JP6273844B2 - Air conditioning system controller - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a controller for an air conditioning system.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is an air conditioning system including a plurality of switching units for switching the operation state of a load. For example, an air conditioning system disclosed in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. Hei 5-149646) has a switching valve that is supplied with a driving voltage in a branch unit disposed between an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. A plurality of switching units including relays for switching between opening and closing are provided.

  However, in Patent Document 1, there is no difference in control between the case where the drive voltage is supplied to any one of the switching units and the case where the drive voltage is supplied to a plurality of switching units. As a result, when a plurality of switching units are driven at the same time, depending on the situation, the instantaneous current in the unit may be assumed to be a value that cannot be ignored for safety reasons.

  Then, this invention is providing the controller of the air conditioning system which suppresses instantaneous current.

  A controller of an air conditioning system according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of power generation units, a plurality of loads, and a switch that electrically connects the power generation unit and any one of the loads by being set to an on state. The air conditioner system controller is provided with a voltage supply unit and a switching control unit. The voltage supply unit supplies the first drive voltage and the second drive voltage to each switching unit. The first drive voltage is a voltage necessary for switching the switch from the off state to the on state. The second drive voltage is a voltage necessary for holding the switch after the switch is turned on. The switching control unit instructs the timing of supplying the first drive voltage or the second drive voltage to the voltage supply unit. The switching control unit causes the voltage supply unit to supply the first drive voltage, and causes the second drive voltage to be supplied instead of the first drive voltage after a predetermined first time has elapsed after the start of supply of the first drive voltage. Thus, the switch is set to the ON state in the switching unit. The switching control unit executes the first control when the switch is set to the on state in the plurality of switching units. In the first control, the switching control unit instructs to shift the timing for supplying the first driving voltage for each switching unit, completes the supply of the first driving voltage to one switching unit, and supplies the second driving voltage. By starting the supply of the first drive voltage to any of the other switching units after the start, the supply of the first drive voltage to the plurality of switching units is suppressed at the same time.

  In the controller of the air conditioning system according to the first aspect of the present invention, the switching control unit executes the first control when the switches are set to the on state in the plurality of switching units, and the first drive in the first control. The timing for supplying the voltage is instructed by shifting for each switching unit, and after the supply of the first drive voltage to one switching unit is completed and the supply of the second drive voltage is started, the first to the other switching unit is By starting the supply of one drive voltage, the supply of the first drive voltage to a plurality of switching units at the same time is suppressed. Thereby, even if it is a case where the switch of a some switching part is set to an ON state simultaneously, it is suppressed that a 1st drive voltage is simultaneously supplied with respect to a some switching part. Therefore, the instantaneous current is suppressed.

  A load refers to a unit that performs a function by being supplied with an electric current. For example, an actuator such as an electromagnetic valve, an electric valve or a motor mounted in an air conditioning system, a control circuit for each actuator, a power supply circuit Or a signal transmission circuit or the like.

  The controller of the air conditioning system which concerns on the 2nd viewpoint of this invention is a controller of the air conditioning system which concerns on a 1st viewpoint, Comprising: A voltage supply part outputs 1st pulse signal with respect to each switching part, and is 1st drive Supply voltage. The voltage supply unit supplies the second drive voltage to each switching unit by intermittently outputting the second pulse signal. The second pulse signal is a pulse signal having a shorter pulse width than the first pulse signal.

  In the controller of the air conditioning system according to the second aspect of the present invention, the voltage supply unit supplies the first drive voltage by outputting the first pulse signal to each switching unit, and the pulse width is larger than the first pulse signal. The second driving voltage is supplied by intermittently outputting a second pulse signal having a short period. In this way, the first drive voltage and the second drive voltage are supplied by PWM control, so that a decrease in energy efficiency is suppressed.

  The controller of the air conditioning system which concerns on the 3rd viewpoint of this invention is a controller of the air conditioning system which concerns on a 2nd viewpoint, Comprising: A switching control part outputs a PWM carrier with respect to a voltage supply part. The PWM carrier is a signal that determines the timing of outputting the second pulse signal for each switching unit. The switching control unit executes the second control when supplying the second drive voltage to the plurality of switching units. In the second control, the switching control unit adjusts the PWM carrier, and outputs the second pulse signal for any of the other switching units during a period in which the second pulse signal for one switching unit is not output.

  In the controller of the air conditioning system according to the third aspect of the present invention, the switching control unit executes the second control when supplying the second drive voltage to the plurality of switching units, and in the second control, the PWM is performed. The carrier is adjusted so that the second pulse signal for any of the other switching units is output during the period when the second pulse signal for one switching unit is not output. Thereby, even if it is a case where the 2nd drive voltage is supplied to a plurality of change parts simultaneously, it is controlled that a 2nd pulse signal is outputted to a plurality of change parts simultaneously. Therefore, the instantaneous current is further suppressed.

  The controller of the air conditioning system according to the fourth aspect of the present invention is the controller of the air conditioning system according to the third aspect, and the switching control unit is configured so that the phase of each PWM carrier corresponding to each switching unit in the second control is The PWM carrier is adjusted so that the number of switching units provided in the air conditioning system is shifted by a number obtained by dividing 360 degrees.

  In the controller of the air conditioning system according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in the second control, the switching control unit is configured such that the phase of each PWM carrier corresponding to each switching unit is 360 in terms of the number of switching units provided in the air conditioning system. The PWM carrier is adjusted so that it deviates by a frequency obtained by dividing the degree. Thereby, the instantaneous current is further suppressed.

  The controller of the air conditioning system according to the fifth aspect of the present invention is the controller of the air conditioning system according to the third aspect, and the switching control unit has a phase of each PWM carrier corresponding to each switching unit in the second control. The PWM carrier is adjusted so as to be shifted by a frequency obtained by dividing 360 ° by the number of switching units to which the second pulse signal is output.

  In the controller of the air conditioning system according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the switching control unit is configured such that, in the second control, the phase of each PWM carrier corresponding to each switching unit is the number of switching units that output the second pulse signal. The PWM carrier is adjusted so as to deviate by a number other than 360 degrees. Thereby, the instantaneous current is further suppressed.

  According to the controller of the air conditioning system according to the first aspect of the present invention, the first drive voltage is simultaneously supplied to the plurality of switching units even when the switches of the plurality of switching units are simultaneously set to the ON state. It is suppressed. Therefore, the instantaneous current is suppressed.

  According to the controller of the air conditioning system according to the second aspect of the present invention, a decrease in energy efficiency is suppressed.

  According to the controller of the air conditioning system according to the third to fifth aspects of the present invention, the instantaneous current is further suppressed.

1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a load driving device to which a controller according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. The schematic diagram which shows the schematic structure of a PWM signal distribution unit, and the signal main force from a PWM control part. The schematic block diagram of a PWM control part. The flowchart which showed the flow of operation | movement in a timing adjustment part. The timing chart which shows an example of the flow of operation | movement of each part in a load drive device. The enlarged view of VI part in FIG.

  Hereinafter, a controller 70 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are specific examples of the present invention and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the scope of the invention.

(1) Load driving device 10
FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a load driving device 10 including a controller 70. The load driving device 10 is arranged to drive various loads in the air conditioning system. In the present embodiment, the load driving device 10 is connected to the first load 91, the second load 92, and the third load 93, respectively, and the operation of each load is switched by switching the supply and interruption of the current to each load. Is controlling.

  Here, the first load 91, the second load 92, and the third load 93 are, for example, actuators such as electromagnetic valves, electric valves or motors mounted in the air conditioning system, control circuits for each actuator, power supply circuits, or signals. A transmission circuit or the like.

  The load driving device 10 is connected to an external power source 100 such as a commercial power source and is supplied with power. The load driving apparatus 10 mainly includes a power generation unit 20, a first switching unit 30, a second switching unit 40, a third switching unit 50, a level shifter 60, and a controller 70.

(2) Details of load driving device 10 (2-1) Power generation unit 20
The power supply generation unit 20 is a unit for converting the AC voltage Vac input from the external power supply 100 into a DC voltage Vdc. The power generation unit 20 mainly includes a rectification unit 21 and a smoothing capacitor 22.

  Although not shown, the power generation unit 20 and the external power supply 100 are connected via, for example, an outlet in the house.

(2-1-1) Rectifier 21
The rectifying unit 21 is configured in a bridge shape by four diodes D1a, D1b, D2a, and D2b. Specifically, the diodes D1a and D1b and D2a and D2b are respectively connected in series. The cathode terminals of the diodes D1a and D2a are both connected to the plus side terminal of the smoothing capacitor 22 and function as the positive side output terminal of the rectifying unit 21. The anode terminals of the diodes D1b and D2b are connected to the minus side terminal of the smoothing capacitor 22 and function as the negative side output terminal of the rectifying unit 21. A connection point between the diodes D1a and D1b and a connection point between the diodes D2a and D2b are connected to the external power supply 100, respectively. In other words, the connection point between the diodes D1a and D1b and the connection point between the diodes D2a and D2b each serve as an input to the rectifying unit 21.

  The rectifying unit 21 having such a configuration rectifies the AC voltage Vac input from the external power supply 100 and supplies it to the smoothing capacitor 22.

(2-1-2) Smoothing capacitor 22
The smoothing capacitor 22 is, for example, a capacitor such as an electrolytic capacitor, a ceramic capacitor, or a tantalum capacitor. The smoothing capacitor 22 has one end connected to the positive output terminal of the rectifying unit 21 and the other end connected to the negative output terminal of the rectifying unit 21. The smoothing capacitor 22 smoothes the voltage rectified by the rectifying unit 21. The smoothed voltage is a DC voltage Vdc with low ripple, and is applied to the first relay 31, the second relay 41, and the third relay 51 connected to the subsequent stage of the smoothing capacitor 22, that is, the output side. Further, the other end side of the smoothing capacitor 22 becomes a reference potential (GND).

(2-2) First switching unit 30, second switching unit 40, third switching unit 50
The first switching unit 30, the second switching unit 40, and the third switching unit 50 are disposed between the power generation unit 20 and the first load 91, the second load 92, or the third load 93. Switching between supplying and interrupting current to the load. The first switching unit 30, the second switching unit 40, and the third switching unit 50 are connected in parallel with the power generation unit 20.

  The first switching unit 30 includes a first relay 31 and a first switching element 30 a that switches between supply and interruption of current to the first relay 31. The second switching unit 40 includes a second relay 41 and a second switching element 40 a that switches between supply and interruption of current to the second relay 41. The third switching unit 50 includes a third relay 51 and a third switching element 50 a that switches between supply and interruption of current to the third relay 51.

(2-2-1) First relay 31, second relay 41, third relay 51
The first relay 31, the second relay 41, and the third relay 51 are, for example, electromagnetic relays. Each of the first relay 31, the second relay 41, and the third relay 51 has a contact portion (switch), and is supplied with a predetermined voltage (hereinafter, the voltage is referred to as “first drive voltage”). Thus, the contact portion is switched from the off (open) state to the on (closed) state. The first relay 31, the second relay 41, and the third relay 51 have a predetermined voltage that is lower than the first drive voltage (hereinafter referred to as “the voltage”) after each contact portion is switched on. (Referred to as “second driving voltage”), the contact portion is kept on. Thereby, the contact part of each relay is set to an “on state”.

  The first relay 31 is connected in parallel with the power generation unit 20 and is connected in series with the first load 91, and the first relay coil 31b connected in parallel with the first contact 31a. And a first free-wheeling diode 31c connected in parallel with the first relay coil 31b. The first relay 31 is in an off state in which the first contact portion 31a is opened when the first relay coil 31b is not energized. When the first relay coil 31b is energized and excited, the first relay 31 closes the first contact portion 31a and is turned on. As a result, the power generation unit 20 and the first load 91 are short-circuited, and current is supplied to the first load 91.

  The second relay 41 is connected in parallel with the power generation unit 20 and is connected in series with the second load 92. The second relay coil 41b is connected in parallel with the second contact part 41a. And a second free-wheeling diode 41c connected in parallel with the second relay coil 41b. The second relay 41 is in an off state in which the second contact portion 41a is opened when the second relay coil 41b is not energized. When the second relay coil 41b is energized and excited, the second relay 41 is turned on with the second contact portion 41a closed. As a result, the power generation unit 20 and the second load 92 are short-circuited, and current is supplied to the second load 92.

  The third relay 51 is connected in parallel with the power supply generation unit 20 and is connected in series with the third load 93. The third relay coil 51b is connected in parallel with the third contact portion 51a. And a third reflux diode 51c connected in parallel with the third relay coil 51b. The third relay 51 is in an off state in which the third contact portion 51a is opened when the third relay coil 51b is not energized. When the third relay coil 51b is energized and excited, the third relay 51 is turned on with the third contact portion 51a being closed. As a result, the power generation unit 20 and the third load 93 are short-circuited, and current is supplied to the third load 93.

(2-2-2) First switching element 30a, second switching element 40a, third switching element 50a
The first switching element 30a, the second switching element 40a, and the third switching element 50a are semiconductor switches that are turned on when a predetermined voltage is supplied, such as transistors. Each of the first switching element 30a, the second switching element 40a, and the third switching element 50a is connected to the controller 70, and is turned on when a drive voltage is supplied from the controller 70.

  The first switching element 30a is connected in series with the first relay 31 between the first relay 31 and the ground. When the first switching element 30a is turned on, the first relay coil 31b is excited by being supplied with a current.

  The second switching element 40a is connected in series with the second relay 41 between the second relay 41 and the ground. When the second switching element 40a is turned on, the second relay coil 41b is supplied with current and excited.

  The third switching element 50a is connected in series with the third relay 51 between the third relay 51 and the ground. When the third switching element 50a is turned on, the third relay coil 51b is excited by being supplied with a current.

(2-3) Level shifter 60
The level shifter 60 is connected in parallel to the smoothing capacitor 22, and a voltage across the smoothing capacitor 22 (that is, a DC voltage Vdc) is applied. The output of the level shifter 60 is connected to the PWM signal distribution unit 80 and the PWM control unit 90. The level shifter 60 converts the applied DC voltage Vdc into two predetermined voltages V1 and V2 having different values, applies the converted predetermined voltage V1 to the PWM signal distribution unit 80, and applies the predetermined voltage V2 to the PWM control unit. Apply to 90.

  For example, when the DC voltage Vdc is 140V, the level shifter 60 converts the DC voltage Vdc into a voltage V1 of 10V and a voltage V2 of 3V, and a PWM signal distribution unit 80 (described later) or a PWM control unit 90 (described later). ).

(2-4) Controller 70
The controller 70 is a microcomputer including a RAM, a ROM, and a CPU, and controls the operation of the load driving device 10. Further, although not shown, the controller 70 is also connected to a remote controller (hereinafter referred to as a remote controller) as a user interface, and the first switching unit 30 according to a user instruction input via the remote controller. The (first relay 31), the second switching unit 40 (second relay 41) or the third switching unit 50 (third relay 51) is driven, and the state of each load is comprehensively controlled.

  The controller 70 mainly includes a PWM signal distribution unit 80 (corresponding to “voltage supply unit” described in claims) and a PWM control unit 90 (corresponding to “switching control unit” described in claims). Including.

(2-4-1) PWM signal distribution unit 80
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the PWM signal distribution unit 80 and a signal output from the PWM control unit 90.

  The PWM signal distribution unit 80 mainly includes a PWM signal amplifier 80a, a first AND circuit 81 as a pulse signal supply means, a second AND circuit 82, and a third AND circuit 83.

  The PWM signal amplifier 80a amplifies the PWM signal output from the PWM control unit 90. The PWM signal amplifier 80a includes, for example, a PNP transistor and an NPN transistor (not shown). The PWM signal amplifier 80a is supplied with the predetermined voltage V1 from the level shifter 60. When the PWM signal is input (becomes High level), the PWM signal amplifier 80a amplifies and outputs the signal. The PWM signal output from the PWM signal amplifier 80a is distributed to the first AND circuit 81, the second AND circuit 82, and the third AND circuit 83, respectively.

  One input terminal of the first AND circuit 81, the second AND circuit 82, and the third AND circuit 83 is connected to the PWM signal amplifier 80a, and the PWM signal is input thereto. The first AND circuit 81, the second AND circuit 82, and the third AND circuit 83 have the other input terminal connected to the PWM control unit 90, and the first PWM carrier, the second PWM carrier, or the second output from the PWM control unit 90. 3PWM carrier is input.

  The first AND circuit 81 outputs a pulse signal to the first switching element 30a when both the input PWM signal and the first PWM carrier are at a high level. The second AND circuit 82 outputs a pulse signal to the second switching element 40a when both the input PWM signal and the second PWM carrier are at a high level. The third AND circuit 83 outputs a pulse signal to the third switching element 50a when both the input PWM signal and the third PWM carrier are at a high level.

(2-4-2) PWM control unit 90
FIG. 3 is a schematic configuration diagram of the PWM control unit 90. When an instruction is input via the remote controller, the PWM control unit 90 outputs a PWM signal or each PWM carrier in accordance with the instruction. The PWM controller 90 is supplied from the level shifter 60 with the predetermined voltage V2 as a power supply voltage.

  The PWM control unit 90 mainly includes a storage unit 901, an acquisition unit 902, a timing adjustment unit 903, a PWM signal output unit 904, a first PWM carrier output unit 905, a second PWM carrier output unit 906, and a third PWM carrier. And an output unit 907.

(2-4-2-1) Storage unit 901
The storage unit 901 stores a program that defines processing executed by each unit in the PWM control unit 90. The program is updated as appropriate. In addition, when a signal corresponding to a user instruction is output from the remote controller, the storage unit 901 holds the signal in a predetermined storage area.

  The signals output from the remote controller include a first load driving signal that is a signal for operating the first load 91, a second load driving signal that is a signal for operating the second load 92, and a third load. 93 is a third load drive signal that is a signal for operating 93, a first load stop signal that is a signal for stopping the operation of the first load 91, and a signal that is for stopping the operation of the second load 92. 2 load stop signal, and a third load stop signal that is a signal to stop the operation of the third load 93.

(2-4-2-2) Acquisition unit 902
The acquisition unit 902 stores in the storage unit 901 one of the first load drive signal, the second load drive signal, the third load drive signal, the first load stop signal, the second load stop signal, and the third load stop signal. Then, this is acquired and output to the timing adjustment unit 903.

(2-4-2-3) Timing adjustment unit 903
The timing adjustment unit 903 sends a command to each unit according to the signal output from the acquisition unit 902. The timing adjustment unit 903 has a timer function and is configured to be able to measure time.

  The timing adjustment unit 903 executes basic control, first control, or second control depending on the situation. The timing adjustment unit 903 performs basic control when any of the first load drive signal, the second load drive signal, and the third load drive signal is input. The timing adjustment unit 903 executes the first control or the second control in addition to the basic control when two or more of the first load drive signal, the second load drive signal, and the third load drive signal are input. To do. That is, the timing adjustment unit 903 receives one of the first load drive signal, the second load drive signal, and the third load drive signal when another signal is input, or the first load drive signal, When any two or more of the second load driving signal and the third load driving signal are simultaneously input, the first control or the second control is executed in addition to the basic control.

(2-4-2-3-1) Basic Control The timing adjustment unit 903, in the basic control, stops signals corresponding to the input signals (first load stop signal, second load stop signal, or third load stop). A PWM output command for continuously outputting the PWM signal until the signal is input is sent to the PWM signal output unit 904.

  In addition, when the first load drive signal is input, the timing adjustment unit 903 sends an output command for outputting the first PWM carrier to the first PWM carrier output unit 905. More specifically, when the first load drive signal is input, the timing adjustment unit 903 sends a first command for continuously outputting the first PWM carrier until a predetermined time t1 elapses. The predetermined time t1 is a time required for the first contact portion 31a of the first relay 31 to switch from the off state to the on state. The timing adjustment unit 903 intermittently sends a second command for outputting a first PWM carrier having a predetermined pulse width at predetermined intervals when a predetermined time t1 has elapsed after the output of the first command. The pulse width of the first PWM carrier assumed in the second command is a pulse width required for maintaining the ON state after the first contact portion 31a of the first relay 31 is switched to the ON state. Is shorter than the pulse width of the first PWM carrier output continuously. The timing adjustment unit 903 stops the output of the first command or the second command when the first load stop signal is input.

  When the second load drive signal is input, the timing adjustment unit 903 sends an output command to the second PWM carrier output unit 906 to output the second PWM carrier. More specifically, when the second load drive signal is input, the timing adjustment unit 903 sends a third command for continuously outputting the second PWM carrier until a predetermined time t2 elapses. The predetermined time t2 is a time required for the second contact portion 41a of the second relay 41 to switch from the off state to the on state. The timing adjustment unit 903 intermittently sends a fourth command for outputting a second PWM carrier having a predetermined pulse width at predetermined intervals when a predetermined time t2 has elapsed after the output of the third command. The pulse width of the second PWM carrier assumed in the fourth command is a pulse width required for maintaining the ON state after the second contact portion 41a of the second relay 41 is switched to the ON state. Is shorter than the pulse width of the second PWM carrier output continuously. When the second load stop signal is input, the timing adjustment unit 903 stops the output of the third command or the fourth command.

  In addition, when the third load drive signal is input, the timing adjustment unit 903 sends an output command to the third PWM carrier output unit 907 to output the third PWM carrier. More specifically, when the third load drive signal is input, the timing adjustment unit 903 sends a fifth command for continuously outputting the third PWM carrier until a predetermined time t3 elapses. The predetermined time t3 is a time required for the third contact portion 51a of the third relay 51 to switch from the off state to the on state. The timing adjustment unit 903 intermittently sends a sixth command for outputting a third PWM carrier having a predetermined pulse width at predetermined intervals when a predetermined time t3 has elapsed after the output of the fifth command. The pulse width of the third PWM carrier assumed in the sixth command is a pulse width required for maintaining the ON state after the third contact portion 51a of the third relay 51 is switched to the ON state. Is shorter than the pulse width of the third PWM carrier that is continuously output at. When the third load stop signal is input, the timing adjustment unit 903 stops the output of the fifth command or the sixth command.

  The above processing is the basic control of the timing adjustment unit 903.

(2-4-2-3-2) First Control The timing adjustment unit 903 does not output (send alone) the first command, the third command, and the fifth command in the basic control at the same time in the first control. Next, adjust the output timing of each command. That is, when the first load drive signal, the second load drive signal, and the third load drive signal are input in duplicate, the timing adjustment unit 903 first outputs the first command, the third command, and the fifth command. Any one (for example, the first command) is output, and when the output ends (the predetermined time t1 has elapsed), any of the other commands (for example, the second command) is output, and the output ends (the predetermined command The remaining command (for example, the third command) is output after the time t2 has elapsed.

  By executing such first control, it is suppressed that any two or more of the first command, the third command, and the fifth command are simultaneously output from the timing adjustment unit 903.

(2-4-2-3-3) Second Control The timing adjustment unit 903 does not output (send alone) the second command, the fourth command, and the sixth command in the basic control in the second control. Next, adjust the output timing of each command. That is, when the first load drive signal, the second load drive signal, and the third load drive signal are input in duplicate, the timing adjustment unit 903 first outputs the second command, the fourth command, and the sixth command. Any one (for example, the second command) is output, and after the output ends, any of the other commands (for example, the fourth command) is output, and after the output ends, the remaining commands (for example, the second command) 6 commands) is output.

  Note that any two of the first load drive signal, the second load drive signal, and the third load drive signal are input in duplicate (that is, the first contact portion 31a, the second contact portion 41a, and the third contact point). In the case where it is necessary to set any two of the units 51a to the ON state), the output of each PWM carrier is equal to the frequency obtained by dividing 360 (degrees) by 2 (number of relays to be driven) (ie 180 degrees). The output timing of each command is adjusted so that the timing phase is shifted.

  In addition, the first load drive signal, the second load drive signal, and the third load drive signal are all input in duplicate (that is, the first contact portion 31a, the second contact portion 41a, and the third contact portion 51a). In the case where both of the above are required to be set to the ON state), the phase of the output timing of each PWM carrier is equal to the number obtained by dividing 360 (degrees) by 3 (number of relays to be driven) (that is, 120 degrees). The output timing of each command is adjusted so as to deviate.

  In other words, in the second control, the timing adjustment unit 903 outputs the number of times divided by the number of relays that drive 360 (degrees) (that is, the number of switching units to which the second drive voltage is supplied). The second command, the fourth command, or the sixth command is output so that the timing is shifted. By executing such second control, it is suppressed that any two or more of the second command, the fourth command, and the sixth command are simultaneously output from the timing adjustment unit 903.

(2-4-2-3-4) Flow of Operation of Timing Adjustment Unit 903 FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of operation in the timing adjustment unit 903. The timing adjustment unit 903 operates as shown in FIG. 4 when the power is turned on.

  That is, in step S101, it is determined whether the first load drive signal is input (whether the first load stop signal is not input). If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S102. On the other hand, if the determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S104.

  In step S102, it is determined whether or not the second load drive signal is input (whether or not the second load stop signal is input). If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S103. On the other hand, if the determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S105.

  In step S103, it is determined whether or not the third load drive signal is input (whether or not the third load stop signal is input). If the determination is NO, the process returns to step S101. On the other hand, if the determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S108.

  In step S104, it is determined whether or not the second load drive signal or the third load drive signal is input (whether the second load stop signal or the third load stop signal is input). If the determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S106. On the other hand, if the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S109.

  In step S105, it is determined whether or not the third load drive signal is input (whether or not the third load stop signal is input). If the determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S107. On the other hand, if the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S110.

  In step S106, S107 or S108, basic control is executed.

  In step S109 or S110, the first control and / or the second control is executed in addition to the basic control.

(2-4-2-4) PWM signal output unit 904
The PWM signal output unit 904 is connected to the PWM signal amplifier 80a. The PWM signal output unit 904 receives the PWM output command output from the timing adjustment unit 903, and continuously outputs the PWM signal to the PWM signal amplifier 80a.

(2-4-2-5) First PWM carrier output unit 905
The first PWM carrier output unit 905 is connected to the first AND circuit 81. When receiving the first command output from the timing adjustment unit 903, the first PWM carrier output unit 905 continuously outputs the first PWM carrier to the first AND circuit 81 until the predetermined time t1 elapses. Further, when the first PWM carrier output unit 905 receives the second command output from the timing adjustment unit 903, the first PWM carrier output unit 905 outputs a first PWM carrier having a predetermined pulse width to the first AND circuit 81 according to the timing. .

(2-4-2-6) Second PWM carrier output unit 906
The second PWM carrier output unit 906 is connected to the second AND circuit 82. When receiving the third command output from the timing adjustment unit 903, the second PWM carrier output unit 906 continuously outputs the second PWM carrier to the second AND circuit 82 until the predetermined time t2 elapses. Also, when receiving the fourth command output from the timing adjustment unit 903, the second PWM carrier output unit 906 outputs a second PWM carrier having a predetermined pulse width to the second AND circuit 82 in accordance with the timing. .

(2-4-2-7) Third PWM carrier output unit 907
The third PWM carrier output unit 907 is connected to the third AND circuit 83. When the third PWM carrier output unit 907 receives the fifth command output from the timing adjustment unit 903, the third PWM carrier output unit 907 continuously outputs the third PWM carrier to the third AND circuit 83 until the predetermined time t3 elapses. Further, when the third PWM carrier output unit 907 receives the sixth command output from the timing adjustment unit 903, the third PWM carrier output unit 907 outputs a third PWM carrier having a predetermined pulse width to the third AND circuit 83 according to the timing. .

(3) Flow of Operation of Each Part in Load Drive Device 10 Hereinafter, an example of a flow of operation of each part in the load drive device 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG. 5 is a timing chart showing an example of the operation flow of each unit in the load driving device 10. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a VI portion in FIG.

(3-1) Period A
In the period A shown in FIG. 5, the load driving device 10 is in an off state (a state in which no instruction is input). Therefore, none of the PWM signal and the first, second, and third PWM carriers are output, and none of the first relay 31, the second relay 41, and the third relay 51 is driven (that is, the first All of the contact part 31a, the second contact part 41a, and the third contact part 51a are in an off state).

(3-2) Period B
In the period B, when the first load drive signal, the second load drive signal, and the third load drive signal are input at the timing T1, the timing adjustment unit 903 executes the first control in addition to the basic control. Then, the output of the PWM signal is started and the first command is output. Thus, the first PWM carrier is input to the first AND circuit 81 for a predetermined time t1, and a pulse signal is output from the first AND circuit 81 to the first switching element 30a. The pulse signal is output for a predetermined time t1, which is a period necessary to switch the first relay 31 (first contact portion 31a) from the off state to the on state (that is, according to the claims) Corresponds to “first pulse signal”).

  As a result of the above processing, the first relay 31 (first contact portion 31a) is switched from the off state to the on state through chattering, and the first load 91 is supplied with a current to be in an operating state.

(3-3) Period C
In the period C, when the predetermined time t1 elapses after the first PWM carrier is output at the timing T2, the timing adjustment unit 903 continuously executes the basic control and the first control, and outputs the PWM signal. And the third command is output. Accordingly, the second PWM carrier is input to the second AND circuit 82 for a predetermined time t2, and a pulse signal is output from the second AND circuit 82 to the second switching element 40a.

  The pulse signal is output for a predetermined time t2, which is a period necessary to switch the second relay 41 (second contact portion 41a) from the off state to the on state (that is, according to the claims) Corresponds to “first pulse signal”).

  The above processing is executed, the second relay 41 (second contact portion 41a) is switched from the off state to the on state through chattering, and the second load 92 is supplied with current and becomes in an operating state.

  In the period C, the timing adjustment unit 903 intermittently outputs the second command. Accordingly, the first PWM carrier having a predetermined pulse width is intermittently output at predetermined intervals. Thus, the first PWM carrier is input to the first AND circuit 81 at regular intervals, and in response to this, a pulse signal is intermittently output from the first AND circuit 81 to the first switching element 30a.

  The pulse signal has a pulse width (duty ratio) set in advance to hold the first relay 31 (first contact portion 31a) in the ON state, and is output from the first AND circuit 81 in the period A. The pulse signal has a pulse width shorter than that of the pulse signal (that is, corresponds to a “second pulse signal” in the claims).

  The above process is performed, the 1st relay 31 (1st contact part 31a) is set to an ON state, and the 1st load 91 hold | maintains an operation state.

(3-4) Period D
In the period D, when the predetermined time t2 has elapsed since the second PWM carrier is output at the timing T3, the timing adjustment unit 903 continuously executes the basic control and the first control, and outputs the PWM signal. And the fifth command is output. Accordingly, the third PWM carrier is input to the third AND circuit 83 for a predetermined time t3, and a pulse signal is output from the third AND circuit 83 to the third switching element 50a.

  The pulse signal is output for a predetermined time t3 that is a period required to switch the third relay 51 (third contact portion 51a) from the off state to the on state (that is, according to the claims) Corresponds to “first pulse signal”).

  As a result of the above processing, the third relay 51 (third contact portion 51a) is switched from the off state to the on state through chattering, and the third load 93 is supplied with current and becomes in an operating state.

  In the period D, the timing adjustment unit 903 intermittently outputs the second command and the fourth command. Accordingly, the first PWM carrier and the second PWM carrier having a predetermined pulse width are intermittently output at predetermined intervals. Thus, the first PWM carrier is input to the first AND circuit 81 at regular intervals, and in response to this, a pulse signal is intermittently output from the first AND circuit 81 to the first switching element 30a.

  At the same time, the second PWM carrier is input to the second AND circuit 82 at regular intervals, and in response thereto, a pulse signal is intermittently output from the second AND circuit 82 to the second switching element 40a. The pulse signal has a pulse width (duty ratio) set in advance to hold the second relay 41 (second contact portion 41a) in the ON state, and is output from the second AND circuit 82 in the period C. The pulse signal has a pulse width shorter than that of the pulse signal (that is, corresponds to a “second pulse signal” in the claims).

  The above processing is executed, the second relay 41 is set to the on state in addition to the first relay 31, and the first load 91 and the second load 92 hold the operating state.

  Further, in the period D, the timing adjustment unit 903 further executes the second control. That is, in the period D, since it is necessary to drive all of the first relay 31, the second relay 41, and the third relay 51, the timing adjustment unit 903 is the number of relays that drive 360 (degrees) 3 ( That is, the output timing of each command is adjusted so that each PWM carrier is output with a shift by a frequency (120 degrees) divided by the number of switching units to which the second drive voltage is supplied.

  Thereby, in the period D, the output timings of the first PWM carrier and the second PWM carrier are adjusted so that the phases are shifted by 120 degrees (see FIG. 6). Therefore, the pulse signal output from the second AND circuit 82 to the second switching element 40a is delayed by 120 degrees in phase with respect to the pulse signal output from the first AND circuit 81 to the first switching element 30a. Yes.

(3-5) Period E
In the period E, when the predetermined time t3 has elapsed after the third PWM carrier is output at the timing T4, the timing adjustment unit 903 continues to execute the basic control, continues to output the PWM signal, The command, the fourth command, and the sixth command are output intermittently. Accordingly, the first PWM carrier, the second PWM carrier, and the third PWM carrier having a predetermined pulse width are intermittently output at predetermined intervals.

  Thus, the first PWM carrier is input to the first AND circuit 81 at regular intervals, and in response to this, a pulse signal is intermittently output from the first AND circuit 81 to the first switching element 30a. At the same time, the second PWM carrier is input to the second AND circuit 82 at regular intervals, and in response thereto, a pulse signal is intermittently output from the second AND circuit 82 to the second switching element 40a.

  Further, the third PWM carrier is input to the third AND circuit 83 at regular intervals, and in response to this, a pulse signal is intermittently output from the third AND circuit 83 to the third switching element 50a. The pulse signal has a pulse width (duty ratio) set in advance to hold the third relay 51 (third contact portion 51a) in the ON state, and is output from the third AND circuit 83 in the period D. The pulse signal has a pulse width shorter than that of the pulse signal (that is, corresponds to a “second pulse signal” in the claims).

  The above processing is executed, the third relay 51 is set to the on state in addition to the first relay 31 and the second relay 41, and the first load 91, the second load 92, and the third load 93 hold the operating state. To do.

  In the period E, the timing adjustment unit 903 continues to execute the second control. That is, in the period E, since it is necessary to drive all of the first relay 31, the second relay 41, and the third relay 51, the timing adjustment unit 903 is the number of relays that drive 360 (degrees) 3 The output timing of each command is adjusted so that each PWM carrier is shifted and output by a frequency (120 degrees) divided by (that is, the number of switching units to which the second drive voltage is supplied).

  Thereby, in the period E, the output timings of the first PWM carrier and the second PWM carrier, the second PWM carrier and the third PWM carrier, and the third PWM carrier and the first PWM carrier are adjusted so that the phases are shifted by 120 degrees, respectively (see FIG. 6). Therefore, the pulse signal output from the second AND circuit 82 to the second switching element 40a is delayed by 120 degrees in phase with respect to the pulse signal output from the first AND circuit 81 to the first switching element 30a. Yes. In addition, the pulse signal output from the third AND circuit 83 to the third switching element 50a is delayed by 120 degrees in phase with respect to the pulse signal output from the second AND circuit 82 to the second switching element 40a. Yes.

(3-6) Summary As described above, in the periods B to E, the basic control by the timing adjustment unit 903 is executed, so that the contact portions of the relays are turned on from the off state to the switching units. A first driving voltage for switching to the first driving voltage is supplied, and when a predetermined time has elapsed after the first driving voltage starts to be supplied, a second driving voltage that is lower than the first driving voltage is supplied. Thereby, the power consumption of the load driving device 10 is reduced.

  In the period B to E, the controller 70 outputs a pulse signal (first pulse signal) having a predetermined pulse width corresponding to the predetermined time t1, t2 or t3, so that each switching unit (30, 40 or 50) is supplied with the first drive voltage. Further, during the periods C to E, a pulse signal (second pulse signal) having a predetermined pulse width is intermittently output from the controller 70, whereby the second drive voltage is supplied to each switching unit (30, 40, or 50). Is supplied. As described above, the first drive voltage and the second drive voltage are supplied by the PWM control, so that a decrease in energy efficiency is suppressed.

  In the periods B, C, and D, the first control by the timing adjustment unit 903 is executed, so that the first switching unit switches the relay (contact point unit) from the off state to the on state. It is suppressed that the driving voltage is supplied at the same time. Thereby, the instantaneous current in the load driving device 10 is suppressed.

  In the periods D and E, the second control is executed, so that the second drive voltage for maintaining the ON state of the relay (contact part) is simultaneously supplied to each switching unit. It is suppressed. Thereby, the instantaneous current in the load driving device 10 is suppressed.

(4) Features (4-1)
In the above-described embodiment, the PWM control unit 90 (timing adjustment unit 903) includes a switch (the first contact unit 31a, the third switching unit 50) among the plurality of switching units among the first switching unit 30, the second switching unit 40, and the third switching unit 50. When the second contact portion 41a or the third contact portion 51a) is set to the on state, the first control is executed. In the first control, the timing adjustment unit 903 instructs to shift the timing for supplying the first drive voltage for each switching unit, and completes the supply of the first drive voltage to one switching unit and supplies the second drive voltage. Is started, supply of the first drive voltage to any of the other switching units is started, and at the same time, supply of the first drive voltage to a plurality of switching units is suppressed. Thereby, even if it is a case where a switch (the 1st contact part 31a, the 2nd contact part 41a, or the 3rd contact part 51a) is set in an ON state in a plurality of change parts at the same time, it is the same for a plurality of change parts simultaneously. One drive voltage is not supplied.

(4-2)
In the above embodiment, the PWM signal distribution unit 80 outputs the first drive voltage by outputting a pulse signal (first pulse signal) that keeps the High level for a predetermined time t1, t2, or t3 to each switching unit. Supply. In addition, after the elapse of the predetermined time t1, t2, or t3, the second drive voltage is supplied by intermittently outputting a pulse signal (second pulse signal) having a shorter pulse width. As described above, the first driving voltage and the second driving voltage are supplied to each switching unit by PWM control, thereby suppressing a decrease in energy efficiency.

(4-3)
In the above embodiment, the PWM control unit 90 (timing adjustment unit 903) supplies the second drive voltage to a plurality of switching units among the first switching unit 30, the second switching unit 40, and the third switching unit 50. If so, the second control is executed. In the second control, the timing adjustment unit 903 adjusts the output timing of each PWM carrier, and during the period in which the pulse signal (second pulse signal) for one switching unit is not output, A pulse signal (second pulse signal) is output. Thereby, even if it is a case where the 2nd drive voltage is simultaneously supplied to a plurality of change parts, it is controlled that a 2nd pulse signal is outputted to a plurality of change parts simultaneously.

(4-4)
In the above-described embodiment, the PWM control unit 90 (timing adjustment unit 903) supplies the number of relays to be driven (that is, the second drive voltage is supplied) by the phase of each PWM carrier corresponding to each switching unit in the second control. The output timing of each PWM carrier is adjusted so as to be shifted by the number obtained by dividing 360 (degrees) by the number of switching parts to be provided). Thereby, the instantaneous current is suppressed.

(5) Modification (5-1) Modification A
In the above embodiment, the load driving device 10 is provided with three switching units (the first switching unit 30, the second switching unit 40, and the third switching unit 50) and is connected to the three loads. However, there may be any number of switching units provided in the load driving device 10, and the number of connected loads is not limited. For example, the third switching unit 50 and the third load 93 in the above embodiment may be omitted and the number of switching units may be two. Further, four or more switching units may be provided and connected to four or more loads.

(5-2) Modification B
In the said embodiment, the 1st switching part 30, the 2nd switching part 40, and the 3rd switching part 50 have each switching element (30a, 40a, 50a) and each relay (31, 41, 51). It was. However, the relay may be omitted in the first switching unit 30, the second switching unit 40, and the third switching unit 50. In such a case, each switching element is connected to each load (91, 92, 93).

(5-3) Modification C
In the said embodiment, the 1st relay 31, the 2nd relay 41, and the 3rd relay 51 were contact relays which have a contact part (the 1st contact part 31a, the 2nd contact part 41a, or the 3rd contact part 51a). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be, for example, a solid state relay or a hybrid relay.

(5-4) Modification D
In the above embodiment, the controller 70 switches the first switching unit 30, the second switching unit 40, and the third switching unit 50 between the on state and the off state by so-called PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the controller 70 may be configured to switch the on / off state of each switching unit by so-called PAM (Pulse Amplitude Modulation) control.

(5-5) Modification E
In the above embodiment, the timing adjustment unit 903 of the PWM control unit 90 is supplied with the number of relays to be driven (that is, the second drive voltage) in the second control in which the phase of each PWM carrier corresponding to each switching unit is driven. The output timing is adjusted so as to be shifted by the number obtained by dividing 360 (degrees) by the number of switching parts to be obtained.

  However, the present invention is not limited to this, and in the second control, the timing adjustment unit 903 divides 360 degrees of the phase of each PWM carrier corresponding to each switching unit by the number of switching units provided in the air conditioning system. The output timing of each PWM carrier is adjusted so as to be shifted by a frequency. In such a case, for example, when there are four switching units disposed in the air conditioning system, the timing adjustment unit 903 causes the phase of each PWM carrier corresponding to each switching unit to be 360 degrees in the second control. The output timing of each PWM carrier is adjusted so as to shift by the frequency divided by (90 degrees).

  The present invention can be used for a controller of an air conditioning system.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Load drive apparatus 20 Power supply generation part 21 Rectification part 22 Smoothing capacitor 30 1st switching part 30a 1st switching element 31 1st relay 31a 1st contact part (switch)
31b 1st relay coil 31c 1st return diode 40 2nd switching part 40a 2nd switching element 41 2nd relay 41a 2nd contact part (switch)
41b 2nd relay coil 41c 2nd return diode 50 3rd switching part 50a 3rd switching element 51 3rd relay 51a 3rd contact part (switch)
51b Third relay coil 51c Third reflux diode 60 Level shifter 70 Controller 80 PWM signal distribution unit (voltage supply unit)
81 First AND circuit 82 Second AND circuit 83 Third AND circuit 90 PWM controller (switching controller)
91 First load 92 Second load 93 Third load 100 External power supply 901 Storage unit 902 Acquisition unit 903 Timing adjustment unit 904 PWM signal output unit 905 First PWM carrier output unit 906 Second PWM carrier output unit 907 Third PWM carrier output unit

JP-A-5-149646

Claims (5)

A power generation unit (20), a plurality of loads (91, 92, 93),
A plurality of switching units (30, 40, 50) having switches (31a, 41a, 51a) for electrically connecting the power generation unit and any of the loads by being set to an on state;
A controller (70) of the air conditioning system (100),
Respectively supply said switch, a first driving voltage for causing switching from the OFF state to the ON state, a second driving voltage for holding the ON state after switched on, the respective said switching unit A voltage supply (80);
A switching control unit (90) for instructing the timing to supply the first drive voltage or the second drive voltage to the voltage supply unit;
With
The switching controller is
The voltage supply unit is configured to supply the first drive voltage, and after a predetermined first time (t1, t2, t3) has elapsed after the start of supply of the first drive voltage, the first drive voltage is replaced with the first drive voltage. By supplying the second drive voltage, the switch is turned on in the switching unit,
When setting the switch to the on state in the plurality of switching units, the first control is executed,
In the first control, the timing for supplying the first drive voltage is instructed for each switching unit, and the supply of the first drive voltage to one of the switching units is completed and the supply of the second drive voltage is completed. Starting the supply of the first drive voltage to any one of the other switching units, thereby suppressing the supply of the first drive voltage to a plurality of the switching units at the same time. ,
Controller for air conditioning system. The voltage supply unit supplies the first drive voltage to each switching unit by outputting a first pulse signal, and intermittently outputs a second pulse signal having a pulse width shorter than that of the first pulse signal. Supplying the second drive voltage by outputting;
The controller of the air conditioning system of Claim 1. The switching controller is
For the voltage supply unit, a PWM carrier that determines the timing of outputting the second pulse signal for each switching unit is output,
When supplying the second drive voltage to a plurality of the switching units, the second control is executed,
In the second control, the PWM carrier is adjusted so that the second pulse signal for any of the other switching units is output during a period in which the second pulse signal for one of the switching units is not output. ,
The controller of the air conditioning system according to claim 2. In the second control, the switching control unit shifts the phase of each PWM carrier corresponding to each switching unit by a number obtained by dividing 360 degrees by the number of the switching units provided in the air conditioning system. So as to adjust the PWM carrier,
The controller of the air conditioning system of Claim 3. In the second control, the switching control unit corresponds to a frequency obtained by dividing the phase of each PWM carrier corresponding to each switching unit by 360 degrees by the number of the switching units that output the second pulse signal. Adjusting the PWM carrier to shift,
The controller of the air conditioning system of Claim 3.

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