JP2019199981A - Heat source system, control device, heat source system operation method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a heat source system which includes a refrigerant sensor and achieves user's convenience in a period from the time when the refrigerant sensor detects refrigerant leakage until the time when the refrigerant sensor is replaced.SOLUTION: A heat source system includes: a refrigerant sensor which detects refrigerant leakage; a refrigerant leakage detection part which maintains an abnormality detection state until the refrigerant sensor is replaced in a case where the refrigerant sensor detects refrigerant leakage; and an operation control part which shifts an operation mode of the heat source system to an emergency operation mode in which emergency operation can be conducted when detecting occurrence of a predetermined emergency operation mode shifting event in the abnormality detection state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to a heat source system, a control device, a heat source system operating method, and a program.

Some air conditioner systems using flammable refrigerants include a refrigerant sensor for detecting refrigerant leakage. Since this refrigerant sensor may be deteriorated by touching the refrigerant, the operation of the air conditioning system may be prohibited until the refrigerant sensor is replaced after the refrigerant sensor detects the refrigerant.
For example, in the air conditioner described in Patent Document 1, when refrigerant gas is detected by a refrigerant gas detection sensor (refrigerant sensor), after the compressor is stopped, the compressor is operated until the refrigerant gas detection sensor is replaced. Do not resume.

JP-A-2006-90111

  When a heat source system such as an air conditioning system includes a refrigerant sensor, if the operation of the heat source system is prohibited until the refrigerant sensor is replaced after the refrigerant sensor detects a refrigerant leak, the user cannot use the heat source system during that time. Convenience decreases. It is preferable that the convenience of the user can be achieved after the refrigerant sensor detects the refrigerant leak and before the refrigerant sensor is replaced.

  The present invention is a heat source system including a refrigerant sensor, and a heat source system, a control device, and a heat source system operation that can improve user convenience after the refrigerant sensor detects refrigerant leakage and before the refrigerant sensor is replaced. Methods and programs are provided.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the heat source system includes a refrigerant sensor that detects refrigerant leakage, and a refrigerant that maintains an abnormality detection state until the refrigerant sensor is replaced when the refrigerant sensor detects refrigerant leakage. A leakage detection unit; and an operation control unit that shifts the operation mode of the heat source system to an emergency operation mode capable of emergency operation when the occurrence of a predetermined emergency operation mode transition event is detected in the abnormality detection state.

  In the abnormality detection state, the operation control unit shifts the operation mode to an abnormal stop mode in which emergency operation is impossible when it is determined that a predetermined period has elapsed since the refrigerant sensor detected refrigerant leakage. It may be.

  When the operation control unit determines that a predetermined period has elapsed since the operation mode has shifted to the emergency operation mode in the abnormality detection state, the operation control unit may shift to an abnormal stop mode in which the emergency operation is not possible. Good.

  The operation control unit may determine whether or not the emergency operation mode transition event has occurred with authentication of the authority to shift to the emergency operation mode.

  The operation control unit determines that the operation mode is the emergency operation mode or the heat source system cannot perform the emergency operation according to the result of the determination operation for evaluating the amount of remaining refrigerant at the start of the emergency operation. You may make it determine in any of an abnormal stop mode.

  The operation control unit determines the operation mode based on at least one of a temperature difference between an outdoor heat exchanger temperature and an outdoor temperature and a temperature difference between an indoor temperature and an indoor heat exchanger temperature. May be.

  The operation control unit may operate the fan of the indoor heat exchanger during the emergency operation mode and when the operation is stopped.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, in the abnormality detection state that is maintained until the refrigerant sensor is replaced when the refrigerant sensor detects refrigerant leakage, the control device performs a predetermined emergency operation mode transition event. When generation | occurrence | production is detected, the operation control part which transfers the operation mode of a heat-source system to the emergency operation mode in which emergency operation is possible is provided.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, the heat source system operating method includes a step of detecting a refrigerant leak using a refrigerant sensor that detects a refrigerant leak, and the refrigerant sensor is replaced when the refrigerant leak is detected. And maintaining the abnormality detection state until the occurrence of a predetermined emergency operation mode transition event in the abnormality detection state, and transitioning the operation mode of the heat source system to an emergency operation mode capable of emergency operation. .

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the program is stored in an abnormality detection state that is maintained until the refrigerant sensor is replaced when the refrigerant sensor detects refrigerant leakage to a computer that controls the heat source system. This is a program for executing a step of shifting the operation mode of the heat source system to an emergency operation mode capable of emergency operation when the occurrence of the emergency operation mode transition event is detected.

  According to the heat source system, the control device, the heat source system operation method, and the program described above, in the heat source system including the refrigerant sensor, the user convenience until the refrigerant sensor is replaced after the refrigerant sensor detects the refrigerant leakage. Can be achieved.

It is a schematic structure figure showing an example of composition of a heat source system concerning an embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the function structural example of the control apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the refrigerant | coolant sensor which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of the operation mode of the heat-source system which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of the operation | movement procedure of the heat-source system in the emergency operation mode which concerns on embodiment.

Hereinafter, although embodiment of this invention is described, the following embodiment does not limit the invention concerning a claim. In addition, not all the combinations of features described in the embodiments are essential for the solving means of the invention.
Drawing 1 is a schematic structure figure showing the example of composition of the heat source system concerning an embodiment. Below, the case where the heat source system which concerns on embodiment is an air conditioning system is demonstrated to an example. However, the scope of application of the present invention is not limited to the air conditioning system, and the present invention can be applied to various systems or devices that require replacement of the refrigerant sensor when refrigerant leakage is detected. For example, the application target of the present invention may be a refrigerator.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 1, the heat source system 1 includes an outdoor unit 2 and an indoor unit 3. The outdoor unit 2 includes an expansion valve 11, an outdoor heat exchanger 12, an outdoor fan 13, a four-way valve 14, a compressor 15, an outdoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 21, and an outdoor air temperature sensor 22. The indoor unit 3 includes an indoor heat exchanger 31, an indoor fan 32, an indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 41, an indoor temperature sensor 42, a refrigerant leak detection unit 43, and a control device 100. The refrigerant leak detection unit 43 includes a refrigerant sensor 44.
Further, in the heat source system 1, each part other than the control device 100 is collectively referred to as a heat source system main body 200. The control device 100 controls the heat source system main body 200.

  The expansion valve 11 and the outdoor heat exchanger 12 are connected by a first pipe W11. The outdoor heat exchanger 12 and the four-way valve 14 are connected by a second pipe W12. The four-way valve 14 and the inlet side of the compressor 15 are connected by a third pipe W13. The outlet side of the compressor 15 and the four-way valve 14 are connected by a fourth pipe W14. The four-way valve 14 and the indoor heat exchanger 31 are connected by a fifth pipe W21. The indoor heat exchanger 31 and the expansion valve 11 are connected by a sixth pipe W22.

As described above, the case where the heat source system 1 is an air conditioning system is described here as an example. The heat source system 1 as an air conditioning system adjusts the temperature of air in a room or the like. Moreover, in the heat source system 1 as an air conditioning system, a heating operation and a cooling operation can be switched.
In the heating operation, the gaseous refrigerant compressed by the compressor 15 flows into the indoor heat exchanger 31 via the fourth pipe W14, the four-way valve 14, and the fifth pipe W21 in this order. The gaseous refrigerant that has flowed into the indoor heat exchanger 31 dissipates heat and condenses by heat exchange with the indoor air. The refrigerant that has become liquid by condensation is decompressed by the expansion valve 11 via the sixth pipe W22 and then flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 12 via the first pipe W11. The refrigerant flowing into the outdoor heat exchanger 12 absorbs heat and evaporates by heat exchange with the outside air (outdoor air). The refrigerant that has become a gas by evaporation flows into the compressor 15 via the second pipe W12, the four-way valve 14, and the third pipe W13 in this order, and is compressed.

  On the other hand, in the cooling operation, the gaseous refrigerant compressed by the compressor 15 flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 12 through the fourth pipe W14, the four-way valve 14, and the second pipe W12 in this order. The gaseous refrigerant flowing into the outdoor heat exchanger 12 dissipates heat and condenses by heat exchange with the outside air. The refrigerant that has become liquid by condensation is decompressed by the expansion valve 11 via the first pipe W11 and then flows into the indoor heat exchanger 31 via the sixth pipe W22. The refrigerant flowing into the indoor heat exchanger 31 absorbs heat and evaporates due to heat exchange with indoor air. The refrigerant turned into a gas by evaporation flows into the compressor 15 through the fifth pipe W21, the four-way valve 14, and the third pipe W13 in this order, and is compressed.

The outdoor unit 2 is installed in a place where heat exchange with outside air is possible, for example, outdoors.
The expansion valve 11 depressurizes the liquid refrigerant flowing through the expansion valve 11 itself. This decompression facilitates evaporation of the refrigerant.
The outdoor heat exchanger 12 causes heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outside air. In the heating operation, the low-pressure liquid refrigerant decompressed by the expansion valve 11 flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 12, absorbs heat and evaporates through heat exchange with the outside air. Therefore, the outdoor heat exchanger 12 absorbs the heat of vaporization from the outside air and vaporizes the liquid refrigerant. On the other hand, in the cooling operation, the high-pressure gaseous refrigerant compressed by the compressor 15 flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 12, dissipates heat and condenses by heat exchange with the outside air.
The outdoor fan 13 blows outside air to the outdoor heat exchanger 12. Heat exchange in the outdoor heat exchanger 12 is promoted by the ventilation of the outdoor fan.

The four-way valve 14 switches between heating operation and cooling operation by switching the refrigerant flow path. In the heating operation, the four-way valve 14 causes the refrigerant from the compressor 15 to flow into the indoor heat exchanger 31 by connecting the fourth pipe W14 and the fifth pipe W21, and the second pipe W12 and the third pipe. The refrigerant from the outdoor heat exchanger 12 is caused to flow into the compressor 15 by connecting W13. On the other hand, in the cooling operation, the four-way valve 14 causes the refrigerant from the compressor 15 to flow into the outdoor heat exchanger 12 by connecting the fourth pipe W14 and the second pipe W12, and also the fifth pipe W21 and the second pipe W12. The refrigerant from the indoor heat exchanger 31 is caused to flow into the compressor 15 by connecting the three pipes W13.
The compressor 15 compresses a gaseous refrigerant.

The outdoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 21 measures the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 12. For example, the outdoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 21 is provided on the outer surface of the refrigerant pipe of the outdoor heat exchanger 12, and measures the temperature of the outer surface of the pipe.
The outside air temperature sensor 22 measures the outside air temperature.
Any one or more of the expansion valve 11, the four-way valve 14, the compressor 15, and the outside air temperature sensor 22 may be provided outside the outdoor unit 2.

The indoor unit 3 is installed in a room whose temperature is to be adjusted. Hereinafter, the room in which the indoor unit 3 is installed is simply referred to as a room.
The indoor heat exchanger 31 exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the indoor air. In the heating operation, a high-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows into the indoor heat exchanger 31 and dissipates heat and condenses by heat exchange with indoor air. Therefore, the indoor heat exchanger 31 liquefies the gaseous refrigerant compressed by the compressor 15 and dissipates the heat of condensation to the indoor air. On the other hand, in the cooling operation, a low-pressure liquid refrigerant flows into the indoor heat exchanger 31 and absorbs heat and evaporates by heat exchange with indoor air.
The indoor fan 32 blows indoor air in which the indoor unit 3 is installed to the indoor heat exchanger 31. Heat exchange in the indoor heat exchanger 31 is promoted by the blowing of the indoor fan 32.

The indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 41 measures the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 31. For example, the indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 41 is provided on the outer surface of the refrigerant pipe of the indoor heat exchanger 31 and measures the temperature of the outer surface of the pipe.
The indoor temperature sensor 42 measures the indoor air temperature.

The refrigerant leak detection unit 43 detects refrigerant leak with the refrigerant sensor 44. Specifically, the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 detects the refrigerant in the heat source system 1 (in particular, the refrigerant leak in the indoor unit 3) by detecting the refrigerant with the refrigerant sensor 44. For example, a refrigerant leakage detector 43 is provided because it is necessary to monitor or preferably monitor the leakage of the refrigerant, for example, a flammable refrigerant or a slightly flammable refrigerant is used as the refrigerant of the heat source system 1. Yes.
The refrigerant leak detection unit 43 is configured as, for example, a substrate on which the refrigerant sensor 44 and a driver for the refrigerant sensor 44 are mounted.

  The refrigerant sensor 44 may be deteriorated when it comes into contact with the refrigerant. If the refrigerant sensor 44 deteriorates, refrigerant leakage cannot be detected accurately, and the refrigerant sensor 44 needs to be replaced. Therefore, when the refrigerant sensor 44 detects the refrigerant, the refrigerant sensor 44 may have deteriorated by touching the refrigerant, and the refrigerant sensor 44 needs to be replaced. Therefore, when the refrigerant leak is detected by the refrigerant sensor 44, the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 maintains the abnormality detection state until the refrigerant sensor 44 is replaced. The refrigerant leak detection unit 43 notifies the control device 100 of the abnormality detection state by continuously outputting the abnormality signal during the abnormality detection state.

  Or you may make it show an abnormality detection state by methods other than the output of an abnormality signal, such as the refrigerant | coolant leak detection part 43 showing an abnormality detection state using a flag. For example, the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 may turn on the abnormality detection flag when the refrigerant sensor 44 detects the refrigerant, and the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 may turn off the abnormality detection flag when the refrigerant sensor 44 is replaced. In this case, the function of the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 may be configured as a part of the function of the control device 100.

  When replacing the refrigerant sensor 44, the refrigerant sensor 44 may be configured to be detachable as a single unit, and only the refrigerant sensor 44 may be replaced. Alternatively, not only the refrigerant sensor 44 but also all or part of the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 may be replaced, such as the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 configured as a substrate and being replaced as described above. Good.

The control device 100 controls the heat source system main body 200. The control apparatus 100 is comprised using computers, such as a microcomputer (Microcomputer or Microcontroller), for example.
FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of the control device 100. In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 2, the control device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a display unit 130, an operation input unit 120, a storage unit 180, and a control unit 190. The control unit 190 includes an operation control unit 191.

The communication unit 110 functions as an interface with the heat source system main body 200. Specifically, the control device 100 receives a signal from each part of the heat source system main body 200 such as a sensor signal from a sensor provided in the heat source system main body 200. In addition, the communication unit 110 transmits a control signal to each unit of the heat source system main body 200 according to the control of the control unit 190.
The display unit 130 includes a display device such as a liquid crystal panel or an LED (Light Emitting Diode) panel, and displays various types of information according to the control of the control unit 190. For example, the display unit 130 displays a warning message indicating refrigerant leakage and a message prompting replacement of the refrigerant sensor 44 when the refrigerant leakage detection unit 43 detects refrigerant leakage.

  The operation input unit 120 includes, for example, switches such as pushbutton switches, or an input device such as a touch sensor that constitutes a touch panel in combination with the display unit 130, and receives an operation by a person. The operation input unit 120 accepts operations by the user (user) of the heat source system 1 such as a normal operation command operation (ON operation), a stop command operation (OFF operation), and a temperature setting operation. In addition, the operation input unit 120 receives an operation by a maintenance / inspection worker of the heat source system 1 such as a manufacturer's service person.

  In particular, the operation input unit 120 receives an emergency operation mode transition command operation by a maintenance / inspection worker of the heat source system 1. The heat source system 1 can be operated as an emergency operation under a predetermined condition even after the refrigerant sensor 44 detects refrigerant leakage and before the refrigerant sensor 44 is replaced. In this emergency operation, the heat source system 1 should be stopped based only on the detection result of the refrigerant sensor 44. However, when a predetermined condition indicating that the heat source system 1 can be operated is satisfied, an emergency measure is taken. The heat source system 1 is operated as follows.

One of the conditions for the emergency operation of the heat source system 1 is that a maintenance / inspection worker having specialized knowledge about the heat source system 1 determines that the operation is possible and performs an emergency operation mode transition command operation. From the viewpoint of ensuring safety, the emergency operation mode transition command operation is performed by an operation accompanied by authentication of transition authority to the emergency operation mode (for example, password authentication). When the operation mode of the heat source system 1 is the emergency operation mode, the heat source system 1 can perform the emergency operation. The operation mode of the heat source system 1 is managed by the operation control unit 191.
The maintenance inspection worker of the heat source system 1 is also simply referred to as an operator. The switch for operating the emergency operation mode command is provided at a position where only the operator operates, such as on the board inside the indoor unit 3 (normally a position where the user cannot operate), thereby authenticating the authority to enter the emergency operation mode ( Worker authentication may be performed.

The storage unit 180 stores various data. The storage unit 180 is configured using a storage device provided in the control device 100.
The control unit 190 performs various processes by controlling each unit of the control device 100. The control unit 190 is configured, for example, when a CUP (Central Processing Unit) provided in the control device 100 reads out and executes a program from the storage unit 180.

The operation control unit 191 controls the heat source system main body 200. Specifically, based on the operation received by the operation input unit 120 and the signal received by the communication unit 110 from each part of the heat source system main body 200, control commands for the respective parts of the heat source system main body 200 (in particular, the outdoor fan 13, four-way Control commands for each of the valve 14, the compressor 15 and the indoor fan 32). Then, the operation control unit 191 transmits a control signal indicating the generated control command from the communication unit 110 to each unit of the heat source system main body 200.
In particular, when the operation control unit 191 detects the occurrence of a predetermined emergency operation mode transition event in an abnormality detection state (a state in which the refrigerant sensor 44 has not been replaced yet after the refrigerant sensor 44 has detected refrigerant leakage). The operation mode of the heat source system 1 is shifted to the emergency operation mode described above.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an arrangement example of the refrigerant sensor 44. In the example shown in FIG. 3, on the front side of the indoor unit 3, a ventilation port, an intake port, a panel that functions as the operation input unit 120 and the display unit 130, and a refrigerant leak detection unit 43 including the refrigerant sensor 44 are arranged. Has been.
FIG. 3 shows an arrangement example when the refrigerant is heavier than air, and the refrigerant sensor 44 is provided below the indoor unit 3. In the example of FIG. 3, the refrigerant sensor 44 is provided inside the indoor unit 3. As described above, by providing the refrigerant sensor 44 inside the indoor unit 3, it is relatively easy to detect refrigerant leakage occurring inside the indoor unit 3. Further, by providing the refrigerant sensor 44 inside the indoor unit 3, the possibility of erroneously detecting a gas used indoors as a refrigerant such as indoor use of hair spray becomes relatively low.
In the example of FIG. 3, a panel that functions as the operation input unit 120 and the display unit 130 is disposed at a relatively easy to see and operate position near the center of the front surface of the indoor unit 3.

However, the arrangement of each part in the indoor unit 3 is not limited to a specific one.
Further, all or part of the control device 100 may be configured as a device different from the indoor unit 3. For example, the operation input unit 120 and the display unit 130 may be provided in a remote controller.
The indoor temperature sensor 42 may also be configured as a device different from the indoor unit 3, for example, provided in a remote controller.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation mode of the heat source system 1. In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, the operation control unit 191 of the control device 100 controls the heat source system main body 200 in the normal operation mode in the normal state. On the other hand, in the abnormality detection state, the operation control unit 191 controls the heat source system main body 200 in the emergency operation mode or the abnormal stop mode.
As described above, the abnormality detection state is a state where the refrigerant sensor 44 has not yet been replaced after the refrigerant sensor 44 detects refrigerant leakage. The refrigerant leak detection unit 43 notifies the control device 100 of the abnormality detection state by continuing to output the abnormality signal.
The normal state here is a state that is not an abnormal detection state. Therefore, in a normal state, the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 does not output an abnormal signal.

In the normal operation mode and the emergency operation mode, the heat source system 1 can execute a function as the heat source system 1 such as air conditioning. In particular, the compressor 15 can operate in the normal operation mode and the emergency operation mode.
In the abnormal stop mode, the heat source system 1 stops the function as the heat source system 1 such as air conditioning. In particular, in the abnormal stop mode, the operation control unit 191 stops the compressor 15 (does not operate).

  When the refrigerant sensor 44 detects refrigerant leakage and the state determined by the refrigerant leakage detection unit 43 transitions from the normal state to the abnormality detection state, the operation control unit 191 performs the determination operation by controlling the heat source system main body 200. The heat source system main body 200 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 from the normal operation mode to the emergency operation mode or the abnormal stop mode according to the result of the determination operation. The determination operation is an operation for evaluating the amount of refrigerant in the heat source system main body 200 (the remaining amount of refrigerant sealed in the heat source system main body 200).

In the determination operation, the operation control unit 191 controls the heat source system main body 200 to operate in a cooling operation or a heating operation for a fixed time such as 5 minutes. In particular, the operation control unit 191 rotates the compressor 15 at a predetermined rotation speed for a predetermined time. Then, the operation control unit 191 evaluates the temperature difference between the outdoor heat exchanger temperature and the outside air temperature and the temperature difference between the indoor heat exchanger temperature and the room temperature after a predetermined time has elapsed.
In the case of the cooling operation, the operation control unit 191 determines whether or not Expression (1) is established.

  The outdoor heat exchanger temperature, the outdoor air temperature, the indoor temperature, and the indoor heat exchanger temperature are measured by the outdoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 21, the outdoor air temperature sensor 22, the indoor temperature sensor 42, and the indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 41, respectively. It is. Each of the first threshold value and the second threshold value is a predetermined positive constant. The first threshold value and the second threshold value may be the same value or different values.

When Formula (1) is materialized, it can be evaluated that the refrigerant sufficiently remains in the heat source system main body 200. In this case, it is considered that the refrigerant leak detected by the refrigerant sensor 44 was erroneously detected, or even if the refrigerant is leaking, the leak amount is very small. Therefore, when it is determined that the expression (1) is established, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the emergency operation mode. On the other hand, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the abnormal stop mode when it is determined that the formula (1) is not satisfied.
On the other hand, in the case of heating operation, the operation control unit 191 determines whether or not Expression (2) is established.

  Each of the third threshold value and the fourth threshold value is a predetermined positive constant. The third threshold value and the fourth threshold value may be the same value or different values. Further, the third threshold value may be the same as the first threshold value or the second threshold value, or may be different from both. The value of the fourth threshold value may be the same as the value of the first threshold value or the value of the second threshold value, or may be a value different from both.

  When Formula (2) is materialized, it can be evaluated that the refrigerant sufficiently remains in the heat source system main body 200. In this case, it is considered that the refrigerant leak detected by the refrigerant sensor 44 was erroneously detected, or even if the refrigerant is leaking, the leak amount is very small. Therefore, when it is determined that the expression (2) is established, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the emergency operation mode. On the other hand, if it is determined that the expression (2) is not established, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the abnormal stop mode.

  The transition from the emergency operation mode or the abnormal stop mode to the normal operation mode is performed by replacing the refrigerant sensor 44. When the refrigerant sensor 44 is replaced and transitions from the abnormal detection state to the normal state and the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 stops outputting the abnormal signal, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the normal operation mode. .

  The transition from the abnormal stop mode to the emergency operation mode is performed according to the above-described emergency operation mode transition command operation. It is necessary for the operator to check the heat source system 1 and determine that the heat source system 1 can be operated and to make the heat source system 1 perform an emergency operation for the convenience of the user, such as taking time to arrange the refrigerant sensor 44. When it is determined that there is, an emergency operation mode transition command operation is performed. When the operation control unit 191 detects that the emergency operation mode transition command operation is performed in the abnormal stop mode, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the emergency operation mode.

The transition from the emergency operation mode to the abnormal stop mode is performed according to the passage of time or the result of the determination operation.
The emergency operation mode is an emergency measure to the last, and it is not preferable to continue the operation of the heat source system 1 for a long time in a state where the refrigerant sensor 44 may be deteriorated. Therefore, when the operation control unit 191 determines in the abnormality detection state that the predetermined period has elapsed since the refrigerant sensor 44 detected the refrigerant leakage, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the abnormal stop mode. Alternatively, when the operation control unit 191 determines that a predetermined period has elapsed after shifting to the emergency operation mode in the abnormality detection state, the operation mode of the heat source system 1 is shifted to the abnormal stop mode. Good.

  Further, even when the operation mode of the heat source system 1 is the emergency operation mode, the state of the heat source system 1 may change and become unsuitable for operation after that, for example, the refrigerant leaks. Therefore, the operation control unit 191 performs the above-described determination operation at the start of the emergency operation (that is, at the time of the emergency operation mode and when the heat source system 1 is switched from the stop to the operation). When the operation control unit 191 determines that the above-described condition is not satisfied in the determination operation, the operation mode of the heat source system 1 is abnormally stopped from the emergency operation mode in the same manner as the transition from the normal operation mode to the abnormal stop mode described above. Switch to mode.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation procedure of the heat source system 1 in the emergency operation mode.
When the operation command operation is performed in the emergency operation mode, or when the normal operation mode is shifted to the emergency operation mode during the operation of the heat source system 1, the heat source system 1 starts the emergency operation (step S101).
The operation control unit 191 determines whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed since the refrigerant sensor 44 detected refrigerant leakage at the start of the emergency operation of the heat source system 1. In the example of FIG. 5, the operation control unit 191 determines whether or not it is within one week after the refrigerant sensor 44 detects refrigerant leakage (step S102). However, the predetermined period here is not limited to one week. In addition, instead of determining whether or not the predetermined period has elapsed since the operation sensor 191 detected the refrigerant leak in step S102, whether or not the predetermined period has elapsed since the transition to the emergency operation mode. It may be determined whether or not.

  If it is determined in step S102 that more than one week has passed (step S102: NO), the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the abnormal stop mode and causes the heat source system 1 to abnormally stop. To stop (step S131). In this case, as described above, the heat source system 1 stops the function as the heat source system 1 such as air conditioning. In particular, the operation control unit 191 puts the compressor 15 in a stopped state (does not operate).

  On the other hand, when it determines with it being less than one week by step S102 (step S102: YES), the heat source system 1 performs the determination operation mentioned above (step S111). Then, the operation control unit 191 determines whether or not the result of the determination operation is normal (step S112). Normal here means that emergency operation is possible, and specifically, that the conditions described with reference to equations (1) and (2) are satisfied.

When it determines with it being normal in step S112 (step S112: NO), a process progresses to step S131. Therefore, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the abnormal stop mode, and stops the heat source system 1 by the abnormal stop.
On the other hand, when the operation control unit 191 determines normal in step S112 (step S112: YES), the heat source system 1 continues the emergency operation (step S121). Thereafter, when a stop command operation is performed, the heat source system 1 stops (step S122). In this case, the operation control unit 191 stops the compressor 15. On the other hand, the operation control unit 191 operates (rotates) the indoor fan 32 (the fan of the indoor heat exchanger 31). The operation control unit 191 rotates the indoor fan 32 to agitate the leaked refrigerant so that it does not accumulate when the refrigerant leaks.
When an operation command operation is performed after step S122, the process proceeds to step S101.

As described above, the refrigerant sensor 44 detects refrigerant leakage. When the refrigerant sensor 44 detects the refrigerant leak, the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 maintains the abnormality detection state until the refrigerant sensor 44 is replaced. When the operation control unit 191 detects the occurrence of a predetermined emergency operation mode transition event in the abnormality detection state, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to an emergency operation mode capable of emergency operation.
According to the heat source system 1, the heat source system 1 performs an emergency operation under conditions such as the occurrence of an emergency operation mode transition event after the refrigerant sensor 44 detects refrigerant leakage and until the refrigerant sensor 44 is replaced. In this respect, convenience for the user can be achieved.

Further, when the operation control unit 191 determines that a predetermined period has elapsed since the refrigerant sensor 44 detected the refrigerant leak in the abnormality detection state, the operation control unit 191 sets the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to an abnormal stop mode in which the emergency operation is not possible. To migrate.
The emergency operation of the heat source system 1 is an emergency measure to the last, and it is not preferable to leave the refrigerant sensor 44 in a state where there is a possibility of deterioration. When the predetermined period has elapsed since the refrigerant sensor 44 detected the refrigerant leakage, the operation control unit 191 disables the operation of the heat source system 1 as an emergency operation, thereby improving the convenience of the user within the predetermined period. In addition, it is possible to urge the replacement so that the refrigerant sensor 44 is not left without being replaced even after a predetermined period.

In addition, when the operation control unit 191 determines that a predetermined period has elapsed since the operation mode of the heat source system 1 has shifted to the emergency operation mode in the abnormality detection state, the operation control unit 191 shifts to an abnormal stop mode in which the emergency operation is not possible. .
The predetermined period is not limited to a period after the refrigerant sensor 44 detects refrigerant leakage, and may be a period after the operation mode of the heat source system 1 shifts to the emergency operation mode. Also in this case, it is possible to improve the convenience of the user within the predetermined period, and it is possible to urge the replacement so that the refrigerant sensor 44 is not left without being replaced after the predetermined period.

In addition, the operation control unit 191 determines whether or not an emergency operation mode transition event accompanied by authentication of authority to transition to the emergency operation mode has occurred. Specifically, when the operation input unit 120 accepts an operation for instructing the transition to the emergency operation mode, the operation control unit 191 performs authentication of the operator (for example, password authentication), and the operator enters the emergency operation mode. It is determined whether or not the user has transfer authority. Then, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the emergency operation mode when it is determined that the operator has the authority to shift to the emergency operation mode.
Operation in which the operation control unit 191 authenticates the operator in this manner and causes the heat source system 1 to perform emergency operation when it is determined that an operator having specialized knowledge about the heat source system 1 can perform emergency operation. Is possible.

Further, the operation control unit 191 sets the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to either the emergency operation mode or the abnormal stop mode according to the result of the determination operation for evaluating the amount of remaining refrigerant at the start of the emergency operation. decide.
Even when the operation mode of the heat source system 1 shifts to the emergency operation mode, the state of the heat source system 1 may change and the emergency operation may not be appropriate after that, such as refrigerant leakage. When the operation control unit 191 performs the determination operation, the emergency operation can be canceled when the emergency operation of the heat source system 1 is not appropriate.

Further, the operation control unit 191 operates the operation mode of the heat source system 1 based on at least one of the temperature difference between the outdoor heat exchanger temperature and the outdoor temperature and the temperature difference between the indoor temperature and the indoor heat exchanger temperature. To decide.
Thereby, the operation control unit 191 can determine the operation mode of the heat source system 1 by a relatively simple calculation such as calculation of a temperature difference.
In addition, when the outdoor heat exchanger temperature and the outdoor temperature, or the indoor temperature and the indoor heat exchanger temperature are measured for the purpose of detecting an abnormality of the heat source system 1, a temperature sensor is separately provided for determining the operation mode of the heat source system 1. There is no need to provide it.

Further, the operation control unit 191 operates the indoor fan 32 (the fan of the indoor heat exchanger 31) in the emergency operation mode and when the operation is stopped.
In the heat source system 1, by rotating the indoor fan 32 in this manner, when the refrigerant is leaking, it can be stirred so that the leaked refrigerant does not accumulate.

Each unit is recorded by recording a program for realizing all or part of the functions of the control device 100 on a computer-readable recording medium, causing the computer system to read and execute the program recorded on the recording medium. You may perform the process of. Here, the “computer system” includes an OS and hardware such as peripheral devices.
Further, the “computer system” includes a homepage providing environment (or display environment) if a WWW system is used.
The “computer-readable recording medium” refers to a storage device such as a flexible medium, a magneto-optical disk, a portable medium such as a ROM and a CD-ROM, and a hard disk incorporated in a computer system. The program may be a program for realizing a part of the functions described above, and may be a program capable of realizing the functions described above in combination with a program already recorded in a computer system.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and includes design changes and the like without departing from the gist of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Heat source system 21 Outdoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 22 Outdoor air temperature sensor 41 Indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 42 Indoor temperature sensor 43 Refrigerant leak detection part 44 Refrigerant sensor 100 Control apparatus 110 Communication part 120 Operation input part 130 Display part 180 Storage part 190 Control unit 191 Operation control unit 200 Heat source system main body

Claims (10)

A refrigerant sensor for detecting refrigerant leakage;
When the refrigerant sensor detects a refrigerant leak, a refrigerant leak detector that maintains an abnormality detection state until the refrigerant sensor is replaced;
In the abnormality detection state, when the occurrence of a predetermined emergency operation mode transition event is detected, an operation control unit that shifts the operation mode of the heat source system to an emergency operation mode capable of emergency operation;
A heat source system comprising: In the abnormality detection state, the operation control unit shifts the operation mode to an abnormal stop mode in which emergency operation is impossible when it is determined that a predetermined period has elapsed since the refrigerant sensor detected refrigerant leakage.
The heat source system according to claim 1. When the operation control unit determines that a predetermined period has elapsed since the operation mode shifted to the emergency operation mode in the abnormality detection state, the operation control unit shifts to an abnormal stop mode where emergency operation is impossible.
The heat source system according to claim 1. The operation control unit determines whether or not the occurrence of the emergency operation mode transition event with authentication of the authority to transition to the emergency operation mode.
The heat source system according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The operation control unit determines that the operation mode is the emergency operation mode or the heat source system cannot perform the emergency operation according to the result of the determination operation for evaluating the amount of remaining refrigerant at the start of the emergency operation. Determine one of the abnormal stop modes,
The heat source system according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The operation control unit determines the operation mode based on at least one of a temperature difference between an outdoor heat exchanger temperature and an outdoor temperature, and a temperature difference between an indoor temperature and an indoor heat exchanger temperature.
The heat source system according to claim 5. The operation control unit operates the fan of the indoor heat exchanger during the emergency operation mode and when the operation is stopped.
The heat source system according to any one of claims 1 to 6. When the occurrence of a predetermined emergency operation mode transition event is detected in an abnormality detection state that is maintained until the refrigerant sensor is replaced when the refrigerant sensor detects a refrigerant leak, the operation mode of the heat source system can be emergency operated. A control device including an operation control unit for shifting to the emergency operation mode. Detecting refrigerant leakage using a refrigerant sensor for detecting refrigerant leakage;
When detecting the refrigerant leakage, maintaining the abnormality detection state until the refrigerant sensor is replaced;
In the abnormality detection state, when detecting the occurrence of a predetermined emergency operation mode transition event, the process of shifting the operation mode of the heat source system to an emergency operation mode capable of emergency operation;
A method of operating a heat source system. To the computer that controls the heat source system,
When the occurrence of a predetermined emergency operation mode transition event is detected in an abnormality detection state that is maintained until the refrigerant sensor is replaced when the refrigerant sensor detects a refrigerant leak, the operation mode of the heat source system can be emergency operated. Program to execute the process of shifting to the emergency operation mode.

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