JP7127347B2 - Environmental control system and environmental control device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an environment control system and an environment control device.

In recent years, air-conditioning systems have been proposed that measure human biological data such as heartbeat, pulse, blood flow, and body temperature in real time and control air conditioners according to the measured conditions. Among them, there is known a technique for constructing an office environment according to the physiological and psychological conditions of workers in order to efficiently carry out work in an office or the like. In Patent Document 1 below, body movement is detected using a pressure-sensitive tube provided in the chair of the person in the room, and based on the calculated heartbeat-related parameters, the stress state of the person in the room is determined, and the person in the room is A technique for controlling air conditioning according to the purpose of use of the space is disclosed.

JP 2017-32202 A

The technique of Patent Document 1 has the following problems. A chair and an air conditioner for judging the stress state are installed in the work area of each person in the room. In addition, in an actual office, it is necessary to control the environment of the entire indoor space with a smaller number of air conditioners than the number of people in the room, which is less feasible.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and aims to provide an environment control system and an environment control device capable of suppressing a decrease in worker's efficiency with a relatively simple configuration. aim.

The environment control system according to the present invention includes workability detection means for detecting workability of a worker working in the work space, and a work environment including at least one parameter of temperature, humidity, and wind speed in the work space. A work environment adjustment means capable of adjusting parameter values and a control means for controlling the operation of the work environment adjustment means are provided, and when a decrease in workability is detected, the work environment adjustment means changes the values of the work environment parameters. wherein the work environment adjustment means includes first work environment adjustment means capable of adjusting values of work environment parameters of a group work space in which a plurality of workers can work, and each individual in the group work space and a second work environment adjustment means capable of adjusting the values of the work environment parameters of the individual work space, which is the work space of When a decrease in workability is detected, the value of the work environment parameter of the group work space is changed by the first work environment adjustment means, and the number of workers in the group work space that is less than the reference ratio is reduced. When a decrease in workability is detected for the number of workers, the value of the work environment parameter of the individual work space of the workers whose workability is detected to decrease is changed by the second work environment adjustment means .
Further, the environment control device according to the present invention detects the temperature, humidity, and wind speed in the work space based on the workability information received from the workability detection means for detecting the workability of the worker working in the work space. An environment control device for controlling the operation of a work environment adjusting means capable of adjusting the values of work environment parameters including at least one of A first work environment adjustment means capable of adjusting the values of the work environment parameters of the space, and a second work environment adjustment means capable of adjusting the values of the work environment parameters of the individual work space which is the work space of each individual within the group work space. and when a decrease in workability is detected for a number of workers exceeding the standard ratio among the plurality of workers in the group workspace, the value of the work environment parameter of the group workspace is changed to the first work environment. A decrease in workability was detected when a decrease in workability was detected for some workers less than the standard ratio among the multiple workers in the group workspace by changing the adjustment means. The value of the work environment parameter of the worker's individual work space is changed by the second work environment adjustment means .

ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, it becomes possible to suppress the fall of a worker's efficiency by a comparatively simple structure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is a figure which shows the environmental control system and environmental control apparatus by Embodiment 1. FIG. 1 is a side view showing an example of a working space in which the environment control system according to Embodiment 1 is used; FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of the indoor units and group work space shown in FIG. 2; 4 is a flow chart for explaining processing performed by the environmental control system of Embodiment 1;

Embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Elements that are common or correspond to each figure are denoted by the same reference numerals, and overlapping descriptions are simplified or omitted. The present disclosure may include any combination of combinable configurations among the configurations described in the following embodiments.

Embodiment 1.
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an environment control system and an environment control device according to Embodiment 1. FIG. As shown in FIG. 1 , the environment control system 100 of this embodiment includes an air conditioner 1 , an environment control device 14 , a lighting system 19 , a blower system 20 , a ventilation system 21 and an air cleaning device 22 .

In the following description, the space in which the worker works is referred to as "work space". The work space may be, for example, a space within a conference room, a space within a work room, or a space within an office. “Work” may be labor that mainly uses the brain, or labor that mainly uses the movement of the body. The work space may be a space in which only one worker can work, or a space in which a plurality of workers can work.

In the following description, at least one parameter out of temperature, humidity, and wind speed in the work space will be referred to as "work environment parameter." The "temperature in the work space" may be at least one of the air temperature in the work space, the sensible temperature in the work space, and the temperature of objects (eg, chairs, desks) that the worker touches. As the sensible temperature parameter, for example, a thermal environment evaluation index PMV (Predicted Mean Vote) may be used. The "wind speed in the work space" may be, for example, the average wind speed for one minute.

As shown in FIG. 1 , the air conditioner 1 includes an indoor unit 2 , refrigerant pipes 3 and an outdoor unit 4 . The indoor unit 2 is connected to the outdoor unit 4 via refrigerant pipes 3 . The air conditioner 1 can adjust the values of working environment parameters. The air conditioner 1 air-conditions the working space. The air conditioner 1 includes a wind direction louver 5 and a fan motor and compressor (not shown). The air conditioner 1 can perform at least one air conditioning operation among cooling operation, heating operation, and dehumidifying operation by circulating the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit using the compressor. A fan motor creates an airflow within the workspace. The airflow direction louver 5 adjusts the direction of the airflow blown out from the indoor unit 2 into the working space. The air conditioner 1 in the present embodiment corresponds to working environment adjustment means. Note that FIG. 1 omits illustration of a configuration necessary for realizing an air-conditioning operation including a refrigerating cycle.

FIG. 2 is a side view showing an example of a working space in which the environment control system 100 according to Embodiment 1 is used. FIG. 2 shows an example in which environmental control system 100 is used for group workspace 60 . The collective work space 60 corresponds to a work space in which a plurality of workers 50 can work. The individual work space 70 corresponds to the work space of each worker 50 in the group work space 60 . In the example of FIG. 2 , the seat on which the worker 50 sits corresponds to the individual work space 70 . Personal computers 80 used by the workers 50 are arranged in the individual work spaces 70, respectively. In addition, in the example of FIG. 2, the indoor unit 2 is arranged on the ceiling of the room forming the group work space 60 .

As shown in FIG. 1 , the indoor unit 2 includes a temperature/humidity sensor 8 , a surface temperature sensor 9 , a communication section 10 , a control section 11 , a timer section 12 and a workability determination section 13 . Each of the temperature/humidity sensor 8 , the surface temperature sensor 9 , the communication section 10 , the timer section 12 , and the workability determination section 13 is electrically connected to the control section 11 . The temperature/humidity sensor 8 has a temperature sensor that detects the temperature in the work space and a humidity sensor that detects the humidity in the work space. A temperature and humidity sensor 8 periodically detects the temperature and humidity in the working space. A surface temperature sensor 9 detects the surface temperature of an object to be detected in the working space. The communication unit 10 communicates with the environmental control device 14 . The control unit 11 includes a calculation unit 11a, a storage unit 11b, a fan motor control unit 11c, and a wind direction louver control unit 11d. The control unit 11 performs various controls including control of air conditioning operation. The fan motor controller 11c adjusts the operating speed of the fan motor. The airflow direction louver control unit 11d controls the operation of the airflow direction louvers 5 .

The environment control device 14 includes an operation unit 15 operated by a user, a display unit 16 corresponding to a display for displaying and notifying information, a communication unit 17 and a control unit 18 . Each of the operation unit 15 , the display unit 16 , the communication unit 17 and the control unit 18 is electrically connected to the control unit 18 . The user can input various setting information through the operation unit 15 . The display unit 16 can display information about the control status of the air conditioner 1 and the like. The control unit 18 controls the operation of the environmental control device 14 . The environment control device 14 and the air conditioner 1 can mutually transmit and receive information through the communication units 17 and 10 of each other.

The lighting system 19 includes a lighting device that illuminates the work space. The lighting system 19 can adjust at least one of the color temperature of the illumination light and the illuminance in the work space. A blowing system 20 generates an airflow within the work space. The ventilation system 21 ventilates the air in the work space and the air outside the room. The air purifying device 22 can perform an air purifying operation to purify the air within the working space. Although illustration is omitted, each of the lighting system 19, the blower system 20, the ventilation system 21, and the air cleaning device 22 includes a communication unit for communicating with the communication unit 17 of the environment control device 14. Information can be exchanged with the environmental control device 14 via the .

In the present embodiment, working environment parameters are adjusted using at least one of the air blowing system 20, the ventilation system 21, and the air cleaning device 22 instead of or in addition to the air conditioner 1. can also At least one of the air blowing system 20, the ventilation system 21, and the air cleaning device 22 in the present embodiment corresponds to work environment adjustment means. The control unit 11 and the control unit 18 in this embodiment correspond to control means for controlling the operation of the work environment adjustment means.

In the present embodiment, each of the lighting system 19, the blower system 20, and the air cleaning device 22 is configured as an independent device having a communication function. may be configured to

The surface temperature sensor 9 is provided integrally with the main body of the indoor unit 2 . That is, in the example of FIG. 2, the surface temperature sensor 9 is arranged on the ceiling of the room forming the collective work space 60 . A surface temperature sensor 9 periodically detects the surface temperature of an object to be detected in the work space. The surface temperature sensor 9 may be configured with an infrared sensor having a plurality of thermopiles (not shown), for example. The surface temperature sensor 9 may scan the temperature detection range by rotationally driving the infrared sensor, and generate thermal image data of the temperature detection range using the output of the infrared sensor. Objects to be detected within the temperature detection range may include, for example, the human body of worker 50, the floor surface, and the wall surface. By using the surface temperature sensor 9, it is possible to determine the presence or absence of the worker 50 in the work space, and if the worker 50 exists in the work space, the position of the worker 50 can be specified and the position of the worker 50 can be determined. It is possible to detect the surface temperature of the body of the The surface temperature sensor 9 can detect each of the plurality of workers 50 in the collective work space 60 . The surface temperature sensor 9 in this embodiment corresponds to a biological information sensor that detects the biological information of the worker 50 without contact.

The communication unit 10 and the communication unit 17 may each include a transmitter/receiver for wireless communication. The communication unit 10 and the communication unit 17 may be configured to be able to transmit and receive data to and from a personal digital assistant such as a smart phone possessed by the worker 50 . In addition, the communication unit 10 and the communication unit 17 may be configured to be able to transmit and receive data to and from the personal computer 80 that the worker 50 uses for work.

The clock unit 12 is a real-time clock and outputs clock information to the control unit 11 . The clock information includes month, day, hour, minute and second information.

The environment control system 100 of this embodiment includes workability detection means for detecting workability of the worker 50 working in the work space. The workability detection means in this embodiment includes the surface temperature sensor 9 and the workability determination unit 13 . The workability determination unit 13 determines workability of the worker 50 based on the biological information of the worker 50 obtained using a biological information sensor such as the surface temperature sensor 9 . The work efficiency of the worker 50 changes according to the current physical condition of the worker 50, degree of drowsiness, degree of wakefulness, degree of fatigue, degree of relaxation, degree of stress, and the like. "Workability" corresponds to the ratio of the current efficiency of the 50 individual workers to the maximum efficiency of the 50 individual workers. High workability of the worker 50 corresponds to the current efficiency of the worker 50 being close to the maximum efficiency of the worker 50 . The low workability of the worker 50 corresponds to the current efficiency of the worker 50 being lower than the maximum efficiency of the worker 50 .

Based on the biological information of the worker 50 obtained using a biological information sensor such as the surface temperature sensor 9, the workability determination unit 13 determines a numerical value (hereinafter referred to as "workability index" of the worker 50). may be calculated. For example, if the workability value when the workability of 50 individual workers is the highest is 100, the workability determination unit 13 determines the worker's temperature obtained using a biological information sensor such as the surface temperature sensor 9. A correction coefficient smaller than 1 may be calculated based on the biological information of 50, and the workability value of the worker 50 may be calculated by multiplying 100 by the correction coefficient. When there are a plurality of workers 50, the workability determination unit 13 can individually determine the workability of each of the workers 50 based on the biometric information of each worker. Note that the workability determination unit 13 may be incorporated in the control unit 11 .

The workability detection means may include a biometric information sensor that detects the biometric information of the worker 50 in a non-contact manner. The biological information sensor may detect at least one of skin temperature, heartbeat, eyeball movement, eyelid movement, and eyelid opening degree as biological information. By using such biological information, workability can be detected and determined with high accuracy. For example, based on the biological information of the worker 50, the workability determination unit 13 estimates one or more of the drowsiness level, wakefulness level, fatigue level, relaxation level, and stress level of the worker 50. Then, the workability value of the worker 50 may be calculated based on the estimation result. For example, the workability determination unit 13 may calculate the workability value so that the higher the drowsiness level is, the lower the workability value may be, or may calculate the workability value so that the higher the wakefulness level is, the higher the workability value may be. , the higher the fatigue level, the lower the workability value, the higher the relaxation level, the higher the workability value, or the higher the stress level, the higher the workability value. may be calculated so that the value of is low. A threshold value for estimating the level as described above based on the biological information of the worker 50 may be stored in advance in a storage unit (not shown) within the workability determination unit 13 .

The workability detection means may include, for example, a camera that captures the inside of the work space. The workability determination unit 13 may detect the positions of the worker 50 and the object in the work space by performing image recognition processing on the image captured by the camera.

The workability detection means may include, for example, a Doppler sensor using radio waves such as microwaves, or a biological information sensor using millimeter wave radar. The workability detection means may detect, for example, at least one of body motion, respiratory rate, heartbeat, and blood flow of the worker 50 as biological information by the biological information sensor. The workability determination unit 13 extracts the HF component, which is the high-frequency variation component, and the LF component, which is the low-frequency variation component, based on the heartbeat variation thus detected, and calculates the numerical value of the HF component and the LF/ The state of tension or relaxation of the worker 50 may be estimated using at least one of the numerical value of HF. For example, it may be estimated that the more the HF component, which is the relaxation index in the autonomic nerves, the higher the relaxation level of the worker 50 . Also, it may be estimated that the lower the value of LF/HF, the higher the relaxation level of the worker 50 . Also, it may be estimated that the greater the value of LF/HF, the higher the stress level of the worker 50 .

The workability determination unit 13 performs image recognition processing on the image of the face of the worker 50 photographed by the camera, thereby determining the movement of the eyeballs, the movement of the eyelids, and the degree of opening of the eyelids of the worker 50. At least one may be detected and workability may be determined based on the detection result.

A high sleepiness level results in a large temperature difference between the forehead skin temperature and the nose skin temperature. The workability determination unit 13 detects the temperature difference between the skin temperature of the forehead and the nose of the worker 50 from the thermal image of the face of the worker 50 acquired using the surface temperature sensor 9, and determines the temperature difference. You may estimate the sleepiness level of the worker 50 based on.

A high sleepiness level reduces the number of blinks per hour. The workability determination unit 13 may calculate the number of blinks per hour from the movement of the eyelids of the worker 50 acquired by the camera, and estimate the drowsiness level of the worker 50 based on the calculated number of times.

High levels of drowsiness reduce eyelid opening. The workability determination unit 13 may estimate the drowsiness level of the worker 50 based on the opening degree of the eyelids of the worker 50 acquired by the camera.

The workability determination unit 13 may determine workability from the intensity value of the reflected amount of the near-infrared rays emitted from the light-emitting diode to the worker 50 . The workability determination unit 13 may calculate the sensible temperature from the intensity value and estimate the degree of concentration. The workability determination unit 13 may estimate the blood flow rate by analyzing the chromaticity of the face of the worker 50 using the image captured by the camera.

Further, the workability determination unit 13 uses biometric information received from a wearable sensor (not shown) equipped with a communication function or a biosensor (not shown) worn by the worker 50 to measure workability. You can judge.

In the present embodiment, a configuration in which the air conditioner 1 includes the surface temperature sensor 9 and the workability determination unit 13 corresponding to workability detection means will be described as an example. Instead of 9 and workability determination unit 13, or in addition to surface temperature sensor 9 and workability determination unit 13, workability detection means 25 independent of air conditioner 1 may be used. In this case, the workability detection means 25 has a communication section for communicating with the communication section 17 of the environment control device 14, and transmits and receives information to and from the environment control device 14 via the communication section. is possible.

The calculation unit 11a of the control unit 11 of the air conditioner 1 performs calculations necessary for control. The storage unit 11b stores data used for calculation. The control unit 11 corresponds to a control circuit and is typically realized by a microcomputer. In this case, the calculation unit 11a corresponds to a processor, and the storage unit 11b corresponds to a memory. A memory is generally a semiconductor memory. The calculation unit 11a executes the program stored in the storage unit 11b and executes the control method described in the program. The storage unit 11b stores setting information of the air conditioner 1, output data of the temperature and humidity sensor 8, output data of the surface temperature sensor 9, detection values of the workability determination unit 13, and the like.

The control unit 11 controls the air conditioning operation based on the setting information of the air conditioner 1 , the output data of the temperature/humidity sensor 8 , and the output data of the surface temperature sensor 9 .

The calculation unit 18a of the control unit 18 of the environment control device 14 executes calculations necessary for control. The storage unit 18b stores data used for calculation. The control unit 18 corresponds to a control circuit and is typically realized by a microcomputer. In this case, the calculation unit 18a corresponds to a processor, and the storage unit 18b corresponds to a memory. A memory is generally a semiconductor memory. The calculation unit 18a executes the program stored in the storage unit 18b and executes the control method described in the program. The setting information of the air conditioner 1, the lighting system 19, the ventilation system 20, the ventilation system 21, and the air cleaning device 22, the detection value of the workability determination unit 13, and the like are stored in the storage unit 18b.

As shown in FIG. 2, the lighting system 19 in this embodiment comprises an ambient lighting device 19a and a task lighting device 19b. The ambient lighting device 19 a is arranged on the ceiling of the room that forms the collective work space 60 . The ambient lighting device 19a illuminates the collective workspace 60 as a whole. The lighting system 19 can adjust at least one of the color temperature of the illumination light from the ambient lighting device 19a and the illuminance in the collective work space 60 by the ambient lighting device 19a according to a command from the environment control device 14.

The task lighting device 19b illuminates each individual workspace 70 individually. In the illustrated example, the task lighting devices 19b are installed on the desks of the workers 50 arranged in the individual work spaces 70, respectively. In accordance with a command from the environment control device 14, the lighting system 19 adjusts at least one of the color temperature of the illumination light from the task lighting device 19b and the illuminance in the individual work space 70 by the task lighting device 19b to each individual work space. Adjustable in 70 increments. The task lighting device 19 b corresponds to individual lighting means capable of controlling at least one of the color temperature and illuminance of the illumination light within the individual work space 70 .

In the environment control system 100 of the present embodiment, when a decrease in the workability of the worker 50 is detected, the environment control device 14 controls the air conditioner 1, the blower system 20, the ventilation system 21, and the air cleaning device 22. By controlling at least one of the operations, the value of the working environment parameter for the worker 50 whose workability has decreased is changed. That is, the environment control device 14 controls the value of the working environment parameter for the worker 50 whose workability has been detected to be different from the value of the work environment parameter before the workability deterioration is detected. , air conditioner 1 , blowing system 20 , ventilation system 21 and air cleaning device 22 . Thereby, the worker 50 can be stimulated, and the comfort of the worker 50 can be improved. Therefore, it is possible to recover the workability of the worker 50 and improve the labor efficiency.

Further, in the environment control system 100 of the present embodiment, when a decrease in workability of the worker 50 is detected, the environment control device 14 controls the operation of the lighting system 19 so that the illumination light from the lighting system 19 is reduced. At least one of color temperature and illuminance may be changed. That is, the environment control device 14 adjusts at least one of the color temperature and illuminance of the illumination light for the worker 50 whose workability has been detected to be lower than the color temperature and illuminance of the illumination light before the workability decline is detected. The lighting system 19 is controlled to have a value different from at least one. Thereby, the worker 50 can be stimulated, and the comfort of the worker 50 can be improved. Therefore, it is possible to recover the workability of the worker 50 and improve the labor efficiency. In the following description, the value of at least one of the color temperature and illuminance of illumination light from the illumination system 19 may be referred to as "illumination setting".

Blower system 20 in the present embodiment includes individual blower 20a. The individual blower 20a blows air to each individual work space 70 individually. In the illustrated example, individual blowers 20a are installed on the desks of the workers 50 arranged in the individual work spaces 70, respectively.

The air conditioner 1 corresponds to first work environment adjustment means capable of adjusting the values of the work environment parameters of the entire group work space 60 . The individual blower 20 a corresponds to second work environment adjustment means capable of adjusting the values of the work environment parameters of the individual work space 70 . According to the present embodiment, by providing the first work environment adjustment means and the second work environment adjustment means, it becomes possible to adjust the values of the work environment parameters for each worker 50 more diversely.

The air blowing system 20 controls the operation of the individual air blower 20a in accordance with a command from the environment control device 14, thereby blowing air to stimulate the worker 50 whose workability has deteriorated. Although illustration is omitted, the blower system 20 may be installed on the ceiling or wall surface of the room forming the collective work space 60 and may include a blower that performs overall circulation within the collective work space 60 . The air blowing system 20 may agitate the air in the group workspace 60 according to a command from the environment control device 14 .

The ventilation system 21 corresponds to ventilation means capable of exchanging the air inside the collective work space 60 with the outside air. For example, the blower system 20 may operate strongly when the concentration of carbon dioxide in the room is high, according to a command from the environment control device 14 . By doing so, it is more advantageous for improving the workability of the worker 50 .

The air cleaning device 22 corresponds to air cleaning means including an air filter for filtering air and a blower for blowing air to pass through the air filter. The air cleaning device 22 is operated according to commands from the environmental controller 14 . The air cleaning device 22 can remove microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi, pollen, odorous components, or dust to which they adhere, contained in the air in the work space. Therefore, a good effect on the health of the worker 50 can be obtained, and the worker 50 can breathe easily, which is further advantageous for improving the workability of the worker 50 .

In this embodiment, the lighting system 19, the blower system 20, the ventilation system 21, and the air cleaning device 22 are configured to be controlled by commands from the environment control device 14, but each system is provided with an independent operation unit. , the operator 50 may be configured to individually operate and change settings.

FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of the indoor unit 2 and group work space 60 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, in this embodiment, there are 16 individual workspaces 70 for 16 workers 50 within the group workspace 60 . In FIG. 3, for convenience, they are represented as follows. Workers 50 who are present and whose workability has not deteriorated are indicated by white solid circles. A worker 50 who is present and whose workability is degraded is indicated by a dashed white circle. An absent worker 50 is indicated by a black circle. In the example shown in FIG. 3, eight workers 50 are in the room and eight workers 50 are absent out of the capacity of 16 workers. Further, among the eight workers 50 in the room, there are four workers 50 whose workability has not deteriorated and four workers 50 whose workability has deteriorated.

The indoor unit 2 has four outlets 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D. A wind direction louver 5 is provided for each of the outlets 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D. The indoor unit 2 can individually adjust at least one of the temperature, wind speed, and humidity of the air blown out from each of the outlets 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D. In addition, the indoor unit 2 can individually adjust the direction of the airflow blown out from each of the outlets 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D by the respective wind direction louvers 5 .

The collective work space 60 can be considered divided into four collective work spaces 60A, 60B, 60C, and 60D. There are eight individual workspaces 70 for eight workers 50 within the collective workspace 60A. The air blown out from the air outlet 6A mainly flows into the collective work space 60A. The air outlet 6A corresponds to first work environment adjustment means capable of adjusting the values of the work environment parameters of the collective work space 60A. There are eight individual workspaces 70 for eight workers 50 within the collective workspace 60B. A portion of the collective work space 60B and a portion of the collective work space 60A overlap. In the illustrated example, the four individual workspaces 70 within the collective workspace 60B are identical to the four individual workspaces 70 within the collective workspace 60A. The air blown out from the outlet 6B mainly flows into the collective work space 60B. The air outlet 6B corresponds to first work environment adjustment means capable of adjusting the values of the work environment parameters of the collective work space 60B. There are eight individual workspaces 70 for eight workers 50 within the collective workspace 60C. A portion of the collective work space 60C and a portion of the collective work space 60B overlap. In the illustrated example, the four individual workspaces 70 within the collective workspace 60C are identical to the four individual workspaces 70 within the collective workspace 60B. The air blown out from the outlet 6C mainly flows into the collective work space 60C. The air outlet 6C corresponds to first work environment adjustment means capable of adjusting the values of the work environment parameters of the collective work space 60C. There are eight individual workspaces 70 for eight workers 50 within the collective workspace 60D. A portion of the collective work space 60D and a portion of the collective work space 60C overlap. In the illustrated example, the four individual workspaces 70 within the collective workspace 60D are identical to the four individual workspaces 70 within the collective workspace 60C. The air blown out from the outlet 6D mainly flows into the collective work space 60D. The air outlet 6D corresponds to first work environment adjustment means capable of adjusting the values of the work environment parameters of the collective work space 60D. A portion of the collective work space 60A and a portion of the collective work space 60D overlap. In the illustrated example, the four individual workspaces 70 within the collective workspace 60A are identical to the four individual workspaces 70 within the collective workspace 60D.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart for explaining the processing performed by the environmental control system 100 of the first embodiment. In the following description, it is assumed that each worker 50 in the group work space 60 is in a state such as the example shown in FIG.

When work or employment starts, the environmental control system 100 detects the position of each worker 50 using the surface temperature sensor 9 as step S1 in FIG. Thereby, it can be determined whether or not each worker 50 is present. If the workability detection means includes another sensor such as a camera, the workability determination unit 13 may perform the processing of step S1 based on the information detected by the sensor.

Next, in step S2, the environment control system 100 uses the workability determination unit 13 to determine whether the workability of each worker 50 is degraded. In this step S2, the workability determination unit 13 may perform, for example, the following. The value obtained by multiplying the workability value detected at the beginning of work or employment by a coefficient smaller than 1 is set as the workability threshold, and workability is determined when the current workability value is less than the workability threshold. may be determined to be decreased. Further, past data of workability values for each worker 50 is stored, a workability threshold is set for each worker 50 based on the past data, and the current workability value is less than the workability threshold. It may be determined that workability is degraded when .

Next, in step S3, the environment control system 100 determines workability as an area including a plurality of workers 50, for example, as follows. As shown in FIG. 3, there are currently five workers 50 in the collective work space 60A, two of whom are degraded in workability, and three of them are not degraded in workability. As described above, in the group work space 60A, the number of workers 50 whose workability has not deteriorated is larger than the number of workers 50 whose workability has deteriorated, so the value of the work environment parameter is changed. Low need. Therefore, the environment control system 100 does not need to change the air conditioning operation using the air outlet 6A, so normal operation is continued in step S4.

In addition, there are currently four workers 50 in the collective work space 60B, one of whom has decreased workability, and three of whom have not decreased workability. As described above, in the group work space 60B, the number of workers 50 whose workability has not deteriorated is larger than the number of workers 50 whose workability has deteriorated, so the value of the work environment parameter is changed. Low need. Therefore, the environment control system 100 does not need to change the air conditioning operation using the air outlet 6B, so normal operation is continued as step S4.

In addition, there are currently three workers 50 in the collective work space 60C, two of whom are degraded in workability, and one worker is not degraded in workability. As described above, in the group work space 60C, the number of workers 50 whose workability has deteriorated is larger than the number of workers 50 whose workability has not deteriorated, so the value of the work environment parameter is changed. Highly necessary. Therefore, the environment control system 100 needs to change the air conditioning operation using the air outlet 6C, so in step S5, the environment control system 100 shifts to the workability improvement mode for changing the value of the work environment parameter.

In addition, there are currently four workers 50 in the group work space 60D, three of whom are degraded in workability, and one worker is not degraded in workability. As described above, in the group work space 60D, the number of workers 50 whose workability has deteriorated is larger than the number of workers 50 whose workability has not deteriorated, so the value of the work environment parameter is changed. Highly necessary. Therefore, the environment control system 100 needs to change the air conditioning operation using the air outlet 6D, so in step S5, it shifts to the workability improvement mode for changing the value of the work environment parameter.

As described above, in the present embodiment, when a decrease in workability is detected for workers 50 whose number is equal to or greater than the reference ratio among the plurality of workers 50 in the group work space, the group work space The values of working environment parameters are changed by the first working environment adjusting means (air outlets 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D). Thereby, it becomes possible to more appropriately adjust the values of the working environment parameters of the group workspace including the plurality of workers 50 . In the above example, the "reference ratio" is 1/2, but the value of the reference ratio is not limited to this, and may be a value larger than 1/2 or a value smaller than 1/2. .

For the collective work spaces 60C and 60D that have shifted to the workability improvement mode, the following is done. First, in step S6, the air conditioning setting is changed. For example, according to the detected value of the surface temperature sensor 9, the air conditioner 1 raises the set temperatures of the outlets 6C and 6D when the worker 50 is cold, Sometimes, the set temperatures of the outlets 6C and 6D may be lowered. Next, in step S7, the lighting setting is changed. For example, the drowsiness of the worker 50 may be prevented by increasing the output of the ambient lighting devices 19a belonging to the group work spaces 60C and 60D to increase the illuminance of the group work spaces 60C and 60D. Subsequently, in step S8, the ventilation setting is changed. For example, ventilation system 21 may be operated to increase ventilation. As a result, fresh air is introduced into the work space, which is advantageous in restoring the workability of the worker 50 . Subsequently, in step S9, the air cleaning setting is changed. For example, air cleaning device 22 may be operated to increase the flow of air through an air filter of air cleaning device 22 . As a result, the cleanliness of the air in the work space is increased and the comfort is enhanced, which is advantageous in restoring the workability of the worker 50 .

From step S4 or step S9, the process proceeds to step S10. From step S10 onward, the work environment parameters and lighting settings for each individual work space 70 are individually adjusted depending on whether the workability of each worker 50 is degraded. For the individual work space 70 of the worker 50 whose workability has not deteriorated, the process proceeds from step S10 to step S11. In step S11, if the task lighting device 19b and the individual blower 20a of the individual work space 70 are turned on, the task lighting device 19b and the individual blower 20a are turned off.

On the other hand, for the individual work space 70 of the worker 50 whose workability has deteriorated, the process proceeds from step S10 to step S12, and the processing of the individual workability improvement mode is started as follows. First, as step S13, the lighting setting of the task lighting device 19b of the individual work space 70 is changed. For example, the drowsiness of the worker 50 may be prevented by increasing the output of the task lighting device 19b and increasing the illuminance of the individual work space 70. FIG. Next, in step S14, the individual blower 20a of the individual work space 70 is turned on. As a result, the airflow from the individual blower 20a stimulates the worker 50 whose workability is degraded, and drowsiness can be prevented.

As described above, in the present embodiment, when a decrease in workability is detected for some of the workers 50 in the group work space 60, the workability is reduced. At least one of the color temperature and illuminance of the illumination light in the individual work space 70 of the worker 50 whose decrease has been detected is changed by the individual lighting means (task lighting device 19b). As a result, the workability of the worker 50 whose workability has deteriorated can be improved without affecting the worker 50 whose workability has not deteriorated.

Further, in the present embodiment, when a decrease in workability is detected for some of the workers 50 in the group work space 60, a decrease in workability is detected. The value of the work environment parameter of the individual work space 70 of the worker 50 is changed by the second work environment adjustment means (individual blower 20a). As a result, the workability of the worker 50 whose workability has deteriorated can be improved without affecting the worker 50 whose workability has not deteriorated.

From step S11 or step S14, the process proceeds to step S15. The timer unit 12 measures, for each worker 50, the continuous work time, which is the time that the worker 50 has worked continuously from the start of work. In step S15, the environmental control system 100 determines whether or not the continuous work time for each worker 50 has reached X minutes, which is the set time. The environmental control system 100 performs rest mode processing for the worker 50 whose continuous work time has reached the set time. In the rest mode, at least one of working environment parameter values and lighting settings for the worker 50 is changed to encourage the worker 50 to take a break. This allows the worker 50 to take a break at an appropriate timing, which is advantageous in suppressing deterioration in workability. For example, in the rest mode, the illuminance of the individual work space 70 of the worker 50 may be reduced by reducing the output of the task lighting device 19b or turning off the task lighting device 19b. Furthermore, in the rest mode, in response to instructions from the environment control device 14, a push notification is sent to a mobile information terminal such as a smart phone possessed by the worker 50, and the screen of the personal computer 80 used by the worker 50 during work is displayed. A break may be urged by displaying a message prompting the user to take a break.

The process proceeds from step S16 to step S17. In step S<b>17 , the environment control system 100 uses the surface temperature sensor 9 to determine whether or not the worker 50 subject to the rest mode has left the individual work space 70 . When the worker 50 leaves the individual work space 70, it is considered that the worker 50 has taken a break, so the processing of the break mode may be terminated. Therefore, when the worker 50 leaves the individual work space 70, the environment control system 100 terminates the rest mode processing. Also, in step S17, the environment control system 100 determines whether or not it has received a command to cancel the rest mode from the smartphone of the worker 50, the personal computer 80, or the like. When the rest mode cancellation command is received from the worker 50, the environment control system 100 ends the rest mode processing because the rest mode processing should be terminated.

From step S15 or step S17, the process proceeds to step S18. In step S18, the environmental control system 100 determines whether or not the end of work time has arrived, and if the end of work time has not yet arrived, the process from step S1 onwards is executed again. When the closing time has come, the process proceeds to S19.

In step S19, the environmental control system 100 stores in the memory learning data of work patterns of each worker 50 for the day and temporal fluctuations in workability. In this way, the environment control system 100 can learn, for each worker 50, the tendency of the workability of the worker 50 to change over time. Depending on the individuality of each worker 50, there are, for example, workers 50 whose workability tends to decrease in the morning, workers 50 whose workability tends to decrease after lunch, workers 50 whose workability tends to decrease in the evening, and the like. . The environment control system 100 may adjust the values of the work environment parameters based on the learning data obtained by learning the trend of temporal fluctuations in workability of the worker 50 and the current time. By doing so, it is possible to prevent deterioration in the workability of the worker 50 in advance during the flow of time in a day.

Depending on the individuality of each worker 50, there is a possibility that the value of the work environment parameter preferred by the worker 50 differs from person to person. In view of this point, the environment control system 100 may be configured as follows. The environment control system 100 individually calculates values of work environment parameters preferred by each worker 50 based on the learning data described above, and stores the calculated values in the memory as target values for each worker 50. . The environment control system 100 stores in memory the relationship between the position of each individual work space 70 and the target value for the worker 50 using the individual work space 70 . As described above, the environment control system 100 can vary the values of work environment parameters for each individual work space 70 . When a decrease in workability of the worker 50 in any of the individual work spaces 70 is detected, the environment control system 100 sets the value of the work environment parameter of the individual work space 70 to the target value for the worker 50. Adjust the values of the work environment parameters so that they are closer to By doing so, for example, even in an office space where many workers 50 are present, workability can be improved with a simple configuration.

The environment control system 100 detects that the workability of the worker 50 has decreased and changes the value of the work environment parameter or the lighting setting. Values or lighting settings may be controlled back to their original values. Thereby, it becomes possible to further improve the comfort of the operator 50 . When the workability value of the worker 50 rises above the workability threshold value, the environment control system 100 considers that the workability of the worker 50 has recovered and performs the above control. good.

In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the workability detection means detects workability based on the biological information of the worker 50 has been described, but the method for the workability detection means to detect workability is not limited to this. For example, it may be as follows. The workability detection means may detect workability according to the frequency of operation of at least one of the keyboard and mouse of the personal computer 80 . The workability detection means may calculate the workability value such that the higher the operation frequency, the higher the workability value. The workability detection means may include means for receiving a report from the worker 50 and detect workability according to the report from the worker 50 . The workability detection means may receive reports from the worker 50, such as "drowsiness", "chilly", and "hot", and may calculate the workability value based on the information. The workability detection means may detect workability using both the above-described method and the biological information of the worker 50 .

1 Air conditioner 2 Indoor unit 3 Refrigerant pipe 4 Outdoor unit 5 Wind direction louver 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D Air outlet 8 Temperature and humidity sensor 9 Surface temperature sensor 10 Communication unit 11 Control unit 12 Timing unit 13 Workability determination unit 14 Environment control device 15 Operation unit 16 Display unit 17 Communication unit 18 Control unit 19 Lighting system 19a Ambient lighting device 19b Task lighting device 20 Ventilation system 20a Individual Blower 21 Ventilation system 22 Air cleaning device 25 Workability detection means 50 Worker 60, 60A, 60B, 60C, 60D Group work space 70 Individual work space 80 Personal computer 100 Environmental control system

Claims (13)

workability detection means for detecting workability of a worker working in the work space;
working environment adjustment means capable of adjusting values of working environment parameters including at least one parameter of temperature, humidity, and wind speed in the working space;
and a control means for controlling the operation of the working environment adjustment means,
An environment control system that changes the value of the work environment parameter by the work environment adjustment means when the deterioration of the workability is detected ,
The work environment adjustment means includes first work environment adjustment means capable of adjusting the values of the work environment parameters of a group work space in which a plurality of workers can work, and a work space of each individual in the group work space. a second work environment adjustment means capable of adjusting the values of the work environment parameters of a certain individual work space;
When the decrease in workability is detected for the workers whose number is equal to or greater than a reference ratio among the plurality of workers present in the group work space, the value of the work environment parameter of the group work space is changed to the first. Changed by one work environment adjustment means,
When the decrease in workability is detected for a part of the workers who are less than the reference ratio among the plurality of workers in the group workspace, the decrease in workability is detected. An environment control system for changing the value of the work environment parameter of the individual work space of the worker by the second work environment adjustment means. The workability detection means includes a biometric information sensor that detects the biometric information of the worker in a non-contact manner,
2. The environment control system according to claim 1, wherein said biological information sensor is installed integrally with said working environment adjusting means. When the workability recovers after the deterioration of the workability is detected and the value of the work environment parameter is changed by the work environment adjustment means, the value of the work environment parameter is returned to the original value by the work environment adjustment means. 3. The environmental control system of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the environmental control system returns. A lighting means capable of controlling at least one of color temperature and illuminance of the illumination light in the working space,
4. The environment control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein at least one of color temperature and illuminance of the illumination light is changed when the deterioration of the workability is detected. Individual lighting means capable of controlling at least one of color temperature and illuminance of illumination light in an individual work space, which is an individual work space in a group work space where a plurality of workers can work,
When the decrease in workability is detected for a part of the plurality of workers in the group work space, the individual worker for whom the decrease in workability is detected 5. The environment control system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , wherein at least one of color temperature and illuminance of illumination light within the work space is changed by the individual lighting means. Provided with ventilation means for ventilating the work space,
6. The environment control system according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , wherein the ventilation volume by the ventilation means is increased when the deterioration of the workability is detected. An air cleaning means for cleaning the air in the working space,
7. The environment control system according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the flow rate of the air passing through the air cleaning means is increased when the deterioration of the workability is detected. one room has a plurality of said work spaces for a plurality of said workers;
storage means for storing a relationship between the position of each said workspace and a target value for said worker using said workspace;
The work environment adjustment means can vary the value of the work environment parameter for each work space,
When the deterioration of the workability is detected, the value of the working environment parameter is changed so as to approach the target value for the worker whose workability has been detected to deteriorate. 8. The environmental control system according to any one of 7 . A lighting means capable of controlling at least one of color temperature and illuminance of the illumination light in the working space,
By changing at least one of the value of the work environment parameter, the color temperature, and the illuminance when the continuous work time, which is the time during which the worker has worked continuously, reaches a set time. 9. The environment control system according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , having a rest mode for prompting the worker to rest. 10. The environment control system according to claim 9 , wherein the processing of the rest mode is terminated either when the worker leaves the seat or when a cancellation command is received from the worker. A storage means for storing the temporal fluctuation of the workability of the worker in a day;
11. The value of the work environment parameter can be adjusted based on the data on the temporal fluctuation of the workability stored in the storage means and the current time. The environmental control system described in . The workability detection means detects at least two levels of the operator's drowsiness level, the operator's arousal level, the operator's fatigue level, and the operator's relaxation level, and 12. The environment control system according to any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the workability value is calculated based on at least two levels. At least one parameter of temperature, humidity, and wind speed in the work space is included based on the workability information received from workability detection means for detecting the workability of a worker working in the work space. An environment control device for controlling the operation of a working environment adjusting means capable of adjusting the values of working environment parameters,
The work environment adjustment means includes first work environment adjustment means capable of adjusting the values of the work environment parameters of a group work space in which a plurality of workers can work, and a work space of each individual in the group work space. a second work environment adjustment means capable of adjusting the values of the work environment parameters of a certain individual work space;
When the decrease in workability is detected for the workers whose number is equal to or greater than a reference ratio among the plurality of workers present in the group work space, the value of the work environment parameter of the group work space is changed to the first value. Changed by one work environment adjustment means,
When the decrease in workability is detected for a part of the workers who are less than the reference ratio among the plurality of workers in the group workspace, the decrease in workability is detected. An environment control device for changing the value of the work environment parameter of the individual work space of the worker by the second work environment adjustment means .

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