JP2019078526A - Data setting method for air conditioner - Google Patents

Abstract

To easily set various data without performing operation of an operation button in a remote controller for an air conditioner.SOLUTION: A remote controller (30) includes an external communication section (45) having an NFC circuit (42) and an NFC antenna (43). The external communication section (45) enables radio communication with an external device even when power is not supplied to the remote controller (30) and operation of a built-in microcomputer (36) is impossible. Therefore, the radio communication between the external communication section (45) of the remote controller (30) and the external device enables various data to be transmitted from the external device to the remote controller (30) and set.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to improvement of a remote control device for an air conditioner, and more particularly to facilitation of setting of data and the like for air conditioning to the remote control device.

  Conventionally, with regard to setting of data for air conditioning to a remote control device for an air conditioner, an operator directly operates an operation button of the remote control device to set data for air conditioning or the like in the remote control device.

  For example, in a multi-building system in which several dozen indoor units are connected to one outdoor unit as an air conditioner, indoor units are installed in many rooms on each floor of the building, and each of these units is installed. A remote control device is connected to each indoor unit, and after installing the remote control device in an energized state, a configuration is adopted in which a plurality of indoor units on these floors are centrally controlled. Under this configuration, when setting the address of each indoor unit to the centralized monitoring board, the operator repeatedly sets the address of the corresponding indoor unit to the remote control device of the room while rotating around each room, and The address of the machine was recorded in a memo or the like, and then, when all address settings were completed, the address of each indoor unit set in the remote control devices was again input to the centralized monitoring board.

  Also, after turning on the remote control device, the operator operates the operation button of the remote control device several times each time when displaying a clock on the remote control device or setting a schedule such as air conditioning time setting. .

  However, the above button operation is extremely troublesome, and particularly when there are a large number of remote control devices as in a multi-system for buildings, there is a drawback that data setting is troublesome and takes a long time.

  Conventionally, as a data setting technology for a remote control device, for example, in Patent Document 1, a CPU provided inside the remote control device is connected to an external personal computer through a communication port, and data concerning operation control factors from the external personal computer is An arrangement for transmitting to a CPU is disclosed.

Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 10-223044

  However, in the above-described conventional configuration, it is necessary to put the remote control device into an energized state in order to operate the CPU of the remote control device. Therefore, when the remote control device is connected to the indoor unit, installed, and power is supplied from the indoor unit to the remote control device to start energization for the first time, data from the external personal computer can not be received before installation. There is a drawback. Therefore, even with this technology, for example, in a multi-building system for buildings, it is not possible to eliminate the inconvenience that the operator repeatedly operates the buttons of the remote control device in each room while moving around each room.

  In view of the foregoing, the object of the present invention is to provide a remote control device for an air conditioner without operating a button attached to the remote control device even if a control unit such as a built-in microcomputer is inoperative due to de-energization. Another object of the present invention is to make it possible to easily set various data in a remote control device.

  In order to achieve the above object, in the present invention, a remote control device for an air conditioner includes, for example, a communication unit such as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) including NFC (Near Field Communication) that can exchange data by near field communication. By using this, even when power is not supplied to the remote control device itself, various data can be set from the external device to the remote control device.

  Concretely, the remote control device for air conditioners of the invention according to claim 1 is for air conditioners having a control unit (36) and a main storage unit (41) for storing setting data for air conditioning. An external communication unit (45) capable of communicating with an external device different from the air conditioner even when power is not supplied to the control unit (36); and the external communication unit (45) is characterized by including an auxiliary storage unit (42a) for storing communication data obtained by communication with the external device.

  In the first aspect of the invention, the external communication unit can communicate with the external device even when power is not supplied to the control unit such as the microcomputer, so that various data preset in the external device are transmitted to the remote control device. Can be stored in an auxiliary storage unit inside the remote control device.

  Therefore, for example, in a multi-air conditioning system for a building, a large number of remote control devices are put together in a predetermined room before connecting remote control devices to the indoor units installed in each room of the building in centralized address setting. The remote controller can be prepared for each of the remote controllers only by repeating the process of writing a predetermined address into the auxiliary storage unit through the external communication unit of the remote controller using the external device. Centralized address setting becomes possible. Therefore, after installing the remote control device to each indoor unit as in the prior art, the operator rotates the room and operates the button of each remote control device while power is supplied from the indoor unit to the remote control device. The work of setting the address is released.

  In addition, even when clock display is performed on the remote control device after the installation, time data and the like can be written from the external device to the auxiliary storage unit through the external communication unit of the remote control device. Therefore, also in this case, it is not necessary to set the clock display by the button operation of the remote control device.

  The second invention is the remote control device for the air conditioner, wherein the external communication unit (45) communicates with the external device separately from the operation of the control unit (36) to assist communication data in the auxiliary It is characterized in that it is stored in the storage unit (42a).

  In the second aspect of the invention, the remote control device communicates with an external device separately from the operation of the control unit. Therefore, even if the control unit receives no power supply and is in the inactive state, the external communication unit receives power supply from the external device, for example, when communicating with the external device, and receives communication data from the external device. Is stored in the auxiliary storage unit. Therefore, even when the remote control device is not energized, it is possible to transfer the communication data of the external device to the auxiliary storage unit inside the remote control device without operating the operation button.

  In a third invention according to the remote control device for an air conditioner, the control unit (36) receives power supply when energization of the remote control device (30) is started, and the external communication unit (45) is an external device. When the communication data stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) by communication is the setting of the remote control device, the setting is reflected and stored in the main storage unit (41).

  In the third aspect of the invention, when energization of the remote control device is started, the control unit such as the microcomputer becomes operable, and it becomes possible to determine what setting data stored in the auxiliary storage unit is. Therefore, when the setting is for the remote control device, the setting is reflected and the setting data is stored in the main storage unit. Therefore, for example, from the time of initial operation, it is possible to reflect the setting of the brightness and contrast value of the liquid crystal display surface of the remote control device.

  In a fourth invention according to the remote control device for an air conditioner, the control unit (36) receives power supply when energization of the remote control device (30) is started, and the external communication unit (45) is an external device. The communication data stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) is read out by communication, and when not set by the remote control device (30), it is transferred to the outside through the communication port (31).

  In the fourth aspect of the invention, when energization of the remote control device is started, the control unit such as the microcomputer becomes operable, and it becomes possible to determine what setting data stored in the auxiliary storage unit is. Therefore, when the setting of the remote control device is not performed, the setting data can be transferred to an external indoor unit or outdoor unit, a centralized device, or the like through the communication port. Therefore, for example, in a multi-air conditioning system for buildings, it is possible to transfer each address set in a large number of remote control devices from the remote control device to an indoor unit or an outdoor unit, a centralized device or the like.

  The fifth invention is the remote control device for an air conditioner according to the operation of the external communication unit (45) at the time of communication between the external communication unit (45) and the external device when the remote control device (30) is not energized. It is characterized by having a protection device (32) which prevents the required power from affecting the control unit (36).

  In the fifth aspect of the invention, communication is possible between the external communication unit and the external device even when the remote control device is deenergized, but at the time of the communication, the power required for the operation of the external communication unit is not activated by the protection device. Does not affect state control unit. Therefore, the power is supplied only to the external communication unit, and data communication between the external communication unit and the external device is secured.

  In a sixth invention according to the remote control device for an air conditioner, the control unit (36) assists the external communication unit (45) by communication with the external device after power supply to the remote control device (30) is started. When communication data is newly stored in the storage unit (42a), if the new communication data is the setting of the remote control device (30), the setting is reflected and the communication data is stored in the main storage unit (41). It is characterized by storing.

  In the sixth aspect of the invention, when energization of the remote control device is started, the control unit that is in the operating state newly receives setting data from the external device via the external communication unit and stored in the auxiliary storage unit. If the setting data is the setting of the remote control device, the setting is reflected and transferred from the auxiliary storage unit to the main storage unit. Therefore, for example, if time data is stored as setting data from an external device in the auxiliary storage unit, clock display can be performed on the remote control device without operating the operation button.

  The seventh invention is the remote control device for the air conditioner, wherein the control unit (36) assists the external communication unit (45) by communication with the external device after the start of energization to the remote control device (30). When communication data is newly stored in the storage unit (42a), if the new communication data is a setting other than that of the remote control device (30), it is transferred to the outside through the communication port.

  In the seventh aspect of the invention, when energization of the remote control device is started, the control unit that is in the operating state newly receives setting data from the external device through the external communication unit and stored in the auxiliary storage unit. When the setting data is, for example, the address setting of the external indoor unit, the address can be set to the indoor unit without operating the operation button.

  An air conditioner according to an eighth aspect of the invention is characterized by comprising the remote control device (30) for the air conditioner.

  In the eighth aspect of the invention, an air conditioner provided with a remote control device capable of setting various data without button operation can be obtained.

  According to the remote control device for an air conditioner of the first aspect of the present invention, even when power is not supplied to the control unit, various data set in advance in the external device can be transmitted to the remote control device and stored. It is possible.

  Further, according to the second invention, even when the remote control device is not energized, communication data of the external device can be stored inside the remote control device without operating the operation button.

  Furthermore, according to the third invention, it is possible to reflect, for example, the setting of the brightness and the contrast value of the remote control device as data setting of the remote control device from the time of initial operation when energization of the remote control device is started.

  According to the fourth invention, in the case of the setting data which is not the setting of the remote control device, the setting data is transferred to the outside through the communication port. For example, in the building multi air conditioning system, it is stored in multiple remote control devices. Each address can be transferred from the remote control device to an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, a centralized device, or the like.

  In addition, according to the fifth invention, the protection device can ensure data communication between the external communication unit and the external device when the remote control device is deenergized.

  According to the sixth aspect of the invention, after the control unit operates by energizing the remote control device, it is possible to display a clock on the remote control device without operating the operation button.

  According to the seventh invention, after the control unit operates by energizing the remote control device, for example, when the address setting of the external indoor unit is stored in the auxiliary storage unit, the indoor unit address is stored in the external indoor unit. It is possible to transfer to the device and perform address setting of the indoor unit without operating the operation button of the remote control device.

  Moreover, according to the eighth invention, it is possible to obtain an air conditioner provided with a remote control device capable of setting various data without button operation.

FIG. 1 is a view showing a refrigerant circuit of an air conditioner provided with a remote control device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2: is a block diagram which shows the internal schematic structure of the indoor unit and remote control apparatus with which the air conditioner is equipped. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of an NFC circuit provided inside the remote control device. FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing the state of near field communication between the remote control device and the external device. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a write setting flowchart of data when the power is turned on. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a write setting flowchart of data after power on.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail based on the drawings. The following embodiments are essentially preferred examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, the applications thereof, or the applications thereof.

(Embodiment)
FIG. 1 shows a refrigerant circuit of an air conditioner provided with a remote control device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  In the figure, (A) is an indoor unit, (B) is an outdoor unit, and the indoor unit (A) and the outdoor unit (B) constitute an air conditioner (C). The outdoor unit (B) includes a compressor (1) incorporating a motor (1a), a four-way switching valve (2), an air-cooling outdoor heat exchanger (3) having an air-cooling fan (3a), and a valve A variable opening electric expansion valve (4) is provided, the body of which is driven by a pulse motor. On the other hand, the indoor unit (A) is equipped with an air-cooling indoor heat exchanger (5) having an air-cooling fan (5a).

  The compressor (1), the four-way switching valve (2), the outdoor heat exchanger (3) and the electric expansion valve (4) of the outdoor unit (B), and the indoor heat exchanger (5) of the indoor unit (A) ) Is connected to a closed circuit by a refrigerant pipe (7) to form a refrigerant circuit (10) which forms a refrigeration cycle.

  Then, in the refrigerant circuit (10), in the heating operation mode, the four-way selector valve (2) is switched as shown by the broken line to flow the refrigerant as indicated by the broken line arrow, and the refrigerant from the compressor (1) is The heat is sent to a heat exchanger (5), the refrigerant is heat exchanged with room air by means of this indoor heat exchanger (5), heat is radiated, the room is heated, and then the flow rate and pressure of the refrigerant are used as an electric expansion valve (4) While adjusting at the same time, heat exchange with the outside air in the outdoor heat exchanger (3) to absorb heat, and return to the compressor (1) as a gas refrigerant is repeated.

  On the other hand, in the cooling operation mode, the four-way switching valve (2) is switched as indicated by the solid line to flow the refrigerant as indicated by the solid line arrow to send the refrigerant from the compressor (1) to the outdoor heat exchanger (3). After heat exchange with the outside air by the outdoor heat exchanger (3) and dissipating the heat, the flow rate and pressure of the refrigerant are adjusted by the electric expansion valve (4), and the indoor air by the indoor heat exchanger (5) Heat exchange, heat absorption, cooling the room, and returning to the compressor (1) as a gas refrigerant.

  The indoor unit (A) further includes a control unit (20). In addition, the outdoor unit (B) is also provided with a control unit (25). The control unit (20) of the indoor unit (A) and the control unit (25) of the outdoor unit (B) can communicate with each other.

  The control unit (25) of the outdoor unit (B) is connected to the motor (1a) of the compressor (1), the air cooling fan (3a) of the outdoor heat exchanger (3), and the electric expansion valve (4) With this control unit (25), the rotational speed of the motor (1a) of the compressor (1), the rotational speed of the air-cooling fan (3a) of the outdoor heat exchanger (3), and the opening degree of the electric expansion valve (4) It is controlled. On the other hand, the control unit (20) of the indoor unit (A) is connected to the air-cooling fan (5a) of the indoor heat exchanger (5), and the control unit (20) allows the rotational speed of the indoor fan (5a) to be increased. It is controlled.

  Further, a remote control device (30) is connected to the control unit (20) of the indoor unit (A). The remote control device (30) has a plurality of operation buttons (not shown), and when the operator of the room operates these operation buttons, the cooling operation or heating operation of the air conditioner (C) Set the room setting temperature, air volume, etc. at the time of the instruction, the operation.

  FIG. 2 shows an internal schematic configuration of the control unit (20) of the indoor unit (A) and the remote control device (30).

  In the figure, the control unit (20) of the indoor unit (A) and the remote control device (30) are connected by a wire (50). The control unit (20) includes a microcomputer (21), a communication port (22), and a storage unit (23). The microcomputer (21) performs data communication with the remote control device (30) through the communication port (22), and transmits a cooling operation command or a heating operation command transmitted from the remote control device (30), and setting during the operation The indoor temperature, the set air volume and the like are received, and setting data of these are stored in the storage unit (23). Further, the control unit (20) communicates with the control unit (25) of the outdoor unit (B) so as to perform the instructed cooling or heating operation, and the control unit (25) of the outdoor unit (B) While switching the four-way switching valve (2), receive the actual indoor temperature from a temperature sensor (described later) disposed in the remote control device (30), and set the indoor unit ( The control unit (25) of the outdoor unit (B) communicates with the control unit (25) of the outdoor unit (B) while controlling the rotational speed of the air cooling fan (5a) of the indoor heat exchanger (5) of A). The rotational speed of the motor (1a) of the compressor (1) of the outdoor unit (B), the rotational speed of the air-cooling fan (3a) of the outdoor heat exchanger (3), and the opening degree of the electric expansion valve (4) Control.

<Configuration of Remote Control Device (30)>
On the other hand, the remote control device (30) receives power supply of DC voltage from the indoor unit (A) through the wiring (50), and the wiring (50) receives the DC voltage and the remote control device (20). Communication data between the control units (20) is superimposed.

  The remote control device (30) internally includes a communication port (31) connected to the wiring (50), a filter (32), a 5 V power circuit (33), and a 3.3 V circuit (34). And a remote control communication IC (35), a microcomputer (36), and an operation button (37). The operation button (37) is a power button, a cooling / heating operation button, a temperature setting button, an air volume setting button, an air direction setting button, and the like. In addition, the remote control device (30) includes a temperature sensor (38) for detecting an indoor temperature, a driving LED (39) for driving display, and a backlight LED (40a) for lighting the liquid crystal display surface of the remote control device (30). ), An EEPROM (41) as a main storage unit, an NFC circuit (42) having a storage unit (42a) therein, and an NFC antenna (43).

  The filter (32) passes the DC voltage of the communication data and the DC voltage supplied to the remote control device (20) through the wiring (50) and the communication port (31) to the 5V power circuit (33). The 5V power supply circuit (33) generates a 5V DC voltage from the DC voltage passed through the filter (32). The 3.3V circuit (34) steps down the 5V voltage generated by the 5V power supply circuit (33) to 3.3V. The remote control communication IC (35) operates at 5 V generated by the 5 V power supply circuit (33), and performs the cooling / heating operation with the control unit (20) of the indoor unit (A) via the wiring (50) Communicates setting data such as command, set room temperature, actual room temperature, and air volume setting.

  Further, the microcomputer (control unit) (36) becomes operable by receiving the 3.3 V voltage generated by the 3.3 V circuit (34). The microcomputer (36) controls the cooling / heating operation from the operation button (37), the set room temperature, the air volume setting, the actual room temperature from the temperature sensor (38), etc., and the recorded contents of the EEPROM (41) (35) and the communication port (31) to transmit to the control unit (20) of the indoor unit (A). The microcomputer (36) performs 8-bit parallel communication with the liquid crystal display module (40) to display the cooling / heating operation, the set room temperature, the air flow, etc. on the liquid crystal display surface of the remote control device (30). Command the liquid crystal display module (40). Furthermore, when the microcomputer (36) becomes operable by the power supply from the 3.3 V circuit (34), the microcomputer (36) reads the stored contents of the storage unit (42a) of the NFC circuit (42).

  When the storage content of the storage unit (42a) of the NFC circuit (42) relates to the setting of the remote control device (30), the microcomputer (36) causes the EEPROM (41) to reflect the setting. Forward. On the other hand, if it relates to the setting of the indoor unit (A), to the microcomputer (21) of the indoor unit (A) via the remote control communication IC (35), the communication port (31) and the wiring (50) Then, the microcomputer (21) of the indoor unit (A) transfers the data to the storage unit (23) of the indoor unit (A).

  The EEPROM (41) is connected to the microcomputer (36) via a bidirectional bus (44) such as a two-wire system, and data is stored from the microcomputer (36) via the bidirectional bus (44), The stored data is read out to the microcomputer (36). The data to be stored is, for example, an operating state such as a cooling operation, a heating operation, an indoor set temperature, an air flow, and the like. These operation states are used when the remote control device (30) is restored after the power is shut off. In addition, display settings such as language, history of abnormality, communication log and the like are also stored.

  Furthermore, the NFC circuit (42) and the NFC antenna (43) are characteristic features of the present embodiment. The NFC antenna (43) transmits radio waves from an antenna of a reader / writer such as an NFC circuit and an NFC antenna built in an external device (not shown) such as a microcomputer disposed close to the remote control device (30) The received data is received, power is supplied by electromagnetic induction by the received radio wave, and power is generated.

  The NFC circuit (42) is connected to the NFC antenna (43) and connected to the microcomputer (36) via the bidirectional bus (44).

  As shown in FIG. 3, inside the NFC circuit (42), the storage unit (42a) as an auxiliary storage unit, an NFC control unit (42b), and a power supply separation filter (42c) are provided. . The storage capacity of the storage unit (42a) is smaller than the storage capacity of the EEPROM (41). The NFC circuit (42) does not have a built-in battery, and receives the power generated by the NFC antenna (43) to operate the NFC control unit (42b) and the storage unit (42a). The NFC control unit (42 b) stores the data from the external device received by the NFC antenna (43) in the storage unit (42 a). Further, the NFC circuit (42) causes the NFC control unit (42b) to carry the data in the storage unit (42a) on the radio wave by the power generated by the NFC antenna (43) and transmit the data from the NFC antenna (43) to the external device. Send. At this time, the external device receives the radio wave from the NFC antenna (43) with the antenna of the built-in reader / writer, and the control unit inside the reader / writer extracts data from the received radio wave.

  Therefore, the NFC circuit (42) and the NFC antenna (43) do not supply power from the 3.3 V circuit (34) to the built-in microcomputer (36), that is, when the built-in microcomputer (36) is inoperable. Even if the built-in microcomputer (36) receives power supply and is in an operating state, it independently receives power supply by radio waves received from the external device and generates power to communicate with the external device, It functions as an external communication unit (45) that stores information (data) included in radio waves received from an external device in the internal auxiliary storage unit (42a).

  Also, when the setting data is stored in the storage unit (42a), the NFC control unit (42b) of the NFC circuit (42) outputs an interrupt signal to the bidirectional bus (44).

  Furthermore, in the power supply separation filter (42c), a power supply voltage generated by the NFC antenna (43) receiving radio waves from an external device is supplied to the 5V power supply circuit (33) and the 3.3V circuit (34). Function as a protection device that protects the microcomputer (36) etc. from inadvertent operation by the power supply voltage generated by the NFC antenna (43) and protects only the NFC circuit (42) from operating. .

<Data setting to remote control device (30)>
Next, the setting operation of various data to the remote control device (30) will be described.

  The first data setting is in the stage where the remote control unit (30) and the indoor unit (A) are not connected by wiring (50), that is, the remote control unit (30) alone, and the built-in microcomputer (36) supplies power. In a non-operating condition without receiving

  The following description will be given on the assumption that various data to be set in the remote control device (30) are stored in advance in the external device.

  First, as shown in FIG. 4, the remote control device (30) and the external device (60) are brought close to each other. Specifically, the NFC antenna (43) of the remote control device (30) and the antenna of a reader / writer (not shown) provided in the external device (60) are brought close, and in this state, radio waves are transmitted from the external device (60). The setting data is transmitted to the NFC antenna (43), and the setting data is stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) in the NFC circuit (42). The external device (60) may be a PC (personal computer) or a smartphone.

  Specifically, the setting data transmitted from the external device (60) is, for example, each address (address in centralized address setting) to be set in multiple rooms in the multi-air conditioning system for buildings, a remote control device 30) Backlight setting value such as the brightness of the backlight LED (40a) provided in the liquid crystal display module (40) or display setting such as contrast setting value, temperature or Celsius display data, any of multiple languages Data on whether to display the language and data on whether or not the indoor unit (A) is installed on a high ceiling, etc. are data on the indoor unit (A).

  Here, to describe centralized address setting in the multi-air conditioning system for buildings, a large number of remote control devices (30) arranged in multiple rooms are prepared, for example, in one place in one room. In addition, the external device (60) stores in advance a rule of address change, for example, a rule to be changed in ascending order or descending order. The first address is stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) of the remote control device (30) by close proximity wireless communication between the NFC antenna (43) of the first remote control device (30) and the external device (60). Do. After that, the external device (60) repeats to sequentially assign the next address according to the above rule to the next remote control device (30). In this way, addresses are sequentially stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) in the NFC circuit (42) with respect to a number of remote control devices (30) in which the built-in microcomputer (36) is inoperable.

  Then, as described above, the address setting using the NFC circuit (42) and the NFC antenna (43) of the remote control device (30), the appearance setting such as the brightness of the backlight LED (40a) of the remote control device (30) The indoor unit installed with the remote control device (30) is carried by carrying the remote control device (30) into each room of the building after setting of the display data of Celsius or Fahrenheit is completed. A) Connect with wiring (50) and install the remote control device (30) in the room. As a result, each remote control device (30) receives power supply from the corresponding indoor unit (A) through the wiring (50), and thereafter, when the power button of the operation button (37) is operated, the built-in microcomputer 36) becomes operational.

  After that, when the remote control device (30) receives power supply from the indoor unit (A) and the built-in microcomputer (36) becomes operable as shown in the write setting flowchart at power on shown in FIG. S1), the microcomputer (36) reads out the stored contents of the auxiliary storage unit (42a) of the NFC circuit (42) by itself (step S2). When the stored content read out from the built-in microcomputer (36) is the setting data of the remote control device (30), for example, the backlight setting such as the brightness of the backlight LED (40a) included in the liquid crystal display module (40) (In the case of YES at step S3), the setting data is transferred to the EEPROM (main storage unit) (41) so as to reflect the setting data (step S4). Furthermore, when the stored content read out is not the setting of the remote control device (30), the built-in microcomputer (36), for example, data necessary for setting or operation of the connected indoor unit (A), for example, the address of the indoor unit (A) If it is the case (NO in step S3), the data of these are transmitted to the microcomputer (21 of the indoor unit (A) via the remote control communication IC (35), the communication port (31) and the wiring (50). ) (Step S5). The microcomputer (21) of the indoor unit (A) stores the transmitted data in the storage unit (23).

  Thereafter, the power on state of the remote control device (30) (that is, the operating state of the built-in microcomputer (36)) as shown in the write setting flow chart after the power on shown in FIG. ) (Step S10), perform other data setting necessary for the remote control device (30) using the close proximity wireless communication between the NFC circuit (42) and the NFC antenna (43) and the external device (60), Data in the NFC circuit (42) in the auxiliary storage unit (42a). The setting data includes, for example, time setting and data setting performed on site among various settings for the indoor unit (A) such as setting of the wind direction for each indoor unit (A). The above time setting includes year, month, day, hour, presence or absence of summer time, position information using GPS, and the like.

  When setting data such as the above time setting is stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) of the NFC circuit (42) from the external device (60), the NFC circuit (42) outputs an interrupt signal to the bidirectional bus (44) Do. When the built-in microcomputer (36) receives the interrupt signal from the NFC circuit (42) (step S11), it checks the memory content of the auxiliary storage unit (42a) in the NFC antenna (43) (step S12), and changes it If the stored data is the setting of the remote control device 30 (YES in step S13), the EEPROM 41 via the bi-directional bus 44 reflects the contents of the change. ) (Step S14). On the other hand, when the storage data of the auxiliary storage unit (42a) is not the setting of the remote control device (30) (in the case of NO in step S13), that is, the change content is the setting data regarding the indoor unit (A) etc. The setting data is transferred to the microcomputer (21) of the indoor unit (A) via the communication port (31) and the wiring (50) (step S15), and the microcomputer (21) transfers the data to the storage unit (23). Remember.

  After the built-in microcomputer (36) is activated by powering on the remote control device (30), the operator operates the operation button (37) of the remote control device (30) to set various settings such as clock settings. Of course, data can be set.

  In addition, after the built-in microcomputer (36) of the remote control device (30) becomes active, the microcomputer (36) approaches the external device (60) using the NFC circuit (42) and the NFC antenna (43). By wireless communication, setting data from the external device (60) can be stored directly in the EEPROM (main storage unit) (41) instead of the auxiliary storage unit (42a) in the NFC circuit (42), or the indoor unit (A) Directly to the microcomputer (21).

<Effect of this embodiment>
In this embodiment, even if the remote control device (30) is not connected to the indoor unit (A) and power is not supplied to the microcomputer (36) built in the remote control device (30), the remote control device (30) The proximity wireless communication between the NFC circuit (42) and the NFC antenna (43) and the external device (60) allows the external device (60) to perform various data such as centralized addresses in a multi-air conditioning system for buildings and display designation of ) In the NFC circuit (42). Therefore, it is possible to easily perform the various data settings without repeating the operation of the operation button (37) of the remote control device (30) as many times as in the prior art.

  In particular, in the centralized address setting in the multi-air conditioning system for buildings, a large number of remote control devices (30) and external devices (60) are prepared in, for example, a work desk in a predetermined room, and the remote control devices (30) are sequentially installed. A predetermined address is stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) of the NFC circuit (42) of each remote control device (30) simply by repeating the above-mentioned close proximity wireless communication by bringing one each into proximity with the external device (60) It can be done. Therefore, as in the prior art, after each remote control device (30) is carried into the room and connected to the indoor unit (A) in the room with the wiring (50), each remote control device (30) receiving power supply. There is no need to set various data by using the operation button (37).

  In addition, the NFC circuit (42) of the remote control device (30) can be used either when there is no power supply to the built-in microcomputer (36) or when there is power supply or in any case. Apart from the operation of (36), since it becomes operable by receiving power supply from the external device (60) by close proximity wireless communication with the external device (60), various setting data received from the external device (60) can be NFC It can be reliably stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) in the circuit (42).

  Furthermore, after the remote control device (30) receives power supply from the indoor unit (A) through the wiring (50) after various data settings using proximity wireless communication between the remote control device (30) and the external device (60), At this time, when the built-in microcomputer (36) becomes operable and the setting data stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) of the NFC circuit (42) is the setting data of the remote control device (30), Setting data is transferred to the EEPROM (41), and if it is not the setting data of the remote control device (30), the setting data thereof is transferred to the external indoor unit (A) or the like. Therefore, as in the case where various data settings are made using the operation button (37), the setting data of the brightness and contrast value of the liquid crystal display surface of the remote control device (30) can be remote controlled without operating the operation button (37). While being able to be reflected in the device (30), various data such as its own address can be transferred to the indoor unit (A) from the remote control device (30) to the indoor unit (A) via the wiring (50).

  In addition, the power supply voltage generated at the NFC antenna (43) is blocked by the power separation filter (42c) from entering the 5 V power circuit (33) or the 3.3 V circuit (34). The generated power supply voltage is used only for the operation of the NFC circuit (42), and various data communicated from the external device (60) can be reliably stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a). In the state where there is no power supply to), the microcomputer (36) is prevented from operating carelessly.

  Also, after the remote control device (30) receives power supply via the wiring (50), the auxiliary storage unit (42a) of the NFC circuit (42) by close proximity wireless communication between the remote control device (30) and the external device (60). The microcomputer (36) becomes operable even when the setting data of the remote control device (30) such as time data and the setting data of the indoor unit (A) other than the setting of the remote control device (30) are stored. Transfers the setting data of the remote control device (30) of the auxiliary storage unit (42a) to the EEPROM (41), so the setting data of the remote control device (30) such as the time data is transferred to the remote control device (30) at this time. Liquid crystal display can be performed, and setting data of the indoor unit (A) other than the setting of the remote control device (30) can be transferred to the indoor unit (A) via the communication port (31).

  As described above, it is possible to obtain an air conditioner provided with the remote control device (30), the indoor unit (A) and the outdoor unit (B), in which various data can be easily set by near field communication with the external device (60). it can.

(Other embodiments)
The present invention may be configured as follows for each of the above embodiments.

  In the above embodiment, the remote control device (30) is provided with the NFC circuit (42) and the NFC antenna (43) to perform proximity wireless communication with the external device (60), but the present invention is not limited to this. A near field communication may be performed by incorporating an RF tag IC of RFID (Radio Frequency IDentifier) using a radio wave or a magnetic field. In addition to the wireless communication, the remote control device (30) and the external device (60) are connected by a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connection cable or the like, and power is supplied from the external device while various types in the external device (60). The data may be stored in an auxiliary storage unit provided in the remote control device (30). In this case, in the remote control device (30), in addition to the built-in microcomputer (36), a control unit such as a dedicated microcomputer for communicating with an external device is required.

  Furthermore, the setting data stored in the EEPROM (main storage unit) (41) may be the value itself of the communication data with the external device, the setting value obtained by converting the communication data, or the microcomputer (control unit) It may be a program for updating.

  As described above, according to the present invention, since the external communication unit capable of communicating with the external device is provided even when power is not supplied to the control unit in the remote control device, various data can be obtained without operating the operation button many times. It is useful to apply to, for example, a remote control device used in a multi-air conditioning system for a building or an air conditioner equipped with the same, for example.

A indoor unit B outdoor unit C air conditioner 30 remote control device 31 communication port 36 microcomputer (control unit)
37 operation button 41 EEPROM (main storage unit)
42 NFC circuit 42a storage unit (auxiliary storage unit)
42b NFC control unit 42c power supply separation filter (protection device)
43 NFC antenna 45 external communication unit 60 external device

The present invention relates to an air conditioner data setting method .

  Conventionally, with regard to setting of data for air conditioning to a remote control device for an air conditioner, an operator directly operates an operation button of the remote control device to set data for air conditioning or the like in the remote control device.

  For example, in a multi-building system in which several dozen indoor units are connected to one outdoor unit as an air conditioner, indoor units are installed in many rooms on each floor of the building, and each of these units is installed. A remote control device is connected to each indoor unit, and after installing the remote control device in an energized state, a configuration is adopted in which a plurality of indoor units on these floors are centrally controlled. Under this configuration, when setting the address of each indoor unit to the centralized monitoring board, the operator repeatedly sets the address of the corresponding indoor unit to the remote control device of the room while rotating around each room, and The address of the machine was recorded in a memo or the like, and then, when all address settings were completed, the address of each indoor unit set in the remote control devices was again input to the centralized monitoring board.

  Also, after turning on the remote control device, the operator operates the operation button of the remote control device several times each time when displaying a clock on the remote control device or setting a schedule such as air conditioning time setting. .

  However, the above button operation is extremely troublesome, and particularly when there are a large number of remote control devices as in a multi-system for buildings, there is a drawback that data setting is troublesome and takes a long time.

  Conventionally, as a data setting technology for a remote control device, for example, in Patent Document 1, a CPU provided inside the remote control device is connected to an external personal computer through a communication port, and data concerning operation control factors from the external personal computer is An arrangement for transmitting to a CPU is disclosed.

Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 10-223044

  However, in the above-described conventional configuration, it is necessary to put the remote control device into an energized state in order to operate the CPU of the remote control device. Therefore, when the remote control device is connected to the indoor unit, installed, and power is supplied from the indoor unit to the remote control device to start energization for the first time, data from the external personal computer can not be received before installation. There is a drawback. Therefore, even with this technology, for example, in a multi-building system for buildings, it is not possible to eliminate the inconvenience that the operator repeatedly operates the buttons of the remote control device in each room while moving around each room.

In view of the foregoing, the object of the present invention is to simplify the data setting method of an air conditioner without operating any button even if a control unit such as a built-in microcomputer is in a non-energized and inoperable state. It is to be able to set various data.

In order to achieve the above object, according to the present invention, in the data setting method of an air conditioner, a communication unit such as RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) including NFC (Near Field Communication) that can exchange data by near field communication is used. used, even if there is no power supply to the apparatus itself having a main memory unit, to be able to set various data from the external device.

Specifically, the air conditioner in the data setting method of the first invention, the power supply to the apparatus comprising a device including a main memory unit for storing setting data for air conditioning (41), said main memory unit (41) An external communication unit (45) that can communicate with an external device (60) even when there is no supply, and an auxiliary storage unit that stores communication data obtained by the external communication unit (45) communicating with the external device (60) And (42a) . In the data setting method for an air conditioner, the external communication unit (45) communicates with the external device (60) different from the air conditioner, the communication data from the external device (60), Storing the auxiliary storage unit (42a) through the external communication unit (45), and when the power supply to the apparatus including the main storage unit (41) is started, storing the above auxiliary storage unit (42a) When the external communication unit (45) reads out the communication data, and the communication data is the setting of the device including the main storage unit (41), the setting is reflected on the device, and the communication data is read. And storing the data in the main storage unit (41) .

In the first invention, even when there is no power supply to the device including a main memory unit (41), the external communication unit can communicate with an external device, the auxiliary various data previously set in the external device It is possible to store in the storage unit.

  Therefore, for example, in a multi-air conditioning system for a building, a large number of remote control devices are put together in a predetermined room before connecting remote control devices to the indoor units installed in each room of the building in centralized address setting. The remote controller can be prepared for each of the remote controllers only by repeating the process of writing a predetermined address into the auxiliary storage unit through the external communication unit of the remote controller using the external device. Centralized address setting becomes possible. Therefore, after installing the remote control device to each indoor unit as in the prior art, the operator rotates the room and operates the button of each remote control device while power is supplied from the indoor unit to the remote control device. The work of setting the address is released.

In addition, even when, for example , clock display is performed on the remote control device after the installation, time data and the like can be written from the external device to the auxiliary storage unit through the external communication unit of the remote control device. Therefore, also in this case, it is not necessary to set the clock display by the button operation of the remote control device.

  Furthermore, when power supply of the apparatus including the main storage unit is started, it is possible to determine what kind of communication data is stored in the auxiliary storage unit. Therefore, when the communication data is a setting of a device including the main storage unit, the setting is reflected on the device, and the communication data is stored in the main storage unit. Therefore, for example, it is possible to reflect various settings of the apparatus including the main storage unit from the time of initial operation.

A second aspect of the invention is the data setting method for an air conditioner according to the present invention, in the case where the communication data is not a setting of a device including the main storage unit (41), the communication data is stored via the communication port (31). Transferring to the outside of the apparatus including the part (41) .

In the second aspect of the invention, when power supply to the apparatus including the main storage unit is started, it is possible to determine what setting data is stored in the auxiliary storage unit. Therefore, when the communication data is not the setting of the device including the main storage unit, the communication data can be transferred to the outside of the device via the communication port. Therefore, for example, in the multi-air conditioning system for buildings, it is possible to transfer each address and the like set in the device including a large number of main storage units from the device including the main storage unit to the outside thereof.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the data setting method for an air conditioner , the external communication unit (45) communicates with an external device (60) after the start of power supply to the device including the main storage unit (41). and storing new the communication data in the auxiliary storage unit (42a), when the new the communication data is a set of devices including the main memory unit (41), reflects the settings for the device And storing the new communication data in the main storage unit (41).

In the third aspect of the present invention, the main after storing unit power supply to the apparatus containing is started, when the communication data from the external device is stored in the auxiliary storage unit newly via the external communication unit, the communication data is mainly If the setting is for a device including a storage unit, the setting is reflected on the device and transferred from the auxiliary storage unit to the main storage unit. Therefore, if time data is stored in the auxiliary storage unit as communication data from an external device, for example, clock display can be performed on the device including the main storage unit without operating the operation button or the like .

The fourth invention is the data setting method for the air conditioner, if a new said communication data is set other than devices comprising the main storage unit (41), communicating a new said communication data port (31) , And is transferred to the outside of the apparatus including the main storage unit (41) .

In the fourth aspect of the present invention, the main after storing unit power supply to the apparatus containing is started, when the communication data from the external device is stored in the auxiliary storage unit newly via the external communication unit, the communication data is mainly If the device is not a device including a storage unit , the communication data can be set outside the device including the main storage unit without operating an operation button or the like .

According to the first aspect of the present invention , even when power is not supplied to the device including the main storage unit, various data preset in the external device can be stored in the auxiliary storage unit .

Furthermore, according to the first aspect of the invention, it is possible to reflect, for example, the setting of data of the device including the main storage unit from the time of initial operation when power supply to the device including the main storage unit is started.

According to the second invention, when the communication data is not set in the device including a main memory unit, since transfers the communication data via the communication port to the external of the device, for example a multi-air conditioning system for a building, a number Each address set in a device including one main storage unit can be transferred from the device including the main storage unit to the outside thereof.

According to the third invention, for example, when time data is stored in the auxiliary storage unit as communication data from an external device, clock display can be performed on the device including the main storage unit without operating the operation button or the like.

According to the fourth invention, after power supply to a device including a main storage unit is started, when communication data is newly stored in the auxiliary storage unit from the external device through the external communication unit, the communication data is stored. If the device is not a device including a main storage unit, the communication data can be set outside the device including the main storage unit without operating an operation button or the like.

FIG. 1 is a view showing a refrigerant circuit of an air conditioner provided with a remote control device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2: is a block diagram which shows the internal schematic structure of the indoor unit and remote control apparatus with which the air conditioner is equipped. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of an NFC circuit provided inside the remote control device. FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing the state of near field communication between the remote control device and the external device. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a write setting flowchart of data when the power is turned on. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a write setting flowchart of data after power on.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail based on the drawings. The following embodiments are essentially preferred examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, the applications thereof, or the applications thereof.

(Embodiment)
FIG. 1 shows a refrigerant circuit of an air conditioner provided with a remote control device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  In the figure, (A) is an indoor unit, (B) is an outdoor unit, and the indoor unit (A) and the outdoor unit (B) constitute an air conditioner (C). The outdoor unit (B) includes a compressor (1) incorporating a motor (1a), a four-way switching valve (2), an air-cooling outdoor heat exchanger (3) having an air-cooling fan (3a), and a valve A variable opening electric expansion valve (4) is provided, the body of which is driven by a pulse motor. On the other hand, the indoor unit (A) is equipped with an air-cooling indoor heat exchanger (5) having an air-cooling fan (5a).

  The compressor (1), the four-way switching valve (2), the outdoor heat exchanger (3) and the electric expansion valve (4) of the outdoor unit (B), and the indoor heat exchanger (5) of the indoor unit (A) ) Is connected to a closed circuit by a refrigerant pipe (7) to form a refrigerant circuit (10) which forms a refrigeration cycle.

  Then, in the refrigerant circuit (10), in the heating operation mode, the four-way selector valve (2) is switched as shown by the broken line to flow the refrigerant as indicated by the broken line arrow, and the refrigerant from the compressor (1) is The heat is sent to a heat exchanger (5), the refrigerant is heat exchanged with room air by means of this indoor heat exchanger (5), heat is radiated, the room is heated, and then the flow rate and pressure of the refrigerant are used as an electric expansion valve (4) While adjusting at the same time, heat exchange with the outside air in the outdoor heat exchanger (3) to absorb heat, and return to the compressor (1) as a gas refrigerant is repeated.

  On the other hand, in the cooling operation mode, the four-way switching valve (2) is switched as indicated by the solid line to flow the refrigerant as indicated by the solid line arrow to send the refrigerant from the compressor (1) to the outdoor heat exchanger (3). After heat exchange with the outside air by the outdoor heat exchanger (3) and dissipating the heat, the flow rate and pressure of the refrigerant are adjusted by the electric expansion valve (4), and the indoor air by the indoor heat exchanger (5) Heat exchange, heat absorption, cooling the room, and returning to the compressor (1) as a gas refrigerant.

  The indoor unit (A) further includes a control unit (20). In addition, the outdoor unit (B) is also provided with a control unit (25). The control unit (20) of the indoor unit (A) and the control unit (25) of the outdoor unit (B) can communicate with each other.

  The control unit (25) of the outdoor unit (B) is connected to the motor (1a) of the compressor (1), the air cooling fan (3a) of the outdoor heat exchanger (3), and the electric expansion valve (4) With this control unit (25), the rotational speed of the motor (1a) of the compressor (1), the rotational speed of the air-cooling fan (3a) of the outdoor heat exchanger (3), and the opening degree of the electric expansion valve (4) It is controlled. On the other hand, the control unit (20) of the indoor unit (A) is connected to the air-cooling fan (5a) of the indoor heat exchanger (5), and the control unit (20) allows the rotational speed of the indoor fan (5a) to be increased. It is controlled.

  Further, a remote control device (30) is connected to the control unit (20) of the indoor unit (A). The remote control device (30) has a plurality of operation buttons (not shown), and when the operator of the room operates these operation buttons, the cooling operation or heating operation of the air conditioner (C) Set the room setting temperature, air volume, etc. at the time of the instruction, the operation.

  FIG. 2 shows an internal schematic configuration of the control unit (20) of the indoor unit (A) and the remote control device (30).

  In the figure, the control unit (20) of the indoor unit (A) and the remote control device (30) are connected by a wire (50). The control unit (20) includes a microcomputer (21), a communication port (22), and a storage unit (23). The microcomputer (21) performs data communication with the remote control device (30) through the communication port (22), and transmits a cooling operation command or a heating operation command transmitted from the remote control device (30), and setting during the operation The indoor temperature, the set air volume and the like are received, and setting data of these are stored in the storage unit (23). Further, the control unit (20) communicates with the control unit (25) of the outdoor unit (B) so as to perform the instructed cooling or heating operation, and the control unit (25) of the outdoor unit (B) While switching the four-way switching valve (2), receive the actual indoor temperature from a temperature sensor (described later) disposed in the remote control device (30), and set the indoor unit ( The control unit (25) of the outdoor unit (B) communicates with the control unit (25) of the outdoor unit (B) while controlling the rotational speed of the air cooling fan (5a) of the indoor heat exchanger (5) of A). The rotational speed of the motor (1a) of the compressor (1) of the outdoor unit (B), the rotational speed of the air-cooling fan (3a) of the outdoor heat exchanger (3), and the opening degree of the electric expansion valve (4) Control.

<Configuration of Remote Control Device (30)>
On the other hand, the remote control device (30) receives power supply of DC voltage from the indoor unit (A) through the wiring (50), and the wiring (50) receives the DC voltage and the remote control device (20). Communication data between the control units (20) is superimposed.

  The remote control device (30) internally includes a communication port (31) connected to the wiring (50), a filter (32), a 5 V power circuit (33), and a 3.3 V circuit (34). And a remote control communication IC (35), a microcomputer (36), and an operation button (37). The operation button (37) is a power button, a cooling / heating operation button, a temperature setting button, an air volume setting button, an air direction setting button, and the like. In addition, the remote control device (30) includes a temperature sensor (38) for detecting an indoor temperature, a driving LED (39) for driving display, and a backlight LED (40a) for lighting the liquid crystal display surface of the remote control device (30). ), An EEPROM (41) as a main storage unit, an NFC circuit (42) having a storage unit (42a) therein, and an NFC antenna (43).

  The filter (32) passes the DC voltage of the communication data and the DC voltage supplied to the remote control device (20) through the wiring (50) and the communication port (31) to the 5V power circuit (33). The 5V power supply circuit (33) generates a 5V DC voltage from the DC voltage passed through the filter (32). The 3.3V circuit (34) steps down the 5V voltage generated by the 5V power supply circuit (33) to 3.3V. The remote control communication IC (35) operates at 5 V generated by the 5 V power supply circuit (33), and performs the cooling / heating operation with the control unit (20) of the indoor unit (A) via the wiring (50) Communicates setting data such as command, set room temperature, actual room temperature, and air volume setting.

  Further, the microcomputer (control unit) (36) becomes operable by receiving the 3.3 V voltage generated by the 3.3 V circuit (34). The microcomputer (36) controls the cooling / heating operation from the operation button (37), the set room temperature, the air volume setting, the actual room temperature from the temperature sensor (38), etc., and the recorded contents of the EEPROM (41) (35) and the communication port (31) to transmit to the control unit (20) of the indoor unit (A). The microcomputer (36) performs 8-bit parallel communication with the liquid crystal display module (40) to display the cooling / heating operation, the set room temperature, the air flow, etc. on the liquid crystal display surface of the remote control device (30). Command the liquid crystal display module (40). Furthermore, when the microcomputer (36) becomes operable by the power supply from the 3.3 V circuit (34), the microcomputer (36) reads the stored contents of the storage unit (42a) of the NFC circuit (42).

  When the storage content of the storage unit (42a) of the NFC circuit (42) relates to the setting of the remote control device (30), the microcomputer (36) causes the EEPROM (41) to reflect the setting. Forward. On the other hand, if it relates to the setting of the indoor unit (A), to the microcomputer (21) of the indoor unit (A) via the remote control communication IC (35), the communication port (31) and the wiring (50) Then, the microcomputer (21) of the indoor unit (A) transfers the data to the storage unit (23) of the indoor unit (A).

  The EEPROM (41) is connected to the microcomputer (36) via a bidirectional bus (44) such as a two-wire system, and data is stored from the microcomputer (36) via the bidirectional bus (44), The stored data is read out to the microcomputer (36). The data to be stored is, for example, an operating state such as a cooling operation, a heating operation, an indoor set temperature, an air flow, and the like. These operation states are used when the remote control device (30) is restored after the power is shut off. In addition, display settings such as language, history of abnormality, communication log and the like are also stored.

  Furthermore, the NFC circuit (42) and the NFC antenna (43) are characteristic features of the present embodiment. The NFC antenna (43) transmits radio waves from an antenna of a reader / writer such as an NFC circuit and an NFC antenna built in an external device (not shown) such as a microcomputer disposed close to the remote control device (30) The received data is received, power is supplied by electromagnetic induction by the received radio wave, and power is generated.

  The NFC circuit (42) is connected to the NFC antenna (43) and connected to the microcomputer (36) via the bidirectional bus (44).

  As shown in FIG. 3, inside the NFC circuit (42), the storage unit (42a) as an auxiliary storage unit, an NFC control unit (42b), and a power supply separation filter (42c) are provided. . The storage capacity of the storage unit (42a) is smaller than the storage capacity of the EEPROM (41). The NFC circuit (42) does not have a built-in battery, and receives the power generated by the NFC antenna (43) to operate the NFC control unit (42b) and the storage unit (42a). The NFC control unit (42 b) stores the data from the external device received by the NFC antenna (43) in the storage unit (42 a). Further, the NFC circuit (42) causes the NFC control unit (42b) to carry the data in the storage unit (42a) on the radio wave by the power generated by the NFC antenna (43) and transmit the data from the NFC antenna (43) to the external device. Send. At this time, the external device receives the radio wave from the NFC antenna (43) with the antenna of the built-in reader / writer, and the control unit inside the reader / writer extracts data from the received radio wave.

  Therefore, the NFC circuit (42) and the NFC antenna (43) do not supply power from the 3.3 V circuit (34) to the built-in microcomputer (36), that is, when the built-in microcomputer (36) is inoperable. Even if the built-in microcomputer (36) receives power supply and is in an operating state, it independently receives power supply by radio waves received from the external device and generates power to communicate with the external device, It functions as an external communication unit (45) that stores information (data) included in radio waves received from an external device in the internal auxiliary storage unit (42a).

  Also, when the setting data is stored in the storage unit (42a), the NFC control unit (42b) of the NFC circuit (42) outputs an interrupt signal to the bidirectional bus (44).

  Furthermore, in the power supply separation filter (42c), a power supply voltage generated by the NFC antenna (43) receiving radio waves from an external device is supplied to the 5V power supply circuit (33) and the 3.3V circuit (34). Function as a protection device that protects the microcomputer (36) etc. from inadvertent operation by the power supply voltage generated by the NFC antenna (43) and protects only the NFC circuit (42) from operating. .

<Data setting to remote control device (30)>
Next, the setting operation of various data to the remote control device (30) will be described.

  The first data setting is in the stage where the remote control unit (30) and the indoor unit (A) are not connected by wiring (50), that is, the remote control unit (30) alone, and the built-in microcomputer (36) supplies power. In a non-operating condition without receiving

  The following description will be given on the assumption that various data to be set in the remote control device (30) are stored in advance in the external device.

  First, as shown in FIG. 4, the remote control device (30) and the external device (60) are brought close to each other. Specifically, the NFC antenna (43) of the remote control device (30) and the antenna of a reader / writer (not shown) provided in the external device (60) are brought close, and in this state, radio waves are transmitted from the external device (60). The setting data is transmitted to the NFC antenna (43), and the setting data is stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) in the NFC circuit (42). The external device (60) may be a PC (personal computer) or a smartphone.

  Specifically, the setting data transmitted from the external device (60) is, for example, each address (address in centralized address setting) to be set in multiple rooms in the multi-air conditioning system for buildings, a remote control device 30) Backlight setting value such as the brightness of the backlight LED (40a) provided in the liquid crystal display module (40) or display setting such as contrast setting value, temperature or Celsius display data, any of multiple languages Data on whether to display the language and data on whether or not the indoor unit (A) is installed on a high ceiling, etc. are data on the indoor unit (A).

  Here, to describe centralized address setting in the multi-air conditioning system for buildings, a large number of remote control devices (30) arranged in multiple rooms are prepared, for example, in one place in one room. In addition, the external device (60) stores in advance a rule of address change, for example, a rule to be changed in ascending order or descending order. The first address is stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) of the remote control device (30) by close proximity wireless communication between the NFC antenna (43) of the first remote control device (30) and the external device (60). Do. After that, the external device (60) repeats to sequentially assign the next address according to the above rule to the next remote control device (30). In this way, addresses are sequentially stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) in the NFC circuit (42) with respect to a number of remote control devices (30) in which the built-in microcomputer (36) is inoperable.

  Then, as described above, the address setting using the NFC circuit (42) and the NFC antenna (43) of the remote control device (30), the appearance setting such as the brightness of the backlight LED (40a) of the remote control device (30) The indoor unit installed with the remote control device (30) is carried by carrying the remote control device (30) into each room of the building after setting of the display data of Celsius or Fahrenheit is completed. A) Connect with wiring (50) and install the remote control device (30) in the room. As a result, each remote control device (30) receives power supply from the corresponding indoor unit (A) through the wiring (50), and thereafter, when the power button of the operation button (37) is operated, the built-in microcomputer 36) becomes operational.

  After that, when the remote control device (30) receives power supply from the indoor unit (A) and the built-in microcomputer (36) becomes operable as shown in the write setting flowchart at power on shown in FIG. S1), the microcomputer (36) reads out the stored contents of the auxiliary storage unit (42a) of the NFC circuit (42) by itself (step S2). When the stored content read out from the built-in microcomputer (36) is the setting data of the remote control device (30), for example, the backlight setting such as the brightness of the backlight LED (40a) included in the liquid crystal display module (40) (In the case of YES at step S3), the setting data is transferred to the EEPROM (main storage unit) (41) so as to reflect the setting data (step S4). Furthermore, when the stored content read out is not the setting of the remote control device (30), the built-in microcomputer (36), for example, data necessary for setting or operation of the connected indoor unit (A), for example, the address of the indoor unit (A) If it is the case (NO in step S3), the data of these are transmitted to the microcomputer (21 of the indoor unit (A) via the remote control communication IC (35), the communication port (31) and the wiring (50). ) (Step S5). The microcomputer (21) of the indoor unit (A) stores the transmitted data in the storage unit (23).

  Thereafter, the power on state of the remote control device (30) (that is, the operating state of the built-in microcomputer (36)) as shown in the write setting flow chart after the power on shown in FIG. ) (Step S10), perform other data setting necessary for the remote control device (30) using the close proximity wireless communication between the NFC circuit (42) and the NFC antenna (43) and the external device (60), Data in the NFC circuit (42) in the auxiliary storage unit (42a). The setting data includes, for example, time setting and data setting performed on site among various settings for the indoor unit (A) such as setting of the wind direction for each indoor unit (A). The above time setting includes year, month, day, hour, presence or absence of summer time, position information using GPS, and the like.

  When setting data such as the above time setting is stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) of the NFC circuit (42) from the external device (60), the NFC circuit (42) outputs an interrupt signal to the bidirectional bus (44) Do. When the built-in microcomputer (36) receives the interrupt signal from the NFC circuit (42) (step S11), it checks the memory content of the auxiliary storage unit (42a) in the NFC antenna (43) (step S12), and changes it If the stored data is the setting of the remote control device 30 (YES in step S13), the EEPROM 41 via the bi-directional bus 44 reflects the contents of the change. ) (Step S14). On the other hand, when the storage data of the auxiliary storage unit (42a) is not the setting of the remote control device (30) (in the case of NO in step S13), that is, the change content is the setting data regarding the indoor unit (A) etc. The setting data is transferred to the microcomputer (21) of the indoor unit (A) via the communication port (31) and the wiring (50) (step S15), and the microcomputer (21) transfers the data to the storage unit (23). Remember.

  After the built-in microcomputer (36) is activated by powering on the remote control device (30), the operator operates the operation button (37) of the remote control device (30) to set various settings such as clock settings. Of course, data can be set.

  In addition, after the built-in microcomputer (36) of the remote control device (30) becomes active, the microcomputer (36) approaches the external device (60) using the NFC circuit (42) and the NFC antenna (43). By wireless communication, setting data from the external device (60) can be stored directly in the EEPROM (main storage unit) (41) instead of the auxiliary storage unit (42a) in the NFC circuit (42), or the indoor unit (A) Directly to the microcomputer (21).

<Effect of this embodiment>
In this embodiment, even if the remote control device (30) is not connected to the indoor unit (A) and power is not supplied to the microcomputer (36) built in the remote control device (30), the remote control device (30) The proximity wireless communication between the NFC circuit (42) and the NFC antenna (43) and the external device (60) allows the external device (60) to perform various data such as centralized addresses in a multi-air conditioning system for buildings and display designation of ) In the NFC circuit (42). Therefore, it is possible to easily perform the various data settings without repeating the operation of the operation button (37) of the remote control device (30) as many times as in the prior art.

  In particular, in the centralized address setting in the multi-air conditioning system for buildings, a large number of remote control devices (30) and external devices (60) are prepared in, for example, a work desk in a predetermined room, and the remote control devices (30) are sequentially installed. A predetermined address is stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) of the NFC circuit (42) of each remote control device (30) simply by repeating the above-mentioned close proximity wireless communication by bringing one each into proximity with the external device (60) It can be done. Therefore, as in the prior art, after each remote control device (30) is carried into the room and connected to the indoor unit (A) in the room with the wiring (50), each remote control device (30) receiving power supply. There is no need to set various data by using the operation button (37).

  In addition, the NFC circuit (42) of the remote control device (30) can be used either when there is no power supply to the built-in microcomputer (36) or when there is power supply or in any case. Apart from the operation of (36), since it becomes operable by receiving power supply from the external device (60) by close proximity wireless communication with the external device (60), various setting data received from the external device (60) can be NFC It can be reliably stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) in the circuit (42).

  Furthermore, after the remote control device (30) receives power supply from the indoor unit (A) through the wiring (50) after various data settings using proximity wireless communication between the remote control device (30) and the external device (60), At this time, when the built-in microcomputer (36) becomes operable and the setting data stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) of the NFC circuit (42) is the setting data of the remote control device (30), Setting data is transferred to the EEPROM (41), and if it is not the setting data of the remote control device (30), the setting data thereof is transferred to the external indoor unit (A) or the like. Therefore, as in the case where various data settings are made using the operation button (37), the setting data of the brightness and contrast value of the liquid crystal display surface of the remote control device (30) can be remote controlled without operating the operation button (37). While being able to be reflected in the device (30), various data such as its own address can be transferred to the indoor unit (A) from the remote control device (30) to the indoor unit (A) via the wiring (50).

  In addition, the power supply voltage generated at the NFC antenna (43) is blocked by the power separation filter (42c) from entering the 5 V power circuit (33) or the 3.3 V circuit (34). The generated power supply voltage is used only for the operation of the NFC circuit (42), and various data communicated from the external device (60) can be reliably stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a). In the state where there is no power supply to), the microcomputer (36) is prevented from operating carelessly.

  Also, after the remote control device (30) receives power supply via the wiring (50), the auxiliary storage unit (42a) of the NFC circuit (42) by close proximity wireless communication between the remote control device (30) and the external device (60). The microcomputer (36) becomes operable even when the setting data of the remote control device (30) such as time data and the setting data of the indoor unit (A) other than the setting of the remote control device (30) are stored. Transfers the setting data of the remote control device (30) of the auxiliary storage unit (42a) to the EEPROM (41), so the setting data of the remote control device (30) such as the time data is transferred to the remote control device (30) at this time. Liquid crystal display can be performed, and setting data of the indoor unit (A) other than the setting of the remote control device (30) can be transferred to the indoor unit (A) via the communication port (31).

  As described above, it is possible to obtain an air conditioner provided with the remote control device (30), the indoor unit (A) and the outdoor unit (B), in which various data can be easily set by near field communication with the external device (60). it can.

(Other embodiments)
The present invention may be configured as follows for each of the above embodiments.

  In the above embodiment, the remote control device (30) is provided with the NFC circuit (42) and the NFC antenna (43) to perform proximity wireless communication with the external device (60), but the present invention is not limited to this. A near field communication may be performed by incorporating an RF tag IC of RFID (Radio Frequency IDentifier) using a radio wave or a magnetic field. In addition to the wireless communication, the remote control device (30) and the external device (60) are connected by a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connection cable or the like, and power is supplied from the external device while various types in the external device (60). The data may be stored in an auxiliary storage unit provided in the remote control device (30). In this case, in the remote control device (30), in addition to the built-in microcomputer (36), a control unit such as a dedicated microcomputer for communicating with an external device is required.

  Furthermore, the setting data stored in the EEPROM (main storage unit) (41) may be the value itself of the communication data with the external device, the setting value obtained by converting the communication data, or the microcomputer (control unit) It may be a program for updating.

  As described above, according to the present invention, since the external communication unit capable of communicating with the external device is provided even when power is not supplied to the control unit in the remote control device, various data can be obtained without operating the operation button many times. It is useful to apply to, for example, a remote control device used in a multi-air conditioning system for a building or an air conditioner equipped with the same, for example.

A indoor unit B outdoor unit C air conditioner 30 remote control device 31 communication port 36 microcomputer (control unit)
37 operation button 41 EEPROM (main storage unit)
42 NFC circuit 42a storage unit (auxiliary storage unit)
42b NFC control unit 42c power supply separation filter (protection device)
43 NFC antenna 45 external communication unit 60 external device

Claims (8)

A remote control device (30) for an air conditioner, including a control unit (36) and a main storage unit (41) for storing setting data for air conditioning,
An external communication unit (45) capable of communicating with an external device different from the air conditioner even when power is not supplied to the control unit (36);
A remote control device for an air conditioner, comprising: an auxiliary storage unit (42a) for storing communication data obtained by the external communication unit (45) by communication with the external device. In the remote control device for an air conditioner according to claim 1,
The external communication unit (45)
A remote control device for an air conditioner, which communicates with the external device and stores communication data in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) separately from the operation of the control unit (36). The remote control device for an air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2
The control unit (36)
The power is supplied at the start of energization of the remote control device (30), the external communication unit (45) reads the communication data stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) by communication with the external device, and the remote control device (30) is set A remote control device for an air conditioner characterized by reflecting its setting if any, and storing communication data in the main storage section (41). The remote control device for an air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2
The control unit (36)
The power is supplied at the start of energization of the remote control device (30), and the external communication unit (45) communicates with the external device to read out the communication data stored in the auxiliary storage unit (42a), not setting the remote control device (30) In this case, the remote control device for an air conditioner is transferred to the outside through the communication port (31). The remote control device for an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
Protection that the power required for the operation of the external communication unit (45) does not affect the control unit (36) when the external communication unit (45) communicates with the external device when the remote control device (30) is not energized. A remote control device for an air conditioner characterized by comprising a device (32). The remote control device for an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The control unit (36)
When the external communication unit (45) newly stores communication data in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) by communication with the external device after the start of energization of the remote control device (30), the new communication data is remote control device 30. A remote control device for an air conditioner, which reflects the setting if it is the setting of 30) and stores communication data in the main storage unit (41). The remote control device for an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The control unit (36)
When the external communication unit (45) newly stores communication data in the auxiliary storage unit (42a) by communication with the external device after the start of energization of the remote control device (30), the new communication data is remote control device 30) A remote control device for an air conditioner, which is transferred to the outside through the communication port (31) if the setting is other than 30). An air conditioner comprising the remote control device (30) for an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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