JP2018071885A - Air-conditioning indoor unit - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an air-conditioning indoor unit that can easily eliminate temperature unevenness in an air-conditioned space during cooling and can exhibit excellent comfort of the air-conditioned space.SOLUTION: An air-conditioning indoor unit includes: a casing having a suction port and a blowout port; an indoor heat exchanger for exchanging heat with air sucked from the suction port to deprive air of heat; an indoor fan for blowing out air that has undergone heat exchange by using the indoor heat exchanger from the blowout port; a wind direction changeover mechanism; and a changeover mechanism control section. The wind direction changeover mechanism switches a wind direction of blowout air blown out from the blowout port at least between a first direction and a second direction. The first direction is a horizontal or approximately horizontal direction. The second direction is a vertical downward or approximately vertical downward direction. When the blowout air is being blown out in the first direction, if generation of temperature unevenness in an air-conditioned space is detected or estimated, the changeover mechanism control section controls operation of the wind direction changeover mechanism so that the blowout air is temporarily blown out in the second direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

  The present invention relates to an air conditioning indoor unit.

  For example, as in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2013-075530), air that has been deprived of heat by a heat exchanger is blown out in a horizontal direction or a direction close to the horizontal direction to cool an air-conditioning target space. The machine is known. By blowing air from the air-conditioning indoor unit in the horizontal direction or in a direction close to the horizontal direction, a circulating airflow is generated in the air-conditioning target space, so that the entire air-conditioning target space is easily air-conditioned.

  However, when air is blown out from the air conditioning indoor unit in the horizontal direction or in a direction close to the horizontal direction, the air blown out from the air conditioning indoor unit is unlikely to reach the vicinity immediately below the air conditioning indoor unit. Therefore, temperature unevenness may occur in the air conditioning target space, and there is room for improvement in terms of comfort.

  The subject of this invention is providing the air-conditioning indoor unit which can implement | achieve the outstanding comfort of the air-conditioning object space which is easy to eliminate the temperature nonuniformity of the air-conditioning object space during cooling.

  An air conditioning indoor unit according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a casing, a heat exchanger, a fan, a wind direction switching mechanism, and a switching mechanism control unit. The casing is provided with an inlet and an outlet. The heat exchanger exchanges heat with air sucked from the suction port, and takes heat from the air. A fan blows out the air heat-exchanged with the heat exchanger from a blower outlet. A wind direction switching mechanism switches the wind direction of the blowing air which blows off from a blower outlet at least between a 1st direction and a 2nd direction. The first direction is horizontal or nearly horizontal. The second direction is a direction that is vertically downward or close to vertical downward. When the switching mechanism control unit detects or estimates that temperature unevenness occurs in the air-conditioning target space when the blown air is blown out in the first direction, the wind direction is temporarily blown out in the second direction. Controls the operation of the switching mechanism.

  The air conditioning indoor unit according to the first aspect of the present invention detects temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space when air is blown out in the first direction (horizontal or near horizontal) and air conditioning is performed (including dehumidification). If estimated, air is blown out in the second direction (vertically downward or in a direction close to vertical downward). As a result, the air-conditioned air is supplied to the vicinity of the vertically lower part of the air-conditioning indoor unit that is difficult for the blown air to reach when the air is blown in the first direction. Excellent comfort in the target space can be realized.

  An air conditioning indoor unit according to a second aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit according to the first aspect, and further includes a temperature unevenness detection sensor for detecting temperature unevenness and a temperature unevenness detection unit. The temperature unevenness detection unit detects that temperature unevenness occurs in the air conditioning target space based on the measurement result of the temperature unevenness detection sensor. The switching mechanism control unit controls the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism so that the blowing air is temporarily blown in the second direction based on the detection result of the temperature unevenness detection unit when the blowing air is blowing in the first direction.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the second aspect of the present invention, the occurrence of temperature unevenness can be accurately detected based on the measurement result of the sensor, and the temperature unevenness can be eliminated by controlling the direction of the blown air.

  The air conditioning indoor unit according to the third aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit according to the second aspect, and the air conditioning indoor unit is a wall-hanging type. The temperature unevenness detection sensor includes a first temperature sensor. The first temperature sensor measures the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the third aspect of the present invention, temperature unevenness is detected based on the measurement result of the first temperature sensor that measures the temperature below the wall-mounted air conditioning indoor unit. It is easy to detect.

  The air conditioning indoor unit according to the fourth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit according to the third aspect, and the temperature unevenness detection sensor further includes a second temperature sensor. A 2nd temperature sensor measures the temperature of the air-conditioning object space away from the wall in which the air-conditioning indoor unit was installed. A temperature nonuniformity detection part detects the temperature nonuniformity of air-conditioning object space based on the comparison result of the measured value of a 1st temperature sensor, and the measured value of a 2nd temperature sensor.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the temperature unevenness is based on the measurement result of the temperature of the air conditioning target space at a position away from the wall where the air conditioning indoor unit is installed and the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit. Since it is detected, it is easy to detect accurately without missing the temperature unevenness.

  An air conditioning indoor unit according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit according to the third aspect, and the temperature unevenness detection unit is provided in the air conditioning target space based on a change over time of the temperature measured by the first temperature sensor. Detects temperature unevenness.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, only the first temperature sensor that measures the temperature below the wall-mounted air conditioning indoor unit is used, that is, the temperature unevenness is detected with a relatively simple configuration, and the blown air The temperature unevenness can be eliminated by controlling the wind direction.

  An air conditioning indoor unit according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, and further includes a temperature unevenness estimation unit. The temperature unevenness estimation unit estimates that the temperature unevenness is generated in the air-conditioning target space when the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction exceeds the first time. The switching mechanism control unit controls the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism so that the blowing air is temporarily blown in the second direction based on the estimation result by the temperature unevenness estimation unit when the blowing air is blowing in the first direction.

  In the air conditioner indoor unit according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the occurrence of temperature unevenness is appropriately estimated based on the characteristic that temperature unevenness is likely to occur directly under the air conditioner indoor unit when air is blown in the first direction. It is possible to eliminate the occurrence of temperature unevenness and to suppress the occurrence of temperature unevenness.

  Even if the air conditioning indoor unit has a temperature unevenness detection sensor, there may be a case where temperature unevenness occurs at a position where measurement is difficult with the temperature unevenness detection sensor depending on the situation. However, here, since the occurrence of temperature unevenness is estimated when the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction for a long time, even if the temperature unevenness of the air-conditioning target space is difficult to detect by the sensor, the temperature unevenness is reduced. Can be resolved.

  An air conditioning indoor unit according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit according to any of the first to sixth aspects, further comprising a space temperature sensor, a space humidity sensor, and a control permission unit. . The space temperature sensor detects the temperature of the air-conditioning target space. The space humidity sensor detects the humidity of the air-conditioning target space. The control permission unit permits the switching mechanism control unit to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism. When the temperature detected by the space temperature sensor is equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature and the humidity detected by the space humidity sensor is equal to or lower than the predetermined humidity for a second time or longer, the control permission unit It is permitted to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism so that air blows in the second direction.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, priority is given to blowing out air in the first direction in which a circulating airflow is easily generated in the air conditioning target space until the temperature and humidity of the air conditioning target space satisfy predetermined conditions. As a result, on the premise of ensuring the comfort of the entire air-conditioning space, it is possible to eliminate the occurrence of temperature unevenness and further improve the comfort.

  The air conditioner indoor unit according to the eighth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioner indoor unit according to the seventh aspect, and the control permission unit is configured so that the air conditioner indoor unit starts blowing air blown in the first direction for the first time after the operation is started. When the continuous operation time exceeds the third time, the switching mechanism control unit further permits the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism to be controlled so that the blown air is blown out in the second direction.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit pertaining to the eighth aspect of the present invention, immediately after the start of the operation, in which temperature unevenness is particularly likely to occur, the second of the blown air regardless of whether the temperature and humidity of the air-conditioning target space satisfy predetermined conditions. Balloons in the direction are allowed. Therefore, the occurrence of temperature unevenness immediately after the start of operation is easily eliminated.

  The air conditioning indoor unit pertaining to the ninth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit pertaining to any of the first to eighth aspects, further comprising an air volume control unit that controls the air volume of the fan. The wind direction switching mechanism switches the wind direction of the blown air continuously from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction. The air volume control unit changes the air volume of the fan in the first direction while the air direction switching mechanism switches the air direction of the blown air from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction. And it reduces compared with the air volume of the fan at the time of blowing off blowing air in the 2nd direction.

  With the air conditioning indoor unit pertaining to the ninth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to avoid direct wind from hitting a person in the air-conditioning target space, and comfort is unlikely to be impaired.

  An air conditioning indoor unit according to a tenth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit according to the ninth aspect, wherein the air volume control unit blows out the air volume of the fan when blowing air in the second direction in the first direction. Decrease compared to the air volume of the fan when blowing air.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit pertaining to the tenth aspect of the present invention, the amount of air is reduced when air is blown vertically downward, so that direct hitting of people in the air-conditioning target space is easily suppressed, resulting in a decrease in comfort. It is easy to be prevented.

  The air conditioning indoor unit according to the first aspect of the present invention detects temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space when air is blown out in the first direction (horizontal or near horizontal) and air conditioning is performed (including dehumidification). If estimated, air is blown out in the second direction (vertically downward or in a direction close to vertical downward). As a result, the air-conditioned air is supplied to the vicinity of the vertically lower part of the air-conditioning indoor unit that is difficult for the blown air to reach when the air is blown in the first direction. Excellent comfort in the target space can be realized.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the second to fourth aspects of the present invention, the temperature unevenness can be accurately detected based on the measurement result of the sensor, and the temperature unevenness can be eliminated by controlling the direction of the blown air.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit pertaining to the fifth aspect of the present invention, temperature unevenness can be detected with a relatively simple configuration, and temperature unevenness can be eliminated by controlling the direction of the blown air.

  In the air conditioner indoor unit according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the occurrence of temperature unevenness is appropriately estimated based on the characteristic that temperature unevenness is likely to occur directly under the air conditioner indoor unit when air is blown in the first direction. It is possible to eliminate the occurrence of temperature unevenness and to suppress the occurrence of temperature unevenness.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to eliminate the occurrence of temperature unevenness and further improve the comfort on the premise of ensuring the comfort of the entire air conditioning target space.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit pertaining to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the occurrence of temperature unevenness is likely to be eliminated even immediately after the start of operation, where temperature unevenness is particularly likely to occur.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the ninth aspect or the tenth aspect of the present invention, it is easy to suppress direct wind from hitting a person in the air-conditioning target space, and it is easy to prevent a decrease in comfort.

It is a schematic perspective view of the air-conditioning indoor unit which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the air conditioning indoor unit of FIG. It is a block diagram of the air-conditioning indoor unit of FIG. It is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the air-conditioning indoor unit of FIG. 1 in the state which blows off air in the 2nd direction. It is a flowchart explaining the switching process of the air direction of the blowing air at the time of the circulation mode cooling operation of the air-conditioning indoor unit of FIG.

  Hereinafter, an air conditioning indoor unit 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are merely specific examples of the present invention and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention.

  In the following description, for convenience of explanation, the arrangement and orientation may be described using expressions such as “up”, “down”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “back”, and the like. Unless otherwise specified, these expressions follow the arrows shown in the figure.

(1) Overall Overview The air conditioning indoor unit 10 constitutes a part of an air conditioner together with an air conditioning outdoor unit (not shown). The air conditioner cools and heats the air-conditioning target space RS in which the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed by circulating the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit including the indoor heat exchanger 13 of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 (see FIG. 2). . The cooling here includes dehumidification of the air-conditioning target space RS. In the present embodiment, the air conditioner can perform cooling and heating of the air-conditioning target space RS, but is not limited thereto. The air conditioner may be an air conditioner dedicated to cooling.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the air conditioning indoor unit 10. FIG. 2 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 in FIG. 1 cut along a plane perpendicular to the left-right direction at the approximate center in the left-right direction, and the cross section seen from the right side. 1 and 2 depict the air conditioning indoor unit 10 in operation. 1 and 2 particularly depict the air conditioning indoor unit 10 when air is blown out in a first direction described later from an outlet 27 described later. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the air conditioning indoor unit 10.

  The air conditioning indoor unit 10 is a wall-hanging type and is installed on the wall WL (see FIGS. 1 and 2). Specifically, the rear part of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is attached to the wall WL.

  The air conditioning indoor unit 10 mainly includes a casing 11, an air filter 12, an indoor heat exchanger 13, an indoor fan 14, a bottom frame 16, a wind direction switching mechanism 30, a floor temperature sensor 70, a space temperature sensor 71, a space humidity sensor 72, and A control unit 80 is provided (see FIGS. 1 to 3).

(2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Casing The casing 11 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape extending long in the left-right direction. The casing 11 accommodates therein an air filter 12, an indoor heat exchanger 13, an indoor fan 14, a bottom frame 16, a wind direction switching mechanism 30, a control unit 80, and the like.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the casing 11 is provided with a top surface portion 11a, a front surface portion 11b, a right surface portion 11d, a left surface portion 11e, a bottom surface portion 11f, and a back plate 28 covered with a decorative plate 20. And a rear surface portion 11c. The air conditioning indoor unit 10 is attached to the wall WL by attaching the back plate 28 to a mounting plate (not shown) installed on the wall WL by screwing or the like.

  A top surface suction port 25 is provided in the top surface portion 11a of the casing 11 (see FIG. 2). When the indoor fan 14 is driven, air is sucked into the casing 11 from the top surface suction port 25. The air in the air-conditioning target space RS taken from the top surface inlet 25 passes through the air filter 12 and the indoor heat exchanger 13 and is sent to the indoor fan 14.

  A decorative plate 20 (front panel 21) whose upper end is rotatably supported by a hinge (not shown) is attached to the front surface portion 11b of the casing 11 (see FIG. 2). The front panel 21 is separated from the decorative plate 20 (right plate 22) covering the right side portion 11d and the decorative plate 20 (left plate 23) covering the left side portion 11e (see FIGS. 1 and 2).

  A bottom surface suction port 26 is provided in the bottom surface portion 11f of the casing 11 (see FIG. 2). The bottom surface suction port 26 is provided with an opening / closing plate 17 for opening and closing the bottom surface suction port 26. Moreover, the blower outlet 27 is provided in the bottom face part 11f (refer FIG. 2). The bottom suction port 26 is provided behind the air outlet 27.

  The bottom suction port 26 is connected to the space above the air filter 12 in the casing 11 by the suction flow path 16a (see FIG. 2). The suction flow path 16a is a flow path that is formed behind the indoor fan 14 and extends in the vertical direction on the rear side of the interior of the casing 11. When the indoor fan 14 is driven in a state where the opening / closing plate 17 is opened, air is sucked from the bottom surface suction port 26. The air sucked from the bottom suction port 26 passes through the suction flow path 16 a, passes through the air filter 12 and the indoor heat exchanger 13, and is sent to the indoor fan 14.

  The blower outlet 27 is a substantially rectangular opening having a long side in the left-right direction. The blower outlet 27 has an upper edge 27a that is disposed on the front side and extends in the left-right direction, and a lower edge 27b that is disposed on the rear side and extends in the left-right direction (see FIG. 2). The outlet 27 is connected to the inside of the casing 11 by a scroll air outlet channel 16b (see FIG. 2). The scroll air blowing flow path 16b extends from the position immediately below the indoor fan 14 toward the blowout outlet 27 diagonally forward and downward. The room air sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26 is subjected to heat exchange in the indoor heat exchanger 13, and then blown out from the blowout port 27 into the room through the scroll air blowing channel 16b.

(2-2) Air Filter The air filter 12 is a filter for collecting dust in the air of the air conditioning target space RS sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26. The air filter 12 prevents dust from adhering to the surface of the indoor heat exchanger 13. The air filter 12 is disposed between the top surface portion 11a and the front surface portion 11b of the casing 11 and the indoor heat exchanger 13 (see FIG. 2). The air filter 12 is configured to be detachable for maintenance.

(2-3) Indoor heat exchanger The indoor heat exchanger 13 includes a plurality of fins and a plurality of heat transfer tubes that penetrate the plurality of fins. The indoor heat exchanger 13 is attached to the bottom frame 16 accommodated in the casing 11.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the indoor heat exchanger 13 has a substantially inverted V shape with both ends directed downward in a side view. The indoor heat exchanger 13 is disposed above the indoor fan 14 so as to cover the indoor fan 14.

  The indoor heat exchanger 13 functions as an evaporator when an air conditioner that constitutes a part of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 cools the air conditioning target space RS (including dehumidification). In other words, when the air conditioner cools the air-conditioning target space RS, the indoor heat exchanger 13 exchanges heat with the air sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26 to take heat from the air. . More specifically, when the air conditioner cools the air-conditioning target space RS, between the air sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26 and the refrigerant flowing through the heat transfer tube of the indoor heat exchanger 13. Heat exchange takes place and heat is taken away from the air.

  On the other hand, the indoor heat exchanger 13 functions as a condenser when the air conditioner heats the air-conditioning target space RS. In other words, when the air conditioner heats the air-conditioning target space RS, the indoor heat exchanger 13 exchanges heat with the air sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26 to give heat to the air. . More specifically, when the air conditioner heats the air-conditioning target space RS, between the air sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26 and the refrigerant flowing through the heat transfer tube of the indoor heat exchanger 13. The heat exchange takes place in the air and heat is given to the air.

(2-4) Indoor fan The indoor fan 14 is arrange | positioned in the approximate center part inside the casing 11, as FIG. 2 shows. The indoor fan 14 is a substantially cylindrical cross flow fan extending in the longitudinal direction (left-right direction) of the air conditioning indoor unit 10. When the indoor fan 14 is rotationally driven, the air in the air-conditioning target space RS is sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26, passes through the air filter 12, and then passes through the indoor heat exchanger 13. And the indoor fan 14 blows off the air heat-exchanged by the indoor heat exchanger 13 (air-conditioned) from the blower outlet 27 to air-conditioning object space RS.

(2-5) Bottom Frame The bottom frame 16 supports the air filter 12, the indoor heat exchanger 13, and the indoor fan 14 (see FIG. 2). In the casing 11, a suction channel 16 a and a scroll air outlet channel 16 b are formed by the bottom frame 16 (see FIG. 2). The scroll air outlet channel 16b is a space sandwiched between a channel upper surface 16c disposed on the front side and a channel lower surface 16d disposed on the rear side (see FIG. 2).

(2-6) Wind Direction Switching Mechanism The wind direction switching mechanism 30 is a mechanism that switches the wind direction of the blown-out air that is blown out from the outlet 27 and adjusts the wind direction.

  The wind direction switching mechanism 30 has a first upper flap 40, a second upper flap 50, and a lower flap 60 that extend in the left-right direction and are used to switch the wind direction of the blown air in the vertical direction (see FIGS. 1 and 2). ). Further, the wind direction switching mechanism 30 has a plurality of vertical flaps 15 used for switching the wind direction of the blown air in the left-right direction (see FIGS. 1 and 3).

  The 1st upper flap 40 and the 2nd upper flap 50 are provided in the upper edge 27a side of the blower outlet 27 (refer FIG. 2). The lower flap 60 is provided on the lower edge 27b side of the air outlet 27 (see FIG. 2).

  The first upper flap 40 is in a state shown in FIG. 2 (a state in which air is blown out from the air outlet 27 in a first direction to be described later), and a first upper flap upper surface 41 disposed in the upper portion and a first upper flap 40 disposed in the lower portion. 1 upper flap lower surface 42. In the state of FIG. 2, the first upper flap 40 has a first end 43 disposed on the front side and a second end 44 disposed on the rear side. The second upper flap 50 has a second upper flap upper surface 51 disposed in the upper portion and a second upper flap lower surface 52 disposed in the lower portion in the state of FIG. 2 (see FIG. 2). In the state of FIG. 2, the second upper flap 50 has a first end 53 disposed on the front side and a second end 54 disposed on the rear side. In the state of FIG. 2, the lower flap 60 has a lower flap upper surface 61 disposed at the upper portion and a lower flap lower surface 62 disposed at the lower portion. In the state of FIG. 2, the lower flap 60 has a first end 63 disposed on the front side and a second end 64 disposed on the rear side.

  The first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 are each rotatably attached to the casing 11. The wind direction switching mechanism 30 includes a flap driving motor (not shown) that drives each of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60. The first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 are configured to be independently rotatable by a flap driving motor controlled by the control unit 80. The first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 are driven by a flap driving motor and rotate around a rotation center 45, a rotation center 55, and a rotation center 65 that extend to the left and right, respectively ( (See FIG. 4). The rotation center 45, the rotation center 55, and the rotation center 65 are in the vicinity of the second end 44 of the first upper flap 40, the second end 54 of the second upper flap 50, and the second end 64 of the lower flap 60, respectively. Be placed. In FIG. 2, drawing of the rotation center 45, the rotation center 55, and the rotation center 65 is omitted.

  The first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 are rotated by a flap driving motor during operation of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 and take a predetermined posture, alone or in cooperation with each other, The air direction of the air blown out from the air outlet 27 is adjusted in the vertical direction. By adjusting the wind direction by the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60, the air blown out from the air outlet 27 is substantially horizontally forward, forwardly downward, or substantially vertically downwardly. Blow out. The lower flap 60 opens the air outlet 27 when the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is operated, and closes the air outlet 27 when the operation is stopped. When the operation is stopped, the second upper flap 50 approaches the casing 11 and takes a posture like a part of the casing 11 together with the decorative plate 20.

  On the rear side of the first upper flap 40 (upstream side in the blowing direction of the indoor fan 14), a plurality of vertical flaps 15 having a plane intersecting the left-right direction are provided (see FIGS. 1 and 4). . In FIG. 2, the drawing of the vertical flap 15 is omitted. The wind direction switching mechanism 30 includes a flap driving motor (not shown) that drives the vertical flap 15. The vertical flap 15 is configured to be rotatable around a rotation center (not shown) extending vertically by a flap driving motor controlled by the control unit 80. The vertical flap 15 adjusts the air direction of the air blown from the air outlet 27 to the left and right.

(2-6-1) Direction of blown air during circulation mode cooling operation For circulation mode cooling operation (for cooling (including dehumidification) of the air-conditioning target space RS, a circulation mode described later is used to conditioned room). The air direction of the air blown out from the air outlet 27 when the machine 10 is operated will be described below. Here, the wind direction of the blown air in which the wind direction is adjusted (switched) by the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 will be described.

  The air direction switching mechanism 30 at the time of the circulation mode cooling operation at least determines the air direction of the air blown out from the air outlet 27 between the first direction that is horizontal or nearly horizontal and the second direction that is vertically downward or nearly vertically downward. Switch. Note that the air direction of the blown air blown out from the blower outlet 27 during the circulation mode cooling operation may be further switched to a direction other than the first direction and the second direction (for example, forward downward) as necessary. .

  Note that the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is configured to switch the first upper flap 40, the first flap 40, and the second upper flap 40 when the air direction of the air blown out from the air outlet 27 is switched from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction. 2 The postures of the upper flap 50 and the lower flap 60 are continuously changed. In other words, the wind direction switching mechanism 30 switches the wind direction of the blown-out air blown from the outlet 27 by continuously changing from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction.

(A) First direction The first direction is horizontal or nearly horizontal.

  The air direction switching mechanism 30 switches the air direction of the blown air blown out from the air outlet 27 to the first direction (sets to the first direction) during the circulation mode cooling operation. The circulation mode is an air conditioning indoor unit that sends airflow from the air outlet 27 mainly in the first direction to the back of the air conditioning target space RS to circulate the air-conditioned air in the air conditioning target space RS. 10 operation modes.

  When air is blown out from the air outlet 27 in the first direction (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as “air blowing out in the first direction for simplification of explanation), the air blown out from the air outlet 27 is the ceiling, air conditioning room For the air conditioning indoor unit 10 facing the wall WL on which the air conditioner 10 is installed, the ceiling on the back wall (the wall on the front side of the air conditioning indoor unit 10), the floor, and the wall WL on which the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed , Generally flowing along the wall and floor, and a circulating airflow is generated in the air-conditioning target space RS. In order to allow the airflow to reach the depth of the air conditioning target space RS, it is preferable to create a laminar flow having a high wind speed without diffusing the air at the air outlet 27.

  At the time of blowing in the first direction, the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 are controlled by a control unit 80, which will be described later, as shown in FIGS. Take a posture. That is, at the time of blowing in the first direction, the first upper flap 40 takes a posture such that the first upper flap lower surface 42 smoothly extends the flow channel upper surface 16c of the scroll air blowing flow channel 16b forward. Further, at the time of blowing in the first direction, the lower flap 60 takes a posture such that the lower flap upper surface 61 smoothly extends the flow path lower surface 16d of the scroll air blowing flow path 16b forward. That is, at the time of blowing in the first direction, the same situation is created as if the scroll air blowing flow path 16b was extended forward by the first upper flap 40 and the lower flap 60. As a result, a laminar flow having a high wind speed is created so that the airflow easily reaches the depth of the air conditioning target space RS.

  The second upper flap 50 provided on the downstream side in the air blowing direction from the first upper flap 40 is a pseudo outlet of the first upper flap 40 that is an outlet of the scroll air outlet passage 16b. The direction of the air blown out from the portion surrounded by the first end 43 and the first end 63 of the lower flap 60 is finely adjusted in the vertical direction. In the state shown in FIG. 2, the second upper flap 50 has a posture in which the resistance to the blown air becomes as small as possible and the air direction blown slightly downward from the horizontal is slightly lifted. ing.

  Note that the postures of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 at the time of blowing in the first direction described here are merely examples. The postures of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 are appropriately determined so that the air direction of the air blown out from the air outlet 27 is in the first direction (horizontal direction or a direction close to the horizontal direction). It only has to be done.

(B) Second direction The second direction is a direction that is vertically downward or nearly vertically downward.

  The wind direction switching mechanism 30 temporarily detects the wind direction of the blown-out air that is blown out from the air outlet 27 when it is detected or estimated that temperature unevenness occurs in the air conditioning target space RS during the cooling mode cooling operation. Switch in two directions. The process of switching the air direction of the blown-out air blown out from the blow-out port 27 during the circulation mode cooling operation will be described later.

  When air is blown out from the air outlet 27 in the second direction (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as the air blowing in the second direction for simplification of description), the air outlet indoor unit 10 is installed from the air outlet 27 to the wall WL. The flow of the air along is produced, and the air-conditioned air is sent directly under the air conditioning indoor unit 10.

  At the time of blowing in the second direction, the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 are controlled by the control unit 80, which will be described later, and assume the posture shown in FIG. . When the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 are in the posture as shown in FIG. 4, from the outlet 27 to the rear side of the outlet 27 (the wall WL side to which the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is attached). ) Is generated. When blowing in the second direction, the lower flap 60 rotates so that the first end 63 is positioned behind the second end 64, and the lower flap upper surface 61 is on the upper end side (second end 64 side) with respect to the vertical surface. Will be tilted forward. At the time of blowing in the second direction, the second upper flap 50 rotates so that the first end 53 is located behind the second end 54, and the second upper flap upper surface 51 is at the upper end side with respect to the vertical surface ( The second end 54 side) is inclined forward. Further, at the time of blowing in the second direction, the first upper flap 40 rotates so that the first end 43 is located rearward of the second end 44, and the first upper flap upper surface 41 is located on the upper end side with respect to the vertical surface ( The second end 44 side) is inclined forward.

  Preferably, a recess 66 is formed on the second end 64 side of the lower flap lower surface 62. The lower flap 60 is configured such that the lower edge 27b of the air outlet 27 enters a recess 66 formed in the lower flap lower surface 62 when blowing in the second direction. By being configured in this way, the first end 63 of the lower flap 60 can be moved rearward as compared with the case where the recess 66 is not formed on the lower flap lower surface 62, and the air current flows from the higher position to the wall WL. Can be kept.

  Note that the postures of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 at the time of blowing in the second direction described here are merely examples. The postures of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 are appropriately determined so that the air direction of the air blown out from the air outlet 27 is in the second direction (vertically downward or nearly vertically downward). Just do it. For example, the posture of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 when blowing in the second direction is such that the first upper flap upper surface 41, the second upper flap upper surface 51, and the lower flap upper surface 61 are in the second direction. You may determine so that it may become a substantially vertical surface at the time of blowing.

(2-7) Floor Temperature Sensor The floor temperature sensor 70 is an example of a temperature unevenness detection sensor that detects temperature unevenness in the air conditioning target space RS.

  The floor temperature sensor 70 is a sensor that detects the indoor floor temperature. As the floor temperature sensor 70, sensors using various detection methods can be employed. Here, the floor temperature sensor 70 is a thermopile array sensor. The floor temperature sensor 70 is provided, for example, on the bottom surface portion 11f of the casing 11 (see FIG. 1).

  The floor temperature sensor 70 detects the floor temperature of the air conditioning target space RS for each area. For example, the floor temperature sensor 70 divides the floor of the air conditioning target space RS into 8 × 8 areas and detects the temperature for each area. The floor temperature sensor 70 detects the temperature of the floor near the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed as the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit 10. In addition, the floor temperature sensor 70 detects the temperature of the floor surface away from the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed as the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS away from the wall WL. That is, the floor temperature sensor 70 is an example of a first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor.

  In the present embodiment, the floor temperature sensor 70 functions as both the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor, but is not limited to this. For example, the floor temperature sensor 70 may include a first floor temperature sensor as a first temperature sensor and a second floor temperature sensor as a second temperature sensor different from the first floor temperature sensor.

(2-8) Space Temperature Sensor The space temperature sensor 71 is a sensor that detects the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS. The space temperature sensor 71 is disposed, for example, in the vicinity of the top surface inlet 25, and detects the temperature of air taken into the air conditioning indoor unit 10 as the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS. In addition, the installation location of the space temperature sensor 71 shown here is an example, Comprising: The space temperature sensor 71 may be provided in the other location which can detect the temperature representative of the temperature of air-conditioning object space RS.

(2-9) Spatial Humidity Sensor The spatial humidity sensor 72 is a sensor that detects the humidity of the air conditioning target space RS. The space humidity sensor 72 is disposed, for example, in the vicinity of the top surface suction port 25, and detects the humidity of the air taken into the air conditioning indoor unit 10 as the humidity of the air conditioning target space RS. In addition, the installation location of the space humidity sensor 72 shown here is an example, and the space humidity sensor 72 may be provided in another place where humidity representing the humidity of the air-conditioning target space RS can be detected.

(2-10) Control Unit The control unit 80 mainly includes a CPU (not shown) and a memory (not shown). The control unit 80 controls the operation of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 by executing a program stored in the memory.

  The control unit 80 is electrically connected to the indoor fan 14 of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 and the wind direction switching mechanism 30 (the flap driving motor of the wind direction switching mechanism 30). The control unit 80 is electrically connected to various sensors including the floor temperature sensor 70, the space temperature sensor 71, and the space humidity sensor 72 of the air conditioning indoor unit 10. The control unit 80 is electrically connected to a control unit (not shown) included in the air conditioner outdoor unit that constitutes the air conditioner together with the air conditioner indoor unit 10. The control unit 80 is configured to be communicable with a remote controller (not shown) used by a user of the air conditioner to give a command to the air conditioner.

  The control unit 80 is based on the measurement results of various sensors, the signals transmitted from the control unit of the air conditioner outdoor unit, the instructions of the air conditioner user transmitted from the remote controller, and the like. To control the operation.

  Here, of the control of the operation of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 by the control unit 80, the control of the operation of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 during the circulation mode cooling operation will be mainly described.

  The control unit 80 includes a switching mechanism control unit 81, a control permission unit 82, a fan control unit 83, a temperature unevenness detection unit 84, as functional units particularly related to control of the operation of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 during the circulation mode cooling operation. A temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 is included.

(2-10-1) Switching Mechanism Control Unit The switching mechanism control unit 81 controls the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the wind direction of the blown-out air blown from the outlet 27 is switched.

  The switching mechanism control unit 81 is provided from the air outlet 27 in the direction specified by the air conditioner user with the remote control, or in the direction according to the air conditioner operation mode or airflow mode specified by the air conditioner user with the remote control. The operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled so that the wind direction of the blown out air is switched. The operation mode of the air conditioner includes an automatic mode, a cooling mode, a dehumidifying mode, a heating mode, an air blowing mode, and the like. The automatic mode is an operation mode in which the control unit 80 automatically selects the operation content according to the temperature, humidity, and the like of the air conditioning target space RS. The airflow mode is a type of the mode of blowing out the blown air blown out from the blowout port 27, and the above-described circulation mode is one of the airflow modes.

  Here, in particular, the operation of the switching mechanism controller 81 during the circulation mode cooling operation will be described. Circulation mode During cooling operation, in other words, the user of the air conditioner selects the automatic mode, cooling mode or dehumidification mode as the operation mode of the air conditioner, and the circulation mode as the airflow mode, and the air conditioner operates in the cooling operation. Or when dehumidifying operation is performed.

  The switching mechanism control unit 81 normally controls the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the air blown out from the air-conditioning indoor unit 10 in the first direction during the circulation mode cooling operation.

  However, if the switching mechanism control unit 81 detects or estimates that the temperature unevenness is generated in the air-conditioning target space RS when the air blown out from the air-conditioning indoor unit 10 in the first direction, the switching mechanism control unit 81 temporarily blows out the air. The operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled so that air blows out in the second direction. More specifically, when the blown air is blown out from the air conditioning indoor unit 10 in the first direction, the switching mechanism control unit 81 temporarily changes the blown air based on the detection result by the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 described later. The operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled so as to blow out in the second direction. In addition, when the blown air is blown out from the air conditioning indoor unit 10 in the first direction, the switching mechanism control unit 81 temporarily blows the blown air in the second direction based on the estimation result by the temperature unevenness estimating unit 85 described later. The operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled so as to blow out.

(2-10-2) Control permission unit The control permission unit 82 is a functional unit that permits the switching mechanism control unit 81 to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30. In other words, the control permission unit 82 is a functional unit that prohibits the switching mechanism control unit 81 from controlling the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30. In the control permission unit 82, in particular, when air is blown out from the air conditioning indoor unit 10 in the first direction, the switching mechanism control unit 81 controls the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30, and the wind direction of the blown air is changed to the second direction. And allow switching.

  As described above, the switching mechanism control unit 81 is based on the detection result by the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 or the estimation result by the temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 when the air blown out from the air conditioning indoor unit 10 in the first direction. The operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled. However, when the control permission unit 82 does not permit, even if it is detected or estimated that the temperature unevenness is generated in the air conditioning target space RS, the switching mechanism control unit 81 changes the air direction of the blown air in the first direction. The operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 cannot be controlled so as to switch to the second direction.

  Under what conditions the control permission unit 82 permits the switching mechanism control unit 81 to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 will be described later.

(2-10-3) Fan Control Unit The fan control unit 83 controls the operation / stop of the indoor fan 14 and the air volume of the indoor fan 14 (the number of rotations of the fan motor). The fan control unit 83 is an example of an air volume control unit. The fan control unit 83 blows out from the air outlet 27 to the air volume specified by the air conditioner user with the remote control, or to the air flow according to the operation mode of the air conditioner specified by the air conditioner user or the air flow mode. The operation of the indoor fan 14 is controlled so that the air volume of the blown air is switched.

  During the cooling mode cooling operation, the fan control unit 83 is during the air direction switching mechanism 30 switching the air direction of the blown air from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction. The air volume of the indoor fan 14 is reduced as compared with the air volume of the indoor fan 14 when the blown air is blown out in the first direction and the second direction. During the cooling mode cooling operation, the fan control unit 83 is during the air direction switching mechanism 30 switching the air direction of the blown air from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction. The air volume of the indoor fan 14 is controlled to the minimum air volume. Further, the fan control unit 83 compares the air volume of the indoor fan 14 when blowing the blown air in the second direction during the circulation mode cooling operation with the air volume of the indoor fan 14 when blowing the blown air in the first direction. Decrease. The fan control unit 83 can avoid direct air hitting a person in the air-conditioning target space RS by performing such air volume control of the indoor fan 14 during the circulation mode cooling operation, thereby reducing comfort. It is easy to be prevented.

(2-10-4) Temperature Unevenness Detection Unit The temperature unevenness detection unit 84 detects the occurrence of temperature unevenness in the air conditioning target space RS based on the measurement result of the floor temperature sensor 70. The temperature unevenness detection unit 84 detects that temperature unevenness occurs in the air conditioning target space RS at least during the circulation mode cooling operation.

  At the time of the circulation mode cooling operation, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 has generated temperature unevenness in the air conditioning target space RS based on the comparison result between the near side temperature and the back side temperature transmitted from the floor temperature sensor 70. Is detected. Here, the near side temperature means a measured value of the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit 10 measured by the floor temperature sensor 70 (the temperature of the floor near the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed). To do. The back side temperature means a measured value of the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS separated from the wall WL measured by the floor temperature sensor 70 (the temperature of the floor surface away from the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed). Specifically, during the circulation mode cooling operation, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 determines that the front side temperature is the back side when the difference between the front side temperature and the back side temperature is a predetermined value or more. When it is higher than the temperature by a predetermined value or more, it is detected that temperature unevenness has occurred in the air conditioning target space RS.

  In addition, the temperature nonuniformity detection part 84 may detect that the temperature nonuniformity has arisen in air-conditioning object space RS based on the comparison result of the near side temperature and back side temperature of a certain moment. Further, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 is based on a comparison result between the near side temperature and the far side temperature during a certain period (for example, 1 minute) (for example, the near side temperature is higher than the far side temperature by a predetermined value or more). You may detect that the temperature nonuniformity has arisen in air-conditioning object space RS when it continues for a certain period.

(2-10-5) Temperature nonuniformity estimation part The temperature nonuniformity estimation part 85 estimates that the temperature nonuniformity has arisen in air-conditioning object space RS. The temperature unevenness detection unit 84 estimates that temperature unevenness occurs in the air-conditioning target space RS at least during the circulation mode cooling operation.

  During the circulation mode cooling operation, the temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 estimates that the temperature unevenness occurs in the air-conditioning target space when the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction exceeds a predetermined time. .

(3) The process of switching the air direction of the blown air during the circulation mode cooling operation The process of switching the wind direction of the blown air performed during the circulation mode cooling operation will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  The air conditioner user selects the automatic mode, air conditioning mode or dehumidification mode as the air conditioner operation mode and the circulation mode as the airflow mode via the remote control, and instructs the air conditioner to start operation. When the mode is the automatic mode, when the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation is further selected by the control unit 80, the following series of processes is started. In the following description, for simplification of description, the case where the user of the air conditioner changes the operation mode or the airflow mode on the way is not considered.

  First, in step S <b> 1, the switching mechanism control unit 81 controls the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the wind direction of the blown-out air blown from the blower outlet 27 is the first direction. Specifically, the switching mechanism control unit 81 gives an instruction to a flap driving motor (not shown) of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 to change the postures of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 in the first direction. Change to the attitude when blowing out.

  Next, in step S2, it is determined whether or not the initial switching time has elapsed since the blown air started to blow in the first direction. The initial switching time is a preset time. The initial switching time is not limited, but is, for example, 10 minutes. If it is determined that the initial switching time has elapsed since the blown air started to blow in the first direction, the process proceeds to step S3. Step S2 is repeated until it is determined that the initial switching time has elapsed after the blown air starts to blow in the first direction.

  When the continuous operation time after the air conditioner indoor unit 10 starts to blow air in the first direction for the first time after the operation of the circulation mode cooling operation is started exceeds the initial switching time, the control permission unit 82 switches the switching mechanism control unit 81. However, it is comprised so that control of operation | movement of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 may be performed so that blowing air may blow off in a 2nd direction. Therefore, in step S3, the control permission unit 82 permits the switching mechanism control unit 81 to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the blown air is blown out in the second direction.

  The temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 is configured to estimate that temperature unevenness is generated in the air-conditioning target space RS when the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction exceeds the initial switching time. . Therefore, in step S3, the temperature nonuniformity estimation unit 85 estimates that temperature nonuniformity has occurred in the air conditioning target space RS.

  Next, in step S4, the switching mechanism control unit 81 allows the switching mechanism control unit 81 to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30, and the control permission unit 82 permits temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space RS. Therefore, the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled so that the blown air blows out in the second direction. Specifically, the switching mechanism control unit 81 gives an instruction to a flap driving motor (not shown) of the wind direction switching mechanism 30, and the postures of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 of the wind direction switching mechanism 30. Is changed to the posture at the time of blowing in the second direction.

  Next, in step S5, it is determined whether or not the second direction blowing set time has elapsed since the blowing air started to blow in the second direction. The second direction blowing set time is a time set in advance so as to eliminate temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space RS. Although the 2nd direction blowing setting time is not limited, it is 2 minutes, for example. If it is determined that the second direction blowing set time has elapsed since the blown air started to blow in the second direction, the process proceeds to step S6. Step S5 is repeated until it is determined that the second direction blowing set time has elapsed after the blown air starts blowing in the second direction.

  In step S6, the switching mechanism control unit 81 controls the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the blown air is blown out in the first direction. Specifically, the switching mechanism control unit 81 gives an instruction to a flap driving motor (not shown) of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 to change the postures of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 in the first direction. Change to the attitude when blowing out. In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, in step S6, the control permission part 82 prohibits that the switching mechanism control part 81 controls operation | movement of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that blowing air blows off in a 2nd direction ( Release control permission).

  Next, in step S7, it is determined whether the air-conditioning target space RS satisfies the predetermined condition continuously for the first predetermined time. The predetermined condition here is a condition that the temperature detected by the spatial temperature sensor 71 is equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature and the humidity detected by the spatial humidity sensor is equal to or lower than the predetermined humidity. In addition, it is preferable that the value which estimates that the comfort of the user of an air conditioner is satisfy | filled is used for predetermined temperature and predetermined humidity. For example, although not limited, in step S7, a state in which the temperature detected by the space temperature sensor 71 is equal to or lower than the set temperature input from the remote controller and the humidity detected by the space humidity sensor 72 is equal to or less than 70% is 60 minutes. It is determined whether or not the above is continued. When it is determined that the air-conditioning target space RS satisfies the predetermined condition continuously for the first predetermined time, the process proceeds to step S8. The determination in step S7 is repeated until it is determined that the air-conditioning target space RS satisfies the predetermined condition continuously for the first predetermined time.

  When the control permission unit 82 is in the circulation mode cooling operation, the temperature detected by the spatial temperature sensor 71 is equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature and the humidity detected by the spatial humidity sensor 72 is equal to or lower than the predetermined humidity. The switching mechanism control unit 81 is configured to permit the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 to be controlled so that the blown air is blown out in the second direction. Therefore, in step S8, the control permission unit 82 permits the switching mechanism control unit 81 to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the blown air is blown out in the second direction.

  Next, in step S <b> 9, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 determines that temperature unevenness has occurred in the air conditioning target space RS based on the comparison result between the near side temperature and the back side temperature transmitted from the floor temperature sensor 70. Detect. As described above, the near side temperature is a measured value of the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit 10 measured by the floor temperature sensor 70, and the far side temperature is the air conditioning object separated from the wall WL measured by the floor temperature sensor 70. It is a measured value of the temperature of the space RS. Specifically, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 determines whether the near side temperature is higher than the back side temperature by a predetermined value or more. The temperature unevenness detection unit 84 detects that temperature unevenness occurs in the air conditioning target space RS when the near side temperature is higher than the back side temperature by a predetermined value or more (for example, at a certain moment or during a certain period) (step S10). ), The process returns to step S4. Since the process of step S4 has already been described, a description thereof will be omitted. If the near side temperature is not higher than the back side temperature by a predetermined value or more, the process proceeds to step S11.

  In step S11, it is determined whether or not the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction (the time since the last blown air direction is switched to the first direction) has exceeded the second predetermined time. Is done. The second predetermined time is a preset time. The second predetermined time is not limited, but is 90 minutes, for example. When it is determined that the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction has exceeded the second predetermined time, the process proceeds to step S12. If it is determined that the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction is shorter than the second predetermined time, the process returns to step S7. In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, when returning to step S7, the control permission part 82 controls the operation | movement of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the switching mechanism control part 81 blows off blowing air in a 2nd direction. Is prohibited (remove control permission).

  The temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 generates temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space RS when the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction exceeds the second predetermined time except during the process of step S3. It is configured to estimate that Therefore, in step S12, the temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 estimates that temperature unevenness occurs in the air conditioning target space RS. Then, the process proceeds to step S4. Since the process of step S4 has already been described, a description thereof will be omitted.

  Note that the above-described airflow direction switching process described with reference to FIG. 5 is an example of the airflow direction switching process performed during the circulation mode cooling operation, and is not limited thereto. For example, the airflow direction switching process performed during the cooling mode cooling operation may be designed such that the process from step S2 to step S6 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S7 after step S1 in FIG.

(4) Features (4-1)
The air conditioning indoor unit 10 of the present embodiment includes a casing 11, an indoor heat exchanger 13 as an example of a heat exchanger, an indoor fan 14 as an example of a fan, a wind direction switching mechanism 30, and a switching mechanism control unit 81. . The casing 11 is provided with a top surface suction port 25, a bottom surface suction port 26, and an air outlet 27. The indoor heat exchanger 13 exchanges heat with the air sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26 to take heat from the air. The indoor fan 14 blows out the air heat-exchanged by the indoor heat exchanger 13 from the blower outlet 27. The wind direction switching mechanism 30 switches the wind direction of the blown-out air blown from the blower outlet 27 at least between the first direction and the second direction. The first direction is horizontal or nearly horizontal. The second direction is a direction that is vertically downward or close to vertical downward. When the switching mechanism control unit 81 detects or estimates that temperature unevenness occurs in the air-conditioning target space RS when the blown air is blown out in the first direction, the blown air is temporarily blown out in the second direction. The operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled.

  When the air conditioning indoor unit 10 detects or estimates the temperature unevenness of the air-conditioning target space RS when air is blown out in the first direction for cooling (including dehumidification), the air is blown out in the second direction. As a result, air-conditioned air is supplied to the vicinity of the vertically lower part of the air-conditioning indoor unit 10 where the blown-out air is difficult to reach by air blowing in the first direction, and temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space RS can be eliminated. The excellent comfort of the air-conditioning target space RS can be realized.

(4-2)
The air conditioning indoor unit 10 of the present embodiment includes a floor temperature sensor 70 and a temperature unevenness detection unit 84. The floor temperature sensor 70 is an example of a temperature unevenness detection sensor for detecting temperature unevenness. Based on the measurement result of the floor temperature sensor 70, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 detects that temperature unevenness occurs in the air conditioning target space RS. When the blown air is blown out in the first direction, the switching mechanism control unit 81 operates the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the blown air is blown out temporarily in the second direction based on the detection result by the temperature unevenness detecting unit 84. Control.

  The air conditioning indoor unit 10 can accurately detect the occurrence of temperature unevenness based on the measurement result of the floor temperature sensor 70, and can eliminate the temperature unevenness by controlling the direction of the blown air.

(4-3)
The air conditioning indoor unit 10 of this embodiment is a wall-hanging type. The floor temperature sensor 70 includes a first temperature sensor that measures the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit 10. In other words, the floor temperature sensor 70 functions as a first temperature sensor that measures the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit 10.

  Here, since the temperature unevenness is detected based on the measurement result of the first temperature sensor that measures the temperature below the wall-mounted air conditioning indoor unit 10, it is easy to accurately detect the temperature unevenness without overlooking it.

(4-4)
In the air conditioning indoor unit 10 of the present embodiment, the floor temperature sensor 70 includes a second temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS away from the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed. In other words, the floor temperature sensor 70 functions as a second temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS away from the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed. The temperature unevenness detection unit 84 uses a comparison result between the measured value (front side temperature) of the floor temperature sensor 70 as the first temperature sensor and the measured value (back side temperature) of the floor temperature sensor 70 as the second temperature sensor. Based on this, temperature unevenness in the air conditioning target space RS is detected.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit 10, temperature unevenness is detected based on the measurement results of the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS at a position away from the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed and the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit 10. Therefore, it is easy to detect accurately without overlooking the temperature unevenness.

(4-5)
The air conditioning indoor unit 10 of this embodiment includes a temperature unevenness estimation unit 85. The temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 estimates that temperature unevenness occurs in the air-conditioning target space RS when the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction exceeds the first time. When the blown air is blown out in the first direction, the switching mechanism control unit 81 operates the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the blown air is temporarily blown out in the second direction based on the estimation result by the temperature unevenness estimating unit 85. Control.

  Specifically, immediately after the start of the circulation cooling operation, the temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 performs air conditioning when the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction exceeds the initial switching time. It is estimated that temperature unevenness has occurred in the target space RS (see FIG. 5). At other timings, the temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 indicates that temperature unevenness occurs in the air-conditioning target space RS when the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction exceeds the second predetermined time. Estimate (see FIG. 5).

  The air conditioning indoor unit 10 appropriately estimates the occurrence of temperature unevenness based on the characteristic that temperature unevenness is likely to occur directly under the air conditioning indoor unit 10 when air is blown out in the first direction, and eliminates temperature unevenness. It is possible to suppress the occurrence of temperature unevenness.

  The air conditioning indoor unit 10 has a floor temperature sensor 70 as a temperature unevenness detection sensor. However, depending on the situation (for example, when there is an obstacle), temperature unevenness may occur at a position where measurement is difficult with the floor temperature sensor 70. Here, since the occurrence of temperature unevenness is estimated when the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction for a long time, even if the temperature unevenness of the air-conditioning target space RS is difficult to detect by the sensor, the temperature unevenness is eliminated. can do.

(4-6)
The air conditioning indoor unit 10 of this embodiment includes a space temperature sensor 71, a space humidity sensor 72, and a control permission unit 82. The space temperature sensor 71 detects the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS. The space humidity sensor 72 detects the humidity of the air conditioning target space RS. The control permission unit 82 permits the switching mechanism control unit 81 to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30. The control permission unit 82 controls the switching mechanism when the temperature detected by the spatial temperature sensor 71 is equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature and the humidity detected by the spatial humidity sensor 72 is equal to or lower than the predetermined humidity for the first predetermined time or longer. The part 81 permits to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the blown air is blown out in the second direction.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit 10, priority is given to blowing out air in the first direction in which a circulating airflow is easily generated in the air conditioning target space RS until the temperature and humidity of the air conditioning target space RS satisfy predetermined conditions. As a result, on the premise of ensuring the comfort of the air-conditioning target space RS as a whole, it is possible to eliminate the occurrence of temperature unevenness and further improve the comfort.

(4-7)
In the air conditioning indoor unit 10 according to the present embodiment, the control permission unit 82 switches the switching operation when the continuous operation time after the air conditioning indoor unit 10 starts to blow the blown air in the first direction for the first time after the start of operation exceeds the initial switching time. The mechanism control unit 81 permits the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 to be controlled so that the blown air is blown out in the second direction.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit 10, immediately after the start of the operation, in which temperature unevenness is particularly likely to occur, the blowout of the blown air in the second direction is performed regardless of whether the temperature / humidity of the air conditioning target space RS satisfies the predetermined condition. Allowed. Therefore, the occurrence of temperature unevenness immediately after the start of operation is easily eliminated.

(4-8)
The air conditioning indoor unit 10 of the present embodiment includes a fan control unit 83 as an example of an air volume control unit that controls the air volume of the indoor fan 14. The air direction switching mechanism 30 switches the air direction of the blown air continuously from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction. While the air direction switching mechanism 30 switches the air direction of the blown air from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction, the fan control unit 83 controls the air volume of the indoor fan 14. The air volume of the indoor fan 14 when the air is blown in the first direction and the second direction is reduced.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit 10, it is possible to avoid direct hitting of a person in the air conditioning target space RS, and comfort is not easily impaired.

(4-9)
In the air conditioning indoor unit 10 of the present embodiment, the fan control unit 83 compares the air volume of the indoor fan 14 when blowing air in the second direction with the air volume of the indoor fan 14 when blowing air in the first direction. Decrease.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit 10, when the air is blown downward, the air volume is reduced, so that direct hitting of a person in the air conditioning target space RS is easily suppressed, and a decrease in comfort is easily prevented.

(5) Modification Examples of the present embodiment are shown below. Note that the following modifications may be combined as appropriate within a range that does not contradict each other.

(5-1) Modification A
In the above embodiment, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 detects that temperature unevenness occurs in the air conditioning target space RS based on the comparison result between the near side temperature and the back side temperature transmitted from the floor temperature sensor 70. However, the detection method of the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 is not limited to this.

  For example, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 generates temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space RS based on the change over time of the temperature measured by the first temperature sensor (in other words, the near-side temperature transmitted from the floor temperature sensor 70). May be detected. More specifically, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 determines whether the temperature measured by the first temperature sensor gradually increases (although the set temperature input from the remote controller has not been changed). You may detect that the temperature nonuniformity has arisen in space RS. When comprised in this way, temperature nonuniformity can be detected with a comparatively simple structure, and temperature nonuniformity can be eliminated by the wind direction control of blowing air.

(5-2) Modification B
One of the causes of temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space RS may be the effect of solar radiation. For example, sunlight enters from a window provided on the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed to warm the floor surface, or the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed is warmed by sunlight. There is a possibility that temperature unevenness occurs in the target space RS. Therefore, in the air conditioning target space RS, temperature unevenness is likely to occur particularly during the day.

  Therefore, the above-described switching process from the first direction to the second direction of the blown air during the circulation mode cooling operation may be performed only during the daytime. For example, the control permission unit 82 may always prohibit the switching mechanism control unit 81 from controlling the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the blown air blows out in the second direction at night.

(5-3) Modification C
The configuration of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 of the above embodiment is an example, and the wind direction switching mechanism is not limited to the above configuration. For example, the wind direction switching mechanism switches the wind direction blown out from the air outlet 27 between the first direction and the second direction using two or less flaps or using three or more flaps. It may be configured as follows.

  For example, the casing 11 has air outlets formed at two or more locations, and the air conditioning indoor unit is configured to blow air from different air outlets when air is blown in the first direction and when air is blown in the second direction. May be configured. The wind direction switching mechanism may adjust the wind direction using different flaps when blowing air in the first direction and when blowing air in the second direction.

(5-4) Modification D
In the above embodiment, the switching mechanism control unit 81 is when the blown air is blown out in the first direction, and when it is detected that temperature unevenness is generated in the air conditioning target space RS, and the air conditioning target space RS. In both cases where it is estimated that temperature unevenness has occurred, the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled so that the blown air is temporarily blown in the second direction.

  However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the air-conditioning indoor unit does not have the temperature unevenness estimation unit 85, and the switching mechanism control unit 81 has the air-conditioning target space RS when the blown air is blown out in the first direction. Only when it is detected that temperature unevenness has occurred, the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 may be controlled so that the blown air is temporarily blown in the second direction. In addition, for example, the air conditioning indoor unit does not have the temperature unevenness detection unit 84, and the switching mechanism control unit 81 may have temperature unevenness in the air conditioning target space RS when the blown air is blown out in the first direction. Only when estimated, the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 may be controlled so that the blown air is temporarily blown in the second direction.

  However, in order to more reliably suppress the occurrence of temperature unevenness, it is estimated that the temperature unevenness is generated in the air-conditioning target space RS when it is detected that the temperature unevenness is generated in the air-conditioning target space RS. In both cases, the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is preferably controlled so that the blown air is temporarily blown in the second direction.

  The present invention can be widely applied to air conditioning indoor units and is useful.

10 Air Conditioning Indoor Unit 11 Casing 13 Indoor Heat Exchanger (Heat Exchanger)
14 Indoor fans (fans)
25 Top surface inlet (inlet)
26 Bottom suction port (suction port)
27 Air outlet 30 Wind direction switching mechanism 70 Floor temperature sensor (temperature unevenness detection sensor, first temperature sensor, second temperature sensor)
71 Spatial temperature sensor 72 Spatial humidity sensor 81 Switching mechanism control unit 82 Control permission unit 83 Fan control unit (air flow control unit)
84 Temperature unevenness detection part 85 Temperature unevenness estimation part RS Air-conditioning object space WL Wall

JP 2013-0776530 A

  The present invention relates to an air conditioning indoor unit.

  For example, as in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2013-075530), air that has been deprived of heat by a heat exchanger is blown out in a horizontal direction or a direction close to the horizontal direction to cool an air-conditioning target space. The machine is known. By blowing air from the air-conditioning indoor unit in the horizontal direction or in a direction close to the horizontal direction, a circulating airflow is generated in the air-conditioning target space, so that the entire air-conditioning target space is easily air-conditioned.

  However, when air is blown out from the air conditioning indoor unit in the horizontal direction or in a direction close to the horizontal direction, the air blown out from the air conditioning indoor unit is unlikely to reach the vicinity immediately below the air conditioning indoor unit. Therefore, temperature unevenness may occur in the air conditioning target space, and there is room for improvement in terms of comfort.

  The subject of this invention is providing the air-conditioning indoor unit which can implement | achieve the outstanding comfort of the air-conditioning object space which is easy to eliminate the temperature nonuniformity of the air-conditioning object space during cooling.

An air conditioning indoor unit according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a wall-hanging casing, a heat exchanger, a fan, a wind direction switching mechanism, and a switching mechanism control unit. The casing is provided with an inlet and an outlet. The heat exchanger exchanges heat with air sucked from the suction port, and takes heat from the air. A fan blows out the air heat-exchanged with the heat exchanger from a blower outlet. A wind direction switching mechanism switches the wind direction of the blowing air which blows off from a blower outlet at least between a 1st direction and a 2nd direction. The first direction is horizontal or nearly horizontal. The second direction is a direction that is vertically downward or close to vertical downward. Switching mechanism control unit, when the outlet air is blown in the first direction and the temperature variation has occurred in the air conditioning target space is detected or estimated, temporarily blowing air is blown in the second direction, The operation of the wind direction switching mechanism is controlled so as to generate an air flow along the wall to which the casing is attached .

  The air conditioning indoor unit according to the first aspect of the present invention detects temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space when air is blown out in the first direction (horizontal or near horizontal) and air conditioning is performed (including dehumidification). If estimated, air is blown out in the second direction (vertically downward or in a direction close to vertical downward). As a result, the air-conditioned air is supplied to the vicinity of the vertically lower part of the air-conditioning indoor unit that is difficult for the blown air to reach when the air is blown in the first direction. Excellent comfort in the target space can be realized.

  An air conditioning indoor unit according to a second aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit according to the first aspect, and further includes a temperature unevenness detection sensor for detecting temperature unevenness and a temperature unevenness detection unit. The temperature unevenness detection unit detects that temperature unevenness occurs in the air conditioning target space based on the measurement result of the temperature unevenness detection sensor. The switching mechanism control unit controls the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism so that the blowing air is temporarily blown in the second direction based on the detection result of the temperature unevenness detection unit when the blowing air is blowing in the first direction.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the second aspect of the present invention, the occurrence of temperature unevenness can be accurately detected based on the measurement result of the sensor, and the temperature unevenness can be eliminated by controlling the direction of the blown air.

  The air conditioning indoor unit according to the third aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit according to the second aspect, and the air conditioning indoor unit is a wall-hanging type. The temperature unevenness detection sensor includes a first temperature sensor. The first temperature sensor measures the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the third aspect of the present invention, temperature unevenness is detected based on the measurement result of the first temperature sensor that measures the temperature below the wall-mounted air conditioning indoor unit. It is easy to detect.

  The air conditioning indoor unit according to the fourth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit according to the third aspect, and the temperature unevenness detection sensor further includes a second temperature sensor. A 2nd temperature sensor measures the temperature of the air-conditioning object space away from the wall in which the air-conditioning indoor unit was installed. A temperature nonuniformity detection part detects the temperature nonuniformity of air-conditioning object space based on the comparison result of the measured value of a 1st temperature sensor, and the measured value of a 2nd temperature sensor.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the temperature unevenness is based on the measurement result of the temperature of the air conditioning target space at a position away from the wall where the air conditioning indoor unit is installed and the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit. Since it is detected, it is easy to detect accurately without missing the temperature unevenness.

  An air conditioning indoor unit according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit according to the third aspect, and the temperature unevenness detection unit is provided in the air conditioning target space based on a change over time of the temperature measured by the first temperature sensor. Detects temperature unevenness.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, only the first temperature sensor that measures the temperature below the wall-mounted air conditioning indoor unit is used, that is, the temperature unevenness is detected with a relatively simple configuration, and the blown air The temperature unevenness can be eliminated by controlling the wind direction.

  An air conditioning indoor unit according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, and further includes a temperature unevenness estimation unit. The temperature unevenness estimation unit estimates that the temperature unevenness is generated in the air-conditioning target space when the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction exceeds the first time. The switching mechanism control unit controls the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism so that the blowing air is temporarily blown in the second direction based on the estimation result by the temperature unevenness estimation unit when the blowing air is blowing in the first direction.

  In the air conditioner indoor unit according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the occurrence of temperature unevenness is appropriately estimated based on the characteristic that temperature unevenness is likely to occur directly under the air conditioner indoor unit when air is blown in the first direction. It is possible to eliminate the occurrence of temperature unevenness and to suppress the occurrence of temperature unevenness.

  Even if the air conditioning indoor unit has a temperature unevenness detection sensor, there may be a case where temperature unevenness occurs at a position where measurement is difficult with the temperature unevenness detection sensor depending on the situation. However, here, since the occurrence of temperature unevenness is estimated when the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction for a long time, even if the temperature unevenness of the air-conditioning target space is difficult to detect by the sensor, the temperature unevenness is reduced. Can be resolved.

  An air conditioning indoor unit according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit according to any of the first to sixth aspects, further comprising a space temperature sensor, a space humidity sensor, and a control permission unit. . The space temperature sensor detects the temperature of the air-conditioning target space. The space humidity sensor detects the humidity of the air-conditioning target space. The control permission unit permits the switching mechanism control unit to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism. When the temperature detected by the space temperature sensor is equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature and the humidity detected by the space humidity sensor is equal to or lower than the predetermined humidity for a second time or longer, the control permission unit It is permitted to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism so that air blows in the second direction.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, priority is given to blowing out air in the first direction in which a circulating airflow is easily generated in the air conditioning target space until the temperature and humidity of the air conditioning target space satisfy predetermined conditions. As a result, on the premise of ensuring the comfort of the entire air-conditioning space, it is possible to eliminate the occurrence of temperature unevenness and further improve the comfort.

  The air conditioner indoor unit according to the eighth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioner indoor unit according to the seventh aspect, and the control permission unit is configured so that the air conditioner indoor unit starts blowing air blown in the first direction for the first time after the operation is started. When the continuous operation time exceeds the third time, the switching mechanism control unit further permits the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism to be controlled so that the blown air is blown out in the second direction.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit pertaining to the eighth aspect of the present invention, immediately after the start of the operation, in which temperature unevenness is particularly likely to occur, the second of the blown air regardless of whether the temperature and humidity of the air-conditioning target space satisfy predetermined conditions. Balloons in the direction are allowed. Therefore, the occurrence of temperature unevenness immediately after the start of operation is easily eliminated.

  The air conditioning indoor unit pertaining to the ninth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit pertaining to any of the first to eighth aspects, further comprising an air volume control unit that controls the air volume of the fan. The wind direction switching mechanism switches the wind direction of the blown air continuously from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction. The air volume control unit changes the air volume of the fan in the first direction while the air direction switching mechanism switches the air direction of the blown air from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction. And it reduces compared with the air volume of the fan at the time of blowing off blowing air in the 2nd direction.

  With the air conditioning indoor unit pertaining to the ninth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to avoid direct wind from hitting a person in the air-conditioning target space, and comfort is unlikely to be impaired.

  An air conditioning indoor unit according to a tenth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning indoor unit according to the ninth aspect, wherein the air volume control unit blows out the air volume of the fan when blowing air in the second direction in the first direction. Decrease compared to the air volume of the fan when blowing air.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit pertaining to the tenth aspect of the present invention, the amount of air is reduced when air is blown vertically downward, so that direct hitting of people in the air-conditioning target space is easily suppressed, resulting in a decrease in comfort. It is easy to be prevented.

  The air conditioning indoor unit according to the first aspect of the present invention detects temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space when air is blown out in the first direction (horizontal or near horizontal) and air conditioning is performed (including dehumidification). If estimated, air is blown out in the second direction (vertically downward or in a direction close to vertical downward). As a result, the air-conditioned air is supplied to the vicinity of the vertically lower part of the air-conditioning indoor unit that is difficult for the blown air to reach when the air is blown in the first direction. Excellent comfort in the target space can be realized.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the second to fourth aspects of the present invention, the temperature unevenness can be accurately detected based on the measurement result of the sensor, and the temperature unevenness can be eliminated by controlling the direction of the blown air.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit pertaining to the fifth aspect of the present invention, temperature unevenness can be detected with a relatively simple configuration, and temperature unevenness can be eliminated by controlling the direction of the blown air.

  In the air conditioner indoor unit according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the occurrence of temperature unevenness is appropriately estimated based on the characteristic that temperature unevenness is likely to occur directly under the air conditioner indoor unit when air is blown in the first direction. It is possible to eliminate the occurrence of temperature unevenness and to suppress the occurrence of temperature unevenness.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to eliminate the occurrence of temperature unevenness and further improve the comfort on the premise of ensuring the comfort of the entire air conditioning target space.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit pertaining to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the occurrence of temperature unevenness is likely to be eliminated even immediately after the start of operation, where temperature unevenness is particularly likely to occur.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit according to the ninth aspect or the tenth aspect of the present invention, it is easy to suppress direct wind from hitting a person in the air-conditioning target space, and it is easy to prevent a decrease in comfort.

It is a schematic perspective view of the air-conditioning indoor unit which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the air conditioning indoor unit of FIG. It is a block diagram of the air-conditioning indoor unit of FIG. It is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the air-conditioning indoor unit of FIG. 1 in the state which blows off air in the 2nd direction. It is a flowchart explaining the switching process of the air direction of the blowing air at the time of the circulation mode cooling operation of the air-conditioning indoor unit of FIG.

  Hereinafter, an air conditioning indoor unit 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are merely specific examples of the present invention and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention.

  In the following description, for convenience of explanation, the arrangement and orientation may be described using expressions such as “up”, “down”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “back”, and the like. Unless otherwise specified, these expressions follow the arrows shown in the figure.

(1) Overall Overview The air conditioning indoor unit 10 constitutes a part of an air conditioner together with an air conditioning outdoor unit (not shown). The air conditioner cools and heats the air-conditioning target space RS in which the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed by circulating the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit including the indoor heat exchanger 13 of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 (see FIG. 2). . The cooling here includes dehumidification of the air-conditioning target space RS. In the present embodiment, the air conditioner can perform cooling and heating of the air-conditioning target space RS, but is not limited thereto. The air conditioner may be an air conditioner dedicated to cooling.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the air conditioning indoor unit 10. FIG. 2 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 in FIG. 1 cut along a plane perpendicular to the left-right direction at the approximate center in the left-right direction, and the cross section seen from the right side. 1 and 2 depict the air conditioning indoor unit 10 in operation. 1 and 2 particularly depict the air conditioning indoor unit 10 when air is blown out in a first direction described later from an outlet 27 described later. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the air conditioning indoor unit 10.

  The air conditioning indoor unit 10 is a wall-hanging type and is installed on the wall WL (see FIGS. 1 and 2). Specifically, the rear part of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is attached to the wall WL.

  The air conditioning indoor unit 10 mainly includes a casing 11, an air filter 12, an indoor heat exchanger 13, an indoor fan 14, a bottom frame 16, a wind direction switching mechanism 30, a floor temperature sensor 70, a space temperature sensor 71, a space humidity sensor 72, and A control unit 80 is provided (see FIGS. 1 to 3).

(2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Casing The casing 11 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape extending long in the left-right direction. The casing 11 accommodates therein an air filter 12, an indoor heat exchanger 13, an indoor fan 14, a bottom frame 16, a wind direction switching mechanism 30, a control unit 80, and the like.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the casing 11 is provided with a top surface portion 11a, a front surface portion 11b, a right surface portion 11d, a left surface portion 11e, a bottom surface portion 11f, and a back plate 28 covered with a decorative plate 20. And a rear surface portion 11c. The air conditioning indoor unit 10 is attached to the wall WL by attaching the back plate 28 to a mounting plate (not shown) installed on the wall WL by screwing or the like.

  A top surface suction port 25 is provided in the top surface portion 11a of the casing 11 (see FIG. 2). When the indoor fan 14 is driven, air is sucked into the casing 11 from the top surface suction port 25. The air in the air-conditioning target space RS taken from the top surface inlet 25 passes through the air filter 12 and the indoor heat exchanger 13 and is sent to the indoor fan 14.

  A decorative plate 20 (front panel 21) whose upper end is rotatably supported by a hinge (not shown) is attached to the front surface portion 11b of the casing 11 (see FIG. 2). The front panel 21 is separated from the decorative plate 20 (right plate 22) covering the right side portion 11d and the decorative plate 20 (left plate 23) covering the left side portion 11e (see FIGS. 1 and 2).

  A bottom surface suction port 26 is provided in the bottom surface portion 11f of the casing 11 (see FIG. 2). The bottom surface suction port 26 is provided with an opening / closing plate 17 for opening and closing the bottom surface suction port 26. Moreover, the blower outlet 27 is provided in the bottom face part 11f (refer FIG. 2). The bottom suction port 26 is provided behind the air outlet 27.

  The bottom suction port 26 is connected to the space above the air filter 12 in the casing 11 by the suction flow path 16a (see FIG. 2). The suction flow path 16a is a flow path that is formed behind the indoor fan 14 and extends in the vertical direction on the rear side of the interior of the casing 11. When the indoor fan 14 is driven in a state where the opening / closing plate 17 is opened, air is sucked from the bottom surface suction port 26. The air sucked from the bottom suction port 26 passes through the suction flow path 16 a, passes through the air filter 12 and the indoor heat exchanger 13, and is sent to the indoor fan 14.

  The blower outlet 27 is a substantially rectangular opening having a long side in the left-right direction. The blower outlet 27 has an upper edge 27a that is disposed on the front side and extends in the left-right direction, and a lower edge 27b that is disposed on the rear side and extends in the left-right direction (see FIG. 2). The outlet 27 is connected to the inside of the casing 11 by a scroll air outlet channel 16b (see FIG. 2). The scroll air blowing flow path 16b extends from the position immediately below the indoor fan 14 toward the blowout outlet 27 diagonally forward and downward. The room air sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26 is subjected to heat exchange in the indoor heat exchanger 13, and then blown out from the blowout port 27 into the room through the scroll air blowing channel 16b.

(2-2) Air Filter The air filter 12 is a filter for collecting dust in the air of the air conditioning target space RS sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26. The air filter 12 prevents dust from adhering to the surface of the indoor heat exchanger 13. The air filter 12 is disposed between the top surface portion 11a and the front surface portion 11b of the casing 11 and the indoor heat exchanger 13 (see FIG. 2). The air filter 12 is configured to be detachable for maintenance.

(2-3) Indoor heat exchanger The indoor heat exchanger 13 includes a plurality of fins and a plurality of heat transfer tubes that penetrate the plurality of fins. The indoor heat exchanger 13 is attached to the bottom frame 16 accommodated in the casing 11.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the indoor heat exchanger 13 has a substantially inverted V shape with both ends directed downward in a side view. The indoor heat exchanger 13 is disposed above the indoor fan 14 so as to cover the indoor fan 14.

  The indoor heat exchanger 13 functions as an evaporator when an air conditioner that constitutes a part of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 cools the air conditioning target space RS (including dehumidification). In other words, when the air conditioner cools the air-conditioning target space RS, the indoor heat exchanger 13 exchanges heat with the air sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26 to take heat from the air. . More specifically, when the air conditioner cools the air-conditioning target space RS, between the air sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26 and the refrigerant flowing through the heat transfer tube of the indoor heat exchanger 13. Heat exchange takes place and heat is taken away from the air.

  On the other hand, the indoor heat exchanger 13 functions as a condenser when the air conditioner heats the air-conditioning target space RS. In other words, when the air conditioner heats the air-conditioning target space RS, the indoor heat exchanger 13 exchanges heat with the air sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26 to give heat to the air. . More specifically, when the air conditioner heats the air-conditioning target space RS, between the air sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26 and the refrigerant flowing through the heat transfer tube of the indoor heat exchanger 13. The heat exchange takes place in the air and heat is given to the air.

(2-4) Indoor fan The indoor fan 14 is arrange | positioned in the approximate center part inside the casing 11, as FIG. 2 shows. The indoor fan 14 is a substantially cylindrical cross flow fan extending in the longitudinal direction (left-right direction) of the air conditioning indoor unit 10. When the indoor fan 14 is rotationally driven, the air in the air-conditioning target space RS is sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26, passes through the air filter 12, and then passes through the indoor heat exchanger 13. And the indoor fan 14 blows off the air heat-exchanged by the indoor heat exchanger 13 (air-conditioned) from the blower outlet 27 to air-conditioning object space RS.

(2-5) Bottom Frame The bottom frame 16 supports the air filter 12, the indoor heat exchanger 13, and the indoor fan 14 (see FIG. 2). In the casing 11, a suction channel 16 a and a scroll air outlet channel 16 b are formed by the bottom frame 16 (see FIG. 2). The scroll air outlet channel 16b is a space sandwiched between a channel upper surface 16c disposed on the front side and a channel lower surface 16d disposed on the rear side (see FIG. 2).

(2-6) Wind Direction Switching Mechanism The wind direction switching mechanism 30 is a mechanism that switches the wind direction of the blown-out air that is blown out from the outlet 27 and adjusts the wind direction.

  The wind direction switching mechanism 30 has a first upper flap 40, a second upper flap 50, and a lower flap 60 that extend in the left-right direction and are used to switch the wind direction of the blown air in the vertical direction (see FIGS. 1 and 2). ). Further, the wind direction switching mechanism 30 has a plurality of vertical flaps 15 used for switching the wind direction of the blown air in the left-right direction (see FIGS. 1 and 3).

  The 1st upper flap 40 and the 2nd upper flap 50 are provided in the upper edge 27a side of the blower outlet 27 (refer FIG. 2). The lower flap 60 is provided on the lower edge 27b side of the air outlet 27 (see FIG. 2).

  The first upper flap 40 is in a state shown in FIG. 2 (a state in which air is blown out from the air outlet 27 in a first direction to be described later), and a first upper flap upper surface 41 disposed in the upper portion and a first upper flap 40 disposed in the lower portion. 1 upper flap lower surface 42. In the state of FIG. 2, the first upper flap 40 has a first end 43 disposed on the front side and a second end 44 disposed on the rear side. The second upper flap 50 has a second upper flap upper surface 51 disposed in the upper portion and a second upper flap lower surface 52 disposed in the lower portion in the state of FIG. 2 (see FIG. 2). In the state of FIG. 2, the second upper flap 50 has a first end 53 disposed on the front side and a second end 54 disposed on the rear side. In the state of FIG. 2, the lower flap 60 has a lower flap upper surface 61 disposed at the upper portion and a lower flap lower surface 62 disposed at the lower portion. In the state of FIG. 2, the lower flap 60 has a first end 63 disposed on the front side and a second end 64 disposed on the rear side.

  The first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 are each rotatably attached to the casing 11. The wind direction switching mechanism 30 includes a flap driving motor (not shown) that drives each of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60. The first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 are configured to be independently rotatable by a flap driving motor controlled by the control unit 80. The first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 are driven by a flap driving motor and rotate around a rotation center 45, a rotation center 55, and a rotation center 65 that extend to the left and right, respectively ( (See FIG. 4). The rotation center 45, the rotation center 55, and the rotation center 65 are in the vicinity of the second end 44 of the first upper flap 40, the second end 54 of the second upper flap 50, and the second end 64 of the lower flap 60, respectively. Be placed. In FIG. 2, drawing of the rotation center 45, the rotation center 55, and the rotation center 65 is omitted.

  The first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 are rotated by a flap driving motor during operation of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 and take a predetermined posture, alone or in cooperation with each other, The air direction of the air blown out from the air outlet 27 is adjusted in the vertical direction. By adjusting the wind direction by the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60, the air blown out from the air outlet 27 is substantially horizontally forward, forwardly downward, or substantially vertically downwardly. Blow out. The lower flap 60 opens the air outlet 27 when the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is operated, and closes the air outlet 27 when the operation is stopped. When the operation is stopped, the second upper flap 50 approaches the casing 11 and takes a posture like a part of the casing 11 together with the decorative plate 20.

  On the rear side of the first upper flap 40 (upstream side in the blowing direction of the indoor fan 14), a plurality of vertical flaps 15 having a plane intersecting the left-right direction are provided (see FIGS. 1 and 4). . In FIG. 2, the drawing of the vertical flap 15 is omitted. The wind direction switching mechanism 30 includes a flap driving motor (not shown) that drives the vertical flap 15. The vertical flap 15 is configured to be rotatable around a rotation center (not shown) extending vertically by a flap driving motor controlled by the control unit 80. The vertical flap 15 adjusts the air direction of the air blown from the air outlet 27 to the left and right.

(2-6-1) Direction of blown air during circulation mode cooling operation For circulation mode cooling operation (for cooling (including dehumidification) of the air-conditioning target space RS, a circulation mode described later is used to conditioned room). The air direction of the air blown out from the air outlet 27 when the machine 10 is operated will be described below. Here, the wind direction of the blown air in which the wind direction is adjusted (switched) by the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 will be described.

  The air direction switching mechanism 30 at the time of the circulation mode cooling operation at least determines the air direction of the air blown out from the air outlet 27 between the first direction that is horizontal or nearly horizontal and the second direction that is vertically downward or nearly vertically downward. Switch. Note that the air direction of the blown air blown out from the blower outlet 27 during the circulation mode cooling operation may be further switched to a direction other than the first direction and the second direction (for example, forward downward) as necessary. .

  Note that the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is configured to switch the first upper flap 40, the first flap 40, and the second upper flap 40 when the air direction of the air blown out from the air outlet 27 is switched from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction. 2 The postures of the upper flap 50 and the lower flap 60 are continuously changed. In other words, the wind direction switching mechanism 30 switches the wind direction of the blown-out air blown from the outlet 27 by continuously changing from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction.

(A) First direction The first direction is horizontal or nearly horizontal.

  The air direction switching mechanism 30 switches the air direction of the blown air blown out from the air outlet 27 to the first direction (sets to the first direction) during the circulation mode cooling operation. The circulation mode is an air conditioning indoor unit that sends airflow from the air outlet 27 mainly in the first direction to the back of the air conditioning target space RS to circulate the air-conditioned air in the air conditioning target space RS. 10 operation modes.

  When air is blown out from the air outlet 27 in the first direction (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as “air blowing out in the first direction for simplification of explanation), the air blown out from the air outlet 27 is the ceiling, air conditioning room For the air conditioning indoor unit 10 facing the wall WL on which the air conditioner 10 is installed, the ceiling on the back wall (the wall on the front side of the air conditioning indoor unit 10), the floor, and the wall WL on which the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed , Generally flowing along the wall and floor, and a circulating airflow is generated in the air-conditioning target space RS. In order to allow the airflow to reach the depth of the air conditioning target space RS, it is preferable to create a laminar flow having a high wind speed without diffusing the air at the air outlet 27.

  At the time of blowing in the first direction, the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 are controlled by a control unit 80, which will be described later, as shown in FIGS. Take a posture. That is, at the time of blowing in the first direction, the first upper flap 40 takes a posture such that the first upper flap lower surface 42 smoothly extends the flow channel upper surface 16c of the scroll air blowing flow channel 16b forward. Further, at the time of blowing in the first direction, the lower flap 60 takes a posture such that the lower flap upper surface 61 smoothly extends the flow path lower surface 16d of the scroll air blowing flow path 16b forward. That is, at the time of blowing in the first direction, the same situation is created as if the scroll air blowing flow path 16b was extended forward by the first upper flap 40 and the lower flap 60. As a result, a laminar flow having a high wind speed is created so that the airflow easily reaches the depth of the air conditioning target space RS.

  The second upper flap 50 provided on the downstream side in the air blowing direction from the first upper flap 40 is a pseudo outlet of the first upper flap 40 that is an outlet of the scroll air outlet passage 16b. The direction of the air blown out from the portion surrounded by the first end 43 and the first end 63 of the lower flap 60 is finely adjusted in the vertical direction. In the state shown in FIG. 2, the second upper flap 50 has a posture in which the resistance to the blown air becomes as small as possible and the air direction blown slightly downward from the horizontal is slightly lifted. ing.

  Note that the postures of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 at the time of blowing in the first direction described here are merely examples. The postures of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 are appropriately determined so that the air direction of the air blown out from the air outlet 27 is in the first direction (horizontal direction or a direction close to the horizontal direction). It only has to be done.

(B) Second direction The second direction is a direction that is vertically downward or nearly vertically downward.

  The wind direction switching mechanism 30 temporarily detects the wind direction of the blown-out air that is blown out from the air outlet 27 when it is detected or estimated that temperature unevenness occurs in the air conditioning target space RS during the cooling mode cooling operation. Switch in two directions. The process of switching the air direction of the blown-out air blown out from the blow-out port 27 during the circulation mode cooling operation will be described later.

  When air is blown out from the air outlet 27 in the second direction (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as the air blowing in the second direction for simplification of description), the air outlet indoor unit 10 is installed from the air outlet 27 to the wall WL. The flow of the air along is produced, and the air-conditioned air is sent directly under the air conditioning indoor unit 10.

  At the time of blowing in the second direction, the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 are controlled by the control unit 80, which will be described later, and assume the posture shown in FIG. . When the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 are in the posture as shown in FIG. 4, from the outlet 27 to the rear side of the outlet 27 (the wall WL side to which the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is attached). ) Is generated. When blowing in the second direction, the lower flap 60 rotates so that the first end 63 is positioned behind the second end 64, and the lower flap upper surface 61 is on the upper end side (second end 64 side) with respect to the vertical surface. Will be tilted forward. At the time of blowing in the second direction, the second upper flap 50 rotates so that the first end 53 is located behind the second end 54, and the second upper flap upper surface 51 is at the upper end side with respect to the vertical surface ( The second end 54 side) is inclined forward. Further, at the time of blowing in the second direction, the first upper flap 40 rotates so that the first end 43 is located rearward of the second end 44, and the first upper flap upper surface 41 is located on the upper end side with respect to the vertical surface ( The second end 44 side) is inclined forward.

  Preferably, a recess 66 is formed on the second end 64 side of the lower flap lower surface 62. The lower flap 60 is configured such that the lower edge 27b of the air outlet 27 enters a recess 66 formed in the lower flap lower surface 62 when blowing in the second direction. By being configured in this way, the first end 63 of the lower flap 60 can be moved rearward as compared with the case where the recess 66 is not formed on the lower flap lower surface 62, and the air current flows from the higher position to the wall WL. Can be kept.

  Note that the postures of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 at the time of blowing in the second direction described here are merely examples. The postures of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 are appropriately determined so that the air direction of the air blown out from the air outlet 27 is in the second direction (vertically downward or nearly vertically downward). Just do it. For example, the posture of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 when blowing in the second direction is such that the first upper flap upper surface 41, the second upper flap upper surface 51, and the lower flap upper surface 61 are in the second direction. You may determine so that it may become a substantially vertical surface at the time of blowing.

(2-7) Floor Temperature Sensor The floor temperature sensor 70 is an example of a temperature unevenness detection sensor that detects temperature unevenness in the air conditioning target space RS.

  The floor temperature sensor 70 is a sensor that detects the indoor floor temperature. As the floor temperature sensor 70, sensors using various detection methods can be employed. Here, the floor temperature sensor 70 is a thermopile array sensor. The floor temperature sensor 70 is provided, for example, on the bottom surface portion 11f of the casing 11 (see FIG. 1).

  The floor temperature sensor 70 detects the floor temperature of the air conditioning target space RS for each area. For example, the floor temperature sensor 70 divides the floor of the air conditioning target space RS into 8 × 8 areas and detects the temperature for each area. The floor temperature sensor 70 detects the temperature of the floor near the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed as the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit 10. In addition, the floor temperature sensor 70 detects the temperature of the floor surface away from the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed as the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS away from the wall WL. That is, the floor temperature sensor 70 is an example of a first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor.

  In the present embodiment, the floor temperature sensor 70 functions as both the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor, but is not limited to this. For example, the floor temperature sensor 70 may include a first floor temperature sensor as a first temperature sensor and a second floor temperature sensor as a second temperature sensor different from the first floor temperature sensor.

(2-8) Space Temperature Sensor The space temperature sensor 71 is a sensor that detects the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS. The space temperature sensor 71 is disposed, for example, in the vicinity of the top surface inlet 25, and detects the temperature of air taken into the air conditioning indoor unit 10 as the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS. In addition, the installation location of the space temperature sensor 71 shown here is an example, Comprising: The space temperature sensor 71 may be provided in the other location which can detect the temperature representative of the temperature of air-conditioning object space RS.

(2-9) Spatial Humidity Sensor The spatial humidity sensor 72 is a sensor that detects the humidity of the air conditioning target space RS. The space humidity sensor 72 is disposed, for example, in the vicinity of the top surface suction port 25, and detects the humidity of the air taken into the air conditioning indoor unit 10 as the humidity of the air conditioning target space RS. In addition, the installation location of the space humidity sensor 72 shown here is an example, and the space humidity sensor 72 may be provided in another place where humidity representing the humidity of the air-conditioning target space RS can be detected.

(2-10) Control Unit The control unit 80 mainly includes a CPU (not shown) and a memory (not shown). The control unit 80 controls the operation of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 by executing a program stored in the memory.

  The control unit 80 is electrically connected to the indoor fan 14 of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 and the wind direction switching mechanism 30 (the flap driving motor of the wind direction switching mechanism 30). The control unit 80 is electrically connected to various sensors including the floor temperature sensor 70, the space temperature sensor 71, and the space humidity sensor 72 of the air conditioning indoor unit 10. The control unit 80 is electrically connected to a control unit (not shown) included in the air conditioner outdoor unit that constitutes the air conditioner together with the air conditioner indoor unit 10. The control unit 80 is configured to be communicable with a remote controller (not shown) used by a user of the air conditioner to give a command to the air conditioner.

  The control unit 80 is based on the measurement results of various sensors, the signals transmitted from the control unit of the air conditioner outdoor unit, the instructions of the air conditioner user transmitted from the remote controller, and the like. To control the operation.

  Here, of the control of the operation of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 by the control unit 80, the control of the operation of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 during the circulation mode cooling operation will be mainly described.

  The control unit 80 includes a switching mechanism control unit 81, a control permission unit 82, a fan control unit 83, a temperature unevenness detection unit 84, as functional units particularly related to control of the operation of the air conditioning indoor unit 10 during the circulation mode cooling operation. A temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 is included.

(2-10-1) Switching Mechanism Control Unit The switching mechanism control unit 81 controls the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the wind direction of the blown-out air blown from the outlet 27 is switched.

  The switching mechanism control unit 81 is provided from the air outlet 27 in the direction specified by the air conditioner user with the remote control, or in the direction according to the air conditioner operation mode or airflow mode specified by the air conditioner user with the remote control. The operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled so that the wind direction of the blown out air is switched. The operation mode of the air conditioner includes an automatic mode, a cooling mode, a dehumidifying mode, a heating mode, an air blowing mode, and the like. The automatic mode is an operation mode in which the control unit 80 automatically selects the operation content according to the temperature, humidity, and the like of the air conditioning target space RS. The airflow mode is a type of the mode of blowing out the blown air blown out from the blowout port 27, and the above-described circulation mode is one of the airflow modes.

  Here, in particular, the operation of the switching mechanism controller 81 during the circulation mode cooling operation will be described. Circulation mode During cooling operation, in other words, the user of the air conditioner selects the automatic mode, cooling mode or dehumidification mode as the operation mode of the air conditioner, and the circulation mode as the airflow mode, and the air conditioner operates in the cooling operation. Or when dehumidifying operation is performed.

  The switching mechanism control unit 81 normally controls the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the air blown out from the air-conditioning indoor unit 10 in the first direction during the circulation mode cooling operation.

  However, if the switching mechanism control unit 81 detects or estimates that the temperature unevenness is generated in the air-conditioning target space RS when the air blown out from the air-conditioning indoor unit 10 in the first direction, the switching mechanism control unit 81 temporarily blows out the air. The operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled so that air blows out in the second direction. More specifically, when the blown air is blown out from the air conditioning indoor unit 10 in the first direction, the switching mechanism control unit 81 temporarily changes the blown air based on the detection result by the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 described later. The operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled so as to blow out in the second direction. In addition, when the blown air is blown out from the air conditioning indoor unit 10 in the first direction, the switching mechanism control unit 81 temporarily blows the blown air in the second direction based on the estimation result by the temperature unevenness estimating unit 85 described later. The operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled so as to blow out.

(2-10-2) Control permission unit The control permission unit 82 is a functional unit that permits the switching mechanism control unit 81 to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30. In other words, the control permission unit 82 is a functional unit that prohibits the switching mechanism control unit 81 from controlling the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30. In the control permission unit 82, in particular, when air is blown out from the air conditioning indoor unit 10 in the first direction, the switching mechanism control unit 81 controls the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30, and the wind direction of the blown air is changed to the second direction. And allow switching.

  As described above, the switching mechanism control unit 81 is based on the detection result by the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 or the estimation result by the temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 when the air blown out from the air conditioning indoor unit 10 in the first direction. The operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled. However, when the control permission unit 82 does not permit, even if it is detected or estimated that the temperature unevenness is generated in the air conditioning target space RS, the switching mechanism control unit 81 changes the air direction of the blown air in the first direction. The operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 cannot be controlled so as to switch to the second direction.

  Under what conditions the control permission unit 82 permits the switching mechanism control unit 81 to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 will be described later.

(2-10-3) Fan Control Unit The fan control unit 83 controls the operation / stop of the indoor fan 14 and the air volume of the indoor fan 14 (the number of rotations of the fan motor). The fan control unit 83 is an example of an air volume control unit. The fan control unit 83 blows out from the air outlet 27 to the air volume specified by the air conditioner user with the remote control, or to the air flow according to the operation mode of the air conditioner specified by the air conditioner user or the air flow mode. The operation of the indoor fan 14 is controlled so that the air volume of the blown air is switched.

  During the cooling mode cooling operation, the fan control unit 83 is during the air direction switching mechanism 30 switching the air direction of the blown air from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction. The air volume of the indoor fan 14 is reduced as compared with the air volume of the indoor fan 14 when the blown air is blown out in the first direction and the second direction. During the cooling mode cooling operation, the fan control unit 83 is during the air direction switching mechanism 30 switching the air direction of the blown air from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction. The air volume of the indoor fan 14 is controlled to the minimum air volume. Further, the fan control unit 83 compares the air volume of the indoor fan 14 when blowing the blown air in the second direction during the circulation mode cooling operation with the air volume of the indoor fan 14 when blowing the blown air in the first direction. Decrease. The fan control unit 83 can avoid direct air hitting a person in the air-conditioning target space RS by performing such air volume control of the indoor fan 14 during the circulation mode cooling operation, thereby reducing comfort. It is easy to be prevented.

(2-10-4) Temperature Unevenness Detection Unit The temperature unevenness detection unit 84 detects the occurrence of temperature unevenness in the air conditioning target space RS based on the measurement result of the floor temperature sensor 70. The temperature unevenness detection unit 84 detects that temperature unevenness occurs in the air conditioning target space RS at least during the circulation mode cooling operation.

  At the time of the circulation mode cooling operation, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 has generated temperature unevenness in the air conditioning target space RS based on the comparison result between the near side temperature and the back side temperature transmitted from the floor temperature sensor 70. Is detected. Here, the near side temperature means a measured value of the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit 10 measured by the floor temperature sensor 70 (the temperature of the floor near the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed). To do. The back side temperature means a measured value of the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS separated from the wall WL measured by the floor temperature sensor 70 (the temperature of the floor surface away from the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed). Specifically, during the circulation mode cooling operation, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 determines that the front side temperature is the back side when the difference between the front side temperature and the back side temperature is a predetermined value or more. When it is higher than the temperature by a predetermined value or more, it is detected that temperature unevenness has occurred in the air conditioning target space RS.

  In addition, the temperature nonuniformity detection part 84 may detect that the temperature nonuniformity has arisen in air-conditioning object space RS based on the comparison result of the near side temperature and back side temperature of a certain moment. Further, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 is based on a comparison result between the near side temperature and the far side temperature during a certain period (for example, 1 minute) (for example, the near side temperature is higher than the far side temperature by a predetermined value or more). You may detect that the temperature nonuniformity has arisen in air-conditioning object space RS when it continues for a certain period.

(2-10-5) Temperature nonuniformity estimation part The temperature nonuniformity estimation part 85 estimates that the temperature nonuniformity has arisen in air-conditioning object space RS. The temperature unevenness detection unit 84 estimates that temperature unevenness occurs in the air-conditioning target space RS at least during the circulation mode cooling operation.

  During the circulation mode cooling operation, the temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 estimates that the temperature unevenness occurs in the air-conditioning target space when the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction exceeds a predetermined time. .

(3) The process of switching the air direction of the blown air during the circulation mode cooling operation The process of switching the wind direction of the blown air performed during the circulation mode cooling operation will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  The air conditioner user selects the automatic mode, air conditioning mode or dehumidification mode as the air conditioner operation mode and the circulation mode as the airflow mode via the remote control, and instructs the air conditioner to start operation. When the mode is the automatic mode, when the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation is further selected by the control unit 80, the following series of processes is started. In the following description, for simplification of description, the case where the user of the air conditioner changes the operation mode or the airflow mode on the way is not considered.

  First, in step S <b> 1, the switching mechanism control unit 81 controls the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the wind direction of the blown-out air blown from the blower outlet 27 is the first direction. Specifically, the switching mechanism control unit 81 gives an instruction to a flap driving motor (not shown) of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 to change the postures of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 in the first direction. Change to the attitude when blowing out.

  Next, in step S2, it is determined whether or not the initial switching time has elapsed since the blown air started to blow in the first direction. The initial switching time is a preset time. The initial switching time is not limited, but is, for example, 10 minutes. If it is determined that the initial switching time has elapsed since the blown air started to blow in the first direction, the process proceeds to step S3. Step S2 is repeated until it is determined that the initial switching time has elapsed after the blown air starts to blow in the first direction.

  When the continuous operation time after the air conditioner indoor unit 10 starts to blow air in the first direction for the first time after the operation of the circulation mode cooling operation is started exceeds the initial switching time, the control permission unit 82 switches the switching mechanism control unit 81. However, it is comprised so that control of operation | movement of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 may be performed so that blowing air may blow off in a 2nd direction. Therefore, in step S3, the control permission unit 82 permits the switching mechanism control unit 81 to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the blown air is blown out in the second direction.

  The temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 is configured to estimate that temperature unevenness is generated in the air-conditioning target space RS when the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction exceeds the initial switching time. . Therefore, in step S3, the temperature nonuniformity estimation unit 85 estimates that temperature nonuniformity has occurred in the air conditioning target space RS.

  Next, in step S4, the switching mechanism control unit 81 allows the switching mechanism control unit 81 to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30, and the control permission unit 82 permits temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space RS. Therefore, the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled so that the blown air blows out in the second direction. Specifically, the switching mechanism control unit 81 gives an instruction to a flap driving motor (not shown) of the wind direction switching mechanism 30, and the postures of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 of the wind direction switching mechanism 30. Is changed to the posture at the time of blowing in the second direction.

  Next, in step S5, it is determined whether or not the second direction blowing set time has elapsed since the blowing air started to blow in the second direction. The second direction blowing set time is a time set in advance so as to eliminate temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space RS. Although the 2nd direction blowing setting time is not limited, it is 2 minutes, for example. If it is determined that the second direction blowing set time has elapsed since the blown air started to blow in the second direction, the process proceeds to step S6. Step S5 is repeated until it is determined that the second direction blowing set time has elapsed after the blown air starts blowing in the second direction.

  In step S6, the switching mechanism control unit 81 controls the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the blown air is blown out in the first direction. Specifically, the switching mechanism control unit 81 gives an instruction to a flap driving motor (not shown) of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 to change the postures of the first upper flap 40, the second upper flap 50, and the lower flap 60 in the first direction. Change to the attitude when blowing out. In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, in step S6, the control permission part 82 prohibits that the switching mechanism control part 81 controls operation | movement of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that blowing air blows off in a 2nd direction ( Release control permission).

  Next, in step S7, it is determined whether the air-conditioning target space RS satisfies the predetermined condition continuously for the first predetermined time. The predetermined condition here is a condition that the temperature detected by the spatial temperature sensor 71 is equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature and the humidity detected by the spatial humidity sensor is equal to or lower than the predetermined humidity. In addition, it is preferable that the value which estimates that the comfort of the user of an air conditioner is satisfy | filled is used for predetermined temperature and predetermined humidity. For example, although not limited, in step S7, a state in which the temperature detected by the space temperature sensor 71 is equal to or lower than the set temperature input from the remote controller and the humidity detected by the space humidity sensor 72 is equal to or less than 70% is 60 minutes. It is determined whether or not the above is continued. When it is determined that the air-conditioning target space RS satisfies the predetermined condition continuously for the first predetermined time, the process proceeds to step S8. The determination in step S7 is repeated until it is determined that the air-conditioning target space RS satisfies the predetermined condition continuously for the first predetermined time.

  When the control permission unit 82 is in the circulation mode cooling operation, the temperature detected by the spatial temperature sensor 71 is equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature and the humidity detected by the spatial humidity sensor 72 is equal to or lower than the predetermined humidity. The switching mechanism control unit 81 is configured to permit the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 to be controlled so that the blown air is blown out in the second direction. Therefore, in step S8, the control permission unit 82 permits the switching mechanism control unit 81 to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the blown air is blown out in the second direction.

  Next, in step S <b> 9, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 determines that temperature unevenness has occurred in the air conditioning target space RS based on the comparison result between the near side temperature and the back side temperature transmitted from the floor temperature sensor 70. Detect. As described above, the near side temperature is a measured value of the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit 10 measured by the floor temperature sensor 70, and the far side temperature is the air conditioning object separated from the wall WL measured by the floor temperature sensor 70. It is a measured value of the temperature of the space RS. Specifically, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 determines whether the near side temperature is higher than the back side temperature by a predetermined value or more. The temperature unevenness detection unit 84 detects that temperature unevenness occurs in the air conditioning target space RS when the near side temperature is higher than the back side temperature by a predetermined value or more (for example, at a certain moment or during a certain period) (step S10). ), The process returns to step S4. Since the process of step S4 has already been described, a description thereof will be omitted. If the near side temperature is not higher than the back side temperature by a predetermined value or more, the process proceeds to step S11.

  In step S11, it is determined whether or not the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction (the time since the last blown air direction is switched to the first direction) has exceeded the second predetermined time. Is done. The second predetermined time is a preset time. The second predetermined time is not limited, but is 90 minutes, for example. When it is determined that the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction has exceeded the second predetermined time, the process proceeds to step S12. If it is determined that the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction is shorter than the second predetermined time, the process returns to step S7. In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, when returning to step S7, the control permission part 82 controls the operation | movement of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the switching mechanism control part 81 blows off blowing air in a 2nd direction. Is prohibited (remove control permission).

  The temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 generates temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space RS when the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction exceeds the second predetermined time except during the process of step S3. It is configured to estimate that Therefore, in step S12, the temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 estimates that temperature unevenness occurs in the air conditioning target space RS. Then, the process proceeds to step S4. Since the process of step S4 has already been described, a description thereof will be omitted.

  Note that the above-described airflow direction switching process described with reference to FIG. 5 is an example of the airflow direction switching process performed during the circulation mode cooling operation, and is not limited thereto. For example, the airflow direction switching process performed during the cooling mode cooling operation may be designed such that the process from step S2 to step S6 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S7 after step S1 in FIG.

(4) Features (4-1)
The air conditioning indoor unit 10 of the present embodiment includes a casing 11, an indoor heat exchanger 13 as an example of a heat exchanger, an indoor fan 14 as an example of a fan, a wind direction switching mechanism 30, and a switching mechanism control unit 81. . The casing 11 is provided with a top surface suction port 25, a bottom surface suction port 26, and an air outlet 27. The indoor heat exchanger 13 exchanges heat with the air sucked from the top surface suction port 25 and the bottom surface suction port 26 to take heat from the air. The indoor fan 14 blows out the air heat-exchanged by the indoor heat exchanger 13 from the blower outlet 27. The wind direction switching mechanism 30 switches the wind direction of the blown-out air blown from the blower outlet 27 at least between the first direction and the second direction. The first direction is horizontal or nearly horizontal. The second direction is a direction that is vertically downward or close to vertical downward. When the switching mechanism control unit 81 detects or estimates that temperature unevenness occurs in the air-conditioning target space RS when the blown air is blown out in the first direction, the blown air is temporarily blown out in the second direction. The operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled.

  When the air conditioning indoor unit 10 detects or estimates the temperature unevenness of the air-conditioning target space RS when air is blown out in the first direction for cooling (including dehumidification), the air is blown out in the second direction. As a result, air-conditioned air is supplied to the vicinity of the vertically lower part of the air-conditioning indoor unit 10 where the blown-out air is difficult to reach by air blowing in the first direction, and temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space RS can be eliminated. The excellent comfort of the air-conditioning target space RS can be realized.

(4-2)
The air conditioning indoor unit 10 of the present embodiment includes a floor temperature sensor 70 and a temperature unevenness detection unit 84. The floor temperature sensor 70 is an example of a temperature unevenness detection sensor for detecting temperature unevenness. Based on the measurement result of the floor temperature sensor 70, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 detects that temperature unevenness occurs in the air conditioning target space RS. When the blown air is blown out in the first direction, the switching mechanism control unit 81 operates the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the blown air is blown out temporarily in the second direction based on the detection result by the temperature unevenness detecting unit 84. Control.

  The air conditioning indoor unit 10 can accurately detect the occurrence of temperature unevenness based on the measurement result of the floor temperature sensor 70, and can eliminate the temperature unevenness by controlling the direction of the blown air.

(4-3)
The air conditioning indoor unit 10 of this embodiment is a wall-hanging type. The floor temperature sensor 70 includes a first temperature sensor that measures the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit 10. In other words, the floor temperature sensor 70 functions as a first temperature sensor that measures the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit 10.

  Here, since the temperature unevenness is detected based on the measurement result of the first temperature sensor that measures the temperature below the wall-mounted air conditioning indoor unit 10, it is easy to accurately detect the temperature unevenness without overlooking it.

(4-4)
In the air conditioning indoor unit 10 of the present embodiment, the floor temperature sensor 70 includes a second temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS away from the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed. In other words, the floor temperature sensor 70 functions as a second temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS away from the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed. The temperature unevenness detection unit 84 uses a comparison result between the measured value (front side temperature) of the floor temperature sensor 70 as the first temperature sensor and the measured value (back side temperature) of the floor temperature sensor 70 as the second temperature sensor. Based on this, temperature unevenness in the air conditioning target space RS is detected.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit 10, temperature unevenness is detected based on the measurement results of the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS at a position away from the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed and the temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit 10. Therefore, it is easy to detect accurately without overlooking the temperature unevenness.

(4-5)
The air conditioning indoor unit 10 of this embodiment includes a temperature unevenness estimation unit 85. The temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 estimates that temperature unevenness occurs in the air-conditioning target space RS when the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction exceeds the first time. When the blown air is blown out in the first direction, the switching mechanism control unit 81 operates the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the blown air is temporarily blown out in the second direction based on the estimation result by the temperature unevenness estimating unit 85. Control.

  Specifically, immediately after the start of the circulation cooling operation, the temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 performs air conditioning when the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction exceeds the initial switching time. It is estimated that temperature unevenness has occurred in the target space RS (see FIG. 5). At other timings, the temperature unevenness estimation unit 85 indicates that temperature unevenness occurs in the air-conditioning target space RS when the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction exceeds the second predetermined time. Estimate (see FIG. 5).

  The air conditioning indoor unit 10 appropriately estimates the occurrence of temperature unevenness based on the characteristic that temperature unevenness is likely to occur directly under the air conditioning indoor unit 10 when air is blown out in the first direction, and eliminates temperature unevenness. It is possible to suppress the occurrence of temperature unevenness.

  The air conditioning indoor unit 10 has a floor temperature sensor 70 as a temperature unevenness detection sensor. However, depending on the situation (for example, when there is an obstacle), temperature unevenness may occur at a position where measurement is difficult with the floor temperature sensor 70. Here, since the occurrence of temperature unevenness is estimated when the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction for a long time, even if the temperature unevenness of the air-conditioning target space RS is difficult to detect by the sensor, the temperature unevenness is eliminated. can do.

(4-6)
The air conditioning indoor unit 10 of this embodiment includes a space temperature sensor 71, a space humidity sensor 72, and a control permission unit 82. The space temperature sensor 71 detects the temperature of the air conditioning target space RS. The space humidity sensor 72 detects the humidity of the air conditioning target space RS. The control permission unit 82 permits the switching mechanism control unit 81 to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30. The control permission unit 82 controls the switching mechanism when the temperature detected by the spatial temperature sensor 71 is equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature and the humidity detected by the spatial humidity sensor 72 is equal to or lower than the predetermined humidity for the first predetermined time or longer. The part 81 permits to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the blown air is blown out in the second direction.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit 10, priority is given to blowing out air in the first direction in which a circulating airflow is easily generated in the air conditioning target space RS until the temperature and humidity of the air conditioning target space RS satisfy predetermined conditions. As a result, on the premise of ensuring the comfort of the air-conditioning target space RS as a whole, it is possible to eliminate the occurrence of temperature unevenness and further improve the comfort.

(4-7)
In the air conditioning indoor unit 10 according to the present embodiment, the control permission unit 82 switches the switching operation when the continuous operation time after the air conditioning indoor unit 10 starts to blow the blown air in the first direction for the first time after the start of operation exceeds the initial switching time. The mechanism control unit 81 permits the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 to be controlled so that the blown air is blown out in the second direction.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit 10, immediately after the start of the operation, in which temperature unevenness is particularly likely to occur, the blowout of the blown air in the second direction is performed regardless of whether the temperature / humidity of the air conditioning target space RS satisfies the predetermined condition. Allowed. Therefore, the occurrence of temperature unevenness immediately after the start of operation is easily eliminated.

(4-8)
The air conditioning indoor unit 10 of the present embodiment includes a fan control unit 83 as an example of an air volume control unit that controls the air volume of the indoor fan 14. The air direction switching mechanism 30 switches the air direction of the blown air continuously from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction. While the air direction switching mechanism 30 switches the air direction of the blown air from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction, the fan control unit 83 controls the air volume of the indoor fan 14. The air volume of the indoor fan 14 when the air is blown in the first direction and the second direction is reduced.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit 10, it is possible to avoid direct hitting of a person in the air conditioning target space RS, and comfort is not easily impaired.

(4-9)
In the air conditioning indoor unit 10 of the present embodiment, the fan control unit 83 compares the air volume of the indoor fan 14 when blowing air in the second direction with the air volume of the indoor fan 14 when blowing air in the first direction. Decrease.

  In the air conditioning indoor unit 10, when the air is blown downward, the air volume is reduced, so that direct hitting of a person in the air conditioning target space RS is easily suppressed, and a decrease in comfort is easily prevented.

(5) Modification Examples of the present embodiment are shown below. Note that the following modifications may be combined as appropriate within a range that does not contradict each other.

(5-1) Modification A
In the above embodiment, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 detects that temperature unevenness occurs in the air conditioning target space RS based on the comparison result between the near side temperature and the back side temperature transmitted from the floor temperature sensor 70. However, the detection method of the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 is not limited to this.

  For example, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 generates temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space RS based on the change over time of the temperature measured by the first temperature sensor (in other words, the near-side temperature transmitted from the floor temperature sensor 70). May be detected. More specifically, the temperature unevenness detection unit 84 determines whether the temperature measured by the first temperature sensor gradually increases (although the set temperature input from the remote controller has not been changed). You may detect that the temperature nonuniformity has arisen in space RS. When comprised in this way, temperature nonuniformity can be detected with a comparatively simple structure, and temperature nonuniformity can be eliminated by the wind direction control of blowing air.

(5-2) Modification B
One of the causes of temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space RS may be the effect of solar radiation. For example, sunlight enters from a window provided on the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed to warm the floor surface, or the wall WL where the air conditioning indoor unit 10 is installed is warmed by sunlight. There is a possibility that temperature unevenness occurs in the target space RS. Therefore, in the air conditioning target space RS, temperature unevenness is likely to occur particularly during the day.

  Therefore, the above-described switching process from the first direction to the second direction of the blown air during the circulation mode cooling operation may be performed only during the daytime. For example, the control permission unit 82 may always prohibit the switching mechanism control unit 81 from controlling the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 so that the blown air blows out in the second direction at night.

(5-3) Modification C
The configuration of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 of the above embodiment is an example, and the wind direction switching mechanism is not limited to the above configuration. For example, the wind direction switching mechanism switches the wind direction blown out from the air outlet 27 between the first direction and the second direction using two or less flaps or using three or more flaps. It may be configured as follows.

  For example, the casing 11 has air outlets formed at two or more locations, and the air conditioning indoor unit is configured to blow air from different air outlets when air is blown in the first direction and when air is blown in the second direction. May be configured. The wind direction switching mechanism may adjust the wind direction using different flaps when blowing air in the first direction and when blowing air in the second direction.

(5-4) Modification D
In the above embodiment, the switching mechanism control unit 81 is when the blown air is blown out in the first direction, and when it is detected that temperature unevenness is generated in the air conditioning target space RS, and the air conditioning target space RS. In both cases where it is estimated that temperature unevenness has occurred, the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is controlled so that the blown air is temporarily blown in the second direction.

  However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the air-conditioning indoor unit does not have the temperature unevenness estimation unit 85, and the switching mechanism control unit 81 has the air-conditioning target space RS when the blown air is blown out in the first direction. Only when it is detected that temperature unevenness has occurred, the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 may be controlled so that the blown air is temporarily blown in the second direction. In addition, for example, the air conditioning indoor unit does not have the temperature unevenness detection unit 84, and the switching mechanism control unit 81 may have temperature unevenness in the air conditioning target space RS when the blown air is blown out in the first direction. Only when estimated, the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 may be controlled so that the blown air is temporarily blown in the second direction.

  However, in order to more reliably suppress the occurrence of temperature unevenness, it is estimated that the temperature unevenness is generated in the air-conditioning target space RS when it is detected that the temperature unevenness is generated in the air-conditioning target space RS. In both cases, the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism 30 is preferably controlled so that the blown air is temporarily blown in the second direction.

  The present invention can be widely applied to air conditioning indoor units and is useful.

10 Air Conditioning Indoor Unit 11 Casing 13 Indoor Heat Exchanger (Heat Exchanger)
14 Indoor fans (fans)
25 Top surface inlet (inlet)
26 Bottom suction port (suction port)
27 Air outlet 30 Wind direction switching mechanism 70 Floor temperature sensor (temperature unevenness detection sensor, first temperature sensor, second temperature sensor)
71 Spatial temperature sensor 72 Spatial humidity sensor 81 Switching mechanism control unit 82 Control permission unit 83 Fan control unit (air flow control unit)
84 Temperature unevenness detection part 85 Temperature unevenness estimation part RS Air-conditioning object space WL Wall

JP 2013-0776530 A

Claims (10)

A casing (11) provided with an inlet (25, 26) and an outlet (27);
A heat exchanger (13) for exchanging heat with the air sucked from the suction port and taking heat away from the air;
A fan (14) for blowing out the air heat-exchanged by the heat exchanger from the outlet;
A wind direction switching mechanism (30) that switches the wind direction of the blown-out air blown from the blowout port between at least a first direction that is horizontal or nearly horizontal and a second direction that is vertically downward or nearly vertically downward;
A switching mechanism control unit (81) for controlling the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism so that the wind direction of the blown air is switched;
With
When the switching mechanism control unit detects or estimates that temperature unevenness occurs in the air-conditioning target space (RS) when the blown air is blown out in the first direction, the blown air temporarily changes. Controlling the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism to blow out in the second direction;
Air conditioning indoor unit (10). A temperature unevenness detection sensor (70) for detecting temperature unevenness;
Based on the measurement result of the temperature unevenness detection sensor, a temperature unevenness detection unit (84) for detecting that temperature unevenness occurs in the air conditioning target space;
Further comprising
The switching mechanism control unit is configured to switch the wind direction so that the blown air is temporarily blown in the second direction based on a detection result of the temperature unevenness detection unit when the blown air is blown out in the first direction. Control the operation of the mechanism,
The air conditioning indoor unit according to claim 1. The air conditioning indoor unit is a wall hanging type,
The temperature unevenness detection sensor includes a first temperature sensor that measures a temperature below the air conditioning indoor unit,
The air conditioning indoor unit according to claim 2. The temperature unevenness detection sensor further includes a second temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the air-conditioning target space away from the wall (WL) where the air-conditioning indoor unit is installed,
The temperature unevenness detection unit detects that temperature unevenness occurs in the air-conditioning target space based on a comparison result between the measurement value of the first temperature sensor and the measurement value of the second temperature sensor.
The air conditioning indoor unit according to claim 3. The temperature unevenness detection unit detects temperature unevenness in the air-conditioning target space based on a change over time of the temperature measured by the first temperature sensor.
The air conditioning indoor unit according to claim 3. A temperature unevenness estimating unit (85) that estimates that temperature unevenness occurs in the air-conditioning target space when the time during which the blown air is continuously blown out in the first direction exceeds a first time;
Further comprising
The switching mechanism control unit is configured to switch the wind direction so that the blown air is temporarily blown in the second direction based on an estimation result by the temperature unevenness estimation unit when the blown air is blown in the first direction. Control the operation of the mechanism,
The air conditioning indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5. A space temperature sensor (71) for detecting the temperature of the air-conditioned space;
A spatial humidity sensor (72) for detecting the humidity of the air-conditioned space;
A control permission unit (82) for allowing the switching mechanism control unit to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism;
Further comprising
The control permission unit controls the switching mechanism when the temperature detected by the spatial temperature sensor is equal to or lower than a predetermined temperature and the humidity detected by the spatial humidity sensor is equal to or lower than the predetermined humidity for a second time or longer. Permitting the portion to control the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism so that the blown air blows in the second direction,
The air conditioning indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6. If the continuous operation time after the air conditioning indoor unit starts blowing the blown air in the first direction for the first time after the start of operation exceeds the third time, the control mechanism control unit Further permitting control of the operation of the wind direction switching mechanism such that air is blown out in the second direction;
The air conditioning indoor unit according to claim 7. An air volume control unit (83) for controlling the air volume of the fan;
Further comprising
The wind direction switching mechanism is configured to continuously change the wind direction of the blown air from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction,
The air volume control unit, while the wind direction switching mechanism switches the wind direction of the blown air from the first direction to the second direction or from the second direction to the first direction, Reducing the air volume of the fan as compared to the air volume of the fan when the blown air is blown out in the first direction and the second direction;
The air conditioning indoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 8. The air volume control unit reduces the air volume of the fan when blowing the blown air in the second direction as compared to the air volume of the fan when blowing the blown air in the first direction.
The air conditioning indoor unit according to claim 9.

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