JP2021042877A - Server, control system and control program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a server that allows for exact prediction of power consumption, and to provide a method for controlling the same and a control program.SOLUTION: A cloud server (14) includes a calculation unit (72) for calculating predicted power consumption of an air conditioner when being provided that normal operation is run for the same time as the time in which energy-saving operation is run using operation result information of a normal operation mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

The present invention relates to a user's mobile terminal, an air conditioner located at a certain location, a server that communicates via a communication network, a control method thereof, and a control program.

There is known a method of operating home appliances such as air conditioners under energy saving control and presenting the energy consumption reduction rate (also called energy saving rate) to the user.

For example, Patent Document 1 presents the effect of energy saving control of an air conditioner by using a graph as shown in FIG. The integrated consumption graph line 171 in the graph 170 of FIG. 11 shows the integrated value of the air conditioning energy consumption when the energy saving control is implemented, which is measured from the start date of the current control target period to yesterday. Further, the integrated consumption graph line 173 connected to the integrated consumption graph line 171 shows the integrated value of the predicted air conditioning energy consumption at the time of implementing the energy saving control predicted from the current day to the end date of the current control target period. ing. On the other hand, the integrated consumption graph line 172 in the graph 170 shows the integrated value of the air-conditioning energy consumption assumed when the operation is performed without the energy saving control (reference time). The integrated consumption graph line 174 connected to the integrated consumption graph line 172 shows the integrated value of the predicted air-conditioning energy consumption assumed at the time of reference.

In the graph 170 of FIG. 11, it can be seen that at the end of the current control period, when the energy saving control is implemented, the integrated consumption amount falls within the designated upper limit. On the other hand, the integrated consumption assumed at the time of reference exceeds the specified upper limit, and the effect of energy saving control is visually shown.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2014-6011 (published on January 16, 2014)

By the way, in Patent Document 1, the relative air conditioning energy consumption in the air conditioning schedule is calculated using a table based on the air conditioning schedule data as the control content. The set temperature (and outside air temperature) and the air conditioning energy consumption are associated with the table, and the relative air conditioning energy consumption is calculated from the set temperature set in the air conditioning schedule and the table. To do. Therefore, in Patent Document 1, even if there is no actual measurement data at the time of non-energy saving, the air conditioning energy consumption assumed when the energy saving control is not performed is calculated.

However, the external factors such as the structure, the degree of heat insulation, and the size of the property in which the air conditioner is installed differ depending on the property. Therefore, the assumed air-conditioning energy consumption when energy saving control is not implemented using a table that does not reflect such external factors lacks accuracy. As a result, the information about energy saving presented to the user is also inaccurate.

One aspect of the present invention is to realize a server, a control method thereof, and a control program that enable accurate prediction of energy consumption.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the server according to one aspect of the present invention is a server that communicates with an air conditioner that performs either normal operation or energy-saving operation via a communication network. The energy-saving operation in which the energy-saving operation is performed by using the acquisition unit that acquires the operation record information including the power consumption information of the air conditioner and the power consumption information of the air conditioner when the normal operation is performed. The calculation unit that calculates the expected power consumption of the air conditioner during the normal operation at the same time as the time, and the measured power consumption of the air conditioner during the energy-saving operation time are compared with the estimated power consumption. It includes a comparison unit and an output unit that outputs a comparison result by the comparison unit.

Further, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the control program according to one aspect of the present invention is a control program for operating a computer as the above-mentioned server, and is a control program for operating a computer as each of the above-mentioned parts. is there.

Further, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the control system according to one aspect of the present invention is via a communication network with a user's mobile terminal, an air conditioner that performs either normal operation or energy-saving operation. A control system including a mobile terminal and a server that communicates with the air conditioner, the acquisition unit that acquires operation record information including power consumption information of the air conditioner, and the normal operation are performed. Using the power consumption information of the air conditioner at that time, a calculation unit that calculates the expected power consumption of the air conditioner by the normal operation at the same time as the energy-saving operation time in which the energy-saving operation was performed, and a calculation unit. It is provided with a comparison unit for comparing the measured power consumption of the air conditioner and the expected power consumption for the energy-saving operation time, and an output unit for outputting the comparison result by the comparison unit.

Further, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the server control method according to one aspect of the present invention is a server that communicates with an air conditioner that performs either normal operation or energy-saving operation via a communication network. In the control method of the above, the acquisition step of acquiring the operation record information including the power consumption information of the air conditioner and the power consumption information of the air conditioner when the normal operation is performed are used. A calculation step for calculating the expected power consumption of the air conditioner during the normal operation at the same time as the energy-saving operation time during the energy-saving operation, the measured power consumption of the air conditioner during the energy-saving operation time, and the above. It includes a comparison step for comparing the expected power consumption and an output step for outputting the comparison result obtained by the comparison step.

Further, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the control method of the control system according to one aspect of the present invention communicates with a user's mobile terminal and an air conditioner that performs either normal operation or energy-saving operation. A control method for a control system including a mobile terminal and a server that communicates with the air conditioner via a network, and an acquisition process for acquiring operation record information including power consumption information of the air conditioner. Using the power consumption information of the air conditioner when the normal operation is performed, the expected power consumption of the air conditioner by the normal operation at the same time as the energy-saving operation time when the energy-saving operation is performed. A calculation step for calculating the above, a comparison step for comparing the actually measured power consumption of the air conditioner for the energy-saving operation time, and the expected power consumption, and an output step for outputting the comparison result obtained by the comparison step. ,including.

According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to realize a server, a control method thereof, and a control program that enable accurate prediction of energy consumption.

It is a figure which shows the outline of the control system which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the schematic structure of the air conditioner included in the control system which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the schematic structure of the control part and the storage part in the air conditioner shown in FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the schematic structure of the mobile terminal included in the control system which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the schematic structure of the cloud server included in the control system which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. The display screen of the display part of the mobile terminal included in the control system which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is shown. The data structure of the operation record information acquired by the cloud server included in the control system according to the embodiment of the present invention is shown. The data structure of the history information accumulated by the cloud server included in the control system according to the embodiment of the present invention is shown. It is a sequence diagram which shows the flow of the energy saving effect calculation processing in the control system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a sequence diagram which shows the flow of the energy saving effect calculation processing in the control system of another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure of the prior art.

[Embodiment 1]
Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9.

(Overview of control system)
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an outline of the control system 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the control system 1 includes an air conditioner 11 (air conditioner), a remote controller (hereinafter, remote controller) of the air conditioner 11, a wireless AP (access point) 13, a cloud server 14 (server), and the like. It is equipped with a mobile terminal 15.

The air conditioner 11 and the wireless AP 13 are installed in the user's home 21. The air conditioner 11 is communicably connected to the cloud server 14 via the wireless AP 13 and the wide area communication network 22 (communication network). Further, the mobile terminal 15 is communicably connected to the cloud server 14 via the wide area communication network 22.

In the present embodiment, the configuration including the Internet is illustrated as the wide area communication network 22, but a telephone line network, a mobile communication network, a CATV (CAble TeleVision) communication network, a satellite communication network, or the like can also be used. The air conditioner 11 and the mobile terminal 15 are both wireless communication devices, and can communicate with each other via the wireless AP 13 without going through the wide area communication network 22.

In the present embodiment, the air conditioner 11 and the mobile terminal 15 are registered in association with each other on the cloud server 14. As a result, the mobile terminal 15 can remotely control the air conditioner 11 via the cloud server 14. It is possible to remotely control a plurality of air conditioners 11 from one mobile terminal 15. It is also possible to remotely control one air conditioner 11 from a plurality of mobile terminals 15.

The air conditioner 11 of the present embodiment has at least one of a cooling function, a dehumidifying function, a blowing function, and a heating function. Further, the air conditioner 11 has a "normal operation" mode (hereinafter, "normal operation mode") and an "energy saving operation" mode (hereinafter, "energy saving operation mode") as operation modes. The normal operation mode is an operation method that operates in response to an operation of the remote controller 12 or the mobile terminal 15 by the user. The energy-saving operation mode is an operation method in which the output of the air conditioner is controlled to be loosened in a timely manner according to the external environment under the initiative of the cloud server to reduce power consumption. The internal configuration of the air conditioner 11 will be described later.

The mobile terminal 15 of the present embodiment includes a device provided with a display unit such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal.

In this embodiment, the power consumption of the air conditioner 11 when the normal operation and the energy-saving operation are executed for a certain period of time based on the operation record information including the power consumption information acquired from the air conditioner 11 on the cloud server 14. Calculate each amount. In this embodiment, regarding the calculated power consumption, while using the measured data of the power consumption during the period when the energy-saving operation mode is executed, the expected power consumption when the normal operation mode is executed during the period is used. The amount (hereinafter referred to as the expected power consumption) is used. In the present embodiment, this estimated power consumption is calculated based on the actual measurement data of the power consumption calculated during the operation in the normal operation mode executed before the period. In the present embodiment, the cloud server 14 compares the calculated power consumption of both operation modes, and provides the comparison result to the mobile terminal 15.

In the present embodiment, the cloud server 14 obtains an energy saving evaluation value such as an energy saving rate as a comparison result, and outputs the energy saving evaluation value to the mobile terminal 15. The mobile terminal 15 displays the acquired energy saving evaluation value on the display unit. As a result, the user can confirm the energy saving effect of the air conditioner 11 through the mobile terminal 15. The user who has confirmed the energy saving effect can change the operation setting of the air conditioner 11 by using the mobile terminal 15.

<Device configuration>
The hardware configuration and software configuration of each device included in the control system 1 of the present embodiment will be described below.

(Hardware configuration of air conditioner)
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the air conditioner 11. As shown in FIG. 2, the air conditioner 11 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, an air conditioner main body 33, a sensor unit 34, a communication unit 35 (communication device), an operation panel 36, a remote control light receiving unit 37, and an audio output unit 38. It has.

The control unit 31 controls the operation of each unit of the air conditioner 11, and is composed of, for example, a computer device composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an arithmetic processing unit such as a dedicated processor, and the like. The control unit 31 comprehensively controls the operation of each part of the air conditioner 11 by reading and executing a program for executing various controls in the air conditioner 11 stored in the storage unit 32. The details of the control unit 31 will be described later.

The storage unit 32 stores various data used in the air conditioner 11, and includes a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and the like. The details of the storage unit 32 will be described later.

The air conditioner main body 33 includes a mechanism necessary for executing the original function of the air conditioner 11. Specifically, the air conditioner main body 33 includes a compressor 33a for heating or cooling air, a blower fan 33b for sending heated or cooled air to the outside of the air conditioner 11, and the like.

The sensor unit 34 senses the indoor environment of the user's house 21 in which the air conditioner 11 harmonizes the air. Specifically, the sensor unit 34 includes a temperature sensor 34a for detecting temperature, a humidity sensor 34b for detecting humidity, a power sensor 34c for measuring power consumption of the air conditioner 11, and the like. Since known sensors can be used as these sensors, detailed description thereof will be omitted. The air conditioner 11 performs an air conditioning operation such as a cooling operation and a heating operation so that the room temperature (room temperature) becomes a set temperature. Further, the air conditioner 11 performs an air conditioning operation such as a dehumidifying operation so that the humidity in the room becomes the set humidity. As described above, the environment sensed by the temperature sensor 34a and the humidity sensor 34b is necessary for the air conditioner 11 to control the air conditioning operation.

The communication unit 35 communicates with the cloud server 14 and the mobile terminal 15 via the wireless AP 13 and the wide area communication network 22.

The operation panel 36 is a user interface for inputting an instruction to the air conditioner 11 and notifying the state of the air conditioner 11 (for example, operation mode, outdoor temperature, set temperature, etc.).

The remote control light receiving unit 37 is for receiving an infrared signal from the remote control 12 and receiving instruction information from the remote control 12.

The audio output unit 38 is an audio output device such as a speaker. The control unit 31 outputs a voice based on the voice data stored in the storage unit 32 from the voice output unit 38. Since the operation is performed by voice, the air conditioner 11 may be provided with a voice input device such as a microphone.

(Software configuration of air conditioner)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a control unit 31 and a storage unit 32 in the air conditioner 11. As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 31 includes a setting acquisition unit 41, a sensor information acquisition unit 42, a transmission control unit 43, and an operation control unit 45. Further, the storage unit 32 includes a user setting storage unit 32a and an operation setting storage unit 32b.

The setting acquisition unit 41 acquires the user setting information set by the user with the remote controller 12. The setting acquisition unit 41 acquires the set temperature information and the operation mode setting information regarding whether or not to set the energy-saving operation mode as the user setting information. The setting acquisition unit 41 sends the acquired user setting information to the transmission control unit 43 and writes it in the user setting storage unit 32a. By registering the user setting information set by the user on the mobile terminal 15 in the cloud server 14, the user setting information may be acquired from the communication unit 35.

The sensor information acquisition unit 42 appropriately acquires sensor values detected by various sensors of the sensor unit 34. The acquired sensor value is transmitted to the cloud server 14 via the communication unit 35, or is appropriately referred to in order to determine how the operation control unit 45 controls the air conditioner main body 33.

The transmission control unit 43 controls the communication unit 35 so as to generate information about the air conditioner 11, in particular, operation record information, and transmit the information to the cloud server 14. The operation record information is acquired from each of the sensor unit 34 and the information indicating when, how long, and what kind of operation (operation mode) the air conditioner 11 performed or did not operate (operation state). Includes information indicating time-series data for each sensor value. The data structure of the operation record information will be described in detail with reference to the attached figure, but the operation record information includes, for example, the operation start time, the duration, the operation state, the operation mode, the set temperature, the air volume, and the integrated value of the power consumption. Information such as (power consumption information) is included.

The transmission control unit 43 may also transmit the rotation speeds of the compressor 33a and the blower fan 33b to the cloud server 14 as information regarding the air conditioner 11.

The operation control unit 45 controls the operation of the air conditioner main body 33 based on the operation setting information for various operation modes stored in the operation setting storage unit 32b. For example, the operation setting information for the normal operation mode includes PID (Proportional Integral Differential) control parameters and the like. Further, in the present embodiment, the operation setting information for the energy-saving operation mode includes the maximum rotation speed of the compressor 33a and the like, and the operation setting information is provided by the energy-saving operation control unit 70 of the cloud server 14.

(Hardware configuration of mobile terminal)
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the mobile terminal 15.

As an example, the mobile terminal 15 includes a control unit 51, a storage unit 52, a communication unit 53, a display unit 54, and an input unit 55.

The control unit 51 controls the operation of each unit of the mobile terminal 15, and is composed of, for example, a computer device composed of an arithmetic processing unit such as a CPU or a dedicated processor. The control unit 51 comprehensively controls the operation of each unit of the mobile terminal 15 by reading and executing a program for executing various controls in the mobile terminal 15 stored in the storage unit 52. The details of the control unit 51 will be described later.

The storage unit 52 stores various data used in the mobile terminal 15, and includes a RAM, a ROM, and the like.

The communication unit 53 communicates with the air conditioner 11 and the cloud server 14 via the wireless AP 13 or the wide area communication network 22.

The display unit 54 is a display device that visually displays the information processed by the control unit 51 to the user. For example, the display unit 54 is composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or the like.

The input unit 55 is an input device that receives a user's input operation and outputs an instruction signal corresponding to the input operation to the control unit 51. As an example, the display unit 54 and the input unit 55 are touch panels. The input unit 55 is composed of a device capable of detecting that an indicator body such as a user's finger comes into contact with or approaches the input surface of the input unit 55, which is also the display surface of the display unit 54.

(Software configuration of mobile terminal)
As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 51 of the mobile terminal 15 includes a remote control unit 56 and a setting unit 57 as an example. Each unit of the control unit 51 is constructed by, for example, a dedicated application downloaded to the mobile terminal 15.

Further, the control unit 51 may include a function block (not shown) that is standardly provided in the mobile terminal (for example, a smartphone) in order to realize the function originally provided in the mobile terminal 15.

The remote control unit 56 provides a tool for the user to remotely control the air conditioner 11. The remote control unit 56 displays, for example, an operation screen composed of software buttons for operating the air conditioner 11 on the display unit 54. Then, the input unit 55 receives the input operation performed on the operation screen, and transmits the instruction signal corresponding to the received input operation to the air conditioner 11 via the wireless AP 13.

The setting unit 57 provides an input support tool for the user to input setting information. The setting unit 57 displays, for example, a setting screen composed of user interface (UI) components (widgets) for inputting setting information. Then, after the input unit 55 accepts the user's input operation performed on the setting screen, the setting unit 57 generates setting information based on the instruction signal corresponding to the received input operation. The generated setting information is transmitted from the communication unit 53 to the air conditioner 11 via the wireless AP 13 or to the cloud server 14 via the wide area communication network 22.

(Hardware configuration of cloud server)
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the cloud server 14.

The cloud server 14 manages the air conditioner 11, and as shown in FIG. 5, includes a control unit 61, a storage unit 62, and a communication unit 63. The control unit 61, the storage unit 62, and the communication unit 63 of the cloud server 14 have the same hardware configurations as the control unit 31, the storage unit 32, and the communication unit 35 of the air conditioner 11, respectively. Omit. The details of the control unit 61 and the storage unit 62 will be described later.

(Cloud server software configuration)
As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 61 of the cloud server 14 includes an energy-saving operation control unit 70, an acquisition unit 71, a calculation unit 72, a comparison unit 73, and an output unit 74. Further, the storage unit 62 includes a history information storage unit 81 and a comparative information storage unit 82.

The energy-saving operation control unit 70 controls the operation of the air conditioner so that the air conditioner is operated in the energy-saving operation mode. The operation setting information for the energy-saving operation mode including the maximum rotation speed of the compressor 33a is generated and transmitted to the operation control unit 45 of the air conditioner 11 via the communication unit 63.

The acquisition unit 71 collects the operation record information transmitted by the air conditioner 11 from the communication unit 63. The acquisition unit 71 adds the collected operation record information to the history information, which is a database in which the collected operation record information is accumulated, and writes it in the history information storage unit 81.

The calculation unit 72 includes an energy saving period specification unit 91, a normal period specification unit 92, a pre-calculation unit 93, an actual measurement value calculation unit 94, and an expected value calculation unit 95.

The energy saving period specifying unit 91 acquires the operation record information of the period of operation in the energy saving operation mode among the history information stored in the history information storage unit 81 from the history information storage unit 81. In particular, the energy saving period specifying unit 91 acquires information on the start time t1 of the operation in the energy saving operation mode and the integrated value y1 (hereinafter, power consumption y1) of the power consumption up to the start time t1. The acquired information is usually output to the specific period specific unit 92.

The normal period specifying unit 92 acquires the operation record information of the period of operation in the normal operation mode from the history information stored in the history information storage unit 81 from the history information storage unit 81. Specifically, the normal period specifying unit 92 obtains information on the period of the normal operation mode that was performed immediately before the time t1 (before the start of the energy saving operation time) based on the information acquired from the energy saving period specifying unit 91. get. In particular, the normal period specifying unit 92 determines the start time t2 of the normal operation mode (time before the time t1) and the power consumption up to the time t2 while the operation in the normal operation mode is stably performed. Information with the integrated value y2 (hereinafter, power consumption y2) is acquired.

Specifically, the normal period specifying unit 92 sets the operation mode and operation of all the operation record information within the range 90 minutes before the start time t1 of the operation by the energy-saving operation mode of the air conditioner 11 (within the predetermined first time). Get the status and set temperature. Then, the normal period specifying unit 92 determines whether or not the acquired information conforms to a predetermined first condition. The predetermined first condition is that the operation modes are all the same (normal operation mode), the operation states (on and off) are all on, and the set temperatures are all the same within the range 90 minutes before the above. It is a condition that it is. When this condition is satisfied, the start time t2 of the operation record information and the information of the power consumption y2 up to the start time t2 are acquired. Further, the normal period specifying unit 92 determines whether or not the acquired start time t2 and the power consumption amount y2 conform to a predetermined second condition. The predetermined second condition is whether or not the above-mentioned t1 and the acquired t2 have a relationship of (t1-t2)> 10 minutes. In short, the second condition is whether or not the operation time in the normal operation mode continues for more than 10 minutes (predetermined second time). The fact that the operation continues for more than 10 minutes means that the operation in the normal operation mode is stable. That is, it can be said that the operation in the stable normal operation mode reflects the indoor environment of the user's house 21 in which the air conditioner 11 is installed. By using the operation results of the normal operation mode based on the actual situation in the subsequent processing, automatic control suitable for the user's house 21 (operation control by the cloud server-led energy-saving operation mode) can be realized. If the above-mentioned first and second conditions are not cleared, the subsequent processing is not performed.

The normal period specifying unit 92 outputs information on the start time t2 of the normal operation mode satisfying the above two conditions and the power consumption amount y2 to the pre-calculation unit 93.

The pre-calculation unit 93 per unit time when it is assumed that the operation is continued in the normal operation mode as it is after the above-mentioned start time t1 from the information obtained from the normal period specific unit 92 immediately before entering the energy-saving operation mode. Calculate the power consumption. Specifically, the pre-calculation unit 93 uses the following equation (1);
Power consumption per unit time (wm1)
= (Y1-y2) / (t1-t2)
... (1)
The power consumption per unit time (wm1) at the time of stabilization is calculated by. The unit of power consumption (wm1) per unit time is Wh / min. The pre-calculation unit 93 writes the calculated power consumption value (wm1) per unit time in the comparison information storage unit 82.

When the operation in the energy-saving operation mode starting from the start time t1 is completed, the actual measurement value calculation unit 94 consumes the integrated value y3 (hereinafter, consumption) of the power consumption up to the time t3 (hereinafter, end time) immediately before that and the end time t3. The electric energy y3) is acquired from the history information storage unit 81. Then, the following equation (2);
Actual power consumption (W1) = y3-y1
... (2)
The actual power consumption (W1) of the operation in the energy-saving operation mode performed between the start time t1 and the time t3 is calculated. However, if there is a change in the operation history immediately after time t1, such as the end of the energy-saving operation mode or the switching of the operation mode or the set temperature, the calculation is not performed. The actual measurement value calculation unit 94 writes the calculated actual power consumption (W1) in the comparison information storage unit 82 and outputs it to the comparison unit 73.

When the expected value calculation unit 95 acquires the time t3 at which the operation in the energy-saving operation mode starting from the start time t1 ends, it is expected that the operation is performed in the normal operation mode between the start time t1 and the time t3. Calculate the power consumption (W2) (expected power consumption). The calculation is based on the following formula (3);
Expected power consumption (W2)
= Wm1 × (t3-t1)
... (3)
It is done by. The time t3 may be acquired from the energy saving period specifying unit 91. The expected value calculation unit 95 writes the calculated estimated power consumption (W2) in the comparison information storage unit 82 and outputs it to the comparison unit 73. The calculated estimated power consumption (W2) for at least one week is stored in the comparative information storage unit 82.

The comparison unit 73 acquires the actual power consumption (W1) and the expected power consumption (W2), and calculates the energy saving result. In the comparison unit 73, the energy saving effect (unit:%) is defined below.
Energy saving performance (ER)
= (1-W1 / W2) x 100
Here, it can be determined that the calculated energy saving effect has an energy saving effect when ER> 0. The energy saving effect (ER) calculated by the comparison unit 73 is output to the output unit 74.

The output unit 74 notifies the user of the comparison result based on the information on the energy saving effect acquired from the comparison unit 73. Specifically, the output unit 74 generates information to be displayed on the display unit 54 (FIG. 4) of the mobile terminal 15. The output unit 74 creates a graph of the air conditioner operation history based on the information acquired from the history information storage unit 81, and puts an icon showing the energy saving effect on the graph. In addition, we will deliver notifications related to energy-saving driving. This will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 6 shows a display screen of the display unit 54 of the mobile terminal 15. The first screen Pic [1] is shown on the display unit 54 shown on the left side of FIG. On the first screen Pic [1], a graph G1 that graphs the measured values of temperature and humidity acquired from the sensor unit 34 described above over time and the power consumption of the air conditioner along with the passage of time are displayed. Is shown as a graph G2 which displays a graph. These graphs G1 and G2 are graphs generated by the output unit 74 based on the information acquired from the history information storage unit 81. Then, the first screen Pic [1] includes a'energy saving'tab T, and the display unit 54 is switched to the second screen Pic [2] from this tab T.

On the display unit 54 shown on the right side of FIG. 6, the energy saving report and the energy saving graph generated by the output unit 74 are displayed as the second screen Pic [2].

The energy saving report R in the second screen Pic [2] shown in FIG. 6 displays the number of energy saving operations, the energy saving operation time, the estimated energy saving effect, and the electricity saving cost. The number of times of energy-saving operation indicates the number of times of operation in the energy-saving operation mode for the past 6 days (within a predetermined period). The energy-saving operation time indicates the total time (cumulative) of operation in the energy-saving operation mode for the past 6 days. The number of energy-saving operations and the time are generated by the output unit 74 counting based on the information acquired from the history information storage unit 81. The estimated energy saving effect is the above-mentioned energy saving effect (ER). The electricity cost saving indicates how much the electricity cost can be saved by operating in the energy saving operation mode on the past 6 days as compared with the case of operating in the normal operation mode. For example, the output unit 74 obtains a difference between the predicted power consumption amount and the measured power consumption amount, and converts the difference into an electricity bill. The past period is not limited to 6 days, and may be shorter or longer than 6 days. For example, it may be half a day, three days, or one week or one month. Alternatively, for example, the period from May or this season may be used.

The energy-saving graph G-ER in the second screen Pic [2] shown in FIG. 6 is a graph showing the amount of power consumption per unit time along with the passage of time, and how much power consumption is consumed during the period of operation in the energy-saving operation mode. There is an icon indicating whether the amount has been reduced. The icons include a display I [1] that clearly indicates that the operation period is in the energy-saving operation mode, and a display I [2] that indicates the power consumption when operating in the normal operation mode by a broken line. .. However, it is not limited to these. Any display form may be used as long as it is possible to visualize to the user that there is an energy saving effect by operating in the energy saving operation mode as compared with the case of operating in the normal operation mode.

The output unit 74 generates and outputs information for generating an image in the above first screen Pic [1] and second screen Pic [2]. The output information is acquired by the mobile terminal 15 via the communication unit 63.

<Data structure>
(1) Operation record information FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of operation record information. When the content of the setting information acquired from the setting acquisition unit 41 is changed, the transmission control unit 43 of the air conditioner 11 generates the operation record information 200 indicating the operation record in the period immediately before the change. When the air conditioner 11 is operated by using the remote controller 12 or the mobile terminal 15, one operation record information 200 is generated.

As an example, the operation record information 200 includes each item of date / time, ID, duration, operation state, operation mode, set temperature, air volume, actual measurement temperature, actual measurement humidity, and integrated power consumption.

In the date and time item, the date and time when the operation control unit 45 changes the control content for the air conditioner main body 33 is stored.

In the ID item, an ID associated with the date and time when the above-mentioned control content is changed is stored. Here, the history information stored in the history information storage unit 81 of the cloud server 14 described above accumulates the operation record information 200 sequentially transmitted from the air conditioner 11. The ID is an identifier for easily distinguishing when (date and time) the operation record information 200 is in the accumulated state. That is, as an example, if three operation history informations have been sent to the cloud server 14 in the past, the ID item of the operation record information 200 generated next stores information indicating that the information is the fourth. To. Further, the ID item stores information for identifying the target air conditioner 11. The history information storage unit 81 of the cloud server 14 stores operation record information 200 acquired from a plurality of air conditioners. Therefore, the information for identifying which air conditioner operation record information 200 is stored is stored.

In the duration item, information indicating the time from the date and time when the above-mentioned control content is changed to immediately before the change of the control content is stored.

In the item of the operating state, information indicating what kind of driving was performed or not performed is stored.

In the operation mode item, information indicating the operation mode (whether the normal operation mode or the energy-saving operation mode) when the control content is changed is stored.

The set temperature item stores information indicating the set temperature when the control content is changed. For example, if the user performs an operation to raise the set temperature by 1 ° C at the date and time "2019/8/7 21:30" while the air conditioner 11 has been operating at the set temperature of 25 ° C so far, the transmission control unit 43 stores 26 ° C. in the item of set temperature.

The air volume item stores information indicating the air volume when the control content is changed.

In the item of measured temperature, the room temperature measured by the temperature sensor 34a when the control content is changed is stored.

In the item of measured humidity, the humidity of the room measured by the humidity sensor 34b when the control content is changed is stored.

In the item of integrated power consumption, the integrated power consumption of the air conditioner 11 measured by the power sensor 34c when the control content is changed is stored. For example, the power sensor 34c may detect the integrated power consumption in the time from the date and time when the above-mentioned control content is changed to immediately before the change of the control content. Alternatively, the power sensor 34c may detect the integrated power consumption up to immediately before the date and time when the above-mentioned control content is changed. Alternatively, the power sensor 34c may detect the integrated power consumption such as hourly or daily.

As another item that can be included in the operation record information, for example, there is a trigger. In the trigger item, information indicating the trigger for the operation control unit 45 to change the control content is stored. For example, when the control data to be processed is switched, or when the operation control unit 45 changes the control content of the air conditioner main body 33 based on the humidity threshold value, the "control data" is stored in the item. When the operation control unit 45 changes the control content of the air conditioner main body 33 based on the user operating the application related to the air conditioner 11 of the mobile terminal 15 or the user operating the remote controller 12, the "user operation" is performed. It is stored in the item.

Each time the control content is changed, the transmission control unit 43 generates the operation record information 200 as shown in FIG. 11 and transmits it to the cloud server 14. The cloud server 14 can grasp the details of the operation record of the air conditioner 11 based on the operation record information 200.

(2) History information FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of history information 300 stored in the history information storage unit 81 of the cloud server 14. The history information 300 is configured by accumulating the operation record information 200 sequentially acquired from the air conditioner 11.

<Flowchart>
(Control system processing)
FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of the energy saving effect calculation process (control method) in the control system 1 of the present embodiment.

The air conditioner 11 starts operation and operates in the normal operation mode (step T11). The operation in the normal operation mode may be specified by the user by the remote controller 12 of the air conditioner 11, or may be input and specified by the user by the mobile terminal 15.

On the other hand, the cloud server 14 acquires operation record information from the air conditioner 11 (step T21, acquisition process) and updates the air conditioner operation history (step T22, acquisition process). The update (addition) of the air conditioner operation history is continued until the operation of the air conditioner is completed.

Next, the air conditioner 11 switches the operation mode to the energy-saving operation mode (step T12). The designation of the operation mode may be specified by the user by inputting to the remote controller 12 of the air conditioner 11 or may be specified by inputting to the mobile terminal 15 as in the start.

When the air conditioner 11 starts the operation in the energy-saving operation mode (step T13, control step), the energy-saving operation control unit 70 controls the operation of the air conditioner 11 in the energy-saving operation mode in the cloud server 14. Further, the energy saving period specifying unit 91 acquires information on the operation start time t1 in the energy saving operation mode and the power consumption y1 (integrated value of the power consumption up to the start time t1) from the history information storage unit 81 ( Step T23).

In the cloud server 14, subsequently, the normal period specifying unit 92 acquires information from the history information storage unit 81 of the period (step T11) during which the air conditioner 11 is operating in the normal operation mode before switching to the energy-saving operation mode. (Step T24). In this step T24, the operation mode, the operation state, and the set temperature of all the operation histories within the range 90 minutes before the start time t1 of the operation in the energy-saving operation mode of the air conditioner 11 are acquired.

Subsequently, the cloud server 14 determines whether or not the calculation is possible using the information acquired in step T24 (step T25, calculation step). In this step T25, it is determined whether or not the normal period specifying unit 92 conforms to the first condition described above, and it is determined that the latter stage calculation is possible only when the first condition is satisfied. Then, the information of the start time t2 of the operation mode of the operation history satisfying this condition and the integrated value y2 (hereinafter, power consumption y2) of the power consumption up to the start time t2 is acquired, and the process proceeds to the next step T26. .. If it is determined that the first condition is not met, the calculation process of the energy saving effect by the cloud server 14 is terminated.

Further, as step T26, it is determined whether or not the acquired start time t2 and the power consumption y2 up to the start time t2 conform to the above-mentioned second condition (step T26, calculation step). If the second condition is met, the process proceeds to the next step T27. If it is determined that the second condition is not met, the calculation process of the energy saving effect by the cloud server 14 is terminated.

Subsequently, based on the information of the start time t2 of the normal operation mode satisfying the above two conditions and the power consumption amount y2, the pre-calculation unit 93 calculates the power consumption amount (wm1) per unit time described above (wm1). Step T27, calculation step). The pre-calculation unit 93 writes the calculated power consumption value (wm1) per unit time in the comparison information storage unit 82.

Around this time, the air conditioner 11 determines whether or not to end the energy-saving operation mode (step T14). In this step T14, the energy-saving operation mode may be terminated by a user's instruction, or may be configured to terminate once when a preset time has elapsed. The end of the operation in the energy-saving operation mode here may be a fake end, and the operation in the energy-saving operation mode may actually continue. In short, in order to present the energy saving efficiency to the user, the cloud server 14 must acquire the end time of the operation in the energy saving operation mode. Therefore, if the cloud server 14 can acquire the information on the end time, the air conditioner 11 may actually continue to operate in the energy-saving operation mode.

When the cloud server 14 receives the history of the end of the energy-saving operation mode of the air conditioner 11 (step T15), the actual measurement value calculation unit 94 acquires the information of the end time t3 of the operation in the energy-saving operation mode and the power consumption y3. (Step T28, calculation step). These information are acquired from the history information storage unit 81.

Subsequently, the actually measured value calculation unit 94 calculates the above-mentioned actual power consumption (W1) (step T29, calculation step).

On the other hand, the expected value calculation unit 95 also acquires the end time t3 of the operation in the energy-saving operation mode from the history information storage unit 81. Then, as described above, the predicted value calculation unit 95 expects the power consumption (W2) (expected power consumption) when the operation is performed in the normal operation mode between the start time t1 and the time t3. ) Is calculated (step T30, calculation step). The calculated estimated power consumption (W2) for at least one week is stored in the comparative information storage unit 82.

When the comparison unit 73 acquires the actual power consumption (W1) and the expected power consumption (W2) calculated as described above, the comparison unit 73 calculates the energy saving result. As described above, the comparison unit 73 calculates the energy saving effect (unit:%) (step T31, comparison step). The calculated energy saving effect is output to the output unit 74.

Based on the information on the energy saving effect acquired from the comparison unit 73, the output unit 74 creates information for notifying the user of the comparison result as described above (step T32, output step). The created information is transmitted to the mobile terminal 15.

The mobile terminal 15 receives the information output from the output unit 74 of the cloud server 14 (step T41) and displays it on the display screen of the display unit (step T42).

According to the system controlled by the above sequence, the expected power consumption based on the actually measured operation history in the normal operation mode is compared with the power consumption based on the actually measured operation history in the energy-saving operation mode. As a result, the user can obtain an energy saving effect suitable for the indoor environment of the user's home. Further, by displaying the number of energy-saving operations, the energy-saving operation time, and the electricity bill on the screen of the mobile terminal 15, the user can clearly recognize the energy-saving effect, and the merit of the energy-saving operation performed under the control of the server. Can be recognized in an easy-to-understand manner. As a result, users can be motivated to utilize energy-saving driving.

[Embodiment 2]
Other embodiments of the present invention will be described below. For convenience of explanation, the members having the same functions as the members described in the above-described embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

The difference between this embodiment and the above-described first embodiment lies in the configuration of the cloud server.

The energy saving effect calculation process of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 9 includes a step T25 for determining whether or not the first condition is met and a step T26 for determining whether or not the second condition is met in the cloud server 14. If it is determined that the conditions are not met in these steps, the calculation process of the energy saving effect by the cloud server 14 is terminated. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the calculation process is not completed. Specifically, in the present embodiment, the information of the operation history that meets these conditions is searched from the information of the operation history at another time point in the past, not from immediately before the start of the operation in the energy-saving operation mode. Then, based on a similar operation history immediately before the said operation, the processes after step T27 of the first embodiment are performed. This will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing a flow of energy saving effect calculation processing in the control system 1 of the present embodiment. Note that FIG. 10 corresponds to FIG. 9 of the above-described first embodiment, but for convenience of explanation, only the sequence of the cloud server 14'is shown.

Steps T21 to T25 shown in FIG. 10 are the same as steps T21 to T25 in FIG. 9 of the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof will be omitted.

In the determination process of step T25, when there is no operation history that meets the first condition in all the operation histories within the range 90 minutes before the start time t1 of the operation in the energy-saving operation mode of the air conditioner 11, in the present embodiment , Step T251.

In step T251, the operation history at another time point in the past is acquired, not from immediately before the operation start time t1 in the energy-saving operation mode. At this time, the operation history under the same conditions as immediately before the operation start time t1 in the energy-saving operation mode is searched and acquired. Similar conditions include the same climate, the same day of the week, and the same time zone. These conditions may be stored in the history information storage unit 81 together with the operation history, or may be stored by providing a separate storage unit as long as they are associated with the operation history.

Then, when a similar operation history is acquired in step T251, the determination in step T25 is performed again, and this process is repeated until the first condition is satisfied.

Also in step T26, it is determined whether or not the information of the start time t2 of the operation mode in the operation history of step T25 and the power consumption y2 up to the start time t2 conforms to the second condition. The second condition is the same as the second condition of the first embodiment, that is, whether or not the above-mentioned t1 and the acquired t2 have a relationship of (t1-t2)> 10 minutes. If the second condition is cleared, the process proceeds to the process after step T27 as in the first embodiment. However, if the second condition is not cleared, the process returns to step T251 and again in step T251. Then, step T25 is performed. In the present embodiment, this is repeated until the second condition is cleared in step T26.

The normal period specifying unit 92 outputs information on the start time t2 of the normal operation mode satisfying the above two conditions and the power consumption amount y2 to the pre-calculation unit 93. Since the processing after step T27 is the same as that described in the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the possibility that the energy saving effect calculation process is stopped in the middle is reduced, and the presentation of the energy saving effect is not delayed.

[Example of realization by software]
The control blocks (particularly the control unit 31, the control unit 51 and the control unit 61) of the air conditioner 11, the cloud server 14 and the mobile terminal 15 are realized by logic circuits (hardware) formed in an integrated circuit (IC chip) or the like. May be good. Alternatively, the control block may be realized by software.

In the latter case, the air conditioner 11, the cloud server 14, and the mobile terminal 15 include a computer that executes instructions of a control program that is software that realizes each function. The computer includes, for example, at least one processor (control device) and at least one computer-readable recording medium that stores the program. Then, in the computer, the object of the present invention is achieved by the processor reading the program from the recording medium and executing the program. As the processor, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) can be used. As the recording medium, a "non-temporary tangible medium", for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory) or the like, a tape, a disk, a card, a semiconductor memory, a programmable logic circuit, or the like can be used. Further, a RAM (Random Access Memory) for expanding the program may be further provided. Further, the program may be supplied to the computer via an arbitrary transmission medium (communication network, broadcast wave, etc.) capable of transmitting the program. It should be noted that one aspect of the present invention can also be realized in the form of a data signal embedded in a carrier wave, in which the program is embodied by electronic transmission.

[Summary]
The server according to the first aspect of the present invention is an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) that performs either normal operation or energy-saving operation, and a server (cloud server 14) that communicates via a communication network. Using the acquisition unit 71 that acquires the operation record information including the power consumption information of the air conditioner (air conditioner 11) and the power consumption information of the air conditioner (air conditioner 11) when the normal operation is performed, the power consumption information of the air conditioner (air conditioner 11) is used. The calculation unit 72 that calculates the expected power consumption (W2) of the air conditioner (air conditioner 11) by the normal operation at the same time as the energy-saving operation time in which the energy-saving operation is performed, and the air harmonization of the energy-saving operation time. A comparison unit 73 for comparing the measured power consumption (W1) of the machine (air conditioner 11) with the expected power consumption, and an output unit 74 for outputting the comparison result by the comparison unit 73 are provided.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to provide a server that enables accurate prediction of power consumption.

The power consumption of an air conditioner (so-called air conditioner) is affected by the region, season, climate, room insulation characteristics, etc., so it is simply accurate based on a predetermined formula for the set temperature and time. It is not something that can be put out. On the other hand, according to the server of one aspect of the present invention, the time during which the operation by the energy-saving operation is performed based on the operation record information including the power consumption information which is the past record of the operation by the normal operation (energy-saving operation time). Predict the power consumption of the air conditioner in normal operation assuming that normal operation was performed in the same time as. The operation record information, which is the past record of normal operation, reflects the influence of the installation environment of the air conditioner. Therefore, by predicting the power consumption based on this, the power consumption can be predicted accurately.

In the first aspect of the server according to the second aspect of the present invention, the calculation unit 72 performs the operation within a predetermined first time (for example, within a range of 90 minutes) before the start (for example, immediately before) of the energy-saving operation time. From the operation record information of the air conditioner when the normal operation is performed, the power consumption information included in the operation record information having the same operation mode, operation state, and set temperature is used to make the prediction. Calculate the power consumption.

According to the above configuration, the power consumption is predicted by using the operation record information of the air conditioner in the normal operation under the same conditions, so that the prediction can be made accurately.

In the server according to the third aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect, the calculation unit 72 performs the operation within a predetermined first time (for example, within a range of 90 minutes) before the start (for example, immediately before) of the energy saving operation time. When the operation time by the normal operation (time t1-t2 described above) is longer than the predetermined second time (for example, 10 minutes), the operation record of the operation time (time t1-t2 described above). The estimated power consumption is calculated using the power consumption information included in the information, and when the operating time (time t1-t2 described above) is equal to or less than the second time (for example, 10 minutes), the forecast is made. The operation of the normal operation under conditions similar to those before the start of the energy-saving operation time (for example, immediately before) before the start of the energy-saving operation time (for example, within the range of 90 minutes) without calculating the power consumption. The expected power consumption is calculated using the power consumption information included in the actual information.

According to the above configuration, the power consumption is predicted by using the operation division method of the air conditioner in the normal operation during stable operation, so that the prediction can be made accurately.

In the server according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in the first to third aspects, the output unit 74 counts the number of times the energy-saving operation is performed within a predetermined period and presents the number of times.

According to the above configuration, by presenting the number of operations, it is possible for the user to easily confirm the operation results by the energy-saving operation and to create an environment in which the energy-saving operation is easily recommended.

In the server according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, in the first to fourth aspects, the output unit 74 measures and presents an integrated value of the time during which the energy-saving operation is performed within a predetermined period.

According to the above configuration, by presenting the operation time, it is possible for the user to easily confirm the operation results by the energy-saving operation and to create an environment in which the energy-saving operation is easily recommended.

In the server according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, in the first to fifth aspects, the comparison unit 73 calculates the difference between the measured power consumption amount and the expected power consumption amount.

In the server according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, in the sixth aspect, the output unit 74 presents a graph that visualizes the difference.

According to the above configuration, by presenting the graph, it is possible for the user to easily confirm the operation results by the energy-saving operation and to create an environment in which the energy-saving operation is easily recommended.

The control program according to the eighth aspect of the present invention is a control program for operating the computer as a server in the above-described first to seventh aspects, and is a control program for operating the computer as each part.

According to the above configuration, the same effect as that of the above-mentioned server can be obtained.

The control system according to aspect 9 of the present invention includes a user's mobile terminal 15, an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) that performs either normal operation or energy-saving operation, and the mobile terminal 15 and the mobile terminal 15 via a communication network. A control system 1 including a server (cloud server 14) that communicates with the air conditioner (air conditioner 11), and acquires operation record information including power consumption information of the air conditioner (air conditioner 11). Using the power consumption information of the acquisition unit 71 and the air conditioner (air conditioner 11) when the normal operation is performed, the above-mentioned normal operation for the same time as the energy-saving operation time when the energy-saving operation is performed. The calculation unit 72 that calculates the expected power consumption (W2) of the air conditioner (air conditioner 11), the measured power consumption (W1) of the air conditioner (air conditioner 11) during the energy-saving operation time, and the estimated power consumption. A comparison unit 73 for comparing the amount (W2) and an output unit 74 for outputting the comparison result by the comparison unit 73 are provided.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to provide a server that enables accurate prediction of power consumption.

The power consumption of an air conditioner (so-called air conditioner) is affected by the region, season, climate, room insulation characteristics, etc., so it is simply accurate based on a predetermined formula for the set temperature and time. It is not something that can be put out. On the other hand, according to the server of one aspect of the present invention, the time during which the operation by the energy-saving operation is performed based on the operation record information including the power consumption information which is the past record of the operation by the normal operation (energy-saving operation time). Predict the power consumption of the air conditioner in normal operation assuming that normal operation was performed in the same time as. The operation record information, which is the past record of normal operation, reflects the influence of the installation environment of the air conditioner. Therefore, by predicting the power consumption based on this, the power consumption can be predicted accurately.

The method of controlling the server according to the tenth aspect of the present invention is to control a server (cloud server 14) that communicates with an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) that performs either normal operation or energy-saving operation via a communication network. The method is an acquisition step of acquiring operation record information including power consumption information of the air conditioner (air conditioner 11), and the power consumption of the air conditioner (air conditioner 11) when the normal operation is performed. Using the information, a calculation process for calculating the expected power consumption (W2) of the air conditioner (air conditioner 11) by the normal operation at the same time as the energy-saving operation time in which the energy-saving operation was performed, and the energy-saving operation time. A comparison step of comparing the measured power consumption (W1) of the air conditioner (air conditioner 11) with the expected power consumption (W2), and an output step of outputting the comparison result obtained by the comparison step. including.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to provide a server that enables accurate prediction of power consumption.

The power consumption of an air conditioner (so-called air conditioner) is affected by the region, season, climate, room insulation characteristics, etc., so it is simply accurate based on a predetermined formula for the set temperature and time. It is not something that can be put out. On the other hand, according to the server of one aspect of the present invention, the time during which the operation by the energy-saving operation is performed based on the operation record information including the power consumption information which is the past record of the operation by the normal operation (energy-saving operation time). Predict the power consumption of the air conditioner in normal operation assuming that normal operation was performed in the same time as. The operation record information, which is the past record of normal operation, reflects the influence of the installation environment of the air conditioner. Therefore, by predicting the power consumption based on this, the power consumption can be predicted accurately.

The control method of the control system according to the eleventh aspect of the present invention is the mobile terminal 15 of the user, an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) that performs either normal operation or energy-saving operation, and the portable device via a communication network. A control method for a control system 1 including a terminal 15 and a server (cloud server 14) that communicates with the air conditioner (air conditioner 11), and includes power consumption information of the air conditioner (air conditioner 11). Using the acquisition process for acquiring operation record information and the power consumption information of the air conditioner (air conditioner 11) when the normal operation is performed, the time is the same as the energy-saving operation time when the energy-saving operation is performed. A calculation step for calculating the expected power consumption (W2) of the air conditioner (air conditioner 11) during the normal operation, and an actually measured power consumption (W1) of the air conditioner (air conditioner 11) during the energy-saving operation time. It includes a comparison step of comparing the expected power consumption (W2) and an output step of outputting the comparison result obtained by the comparison step.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to provide a server that enables accurate prediction of power consumption.

The power consumption of an air conditioner (so-called air conditioner) is affected by the region, season, climate, room insulation characteristics, etc., so it is simply accurate based on a predetermined formula for the set temperature and time. It is not something that can be put out. On the other hand, according to the server of one aspect of the present invention, the time during which the operation by the energy-saving operation is performed based on the operation record information including the power consumption information which is the past record of the operation by the normal operation (energy-saving operation time). Predict the power consumption of the air conditioner in normal operation assuming that normal operation was performed in the same time as. The operation record information, which is the past record of normal operation, reflects the influence of the installation environment of the air conditioner. Therefore, by predicting the power consumption based on this, the power consumption can be predicted accurately.

A computer-readable recording medium on which the control program according to the eighth aspect of the present invention is recorded also falls within the scope of the present invention.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims, and the embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in the different embodiments. Is also included in the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, new technical features can be formed by combining the technical means disclosed in each embodiment.

1 Control system 11 Air conditioner 12 Remote control 14 Cloud server 15 Mobile terminal 21 User's home 22 Wide area communication network (communication network)
31, 51, 61 Control unit 32, 52, 62 Storage unit 34 Sensor unit 34c Power sensor 35, 53, 63 Communication unit 41 Setting acquisition unit 42 Sensor information acquisition unit 43 Transmission control unit 45 Operation control unit 54 Display unit 70 Energy saving operation Control unit 71 Acquisition unit 72 Calculation unit 73 Comparison unit 74 Output unit 81 History information storage unit 82 Comparison information storage unit 91 Energy saving period identification unit (calculation unit)
92 Normal period specific part (calculation part)
93 Pre-calculation unit (calculation unit)
94 Measured value calculation unit (calculation unit)
95 Expected value calculation unit (calculation unit)
200 Driving record information 300 History information

Claims (11)

A server that communicates with an air conditioner that performs either normal operation or energy-saving operation via a communication network.
An acquisition unit that acquires operation record information including power consumption information of the air conditioner, and an acquisition unit.
Using the power consumption information of the air conditioner when the normal operation is performed, the expected power consumption of the air conditioner by the normal operation at the same time as the energy-saving operation time when the energy-saving operation is performed can be obtained. Calculation unit to calculate and
A comparison unit that compares the measured power consumption of the air conditioner with the expected power consumption of the energy-saving operation time, and
A server including an output unit that outputs a comparison result by the comparison unit. From the operation record information of the air conditioner when the normal operation performed within a predetermined first time before the start of the energy-saving operation time is performed, the calculation unit determines the operation mode, the operation state, and the operation state. The server according to claim 1, wherein the expected power consumption is calculated by using the power consumption information included in the operation record information having the same set temperature. When the operation time of the normal operation performed within the predetermined first time before the start of the energy-saving operation time is longer than the predetermined second time, the calculation unit may perform the operation of the operation time. The expected power consumption is calculated using the power consumption information included in the actual information, and when the operating time is equal to or less than the second time, the expected power consumption is not calculated or the first 1. The expected power consumption is calculated by using the power consumption information included in the operation record information of the normal operation under the same conditions as before the start of the energy-saving operation time in the past than within the time. The server described in. The server according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the output unit counts the number of times the energy-saving operation is performed within a predetermined period and outputs the number of times. The server according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the output unit measures an integrated value of the time during which the energy-saving operation is performed within a predetermined period and outputs the integrated value. The server according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the comparison unit calculates a difference between the actually measured power consumption and the expected power consumption. The server according to claim 6, wherein the output unit outputs a graph that visualizes the difference. A control program for operating a computer as a server according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the computer functions as each of the above parts. A control system including a user's mobile terminal, an air conditioner that performs either normal operation or energy-saving operation, and a server that communicates with the mobile terminal and the air conditioner via a communication network. hand,
An acquisition unit that acquires operation record information including power consumption information of the air conditioner, and an acquisition unit.
Using the power consumption information of the air conditioner when the normal operation is performed, the expected power consumption of the air conditioner by the normal operation at the same time as the energy-saving operation time when the energy-saving operation is performed can be obtained. Calculation unit to calculate and
A comparison unit that compares the measured power consumption of the air conditioner with the expected power consumption of the energy-saving operation time, and
A control system including an output unit that outputs a comparison result by the comparison unit. It is a control method of a server that communicates with an air conditioner that performs either normal operation or energy-saving operation via a communication network.
An acquisition process for acquiring operation record information including power consumption information of the air conditioner, and
Using the power consumption information of the air conditioner when the normal operation is performed, the expected power consumption of the air conditioner by the normal operation at the same time as the energy-saving operation time when the energy-saving operation is performed can be obtained. Calculation process to calculate and
A comparison step of comparing the measured power consumption of the air conditioner with the expected power consumption of the energy-saving operation time, and
A server control method including an output step of outputting a comparison result obtained by the comparison step. A control system including a user's mobile terminal, an air conditioner that performs either normal operation or energy-saving operation, and a server that communicates with the mobile terminal and the air conditioner via a communication network. It ’s a control method,
An acquisition process for acquiring operation record information including power consumption information of the air conditioner, and
Using the power consumption information of the air conditioner when the normal operation is performed, the expected power consumption of the air conditioner by the normal operation at the same time as the energy-saving operation time when the energy-saving operation is performed can be obtained. Calculation process to calculate and
A comparison step of comparing the measured power consumption of the air conditioner with the expected power consumption of the energy-saving operation time, and
A control method of a control system including an output step of outputting a comparison result obtained by the comparison step.

Images