JP2021165603A - Air-conditioning controller - Google Patents

Abstract

To suitably make compatible both the reduction of power consumption of an air conditioner and improvement of usability.SOLUTION: An air-conditioning controller comprises a display which can image-display information on air-conditioning with electronic paper as a display medium, and a CPU for performing the display control of the display. As a display control mode for rewriting an image displayed in the display, there are arranged a first display control mode and a second display control mode in which duration necessary for rewriting the image is longer than that in the first display control mode while the image before the rewriting hardly remains as an afterimage. When a prescribed operation such as a menu switching operation is performed by a user, the CPU performs processing for rewriting the image being displayed in the display to another image by the first display control mode, and when a prescribed automatic rewriting condition such as an automatic restoration condition to a main menu is established, the CPU performs processing for rewriting the image being displayed in the display to another image by the second display control mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

The present invention relates to an air conditioning controller.

Some air conditioners include an air conditioner that allows the user to change the set temperature, and an air conditioner that performs air conditioning based on instructions from the air conditioner controller. In this type of air conditioner, the air conditioner controller has information on air conditioning, such as control information such as operation mode (cooling, heating, dehumidification, ventilation), adjustment parameters for air conditioning (set temperature, set air volume), and room temperature and humidity. In many cases, a display unit for displaying environmental information such as the above is provided (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP-A-2010-159922

Here, for example, the configuration in which the above-mentioned various information is maintained while being displayed even during the operation waiting period (standby) of the air conditioning controller improves the convenience of the user when checking the air conditioning status and the like. Is advantageous. However, if the convenience of the user is improved by continuing to display the information even during standby as described above, the power consumption of the air conditioner tends to increase, which hinders the realization of energy saving of the air conditioner, for example. Is expected to be. As described above, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of the air conditioner controller in order to achieve both reduction of power consumption and improvement of convenience in the air conditioner.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and a main object thereof is to preferably achieve both reduction of power consumption and improvement of convenience in an air conditioner.

Hereinafter, means for solving the above problems will be described.

Means 1. An air conditioning controller (air conditioning controller 12) capable of controlling an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) based on a user's operation.
A display unit (display 53) capable of displaying information on air conditioning using electronic paper as a display medium, and
A display control unit (CPU51) that controls the display of the display unit is provided.
As an image rewriting mode in which the image of the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit, a first rewriting mode (first display control mode) and an image before rewriting from the first rewriting mode remain as an afterimage. A difficult second rewrite mode (second display control mode) is provided.
The display control unit
An operation determination means (a function of executing processes such as steps S202 and S403 in the CPU 51) for determining whether or not a predetermined operation (for example, menu switching operation, temperature adjustment operation, air volume adjustment operation) has been performed by the user, and
When the operation determining means determines that the predetermined operation has been performed, the first rewriting means (CPU 51) that rewrites the image displayed on the display unit with another image in the first rewriting mode. (Function to execute processing such as steps S203, S207, S404, S406) and
Automatic rewriting condition determining means (in the CPU 51, steps S208, S303, S309, etc.) for determining whether or not a predetermined automatic rewriting condition (for example, automatic return condition to the main menu, room temperature change, air volume change) is satisfied. Function to execute) and
When it is determined by the automatic rewriting condition determining means that the predetermined automatic rewriting condition is satisfied, the image displayed on the display unit is rewritten to another image in the second rewriting mode. An air-conditioning controller having two rewriting means (a function of executing processes such as steps S209, S211, S304, S306, S310, and S312 in the CPU 51).

The operation of the air conditioner is often continued under the conditions set at the start of operation, and the period during which the air conditioner controller is operated is extremely short as compared with the period of waiting for operation. Therefore, if the display unit of the air conditioning controller is configured by electronic paper as described above, a certain amount of electric power is required to rewrite the image due to the operation, but the information on the air conditioning is maintained while being displayed. Power consumption can be extremely reduced. For example, as compared with the case where the display unit is composed of a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, a plasma display, or the like, it is possible to preferably suppress an increase in power consumption due to an improvement in convenience.

The function of providing information to the user is to rewrite various information (images) displayed on the display unit not only by the user's operation but also by changing the control state (air volume) and environment (room temperature and humidity). It is preferable to exert it favorably. Here, according to the configuration shown in the above means 1, as the image rewriting mode, the first rewriting mode that emphasizes the rewriting speed and the second rewriting mode that emphasizes the appearance are properly used depending on the rewriting opportunity. Specifically, when a predetermined operation is performed by the user, the image is rewritten in the first rewriting mode, and when a predetermined automatic rewriting condition such as a change in room temperature or air volume is satisfied. The image is rewritten in the second rewrite mode. When the air conditioning controller is operated by the user, the image can be rewritten quickly so that the waiting time for operation can be shortened, and when the predetermined automatic rewriting conditions are satisfied, the image takes a certain amount of time. It is possible to preferably improve the convenience of the user by preparing for the later information confirmation → operation as a configuration for neatly rewriting.

It is also preferable in the following points to suppress the increase in power consumption caused by the improvement of convenience. In other words, even if the convenience is further improved by making the air-conditioning controller portable with a built-in power supply, it is possible to avoid increasing the frequency of battery replacement and charging of the air-conditioning controller, and improve the convenience. It can be more preferably exerted.

Means 2. In the second rewrite mode, the image displayed on the display unit is rewritten to the next image after undergoing a predetermined refresh display (reverse display, full bright display, full dark display) for removing afterimages. Is a mode
The air conditioning controller according to means 1, wherein the first rewriting mode is an image rewriting mode in which an image displayed on the display unit is rewritten to the next image without going through the predetermined refresh display.

As shown in the second means, in the display control in the second rewrite mode, a predetermined refresh display for removing the afterimage is incorporated to suppress the deterioration of the discriminating power of the information due to the afterimage, and in the display control in the first rewrite mode. If the configuration is such that the decrease in responsiveness is suppressed by omitting the predetermined refresh display and promptly rewriting the image, the effect shown in the above means 1 can be suitably exhibited.

The configuration shown in the present means 2 is described as "The first rewriting mode is an image rewriting mode in which the image displayed on the display unit is directly rewritten to the target image, and the second rewriting mode is the above. It is also possible to use the air conditioning controller according to means 1, which is an image rewriting mode in which the image displayed on the display unit is rewritten to the target image via rewriting to the refreshing image. "

Means 3. The predetermined refresh display is a reverse display that reverses the print pattern (for example, black and white) of the image displayed on the display unit, and an erase display (full brightness display or all) that erases the image displayed on the display unit. The air conditioning controller according to means 2, which includes at least one of (black and white display).

When the display unit of the air-conditioning controller is configured by electronic paper, as shown in the present means 3, the afterimage is configured to reverse the print pattern (brightness / dark pattern) or erase the image as a predetermined refresh display. Can be suitably reduced.

Means 4. The automatic rewriting condition determination means is used for a predetermined time without any operation by the user in a situation where an image other than a preset standby image (image for the main menu) is displayed on the display unit. When (for example, the first reference time) has elapsed, it is determined that the first automatic rewriting condition (return condition to the main menu), which is the predetermined automatic rewriting condition, is satisfied.
When the automatic rewriting condition determining means determines that the first automatic rewriting condition is satisfied, the second rewriting means puts the image displayed on the display unit into the second rewriting mode. The air conditioning controller according to any one of means 1 to 3 having means for rewriting the predetermined standby image.

According to the above configuration, when the user leaves the air conditioning controller unattended after the operation is completed, the air conditioning controller is automatically rewritten to a predetermined standby image in preparation for the next operation. At this time, by preparing for the later information confirmation → operation as a configuration in which the image is rewritten in the second rewriting mode in which the appearance is emphasized, it is possible to suitably contribute to the improvement of the user's satisfaction.

Means 5. Equipped with an environmental information acquisition means (temperature / humidity sensor 57) that acquires environmental information (for example, temperature and humidity) that correlates with the indoor environment.
The automatic rewriting condition determining means is a second automatic rewriting condition (change in temperature or humidity that triggers image rewriting), which is the predetermined automatic rewriting condition when a predetermined change occurs in the indoor environment. Is configured to determine that
The second rewriting means corresponds to the current indoor environment with the image displayed on the display unit when the automatic rewriting condition determining means determines that the second automatic rewriting condition is satisfied. The air conditioning controller according to any one of means 1 to means 4, which has means for rewriting the image in the second rewriting mode.

It is preferable to display the environmental information (room temperature and humidity) that serves as a guide when the user performs the air conditioning operation on the air conditioning controller in order to improve the user's satisfaction. The indoor environment can change over time, but many of these events are expected to occur when the user is not paying close attention to the air conditioning controller. Therefore, when the above event occurs, the user's satisfaction can be suitably improved by performing rewriting in the second rewriting mode that emphasizes the appearance and preparing for the air conditioning operation by the user.

Means 6. Equipped with an environmental information acquisition means (temperature / humidity sensor 57) that acquires environmental information (for example, temperature and humidity) that correlates with the indoor environment.
The first rewriting means is displayed on the display unit when the driving parameter (parameter for adjusting the air volume) of the air conditioner is changed based on the user's operation (operation to change the set temperature). It has a means for rewriting an image having a correlation with the driving parameter before the change to an image having a correlation with the driving parameter after the change in the first rewriting mode.
The second rewriting means is an image displayed on the display unit when the driving parameter changed based on the operation is changed based on the environmental information acquired by the environmental information acquisition means. Any one of means 1 to 5 having means for rewriting an image having a correlation with the driving parameter before the change to an image corresponding to the driving parameter after the change in the second rewriting mode. The air conditioning controller described in one.

According to the configuration shown in the present means 6, when the driving parameters are changed based on the user's operation, the image correlating with the driving parameters displayed on the display unit is the first rewriting with emphasis on speed. Rewritten in mode. In this way, the user's satisfaction can be improved by increasing the responsiveness of image rewriting during operation. The indoor environment can change over time, but many of these events are expected to occur when the user is not paying close attention to the air conditioning controller. Therefore, when the above event occurs, the user's satisfaction can be suitably improved by performing rewriting in the second rewriting mode that emphasizes the appearance and preparing for the air conditioning operation by the user.

Regarding the means 5 and means 6, the rewrite mode is used when the indoor environment changes from the operation by the user until a specific period elapses, and when the indoor environment changes after the specific period elapses. It is also possible to make the configuration different. For example, in the former case, responsiveness may be emphasized by rewriting in the first rewriting mode, and in the latter case, appearance may be emphasized by rewriting in the second rewriting mode.

Means 7. When the predetermined operation is performed at the timing when the predetermined automatic rewriting condition is satisfied, the image is rewritten by the first rewriting means based on the predetermined operation (in the first rewriting mode). The air conditioning controller according to any one of means 1 to 6 configured so that rewriting) is prioritized.

When a predetermined automatic rewriting condition is satisfied and a predetermined operation overlaps, the latter is prioritized and the operation → image rewriting is performed promptly, so that the automatic rewriting function reduces the responsiveness at the time of operation. Can be preferably avoided.

Means 8. After rewriting the image by the first rewriting means, any one of means 1 to 7 having a regulating means for restricting the rewriting of the image by the second rewriting means until a predetermined regulation period elapses. The air conditioning controller described in one.

Regarding the operation of the air conditioning controller, a plurality of operations may be continuously executed until the setting is completed. Therefore, as shown in the present means 8, after the image is rewritten by the first rewriting means, the rewriting of the image by the second rewriting means is temporarily restricted, which is related to the intention of the user. It is possible to prevent the second rewrite mode, which has a long waiting time, from interrupting.

In addition, "if the predetermined automatic rewriting condition is satisfied while being regulated by the regulating means, the rewriting by the second rewriting means is delayed until the predetermined regulation period elapses. It is also possible to use the air-conditioning controller according to the constitutional means 8. ”.

Means 9. The predetermined operation includes a first operation (for example, a temperature adjustment operation) which is an operation for adjusting parameters for air conditioning control and a second operation (for example, a menu switching operation) which is an operation menu switching operation.
If the first operation is performed during the rewriting of the image in the second rewriting mode, the rewriting of the image in the second rewriting mode is stopped and the image corresponding to the first operation is displayed. The image is rewritten in the first rewriting mode, while the second operation is performed during the rewriting of the image in the second rewriting mode, the second rewriting mode is used. Any one of means 1 to 8 configured to stop rewriting the image and display the image corresponding to the second operation to rewrite the image in the second rewriting mode. The air conditioning controller described in one.

Compared with the first operation, which is the parameter adjustment operation, it is expected that the difference between the images before and after the rewriting will be remarkable for the second operation, which is the operation menu switching operation. Therefore, if the first operation is performed while the image is being rewritten in the second rewrite mode, a new image is promptly displayed in the first rewrite mode, and the image is rewritten in the second rewrite mode. When the second operation is performed during the operation, a practically preferable configuration can be realized by displaying an image in which the influence of the afterimage is suppressed in the second rewrite mode.

Means 10. The image displayed on the display unit includes an operation icon to be operated by the user.
As an image rewriting mode in the display unit, a first mode in which the operation icon is displayed at the same position on the display unit before and after rewriting (for example, when the UP icon 83 and the DOWN icon 84 are operated on the temperature setting screen). (Rewriting mode) and the second mode in which the arrangement of the operation icons on the display unit changes before and after the rewriting (for example, the rewriting mode when the operation switching icon 75, the temperature setting icon 77, etc. are operated in the main menu). ) And are provided,
The display control unit
When the image rewriting mode in the display unit is the first mode, the means for rewriting the image in the first rewriting mode and
One of means 1 to means 9 having a means for rewriting an image in the second rewriting mode when the image rewriting mode in the display unit is the second mode. The described air conditioning controller.

Various information (images) displayed on the display unit will be rewritten based on the user's operation. Here, according to the configuration shown in the present means 10, if the arrangement of the operation icons does not change before and after the rewriting, the image is quickly rewritten in the first rewriting mode to reduce the time waiting for the operation. Can be shortened. On the other hand, if the arrangement of the operation icons changes before and after the rewrite, the operation icons may become difficult to understand due to the influence of the afterimage by rewriting the image neatly over a certain period of time in the second rewrite mode. Can be suppressed. Thereby, the convenience of the user can be suitably improved.

Means 11. An air conditioning controller (air conditioning controller 12) capable of controlling an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) based on a user's operation.
A display unit (display 53) capable of displaying information on air conditioning using electronic paper as a display medium, and
A display control unit (CPU51) that controls the display of the display unit is provided.
As an image rewriting mode in which the image of the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit, the first rewriting mode (first display control mode) and the time required for rewriting the image are longer than those in the first rewriting mode. On the other hand, there is a second rewrite mode (second display control mode) in which the image before rewriting is less likely to remain as an afterimage.
The image displayed on the display unit includes operation icons (for example, operation switching icon 75, temperature setting icon 77, UP icon 83, DOWN icon 84, etc.) to be operated by the user.
As a mode of rewriting the image in the display unit, a first mode in which the arrangement of the operation icons on the display unit does not change before and after the rewriting (for example, when the UP icon 83 and the DOWN icon 84 are operated on the temperature setting screen). The rewriting mode) and the second mode in which the arrangement of the operation icons on the display unit changes before and after the rewriting (for example, the rewriting mode when the operation switching icon 75, the temperature setting icon 77, etc. are operated in the main menu). Is provided,
The display control unit
When the image rewriting mode in the display unit is the first mode, the means for rewriting the image in the first rewriting mode and
An air conditioning controller having a means for rewriting an image in the second rewriting mode when the image rewriting mode in the display unit is the second mode.

The operation of the air conditioner is often continued under the conditions set at the start of operation, and the period during which the air conditioner controller is operated is extremely short as compared with the period of waiting for operation. Therefore, if the display unit of the air conditioning controller is configured by electronic paper as described above, a certain amount of electric power is required to rewrite the image due to the operation, but the information on the air conditioning is maintained while being displayed. Power consumption can be extremely reduced. For example, as compared with the case where the display unit is composed of a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, a plasma display, or the like, the influence of the improvement in convenience (increase in power consumption) can be suitably suppressed.

Various information (images) displayed on the display unit will be rewritten based on the user's operation. Here, according to the configuration shown in the present means 11, if the arrangement of the operation icons does not change before and after the rewriting, the image is quickly rewritten in the first rewriting mode to reduce the time waiting for the operation. Can be shortened. On the other hand, if the arrangement of the operation icons changes before and after the rewrite, the operation icons may become difficult to understand due to the influence of the afterimage by rewriting the image neatly over a certain period of time in the second rewrite mode. Can be suppressed. Thereby, the convenience of the user can be suitably improved.

Means 12. An air conditioning controller (air conditioning controller 12) capable of controlling an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) based on a user's operation.
A display unit (display 53) capable of displaying information on the air conditioner using electronic paper as a display medium, and
A display control unit (CPU51) that controls the display of the display unit is provided.
As a rewriting mode for rewriting the image of the display unit by the display control unit, the time required for rewriting the image is longer than that of the first rewriting mode (first display control mode) and the first rewriting mode. On the other hand, a second rewrite mode (second display control mode) is provided in which the image before rewriting is less likely to cause an afterimage.
The display control unit
A rewriting means (a function of executing the processing of steps S203, S208, S212, S214, etc. in the CPU 51) for rewriting the image of the display unit from the first image (for example, the operation menu) to the second image (for example, the main menu), and
An operation determination means (a function of executing the process of step S203 in the CPU 51) for determining whether or not a predetermined operation (for example, the operation of the home icon 96) has been performed by the user, and
It has a condition determining means (a function of executing the process of step S211 in the CPU 51) for determining whether or not a predetermined automatic rewriting condition (for example, an automatic return condition to the main menu) is satisfied.
The rewriting means is displayed on the display unit when it is determined by the operation determination means that the predetermined operation has been performed in a situation where the first image is displayed on the display unit. While the image is rewritten from the first image to the second image in the first rewriting mode, the predetermined automatic operation is performed by the condition determination means in a situation where the first image is displayed on the display unit. When it is determined that the rewriting condition is satisfied, the image displayed on the display unit is configured to be rewritten from the first image to the second image in the second rewriting mode. Air conditioning controller.

The function of providing information to the user is to rewrite various information (images) displayed on the display unit not only by the user's operation but also by changing the control state (air volume) and environment (room temperature and humidity). It is preferable to exert it favorably. Here, according to the configuration shown in the above means 12, as the image rewriting mode, the first rewriting mode that emphasizes the rewriting speed and the second rewriting mode that emphasizes the appearance are properly used depending on the rewriting opportunity. Specifically, when a predetermined operation is performed by the user, the image is rewritten from the first image to the second image in the first rewrite mode, and the predetermined automatic rewrite conditions such as changes in room temperature and air volume are satisfied. If is satisfied, the first image is rewritten to the second image in the second rewrite mode. When the air conditioning controller is operated by the user, the image can be rewritten quickly so that the waiting time for operation can be shortened, and when the predetermined automatic rewriting conditions are satisfied, the image takes a certain amount of time. It is possible to preferably improve the convenience of the user by preparing for the later information confirmation → operation as a configuration for neatly rewriting.

Means 13. An operation unit operated by the user, a controller unit (controller unit 20) provided with the display unit and the display control unit, and
A holder (holder 30) for holding the controller unit detachably is provided.
The air conditioning controller according to any one of means 1 to 12, wherein power is supplied to the display unit and the display control unit of the controller unit from the internal power supply of the controller unit.

By applying the technical idea shown in the means 1 or the like to the configuration shown in the means 13, it is preferable to avoid the frequent need for battery replacement and charging, and to improve the convenience by making the air conditioning controller portable. Can be demonstrated.

Means 14. An air conditioner including an air conditioner according to any one of means 1 to 13 and an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) that operates based on command information from the air conditioner controller.

According to the above configuration, the convenience of the air conditioner can be suitably improved.

The block diagram which shows the air conditioner in 1st Embodiment. Schematic view of the air conditioning controller from the front side. (A) Schematic diagram showing display contents, (b) Schematic diagram showing transition of hierarchy. The schematic diagram which illustrated the flow of operation. The schematic diagram which illustrated the flow of operation. Sectional drawing which shows the structure of a display. The schematic diagram which illustrated the state of the afterimage generation. Schematic diagram comparing display control modes. (A) Schematic diagram showing the flow of display switching in the first display control mode, (b) Schematic diagram showing the flow of display switching in the second display control mode. A flowchart showing a display control process executed by the CPU. A flowchart showing a menu display control process. A flowchart showing the room temperature / air volume display control process. A flowchart showing a parameter display control process. The schematic diagram which shows the relationship between various triggers and a display control mode. The flowchart which shows the parameter display control processing in 2nd Embodiment. A flowchart showing a refresh process. A timing chart showing the basic refresh flow. The schematic diagram which shows the update pattern. The schematic diagram which shows the relationship between various moments and a display control mode in 3rd Embodiment.

<First Embodiment>
Hereinafter, one embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. This embodiment is embodied in an air conditioner applied to a building such as a house.

As shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioner 10 includes an air conditioner 11 (air conditioner) having heating / cooling and dehumidifying functions, and an air conditioner controller 12 which is a wireless controller for the air conditioner 11. The air conditioning controller 12 can perform various operations such as switching the operation mode (cooling mode, heating mode, dehumidifying mode, and blowing mode) of the air conditioner 11, setting the temperature, setting the air volume and the air direction, and the settings are changed by the operations. If so, command information indicating that fact is transmitted to the air conditioner 11. The air conditioner 11 switches the operation mode and the like based on the received command information.

The air-conditioning controller 12 is composed of a controller unit 20 as a portable type operating means and a holder 30 fixed to a wall surface 40 or the like of a living room, and the controller unit 20 is detachably held by the holder 30 (FIG. FIG. 2). The controller unit 20 is composed of a controller main body 21 and a case body 22 that houses the controller main body 21 so as to expose the display surface 21a, and air conditioning information, operation icons, etc., which will be described later, are displayed on the display surface 21a. Will be done.

The controller unit 20 is provided with a CPU 51 (corresponding to a “display control unit”) that mainly controls the air conditioning controller 12. A display 53 (corresponding to a "display unit") is connected to the CPU 51 via a graphic IC 52. The graphic IC 52 controls the display of the display 53 based on the command information from the CPU 51. Further, a capacitance type touch panel 55 is connected to the CPU 51 via a touch IC 54. The touch panel 55 is laminated on the display 53 so as to be located on the front side of the display 53, and is configured so that the display content of the display 53 can be visually recognized through the touch panel 55. The touch IC 54 has a function of detecting a change in current (change in capacitance) of a portion touched by a user's finger when the touch panel 55 is operated, and the detection information is output from the touch IC 54 to the CPU 51. Will be done. The CPU 51 determines the presence / absence of an operation and the position of the operation based on the input detection information. The operation detection method on the touch panel 55 is not limited to the capacitance method, and other methods such as a resistance film method, an electromagnetic induction method, and an ultrasonic method may be used.

Further, the controller unit 20 is provided with a temperature / humidity sensor 57 (corresponding to "environmental information acquisition means") for detecting the temperature and humidity in the room. The temperature / humidity sensor 57 is connected to the CPU 51, the temperature and humidity detection information is grasped by the CPU 51, and information such as the current room temperature is displayed on the display 53.

The controller unit 20 is provided with a power switch 58, an internal power supply 62 which is a primary battery, and a power supply circuit 61. When the power switch 58 is turned on, power is supplied from the internal power supply 62 to the CPU 51, graphic IC 52, touch IC 54, etc. through the power supply circuit 61, and when the power switch 58 is turned off, power is supplied to the CPU 51, etc. Is blocked. In the controller unit 20 shown in the present embodiment, when the power switch 58 is ON, various information (air conditioning information) related to air conditioning is displayed on the display surface 21a (display 53) of the controller main body 21, specifically, the operation mode and the operation mode. The controller is configured to constantly display control information indicating adjustment parameters for air conditioning and environmental information indicating the temperature and humidity of the living room (see Fig. 3 (a)), improving user convenience. ..

As shown in FIG. 3B, the screens displayed on the display surface 21a include a main menu screen for menu selection (first layer), an operation menu screen for switching the operation menu (second layer), and the operation menu screen (second layer). It is possible to switch (transition is possible) to the detailed setting screen (third layer) for individually setting adjustment parameters (hereinafter, also simply referred to as parameters) such as the set temperature and the set air volume. These screens are configured to be switched when the user operates for switching screens or when the conditions for returning to the main new screen are satisfied.

First, the main menu screen will be described with reference to FIG. 3A. On the main menu screen, the above air conditioning information and an operation icon as an operation means for changing the setting are displayed. Specifically, as air conditioning information, an operation mode display image 71 showing the current operation mode, an indoor temperature display image 72 showing the current indoor temperature, and a set temperature display image 73 showing the current set temperature. , An air volume display image 74 showing the current air volume (air flow rate) is displayed. Details will be described later, but when the room temperature changes or the air volume changes, the room temperature display image 72 and the air volume display image 74 become images corresponding to the latest room temperature and air volume at any time. Updated (switched). Further, as operation icons, an operation switching icon 75 for switching the operation mode, a fan switching icon 76 for switching the air volume and the wind direction, and a temperature setting icon 77 for changing the temperature setting are displayed.

As shown in FIG. 4, when the operation switching icon 75 is operated (pressed) while the main menu screen is displayed, the main menu screen is switched to the operation menu screen. On the operation menu screen, a teaching image 91 indicating that the operation menu screen is displayed, an operation icon for selecting an operation mode, a cooling mode icon 92, a heating mode icon 93, a dehumidifying mode icon 94, and a ventilation mode icon. 95 and the return icon 96, which is an operation icon for returning to the main menu screen, are displayed. That is, the type and arrangement of the displayed operation icons are significantly changed from the main menu screen.

FIG. 4 illustrates a case where the cooling mode icon 92 is operated by the user while the operation menu screen is displayed. In this case, the operation mode is switched to the cooling mode and the temperature adjustment screen is switched to one of the detailed setting screens. Further, the temperature setting icon 77 on the main menu screen functions as a shortcut icon to the detailed setting screen, and the temperature setting icon 77 is switched to the temperature adjustment screen even when the user operates the temperature setting icon 77.

On the temperature adjustment screen, a teaching image 81 indicating that the screen is a temperature adjustment screen, a set temperature display image 82 indicating the current set temperature, and UP icon 83 and DOWN icon 84, which are operation icons for temperature adjustment, are displayed. Is displayed. When the DOWN icon 84 is operated, the set temperature is lowered by 1 ° C., and the set temperature display image 82 is updated to the image corresponding to the latest set temperature (see FIG. 5). When the UP icon 83 is operated, the set temperature is raised by 1 ° C., and the set temperature display image 82 is updated with an image corresponding to the latest set temperature. When the image is rewritten by adjusting the set temperature, the set temperature display image 82 is changed, but the type and position of the operation icon such as the UP icon 83 are not changed.

Similarly, when the heating mode icon 93 is operated while the operation menu screen is displayed, the set temperature can be adjusted by switching to the temperature adjustment screen. When the dehumidification mode icon 94 is operated while the operation menu screen is displayed, the operation mode is switched to the dehumidification mode and the humidity adjustment screen is switched to one of the detailed setting screens. On the humidity adjustment screen, a teaching image indicating that the screen is a humidity adjustment screen, a set humidity display image indicating the current set humidity, and an UP icon and a DOWN icon, which are operation icons for humidity adjustment, are displayed. When the UP icon is operated, the set humidity is raised by 1% and the set humidity display image is updated (switched) to the image corresponding to the latest set humidity, and when the DOWN icon is operated, the set humidity is set. Is reduced by 1% and the image for displaying the set humidity is updated (switched) to the image corresponding to the latest set humidity. When the image is rewritten by adjusting the set humidity, the set humidity display image is changed, but the type and position of the operation icon such as the UP icon are not changed.

Returning to the explanation of the main menu screen, if the fan switching icon 76 is operated while the main menu screen is displayed, the screen will switch to the air volume / wind direction adjustment screen, which is one of the above detailed setting screens. .. In this air volume / wind direction adjustment screen, a teaching image indicating that the screen is an air volume / wind direction adjustment screen, a set air volume display image indicating the current air volume, a set wind direction display image indicating the wind direction, and an operation for adjusting the air volume. An air volume adjustment icon (UP icon, DOWN icon, AUTO icon), which is an icon, and a wind direction adjustment icon, which is an operation icon for adjusting the wind direction, are displayed. For example, when the UP icon is operated, the set air volume is raised by one level and the image for setting air volume display is updated (switched) to the image corresponding to the latest set air volume, and when the DOWN icon is operated, it is set. The air volume is reduced by one level, the set air volume display image is updated (switched) to the image corresponding to the latest set air volume, and the set air volume is automatically changed when the AUTO icon is operated. At the same time, the set air volume display image is changed to the image corresponding to the automatic mode. When the image is rewritten by adjusting the set air volume and wind direction, the set air volume display image and the set wind direction display image are changed, but the type and position of the operation icons such as the UP icon are not changed. ..

As described above, the configuration in which the above air-conditioning information is displayed and maintained even during the operation waiting period (standby) in which the user is not performing the operation is such that the user can check the air-conditioning status. It is advantageous in improving convenience. However, if the convenience of the user is improved by continuing to display the information even during standby as described above, the power consumption of the air conditioner 10 (particularly the air conditioner controller 12) tends to increase, and for example, the air conditioner 10 It is expected to be an obstacle to realizing energy saving. Here, one of the features of the present embodiment is that the display 53 is constructed by electrophoretic electronic paper. With regard to the electrophoretic electronic paper, although a certain amount of power is required to rewrite the image, the power consumption when maintaining the same image while being displayed can be extremely reduced. As a result, it is possible to suppress an increase in power consumption due to an improvement in the convenience of the air conditioning controller 12. Hereinafter, the specific structure of the display 53 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the controller unit 20.

The display 53 has a film-like base layer 101 that constitutes the back surface of the display, a film-like surface layer 102 that constitutes the front surface of the display, and an intermediate layer provided between the base layer 101 and the surface layer 102. It has 103 and. The base layer 101 has an insulating property, and an electrode 106 formed by arranging minute metal plates vertically and horizontally along the base layer 101 is arranged on the front surface side thereof. The surface layer 102 also has an insulating property, and an electrode 107, which is a transparent conductive film, is arranged on the back surface side thereof. The electrodes 106 and 107 are connected to the graphic IC 52, and the graphic IC 52 controls the voltage applied to the electrode 106 based on an instruction from the CPU 51. In the state where no voltage is applied, the electrodes 106 and 107 are the same, and when the voltage is applied, a potential difference is generated between the electrodes 106 and 107.

A microcapsule 105 as an electrophoresis element that constitutes dots (pixels) of each image is provided between the electrode 106 and the electrode 107. The microcapsules 105 are arranged for each electrode 106, and a display layer composed of a large number of microcapsules 105 arranged two-dimensionally is formed between the base layer 101 and the surface layer 102. The intermediate layer 103 is composed of electrodes 106 and 107 and microcapsules 105.

The microcapsule 105 is composed of a spherical transparent capsule filled with a colorless and transparent dispersion liquid 110 (oil), a large number of white particles 111 enclosed in the transparent capsule, and a large number of black particles 112. The black particles 112 are negatively charged and the white particles 111 are positively charged, and the white particles 111 and the black particles 112 are displaced according to the potential difference between the electrodes 106 and 107. Specifically, when the electrode 106 has a higher potential than the electrode 107, the positively charged white particles 111 are attracted to the electrode 107 side, and the negatively charged black particles 112 are attracted to the electrode 106 side. Gravitate. As a result, the color of the dots when the display 53 is viewed from the front side becomes white. On the other hand, when the electrode 106 has a lower potential than the electrode 107, the positively charged white particles 111 are attracted to the electrode 106 side, and the negatively charged black particles 112 are attracted to the electrode 107 side. Gravitate. As a result, the color of the dots when the display 53 is viewed from the front side becomes black.

Here, for the electrophoretic electronic paper, screen switching (image rewriting) depends on the displacement of the particles 111 and 112. Therefore, even if a voltage is applied to displace the particles 111 and 112, for example, the particles collide with each other or an attractive force acts between the particles, so that the particles 111 and 112 are displaced between the electrodes 106 and 107. May not work. Hereinafter, the behavior when such a situation occurs will be supplementarily described with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7A is a schematic diagram illustrating the flow of image rewriting, and FIG. 7B is a schematic diagram illustrating the movement of particles at the specific location S in FIG. 7A.

When the rewriting condition to the image B is satisfied in the situation where the image A is displayed, the voltage is applied to the electrodes 106 and 107 in the pattern corresponding to the image B. Specifically, a voltage is applied so that the electrode 106 has a lower potential than the electrode 107 at the dot to be displayed in black in the image B, and the electrode 106 is the electrode 107 at the dot to be displayed in white. The voltage is applied so that the potential becomes higher than that of the above.

At the dots of the specific portion S, which is the target of black display in image A and the target of white display in image B, the black particles 112 start to be displaced toward the electrode 106 with the application of the above-mentioned voltage. , The white particles 111 start to displace towards the electrode 107. However, in the example shown in FIG. 7, even when the voltage application is completed and the potential difference between the electrodes 106 and 107 becomes zero, some black particles 112 remain on the electrode 107 side and some white particles. 111 remains on the electrode 106 side. In this case, the color of the dots at the specific location S, which should normally change from black to white, is light black (gray). That is, the afterimage of the image A remains thin even after the rewriting to the image B. When such an afterimage becomes strong, the visibility (distinguishability, clarity) of the image B after rewriting can be lowered.

Further, when the rewriting condition to the image C is satisfied in the situation where the image B is displayed, a voltage is applied to each electrode 106 in a pattern corresponding to the image C. Specifically, a voltage is applied so that the electrode 106 has a lower potential than the electrode 107 at the dot to be displayed in black in the image C, and the electrode 106 is the electrode 107 at the dot to be displayed in white. The voltage is applied so that the potential becomes higher than that of the above.

Here, the dots at the specific location S are subject to white display, the black particles 112 start to be displaced toward the electrode 106 with the application of the voltage described above, and the white particles 111 are directed toward the electrode 107. Start the displacement. However, in the example shown in FIG. 7, even when the voltage application is completed and the potential difference between the electrodes 106 and 107 becomes zero, some black particles 112 remain on the electrode 107 side and some white particles. 111 remains on the electrode 106 side. In this case, the color of the dots at the specific location S, which should normally change from black to white, remains light black (gray). That is, the afterimage of the image A remains thin even after the rewriting to the image C. Although the degree of afterimage can be alleviated by repeating the application of voltage in a mode corresponding to the white display, the visibility (distinguishability, clarity) of the image C after rewriting is lowered by the continuation of the gray display. Can be. Further, since the image B remains as a new afterimage, the afterimages are accumulated, and the visibility of the image C can be greatly reduced.

The effect of such an afterimage becomes remarkable by shortening the waiting time for image rewriting and improving the responsiveness, while it can be mitigated by trying to remove the afterimage at the time of image rewriting. In the present embodiment, the CPU 51 functions as a "display control unit", and the first display control mode (corresponding to the "image rewriting mode") of the display 53 by the CPU 51 emphasizes the responsiveness of image rewriting. One of the features is that the display control mode and the second display control mode that emphasizes mitigation of the influence of afterimages (visibility of the image after rewriting) are used together (see FIG. 8). Hereinafter, the difference in the image rewriting mode between the first display control mode and the second display control mode will be described with reference to FIG. Note that FIG. 9 illustrates a case where the displayed image X is rewritten to the target image Y for convenience of explanation.

As shown in FIG. 9A, when the image X is rewritten to the image Y in the first display control mode, a voltage is applied to the electrodes 106 and 107 so as to generate a potential difference corresponding to the image Y. As a result, the image X → the image Y can be directly rewritten. After the rewriting to the image Y is completed, the application of the voltage to the electrodes 106 and 107 is finished, so that further power consumption is avoided. According to such a rewriting mode (hereinafter, also referred to as direct rewriting), the waiting time for image rewriting can be reduced and the responsiveness of image rewriting can be improved. However, on the other hand, the above-mentioned afterimage tends to remain.

As shown in FIG. 9B, when the image X is rewritten to the image Y in the second display control mode, the configuration goes through four phases ST1 to ST4.

In the first phase ST1, the print pattern (bright / dark pattern, black and white) of the image X is inverted. Specifically, for each of the electrodes 106 and 107, if the electrode 106 has a higher potential than the electrode 107, a voltage is applied so that the electrode 106 has a lower potential than the electrode 107, and the electrode 106 has a higher potential than the electrode 107. For those having a low potential, a voltage is applied so that the electrode 106 has a higher potential than the electrode 107 (hereinafter referred to as inverted display). In the subsequent second phase ST2, a voltage is applied so that all the electrodes 106 have a higher potential than the electrodes 107 in order to erase the inverted image and make the entire screen white (hereinafter referred to as full brightness display). ).

After executing the full-brightness display, the process proceeds to the third phase ST3, and as a preparatory display before displaying the image Y, a preparatory image having a print pattern opposite to that of the image Y is displayed in advance. Specifically, a voltage is applied to each of the electrodes 106 and 107 so as to generate a potential difference corresponding to the preparatory image in which the print pattern is opposite to that of the image Y. In the subsequent fourth phase ST4, the image Y is displayed by inverting the print pattern of the prepared image displayed in the third phase ST3. Specifically, for each of the electrodes 106 and 107, if the electrode 106 has a higher potential than the electrode 107, a voltage is applied so that the electrode 106 has a lower potential than the electrode 107, and the electrode 106 has a higher potential than the electrode 107. For those having a low potential, a voltage is applied so that the electrode 106 has a higher potential than the electrode 107. After the rewriting to the image Y is completed, the application of the voltage to the electrodes 106 and 107 is finished, so that further power consumption is avoided.

In the present embodiment, when the image is rewritten in the second display control mode, the voltage application (about 70 msec) is repeated a plurality of times (for example, 3 to 8 times) in each phase ST1 to ST4. When the image is rewritten in the first display control mode, the voltage is applied only once (about 70 msec).

In the second display control mode, the image Y is displayed after removing the afterimage of the image X in the reverse display of the first phase ST1 and the full brightness display of the second phase ST2 (corresponding to "refresh display"). , The influence of the afterimage is greatly mitigated as compared with the first display control mode. That is, while the second display control mode is inferior to the first display control mode in the responsiveness of image rewriting, it is superior to the first display control mode in terms of visibility (distinguishability, clarity) of the image after rewriting.

In the present embodiment, the display control modes applied according to the opportunity of image rewriting are different, and the power consumption in the air conditioner 10 can be reduced by properly using the first display control mode and the second display control mode. One of the features is that both reduction and improvement of convenience are achieved. Hereinafter, the display control process executed by the CPU 51 will be described. The display control process is a process executed as a part of the periodic process, and includes a menu display control process (step S101), a room temperature / air volume display control process (step S102), and a parameter display control process (step S103) (FIG. 10). reference).

As shown in FIG. 11, in the menu display control process, first, in step S201, it is determined whether or not the menu display is being switched. Specifically, it is determined whether or not one of the main menu screen, the operation menu screen, and the detailed setting screen is being switched to the other screen. If a negative determination is made in step S201, the process proceeds to step S202. In step S202, it is determined whether or not the user has performed the menu switching operation. Specifically, when the main menu screen is displayed, it is determined whether or not any of the operation switching icon 75, the fan switching icon 76, and the temperature setting icon 77 has been operated, and the operation menu screen is displayed. If so, it is determined whether or not any of the cooling mode icon 92, the heating mode icon 93, the dehumidifying mode icon 94, the ventilation mode icon 95, and the return icon 96 has been operated, and the temperature adjustment screen, etc. When the detailed setting screen of is displayed, it is determined whether or not the return icon has been operated.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S202, the process proceeds to step S203 to execute the menu display first switching start process. In this process, image rewriting (menu display switching) is started in the first display control mode. For example, when the operation switching icon 75 is operated while the main menu screen is displayed, the operation menu screen is displayed in the first display control mode, and when the temperature setting icon 77 is operated while the main menu screen is displayed. The temperature setting screen is displayed in the first display control mode, and the temperature setting screen is displayed in the first display control mode when the cooling mode icon 92 or the heating mode icon 93 is operated while the operation menu screen is displayed. If the return icon is operated while the operation menu screen or temperature setting screen is displayed, the main menu screen is displayed.

In the following step S204, the menu display first switching flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51, and in step S205, the timer counter for restoring the RAM is reset. Although the details will be described later, the CPU 51 determines whether or not to return to the main menu screen by referring to the return timer counter. After that, in step S206, the operation for switching the menu is prohibited, the parameter adjustment operation is prohibited, and the menu display control process is terminated.

Returning to the description of step S202, if a negative determination is made in step S202, that is, if the menu switching operation has not been performed, the process proceeds to step S209. In step S209, it is determined whether or not the main menu screen is displayed. If an affirmative determination is made in step S209, the menu display control process is terminated as it is. If a negative determination is made in step S209, that is, if either the operation menu screen or the detailed setting screen is displayed, the process proceeds to step S210.

In step S210, the return timer counter is updated. Specifically, the value of the return timer counter is added by 1. In the following step S211 it is determined whether or not the value of the return timer counter is the first threshold value (for example, corresponding to 30 sec). If a negative determination is made in step S210, the menu display control process is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S210, the process proceeds to step S212 to execute the menu display second switching start process. In this process, switching of the menu display is started in order to display the main menu screen in the second display control mode. Specifically, reverse display (refresh display) that reverses the print pattern of the image is started (first phase ST1).

In the following step S213, the menu display second switching flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51. After that, in step S206, the operation for switching the menu is prohibited, the parameter adjustment operation is prohibited, and the menu display control process is terminated.

Returning to the description of step S201, if an affirmative determination is made in step S201, the process proceeds to step S207. In step S207, it is determined whether or not the menu display first switching flag is stored in the RAM of the CPU 51. If an affirmative determination is made in step S207, the menu display first switching process for direct rewriting is executed in step S208, and then the menu display control process is terminated.

In the menu display first switching process, first, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 70 msec) has elapsed since the start of the image rewriting this time. When the predetermined time has elapsed, the application of the voltage to the electrodes 106 and 107 is terminated. As a result, the rewriting of the image in the first display control mode is completed. After the voltage application is completed, the restrictions on the menu switching operation and the parameter adjustment operation are released, and the menu display first switching flag stored in the RAM is erased.

When a negative determination is made in step S207, that is, when the menu display second switching flag is stored in the RAM, the menu display second switching process is executed in step S214 to end the menu display control process. ..

In the present embodiment, the ROM of the CPU 51 stores a map showing a procedure for rewriting the image in the second display control mode. This map shows the relationship between the elapsed time after the start of image rewriting and the voltage application pattern, and in the menu display second switching process, the voltage applied to the electrodes 106 and 107 is controlled with reference to the map. do. As a result, the display is switched in the order of the first phase ST1 → the second phase ST2 → the third phase ST3 → the fourth phase ST4. Then, after the image rewriting is completed, the restrictions on the menu switching operation and the parameter adjustment operation are released, and the menu display second switching flag stored in the RAM is deleted.

Next, the room temperature / air volume display control process in step S102 will be described with reference to FIG. The room temperature / air volume display control process is roughly classified into the room temperature display process in steps S301 to S306 and the air volume display process in steps S307 to S312.

In the room temperature display process, first, it is determined in step S301 whether or not the room temperature display on the display 53 is being updated, that is, the room temperature display image 72 on the main menu screen is being rewritten. do. If a negative determination is made in step S301, the process proceeds to step S302. In step S302, it is determined whether or not the main menu screen is being displayed. If an affirmative determination is made in step S302, the process proceeds to step S303. In step S303, referring to the detection information from the temperature / humidity sensor 57, it is determined whether or not a predetermined change (in this embodiment, a change of 0.5 ° C or more with respect to the temperature currently displayed) has occurred in the room temperature. judge. If an affirmative determination is made in step S303, the process proceeds to step S304 to execute the room temperature display update start process. This room temperature display update start process corresponds to the second display control mode, and starts reverse display (refresh display) that reverses the print pattern of the image currently being displayed (first phase ST1). In the following step S305, the room temperature display updating flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51. The room temperature display updating flag is a flag referred to when determining whether or not the room temperature display is being updated by the CPU 51.

Returning to the description of step S301, when an affirmative determination is made in step S301, that is, when the room temperature display is being updated, the room temperature display update process is executed in step S306. In the room temperature display update process, the display is switched with reference to the above map stored in the ROM. As a result, the display is switched in the order of the first phase ST1 → the second phase ST2 → the third phase ST3 → the fourth phase ST4. Then, when the rewriting of the image is completed, the room temperature display updating flag stored in the RAM is deleted.

After executing the processes of steps S305 and S306, or when a negative determination is made in steps S302 and S303, the air volume display process after step S307 is executed.

In the air volume display process, first, it is determined in step S307 whether or not the air volume display on the display 53 is being updated, that is, the air volume display image 74 on the main menu screen is being rewritten. .. If a negative determination is made in step S307, the process proceeds to step S308. In step S308, it is determined whether or not the main menu screen is being displayed. If an affirmative determination is made in step S308, the process proceeds to step S309. In step S309, it is determined whether or not a predetermined change (level change) has occurred in the air volume (air flow rate) with reference to the driving state of the fan. If an affirmative determination is made in step S309, the process proceeds to step S310 to execute the air volume display update start process. This air volume display update start process corresponds to the second display control mode, and starts reverse display (refresh display) that reverses the print pattern of the image currently being displayed (first phase ST1). In the following step S311, the air volume display updating flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51. The air volume display updating flag is a flag that is referred to when the CPU 51 determines whether or not the air volume display is being updated.

Returning to the description of step S307, if an affirmative determination is made in step S307, that is, if the air volume display is being updated, the air volume display update process is executed in step S312. In the room temperature display update process, the display is switched with reference to the above map stored in the ROM. As a result, the display is switched in the order of the first phase ST1 → the second phase ST2 → the third phase ST3 → the fourth phase ST4. Then, when the rewriting of the image is completed, the flag for updating the air volume display stored in the RAM is deleted.

After executing the processes of steps S311 and S312, or when a negative determination is made in steps S308 and S309, the room temperature / air volume display control process is terminated.

On the main menu screen, the update of the room temperature display and the air volume display (update of the main menu screen) and the menu operation by the user (operation of the operation switching icon 75 and the like) may accidentally overlap. In such a case, the menu operation is prioritized and the update of the room temperature display and the air volume display by the user is avoided.

Next, the parameter display control process (step S103) will be described with reference to FIG.

In the parameter display control process, first, it is determined in step S401 whether or not the detailed setting screen is being displayed. If a negative determination is made in step S401, the parameter display control process is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S401, the process proceeds to step S402. In step S402, whether or not the parameter display is being updated, specifically, whether or not the set temperature display image 82 is being updated on the temperature setting screen, and humidity adjustment. Whether or not the set humidity display image is being updated on the screen, and whether or not the set air volume display image or the set wind direction display image is being updated on the air volume / wind direction adjustment screen. Is determined. If the display of any of the parameters is not being updated, a negative determination is made in step S402 and the process proceeds to step S403.

In step S403, it is determined whether or not the parameter adjustment operation has been performed. Specifically, on the temperature setting screen, it is determined whether or not the operation icon for temperature adjustment (UP icon 83, DOWN icon 84) has been operated by the user, and on the humidity adjustment screen, the operation icon for humidity adjustment is determined by the user. It is determined whether or not (UP icon, DOWN icon) has been operated, and whether or not the operation icon for adjusting the air volume or the operation icon for adjusting the wind direction has been operated on the air volume / wind direction adjustment screen. If an affirmative determination is made in step S403, the process proceeds to step S404.

In step S404, the parameter display update start process is executed. In this process, the update is started in the first display control mode in order to reflect the result of the adjustment operation in the displayed parameter (direct rewriting). For example, when the temperature adjustment operation icon is operated on the temperature setting screen, the rewriting of the set temperature display image 82 is started so that the new set temperature changed by the operation is displayed (temperature). Start rewriting the setting screen). After that, in step S405, the parameter display updating flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51, and the parameter display control process ends.

Returning to the description of step S402, if an affirmative determination is made in step S402, that is, if the parameter display is being updated, the parameter display update process is executed in step S406 to display this parameter. End the control process.

In the parameter display update process, first, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 70 msec) has elapsed since the start of the image rewriting this time. When the predetermined time has elapsed, the application of the voltage to the electrodes 106 and 107 is terminated. As a result, the rewriting of the image in the first display control mode is completed. After the voltage application is completed, the parameter display updating flag stored in the RAM is cleared. If the parameter adjustment operation is performed again before the predetermined time elapses, the updating operation acceptance flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51. That is, in the present embodiment, the operation of the operation icon itself is effectively accepted even while the parameter display is being updated. It should be noted that a plurality of updating operation reception flags are provided individually corresponding to each operation icon, and it is possible to identify after the fact which operation icon was operated from the type of the updating operation reception flag.

Returning to the description of step S403, if a negative determination is made in step S403, that is, if the parameter adjustment operation has not been performed, the process proceeds to step S407. In step S407, it is determined whether or not the updating operation acceptance flag is stored in the RAM of the CPU 51. If a negative determination is made in step S407, the parameter display control process is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S407, the process proceeds to step S408 to clear the updating operation acceptance flag stored in the RAM. After that, after executing each of the processes of steps S404 and S405, the parameter display control process is terminated.

Here, with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 14, the relationship between the image rewriting opportunity and the rewriting mode will be supplementarily described.

When the image is rewritten triggered by the menu switching operation by the user, the first display control mode is applied. When switching to the main menu screen, operation menu screen, or detailed setting screen triggered by the menu switching operation, it is assumed that the user is gazing at the display 53, so the first display control mode is used promptly. Improved responsiveness is achieved by switching screens.

When the image is rewritten triggered by the parameter adjustment operation by the user, the first display control mode is applied and the parameters are updated to reflect the adjustment operation. In this case, although the entire screen is switched to the one corresponding to the adjusted parameter, the type and arrangement of the part other than the part where the parameter is displayed (parameter display part) on the detailed setting screen, such as the operation icon, is changed before and after the switching. It will be the same. It is assumed that the parameter adjustment operation is repeated multiple times by the user, but even if the rewriting (direct rewriting) in the first display control mode is continuous due to such repeated operation, the operation icon is displayed. It is possible to preferably avoid being difficult to understand.

When the image is rewritten when the room temperature or the air volume changes, the second display control mode is applied and the air conditioning information is automatically updated to be the latest information. In addition, if the standby time elapses without any operation being performed while the operation menu screen and the detailed setting screen are displayed, the screen automatically returns to the main menu screen. It is assumed that these automatic rewriting conditions occur mainly in a situation where the user is not watching the display 53. Therefore, the convenience of the user can be suitably improved by preparing for the later information confirmation → operation as a configuration in which the images are neatly switched over a certain period of time.

According to the first embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

The operation of the air conditioner 11 is often continued under the conditions set at the start of operation, and the period during which the air conditioner controller 12 is operated is extremely short as compared with the period waiting for operation. Therefore, if the display 53 of the air conditioning controller 12 is configured by electronic paper as described above, although a certain amount of electric power is required when rewriting the image with the operation, the case where the information on the air conditioning is maintained while being displayed. The power consumption of the air conditioner can be extremely reduced. For example, as compared with the case where the display 53 is configured by a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, a plasma display, or the like, it is possible to preferably suppress an increase in power consumption due to an improvement in convenience.

It is preferable to switch the various information (images) displayed on the display 53 not only by the user's operation but also by the change of the control state (air volume) and the environment (room temperature and humidity) to provide the information to the user. It is preferable to exert it on the surface. Here, as shown in the above embodiment, as the display control mode for image rewriting (for screen switching), the first display control mode that emphasizes the responsiveness of image rewriting and the effect mitigation of afterimage (rewriting). A second display control mode that emphasizes the visibility of the later image) is provided, and when an operation is performed by the user, the image is rewritten in the first display control mode, while changes in room temperature, air volume, etc. If the automatic rewriting condition is satisfied, the image is rewritten in the second display control mode, and when the air conditioning controller 12 is operated by the user, the image is quickly rewritten and the operation is awaited. The time can be shortened, and when the automatic rewriting condition is satisfied, it is possible to prepare for the later information confirmation → operation as a configuration in which the images are switched neatly over a certain period of time. Thereby, the convenience of the user can be suitably improved.

It is also preferable in the following points to suppress the increase in power consumption caused by the improvement of convenience. That is, even when the convenience is further improved by making the air-conditioning controller portable, it is possible to avoid the frequent replacement of the battery of the air-conditioning controller and to more preferably exert the effect of improving the convenience. be able to.

<Second embodiment>
As described above, when various parameters such as the set temperature and the set air volume are adjusted by the user, the operation icon for parameter adjustment may be repeatedly operated a plurality of times. It is preferable to rewrite the image for each operation in the first display control mode to improve the responsiveness of the image rewriting in order to improve the user's satisfaction. However, when the image rewriting in the first display control mode is repeated, the visibility of the image may be significantly reduced due to the accumulation of afterimages as shown in FIG. 7. During the operation, the user may remember the image before rewriting, so it may be possible to identify the image if there is a certain amount of afterimage, but the user's memory fades over time. After that, it is assumed that identification based on the memory will be difficult. That is, the accumulation of the afterimages described above can be a factor that makes it difficult to visually confirm the parameters after the fact. Here, for example, if the waiting time until automatically returning to the main menu screen is shortened and the main menu screen is returned immediately, it is possible to avoid difficulty in confirming the parameters. However, in such a configuration, the user is forced to perform a screen switching operation (for example, an operation of the temperature setting icon 77 or the like) when the parameter adjustment operation is performed next time. It is expected that such an increase in user's labor will hinder the improvement of convenience. One of the features of this embodiment is that the device is devised in consideration of such circumstances. Hereinafter, the characteristic configuration in the present embodiment will be described with a focus on the differences from the first embodiment. First, the parameter display control process in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

In the parameter display control process, first, it is determined in step S501 whether or not the detailed setting screen is displayed. If a screen other than the detailed setting screen is displayed, a negative determination is made in step S501, and the parameter display control process is terminated as it is. If the detailed setting screen is displayed, an affirmative determination is made in step S501 and the process proceeds to step S502.

Details will be described later, but in the present embodiment, when a specified time has elapsed after the parameter adjustment operation is performed, the refresh condition is satisfied, and various refresh processes for removing the afterimage from the image displayed by the CPU 51. Specifically, the process for redisplaying the displayed image in the second display control mode is started. In step S502, it is determined whether or not the refresh is being performed. If refreshing is in progress, a negative determination is made in step S502 and the process proceeds to step S503.

In step S503, it is determined whether or not the parameter display is being updated. Specifically, whether or not the display of the set temperature is being updated on the temperature setting screen, whether or not the display of the set humidity is being updated on the humidity adjustment screen, and whether or not the set air volume and the set wind direction are being updated on the air volume / wind direction adjustment screen. Judges whether or not the display of is being updated. If the parameter display is not being updated, a negative determination is made in step S503 and the process proceeds to step S504.

In step S504, it is determined whether or not the parameter adjustment operation has been performed. Specifically, on the temperature setting screen, it is determined whether or not the operation icon for temperature adjustment (UP icon 83, DOWN icon 84) has been operated by the user, and on the humidity adjustment screen, the operation icon for humidity adjustment (UP icon 83, DOWN icon 84) is determined by the user. It is determined whether or not the UP icon (UP icon, DOWN icon) has been operated, and whether or not the operation icon (UP icon, DOWN icon) for adjusting the air volume or the operation icon for adjusting the wind direction has been operated on the air volume / wind direction adjustment screen. do. When the AUTO icon is operated among the operation icons for adjusting the air volume, the screen is switched to the main menu screen in the second display control mode, and the characters AUTO are additionally displayed as the air volume display image 74.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S504, the process proceeds to step S505. In step S505, the parameter display update start process related to the direct rewriting is executed in order to immediately update the displayed parameter. This process corresponds to the first display control mode. For example, when the operation icon for temperature adjustment is operated on the temperature setting screen, the new set temperature changed by the operation is set to be displayed. Start rewriting the temperature display image 82 (start rewriting the temperature setting screen).

After executing the parameter display update start process in step S505, the parameter display updating flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51 in step S506 as a flag indicating that the parameter display is being updated. If the refresh completion flag described later is stored in the RAM, the refresh completion flag is deleted in step S507. The refresh completion flag is a flag that is set when the above refresh is completed. After that, in step S508, the refresh timer counter provided in the RAM is reset (cleared to 0) to end the parameter display control process.

Returning to the description of step S504, if a negative determination is made in step S504, that is, if the parameter adjustment operation has not been performed, the process proceeds to step S509. In step S509, it is determined whether or not the updating operation acceptance flag is stored in the RAM of the CPU 51. If an affirmative determination is made in step S509, the process proceeds to step S510 to clear the updating operation acceptance flag stored in the RAM. After that, after executing each process of steps S505 to S508, the parameter display control process is terminated.

If a negative determination is made in step S509, that is, if the parameter adjustment operation has not been performed and the operation has not been performed even during the parameter display update, the process proceeds to step S511. In step S511, it is determined whether or not the refresh completion flag is stored in the RAM of the CPU 51. If the refresh completion flag is stored, a negative determination is made in step S509, and the parameter display control process is terminated as it is. If a negative determination is made in step S511, the process proceeds to step S512. In step S512, the refresh timer counter described above is updated. Specifically, the refresh timer counter is added by 1. In the following step S513, it is determined whether or not the value of the refresh timer counter is the second threshold value (3 sec in the present embodiment) corresponding to the specified time.

If it is not the timing when the predetermined time has elapsed from the parameter adjustment operation, a negative determination is made in step S513, and the parameter display control process ends. When the timing has passed the predetermined time, an affirmative determination is made in step S513, the process proceeds to step S514, and the refresh start process is executed. The specified time may be arbitrarily changed as long as it is longer than the predetermined time and shorter than the waiting time. For example, it may be 0.5 sec, 1 sec, 5 sec, or 10 sec.

The refresh start process in step S514 corresponds to the second display control mode, and starts reverse display (refresh display) that reverses the print pattern of the image (first phase ST1). In the following step S515, the menu switching operation is prohibited, and in step S516, the refreshing flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51 as a flag indicating that refreshing is in progress. After that, the refresh timer counter is reset in step S508 to end the parameter display control process.

Returning to the description of step S502, when an affirmative determination is made in step S502, that is, when the refreshing flag is stored in the RAM, after executing the refreshing process in step S502, this parameter display control process To finish. Here, the refreshing process will be described with reference to FIG.

In the refreshing process, first, in step S601, it is determined whether or not it is the timing to complete the refreshing. If a negative determination is made in step S601, the process proceeds to step S602. In step S602, it is determined whether or not the parameter adjustment operation has been performed. If a negative determination is made in step S602, the refresh process is executed in step S603, and then the refresh process is terminated.

As described in the first embodiment, the ROM of the CPU 51 stores a map showing a procedure for rewriting the image in the second display control mode. This map shows the relationship between the elapsed time after the start of image rewriting and the voltage application pattern, and in the refresh process in step S603, the voltage applied to the electrodes 106 and 107 is controlled with reference to the map. .. As a result, the display is switched in the order of the first phase ST1 → the second phase ST2 → the third phase ST3 → the fourth phase ST4. However, in the refresh process, the display contents and the like are not changed, and the contents of the image before switching and the contents of the image after switching are substantially the same. That is, although the degree of afterimage is different, the images that can be displayed before and after refreshing are the same. By removing the afterimage in this way and then redisplaying the image, the visibility of the image is ensured.

Returning to the description of step S601, when an affirmative determination is made in step S601, that is, when it is time to complete the refresh, the process for completing the refresh in steps S609 to S611 is executed. Specifically, in step S609, the refreshing flag stored in the RAM is erased, and in the following step S610, the menu switching operation is permitted. After that, in step S611, the refresh completion flag indicating that the refresh is completed is set in the RAM, and the refresh processing is completed.

Here, the refresh flow will be described with reference to the timing chart of FIG. 17 (a).

In the example shown in FIG. 17A, the DOWN icon 84 is operated three times in succession after switching to the temperature setting screen (timing of ta1 to ta3), and the set temperature is 24 ° C → 23 ° C → 22 ° C. → It is changed in the order of 21 ° C. In line with this, the set temperature displayed on the display 53 is also updated in the order of 24 ° C → 23 ° C → 22 ° C → 21 ° C. The time from the first operation to the second operation and the time from the second operation to the third operation are both shorter than the above-mentioned specified time, and the image can be rewritten by the first display control mode. It is being executed promptly. In the following description, an operation mode in which the same operation is repeated so that the interval time between operations is shorter than the above-mentioned specified time is referred to as "continuous operation".

Refreshing is started at the timing of ta4 when the specified time has elapsed since the third operation was performed. During refreshing, the set temperature becomes temporarily difficult to see due to the full-brightness display or the like, but at the timing of ta5 when the refreshing is completed, the set temperature is redisplayed with the afterimage removed. After that, the display will continue until the condition for automatically returning to the main menu screen is satisfied.

Here, in the configuration that requires a certain amount of time for refreshing as described above, it cannot be denied that the parameter adjustment operation may be performed during the refreshing. In the present embodiment, when such an adjustment operation is performed, a special update process is executed so as to promptly display a parameter reflecting the operation result. Hereinafter, the special update process will be described with reference to FIGS. 15, 16 and 18 again.

As shown in FIG. 16, when the parameter adjustment operation is performed during the refresh, an affirmative determination is made in step S602 and the process proceeds to step S604. In step S604, the progress of refreshing is grasped. That is, it is grasped which of the first phase ST1 to the fourth phase ST4 is being executed. In the following step S605, a special update pattern is set with reference to the progress status grasped in step S604.

Specifically, when the adjustment operation is performed during the first phase ST1, the second phase ST2 (all-light conversion display) → the fourth phase ST4 (target image display) is set as a special update pattern, and the second phase ST2 If an adjustment operation is performed during the adjustment operation, the fourth phase ST4 is set as a special update pattern, and if an adjustment operation is performed during the third phase ST3 or the fourth phase ST4, the second phase is set as a special update pattern. Phase ST2 → Phase 4 ST4 is set (see FIG. 18). That is, regardless of the timing at which the adjustment operation is performed, the influence of the afterimage on the image to be displayed next can be reduced by the intervention of the second phase ST2. In the fourth phase ST4 of the special update pattern, the voltage applied to the electrodes 106 and 107 is controlled in order to display the image corresponding to the parameter changed by the operation. In the following description, the display control mode when the image is rewritten by the special update pattern is referred to as "special display control mode", and is distinguished from the first display control mode and the second display control mode.

Incidentally, in the present embodiment, the special update pattern is used properly according to the progress of refreshing, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to configure the configuration in which a predetermined phase (for example, only the fourth phase ST4) is executed regardless of the progress of refreshing.

In the following step S606, the parameter display special update start process is executed. In this process, the application of the voltage to the electrodes 106 and 107 is started based on the special update pattern set in step S605.

After that, in step S607, a special update flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51 as a flag indicating that the special update process is in progress, and in step S608, the refreshing flag stored in the RAM is erased for this refresh. End the process.

Returning to the description of FIG. 15, if the special update is being executed, that is, if an affirmative determination is made in step S503 and step S517, the process proceeds to step S519. In step S519, the parameter display special update process is executed. This process corresponds to the special control mode, and controls the voltage applied to the electrodes 106 and 107 based on the special update pattern set in step S605. Then, after the image rewriting is completed, the restriction on the menu switching operation is released and the special update flag stored in the RAM is deleted.

Here, the flow of image rewriting when the refresh operation is performed with reference to the timing chart of FIG. 17B will be described.

The example shown in FIG. 17B is similar to the example shown in FIG. 17A in that the refreshing is started at the timing when the specified time elapses after the third operation is performed. However, the DOWN icon 84 is operated again at the timing of tb5 during refreshing, that is, at the timing before the timing of tb5 that should have completed the refreshing, and the set temperature is 21 based on this fourth operation. It has been changed from ° C to 20 ° C. The refresh is stopped based on the fourth operation, and the set temperature displayed on the display 53 is updated to 20 ° C through the full-light rotation display.

Then, at the timing of tb6 when the specified time has elapsed since the fourth operation was performed, the refresh is started. Although the set temperature is temporarily difficult to see during the refresh, the set temperature is redisplayed with the afterimage removed at the timing of tb7 when the refresh is completed. After that, the display will continue until the condition for automatically returning to the main menu screen is satisfied.

According to the second embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

If the parameter adjustment operation is performed by the user before the automatic rewriting condition is satisfied (the specified time has elapsed) on the detailed setting screen, the parameter image is quickly converted to an image that reflects the operation result in the first display control mode. Is rewritten as. In this way, the responsiveness of image rewriting is improved by promptly executing the operation → image rewriting and shortening the waiting time for the operation. Here, when the operation is continuously executed and the rewriting (direct rewriting) in the first display control mode is repeated, the previously displayed image remains as an afterimage even after the rewriting of the image. Become. It is assumed that it becomes difficult to identify the image due to the increase in such afterimages. In this regard, as shown in the present embodiment, when the rewriting is performed directly, the displayed image is refreshed and redisplayed when the automatic rewriting condition is satisfied without any operation by the user. NS. By removing the afterimage in this way, it is possible to improve the image rewriting speed while facilitating the subsequent confirmation of the image.

When the operations are continuous, the number of consecutive operations can vary. Therefore, as shown in the present embodiment, by resetting the refresh timer counter each time the image is rewritten, the refresh is executed before the continuous operation is completed, that is, the refresh function hinders the operation. This can be suitably suppressed. Further, as shown in the present embodiment, when an operation is performed by the user during refreshing, the refreshing function is hindered by stopping the refreshing and rewriting the image based on the operation. It is preferable to suppress this.

<Third embodiment>
In the first and second embodiments described above, when the image is rewritten triggered by the user's operation (excluding the operation during refreshing), the display control mode is set to the first display control mode, and the automatic rewriting condition is satisfied. When the image is rewritten as an opportunity, the display control is set to the second display control mode, so that the reduction of the power consumption of the air conditioner 10 and the improvement of the convenience are achieved at the same time. The present embodiment is the same as the first and second embodiments in that the first display control mode and the second display control mode are used together as the display control mode, and the refresh display is performed after the parameter adjustment. It is the same as the second embodiment in that it is. However, the relationship between the image rewriting trigger and the display control mode is different from that of the first and second embodiments. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 19, the relationship between the image rewriting opportunity and the rewriting mode in the present embodiment will be described, focusing on the differences from the second embodiment.

When the image is rewritten triggered by the menu switching operation by the user, the second display control mode is applied. The types and arrangement of displayed images (air conditioning information, operation icons) differ greatly for each screen of the main menu screen, operation menu screen, and detailed setting screen. Therefore, by suppressing the influence of the afterimage by rewriting the screen in the second display control mode that emphasizes visibility, it is possible to preferably suppress the difficulty in understanding the operation icon or the like after switching the screen.

When the image is rewritten triggered by the parameter adjustment operation by the user, the display control mode applied differs depending on whether or not refreshing is in progress. If not refreshing, the first display control mode is applied and the parameters are immediately updated to reflect the adjustment operation, as in the first and second embodiments. If refreshing is in progress, the special display control mode is applied, and the parameters are updated to reflect the adjustment operation via full-brightness display. By passing through the full-bright conversion display, it is possible to prevent the visibility of the rewritten image from being lowered due to the display disorder during refreshing.

When the refresh condition is satisfied (the specified time has elapsed from the previous operation), the second display control mode is applied, and the image is redisplayed after removing the afterimage. The refresh condition is defined on the assumption that the user completes a series of operations, and suppresses the refresh function from becoming a factor that reduces the convenience of the user.

The second display control mode is applied when the image is rewritten when the room temperature or the air volume changes. This point is the same as in the first and second embodiments.

<Other Embodiments>
The content is not limited to the description of each of the above-described embodiments, and may be implemented as follows, for example. Incidentally, each of the following configurations may be individually applied to each of the above embodiments, or a part or all of them may be combined and applied to each of the above embodiments. Further, it is also possible to arbitrarily combine all or a part of the various configurations shown in each of the above embodiments. In this case, it is preferable that the technical significance (effect to be exerted) of each configuration to be combined is guaranteed.

-In each of the above embodiments, when the parameter adjustment operation is performed, the image is rewritten for the entire detailed setting screen, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to have a configuration in which the image is rewritten (a configuration in which partial rewriting is performed) only for the images that are different before and after the rewriting (specifically, the parameter display area).

-When the automatic rewriting condition is satisfied due to a change in room temperature or air volume, it is possible to change the display control mode to be applied according to the timing when the automatic rewriting condition is satisfied. For example, when the automatic rewriting condition is satisfied between the operation by the user and the elapse of a specific time, the first display control mode is applied to emphasize the responsiveness of the image rewriting, while the specific time elapses. If the automatic rewriting condition is satisfied after the rewriting, the second display control mode may be applied to emphasize the visibility of the rewritten image.

-In each of the above embodiments, the voltage is applied to the electrodes 106 and 107 only once in the first display control mode, but the electrodes 106 and 107 are applied to the electrodes 106 and 107 in the same manner as in each phase in the second display control mode. It is also possible to have a configuration in which the application of voltage is repeated a plurality of times.

-In each of the above embodiments, the display 53 is constructed by electrophoretic electronic paper, but instead, the display 53 can be constructed by other electronic paper such as an electron powder fluid system.

-In each of the above embodiments, the air conditioning controller 12 is a portable type, but it is also possible to make it a fixed type.

-In each of the above embodiments, the internal power supply 62 is used as the primary battery, but the configuration in which the internal power supply 62 is used as the secondary battery is not denied. Further, when the controller unit 20 is attached to the holder 30, power is supplied from the external power supply (commercial power supply) to a device such as the CPU 51, and when the controller unit 20 is removed from the holder 30, the internal power supply 62 It is also possible to have a configuration in which power is supplied to a device such as the CPU 51.

-After rewriting the image in the first display control mode triggered by the user's operation, the image is rewritten in the second display control mode triggered by the establishment of the automatic rewriting condition until the predetermined regulation time elapses. It is also possible to have a regulated configuration. Regarding the operation of the air conditioning controller 12, the operation may be executed a plurality of times until the setting is completed. Therefore, as shown in this modification, by temporarily restricting the rewriting of the image by the second rewriting means, the image in the second display control mode having a long waiting time regardless of the user's intention is used. It is possible to prevent rewriting from interrupting.

-When various operations are performed at the timing when the automatic rewriting conditions are satisfied (when the triggers overlap), the image rewriting in the first display control mode based on the operation is prioritized. , It is possible to preferably avoid that the automatic rewriting function becomes a factor of lowering the responsiveness at the time of operation. In this case, for example, the image rewriting based on the establishment of the automatic rewriting condition may be delayed until a predetermined timing is reached after the image rewriting by the first display control mode is completed.

-It is also possible to make the application pattern of the first display control mode / second display control mode different depending on whether the controller unit 20 is attached to the holder 30 or removed. For example, when the controller unit 20 is attached to the holder 30, the first display control mode and the second display control mode are used together, while when the controller unit 20 is removed from the holder 30, the first display is displayed. The configuration may be such that only the control mode is applied. However, when rewriting in the first display control mode is continuous, the influence of the afterimage tends to be strong for the reason described above. Therefore, when the above-mentioned specified time has elapsed after the operation is performed, it is preferable to perform refreshing to remove the afterimage.

-In both the temperature adjustment and air volume adjustment, rewriting is performed in the first display control mode, and refreshing is performed when the above specified time has elapsed from the final operation, but this is not limited to this. No. It is also possible to make the specified time different depending on the type of adjustment operation. For example, when the temperature adjustment operation is performed, the refresh is performed when the first specified time elapses, and when the air volume adjustment operation is performed, the second specified time is shorter than the first specified time. It may be configured to refresh when the time has passed. Further, when the temperature adjustment operation is performed, the refresh is performed when the first specified time elapses, and when the air volume adjustment operation is performed, the third specified time is shorter than the first specified time. It may be configured to refresh when the time has passed.

-In the second and third embodiments, the afterimage is removed by the first phase ST1 (reverse display) and the second phase ST2 (full brightness display), but these two phases are indispensable. Instead, one of them may be omitted. Further, the second phase ST2 may be configured to perform full dark display instead of full bright display. Of the four phases related to the second display control mode, the third phase ST3 may be omitted.

-In the second and third embodiments described above, the refresh is performed when the specified time has elapsed since the last adjustment operation was performed on the detailed setting screen, but the present invention is not limited to this. .. For example, it is possible to have a configuration in which refreshing is performed when a predetermined time has elapsed since the first adjustment operation was performed on the detailed setting screen. Further, instead of or in addition to the above configuration, a configuration in which refreshing is performed when the number of continuous operations reaches a specified number of operations is also possible.

-In the second and third embodiments, the operation mode when the same type of operation icons (for example, UP icon 83 and DOWN icon 84) having the same parameters to be adjusted are continuously operated is referred to as "continuous operation". However, instead of this, the operation mode when the same operation icon is repeatedly operated may be referred to as "continuous operation".

-For the second and third embodiments, when the same adjustment operation as the previous operation (for example, UP operation → UP operation) is performed before the lapse of the specified time, an image is written in the first display control mode. On the other hand, if an adjustment operation different from the previous operation (for example, UP operation → DOWN operation) is performed before the lapse of the specified time, the image may be rewritten in the second display control mode. .. If the same operation as the previous operation is performed, the image is quickly rewritten to shorten the waiting time for the operation, and if an operation different from the previous operation is performed, that is the final adjustment operation. Since it is assumed that there is a high possibility that there is a high possibility, the convenience of the user can be suitably improved by preparing for the later information confirmation → operation as a configuration in which the images are switched neatly over a certain period of time.

-In the second and third embodiments described above, when the parameter adjustment operation is performed, the refresh timer counter is configured to start the measurement of the specified time, but the image is written with the parameter adjustment operation as an opportunity. When the replacement is completed, the refresh timer counter may be used to start measuring the specified time.

-If a parameter adjustment operation is performed during image rewriting in the second display control mode, the image rewriting in the second display control mode is stopped and the parameter reflecting the adjustment operation is displayed. While the image is rewritten in the first display control mode in this way, if the menu switching operation is performed during the rewriting of the image in the second display control mode, the image is rewritten in the second display control mode. It is also possible to rewrite the image in the second display control mode by canceling and displaying the menu corresponding to the menu switching operation.

-In the third embodiment, the display control mode applied to the menu switching operation and the parameter adjustment operation is different, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is possible to configure the display control mode to be applied differently when the display position of the operation icon is changed before and after rewriting and when the display position of the operation icon is not changed before and after rewriting. .. Specifically, the second display control mode is applied when the display position of the operation icon is changed before and after rewriting, and the first display control mode is applied when the display position of the operation icon is not changed before and after rewriting. May be configured to apply. With such a configuration, it is possible to preferably exert the effect of shortening the waiting time for operation to improve the responsiveness and the effect of suppressing the operation icon from becoming difficult to understand due to the influence of the afterimage.

<Other invention groups extracted from each of the above embodiments>
Hereinafter, the characteristics of the invention group extracted from each of the above-described embodiments will be described while showing the effects and the like as necessary. In the following, for the sake of easy understanding, the corresponding configurations in the above-described embodiment are appropriately shown in parentheses or the like, but the present invention is not limited to the specific configurations shown in the parentheses or the like.

<Characteristic A group>
The following feature A group includes "an air conditioner including an air conditioner in which a user changes a set temperature and the like, and an air conditioner in which air conditioning is performed based on an instruction from the air conditioner controller. In this type of air conditioner, the air conditioner controller has a display unit that displays information related to air conditioning, such as control information such as operation mode (cooling, heating, dehumidification, and ventilation) and adjustment parameters for air conditioning (set temperature, set air volume). Regarding the background technology of "often provided", "In this type of air conditioning controller, for example, the above various information is maintained while being displayed even during the period of waiting for the operation of the air conditioning controller (during standby)." This is advantageous in improving the convenience of the user when checking the air conditioning status, etc. Here, if the display unit of the air conditioning controller is configured by electronic paper, the state in which information is displayed is maintained. Even when the convenience is improved, it is possible to preferably suppress the increase in power consumption of the air conditioner. Regarding electronic paper, the power consumption can be reduced as compared with other display devices such as liquid crystal displays. Although it is excellent, the image quality deteriorates by trying to increase the responsiveness when switching (changing) the image according to the user's operation, etc., and the responsiveness deteriorates by trying to suppress the deterioration of the image quality. There is a concern that the air-conditioning controller will decrease. In this way, there is still room for improvement in the air-conditioning controller in order to achieve both reduction in power consumption and improvement in convenience. " It is an air conditioner.

Features A1. An air conditioning controller (air conditioning controller 12) capable of controlling an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) based on a user's operation.
A display unit (display 53) capable of displaying an image of control information (operation mode, set temperature, air volume, etc.) of the air conditioner using electronic paper as a display medium.
A display control unit (CPU51) that controls the display of the display unit is provided.
As a rewriting mode (display control mode) in which the image of the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit, the first rewriting mode (first display control mode) and the rewriting of the image rather than the first rewriting mode are performed. While the required time is long, there is a second rewrite mode (second display control mode) in which the afterimage of the image before rewriting is less likely to remain after the image is rewritten.
The image displayed on the display unit includes operation icons (for example, operation switching icon 75, temperature setting icon 77, UP icon 83, DOWN icon 84, etc.) to be operated by the user.
An operation detection means (touch panel 55 and touch IC 54) for detecting the operation of the operation icon by the user is provided.
As a mode of rewriting the image in the display unit, a first mode in which the arrangement of the operation icons on the display unit does not change before and after the rewriting (for example, when the UP icon 83 and the DOWN icon 84 are operated on the temperature setting screen). The rewriting mode) and the second mode in which the arrangement of the operation icons on the display unit changes before and after the rewriting (for example, the rewriting mode when the operation switching icon 75, the temperature setting icon 77, etc. are operated in the main menu). Is provided,
The display control unit
When the image rewriting mode in the display unit is the first mode, the means for rewriting the image in the first rewriting mode and
An air conditioning controller having a means for rewriting an image in the second rewriting mode when the image rewriting mode in the display unit is the second mode.

The operation of the air conditioner is often continued under the conditions set at the start of operation, and the period during which the air conditioner controller is operated is extremely short as compared with the period of waiting for operation. Therefore, if the display unit of the air conditioning controller is configured by electronic paper as described above, a certain amount of electric power is required to rewrite the image due to the operation, but the information on the air conditioning is maintained while being displayed. Power consumption can be extremely reduced. For example, as compared with the case where the display unit is composed of a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, a plasma display, or the like, an increase in power consumption due to an improvement in convenience can be suitably suppressed.

Various information (images) displayed on the display unit will be rewritten based on the user's operation. Here, according to the configuration shown in the present feature A1, if the arrangement of the operation icons does not change before and after the rewriting, the image is quickly rewritten in the first rewriting mode to reduce the waiting time for the operation. Can be shortened. On the other hand, if the arrangement of the operation icons changes before and after the rewrite, the operation icons may become difficult to understand due to the influence of the afterimage by rewriting the image neatly over a certain period of time in the second rewrite mode. Can be suppressed. Thereby, the convenience of the user can be suitably improved.

Means A2. An air conditioning controller (air conditioning controller 12) capable of controlling an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) based on a user's operation.
A display unit (display 53) capable of displaying an image of control information (operation mode, set temperature, air volume, etc.) of the air conditioner using electronic paper as a display medium.
A display control unit (CPU51) that controls the display of the display unit is provided.
As a rewriting mode (display control mode) in which the image of the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit, the first rewriting mode (first display control mode) and the rewriting of the image rather than the first rewriting mode are performed. While the required time is long, there is a second rewrite mode (second display control mode) in which the afterimage of the image before rewriting is less likely to remain after the image is rewritten.
The image displayed on the display unit includes operation icons (for example, operation switching icon 75, temperature setting icon 77, UP icon 83, DOWN icon 84, etc.) to be operated by the user.
An operation detection means (touch panel 55 and touch IC 54) for detecting the operation of the operation icon by the user is provided.
As the operation icon, a first operation icon for menu switching (for example, operation switching icon 75) and a second operation icon for air conditioning control parameter adjustment (for example, UP icon 83, DOWN icon 84) are provided.
The display control unit
A means for rewriting an image in the second rewriting mode when the first operation icon is operated, and
An air conditioning controller having a means for rewriting an image in the first rewriting mode when the second operation icon is operated.

Various information (images) displayed on the display unit will be rewritten based on the user's operation. Here, when comparing the case where the first operation icon for menu switching is operated and the case where the second operation icon for adjusting the air conditioning control parameters is operated, the former is a change in the displayed image rather than the latter. (Difference in images before and after rewriting) is expected to become noticeable. According to the configuration shown in this feature A2, when the second operation icon for adjusting the air conditioning control parameters is operated, that is, when the difference between the images before and after the rewriting is relatively small, the first rewriting mode is set. By quickly rewriting the image, the time waiting for the operation can be shortened. On the other hand, when the first operation icon for menu switching is operated, that is, when the difference between the images before and after rewriting becomes relatively large, the image takes a certain amount of time in the second rewriting mode. By neatly rewriting, it is possible to prevent the identification of the displayed information from becoming difficult to understand due to the influence of the afterimage. Therefore, the convenience of the user can be suitably improved.

Means A3. The second operation icon is described in feature A2, which is an operation icon in which the display position on the display unit matches before and after the rewriting when the image on the display unit is rewritten with the operation of the second operation icon as a trigger. Air conditioning controller.

According to the above configuration, even if the image is rewritten in the first rewriting mode, it is possible to prevent the operation icon from becoming difficult to understand due to the influence of the afterimage.

Feature A4. The air conditioning controller according to feature A2 or feature A3, which is an operation icon that is hidden when the image on the display unit is rewritten with the operation of the first operation icon as a trigger.

Even though the operation icon is hidden, the afterimage makes it appear as if the operation icon exists, which is a factor that confuses the user. Therefore, it is technically significant to have a configuration in which the influence of the afterimage is suppressed by the second rewrite mode when the first operation icon is operated as shown in the present feature A2.

Feature A5. An air conditioning controller (air conditioning controller 12) capable of controlling an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) based on a user's operation.
A display unit (display 53) capable of displaying an image of control information (operation mode, set temperature, air volume, etc.) of the air conditioner using electronic paper as a display medium.
A display control unit (CPU51) that controls the display of the display unit is provided.
As a rewriting mode (display control mode) in which the image of the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit, the first rewriting mode (first display control mode) and the rewriting of the image rather than the first rewriting mode are performed. While the required time is long, there is a second rewrite mode (second display control mode) in which the afterimage of the image before rewriting is less likely to remain after the image is rewritten.
The image displayed on the display unit includes an operation icon (for example, UP icon 83, DOWN icon 84, etc.) to be operated by the user.
An operation detection means (touch panel 55) for detecting the operation of the operation icon by the user is provided.
As the operation icon, an operation icon for adjusting the air conditioning control parameter is provided.
The display control unit
A means for rewriting an image in the first rewriting mode when the same operation icon as the previous operation is operated, and
An air conditioning controller having a means for rewriting an image in the second rewriting mode when an operation icon different from the previous operation is operated.

Various information (images) displayed on the display unit will be rewritten based on the user's operation. Here, in the configuration shown in the present feature A5, the image rewriting mode is different depending on whether the same operation icon as in the previous operation is operated or the operation icon different from the previous operation is operated. When the same operation icon as in the previous operation is operated, the time waiting for the operation can be shortened by quickly rewriting the image in the first rewrite mode. In this case, even if the afterimage of the operation icon that was displayed earlier remains, the operation icon will not be difficult to understand due to the influence of the afterimage. On the other hand, if an operation icon different from the previous operation is operated, the operation icon is difficult to understand due to the influence of the afterimage by rewriting the image neatly over a certain period of time in the second rewrite mode. It can be suppressed. Thereby, the convenience of the user can be suitably improved.

In addition, each technical idea shown in feature A2 to feature A5 may be applied to feature A1.

<Characteristic B group>
The following feature group B is "according to an image display device whose display screen is composed of electronic paper, the power consumption when maintaining an image in a display state is significantly higher than that of a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, a plasma display, etc." Regarding the background technology, "However, although electronic paper is excellent in that it can reduce power consumption, it is structurally because the image is rewritten due to the movement of colored particles, etc." , The time required to rewrite an image tends to be longer than that of a liquid crystal display or the like. In addition, the previous image may remain as an afterimage even after the image is rewritten, and the influence of such an afterimage is large. As a result, the discriminating power of the image (information) after rewriting may decrease. In recent years, various measures have been taken to improve the rewriting speed while suppressing the deterioration of the discriminating power of the image. There is still room for improvement in the composition. ”This was done in view of the background and issues.

Feature B1. A display unit (display 53) that uses electronic paper as a display medium,
A display control unit (CPU51) that controls the display of the display unit is provided.
The image displayed on the display unit is rewritten by applying a voltage to the electrodes (electrodes 106, 107) of the electronic paper, while the rewritten image is displayed without applying a voltage to the electrodes (power consumption). An image display device (controller unit 20) that can be maintained (without having to do so).
The display control unit
A rewriting means (a function of executing the processes of steps S505 and S518 in the CPU 51) of rewriting the image of the display unit based on an operation by the user without going through a predetermined refresh display, and
When a predetermined condition (for example, elapse of a predetermined time) is satisfied without any operation by the user after the image is rewritten by the rewriting means, the image displayed on the display unit is refreshed. An image display device having a redisplay means (a function of executing the process of step S603 in the CPU 51) for redisplaying after being displayed.

According to the configuration shown in the feature B1, when the operation is performed by the user prior to the establishment of the predetermined condition after the operation, the image of the display unit is rewritten by the rewriting means without going through the predetermined refresh display. It will be. In this way, the responsiveness of image rewriting is improved by promptly executing the operation → image rewriting and shortening the waiting time for the operation. Here, when the operations are continuously executed and the rewriting (hereinafter, also referred to as direct rewriting) that does not go through the predetermined refresh display is continuous, the previously displayed image is an image. It will remain as an afterimage even after rewriting, and it is assumed that it will be difficult to identify the image due to the increase in such afterimages. Also, during the operation, the user may remember the image before rewriting, so it may be possible to identify the image if there is a certain amount of afterimage, but the user's memory over time. It is assumed that it will be difficult to identify by relying on the memory after the image has faded. In this regard, as described above, when a predetermined condition is satisfied without any operation by the user after the image is rewritten by the rewriting means, the displayed image is redisplayed after a predetermined refresh display. With the configuration, identification can be facilitated even when the image is confirmed after the fact. With such a configuration, it is possible to improve the rewriting speed while suppressing a decrease in the discriminating power of the image.

Feature B2. The image display device according to feature B1, wherein the predetermined condition is satisfied when a predetermined time (for example, 5 sec) elapses after the image rewriting by the rewriting means is executed, and the redisplaying is performed by the redisplaying means. ..

By redisplaying the image based on the elapse of a predetermined time from the image rewriting (operation completion), it is possible to make it difficult to give the user the impression that the redisplaying is troublesome. As a result, the effect shown in feature B1 can be suitably exerted.

Feature B3. A time measuring means (refresh timer counter) for measuring the time elapsed since the image rewriting by the rewriting means is executed is provided.
The redisplay means is configured to satisfy the predetermined condition and perform the redisplay when the time measured by the time measuring means reaches the predetermined time (for example, 5 sec).
It is provided with an initial value setting means (a function of executing the process of step S508 in the CPU 51) for setting an initial value in the time measuring means when the image is rewritten by the rewriting means based on an operation by the user. The image display device according to feature B1, characterized in that the image is displayed.

By redisplaying the image based on the elapse of a predetermined time from the image rewriting (operation completion), it is possible to make it difficult to give the user the impression that the redisplaying is troublesome. As a result, the effect shown in feature B1 can be suitably exerted.

Further, when the operations are continuous, the number of consecutive operations may vary. Therefore, as shown in this feature B3, by setting the initial value in the time measuring means each time the image is rewritten, redisplay (predetermined refresh display) is executed before the continuous operation is completed. This can be suitably suppressed.

Regarding the feature B2 and the feature B3, the description "the predetermined condition is satisfied when the predetermined time elapses after the image rewriting by the rewriting means is executed" is described as "predetermined after the operation by the user is performed". It is also possible to say that the predetermined condition is satisfied when the time has passed.

Feature B4. The predetermined refresh display includes at least one of a reverse display that inverts a print pattern (for example, black and white) of a displayed image and an erase display (full light or full dark) that erases the displayed image. The image display device according to any one of B1 to B3.

When the display unit is composed of electronic paper, as shown in this feature B4, afterimages are preferably formed by inverting the print pattern (brightness / darkness pattern) or erasing the image as a predetermined refresh display. Can be reduced.

Feature B5. As a rewriting mode (display control mode) in which the image of the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit, the first rewriting mode (first display control mode) and the rewriting of the image rather than the first rewriting mode are performed. While the required time is long, there is a second rewrite mode (second display control mode) in which the afterimage of the image before rewriting is less likely to remain after the image is rewritten.
The rewriting means is a first rewriting means for rewriting an image in the first rewriting mode when the same operation as the previous operation is performed before the predetermined condition is satisfied.
A feature B1 to a feature B4 having a second rewriting means for rewriting an image in the second rewriting mode when an operation different from the previous operation is performed before the predetermined condition is satisfied. The image display device according to any one.

If the same operation as the previous operation is performed before the predetermined condition is satisfied, the image is quickly rewritten to shorten the waiting time for the operation, and the operation is different from the previous operation before the predetermined condition is satisfied. If is performed, it is assumed that it is likely to be the last operation, so it takes a certain amount of time to rewrite the image neatly. Convenience can be suitably improved.

In addition, the configuration shown in this feature is described as "the first rewriting mode (first display control mode) and the first document as a rewriting mode (display control mode) in which the image of the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit". While the time required to rewrite the image is longer than that of the rewriting mode, there is a second rewriting mode (second display control mode) in which the afterimage of the image before rewriting is less likely to remain after the rewriting of the image. The rewriting means is a first rewriting means for rewriting an image in the first rewriting mode when an operation similar to the previous operation is performed before the predetermined condition is satisfied. Features B1 to B4 provided with a second rewriting means for rewriting an image in the second rewriting mode when an operation different from the previous operation is performed before the predetermined condition is satisfied. The image display device according to any one of the above. ” In this case, the "same type" is a common operation in that it is not only the same operation (for example, an operation of adding a predetermined air-conditioning parameter → an operation of adding a predetermined air-conditioning parameter) but also an operation of adjusting a predetermined air-conditioning parameter. It includes operations in which the actions of things are reversed (for example, an operation of adding → an operation of subtracting, or an operation of subtracting → an operation of adding).

Feature B6. As operation targets by the user, a first operation target (temperature adjustment button icon) and a second operation target (return button icon) whose control items (actions) are different from those of the first operation target are provided.
The first rewriting means is the first document when the first operation target is re-operated after the image is rewritten based on the operation of the first operation target and before the predetermined condition is satisfied. It is configured to rewrite the image in the replacement mode.
The second rewriting means is the second rewriting when the second operation target is operated after the image is rewritten based on the operation of the first operation target and before the predetermined condition is satisfied. The image display device according to feature B5, which is configured to rewrite an image in a mode.

When the operation is executed in the order of the first operation target → the first operation target, the image is quickly rewritten to shorten the waiting time for the operation, and the operation is executed in the order of the first operation target → the second operation target. If this is the case, the effect shown in feature B5 can be suitably exhibited by preparing for the later information confirmation → operation as a configuration in which the image is rewritten neatly over a certain period of time.

Feature B7. When an operation is performed by the user during the refresh display by the redisplay means, the display control unit is configured to stop the refresh display and rewrite the image based on the operation. The image display device according to any one of feature B1 to feature B6.

As shown in feature B1, in a configuration in which a predetermined condition is waited for and redisplayed (refresh display) after the operation is completed, if the predetermined condition is satisfied before the operation is completed, the operation cannot be performed until the redisplay is completed. Is concerned that the redisplay function may give the impression that the user is troublesome. Therefore, when an operation is performed by the user during the refresh display, it is preferable to stop the refresh display and rewrite the image based on the operation to suppress the occurrence of the above inconvenience.

Feature B8. The rewriting means has a configuration in which the images are rewritten only for a specific image displayed in a predetermined area of the display unit among the images displayed on the display unit. Features B1 to B7 The image display device according to any one of the above.

In a configuration in which the image rewritten by the rewriting means is limited to the image (specific image) displayed in a predetermined area on the display screen, the distinctiveness is deteriorated when the afterimage is accumulated due to the continuous operation. It is feared that it will become prominent. By applying the technical idea shown in the feature B1 or the like to such a configuration, a practically preferable configuration can be realized.

Feature B9. A display unit (display 53) that uses electronic paper as a display medium,
A display control unit (CPU51) that controls the display of the display unit is provided.
The image displayed on the display unit is rewritten by applying a voltage to the electrodes (electrodes 106, 107) of the electronic paper, while the rewritten image is displayed without applying a voltage to the electrodes (power consumption). An image display device (controller unit 20) that can be maintained (without having to do so).
The display control unit
A rewriting means for rewriting the image of the display unit based on a predetermined operation (temperature adjustment operation) by the user without going through a predetermined refresh display.
When the predetermined condition is satisfied without performing the predetermined operation after the rewriting of the image by the rewriting means is executed based on the predetermined operation, the image displayed on the display unit is displayed as the predetermined image. An image display device having a redisplay means for redisplaying after a refresh display.

According to the configuration shown in the feature B9, when the predetermined operation is performed by the user prior to the establishment of the predetermined condition after the predetermined operation, the image of the display unit is directly rewritten by the rewriting means. .. In this way, the responsiveness of the image rewriting is improved by promptly executing the predetermined operation → image rewriting and shortening the waiting time for the operation. Here, if the direct rewriting is continuous by continuously executing the predetermined operation, the previously displayed image remains as an afterimage even after the image is rewritten, and such an afterimage remains. It is assumed that it will be difficult to identify the image as the number increases. Also, since the user may remember the image before rewriting during the operation, it may be possible to identify the image if there is a certain amount of afterimage, but the user's memory will be stored over time. After fading, it is expected that identification based on the memory will become difficult. In this regard, as described above, when a predetermined condition is satisfied without performing a predetermined operation by the user after the image is rewritten by the rewriting means, the displayed image is re-displayed after a predetermined refresh display. If it is configured to be displayed, it is possible to easily identify the image even after the confirmation of the image. With such a configuration, it is possible to improve the rewriting speed while suppressing a decrease in the discriminating power of the image.

In addition, each technical idea shown in feature B2 to feature B8 may be applied to this feature B9.

10 ... Air conditioner, 11 ... Air conditioner, 12 ... Air conditioner controller, 20 ... Controller unit, 21a ... Display surface, 30 ... Holder, 51 ... CPU, 52 ... Graphic IC, 53 ... Display, 54 ... Touch IC, 55 ... Touch panel , 62 ... Internal power supply, 75 ... Operation switching icon, 76 ... Fan switching icon, 77 ... Temperature setting icon, 83 ... UP icon, 84 ... DOWN icon, 85 ... Home icon, ST1 ... 1st phase, ST2 ... 2nd phase , ST3 ... 3rd phase, ST4 ... 4th phase.

Claims (12)

An air conditioning controller that can control the air conditioner based on the user's operation.
A display unit that uses electronic paper as a display medium and can display information related to air conditioning as an image,
A display control unit that controls the display of the display unit is provided.
As an image rewriting mode in which the image of the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit, there are a first rewriting mode and a second rewriting mode in which the image before rewriting is less likely to remain as an afterimage than the first rewriting mode. Is provided,
The display control unit
An operation determination means for determining whether or not a predetermined operation has been performed by the user,
When the operation determining means determines that the predetermined operation has been performed, the first rewriting means for rewriting the image displayed on the display unit with another image in the first rewriting mode.
An automatic rewriting condition determination means for determining whether or not a predetermined automatic rewriting condition is satisfied, and
When it is determined by the automatic rewriting condition determining means that the predetermined automatic rewriting condition is satisfied, the image displayed on the display unit is rewritten to another image in the second rewriting mode. An air conditioning controller that has two rewriting means. The second rewriting mode is an image rewriting mode in which the image displayed on the display unit is rewritten to the next image after undergoing a predetermined refresh display for removing afterimages.
The air conditioning controller according to claim 1, wherein the first rewriting mode is an image rewriting mode in which an image displayed on the display unit is rewritten to the next image without going through the predetermined refresh display. The predetermined refresh display according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined refresh display includes at least one of a reverse display that reverses the print pattern of the image displayed on the display unit and an erase display that erases the image displayed on the display unit. Air conditioning controller. The automatic rewriting condition determination means is described when a predetermined time elapses without any operation by the user in a situation where an image other than a preset standby image is displayed on the display unit. It is configured to determine that the first automatic rewriting condition, which is a predetermined automatic rewriting condition, has been satisfied.
When the automatic rewriting condition determining means determines that the first automatic rewriting condition is satisfied, the second rewriting means puts the image displayed on the display unit into the second rewriting mode. The air conditioning controller according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a means for rewriting the predetermined standby image. Equipped with an environmental information acquisition means to acquire environmental information that correlates with the indoor environment
The automatic rewriting condition determining means is configured to determine that the second automatic rewriting condition, which is the predetermined automatic rewriting condition, is satisfied when a predetermined change occurs in the indoor environment.
The second rewriting means corresponds to the current indoor environment with the image displayed on the display unit when the automatic rewriting condition determining means determines that the second automatic rewriting condition is satisfied. The air conditioning controller according to any one of claims 1 to 4, which has a means for rewriting an image in the second rewriting mode. Equipped with an environmental information acquisition means to acquire environmental information that correlates with the indoor environment
When the drive parameter of the air conditioner is changed based on the user's operation, the first rewriting means is an image displayed on the display unit and has a correlation with the drive parameter before the change. It has a means for rewriting the image with the image having a correlation with the driving parameter after the change in the first rewriting mode.
The second rewriting means is an image displayed on the display unit when the driving parameter changed based on the operation is changed based on the environmental information acquired by the environmental information acquisition means. The first to fifth aspects of claim 1 to 5, wherein the image having a correlation with the driving parameter before the change is rewritten with the image corresponding to the driving parameter after the change in the second rewriting mode. The air conditioning controller according to any one. When the predetermined operation is performed at the timing when the predetermined automatic rewriting condition is satisfied, the rewriting of the image by the first rewriting means based on the predetermined operation is prioritized. The air conditioning controller according to any one of claims 1 to 6. Claims 1 to 7 provided with a regulating means for restricting the rewriting of an image by the second rewriting means until a predetermined regulation period elapses after the rewriting of the image by the first rewriting means. The air conditioning controller according to any one. The predetermined operation includes a first operation which is an operation for adjusting parameters for air conditioning control and a second operation which is an operation for switching an operation menu.
If the first operation is performed during the rewriting of the image in the second rewriting mode, the rewriting of the image in the second rewriting mode is stopped and the image corresponding to the first operation is displayed. The image is rewritten in the first rewriting mode, while the second operation is performed during the rewriting of the image in the second rewriting mode, the second rewriting mode is used. Any of claims 1 to 8, which is configured to stop the rewriting of the image and display the image corresponding to the second operation to rewrite the image in the second rewriting mode. The air conditioning controller described in one. The image displayed on the display unit includes an operation icon to be operated by the user.
As the image rewriting mode in the display unit, the first mode in which the operation icon is displayed at the same position on the display unit before and after the rewriting, and the arrangement of the operation icon on the display unit changes before and after the rewriting. The second aspect is provided,
The display control unit
When the image rewriting mode in the display unit is the first mode, the means for rewriting the image in the first rewriting mode and
Any one of claims 1 to 9, which has a means for rewriting the image in the second rewriting mode when the rewriting mode of the image in the display unit is the second mode. The air conditioning controller described in one. An air conditioning controller that can control the air conditioner based on the user's operation.
A display unit that uses electronic paper as a display medium and can display information related to air conditioning as an image,
A display control unit that controls the display of the display unit is provided.
As an image rewriting mode in which the image of the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit, the first rewriting mode and the time required for rewriting the image are longer than those of the first rewriting mode, but before rewriting. There is a second rewrite mode that makes it difficult for the image to remain as an afterimage.
The image displayed on the display unit includes an operation icon to be operated by the user.
As the image rewriting mode in the display unit, the first mode in which the arrangement of the operation icons in the display unit does not change before and after the rewriting, and the second mode in which the arrangement of the operation icons in the display unit changes before and after the rewriting. Aspects are provided,
The display control unit
When the image rewriting mode in the display unit is the first mode, the means for rewriting the image in the first rewriting mode and
An air conditioning controller having a means for rewriting an image in the second rewriting mode when the image rewriting mode in the display unit is the second mode. An operation unit operated by a user, a display unit, a controller unit provided with the display control unit, and a controller unit.
A holder for holding the controller unit detachably is provided.
The air conditioning controller according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein power is supplied to the display unit and the display control unit of the controller unit from the internal power supply of the controller unit.

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