change unit does not change the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the second set temperature when the judgment unit judges that the change amount should not be reduced.

4. The air conditioning system of claim 1, wherein the judgment unit judges that the change amount should not be reduced if a third condition is met, the third condition being that the second set temperature changed by the user is a set temperature that is more energy-saving than the set temperature targeted by the air conditioning device, and the change unit does not change the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the second set temperature if the judgment unit judges that the change amount should not be reduced.

5. The air conditioning system of claim 1, wherein the judgment unit judges whether a fourth condition is met, the fourth condition being that after the set temperature of the air conditioning device is changed to the third set temperature, the user changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device to a set temperature that is more energy-intensive than the third set temperature, and when the judgment unit judges that the fourth condition is met, the change unit does not change the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the set temperature set by the user.

6. The air conditioning system of claim 1, wherein, when the determination unit determines that the amount of change should be reduced, the change unit calculates the third set temperature from the first set temperature and the second set temperature based on a predetermined rule, and when the calculated third set temperature is a set temperature that is more energy-saving than the set temperature targeted by the air conditioning device, determines the third set temperature to be the set temperature targeted by the air conditioning device, and changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the second set temperature to the determined third set temperature.

7. An air conditioning system as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the judgment unit judges whether the amount of change should be reduced when a first predetermined period has elapsed since a user changed the set temperature of the air conditioning device to the second set temperature.

8. An air conditioning system as described in claim 7, comprising: a determination unit that determines the set temperature that the air conditioning device aims to achieve based on factors related to setting the set temperature of the air conditioning device; and a target temperature setting unit that sets the set temperature of the air conditioning device to the set temperature that the air conditioning device aims to achieve determined by the determination unit when a second predetermined period that is longer than the first predetermined period has elapsed since the set temperature of the air conditioning device was changed from the first set temperature to the second set temperature.

9. The air conditioning system of claim 8, wherein the element is the number of times the set temperature of the air conditioning device has been changed, and the determination unit determines the target set temperature of the air conditioning device based on the number of times the set temperature has been changed.

10. A control method for an air conditioning system that conditions a conditioned space using an air conditioning device, comprising: a first step of determining whether or not the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device should be reduced after a user changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from a first set temperature to a second set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature; and a second step of changing the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the second set temperature to a third set temperature if the first step determines that the amount of change should be reduced, wherein the third set temperature is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature and more energy-saving than the second set temperature.

11. A program that causes a processor of an air conditioning system that conditions a conditioned space using an air conditioning device to function as: a judgment unit that determines whether or not the amount of change in the set temperature of the air conditioning device should be reduced after a user changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from a first set temperature to a second set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature; and a change unit that changes the set temperature of the air conditioning device from the second set temperature to a third set temperature when the judgment unit determines that the amount of change should be reduced, wherein the third set temperature is a set temperature that is more energy-increasing than the first set temperature and more energy-saving than the second set temperature.

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