JP2009257602A - Mediation device for air-conditioning control, air-conditioning control system, air-conditioning control method and air-conditioning control program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an environment capable of utilizing an air conditioner of invertor control which is newly introduced, by using an existing general-purpose thermostat to efficiently provide a comfortable air- conditioning environment. <P>SOLUTION: This mediation devices 40a-40c, for air-conditioning control, respectively connected to air-conditioning interfaces 30a-30c changing a contact to ON or OFF on the basis of a first room temperature value detected by a self-temperature sensor, and a set temperature set to itself, and mediating the air conditioners 10, 20a-20c and the air-conditioning interfaces, comprises a detecting section 44a for detecting the change of the contact, a memorizing section 42 for storing the temperature information; and an air-conditioning target temperature value deciding section 44d for deciding an air-conditioning target temperature value to operate the air conditioner, and the air-conditioning target temperature value deciding section performs the first decision processing for deciding the air-conditioning target temperature value, based on the temperature information, when the change of the contact is detected several times within a prescribed time. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an air conditioning control intermediary device, an air conditioning control system, an air conditioning control method, and an air conditioning control program.

  Conventionally, the use of general-purpose thermostats as man-machine interfaces (controllers) for air conditioners has become the de facto standard, especially in US homes or office buildings. Devices and fans are controlled to efficiently realize a comfortable air-conditioning environment (for example, Patent Document 1). In the air conditioning system in the United States, many air conditioners that turn on and off a compressor that is a heat source are used, and the thermostat compares the input set temperature with the room temperature value, The air conditioner is operated by performing on / off control.

On the other hand, recently, air conditioners that perform fine inverter control of compressors have also appeared. Such an air conditioner requires a set temperature value when performing control. Therefore, an interface dedicated to the air conditioner is prepared instead of a thermostat that cannot output the set temperature value, and the user uses an interface dedicated to the air conditioner. To prompt you to enter the set temperature.
Special table hei 8-505485

  However, when the latest air conditioner that performs inverter control is incorporated in the conventional air conditioning system, an interface dedicated to the air conditioner must be used in addition to the thermostat, which is cumbersome for the user. Even if only the latest air conditioner that controls inverters is installed in a conventional air conditioning system, the user will not be familiar with the conventional thermostat, but will learn how to operate the interface dedicated to the latest air conditioner. And must be used.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an environment in which an inverter-controlled air conditioner newly introduced using an existing general-purpose thermostat can be used in order to efficiently realize a comfortable air-conditioning environment.

  An intermediary device according to a first aspect of the present invention is an intermediary device for air conditioning control that is connected to an air conditioning interface and mediates between an air conditioner and an air conditioning interface, and includes a detection unit, a storage unit, an air conditioning target temperature value determination unit, Is provided. The air conditioning interface changes the contact to ON or OFF based on the first room temperature value detected by its own temperature sensor and the set temperature set for itself. A detection part detects the change of a contact. The storage unit stores temperature information. The air conditioning target temperature value determination unit determines an air conditioning target temperature value for operating the air conditioner. Further, the air conditioning target temperature value determination unit performs a first determination process for determining the air conditioning target temperature value based on the temperature information when a change in the contact is detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time.

  In the mediation apparatus according to the present invention, the change of the contact point is detected by the detection unit, and the temperature information is stored in the storage unit. The air conditioning target temperature value is determined based on the temperature information when a change in the contact is detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time.

  This makes it possible to operate an air conditioner that requires a set temperature value for operation using an existing air conditioning interface.

  An intermediary device according to a second invention is the mediation device according to the first invention, further comprising a timer unit. The timer unit measures the elapsed time after the contact change is detected. Further, the air conditioning target temperature value determination unit performs the first determination process when a change in the contact is detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time which is a time until the elapsed time reaches the first time point.

  In the mediation apparatus according to the present invention, the timer unit measures the elapsed time after the contact change is detected, and a plurality of contact changes occur within a predetermined time which is the time until the elapsed time reaches the first time point. If it is detected once, the first determination process is performed.

  Thereby, an air-conditioning target temperature value can be determined by changing a contact several times within predetermined time.

  An intermediary device according to a third aspect of the present invention is the intermediary device according to the second aspect of the present invention, wherein the temperature information includes information on the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value of the air conditioner. In addition, the air conditioning target temperature value determination unit sets the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value as the air conditioning target temperature value in accordance with the state of the contact detected last among the contact changes detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time. A first determination process that is a determination process is performed.

  In the mediation apparatus according to the present invention, the temperature information includes information on the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value of the air conditioner. In addition, the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value is determined as the air conditioning target temperature value in accordance with the state of the contact point detected last among a plurality of contact point changes detected within a predetermined time. Here, the maximum capacity value of the air conditioner is a temperature value when the air conditioner is controlled with the maximum load, and is a lower limit value of the cooling operation mode and an upper limit value of the heating operation mode. The minimum capacity value is a temperature value when the air conditioner is controlled with the minimum load, and is an upper limit value for the cooling operation mode and a lower limit value for the heating operation mode, or a value for stopping the air conditioning.

  Thereby, the air conditioner can be operated at the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value.

  An intermediary device according to a fourth aspect is the intermediary device according to the third aspect, wherein the air conditioning target temperature value determining unit determines the maximum capacity value as the air conditioning target temperature value when the contact state is ON, When the state is OFF, the minimum capacity value is determined as the air conditioning target temperature value.

  In the intermediary device according to the present invention, the maximum capacity value is determined as the air conditioning target temperature value when the contact state is ON, and the minimum capacity value is determined as the air conditioning target temperature value when the contact state is OFF. .

  Thereby, room temperature can be reached to the desired temperature in a short time.

  An intermediary device according to a fifth invention is the mediation device according to the first invention, wherein the temperature information includes a second room temperature value acquired from the air conditioner. In addition, the air conditioning target temperature value determination unit further performs a second determination process for determining the air conditioning target temperature value using the second room temperature value when a change in the contact is detected.

  In the mediation apparatus according to the present invention, the temperature information includes the second room temperature value acquired from the air conditioner. In addition, a second determination process that is a process of determining the air conditioning target temperature value using the second room temperature value when a change in the contact is detected is further performed.

  Thereby, an air conditioner can be operated using a plurality of determination processes.

  An intermediary apparatus according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is the intermediary apparatus according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, wherein the second room temperature value includes the past second room temperature value acquired from the air conditioner in the past. In addition, the air conditioning target temperature value determination unit calculates a value using an average value of the past second room temperature value and a new second room temperature value acquired from the air conditioner after the past second room temperature value is acquired. A second determination process that is a process of determining the air conditioning target temperature value is performed.

  In the mediation apparatus according to the present invention, the air conditioning target temperature value is determined using an average value of the second room temperature value acquired in the past and the newly acquired second room temperature value.

  Thereby, the air-conditioning control which suppressed intense temperature fluctuations can be performed.

  An intermediary apparatus according to a seventh aspect is the intermediary apparatus according to the third aspect, further comprising a state grasping unit. The state grasping unit grasps the thermo-on state or the thermo-off state that is the operation state of the air conditioner. In addition, the air conditioning target temperature value determination unit detects a change in the new contact after the change in the contact is detected until the elapsed time reaches the first time, and is a time after the first time. A third process that is a process of determining the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value as the air conditioning target temperature value based on the operation state and the state of the contact when a new contact change is not detected before reaching the second time point. Done.

  In the mediation apparatus according to the present invention, the thermo-on state or the thermo-off state, which is the operating state of the air conditioner, is grasped. In addition, when a new contact change is not detected until the second time point is reached after the contact change is detected, the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value is set as the air conditioning target temperature value based on the operation state and the contact state. It is determined.

  Thereby, even when the change of the contact is not detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time, the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value can be commanded to the air conditioner as the air conditioning target temperature value.

  An air conditioning control system according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is an air conditioning control system comprising the intermediary device according to claim 1, an air conditioning interface, and an air conditioner, wherein the air conditioning interface is mediated by the mediation device connected to the air conditioner. Is done. The air conditioner performs air conditioning control based on the air conditioning target temperature value transmitted from the intermediary device.

  In the air conditioning control system according to the present invention, the change of the contact point is detected in the intermediary device, and the temperature information is stored in the storage unit. Further, when a change in the contact is detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time, the air conditioning target temperature value is determined based on the temperature information. Furthermore, the air conditioning target temperature value determined in the mediation device is transmitted to the air conditioner.

  This makes it possible to operate an air conditioner that requires a set temperature value for operation using an existing air conditioning interface.

  An air conditioning control method according to a ninth aspect of the present invention is an air conditioning control method for controlling an air conditioner using an air conditioning interface, and includes a first step to a third step. The air conditioning interface changes the contact to ON or OFF based on the first room temperature value detected by its own temperature sensor and the set temperature set for itself. In the first step, a contact change is detected. In the second step, temperature information is stored. In the third step, an air conditioning target temperature value for operating the air conditioner is determined. Further, in the third step, the air conditioning target temperature value is determined based on the temperature information when a change in the contact is detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time.

  In the air conditioning control method according to the present invention, the change of the contact is detected and the temperature information is stored. Further, when a change in the contact is detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time, the air conditioning target temperature value is determined based on the temperature information.

  This makes it possible to operate an air conditioner that requires a set temperature value for operation using an existing air conditioning interface.

  An air conditioning control program according to a tenth aspect of the invention is an air conditioning control program for causing a computer to execute control of an air conditioner using an air conditioning interface, and includes first to third steps. The air conditioning interface changes the contact to ON or OFF based on the first room temperature value detected by its own temperature sensor and the set temperature set for itself. In the first step, a contact change is detected. In the second step, temperature information is stored. In the third step, an air conditioning target temperature value for operating the air conditioner is determined. Further, in the third step, the air conditioning target temperature value is determined based on the temperature information when a change in the contact is detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time.

  In the air conditioning control program according to the present invention, a change in contact is detected and temperature information is stored. Further, when a change in the contact is detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time, the air conditioning target temperature value is determined based on the temperature information.

  This makes it possible to operate an air conditioner that requires a set temperature value for operation using an existing air conditioning interface.

  In the mediation apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention, an air conditioner that requires a set temperature value for operation can be operated using an existing air conditioning interface.

  In the mediation apparatus according to the second aspect of the present invention, the air conditioning target temperature value can be determined by changing the contact multiple times within a predetermined time.

  In the intermediary device according to the third aspect of the invention, the air conditioner can be operated at the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value.

  In the intermediary device according to the fourth invention, the room temperature can be reached in a short time at the desired temperature.

  In the intermediary device according to the fifth aspect of the invention, the air conditioner can be operated using the air conditioning target temperature value determined by a plurality of methods.

  In the intermediary device according to the sixth aspect of the invention, air conditioning control can be performed while suppressing severe temperature fluctuations.

  In the intermediary device according to the seventh aspect of the invention, the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value can be commanded to the air conditioner as the air conditioning target temperature value even when a change in the contact is not detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time.

  In the air conditioning control system according to the eighth aspect of the invention, an air conditioner that requires a set temperature value for operation can be operated using an existing air conditioning interface.

  In the air conditioning control method according to the ninth aspect of the invention, an air conditioner that requires a set temperature value for operation can be operated using an existing air conditioning interface.

  In the air conditioning control program according to the tenth aspect of the invention, an air conditioner that requires a set temperature value for operation can be operated using an existing air conditioning interface.

<< First Embodiment >>
<Overall configuration of air conditioning system>
FIG. 1 shows a configuration of an air conditioning system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The air-conditioning system 1 is an air-conditioning system used in a building (property) such as a house or an office building, for example. The air-conditioning system mainly includes an outdoor unit 10 and indoor units 20a-20c, and an interface for air-conditioning control. It is composed of general-purpose thermostats 30a-30c and intermediary devices 40a-40c to be used.

  The outdoor unit 10 and the indoor units 20a to 20c are connected via a refrigerant path 88 and a communication line 81. The indoor units 20a-20c are communicably connected to the intermediary devices 40a-40c via the communication line 82. The two types of communication lines 81 and 82 may be the same type of communication line or different types of communication lines. Further, the intermediary devices 40 a-40 c are connected to the thermostats 30 a-30 c by the control line 83. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, the intermediary devices 40a-40c and the thermostats 30a-30c are connected to the indoor units 20a-20c on a one-to-one basis. In this embodiment, thermostat 30a-30c controls indoor unit 20a-20c connected to each via mediation apparatus 40a-40c.

<Configuration of each part>
(1) Configuration of Thermostat 30a-30c First, the thermostat 30a-30c will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 2 shows an example of the display unit of the thermostat 30a-30c. Thermostats 30a-30c are often used in the United States as interfaces for air conditioners, gas furnaces, fans, and the like. On / off control functions, temperature setting functions, and air conditioning functions of devices connected to thermostats 30a-30c It has a setting function, a dehumidification setting function, a fan on / off setting function, and the like. Further, the thermostats 30a to 30c are capable of schedule control of connected devices. FIG. 3 is a table showing signals output from the thermostats 30a to 30c. In the present embodiment, the intermediary devices 40a-40c described later convert these signals into signals that can be read by the air conditioner and transmit them to the air conditioner.

  The thermostats 30a to 30c have a set temperature input section and a temperature sensor that detects the room temperature. The thermostats 30a to 30c change the contacts to ON or OFF depending on the relationship between the set temperature and the room temperature (corresponding to the first room temperature value) detected by the temperature sensor. For example, when operating in the cooling operation mode, when the room temperature detected by the temperature sensor becomes higher than the set temperature, the contact is set to ON, and the room temperature detected by the temperature sensor becomes lower than the set temperature. In the case of contact, the contact is set to OFF. Conversely, when operating in the heating operation mode, when the room temperature detected by the temperature sensor becomes lower than the set temperature, the contact is set to ON, and the room temperature detected by the temperature sensor is set to the set temperature. If it becomes higher than that, the contact is set to OFF. The thermostats 30a-30c used in the present embodiment can set a differential temperature, and when the room temperature detected by the temperature sensor exceeds the differential temperature, the contact changes to ON or OFF.

(2) Schematic configuration of air conditioner Next, an air conditioner used in the air conditioning system 1 of the present embodiment will be described.

  The air conditioner used in the present embodiment is a multi-type heat pump air conditioner, and the outdoor unit 10 and the indoor units 20a to 20c are connected by a refrigerant path 88 and a communication line 81. The indoor units 20a-20c are provided with suction temperature sensors 21a-21c that detect a suction temperature value (corresponding to a second room temperature value) that is the temperature of the indoor air sucked into the casing. Hereinafter, although the air conditioner which consists of the outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20a is demonstrated, suppose that it is the structure similar to the indoor unit 20a also about the other indoor units 20b and 20c.

  The air conditioner according to the present embodiment adjusts the rotational speed of the compressor and the opening of the indoor expansion valve in a stepwise manner according to the set temperature value, thereby allowing the refrigerant sent from the outdoor unit 10 to the indoor unit 20a to flow. adjust. The indoor unit 20a is controlled so that the thermo-OFF and the thermo-ON operation are automatically repeated, and the indoor environment is maintained in the vicinity of the set temperature value. Here, the thermo OFF means a state in which the cooling operation and the heating operation are stopped. Specifically, it refers to a state in which an operation of only blowing that does not flow the refrigerant or a low load operation that slightly flows the refrigerant is performed. On the other hand, the thermo-ON means a state where a cooling operation or a heating operation is being performed. Specifically, it refers to a state in which the fan is operated and the refrigerant flow rate and the like are adjusted so that the room temperature approaches the set temperature. In the air conditioner according to the present embodiment, when the suction temperature value becomes 1.0 ° C. or less of the set temperature value during the cooling operation and when the set temperature value becomes 1.0 ° C. or more during the heating operation, the indoor unit 20a Switches from thermo-ON operation to thermo-OFF operation. On the other hand, when the suction temperature value becomes 1.0 ° C. or more during the cooling operation or when the suction temperature value becomes 1.0 ° C. or less during the heating operation, the operation is switched from the thermo OFF operation to the thermo ON operation. Switch.

(3) Schematic configuration of mediation devices 40a-40c Next, the mediation devices 40a-40c will be described. The intermediary devices 40a-40c convert various signals input from one thermostat 30a-30c connected thereto into signals that can be read by the air conditioner, and one indoor unit 20a connected to each converted signal. Send to -20c. Further, the intermediary device 40a-40c determines the air conditioning target temperature value using the signal input from the thermostat 30a-30c and the suction temperature value detected by the suction temperature sensors 21a-21c, and the air conditioning target temperature value is determined. It transmits to the indoor unit 20a-20c connected to each as preset temperature value. Hereinafter, the configuration of the mediation device 40a will be described with reference to FIG. 4, but the other mediation devices 40b and 40c have the same configuration.

  The intermediary device 40a mainly includes a communication unit 41, a storage unit 42, a timer unit 43, and a control unit 44. The communication unit 41 includes an input / output port, inputs various signals from the thermostat 30a and the indoor unit 20a, and outputs control signals to the air conditioner.

  The storage unit 42 stores a control program used to determine an air conditioning target temperature value to be described later. The storage unit 42 includes a suction temperature value storage area 42a, an air conditioning target temperature value storage area 42b, and a limit value storage area 42c.

  The suction temperature value storage area 42a stores a suction temperature value acquired by a suction temperature value acquisition unit 44c described later. In the present embodiment, in the suction temperature value storage area 42a, the upper limit value (32 ° C.) of the cooling operation mode and the lower limit value (16 ° C.) of the heating operation mode are stored in advance as initial values. The value (stored value M) stored in the suction temperature value storage area 42a is overwritten by the new suction temperature value each time a new suction temperature value is acquired by the suction temperature value acquisition unit 44c.

  The air conditioning target temperature value storage area 42b is an average value A calculated using the suction temperature value among the values determined as the air conditioning target temperature value by the air conditioning target temperature value determination unit 44d described later, Is stored as a set temperature value. The value (stored value S) stored in the air conditioning target temperature value storage area 42b is overwritten by the new air conditioning target temperature value every time the average value A is determined as a new air conditioning target temperature value.

  The limit value storage area 42c stores predetermined lower limit values and upper limit values for the cooling operation mode and the heating operation mode, respectively. Here, the lower limit value of the cooling operation mode and the upper limit value of the heating operation mode are temperature values (maximum capacity values) when the air conditioner is controlled with the maximum load, and the upper limit value of the cooling operation mode and the heating operation mode The lower limit value is a temperature value (minimum capacity value) when the air conditioner is controlled with a minimum load. In the present embodiment, the lower limit value of the cooling operation mode is 16 ° C., the upper limit value of the heating operation mode is 32 ° C., the upper limit value of the cooling operation mode is 32 ° C., and the lower limit value of the heating operation mode is 16 ° C. .

  The timer unit 43 counts the elapsed time after the change in the contact point of the thermostat 30a-30c is detected. Specifically, the timer unit 43 counts the elapsed time starting from the time when the contact change of the thermostat 30a-30c is detected. In addition, the timer unit 43 restarts the time count when the contact change is detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time.

  The control unit 44 includes a CPU and the like, and mainly includes a detection unit 44a, a state grasping unit 44b, a suction temperature value acquisition unit 44c, an air conditioning target temperature value determination unit 44d, a signal conversion unit 44e, and a transmission. 44f.

  The detection unit 44a detects a change in the contact point of the thermostat 30a connected to the mediation device 40a. In the present embodiment, it is detected whether the Y1 (compressor) signal is set to ON or OFF, and whether it is changed to ON or OFF. At this time, the cooling operation mode and the heating operation mode are distinguished based on the O (cooling) signal and the B (heating) signal output from the thermostat 30a. Specifically, the O signal is ON in the cooling operation mode, and the B signal is ON in the heating operation mode.

  The state grasping unit 44b acquires a signal (thermo signal) indicating whether the indoor unit 20a is operating with the thermo-ON or the thermo-OFF from the indoor unit 20a, and the operating state of the indoor unit 20a To figure out.

  The suction temperature value acquisition unit 44c acquires the suction temperature value (corresponding to the second room temperature value) detected by the suction temperature sensor 21a from the indoor unit 20a. The suction temperature value acquired by the suction temperature value acquisition unit 44c is overwritten on the suction temperature value storage area 42a.

  The air conditioning target temperature value determination unit 44d determines an air conditioning target temperature value for operating the indoor unit 20a. Specifically, the air conditioning target temperature value determination unit 44d determines the air conditioning target temperature value based on the change of the contact. First, the air conditioning target temperature value determination unit 44d calculates an average value A of the suction temperature value acquired when a change in the Y1 signal is detected and the stored value M stored in the suction temperature value storage area 42a. (Second determination process). The average value A is determined as the air conditioning target temperature value after being compared with the stored value S stored in the air conditioning target temperature value storage area 42b.

  Further, the air conditioning target temperature value determination unit 44d is a case where the change in the Y1 signal is not detected until the time measured by the timer unit 43 has elapsed for 15 minutes after the change in the Y1 signal has been detected. If the state of the thermo signal does not match the state of the thermo signal, the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value stored in the limit value storage area 42c is determined as the air conditioning target temperature value based on the state of the Y1 signal (third determination). processing). For example, when the state of the Y1 signal is ON, the maximum capacity value (the lower limit value during cooling operation and the upper limit value during heating operation) is determined as the air conditioning target temperature value, and when the Y1 signal state is OFF The minimum capacity value (the upper limit value during cooling operation and the lower limit value during heating operation) is determined as the air conditioning target temperature value.

  Further, the air conditioning target temperature value determination unit 44d stores a limit value according to the state of the last detected Y1 signal when a change in the Y1 signal is detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time (for example, within 30 seconds). The maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value stored in the area 42c is determined as the air conditioning target temperature value (first determination process). For example, when the Y1 signal is stable when ON, the maximum capacity value (the lower limit value during cooling operation and the upper limit value during heating operation) is determined as the air conditioning target temperature value, and when the Y1 signal is stable when OFF The minimum capacity value (the upper limit value during cooling operation and the lower limit value during heating operation) is determined as the air conditioning target temperature value.

  This will be described in more detail in the section <Control method for air conditioner> below.

  The signal converter 44e converts the output signal of the thermostat 30a shown in FIG. 3 into a signal that can be read by the air conditioner. In the present embodiment, the signal G (fan) is converted into an operation / stop command, and the other signals B (heating), W1 (heater), O (cooling), Y1 (compressor), and DHM (dehumidification) are respectively From the signal pattern, the operation mode (cooling operation mode / heating operation mode) is determined and converted into a signal of an operation mode readable by the air conditioner.

  The transmission unit 44f transmits the signal converted by the signal conversion unit 44e, the air conditioning stop command of the indoor unit 20a, and the like to the indoor unit 20a via the communication unit 41 described above. Moreover, the transmission part 44f is a value determined as an air-conditioning target temperature value, Comprising: The stored value S memorize | stored in the air-conditioning target temperature value storage area 42b is transmitted to the indoor unit 20a as a setting temperature value.

<Control method of air conditioner>
Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the control method at the time of air_conditioning | cooling operation of the air conditioning machine by the intermediary apparatus 40a-40c is demonstrated in detail. In the following description, a control method for controlling the indoor unit 20a using the thermostat 30a and the mediating device 40a will be described. However, when the indoor unit 20b is controlled using the thermostat 30b and the mediating device 40b, The same applies to the case where the indoor unit 20c is controlled using the thermostat 30c and the intermediary device 40c.

  First, in step S101, it is determined whether or not a change in the Y1 signal is detected by the detection unit 44a. If no change in the Y1 signal is detected in step S101, the process waits until a change in the Y1 signal is detected. On the other hand, when a change in the Y1 signal is detected in step S101, the process proceeds to step S102, and the timer unit 43 starts measuring time. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S103. In step S103, the air conditioning target temperature value determination unit 44d stores the stored value M (initial value or previous suction temperature value T) that is stored in the suction temperature value storage area 42a, and the current suction temperature value T. An average value A is calculated. Thereafter, in step S104, it is determined whether or not there is a stored value S in the air conditioning target temperature value storage area 42b. If it is determined in step S104 that there is a stored value S, the process proceeds to step S105. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S104 that there is no stored value S, the process proceeds to step S106. In step S105, it is determined whether or not the difference between the average value A and the stored value S is within 0.5 ° C. If the difference between the average value A and the stored value S is within 0.5 ° C. in step S105, the process proceeds to step S107. If the difference between the average value A and the stored value S exceeds 0.5 ° C. in step S105, the process proceeds to step S106.

  In step S106, the air conditioning target temperature value determination unit 44d determines the average value A as the air conditioning target temperature value, stores the air conditioning target temperature value as the storage value S in the air conditioning target temperature value storage area 42b, and proceeds to step S107. In step S107, the transmission unit 44f transmits the stored value S stored in the air conditioning target temperature value storage area 42b to the indoor unit 20a as a set temperature value. In step S108, the current suction temperature value T is stored in the suction temperature value storage area 42a. When the air conditioning target temperature value is transmitted to the indoor unit 20a in step S107, the indoor unit 20a performs air conditioning control based on the air conditioning target temperature value.

  Next, in step S109, it is determined whether or not a change in the Y1 signal has been detected. If a change in the Y1 signal is detected in step S109, the process proceeds to step S110. In step S110, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time after the change in the previous Y1 signal is detected is within 30 seconds. If it is determined in step S110 that it is not within 30 seconds, the process returns to step S102. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S110 that it is within 30 seconds, the process proceeds to step S111, and the timer unit 43 restarts the time measurement. In step S112, it is determined whether a change in the Y1 signal is detected. If a change in the Y1 signal is detected in step S112, the process returns to step S111. If the change in the Y1 signal is not detected in step S112, the process proceeds to step S113, and it is determined whether or not 30 seconds have elapsed since the change in the Y1 signal was detected first. In step S113, if 30 seconds have not elapsed, the process returns to step S112. In step S113, if 30 seconds have elapsed, the process proceeds to step S114. In step S114, it is determined whether the Y1 signal is ON. In step S114, when the Y1 signal is ON, the process proceeds to step S115, and the lower limit value is commanded to the air conditioner as the set temperature value. In step S114, when the Y1 signal is OFF, the process proceeds to step S116, and the upper limit value is commanded to the air conditioner as the set temperature value.

  On the other hand, if no change in the Y1 signal is detected in step S109, the process proceeds to step S117. In step S117, it is determined whether 15 minutes have elapsed. If it is determined in step S117 that 15 minutes have not elapsed, the process returns to step S109, and if it is determined that 15 minutes have elapsed, the process proceeds to step S118. In step S118, it is determined whether or not the state of the Y1 signal matches the state of the thermo signal. If it is determined in step S118 that the state of the Y1 signal matches the state of the thermo signal, the process waits until the state does not match. If it is determined in step S118 that the state of the Y1 signal does not match the state of the thermo signal, the process proceeds to step S119, and it is determined whether or not a change in the Y1 signal is detected. If a change in the Y1 signal is detected in step S119, the process returns to step S102. If no change in the Y1 signal is detected in step S119, the process proceeds to step S120, and it is determined whether the Y1 signal is ON. When the Y1 signal is ON in step S120, the process proceeds to step S121, and the lower limit value is commanded to the air conditioner as the set temperature value. When the Y1 signal is OFF in step S120, the process proceeds to step S122, and the upper limit value is commanded to the air conditioner as the set temperature value.

<Features>
(1) In the air conditioning system 1 according to the present embodiment, the intermediary devices 40a-40c convert the control signals output from the thermostats 30a-30c into signals that can be read by the air conditioner. Further, the intermediary device 40a-40c sets an air conditioning target temperature value that is an approximate value of the temperature set by the thermostat 30a-30c based on the signal input from the thermostat 30a-30c and the suction temperature value detected by the air conditioner. decide. Since the air conditioning target temperature value is transmitted to the air conditioner as the set temperature value, the air conditioner that requires the set temperature value for operation can be operated using the thermostat 30a-30c. Thereby, even if it is a case where the air conditioner which performs inverter control is newly introduced, thermostat 30a-30c as an air conditioning interface used conventionally can be continuously used as an interface of a new air conditioner.

  In addition, in the United States, there are houses where auxiliary units including a gas furnace unit and a fan unit are arranged in a basement or the like. The gas furnace unit is mainly composed of a gas furnace that burns gas and a gas furnace controller that controls the amount of combustion. The fan unit is mainly composed of a fan such as a sirocco fan and a fan controller. Has been. The gas furnace unit and the fan unit are controlled using thermostats 30a to 30c, and the air in the auxiliary unit is overheated and sent out indoors to control the air conditioning in the room. By introducing the intermediary device 40a-40c according to the present embodiment to the air conditioning system 1, the existing thermostat 30a-30c is used to control both the latest air conditioner that performs inverter control, the gas furnace unit, and the fan unit. can do. Therefore, efficient air-conditioning control can be performed while using the conventional air-conditioning interface without forcing the user to learn a new air-conditioning interface operation method.

  (2) Although the output signals of the thermostats 30a-30c vary depending on the type, the mediating device 40a-40c according to the present embodiment substitutes for the set temperature value using the basic signal output from the thermostat 30a-30c. Therefore, it can be applied to most thermostats 30a-30c.

  (3) The intermediary device 40a-40c according to the present embodiment includes the timer unit 43, the state of the contact signal detected by the detection unit 44a, the state of the thermo signal acquired by the state grasping unit 44b, and the timer unit Control for determining the air conditioning target temperature value is performed again according to the time measured at 43. Thus, even if the set temperature is changed by the user, the air conditioning target temperature value is appropriately determined by an appropriate method, so that the indoor environment desired by the user can be continuously provided.

  (4) In addition, the intermediary devices 40a-40c according to the present embodiment may change the contact multiple times within 30 seconds when no new contact change is detected for 15 minutes after the previous contact change is detected. If detected, it is determined that the set temperature in the thermostat 30a-30c has been changed, and the maximum capacity value for the air conditioner (lower limit value during cooling operation, upper limit value during heating operation) according to the contact state ) Or minimum capacity value (upper limit value during cooling operation, lower limit value during heating operation) is commanded as the set temperature value.

  That is, after a change in the previous Y1 signal is detected, if a new change in the Y1 signal is not detected until a predetermined time elapses, the process waits until the state of the Y1 signal and the state of the thermo signal no longer match. When the state of the Y1 signal and the state of the thermo signal no longer match, if the state of the Y1 signal is ON, the maximum capacity value is the air conditioning target temperature value, and if the state of the Y1 signal is OFF, Let the minimum capacity value be the air conditioning target temperature value. As described above, even when the state of the Y1 signal does not change for a predetermined time, the state of the Y1 signal and the state of the thermo signal are compared as appropriate, so that the temperature set in the thermostat 30a-30c is adjusted. The air conditioner can be operated. Further, by transmitting the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value to the air conditioner according to the state of the Y1 signal in this way, the room temperature can be brought close to the temperature set by the thermostat 30a-30c at an early stage. .

  In addition, when a change in the Y1 signal is detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time, the change in the Y1 signal detected last among the changes in the Y1 signal detected a plurality of times is a change from OFF to ON, and When the Y1 signal is stable when ON, the maximum capacity value is set as the air conditioning target temperature value, the change in the Y1 signal detected last is a change from ON to OFF, and the Y1 signal is stable when OFF. In this case, the minimum capacity value is set as the air conditioning target temperature value. In this case, the air conditioner is controlled to quickly bring the room temperature close to the temperature set in the thermostat 30a-30c without waiting for a predetermined time after the change in the previous Y1 signal is detected. This can also respond to the user's request.

  (5) In the present embodiment, when the air conditioning target temperature value determination unit 44d calculates the average value A, the stored value S stored in the air conditioning target temperature value storage area 42b is compared with the average value A, and the difference is determined. Only when the temperature exceeds 0.5 ° C., the newly calculated average value A is determined as the air conditioning target temperature value, and the air conditioning target temperature value is used to control the indoor units 20a-20c. . Thereby, since it is not necessary to change temperature frequently in indoor unit 20a-20c, the processing load of an air conditioner can be suppressed.

<Modification>
(1) Although the multi-type heat pump air conditioner is used in the present embodiment, a single type heat pump air conditioner may be used. Moreover, it is applicable not only to a heat pump type air conditioner but also to other air conditioners as long as it is an air conditioner controlled by an inverter.

  (2) Although the cooling operation has been described as an example in the present embodiment, the present invention can be similarly applied to the heating operation. In this case, in the heating operation mode, the upper limit value of the heating operation mode is used instead of the lower limit value used in the cooling operation mode, and the lower limit value of the heating operation mode is used instead of the upper limit value used in the cooling operation mode. As described above, the distinction between the cooling operation mode and the heating operation mode is determined based on which of the O signal and the B signal is ON.

  Further, by changing the setting, the signal used in the heating operation mode can be used as the heater control signal (W1) instead of the compressor signal (Y1) of the thermostat 30a-30c. That is, the Y1 signal is used in the cooling operation mode, and the W1 signal is used in the heating operation mode.

  Further, the air conditioning target temperature value may be determined using another output signal as shown in FIG.

  (3) In the air conditioning system according to the present embodiment, each of the indoor units 20a to 20c may include an individual remote controller. When a remote control is set for the indoor units 20a-20c, the control of the indoor units 20a-20c is either an air conditioning target temperature value based on an output signal from the thermostat 30a-30c or a set temperature value input by an individual remote controller One may be selected. Thereby, a comfortable air-conditioning environment can be realized flexibly.

  (4) The air conditioning target temperature value determined by the method according to the present embodiment may be corrected, and the air conditioner may be designed to operate based on the corrected value.

  (5) In this embodiment, it is determined whether or not there is a value (stored value S) stored in the air conditioning target temperature value storage area 42b, but an initial value (for example, 0) is given in advance. It may be determined whether the stored value S is equal to an initial value (for example, 0).

  (6) In the present embodiment, in the intermediary devices 40a-40c, the air conditioning target temperature value is determined using Celsius (° C.), but Fahrenheit (° F.) may be used instead of Celsius. .

  (7) In the air conditioning system 1 according to the present embodiment, the mediation device 40a-40c determines the air conditioning target temperature value using the suction temperature value T detected by the indoor units 20a-20c, but the mediation device 40a-40c Instead of the suction temperature value, the air conditioning target temperature value can also be determined using a value obtained by another temperature sensor grasped by the indoor units 20a-20c. For example, the blowout temperature sensor of the indoor units 20a-20c, the temperature sensor of the remote controller connected to each of the indoor units 20a-20c, the remote sensor that is a temperature sensor provided extending from the main body of the indoor units 20a-20c, etc. The air conditioning target temperature can also be determined by using the value obtained by the above.

  (8) In the present embodiment, when the intermediary device 40a-40c commands the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value to the air conditioner, the upper limit value is transmitted in the cooling operation mode and the lower limit value is transmitted in the heating operation mode as the minimum capacity value. However, a value for stopping the air conditioner may be transmitted as the minimum capacity value. This also allows the room temperature to reach the desired temperature in a short time, as in the above embodiment.

  (9) In this embodiment, a plurality of thermostats 30a-30c and a plurality of mediation devices 40a-40c are connected to the indoor units 20a-20c on a one-to-one basis, and are converted from the thermostats 30a-30c converted by the mediation devices 40a-40c. Individual air conditioning is performed by transmitting a control signal to one indoor unit 20a-20c connected to each, but as shown in FIG. 7, the thermostat 30 and the intermediary device 40 are respectively in the property. One unit may be installed, the control signal from the thermostat 30 may be converted by the mediation device 40, and the converted control signal may be transmitted to the indoor units 20a to 20c. In this case, the thermostat 30 can be used to perform centralized control of the plurality of indoor units 20a-20c. Further, in the air conditioning system in which one thermostat 30 and one intermediary device 40 are provided in the property, as shown in FIG. 8, the control signal from the thermostat 30 is converted by the intermediary device 40, and the converted control signal is converted into the outdoor unit. 10 may be transmitted. Also in this case, the central control of the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20c can be performed using the thermostat 30. In addition, when controlling the several indoor unit 20a-20c with the one thermostat 30, the thermo signal of the indoor unit set as a representative machine is acquired as a thermo signal of the indoor unit 20a-20c.

<Other embodiments>
As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was described based on drawing, a specific structure is not restricted to these embodiment, It can change in the range which does not deviate from the summary of invention.

  The present invention has an effect of providing an environment in which an inverter-controlled air conditioner newly introduced using an existing general-purpose thermostat can be used in order to efficiently realize a comfortable air-conditioning environment. It is useful as an intermediary device, an air conditioning control system, an air conditioning control method, and an air conditioning control program.

It is a general-view figure of the air-conditioning control system concerning this embodiment. It is an example of the thermostat which concerns on this embodiment. It is a figure which shows the control signal output from the thermostat which concerns on this embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the mediation apparatus which concerns on this embodiment. It is a figure which shows the control method of the air conditioner which concerns on this embodiment. It is a figure which shows the control method of the air conditioner which concerns on this embodiment. It is an external view of the air-conditioning control system which concerns on the modification (9) of this embodiment. It is an external view of the air-conditioning control system which concerns on the modification (9) of this embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Air conditioning control system 10 Outdoor unit 20a-20c Indoor unit 30a-30c Thermostat (air conditioning interface)
40a-40c Intermediary device 81, 82 Communication line 88 Refrigerant path

Claims (10)

The air conditioner (10, 20a-20c) is connected to the air conditioning interface (30a-30c) for changing the contact point to ON or OFF based on the first room temperature value detected by its own temperature sensor and the set temperature set by itself. And an air conditioning control device (40a-40c) for mediating between the air conditioning interface and the air conditioning interface,
A detection unit (44a) for detecting a change in the contact;
A storage unit (42) for storing temperature information;
An air conditioning target temperature value determining unit (44d) for determining an air conditioning target temperature value for operating the air conditioner;
With
The air conditioning target temperature value determination unit performs a first determination process for determining the air conditioning target temperature value based on the temperature information when a change in the contact is detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time.
Mediation device. A timer unit (43) for measuring an elapsed time after the change of the contact is detected;
The air conditioning target temperature value determination unit performs the first determination process when a change in the contact is detected a plurality of times within the predetermined time which is the time until the elapsed time reaches the first time point.
The mediation apparatus according to claim 1. The temperature information includes information on the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value of the air conditioner,
The air conditioning target temperature value determination unit determines the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value as the air conditioning target according to the state of the last detected contact among the contact changes detected a plurality of times within the predetermined time. Performing the first determination process, which is a process for determining the temperature value;
The intermediary device according to claim 2. The air conditioning target temperature value determination unit determines the maximum capacity value as the air conditioning target temperature value when the contact state is ON, and sets the minimum capacity value as the air conditioning target temperature value when the contact state is OFF. decide,
The intermediary device according to claim 3. The temperature information includes a second room temperature value acquired from an air conditioner,
The air conditioning target temperature value determination unit further performs a second determination process of determining the air conditioning target temperature value using the second room temperature value when a change in the contact is detected.
The mediation apparatus according to claim 1. The second room temperature value includes a past second room temperature value acquired from the air conditioner in the past,
The air conditioning target temperature value determination unit uses an average value of the past second room temperature value and a new second room temperature value acquired from the air conditioner after the past second room temperature value is acquired. Performing the second determination process, which is a process of determining a value as the air conditioning target temperature value,
The intermediary device according to claim 5. A state grasping unit (44b) for grasping a thermo-on state or a thermo-off state that is an operation state of the air conditioner;
The air-conditioning target temperature value determination unit detects a change in the new contact until the elapsed time reaches the first time after the change in the contact is detected, and a time after the first time If a new contact change is not detected until the second time point is reached, the maximum capacity value or the minimum capacity value is determined as the air conditioning target temperature value based on the operation state and the contact state. Further performing the third process,
The intermediary device according to claim 3. An intermediary device (40a-40c) according to claim 1,
An air conditioning interface (30a-30c) through which the connection with the air conditioner is mediated by the intermediary device;
An air conditioner (10, 20a-20c) that performs air conditioning control based on the air conditioning target temperature value transmitted from the intermediary device;
An air conditioning control system. Air conditioner (10, 20a-20c) using an air conditioning interface (30a-30c) that changes the contact point to ON or OFF based on the first room temperature value detected by its own temperature sensor and the set temperature set by itself An air conditioning control method for controlling
A first step of detecting a change in the contact;
A second step of storing temperature information;
A third step of determining an air conditioning target temperature value for operating the air conditioner;
With
In the third step, the air conditioning target temperature value is determined based on the temperature information when a change in the contact is detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time.
Air conditioning control method. Air conditioner (10, 20a-20c) using an air conditioning interface (30a-30c) that changes the contact point to ON or OFF based on the first room temperature value detected by its own temperature sensor and the set temperature set by itself An air conditioning control program for causing a computer to control
A first step of detecting a change in the contact;
A second step of storing temperature information;
A third step of determining an air conditioning target temperature value for operating the air conditioner;
With
In the third step, the air conditioning target temperature value is determined based on the temperature information when a change in the contact is detected a plurality of times within a predetermined time.
Air conditioning control program.

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