JP5318519B2 - Air conditioner operation control apparatus and air conditioner operation control method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a device and a method for controlling operation of air conditioners capable of preventing an intermittent operation state of the air conditioners from continuing and capable of preventing a power consumption amount of the air conditioners from increasing. <P>SOLUTION: This air conditioner operation control device 30 for controlling air-conditioning operation of a plurality of the air conditioners which air-condition a predetermined space 2 includes: an air-conditioning load calculation part 31A for calculating air-conditioning load in the predetermined space based on consumed electric currents of outdoor units 20A-20F connected to indoor units 10A-10L installed in the predetermined space for composing a plurality of the air conditioners and outside air temperature outside the predetermined space; an air conditioner selecting part 31A for selecting an air conditioner controllable to be in an air-conditioning operation state among a plurality of the air conditioners according to the air-conditioning load calculated by the air-conditioning load calculation part; and an air conditioner operation state adjustment part 31A for adjusting the air conditioner selected by the air conditioner selecting part to perform air-conditioning operation within a range of target load ratio in which the air conditioner can be maintained in a continuous operation state. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an air conditioner operation control apparatus and an air conditioner operation control method for controlling air conditioning operations of a plurality of air conditioners that air-condition a predetermined space.

  For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an operation control device for an air conditioner that improves the operation efficiency of an air conditioner when the air-conditioned space is air-conditioned by a plurality of air conditioners. The operation control device of Patent Document 1 includes a temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of the air-conditioned space in the vicinity of each air conditioner among a plurality of air conditioners, and a temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of each air conditioner based on the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit. A control means for controlling the air conditioning capacity, a signal output means for outputting a uniform signal of the air conditioning capacity of each air conditioner, and an air conditioning capacity of each air conditioner in response to the uniform signal of the signal output means Correction means for correcting the control of each air conditioner by the control means in a direction in which the control means is made uniform.

According to the operation control apparatus, when the signal output means outputs the uniform signal, the correction means is activated by the uniform signal, so that the air conditioning capacity of each air conditioner is uniformized. Change. Thereby, since it can suppress that some air conditioners drive | operate with high capability, the power consumption amount as the whole air conditioner can be reduced, and the operation efficiency of the whole air conditioner can be improved.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 3-1031

  However, in the above operation control apparatus, although the air conditioning capability of each air conditioner is made uniform, it is conceivable that each air conditioner is in a state of being operated uniformly with low capacity. In such a case, for example, the intermittent operation state in which the compressor of the outdoor unit constituting each air conditioner repeats the operation state and the stop state may continue. For this reason, when the intermittent operation state continues, when the compressor is frequently started when the compressor is switched from the stop state to the operation state, the compressor is compared with a case where the compressor is continuously operated. The power consumed to start up increases. As a result, when the operation of switching the plurality of air conditioners from the stopped state to the operating state continues and the plurality of air conditioners frequently start up repeatedly, the power consumed to start the compressor is reduced. With the increase, there is a concern that the amount of power consumed by the air conditioner will increase.

  This invention is proposed in view of such a situation, can prevent the intermittent operation state of the air conditioner from continuing, and suppress the increase in the amount of power consumed by the air conditioner. It is an object of the present invention to provide an air conditioner operation control apparatus and an air conditioner operation control method capable of performing the same.

An air conditioner operation control apparatus according to claim 1 is an air conditioner operation control apparatus that controls air conditioner operations of a plurality of air conditioners that air-condition a predetermined space. An air conditioning load calculating unit that calculates an air conditioning load in the predetermined space based on a consumption current of an outdoor unit connected to an indoor unit provided in the space and a temperature of outside air outside the predetermined space; and the air conditioning load In accordance with the air conditioning load calculated by the calculation unit, an air conditioner selection unit that selects the air conditioner that can be controlled to an air conditioning operation state from among the plurality of air conditioners, and the air conditioner that is selected by the air conditioner selection unit An air conditioner operation state adjustment unit that adjusts the air conditioner to perform air conditioning operation in a range of a target load factor that can maintain the machine in a continuous operation state, and the air conditioning load calculation unit is based on the current consumption Calculated The air conditioning load is read from a characteristic diagram showing the relationship between the power consumption of the outdoor unit and the air conditioning capability of the outdoor unit for each temperature of the outdoor air, and the air conditioner selection unit reads the read air conditioning load into the outdoor unit In the selected air conditioner that is the air conditioner selected by the air conditioner selection unit, the load factor of the outdoor unit is calculated by dividing by the maximum air conditioning capacity value of the When it is determined that there is any outdoor unit that constitutes any air conditioner that performs air conditioning operation at a load factor at which the load factor calculated by the air conditioner selection unit is lower than the lower limit value of the target load factor range, The air conditioner operation state adjustment unit performs control to stop the air conditioning operation of the arbitrary outdoor unit, and the air conditioner operating state adjustment unit is different from the arbitrary air conditioner in the selected air conditioner. For other outdoor units that make up other air conditioners By amortization, and performs control of air conditioning operation of said other of the outdoor unit in the range of the target load factor.
According to the operation control device for an air conditioner according to the first aspect of the invention, the air conditioner operation state adjustment unit maintains the air conditioner selected by the air conditioner selection unit and controllable to the air conditioner operation state in the continuous operation state. Adjust the air-conditioning operation within the target load factor range. For this reason, the air conditioner operating state adjusting unit continuously adjusts the air conditioner so that the air conditioner is operated in the range of the target load factor that can maintain the air conditioner in the continuous operating state. The air conditioner adjusted to the operation state does not continue the intermittent operation state. As a result, the air conditioner can be prevented from continuing the operation of switching from the stopped state to the operating state during the intermittent operation state, and therefore consumed to start the air conditioner when switching from the stopped state to the operating state. An increase in power to be generated can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in the amount of power consumed by the air conditioner as the power consumed to activate the air conditioner is suppressed.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the air conditioner operation state adjusting unit is an arbitrary unit that performs air-conditioning operation at a load factor lower than the lower limit value of the range of the target load factor in the selected air conditioner selected by the air conditioner selecting unit. When it is determined that there is an air conditioner, control for stopping the air conditioning operation of the arbitrary air conditioner is performed. For this reason, the air conditioner operation state adjustment unit performs control to stop the air conditioner operation of any air conditioner that is determined to perform the air conditioner operation at a load factor that is lower than the lower limit value of the target load factor range. It is possible to prevent the machine from going out of the target load factor range and entering an intermittent operation state.
Further, the air conditioner operation state adjustment unit compensates the air conditioning capacity of the arbitrary air conditioner with another air conditioner different from the arbitrary air conditioner in the selected air conditioner, and Air-conditioning operation is controlled within the range of the target load factor. For this reason, even when the air conditioning operation of the arbitrary air conditioner is stopped, the air conditioner operation state adjusting unit causes the other air conditioner to compensate for the air conditioning capability of the stopped arbitrary air conditioner. By performing the control, it becomes possible to share the air conditioning load of the predetermined space by the other air conditioner. In addition, the air conditioner operation state adjustment unit performs control to perform air conditioning operation of the other air conditioner within the range of the target load factor, so that the other air conditioner operates intermittently outside the target load factor range. It is possible to prevent the situation from occurring.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the air conditioner operation control apparatus for controlling the air conditioning operation of a plurality of air conditioners for air-conditioning a predetermined space, the plurality of air conditioners are configured in an indoor unit provided in the predetermined space. An air conditioning load calculation unit that calculates an air conditioning load in the predetermined space based on a current consumption of a connected outdoor unit and an outside air temperature outside the predetermined space, and the air conditioning calculated by the air conditioning load calculation unit An air conditioner selection unit that selects the air conditioner that can be controlled in an air conditioning operation state from among the plurality of air conditioners according to a load, and the air conditioner selected by the air conditioner selection unit is maintained in a continuous operation state An air conditioner operation state adjusting unit that adjusts the air conditioner to operate within a range of target load ratios that can be performed, wherein the air condition load calculating unit calculates the power consumption of the outdoor unit calculated based on the current consumption And said The air conditioning load is read from a characteristic diagram showing a relationship between the air conditioning capacity of the outdoor unit for each air temperature, and the air conditioner selection unit divides the read air conditioning load by the maximum air conditioning capacity value of the outdoor unit The load factor of the outdoor unit is calculated, and at least some of the outdoor units constituting the plurality of air conditioners have different air conditioning capabilities, and the air conditioner operating state adjustment unit In the selected air conditioner that is the air conditioner selected by the air conditioner selecting unit , the air conditioner is operated at a load factor at which the load factor calculated by the air conditioner selecting unit is lower than the lower limit value of the target load factor range. when the first selection outdoor unit constituting one selected air conditioner is determined to exist, the air conditioning capability of different other outdoor unit from said first selected outdoor unit among the selected air conditioner, the first selection by compensating the outdoor unit, the first election The outdoor unit and the other outdoor units perform respective control of air conditioning operation in the range of the target load factor, the air conditioner operating state adjusting unit, in said selected air conditioner, calculated by the air conditioner selection unit When it is determined that there is a second selected outdoor unit that constitutes the second selected air conditioner that performs air conditioning operation at a load factor that exceeds the upper limit value of the target load factor range, the second selected outdoor unit The air conditioning capacity is compensated by another outdoor unit different from the second selected outdoor unit in the selected air conditioner, and the second selected outdoor unit and the other outdoor unit are each within the range of the target load factor. It is characterized by performing control for air conditioning operation.
According to the invention of claim 2 , the air conditioner operation state adjustment unit determines that there is a first selected air conditioner that performs an air conditioner operation at a load factor lower than a lower limit value of the target load factor range in the selected air conditioner. In this case, the first selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner are compensated for by the first selected air conditioner to compensate for the air conditioning capability of the selected air conditioner different from the first selected air conditioner. The air conditioner is controlled in the range of the target load factor. For this reason, the air conditioner operating state adjustment unit causes the first selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner to perform the above-described predetermined air condition by causing the first selected air conditioner to compensate the air conditioning capability of the other air conditioner. It becomes possible to share the air conditioning load of the space. In addition, the air conditioner operation state adjustment unit performs control for air-conditioning operation of the first selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner in the range of the target load factor, respectively, thereby the first selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner. It is possible to prevent the air conditioner from going out of the target load factor range and being in an intermittent operation state.
Furthermore, when the air conditioner operation state adjustment unit determines that there is a second selected air conditioner that performs air conditioning operation at a load factor that exceeds the upper limit value of the target load factor range in the selected air conditioner, The air conditioning capacity of the selected air conditioner is compensated by another air conditioner different from the second selected air conditioner in the selected air conditioner, and the second selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner Control to perform air-conditioning operation in each range. For this reason, the air conditioner operation state adjusting unit compensates the air conditioning capacity of the second selected air conditioner with the other air conditioner, and the second selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner perform the predetermined space. It becomes possible to share the air conditioning load. In addition, the air conditioner operation state adjustment unit performs control to perform air conditioning operation of the second selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner within the range of the target load rate, respectively, and thereby the second selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner are controlled. It is possible to prevent the air conditioner from going out of the target load factor range and being in an intermittent operation state.

The invention according to claim 3, in claim 1, comprising a blower driving control signal generator for generating a blower driving control signal for controlling to drive the fan of the indoor unit, the air conditioner operating state adjusting unit, the arbitrary When performing control to stop the air conditioning operation of the outdoor unit, the blower operation control signal generation unit transmits the blower operation control signal to the blower of the indoor unit constituting the arbitrary air conditioner. And
According to the invention of claim 3 , when the air conditioner operation state adjustment unit performs control to stop the air conditioning operation of the arbitrary outdoor unit , the fan operation control signal generation unit causes the fan of the indoor unit to be operated. A blower operation control signal for performing control is transmitted to the blower of the indoor unit constituting the arbitrary air conditioner. For this reason, by operating the blower of the indoor unit by the blower operation control signal, the blower can circulate the air in the predetermined space. Therefore, by circulating the air in the predetermined space, it is possible to distribute the air conditioned in the space into the space. Thereby, since it can suppress that a temperature difference arises in the said space, it can suppress that the temperature in this space becomes uniform, and the comfort in the said space falls.

An operation control method for an air conditioner according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is the operation control method for an air conditioner that controls the air conditioning operation of a plurality of air conditioners that air-condition a predetermined space. An air conditioning load calculating step for calculating an air conditioning load in the predetermined space based on a current consumption of an outdoor unit connected to an indoor unit provided in the space and a temperature of outside air outside the predetermined space; and the air conditioning load In accordance with the air conditioning load calculated in the calculating step, an air conditioner selection step for selecting the air conditioner that can be controlled in an air conditioning operation state from among the plurality of air conditioners, and the air conditioner selected in the air conditioner selection step. It comprises a air conditioner operating condition adjustment step of adjusting to the air conditioning operation in a range of the target load factor capable of maintaining the machine in a continuous operation state, and the air conditioning load calculating step Reads the air conditioning load from a characteristic diagram showing the relationship between the power consumption of the outdoor unit calculated based on the current consumption and the air conditioning capability of the outdoor unit for each temperature of the outdoor air, and the air conditioning unit selection step includes: The read air conditioning load is divided by the maximum air conditioning capacity value of the outdoor unit to calculate the load factor of the outdoor unit, and the air conditioner operating state adjustment step includes the air conditioning selected in the air conditioner selection step. Any outdoor unit that constitutes an arbitrary air conditioner that performs air-conditioning operation at a load factor in which the load factor calculated in the air conditioner selection step is lower than the lower limit value of the target load factor range among the selected air conditioners that are air conditioners If it is determined that an air conditioner is present, control is performed to stop the air conditioning operation of the arbitrary outdoor unit, and the air conditioner operation state adjustment step includes adjusting the air conditioning capacity of the arbitrary outdoor unit to the selected empty unit. Compensating to other outdoor units constituting another air conditioner different from the arbitrary air conditioner in the unit, and performing control to perform the air conditioning operation of the other outdoor units within the range of the target load factor And
According to the air conditioner operation control method according to the invention of claim 4 , the air conditioner operation state adjustment step maintains the air conditioner that is selected by the air conditioner selection step and can be controlled to the air conditioner operation state in the continuous operation state. Adjust the air-conditioning operation within the target load factor range. For this reason, by adjusting the air conditioner operation state adjustment step so that the air conditioner is operated in the range of the target load factor that can maintain the air conditioner in the continuous operation state, the air conditioner operation state adjustment step continuously The air conditioner adjusted to the operation state does not continue the intermittent operation state. As a result, the air conditioner can be prevented from continuing the operation of switching from the stopped state to the operating state during the intermittent operation state, and therefore consumed to start the air conditioner when switching from the stopped state to the operating state. An increase in power to be generated can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in the amount of power consumed by the air conditioner as the power consumed to activate the air conditioner is suppressed.

According to the invention of claim 4 , the air conditioner operation state adjustment step is an arbitrary operation in which the air conditioning operation is performed at a load factor lower than a lower limit value of the range of the target load factor in the selected air conditioner selected by the air conditioner selection step. When it is determined that there is an air conditioner, control for stopping the air conditioning operation of the arbitrary air conditioner is performed. For this reason, the air conditioning operation state adjustment step performs control to stop the air conditioning operation of any air conditioner that is determined to perform the air conditioning operation at a load factor that is lower than the lower limit value of the target load factor range. It is possible to prevent the machine from going out of the target load factor range and entering an intermittent operation state.
Further, in the air conditioner operation state adjustment step, the air conditioning capacity of the arbitrary air conditioner is compensated by another air conditioner different from the arbitrary air conditioner in the selected air conditioner, and the other air conditioner is adjusted. Air-conditioning operation is controlled within the range of the target load factor. For this reason, even when the air conditioning operation of the arbitrary air conditioner is stopped, the air conditioner operation state adjustment step causes the other air conditioner to compensate the air conditioning capability of the stopped arbitrary air conditioner. By performing the control, it becomes possible to share the air conditioning load of the predetermined space by the other air conditioner. In addition, the air conditioner operation state adjustment step performs control to perform air conditioning operation of the other air conditioner within the range of the target load factor, so that the other air conditioner operates intermittently outside the target load factor range. It is possible to prevent the situation from occurring.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the air conditioner operation control method for controlling the air conditioning operation of a plurality of air conditioners for air-conditioning a predetermined space, the plurality of air conditioners are configured and the indoor unit provided in the predetermined space is provided. An air conditioning load calculating step for calculating an air conditioning load in the predetermined space based on a current consumption of the connected outdoor unit and an outside air temperature outside the predetermined space, and the air conditioning calculated by the air conditioning load calculating step An air conditioner selection step for selecting the air conditioner that can be controlled to an air conditioning operation state from among the plurality of air conditioners according to a load, and the air conditioner selected by the air conditioner selection step is maintained in a continuous operation state. An air conditioner operation state adjustment step for adjusting the air conditioner to operate within a range of a target load factor that can be performed, wherein the air conditioning load calculation step is based on the current consumption The air conditioning load is read from a characteristic diagram showing a relationship between the calculated power consumption of the outdoor unit and the air conditioning capability of the outdoor unit for each temperature of the outside air, and the air conditioning unit selection step includes the read air conditioning load Dividing by the maximum air conditioning capacity value of the outdoor unit to calculate the load factor of the outdoor unit , at least some of the outdoor units constituting the plurality of air conditioners have different air conditioning capabilities, In the air conditioner operation state adjustment step, the load factor calculated by the air conditioner selection step is a lower limit of the range of the target load factor among the selected air conditioners selected by the air conditioner selection step. constituting the first selection air conditioner for air-conditioning operation at a load factor of less than a value when it is determined that the first selection outdoor unit is present, other different from the first selected outdoor unit among the selected air conditioner The air-conditioning capacity of the outer machine, by compensating the first selection outdoor unit, the first selecting outdoor unit and the other outdoor units performs control to air conditioning operation respectively in the range of the target load factor, the air conditioner operation In the state adjustment step, a second selected air conditioner that performs air-conditioning operation at a load factor in which the load factor calculated in the air conditioner selection step exceeds an upper limit value of the target load factor range is configured in the selected air conditioner. to when it is determined that the second selection outdoor unit is present, the air conditioning capability of the second selection outdoor units, by compensating the different other outdoor unit and the second selected outdoor unit among the selected air conditioner The second selected outdoor unit and the other outdoor unit are controlled to perform air-conditioning operation within the range of the target load factor, respectively.
According to the invention of claim 5 , in the air conditioner operation state adjustment step, it is determined that there is a first selected air conditioner that performs an air conditioner operation at a load factor lower than a lower limit value of the target load factor range in the selected air conditioner. In this case, the first selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner are compensated for by the first selected air conditioner to compensate for the air conditioning capability of the selected air conditioner different from the first selected air conditioner. The air conditioner is controlled in the range of the target load factor. For this reason, the air conditioner operation state adjustment step causes the first selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner to perform the above-described predetermined air condition by causing the first selected air conditioner to compensate the air conditioning capability of the other air conditioner. It becomes possible to share the air conditioning load of the space. In addition, the air conditioner operation state adjustment step performs control for air-conditioning operation of the first selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner in the range of the target load rate, respectively, thereby the first selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner. It is possible to prevent the air conditioner from going out of the target load factor range and being in an intermittent operation state.
Further, the air conditioner operation state adjustment step may include a second selection air conditioner that determines that there is a second selected air conditioner that performs air conditioning operation at a load factor that exceeds the upper limit value of the target load factor range in the selected air conditioner. The air conditioning capacity of the selected air conditioner is compensated by another air conditioner different from the second selected air conditioner in the selected air conditioner, and the second selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner Control to perform air-conditioning operation in each range. For this reason, the air conditioner operation state adjustment step causes the second air conditioner to compensate for the air conditioning capacity of the second selected air conditioner, thereby allowing the second selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner to perform the predetermined space. It becomes possible to share the air conditioning load. In addition, the air conditioner operation state adjustment step performs control for air-conditioning operation of the second selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner in the range of the target load rate, respectively, thereby performing the second selected air conditioner and the other air conditioner. It is possible to prevent the air conditioner from going out of the target load factor range and being in an intermittent operation state.

The invention of claim 6 comprises the fan operation control signal generation step for generating a fan operation control signal for performing control for operating the fan of the indoor unit according to claim 4 , wherein the arbitrary operation is performed by the air conditioner operation state adjustment step. When performing control for stopping the air conditioning operation of the outdoor unit, the blower operation control signal generation step transmits the blower operation control signal to the blower of the indoor unit constituting the arbitrary air conditioner. And
According to the invention of claim 6 , when the air conditioner operation state adjustment step performs control to stop the air conditioner operation of the arbitrary outdoor unit , the fan of the indoor unit is operated by the fan operation control signal generation step. A blower operation control signal for performing control is transmitted to the blower of the indoor unit constituting the arbitrary air conditioner. For this reason, by operating the blower of the indoor unit by the blower operation control signal, the blower can circulate the air in the predetermined space. Therefore, by circulating the air in the predetermined space, it is possible to distribute the air conditioned in the space into the space. Thereby, since it can suppress that a temperature difference arises in the said space, it can suppress that the temperature in this space becomes uniform, and the comfort in the said space falls.

  According to the air conditioner operation control apparatus of the present invention, the air conditioner operation state adjustment unit can maintain the air conditioner selected by the air conditioner selection unit and controllable to the air conditioner operation state in the continuous operation state. Adjust the air-conditioning operation within the target load factor range. For this reason, the air conditioner operating state adjusting unit continuously adjusts the air conditioner so that the air conditioner is operated in the range of the target load factor that can maintain the air conditioner in the continuous operating state. The air conditioner adjusted to the operation state does not continue the intermittent operation state. As a result, the air conditioner can be prevented from continuing the operation of switching from the stopped state to the operating state during the intermittent operation state, and therefore consumed to start the air conditioner when switching from the stopped state to the operating state. An increase in power to be generated can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in the amount of power consumed by the air conditioner as the power consumed to activate the air conditioner is suppressed.

  According to the operation control method for an air conditioner of the present invention, the air conditioner that is selected in the air conditioner selection step and can be controlled to the air conditioner operation state can be maintained in the continuous operation state. Adjust the air-conditioning operation within the target load factor range. For this reason, by adjusting the air conditioner operation state adjustment step so that the air conditioner is operated in the range of the target load factor that can maintain the air conditioner in the continuous operation state, the air conditioner operation state adjustment step continuously The air conditioner adjusted to the operation state does not continue the intermittent operation state. As a result, the air conditioner can be prevented from continuing the operation of switching from the stopped state to the operating state during the intermittent operation state, and therefore consumed to start the air conditioner when switching from the stopped state to the operating state. An increase in power to be generated can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in the amount of power consumed by the air conditioner as the power consumed to activate the air conditioner is suppressed.

<Embodiment 1>
Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioning system 1 according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. FIG. 1 illustrates an air conditioning system 1 that air-conditions a one-story store 2. The air conditioning system 1 includes an indoor unit 10 (10A to 10L), an outdoor unit 20 (20A to 20F), and a central control device 30. Here, as the indoor unit 10 and the outdoor unit 20, those using an EHP (Electric Heat Pump) system are illustrated. The store 2 is an example of the predetermined space of the present invention, and the central control device 30 is an example of the operation control device of the present invention.

  As illustrated, twelve indoor units 10 </ b> A to 10 </ b> L are installed in the store 2. Each of the indoor units 10A to 10L includes an indoor fan 11. As will be described later, the indoor fan 11 is used to circulate the air in the store 2. The indoor units 10A to 10D are connected to the two outdoor units 20A and 20B by a signal line L1. In addition, the indoor units 10A to 10D are connected to the two outdoor units 20A and 20B by refrigerant piping and electric wiring (not shown).

  The indoor units 10E to 10H are connected to the two outdoor units 20C and 20D by a signal line L2. The indoor units 10I to 10L are connected to the two outdoor units 20E and 20F by a signal line L3. Between the indoor units 10E to 10H and the outdoor units 20C and 20D and between the indoor units 10I to 10L and the outdoor units 20E and 20F, it is the same as that between the indoor units 10A to 10D and the outdoor units 20A and 20B described above. In addition, refrigerant piping and electrical wiring (not shown) are provided.

  The outdoor unit 20A includes a compressor 21A, an inverter circuit 22A, an outdoor fan 23A, and a heat exchanger (not shown). In addition, the outdoor unit 20B includes a compressor 21B, an inverter circuit 22B, an outdoor fan 23B, and a heat exchanger (not shown). Each of the compressors 21A and 21B compresses a refrigerant (for example, an alternative chlorofluorocarbon refrigerant), and the heat exchanger changes the compressed refrigerant from a gas to a liquid, and then passes through the refrigerant pipe to the indoor units 10A to 10A. The liquid is discharged toward 10D. Each outdoor fan 23A, 23B releases heat generated when the refrigerant changes from gas to liquid to the outside of each outdoor unit 20A, 20B.

  The inverter circuit 22A is connected to the compressor 21A and the signal line L1, and the inverter circuit 22B is connected to the compressor 21B and the signal line L1. As will be described later, a frequency adjustment signal for changing the frequency generated by the inverter circuits 22A and 22B is transmitted to the inverter circuit 22A and the inverter circuit 22B by the central control device 30 through the signal line L1. The operation frequency of the drive motor that drives the compressors 21A and 21B is changed by the inverter circuits 22A and 22B. As a result, the rotational speed of the drive motor is variably adjusted, and the capacities of the compressors 21A and 21B change. Thereby, the air conditioning capability of the indoor units 10A to 10D is variably adjusted.

  The outdoor unit 20C includes a compressor 21C, an inverter circuit 22C, and an outdoor fan 23C. In addition, the outdoor unit 20D includes a compressor 21D, an inverter circuit 22D, and an outdoor fan 23D. As with the inverter circuits 22A and 22B, the inverter circuits 22C and 22D variably adjust the air conditioning capabilities of the indoor units 10E to 10H. Similarly to the outdoor fans 23A and 23B, the outdoor fans 23C and 23D release the heat to the outside of the outdoor units 20C and 20D.

  The outdoor unit 20E includes a compressor 21E, an inverter circuit 22E, and an outdoor fan 23E. In addition, the outdoor unit 20F includes a compressor 21F, an inverter circuit 22F, and an outdoor fan 23F. Similarly to the inverter circuits 22A and 22B, the inverter circuits 22E and 22F variably adjust the air conditioning capability of the indoor units 10I to 10L. Similarly to the outdoor fans 23A and 23B, the outdoor fans 23E and 23F release the heat to the outside of the outdoor units 20E and 20F.

  A current detector CT1 is connected to the outdoor unit 20A, and a current detector CT2 is connected to the outdoor unit 20B. Each current detector CT1, CT2 detects the current value consumed in each outdoor unit 20A, 20B. Both current detectors CT1 and CT2 are connected to the central controller 30 by a signal line L5. Thereby, the data of the current value detected by each of the current detectors CT1 and CT2 is transmitted to the central controller 30 through the signal line L5. As described above, in this embodiment, current values consumed by the outdoor units 20A and 20B are detected, not current values consumed by the indoor units 10A to 10D. The reason for this is to detect the current value consumed by the indoor units 10 to 10D because the number of installed outdoor units 20A and 20B (2 units) is smaller than the number of installed indoor units 10 to 10D (4 units). This is because the number of current detectors necessary for detecting the current value consumed by the outdoor units 20A and 20B can be reduced compared to the number of necessary current detectors installed. The current detected by each of the current detectors CT1 and CT2 is an example of current consumption of the outdoor unit of the present invention.

  The thermistor 25A is installed on the side surface of the outdoor unit 20A, and the thermistor 25B is installed on the side surface of the outdoor unit 20B. The thermistors 25A and 25B detect the temperature outside the store 2 (outside air temperature). Both thermistors 25A and 25B are connected to the central controller 30 by a signal line L6. Thereby, the temperature data detected by each thermistor 25A, 25B is transmitted to the central controller 30 through the signal line L6.

  A current detector CT3 is connected to the outdoor unit 20C, and a current detector CT4 is connected to the outdoor unit 20D. Both current detectors CT3 and CT4 are connected to the central controller 30 by a signal line L7. Thereby, similarly to the case where the current detectors CT1 and CT2 are used, the data of the current values detected by the current detectors CT3 and CT4 are transmitted to the central control device 30 through the signal line L7.

  Similarly to the outdoor units 20A and 20B, the thermistor 25C is installed on the side surface of the outdoor unit 20C, and the thermistor 25D is installed on the side surface of the outdoor unit 20D. Both thermistors 25C and 25D are connected to the central controller 30 by a signal line L8. Thereby, similarly to the case where the thermistors 25A and 25B are used, the temperature data detected by the thermistors 25C and 25D is transmitted to the central controller 30 through the signal line L8.

  A current detector CT5 is connected to the outdoor unit 20E, and a current detector CT6 is connected to the outdoor unit 20F. Both current detectors CT5 and CT6 are connected to the central controller 30 by a signal line L9. Thereby, similarly to the case where the current detectors CT1 and CT2 are used, the data of the current values detected by the current detectors CT5 and CT6 are transmitted to the central control device 30 through the signal line L9.

  Similarly to the outdoor units 20A and 20B, the thermistor 25E is installed on the side surface of the outdoor unit 20E, and the thermistor 25F is installed on the side surface of the outdoor unit 20F. Both thermistors 25E and 25F are connected to the central controller 30 by a signal line L10. Accordingly, similarly to the case where the thermistors 25A and 25B are used, the temperature data detected by the thermistors 25E and 25F is transmitted to the central controller 30 through the signal line L10.

  The central control device 30 includes a microcomputer 31, an operation unit 32, and a display unit 33. The microcomputer 31 includes an arithmetic processing unit 31A and a signal generation unit 31B. The arithmetic processing unit 31A is connected to the signal generation unit 31B. The signal generator 31 is connected to the in-house LAN 5. The in-house LAN 5 is connected to the signal lines L1 to L3. In addition to the in-house LAN 5, the signal generators 31B are connected to the signal lines L5 to L10, respectively. The signal generator 31A generates various operation control signals based on the calculation result of the calculation processor 31A.

  The operation unit 32 is connected to the arithmetic processing unit 31A. The operation unit 32 includes a power switch and a mode switch. Here, it can switch to normal operation mode or energy saving operation mode by operating a mode changeover switch. The power switch is operated when the operation unit 32 is switched to an on state or an off state. The operation unit 32 further includes a room temperature setting button for setting the room temperature in the store 2.

  The display unit 33 is connected to the signal generation unit 31B. The display unit 33 includes, for example, current values detected by the current detectors CT1 to CT6, temperature values detected by the thermistors 25A to 25F, and operations of the indoor unit 10A and the outdoor unit 20A. The state, the value of the temperature in the store 2, etc. are displayed. Here, the signal generation unit 31B generates an image signal that displays the operation state of the indoor unit 10A, the outdoor unit 20A, and the like, based on the current values detected by the current detectors CT1 to CT6. By this image signal, an image indicating the operation state is displayed on the display unit 33. Further, for example, by installing a thermistor at an appropriate position in the store 2, the temperature in the store 2 is displayed on the display unit 33 based on the temperature data detected by the thermistor.

  Next, the air conditioning operation (cooling operation in this case) executed by the microcomputer 31 when the mode switching switch is used to switch to the energy saving operation mode will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the arithmetic processing unit 31A of the microcomputer 31 performs a data acquisition process (S10), an air conditioning load first calculation process (S20), an air conditioner load factor first calculation process (S30), and an air conditioner. Unit operation number determination processing (S40), determination of whether there is an outdoor unit that stops cooling operation (S50), indoor fan operation control processing (S60), compressor drive motor control processing (S70), Determination (S80) as to whether or not the operation unit 32 is in an off state is sequentially executed.

  In the data acquisition process (S10), a process of acquiring temperature data outside the store 2 and current value data consumed in each of the outdoor units 20A to 20F is executed. Here, the temperature data and the current value data are input to the arithmetic processing unit 31A through the signal lines L5 to L10. Thereafter, the arithmetic processing unit 31A executes a process of storing the temperature data and the current value data in a data storage unit (not shown). The current value data changes in accordance with the temperature value set by the room temperature setting button. An example of the data storage unit is a RAM (Random Access Memory).

  In the air conditioning load first calculation process (S20), a process of calculating the air conditioning load of the store 2 is executed based on the temperature data and the current value data stored in the data storage unit. In the following description, four indoor units 10A to 10D and two outdoor units 20A and 20B are used for group 1, four indoor units 10E to 10H and two outdoor units 20C and 20D are used for group 2 and four units. The group 3 is formed by the indoor units 10I to 10L and the two outdoor units 20E and 20F, respectively.

  In the present embodiment, the two outdoor units 20A and 20B are exemplified as those having a rated (maximum) air conditioning cooling capacity of 56 kW and 20 horsepower. In the air conditioning load first calculation process (S20), first, the outdoor unit 20A that forms the group 1 by the multiplication process of the current value detected by the current detectors CT1 and CT2 and the voltage value (here, 200V), A power consumption value of 20B is calculated. Here, the total power consumption value of the outdoor units 20A and 20B is 8.5 kW by the multiplication process.

  Subsequently, in the first air conditioning load calculation process (S20), by using a characteristic diagram (see FIG. 3) showing the relationship between the power consumption of the outdoor unit and the air conditioning capability of the outdoor unit, the outdoor units 20A and 20B Calculate the air conditioning capacity. When the characteristic diagram shown in FIG. 3 is used, the temperature data is read from the data storage unit by the arithmetic processing unit 31A. Here, it was detected that the temperature outside the store 2 was 30 ° C. based on the temperature data. The temperature values (20 ° C., 25 ° C., 30 ° C., 35 ° C.) in FIG.

  Then, using the characteristic diagram (see FIG. 3) showing the relationship between the power consumption of the outdoor unit when the temperature outside the store 2 is 30 ° C. and the air conditioning capacity of the outdoor unit, the above sum is obtained from the characteristic diagram. The air conditioning capacity values (30 kW) of the outdoor units 20A and 20B with respect to the power consumption value (8.5 kW) are read. Here, the total power consumption value of 8.5 kW corresponds to about 47% of the rated (maximum) power consumption value (18 kW), and the air conditioning cooling capacity value of 30 kW is the rated (maximum) air conditioning cooling capacity value (56 kW). This is equivalent to about 54%.

  In the air conditioning load first calculation process (S20), the outdoor forming the group 2 from the characteristic diagram shown in FIG. 3 by the same process as the case of reading the air conditioning capability of the outdoor units 20A and 20B forming the group 1 described above. The air conditioning capability values of the machines 20C and 20D and the air conditioning capability values of the outdoor units 20E and 20F forming the group 3 are read. Here, the air conditioning capability values of the outdoor units 20C and 20D were 32 kW, and the air conditioning capability values of the outdoor units 20E and 20F were 28 kW. When calculating the total power consumption value (9 kW) of the outdoor units 20C and 20D, the current value detected by the current detectors CT3 and CT4 is used to calculate the total power consumption value of the outdoor units 20E and 20F ( When calculating (8 kW), the current values detected by the current detectors CT5 and CT6 were used.

  In the air conditioning load first calculation process (S20), finally, the air conditioning capability value (30 kW) of the outdoor units 20A and 20B, the air conditioning capability value (32 kW) of the outdoor units 20C and 20D, and the air conditioning capability of the outdoor units 20E and 20F. The value (28 kW) is added. The result of this addition processing becomes the air conditioning load of the store 2. Here, the air conditioning load was 90 kW (= 30 kW + 32 kW + 28 kW). The air conditioning load first calculation process (S20) is an example of the air conditioning load calculation step of the present invention, and the arithmetic processing unit 31A is an example of the air conditioning load calculation unit of the present invention.

  In the air conditioner load factor first calculation process (S30), the process of calculating the load factor of the outdoor unit that can perform the cooling operation is executed according to the air condition load calculated by the air condition load first calculation process (S20). To do. In the air conditioner load factor first calculation process (S30), first, the air conditioning load (90 kW) is set to the number of outdoor units that can perform the cooling operation (in this case, the outdoor units 20A and 20B and the outdoor unit). A process of dividing by three sets of the units 20C and 20D and the outdoor units 20E and 20F is executed. Thereby, the air-conditioning load (here 30 kW) shared by a set of outdoor units is calculated. The number of outdoor units that can perform the cooling operation is an example of the selected air conditioner of the present invention. The air conditioner load factor first calculation process (S30) is an example of an air conditioner selection step of the present invention, and the arithmetic processing unit 31A is an example of an air conditioner selection unit of the present invention.

  Subsequently, in the air conditioner load factor first calculation process (S30), a process of dividing the air conditioning load (30 kW) shared by a set of outdoor units by the rated (maximum) air conditioning cooling capacity value (56 kW) is executed. The result of this division processing is the load factor of a set of outdoor units. Here, the load factor of one set of outdoor units was about 54% (= 30 kW ÷ 56 kW). Thereafter, in the air conditioner load factor first calculation process (S30), a process of storing the load factor data of a set of outdoor units in the data storage unit is executed.

  In the outdoor units 20A and 20B exemplified in this embodiment, the compressor 21 (21A to 21F) of each outdoor unit 20 (20A to 20F) is efficiently continuously operated in a range where the load factor is 50% to 80%. Can be maintained. On the other hand, in the outdoor units 20A and 20B exemplified in the present embodiment, the compressor 21 (21A to 21F) repeats the intermittent operation state particularly when the load factor is in the range of 20% to 40%.

  In the air conditioner operation number determination process (S40), the number of air conditioners required to share the air conditioning load (here 90 kW) after adjusting the load factor in the range of 50% to 80%. Execute the process to determine. As shown in FIG. 4, in the air conditioner operation number determination process (S40), it is determined whether or not the load factor falls below 50% based on the load factor data stored in the data storage unit. (S41). In the present embodiment, as described above, since the load factor is about 54%, it is determined in S41 that the load factor does not fall below 50%.

  In S41, when it is determined that the load factor does not fall below 50%, it is determined whether or not the load factor exceeds 80% (S43). In the present embodiment, as described above, since the load factor is about 54%, it is determined in S43 that the load factor does not exceed 80%. Thereafter, as shown in the figure, an outdoor unit selection number retention determination process (S44) is executed. In the outdoor unit selection number retention determination process (S44), the number of outdoor units required to share the air conditioning load (here 90 kW) is selected in the air conditioner load factor first calculation process (S30). Set to the number of groups (here, 3 groups). After execution of the outdoor unit selection number retention determination process (S44), the air conditioner operation number determination process (S40) ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S41 that the load factor is less than 50%, an outdoor unit selection number decrease determination process (S42) is executed. In the outdoor unit selection number reduction determination process (S42), the number of outdoor units required to share the air conditioning load is reduced from the number of groups selected in the air conditioner load factor first calculation process (S30). The process of setting the new number of sets is executed. Specifically, a process of controlling the cooling operation of the outdoor units 20 forming any one of the groups 1 to 3 to a stopped state is executed. At this time, the load factor of the newly set number of outdoor units is adjusted to a range of 50% to 80%, and the shutdown outdoor unit identification data for identifying the reduced outdoor units is Processing to be stored in the data storage unit is executed. The number of outdoor units scheduled to be shared by the number of outdoor units selected in the first calculation process (S30) of the air conditioner load factor is determined from the selected number of sets by the outdoor unit selection number reduction determination process (S42). It will be shared (compensated) to the reduced number of new air conditioners.

  After the outdoor unit selection number decrease determination process (S42) is executed, the air conditioner operation number determination process (S40) ends. The range where the load factor is 50% to 80% is an example of the range of the target load factor of the present invention. An outdoor unit whose load factor is determined to be less than 50% is an arbitrary air conditioner of the present invention. It is an example.

  If it is determined in S43 that the outdoor unit is in cooling operation with a high capacity exceeding 80%, an outdoor unit selection number increase determination process (S45) is executed. In the outdoor unit selection number increase determination process (S45), the number of air conditioners required to share the air conditioning load is increased from the number selected in the air conditioner load factor first calculation process (S30). The process of setting the new number of sets is executed. Specifically, a process of controlling the outdoor units 20 forming any one of the groups 1 to 3 to be switched from the stopped state to the cooling operation state is executed. At this time, the load factor of the newly set number of outdoor units is adjusted to a range of 50% to 80%. The number of outdoor units selected in the air conditioner load factor first calculation process (S30) is shared by the outdoor unit selection number increase determination process (S45) to avoid the outdoor unit from performing cooling operation with high capacity. Therefore, the air conditioning capacity that is difficult to increase is increased from the selected number of sets, and the newly set number of outdoor units is assigned (compensated).

  After execution of the outdoor unit selection number increase determination process (S45), the air conditioner operation number determination process (S40) ends. The air conditioner operation number determination process (S40) is an example of the air conditioner operation state adjustment step of the present invention, and the arithmetic processing unit 31A is an example of the air conditioner operation state adjustment unit of the present invention.

  After the air conditioner operation number determination process (S40), it is determined whether there is an outdoor unit that stops the cooling operation based on the operation stop outdoor unit identification data stored in the data storage unit (S50). If it is determined in S50 that there is an outdoor unit that stops the cooling operation, the indoor fan operation control process (S60) is executed. In the indoor fan operation control process (S60), a process for operating the indoor fan 11 of the indoor unit connected to the outdoor unit that stops the cooling operation is executed.

  In the indoor fan operation control process (S60), first, the arithmetic processing unit 31A transmits a trigger signal to the signal generation unit 31B. Thereafter, the signal generator 31B generates an indoor fan operation control signal in response to the trigger signal. The indoor fan operation control signal is used to control the indoor fan 11 to operate.

  In addition, in the indoor fan operation control process (S60), the signal generator 31B is connected to the in-house LAN 5 and the in-house LAN 5 for the indoor fan 11 of the indoor unit connected to the outdoor unit that stops the cooling operation. The processing for transmitting the indoor fan operation control signal is executed through the signal line. Thereby, the indoor fan 11 that has received the indoor fan operation control signal can circulate the cooled air in the store 2. When the outdoor unit whose cooling operation has been stopped is cooled by the above-described outdoor unit selection number increase determination process (S45), the outdoor unit selection number increase determination process (S45) Execute the process to reset. The indoor fan operation control process (S60) is an example of the blower operation control signal generation step of the present invention, and the signal generation unit 31B is an example of the blower operation control signal generation unit of the present invention. The indoor fan operation control signal is an example of the blower operation control signal of the present invention, and the indoor fan 11 is an example of the blower of the present invention.

  If it is determined in S50 that there is no outdoor unit that stops the cooling operation, the indoor fan operation control process (S60) is not executed, and the following compressor drive motor control process (S70) is executed.

  In the compressor drive motor control process (S70), the rotational speed of the drive motor of the compressor 21 (21A-21F) of each outdoor unit 20 (20A-20F) to be cooled is adjusted, and the capacity of the compressors 21A-21F is adjusted. Execute processing to change Here, the frequency adjustment signal described above is transmitted by the signal generation unit 31B to the inverter circuits 22A to 22E through the in-house LAN 5 and the signal lines L1 to L3. With this frequency adjustment signal, the operating frequency of each drive motor of each of the compressors 21A to 21F is set to 65 Hz. The number of rotations of the drive motor is set to a predetermined value according to the operating frequency, and the capacity of the compressors 21A to 21F is shared with the air conditioning load calculated by the first air conditioning load first calculation process (S20). Set to a possible value.

  After the compressor drive motor control process (S70), it is determined by the power switch of the operation unit 32 whether or not the operation unit 32 is switched to the off state. Here, the arithmetic processing unit 31A is in the off state by determining that it has not received an on state identification signal transmitted from the operation unit 32 and identifying that the operation unit 32 is in the on state. Judging.

  If it is determined in S80 that the operation unit 32 is in the off state, all the processes and determinations described above are terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined in S80 that the operation unit 32 is in the ON state, the above-described processes (S10 to S40, S60, S70) and the above-described determinations (S50, S80) are repeatedly executed.

<Effect of Embodiment 1>
In the air conditioning system 1 and the operation control method thereof according to the first embodiment, the number of outdoor units 20 selected in the air conditioner load factor first calculation process (S30) and capable of cooling operation is determined as the number of outdoor unit selection reduction determination process ( The load factor is set to the number of sets of the outdoor units 20 adjusted in the range of 50% to 80% by S42), outdoor unit selection number retention determination process (S44), and outdoor unit selection number increase determination process (S45). For this reason, the range (50%) in which the load factor of the number of sets of outdoor units 20 set by each process (S42, S44, S45) can maintain the compressor 21 of the outdoor units 20 in a continuous operation state. Therefore, the intermittent operation state described above does not continue in the compressor 21. Thereby, it can prevent continuing the operation | movement from which the compressor 21 switches from a stop state to an operation state in the case of an intermittent operation state. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in the amount of power consumed to start the compressor 21 when switching from the stopped state to the operating state.

In the air conditioner operation number determination process (S40), the number of outdoor units 20 selected in the air conditioner load factor first calculation process (S30) and capable of cooling operation is determined in S41, When it is determined that there are a number of outdoor units whose cooling rate is lower than 50%, the number of sets whose load factor is less than 50% is determined by the outdoor unit selection number reduction determination process (S42). The cooling operation of the outdoor unit is stopped, and the number of sets of the outdoor units 20 that are selected in the above processing (S30) and can perform the cooling operation is reduced. As a result, the cooling operation of the outdoor unit that is likely to be in the intermittent operation state when the load factor falls below 50% can be stopped, so that the outdoor unit can be prevented from being in the intermittent operation state. it can.
Furthermore, in the outdoor unit selection number reduction determination process (S42), as described above, the air conditioning capacity that the number of outdoor units selected in the air conditioner load factor first calculation process (S30) was scheduled to share, The new set number of air conditioners reduced from the selected set is assigned (compensated), and the load factor of the new set of outdoor units is adjusted to a range of 50% to 80%. For this reason, even if it is a case where the cooling operation of the outdoor unit of a set whose load factor is less than 50% is stopped, the cooling operation is stopped by the outdoor unit selection number decrease determination process (S42). The air conditioning capacity that was planned to be shared by the set of outdoor units can be shared (compensated) by the new set of outdoor units. Therefore, the air conditioning load of the store 2 can be shared by the new number of outdoor units. In addition, by adjusting the load factor of the new number of outdoor units to a range of 50% to 80% by the outdoor unit selection number decrease determination process (S42), the new number of outdoor units It is possible to prevent the outdoor unit from being in an intermittent operation state outside the range (50% to 80%) in which the compressor can be maintained in the continuous operation state.

  In addition, if it is determined in S50 that there is an outdoor unit that stops the cooling operation, the indoor unit connected to the outdoor unit that stops the cooling operation is subjected to the indoor fan operation control process (S60). A process of transmitting an indoor fan operation control signal to the indoor fan 11 through the internal LAN 5 and the signal line connected to the internal LAN 5 is executed. For this reason, the indoor fan 11 that has received the indoor fan operation control signal can circulate the cooled air in the store 2. Therefore, by circulating the cooled air in the store 2, the cooled air can be distributed in the store 2. Thereby, since it can suppress that a temperature difference arises in the store 2, it can prevent that the comfortable environment in the store 2 deteriorates by making the temperature in the store 2 uniform.

<Embodiment 2>
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, the same configurations and the same processes as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is simplified. As shown in FIG. 5, the arithmetic processing unit 31A includes a data acquisition process (S10), an air conditioning load second calculation process (S20A), an air conditioner load factor second calculation process (S30A), and an air conditioner load. A rate adjustment process (S46), a compressor drive motor control process (S70), and a determination as to whether or not the operation unit 32 is in an off state (S80) are sequentially executed.

  In the air conditioning load second calculation process (S20A), the air conditioning load of the store 2 is calculated based on the temperature data and the current value data as in the air conditioning load first calculation process (S20) of the first embodiment. Execute the process. In this embodiment, the rated (maximum) air conditioning cooling capacity of each outdoor unit 20 forming each of the groups 1 to 3 described above is different from each other. Here, as the two outdoor units 20A and 20B, the rated (maximum) air conditioning cooling capacity is 56 kW, equivalent to 20 horsepower, and as the two outdoor units 20C and 20D, the rated (maximum) air conditioning cooling capacity is 45 kW, 16 As the two outdoor units 20E and 20F corresponding to horsepower, those having a rated (maximum) air conditioning cooling capacity of 28 kW and corresponding to 10 horsepower are illustrated.

  In the air conditioning load second calculation process (S20A), the total power consumption value of the outdoor units 20A and 20B is 10 kW by the multiplication process similar to the air conditioning load first calculation process (S20) described above. Furthermore, by the multiplication process, the total power consumption value of the outdoor units 20C and 20D was 9 kW, and the total power consumption value of the outdoor units 20E and 20F was 5 kW.

  Subsequently, in the air conditioning load second calculation process (S20A), similarly to the air conditioning load first calculation process (S20) described above, from the characteristic diagram (first characteristic diagram) when the temperature shown in FIG. The air conditioning capacity values of the outdoor units 20A and 20B forming the group 1 are read. Here, the air conditioning capability values of the outdoor units 20A and 20B were 35 kW.

  Further, in the second air conditioning load calculation process (S20A), a second characteristic diagram different from the first characteristic diagram is used, and the air conditioning capacity values of the outdoor units 20C and 20D forming the group 2 are read from the second characteristic diagram. . The second characteristic diagram shows the relationship between the power consumption of the outdoor units 20C and 20D and the air conditioning capacity of the outdoor units 20C and 20D when the temperature outside the store 2 is 30 ° C. Here, the air conditioning capability values of the outdoor units 20C and 20D were 33 kW.

  In addition, in the air conditioning load second calculation process (S20A), the air conditioning capacity values of the outdoor units 20E and 20F forming the group 3 are read from a third characteristic diagram different from the first and second characteristic diagrams. The third characteristic diagram shows the relationship between the power consumption of the outdoor units 20E and 20F and the air conditioning capacity of the outdoor units 20E and 20F when the temperature outside the store 2 is 30 ° C. Here, the air conditioning capability values of the outdoor units 20E and 20F were 22 kW.

  In the air conditioning load second calculation process (S20A), finally, an addition process is executed in the same manner as the air conditioning load first calculation process (S20) described above. Here, the air conditioning load is 90 kW (= 35 kW + 33 kW + 22 kW) by the addition process. The air conditioning load second calculation process (S20A) is an example of the air conditioning load calculation step of the present invention.

  After the air conditioning load second calculation process (S20A), the air conditioner load factor second calculation process (S30A) is executed. In the air conditioner load factor second calculation process (S30A), the air conditioner load shared by a set of outdoor units is calculated in the same manner as the air conditioner load factor first calculation process (S30) of the first embodiment. Here, the air conditioning load was 30 kW (= 90 kW ÷ 3 pairs [Group 1 to Group 3]). The air conditioner load factor second calculation process (S30A) is an example of the air conditioner selection step of the present invention.

  Subsequently, in the air conditioner load factor second calculation process (S30A), the load factor of one set of outdoor units is calculated in the same manner as the above-described air conditioner load factor first calculation process (S30). Here, the load factor of the outdoor units 20A and 20B was about 54% (= 30 kW ÷ 56 kW). Moreover, the load factor of the outdoor units 20C and 20D was about 67% (= 30 kW ÷ 45 kW), and the load factor of the outdoor units 20E and 20F was about 110% (= 30 kW ÷ 28 kW). Thereafter, in the air conditioner load factor second calculation process (S30A), a process of storing the data of each load factor in the data storage unit is executed.

  After the air conditioner load factor second calculation process (S30A), an air conditioner load factor adjustment process (S46) is executed. In the air conditioner load factor adjustment process (S46), the groups 1 to 3 are formed after adjusting the load factor of the pair of outdoor units 20 forming the groups 1 to 3 to the range of 50% to 80%, respectively. The process which makes said one set of outdoor unit 20 share said air-conditioning load (90 kW) is performed.

  As shown in FIG. 6, in the air conditioner load factor adjustment process (S46), one of the load factors is 50% based on the data of each load factor stored in the data storage unit. It is judged whether it is less than (S46A). In this embodiment, as described above, each load factor (about 54%, about 67%, about 110%) exceeds 50%. For this reason, in S46A, it is determined that the load factor does not fall below 50%.

  In S46A, when it is determined that the load factor does not fall below 50%, it is determined whether or not the load factor exceeds 80% (S46C). In this embodiment, since the load factor of the outdoor units 20E and 20F is about 110%, it is determined that the load factor exceeds 80% in S46C. The load factor of 80% is an example of the upper limit value of the target load factor range of the present invention. The outdoor units 20E and 20F are examples of the second selected air conditioner of the present invention, and the outdoor units 20A to 20D are examples of other air conditioners different from the second selected air conditioner of the present invention.

  If it is determined in S46C that the load factor exceeds 80%, the outdoor unit load factor decrease determination process (S46E) is executed. In the outdoor unit load factor decrease determination process (S46E), the load factor of the outdoor units 20E and 20F is decreased, and the load factor of each set of the outdoor units 20 (20A to 20F) including the outdoor units 20E and 20F is 50%. A process of adjusting to a range of ˜80% is executed. Here, the load factor of the outdoor units 20E and 20F is reduced from about 110% to 70%, the load factor of the outdoor units 20A and 20B (about 54%), and the load factor of the outdoor units 20C and 20D (about 67%). ) Is changed to 70%. Thereby, the outdoor units 20A to 20D share (compensate) the air conditioning capability that cannot be shared by the outdoor units 20E and 20F. Moreover, by adjusting the load factor of each set of outdoor units 20 (20A to 20F) including the outdoor units 20E and 20F to a range of 50% to 80%, as described above, each of the outdoor units 20A to 20F The compressors 21A to 21F can be maintained in a continuous operation state.

The total value (90.3 kW) of the air conditioning capacity of all the outdoor units 20A to 20F exceeds the above air conditioning load (90 kW) by the process of reducing and changing each load factor. For this reason, it becomes possible to make all the outdoor units 20A-20F share an air-conditioning load. After the execution of the outdoor unit load factor decrease determination process (S46E), the air conditioner load factor adjustment process (S46) ends. In addition, the said total value is calculated | required by the following formula.
90.3kW = 56kW × 0.7 + 45kW × 0.7 + 28kW × 0.7

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S46A that any one of the load factors is below 50%, an outdoor unit load factor increase determination process (S46B) is executed. In the outdoor unit load factor increase determination process (S46B), the load factor of the outdoor unit 20 whose load factor is less than 50% is increased, and each set of outdoor units 20 (20A) including the outdoor unit 20 whose load factor has been increased. ˜20F) is adjusted to a range of 50% to 80%. By this process, as with the above-described outdoor unit load factor decrease determination process (S46E), all the outdoor units 20A to 20F can share the air conditioning load, and the compressors 21A to 21A of the outdoor units 20A to 20F can be shared. 21F can be maintained in a continuous operation state. In addition, the above-described processing (S46B) causes the outdoor unit 20 having a load factor of less than 50% to share (compensate) the air conditioning capacity that was planned to be shared by the outdoor units other than the outdoor unit 20. . After execution of the outdoor unit load factor increase determination process (S46B), the air conditioner load factor adjustment process (S46) ends. The load factor of 50% is an example of the lower limit value of the target load factor range of the present invention. The outdoor unit 20 with a load factor lower than 50% is an example of the first selected air conditioner of the present invention. The outdoor unit 20 that shares the air conditioning capacity with respect to the outdoor unit 20 with a load factor lower than 50% is: It is an example of the other outdoor unit different from the 1st selection outdoor unit of this invention.

  In S46C, when it is determined that any one of the load factors does not exceed 80%, that is, when each load factor is in the range of 50% to 80%, the outdoor unit A load factor retention determination process (S46D) is executed. In the outdoor unit load factor holding determination process (S46D), a process of setting each load factor in the range of 50% to 80% as a load factor for causing the outdoor units 20A to 20F to perform an air conditioning operation is executed. After execution of the outdoor unit load factor retention determination process (S46D), the air conditioner load factor adjustment process (S46) ends. The air conditioner load factor adjustment process (S46) is an example of the air conditioner operation state adjustment step of the present invention.

  After the air conditioner load factor adjustment process (S46), the above-described compressor drive motor control process (S70) and the determination as to whether or not the operation unit 32 is in the off state (S80) are executed. Regarding the compressor drive motor control process (S70) in the present embodiment, the compressor drive motor control process (S70) of the first embodiment except that the value of the operation frequency of the drive motor is different from that of the first embodiment. The same processing is executed.

<Effect of Embodiment 2>
In the air conditioning system 1 and the operation control method thereof according to the second embodiment, as described above, when it is determined in S46A that one of the load factors is less than 50%, the outdoor unit load factor increases. With the determination process (S46B), the load factor of the outdoor unit 20 whose load factor is less than 50% is increased, and the load of each set of outdoor units 20 (20A to 20F) including the outdoor unit 20 whose load factor has been increased. A process of adjusting the rate to a range of 50% to 80% is executed. As a result, the outdoor unit 20 having a load factor of less than 50% is shared (compensated) with the air-conditioning capability that was planned to be shared by the outdoor units other than the outdoor unit 20. For this reason, the outdoor unit load factor increase determination process (S46B) shares (compensates) the air conditioning capacity that was planned to be shared by the outdoor units other than the outdoor unit 20 with respect to the outdoor unit 20 whose load factor is less than 50%. By doing so, each set of the outdoor units 20 (20A to 20F) including the outdoor unit 20 whose load factor is increased can share the air conditioning load of the store 2. In addition, the load factor of each set of outdoor units 20 (20A to 20F) including the outdoor unit 20 whose load factor is increased is adjusted to a range of 50% to 80% by the outdoor unit load factor increase determination process (S46B). By executing the processing to be performed, each set of the outdoor units 20 (20A to 20F) can maintain the compressor 21 (21A to 21F) of the outdoor unit 20 (20A to 20F) in a continuous operation state. It is possible to prevent the intermittent operation state from being out of the range (50% to 80%).
Further, as described above, when it is determined in S46C that the load factors of the outdoor units 20E and 20F out of the load factors exceed 80%, the outdoor unit load factor decrease determination process (S46E) While reducing the load factor of 20E and 20F from about 110% to 70%, the load factor of the outdoor units 20A and 20B (about 54%) and the load factor of the outdoor units 20C and 20D (about 67%) are respectively 70. Execute processing to change to%. Thereby, the outdoor units 20A to 20D share (compensate) the air conditioning capability that cannot be shared by the outdoor units 20E and 20F. For this reason, the outdoor units 20E and 20F are assigned (compensated) to the outdoor units 20A to 20D with the air conditioning capacity that cannot be shared by the outdoor units 20E and 20F by the outdoor unit load factor decrease determination process (S46E). Each set of outdoor units 20 (20A to 20F) including can share the air conditioning load of the store 2. In addition, the process of adjusting the load factor of each set of outdoor units 20 (20A to 20F) including the outdoor units 20E and 20F to a range of 50% to 80% is executed by the outdoor unit load factor reduction determination process (S46E). Thus, the range in which each set of outdoor units 20 (20A to 20F) can maintain the compressor 21 (21A to 21F) of the outdoor units 20 (20A to 20F) in a continuous operation state (50 % To 80%) can be prevented from being intermittently operated.

  The present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above, and can be implemented by appropriately changing a part of the configuration without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, unlike the above-described embodiment, indoor units and outdoor units that form four or more groups may be installed in the store 2 to cool the store 2.

  Further, unlike the above-described embodiment, one outdoor unit 20 may be connected to four indoor units 10 in order to form one group. In the above-described embodiment, four indoor units are connected to two outdoor units. However, five or more indoor units are connected to two outdoor units, and cooling in the store 2 is performed. Also good.

  Furthermore, an air conditioning system is configured by mixing a group having outdoor units with the same rated (maximum) air conditioning cooling capacity and horsepower and a group having outdoor units with different rated (maximum) air conditioning cooling capacity and horsepower. Also good.

  In addition, the rated (maximum) air-conditioning cooling capacity and horsepower of the outdoor unit are not limited to those exemplified in the above-described embodiment, but are changed to the rated (maximum) air-conditioning cooling capacity and horsepower capable of implementing the present invention. May be. When the present invention is implemented by using an outdoor unit having a rated (maximum) air conditioning cooling capacity or horsepower different from that of the above-described embodiment, the outdoor unit is efficiently operated according to the operation characteristics of the outdoor unit. The range of the load factor that can be maintained in the continuous operation state may change to a range different from the above range of 50% to 80%. In addition, the present invention can be applied not only to the cooling operation shown in the above-described embodiments but also to the heating operation.

It is a schematic structure figure of an air-conditioning system of an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. It is a flowchart regarding the process which the central control apparatus of the air conditioning system of Embodiment 1 performs. It is a characteristic view which shows the relationship between the power consumption of an outdoor unit, and the air-conditioning capability of this outdoor unit. It is a flowchart regarding the air-conditioner operation number determination process which the central control apparatus performs. It is a flowchart regarding the process which the central control apparatus of the air conditioning system of Embodiment 2 performs. It is a flowchart regarding the air-conditioner load factor adjustment process which the central control apparatus performs.

Explanation of symbols

  2. Store, 10 (10A-10L) ... Indoor unit, 11 ... Indoor fan, 20 (20A-20F) ... Outdoor unit, 30 ... Central control unit, 31A ... Arithmetic processing unit, 31B ... Signal generator

Claims (6)

In the air conditioner operation control device that controls the air conditioning operation of a plurality of air conditioners that air-condition a predetermined space,
The air conditioning load of the predetermined space is determined based on the current consumption of the outdoor units connected to the indoor units configured in the predetermined space and the temperature of the outside air outside the predetermined space. An air conditioning load calculation unit to calculate,
In accordance with the air conditioning load calculated by the air conditioning load calculating unit, an air conditioner selecting unit that selects the air conditioner that can be controlled in an air conditioning operation state from among the plurality of air conditioners;
An air conditioner operating state adjusting unit that adjusts the air conditioner selected by the air conditioner selecting unit to perform an air conditioning operation within a range of a target load factor that can be maintained in a continuous operation state ,
The air conditioning load calculation unit reads the air conditioning load from a characteristic diagram showing a relationship between the power consumption of the outdoor unit calculated based on the current consumption and the air conditioning capability of the outdoor unit for each temperature of the outside air, The air conditioner selection unit calculates the load factor of the outdoor unit by dividing the read air conditioning load by the maximum air conditioning capacity value of the outdoor unit,
The air conditioner operating state adjusting unit includes the selected air conditioner selected by the air conditioner selecting unit, wherein the load factor calculated by the air conditioner selecting unit is within a range of the target load factor. When it is determined that there is an arbitrary outdoor unit that constitutes an arbitrary air conditioner that performs air conditioning operation with a load factor lower than the lower limit value, while performing control to stop the air conditioning operation of the arbitrary outdoor unit,
The air conditioner operation state adjustment unit compensates the air conditioning capacity of the arbitrary outdoor unit for other outdoor units constituting another air conditioner different from the arbitrary air conditioner in the selected air conditioner, An operation control device for an air conditioner that performs control to perform air conditioning operation of the other outdoor unit within the range of the target load factor . In the air conditioner operation control device that controls the air conditioning operation of a plurality of air conditioners that air-condition a predetermined space,
The air conditioning load of the predetermined space is determined based on the current consumption of the outdoor units connected to the indoor units configured in the predetermined space and the temperature of the outside air outside the predetermined space. An air conditioning load calculation unit to calculate,
In accordance with the air conditioning load calculated by the air conditioning load calculating unit, an air conditioner selecting unit that selects the air conditioner that can be controlled in an air conditioning operation state from among the plurality of air conditioners;
An air conditioner operating state adjusting unit that adjusts the air conditioner selected by the air conditioner selecting unit to perform an air conditioning operation within a range of a target load factor that can be maintained in a continuous operation state,
The air conditioning load calculation unit reads the air conditioning load from a characteristic diagram showing a relationship between the power consumption of the outdoor unit calculated based on the current consumption and the air conditioning capability of the outdoor unit for each temperature of the outside air, The air conditioner selection unit calculates the load factor of the outdoor unit by dividing the read air conditioning load by the maximum air conditioning capacity value of the outdoor unit,
At least some of the outdoor units constituting the plurality of air conditioners have different air conditioning capabilities,
The air conditioner operating state adjusting unit includes the selected air conditioner selected by the air conditioner selecting unit, wherein the load factor calculated by the air conditioner selecting unit is within a range of the target load factor. When it is determined that there is a first selected outdoor unit that constitutes the first selected air conditioner that performs air conditioning operation at a load factor that is lower than the lower limit value, the other selected unit is different from the first selected outdoor unit. The first selected outdoor unit is compensated for the air conditioning capability of the outdoor unit, and the first selected outdoor unit and the other outdoor unit are controlled to perform the air conditioning operation within the range of the target load factor, respectively.
The air conditioner operation state adjustment unit performs a second air conditioning operation in the selected air conditioner at a load factor at which the load factor calculated by the air conditioner selection unit exceeds an upper limit value of the target load factor range. When it is determined that there is a second selected outdoor unit that constitutes the air conditioner, another outdoor unit having an air conditioning capability of the second selected outdoor unit that is different from the second selected outdoor unit in the selected air conditioner. The air conditioner operation control device is configured to perform air conditioning operation of the second selected outdoor unit and the other outdoor unit within the range of the target load factor . A blower operation control signal generating unit for generating a blower operation control signal for controlling the operation of the blower of the indoor unit;
When the air conditioner operation state adjustment unit performs control to stop the air conditioning operation of the arbitrary outdoor unit, the blower operation control signal generation unit causes the blower of the indoor unit constituting the arbitrary air conditioner to The air conditioner operation control device according to claim 1, wherein the blower operation control signal is transmitted . In an air conditioner operation control method for controlling air conditioning operations of a plurality of air conditioners that air-condition a predetermined space,
The air conditioning load of the predetermined space is determined based on the current consumption of the outdoor units connected to the indoor units configured in the predetermined space and the temperature of the outside air outside the predetermined space. An air conditioning load calculating step to calculate,
In accordance with the air conditioning load calculated in the air conditioning load calculating step, an air conditioner selection step for selecting the air conditioner that can be controlled in an air conditioning operation state from among the plurality of air conditioners;
An air conditioner operation state adjustment step for adjusting the air conditioner selected in the air conditioner selection step so that the air conditioner operation is performed in a range of a target load factor that can be maintained in a continuous operation state,
The air conditioning load calculating step reads the air conditioning load from a characteristic diagram showing a relationship between the power consumption of the outdoor unit calculated based on the current consumption and the air conditioning capability of the outdoor unit for each temperature of the outside air, The air conditioner selection step calculates the load factor of the outdoor unit by dividing the read air conditioning load by the maximum air conditioning capacity value of the outdoor unit,
In the air conditioner operation state adjustment step, the load factor calculated by the air conditioner selection step is within the range of the target load factor among the selected air conditioners selected by the air conditioner selection step. When it is determined that there is an arbitrary outdoor unit that constitutes an arbitrary air conditioner that performs air conditioning operation with a load factor lower than the lower limit value, while performing control to stop the air conditioning operation of the arbitrary outdoor unit,
In the air conditioner operation state adjustment step, the air conditioning capacity of the arbitrary outdoor unit is compensated by another outdoor unit that constitutes another air conditioner different from the arbitrary air conditioner in the selected air conditioner, An operation control method for an air conditioner, wherein the other outdoor unit is controlled to perform an air conditioning operation within a range of the target load factor. In an air conditioner operation control method for controlling air conditioning operations of a plurality of air conditioners that air-condition a predetermined space,
The air conditioning load of the predetermined space is determined based on the current consumption of the outdoor units connected to the indoor units configured in the predetermined space and the temperature of the outside air outside the predetermined space. An air conditioning load calculating step to calculate,
In accordance with the air conditioning load calculated in the air conditioning load calculating step, an air conditioner selection step for selecting the air conditioner that can be controlled in an air conditioning operation state from among the plurality of air conditioners;
An air conditioner operation state adjustment step for adjusting the air conditioner selected in the air conditioner selection step so that the air conditioner operation is performed in a range of a target load factor that can be maintained in a continuous operation state ,
The air conditioning load calculating step reads the air conditioning load from a characteristic diagram showing a relationship between the power consumption of the outdoor unit calculated based on the current consumption and the air conditioning capability of the outdoor unit for each temperature of the outside air, The air conditioner selection step calculates the load factor of the outdoor unit by dividing the read air conditioning load by the maximum air conditioning capacity value of the outdoor unit,
At least some of the plurality of air conditioners have different air conditioning capabilities,
In the air conditioner operation state adjustment step, the load factor calculated by the air conditioner selection step is within the range of the target load factor among the selected air conditioners selected by the air conditioner selection step. When it is determined that there is a first selected outdoor unit that constitutes the first selected air conditioner that performs air conditioning operation at a load factor that is lower than the lower limit value, the other selected unit is different from the first selected outdoor unit. The first selected outdoor unit is compensated for the air conditioning capability of the outdoor unit, and the first selected outdoor unit and the other outdoor unit are controlled to perform the air conditioning operation within the range of the target load factor, respectively.
The air conditioner operation state adjustment step includes a second selection in the selected air conditioner that performs the air conditioning operation at a load factor at which the load factor calculated by the air conditioner selection step exceeds an upper limit value of the target load factor range. When it is determined that there is a second selected outdoor unit that constitutes the air conditioner, another outdoor unit having an air conditioning capability of the second selected outdoor unit that is different from the second selected outdoor unit in the selected air conditioner. The air conditioner operation control method is characterized in that the second selected outdoor unit and the other outdoor unit are controlled to perform an air conditioning operation within the range of the target load factor . A fan operation control signal generating step for generating a fan operation control signal for controlling the operation of the fan of the indoor unit,
When performing the control to stop the air conditioning operation of the arbitrary outdoor unit by the air conditioner operation state adjusting step, the blower operation control signal generating step causes the blower of the indoor unit constituting the arbitrary air conditioner to be performed. The air conditioner operation control method according to claim 4 , wherein the blower operation control signal is transmitted .

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