WO2024100842A1

WO2024100842A1 - Air-conditioning device and air-conditioning system

Info

Publication number: WO2024100842A1
Application number: PCT/JP2022/041927
Authority: WO
Inventors: ▲琢▼哉阿川
Original assignee: 三菱電機株式会社
Priority date: 2022-11-10
Filing date: 2022-11-10
Publication date: 2024-05-16

Abstract

An air-conditioning device (1) comprises: a detection device that detects data during the operation of each refrigerant circuit (10A, 10B); and a control device (20). The control device (20) computes, from the data detected by the detection device, an air-conditioning processing performance demonstrated by the air-conditioning device (1), controls each of compressors (2) so as to operate in a first mode when the ratio of the computed air-conditioning processing performance to the rated performance of the air-conditioning device (1) is greater than a preset threshold, and controls each of the compressors (2) so as to operate in a second mode when said ratio is less than or equal to the threshold. The control device (20) performs control using a first threshold as the threshold when the number of air-conditioning systems in operation is less than a specific number from among a plurality of air-conditioning systems, and performs control using a second threshold, which is greater than the first threshold, as the threshold when the number of air-conditioning systems in operation is the specific number or greater.

Description

Air conditioner and air conditioning system

This disclosure relates to air conditioning devices and air conditioning systems.

　Air conditioners have been known for some time that perform control (hereinafter also referred to as energy-saving control) to improve operating efficiency by changing the target evaporation temperature for evaporating the refrigerant in the evaporator according to the air-conditioning load. Air conditioners that perform energy-saving control are expected to achieve greater energy savings in buildings with low air-conditioning loads or in intermediate seasons (spring and fall) when the heat generation load is low, because they can control the refrigerant temperature to the target evaporation temperature with small temperature changes. In such air conditioners, the indoor temperature is brought close to the set temperature set by the user in a short period of time, mainly from the perspective of ensuring comfort, so that they are designed not to enter energy-saving control for a certain period of time after the compressor is started (thermo on).

The air conditioner in Patent Document 1 (JP Patent Publication 2002-147823 A) determines the control characteristics of the target value of the evaporating temperature in response to the cooling load characteristics of the building. The air conditioner in Patent Document 1 is configured to change the target value of the evaporating temperature based on the temperature difference between the indoor set temperature and the outdoor air temperature in accordance with this control characteristic.

The air conditioner in Patent Document 2 (JP Patent Publication 2015-021656 A) predicts the generated heat load from the temperature difference between the room's set temperature and the actual intake temperature, turns on the thermo function, and continues operation for a certain period of time. After that, if the temperature difference is greater than the set value, the air conditioner in Patent Document 2 executes control to set the compressor rotation speed to the minimum value.

JP 2002-147823 A JP 2015-021656 A

When selecting an air conditioning unit model, there is a tendency to select an air conditioning unit with a capacity that is somewhat excessive relative to the air conditioning load. For this reason, for example, in air conditioning units that have a capacity that is somewhat excessive relative to the air conditioning load even in the summer when the air conditioning load is high, the load rate relative to the air conditioning capacity (hereinafter also referred to as the air conditioning load rate) is low. When attempting to implement energy saving control using an air conditioning unit with a low air conditioning load rate, the issue is that the expected energy saving effect cannot be obtained due to the repeated starting (thermo on) and stopping (thermo off) of the compressor.

The air conditioner described in Patent Document 1 (JP Patent Publication 2002-147823) is capable of suppressing excessive air conditioning capacity when an inside/outside temperature difference, which is the difference between the indoor set temperature and the outside air temperature, occurs constantly. However, the air conditioner described in Patent Document 1 (JP Patent Publication 2002-147823) does not take into consideration reducing the frequency of compressor start-up and stoppage when the air conditioning load rate is low.

The air conditioner described in Patent Document 2 (JP 2015-021656 A) predicts the heat load generated from the temperature difference between the set temperature and the suction temperature, and is able to reduce the frequency with which the compressor is started and stopped repeatedly. However, the air conditioner described in Patent Document 2 (JP 2015-021656 A) does not anticipate cases where the air conditioning load rate is low, in which a temperature difference between the set temperature and the suction temperature is unlikely to occur, and in such cases the energy saving effect is limited.

The air conditioners described in Patent Document 1 (JP 2002-147823 A) and Patent Document 2 (JP 2015-021656 A) have one air conditioning system that conditions the target space to be air-conditioned, and do not take into consideration air conditioners that condition the target space with multiple air conditioning systems.

The objective of this disclosure is to provide an air conditioning device and air conditioning system that can achieve energy conservation effects when using an air conditioning device with a low air conditioning load factor, and that can be operated in a way that takes into account the conditioning of the target space by multiple air conditioning systems.

The air conditioning apparatus according to the present disclosure relates to an air conditioning apparatus that conditions a target space using multiple air conditioning systems. Each of the multiple air conditioning systems has a refrigerant circuit composed of a first heat exchanger arranged outside the target space, a second heat exchanger arranged within the target space, an expansion valve, and a compressor. In the refrigerant circuit in each air conditioning system, refrigerant flows through the compressor, first heat exchanger, expansion valve, second heat exchanger, and compressor in this order during cooling operation. The air conditioning apparatus includes a detection device that detects data during operation of each refrigerant circuit, and a control device that controls each refrigerant circuit. The control device calculates the air conditioning processing capacity exerted by the air conditioning apparatus from the data detected by the detection device, and controls each compressor to operate in a first mode if the ratio of the calculated air conditioning processing capacity to the rated capacity of the air conditioning apparatus is greater than a preset threshold value, and controls each compressor to operate in a second mode if the ratio is equal to or less than the threshold value. The first mode is an operation mode in which control is performed to change the target value of the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the corresponding second heat exchanger from a first temperature to a second temperature different from the first temperature after a certain grace period has elapsed since the start of operation of each compressor. The second mode is an operation mode in which control is performed to change the target value of the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the corresponding second heat exchanger from a first temperature to a second temperature after a grace period shorter than that in the first mode from the start of operation of each compressor. The control device executes control using a first threshold value as a threshold value when less than a specific number of air conditioning systems are in operation among the multiple air conditioning systems, and executes control using a second threshold value larger than the first threshold value as a threshold value when a specific number or more of air conditioning systems are in operation.

The air conditioning system according to the present disclosure includes an air conditioning device that conditions a target space using multiple air conditioning systems, and a server device connected to the air conditioning device via a network. Each of the multiple air conditioning systems has a refrigerant circuit composed of a first heat exchanger arranged outside the target space, a second heat exchanger arranged within the target space, an expansion valve, and a compressor. In the refrigerant circuit in each air conditioning system, refrigerant flows through the compressor, the first heat exchanger, the expansion valve, the second heat exchanger, and the compressor in this order during cooling operation. The air conditioning device includes a detection device that detects data during operation of each refrigerant circuit, and a control device that controls each refrigerant circuit. The server device calculates the air conditioning processing capacity exerted by the air conditioning device from the data detected by the detection device, and creates first control data for operating each compressor in a first mode if the ratio of the calculated air conditioning processing capacity to the rated capacity of the air conditioning device is greater than a preset threshold, and creates second control data for operating each compressor in a second mode if the ratio is equal to or less than the threshold. The first control data is control data for changing a target value of the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the corresponding second heat exchanger from a first temperature to a second temperature different from the first temperature after a certain grace period has elapsed since the start of operation of each compressor. The second control data is control data for changing a target value of the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the corresponding second heat exchanger from a first temperature to a second temperature after a grace period shorter than the first mode has elapsed since the start of operation of each compressor. The server device creates control data using a first threshold value as a threshold value when less than a specific number of air conditioning systems are in operation among the multiple air conditioning systems, and creates control data using a second threshold value larger than the first threshold value as a threshold value when a specific number or more of the air conditioning systems are in operation.

According to the air conditioning device and air conditioning system of the present disclosure, the air conditioning processing capacity exerted by the air conditioning device is calculated from the data detected by the detection device, and if the ratio of the calculated air conditioning processing capacity to the rated capacity of the air conditioning device is greater than a preset threshold, each compressor is controlled to operate in a first mode, and if the ratio is equal to or less than the threshold, each compressor is controlled to operate in a second mode. The control device executes control using a first threshold as the threshold when less than a specific number of air conditioning systems out of the multiple air conditioning systems are in operation, and executes control using a second threshold greater than the first threshold as the threshold when a specific number or more of air conditioning systems are in operation. As a result, the air conditioning device and air conditioning system of the present disclosure can achieve energy conservation effects when using an air conditioning device with a low air conditioning load rate, and can operate in a way that takes into account the air conditioning of the target space with multiple air conditioning systems.

1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioning apparatus in a first embodiment. 1 is a diagram showing a refrigerant circuit of an air-conditioning apparatus according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the arrangement of indoor units in a target space in the first embodiment. 11 is a graph showing the relationship between the difference between the suction temperature and the set temperature in the indoor unit and the target evaporation temperature. 1 is a graph showing the relationship between time and a target evaporation temperature. 5 is a flowchart showing control during cooling operation in the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the arrangement of indoor units in a target space in embodiment 2. 13 is a flowchart showing control during cooling operation in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the arrangement of indoor units in a target space in embodiment 3. 13 is a flowchart showing control during cooling operation in the third embodiment. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioning system in embodiment 4.

Below, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, when numbers, quantities, etc. are mentioned, the scope of the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to those numbers, quantities, etc., unless otherwise specified. The same reference numbers will be used for the same parts or equivalent parts, and duplicate descriptions may not be repeated. It is intended from the beginning that the configurations in the embodiments will be used in appropriate combinations.

Embodiment 1.
1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioning apparatus 1 in embodiment 1. The air conditioning apparatus 1 includes an indoor unit 110A, an outdoor unit 12 connected to the indoor unit 110A, an indoor unit 110B, an outdoor unit 12 connected to the indoor unit 110B, and a control device 20. Each of the indoor unit 110A and the indoor unit 110B includes a plurality of indoor units 11. There may be any number of indoor units 11 included in one indoor unit. The air conditioning apparatus 1 may be configured to include three or more indoor units.

In the air conditioning device 1, multiple indoor units 11 and outdoor units 12 are connected by piping to form a refrigerant circuit. The inside of the piping is configured so that refrigerant circulates. The outdoor units 12 are installed outside the target space to be air-conditioned. The indoor units 11 are installed within the target space to be air-conditioned. The air conditioning device 1 conditions the target space using multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems. The target space is, for example, the interior of a building. Below, the refrigerant circuit made up of multiple indoor units 11 and outdoor units 12 is described as one air conditioning (refrigerant) system.

The refrigerant filled in the refrigerant circuit is, for example, an HFC refrigerant such as R32, an HCFC refrigerant such as R22, or a natural refrigerant such as R410A, CO ₂ or R290. The refrigerant may be a refrigerant other than the refrigerants shown here.

The control device 20 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 21, memory 22 (ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory)), and an input/output device (not shown) for inputting and outputting various signals. The CPU 21 deploys a program stored in the ROM to the RAM, etc. and executes it. The program stored in the ROM is a program in which the processing procedures of the control device 20 are written. The control device 20 controls each device in the indoor unit 11 and the outdoor unit 12 in accordance with these programs. This control is not limited to processing by software, and can also be processed by dedicated hardware (electronic circuits). The control device 20 may be provided on either the indoor unit 11 side or the outdoor unit 12 side.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the refrigerant circuit of the air conditioner 1 in embodiment 1. The air conditioner 1 includes

refrigerant circuits

10A and 10B. The refrigerant circuit 10A includes multiple indoor units 11 included in the indoor unit 110A, and an outdoor unit 12. The refrigerant circuit 10B includes multiple indoor units 11 included in the indoor unit 110B, and an outdoor unit 12. The outdoor unit 12 includes a compressor 2, a four-way valve 3, an outdoor heat exchanger 4, and a fan 7. The indoor unit 11 includes an expansion valve 5, an indoor heat exchanger 6, and a fan 8.

The compressor 2 draws in, compresses, and discharges the refrigerant. The four-way valve 3 switches the refrigerant circulation direction between cooling and heating operations. In the

refrigerant circuits

10A and 10B in FIG. 2, the flow direction of the refrigerant during cooling operation is indicated by solid arrows. During cooling operation, the indoor heat exchanger 6 functions as an evaporator, and the outdoor heat exchanger 4 functions as a condenser. During heating operation, the refrigerant flow direction is reversed. During heating operation, the indoor heat exchanger 6 functions as a condenser, and the outdoor heat exchanger 4 functions as an evaporator.

The outdoor heat exchanger 4 has multiple heat transfer tubes, and exchanges heat between the outdoor air blown by the fan 7 and the refrigerant passing through the multiple heat transfer tubes. The expansion valve 5 expands the refrigerant and reduces its pressure. The expansion valve 5 is a device that can arbitrarily control the opening degree of, for example, an electronic expansion valve. The indoor heat exchanger 6 has multiple heat transfer tubes, and exchanges heat between the indoor air blown by the fan 8 and the refrigerant passing through the multiple heat transfer tubes.

The air conditioning device 1 is equipped with a plurality of sensors as detection devices for detecting data during operation of the

refrigerant circuits

10A and 10B. A pressure sensor 31a is provided on the refrigerant intake side of the compressor 2 to detect the low pressure of the

refrigerant circuits

10A and 10B. A pressure sensor 31b is provided on the refrigerant discharge side of the compressor 2 to detect the high pressure of the

refrigerant circuits

10A and 10B. A refrigerant temperature sensor 32a and a refrigerant temperature sensor 32b are provided on both ends of the outdoor heat exchanger 4 to detect the temperature of the refrigerant. When the outdoor heat exchanger 4 functions as a condenser, the refrigerant temperature sensor 32a detects the refrigerant temperature on the inlet side of the outdoor heat exchanger 4, and the refrigerant temperature sensor 32b detects the refrigerant temperature on the outlet side of the outdoor heat exchanger 4. When the outdoor heat exchanger 4 functions as an evaporator, the refrigerant temperature sensor 32a detects the refrigerant temperature on the outlet side of the outdoor heat exchanger 4, and the refrigerant temperature sensor 32b detects the refrigerant temperature on the inlet side of the outdoor heat exchanger 4.

Refrigerant temperature sensors

33a and 33b are provided at both ends of the indoor heat exchanger 6 to detect the temperature of the refrigerant. When the indoor heat exchanger 6 functions as an evaporator, the refrigerant temperature sensor 33b detects the refrigerant temperature on the inlet side of the indoor heat exchanger 6, and the refrigerant temperature sensor 33a detects the refrigerant temperature on the outlet side of the indoor heat exchanger 6. When the indoor heat exchanger 6 functions as a condenser, the refrigerant temperature sensor 33b detects the refrigerant temperature on the outlet side of the indoor heat exchanger 6, and the refrigerant temperature sensor 33a detects the refrigerant temperature on the inlet side of the indoor heat exchanger 6. The

refrigerant temperature sensors

32a, 32b, 33a, and 33b are connected to the control device 20 via signal lines not shown. The

pressure sensors

31a and 31b are connected to the control device 20 via signal lines not shown.

Although not shown, the outdoor unit 12 is provided with an outdoor air temperature sensor that detects the outdoor air temperature, and the indoor unit 11 is provided with a room temperature sensor that detects the room temperature and a humidity sensor that detects the room humidity. The indoor unit 11 may also be provided with an air volume sensor that detects the air volume at the air outlet. These sensors may be connected to the control device 20 via signal lines (not shown). This allows data detected by each sensor to be sent to the control device 20.

The control device 20 performs arithmetic processing using the data transmitted from each sensor. The details of the arithmetic processing will be described later. The control device 20 controls the compressor 2,

fans

7 and 8, and expansion valve 5 using control data created based on the arithmetic processing.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the arrangement of indoor units in a target space in embodiment 1. As shown in FIG. 3, target space TS includes air conditioning (refrigerant) system 200A and air conditioning (refrigerant) system 200B. A plurality of indoor units 11 are arranged in air conditioning (refrigerant) system 200A and air conditioning (refrigerant) system 200B. The number and arrangement of indoor units 11 may be any arrangement, and the number of air conditioning (refrigerant) systems may be increased.

Next, the relationship between the difference between the suction temperature and the set temperature in

indoor units

110A, 110B during cooling operation, and the target evaporation temperature will be described. Figure 4 is a graph showing the relationship between the difference between the suction temperature and the set temperature in

indoor units

110A, 110B, and the target evaporation temperature. The suction temperature is the indoor temperature detected by an indoor temperature sensor provided in the indoor unit 11. The set temperature is an arbitrary temperature set by the user via an input device such as a remote control. The target evaporation temperature is the target temperature for the refrigerant flowing through indoor heat exchanger 6, which functions as an evaporator.

As shown in FIG. 4, when the difference between the suction temperature and the set temperature in

indoor units

110A, 110B is small, the target evaporation temperature is high. Conversely, when the difference between the suction temperature and the set temperature in

indoor units

110A, 110B is large, the target evaporation temperature is low. In other words, when the difference between the suction temperature and the set temperature is small, the target evaporation temperature can be set higher than when the difference between the suction temperature and the set temperature is large. Being able to set the target evaporation temperature high means that the change in the operating frequency of compressor 2 can be controlled more gently. Therefore, when the target evaporation temperature is set high, a greater energy saving effect can be obtained than when the target evaporation temperature is set low.

FIG. 5 is a graph showing the relationship between time and target evaporation temperature. FIG. 5(a) shows the relationship between time and target evaporation temperature when compressor 2 is controlled in the first mode during normal operation. FIG. 5(b) shows the relationship between time and target evaporation temperature when compressor 2 is controlled in the second mode during energy saving operation. Thermo On in the figure indicates that compressor 2 is started, and Thermo Off indicates that compressor 2 is stopped. The control device 20 executes control in the first mode or the second mode by controlling the rotation speed of compressor 2. Note that Thermo On also controls the rotation speed so as to increase it from zero to a preset value when compressor 2 is started, and can therefore also be said to be an operation of setting the rotation speed.

As shown in FIG. 5(a), in the first mode, the control device 20 maintains the refrigerant temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 6, which functions as an evaporator, at a target value a [°C] for a predetermined certain grace period β1 [min] after the grace period β1 [min] has elapsed. The control device 20 controls the target value of the refrigerant temperature to be changed from a [°C] to b [°C], which is higher than a [°C], after the grace period β1 [min] has elapsed. β1 is, for example, 10 [min]. The refrigerant temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 6 is changed from a [°C] to b [°C]. The control device 20 turns the compressor 2 thermo-off after maintaining the target value of the refrigerant temperature at b [°C] for a certain period of time. Thereafter, the control device 20 repeats the control of changing the target evaporation temperature from a [°C] to b [°C], thereby repeatedly turning the compressor 2 thermo-on and thermo-off.

As shown in FIG. 5(b), in the second mode, after thermo-on, the control device 20 controls the refrigerant temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 6 to change from the target value a [°C] to b [°C] higher than a [°C] without providing a grace period β1 [min]. As a result, the refrigerant temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 6 changes from a [°C] to b [°C]. The control device 20 thermo-offs the compressor 2 after maintaining the target value of the refrigerant temperature at b [°C] for a certain period of time. In the second mode, there is no grace period β1 [min], and the period during which the target value of the refrigerant temperature is b [°C] is longer than in the first mode. In other words, in the second mode, the period during which the target value of the refrigerant temperature is controlled at b [°C] is longer than in the first mode, and the number of thermo-on and thermo-off of the compressor 2 is reduced accordingly.

In FIG. 5, a [°C] is, for example, 0 [°C], and b [°C] is, for example, 9 [°C]. As shown in FIG. 4, when the target evaporation temperature is set high, a higher energy saving effect can be obtained than when the target evaporation temperature is set low. For this reason, the second mode, in which the period during which the target value of the refrigerant temperature is b [°C] is longer than the first mode, can be said to have a higher energy saving effect.

Here, we will explain in detail the first mode of normal operation and the second mode of energy saving operation. In the first mode, the refrigerant temperature is set low immediately after the compressor 2 is turned on, so that the indoor temperature can be brought closer to the set temperature set by the user in a short period of time. In other words, the first mode is an operation in which the time spent rapidly cooling at a low temperature is extended, and then the temperature is gradually changed to the set temperature. Therefore, the first mode can reduce discomfort and improve comfort in a short period of time.

In the second mode, energy saving effects are achieved when an air conditioner 1 with a low air conditioning load rate is used. A low air conditioning load rate means that the indoor temperature can be effectively lowered even with low power consumption. By using an air conditioner 1 with a low air conditioning load rate, it is possible to gradually process the indoor heat load at a high target evaporation temperature, and the period during which control is performed at a high target evaporation temperature can be extended. In other words, the second mode is an operation that eliminates the initial rapid cooling time, and cools the indoor temperature over a long period of time until it reaches the set temperature. As a result, in the second mode, the number of times the compressor 2 is turned on and off can be reduced more than in the first mode, and a high energy saving effect can be achieved when an air conditioner 1 with a low air conditioning load rate is used.

Next, the control contents executed by the control device 20 will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the control during cooling operation in embodiment 1. The process of the flowchart in FIG. 6 is repeatedly called and executed as a subroutine from the main routine in the control of the control device 20. In FIG. 6, the process during cooling operation will be described.

First, in step S (hereinafter simply referred to as "S") 11, the control device 20 acquires operation data during cooling operation from multiple sensors, which are detection devices. Next, the control device 20 calculates the air conditioning processing capacity (generated air conditioning load) (S12). Here, the air conditioning processing capacity refers to the processing capacity of the air conditioner 1. Therefore, the air conditioning processing capacity is equal to the generated air conditioning load in that the air conditioning load generated in the room is changed by exerting the processing capacity. The calculation of the air conditioning processing capacity is obtained, for example, by the method described in Patent No. 6739671. Specifically, the control device 20 obtains the refrigerant flow rate in the outdoor unit 12 from a data table showing the relationship between the rotation speed of the compressor 2, the high pressure detected by the pressure sensor 31b, the low pressure detected by the pressure sensor 31a, and the refrigerant flow rate.

The control device 20 calculates the Cv value from the opening of the expansion valve 5 and the expansion valve characteristic data table. The Cv value is a unique coefficient that indicates the ease of fluid flow. The control device 20 uses the Cv value to calculate the refrigerant flow rate in the indoor unit 11. Specifically, the control device 20 calculates the refrigerant flow rate of the target indoor unit 11 = refrigerant flow rate of the outdoor unit 12 x [Cv value of the target indoor unit 11 / total value of the Cv values of the indoor units 11]. Next, the control device 20 calculates the evaporator inlet specific enthalpy using the liquid refrigerant temperature at the refrigerant outlet of the outdoor unit 12 and the evaporator inlet specific enthalpy data table. The control device 20 calculates the evaporator outlet specific enthalpy using the liquid refrigerant temperature and gas refrigerant temperature of the indoor unit 11 and the evaporator outlet specific enthalpy data table. The control device 20 calculates the air conditioning processing capacity from the relational equation: air conditioning processing capacity [kW] = refrigerant flow rate of indoor unit 11 [kg/h]/3600 x [evaporator outlet specific enthalpy - evaporator inlet specific enthalpy] [kJ/kg]. The control device 20 adds up the air conditioning processing capacities of each indoor unit 11 to calculate the air conditioning processing capacity of the entire indoor unit 110A. The control device 20 calculates the air conditioning processing capacity of the entire indoor unit 110B in the same way and adds them up to calculate the air conditioning processing capacity of the air conditioner 1.

Then, the control device 20 calculates the ratio of the air conditioning processing capacity to the rated capacity of the air conditioning device 1 = [air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load) / rated capacity] (S13). Next, the control device 20 determines whether there are multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS (S14). The control device 20 determines whether there are multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS, for example, by receiving data input by the user indicating which air conditioning (refrigerant) system is to be operated.

If the control device 20 determines in S14 that there are not multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS (only one air conditioning (refrigerant) system is in operation) (NO in S14), it determines whether or not air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity≦α1 (S15). α1 is an arbitrary setting value that can be set by the user for determining whether or not to perform energy saving control during cooling operation. If the control device 20 determines in S15 that air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity>α1 (NO in S15), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the first mode, which is normal operation (S17), and returns processing from the subroutine to the main routine. The first mode is a mode in which a grace period β1 is set.

If the control device 20 determines in S15 that the air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity is less than or equal to α1 (YES in S15), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the second mode, which is an energy-saving operation (S16), and returns the process from the subroutine to the main routine. The second mode is a mode in which the refrigerant temperature is changed without providing a grace period β1.

If the control device 20 determines in S14 that there are multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS (two air conditioning (refrigerant) systems are in operation) (YES in S14), it determines whether or not air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity ≦ α2 (S18). α2 is an arbitrary setting value that can be set by the user for determining whether or not to perform energy saving control during cooling operation. If the control device 20 determines in S18 that air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity > α2 (NO in S18), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the first mode, which is normal operation (S20), and returns processing from the subroutine to the main routine. The first mode is a mode in which a grace period β1 is set.

If the control device 20 determines in S18 that the air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity is less than or equal to α2 (YES in S18), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the second mode, which is an energy-saving operation (S19), and returns the process from the subroutine to the main routine. The second mode is a mode in which the refrigerant temperature is changed without providing a grace period β1.

In the air conditioner 1, the number of times the compressor 2 is turned on and off in the second mode is roughly halved compared to the first mode. This allows the air conditioner 1 to extend the time it takes to reach the target evaporation temperature (e.g., b [°C] in Figure 5), enabling energy-saving operation. Furthermore, the judgment value for the ratio of air conditioning processing capacities in the air conditioner 1 is set to α1 < α2. For example, α1 is 0.7 and α2 is 0.8.

Here, a large value of α means that there is a margin of air conditioning processing capacity. In other words, when there are multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS, the threshold standard can be relaxed more easily than when there are not multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS, so the value of α is set large. This makes it easier for the air conditioning device 1 to enter energy-saving operation when there are multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS than when there are not multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS.

In this way, the air conditioning device 1 can achieve energy conservation effects when an air conditioning device 1 with a low air conditioning load factor is used, and can be operated in a way that takes into account the air conditioning of the target space TS using multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems.

During heating operation, the indoor heat exchanger 6 functions as a condenser and the outdoor heat exchanger 4 functions as an evaporator by switching the four-way valve 3 shown in FIG. 2 to the dotted line side. During heating operation, a target condensation temperature (a temperature that is a target value of the refrigerant flowing through the indoor heat exchanger 6 functioning as a condenser) is used instead of the target evaporation temperature shown in FIG. 5. For example, referring to FIG. 5, the control device 20 maintains the temperature of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 6 functioning as a condenser at a target value a [°C] for a predetermined certain grace period β2 [min] after the thermo-on in the first mode. The control device 20 controls the target value of the refrigerant temperature to be changed from a [°C] to b [°C] lower than a [°C] after the grace period β2 [min] has elapsed. The temperature of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 6 is changed from a [°C] to b [°C]. The control device 20 thermo-offs the compressor 2 after maintaining the target value of the refrigerant temperature at b [°C] for a certain period. Thereafter, the control device 20 repeatedly changes the target condensing temperature from a [°C] to b [°C], thereby repeatedly turning the compressor 2 on and off.

In the second mode, the control device 20 controls the refrigerant temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 6 to change from the target value a1 [°C] to b1 [°C], which is lower than a1 [°C], without providing a grace period β2 [min] after the thermo-on. As a result, the refrigerant temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 6 changes from a1 [°C] to b1 [°C]. The control device 20 turns the compressor 2 thermo-off after maintaining the target value of the refrigerant temperature at b1 [°C] for a certain period of time. In the second mode, the grace period β2 [min] is not provided, and the period during which the target value of the refrigerant temperature is b1 [°C] is longer than in the first mode. In other words, in the second mode, the period during which the target value of the refrigerant temperature is controlled at b1 [°C] is longer than in the first mode, and the number of thermo-on and thermo-off of the compressor 2 is reduced accordingly. As a result, the air conditioning device 1 can extend the time to reach the target condensing temperature, and can operate in an energy-saving manner.

In this way, the temperature relationship during heating operation is the opposite to that during cooling operation. During heating operation, the control device 20 executes the processes corresponding to S11 to S20 in the same way as during cooling operation.

Embodiment 2.
The air conditioning device 1 of the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the target space TS is divided into an interior zone IZ and a perimeter zone PZ. The following mainly describes the parts that are different from the first embodiment, and the same configuration as the first embodiment is omitted. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the indoor units 11 in the target space TS in the second embodiment. Here, the interior zone is the central part of a room in a building or the like, and is an area where the effect of air conditioning is large and the temperature is not easily affected by sunlight, outside air, etc. The perimeter zone is an area that is easily affected by outside air such as near a window and where the load of air conditioning is large.

As shown in FIG. 7, the perimeter zone PZ is an area within the target space TS that corresponds to a first area close to the boundary between the target space TS and the outside of the target space TS. As shown in FIG. 7, the interior zone IZ is an area that corresponds to a second area that is more inward than the perimeter zone PZ. As shown in FIG. 7, the interior zone IZ is composed of air conditioning (refrigerant) system 201A and air conditioning (refrigerant) system 201B. As shown in FIG. 7, the perimeter zone PZ is composed of air conditioning (refrigerant) system 201C and air conditioning (refrigerant) system 201D. The number of air conditioning (refrigerant) systems included in each zone may be one, or three or more.

Next, the control contents executed by the control device 20 will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the control during cooling operation in embodiment 2. The process of the flowchart in FIG. 8 is repeatedly called and executed as a subroutine from the main routine in the control of the control device 20. In FIG. 8, the process during cooling operation will be described.

First, in step S31, the control device 20 acquires operating data during cooling operation from multiple sensors, which are detection devices. Next, the control device 20 calculates the air conditioning processing capacity (generated air conditioning load) (S32). Next, the control device 20 determines the ratio of the air conditioning processing capacity to the rated capacity of the air conditioner 1 = [air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load) / rated capacity] (S33). Next, the control device 20 determines whether there are multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS (S34). The control device 20 determines whether there are multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation, for example, by receiving data input by the user indicating which air conditioning (refrigerant) system is to be operated.

If the control device 20 determines in S34 that there are not multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS (only one air conditioning (refrigerant) system is in operation) (NO in S34), it determines whether or not air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity≦α1 (S35). α1 is an arbitrary setting value that can be set by the user for determining whether or not to perform energy saving control during cooling operation. If the control device 20 determines in S35 that air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity>α1 (NO in S35), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the first mode, which is normal operation (S37), and returns processing from the subroutine to the main routine. The first mode is a mode in which a grace period β1 is set.

If the control device 20 determines in S35 that air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity≦α1 (YES in S35), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the second mode, which is energy saving operation (S36), and returns processing from the subroutine to the main routine. The second mode is a mode in which the refrigerant temperature is changed without providing a grace period β1. Here, the processing of S36 is based on the premise that the interior zone IZ is in operation, and excludes the case where only the perimeter zone PZ is in operation. This is because when only the perimeter zone PZ is in operation, there is a high air conditioning load, so a transition to energy saving operation is not made.

If the control device 20 determines in S34 that there are multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS (two air conditioning (refrigerant) systems are in operation in the interior zone IZ) (YES in S34), it determines whether the air conditioning includes the perimeter zone PZ (S38). The control device 20 determines whether the air conditioning (refrigerant) system of the perimeter zone PZ is in operation, for example, by receiving data input by the user indicating whether the air conditioning (refrigerant) system of the perimeter zone PZ is in operation. If the control device 20 determines in S38 that the air conditioning includes the perimeter zone PZ (YES in S38), it determines whether air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity≦α3 (S39). α3 is an arbitrary setting value that can be set by the user to determine whether or not to perform energy saving control during cooling operation.

If the control device 20 determines in S39 that air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity>α3 (NO in S39), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the first mode, which is normal operation (S41), and returns processing from the subroutine to the main routine. If the control device 20 determines in S39 that air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity≦α3 (YES in S39), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the second mode, which is energy saving operation (S40), and returns processing from the subroutine to the main routine.

If the control device 20 determines in S38 that the air conditioning does not include the perimeter zone PZ (NO in S38), it determines whether or not the air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity is less than or equal to α2 (S42). α2 is an arbitrary setting value that can be set by the user to determine whether or not to perform energy saving control during cooling operation.

If the control device 20 determines in S42 that air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity>α2 (NO in S42), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the first mode, which is normal operation (S44), and returns processing from the subroutine to the main routine. If the control device 20 determines in S42 that air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity≦α2 (YES in S42), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the second mode, which is energy saving operation (S43), and returns processing from the subroutine to the main routine.

The judgment value of the ratio of the air conditioning processing capacity in the air conditioning device 1 of the second embodiment is set as α3<α1<α2. For example, α1 is 0.7, α2 is 0.9, and α3 is 0.6. Here, a large value of α means that there is a margin in the air conditioning processing capacity. On the other hand, a small value of α means that there is no margin in the air conditioning processing capacity and the temperature needs to be changed quickly. In the process of FIG. 8, when there are not multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS (when one air conditioning (refrigerant) system is in operation in the interior zone IZ), the control device 20 switches between the first mode and the second mode using α1 as a medium threshold. Also, in the process of FIG. 8, when there are multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS (when two air conditioning (refrigerant) systems are in operation in the interior zone IZ), the control device 20 executes a judgment as to whether the air conditioning (refrigerant) system in the perimeter zone PZ is in operation.

In the process of FIG. 8, when the air conditioning (refrigerant) system of the perimeter zone PZ is in operation, the control device 20 strengthens the threshold to perform a quick temperature change, and switches between the first and second modes of control using α3, which is lower than α1, as the threshold. On the other hand, when the air conditioning (refrigerant) system of the perimeter zone PZ is not in operation, the control device 20 relaxes the threshold, and switches between the first and second modes of control using α2, which is higher than α1, as the threshold.

In this way, the air conditioning device 1 can achieve energy conservation effects when an air conditioning device 1 with a low air conditioning load factor is used, and can be operated with consideration given to air conditioning the target space TS with multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems. Furthermore, the air conditioning device 1 switches between the first and second control modes using different thresholds depending on whether the air conditioning (refrigerant) system of the perimeter zone PZ is in operation, so can be operated with consideration given to the air conditioning (refrigerant) system of the perimeter zone PZ.

During heating operation, the four-way valve 3 shown in FIG. 2 is switched to the dotted line side, so that the indoor heat exchanger 6 functions as a condenser and the outdoor heat exchanger 4 functions as an evaporator. During heating operation, the temperature relationship is reversed compared to cooling operation, as described above. During heating operation, the control device 20 executes the processes corresponding to S31 to S44 in the same way as during cooling operation.

Embodiment 3.
The air conditioning device 1 of the third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that an area closed by a wall is provided in the target space TS. The following mainly describes the parts that are different from the first embodiment, and the description of the same configuration as the first embodiment is omitted. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the indoor units 11 in the target space TS in the third embodiment. The target space TS of the third embodiment is provided with three areas KS closed by walls. In the areas KS, an independent air conditioning (refrigerant) system is provided in each room as a third air conditioning (refrigerant) system. The areas KS are assumed to be, for example, a room such as a conference room in a building.

As shown in FIG. 9, a fourth air conditioning (refrigerant) system consisting of air conditioning (refrigerant) system 202A and air conditioning (refrigerant) system 202B is disposed in an area within target space TS that is not closed off by a wall. Note that the area in which air conditioning (refrigerant) system 202A and air conditioning (refrigerant) system 202B are disposed can also be said to be closed off by a wall when viewed from the perspective of the building as a whole, but below it will be described as an area closed off by a wall. Area KS may be provided with only one air conditioning (refrigerant) system, and the number of air conditioning (refrigerant) systems can be changed as appropriate.

Next, the control contents executed by the control device 20 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the control during cooling operation in embodiment 3. The process of the flowchart in FIG. 10 is repeatedly called and executed as a subroutine from the main routine in the control of the control device 20. In FIG. 10, the process during cooling operation will be described.

First, in step S51, the control device 20 acquires operating data during cooling operation from multiple sensors, which are detection devices. Next, the control device 20 calculates the air conditioning processing capacity (generated air conditioning load) (S52). Next, the control device 20 determines the ratio of the air conditioning processing capacity to the rated capacity of the air conditioner 1 = [air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load) / rated capacity] (S53). Next, the control device 20 determines whether there are multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS (S54). The control device 20 determines whether there are multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation, for example, by receiving data input by the user indicating which air conditioning (refrigerant) system is to be operated.

If the control device 20 determines in S54 that there are not multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS (only one air conditioning (refrigerant) system is in operation) (NO in S54), it determines whether or not air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity≦α1 (S55). α1 is an arbitrary setting value that can be set by the user for determining whether or not to perform energy saving control during cooling operation. If the control device 20 determines in S55 that air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity>α1 (NO in S55), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the first mode, which is normal operation (S57), and returns processing from the subroutine to the main routine. The first mode is a mode in which a grace period β1 is set.

If the control device 20 determines in S55 that air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity≦α1 (YES in S55), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the second mode, which is energy saving operation (S56), and returns the process from the subroutine to the main routine. The second mode is a mode in which the refrigerant temperature is changed without providing a grace period β1. Here, the process of S54 is based on the premise that the fourth air conditioning (refrigerant) system in the area not enclosed by a wall is in operation, and excludes the case where only the third air conditioning (refrigerant) system located in area KS is in operation.

If the control device 20 determines in S54 that there are multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS (two air conditioning (refrigerant) systems are operating in an area not enclosed by a wall) (YES in S54), it determines whether the air conditioning includes an area KS enclosed by a wall such as a conference room (S58). The control device 20 determines whether the air conditioning (refrigerant) system of the area KS is operating by receiving data input by the user, for example, indicating whether the air conditioning (refrigerant) system of the area KS is operating. If the control device 20 determines in S58 that the air conditioning includes an area KS enclosed by a wall such as a conference room (YES in S58), it determines whether air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity≦α3 (S59). α3 is an arbitrary setting value that can be set by the user for determining whether to perform energy saving control during cooling operation.

If the control device 20 determines in S59 that air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity>α3 (NO in S59), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the first mode, which is normal operation (S61), and returns processing from the subroutine to the main routine. If the control device 20 determines in S59 that air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity≦α3 (YES in S59), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the second mode, which is energy saving operation (S60), and returns processing from the subroutine to the main routine.

If the control device 20 determines in S58 that the air conditioning does not include an area KS enclosed by walls such as a conference room (NO in S58), it determines whether or not the air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity is less than or equal to α2 (S62). α2 is an arbitrary setting value that can be set by the user to determine whether or not to perform energy saving control during cooling operation.

If the control device 20 determines in S62 that air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity>α2 (NO in S62), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the first mode, which is normal operation (S64), and returns processing from the subroutine to the main routine. If the control device 20 determines in S62 that air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity≦α2 (YES in S62), it sets the compressor 2 to be controlled in the second mode, which is energy saving operation (S63), and returns processing from the subroutine to the main routine.

The judgment value of the ratio of the air conditioning processing capacity in the air conditioning device 1 of the third embodiment is set as α3<α1<α2. For example, α1 is 0.7, α2 is 0.8, and α3 is 0.6. Here, a large value of α means that there is a margin in the air conditioning processing capacity. On the other hand, a small value of α means that there is no margin in the air conditioning processing capacity and it is necessary to change the temperature quickly. In the process of FIG. 10, when there are not multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS (when one air conditioning (refrigerant) system is in operation in an area not closed by a wall), the control device 20 switches between the first mode and the second mode using α1 as a medium threshold. Also, in the process of FIG. 10, when there are multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS (when two air conditioning (refrigerant) systems are in operation in an area not closed by a wall), the control device 20 executes a judgment as to whether or not the air conditioning (refrigerant) system in the area KS closed by a wall such as a conference room is in operation.

In the process of FIG. 10, when the air conditioning (refrigerant) system of an area KS enclosed by walls such as a conference room is in operation, the control device 20 strengthens the threshold to achieve rapid temperature changes, and switches between the first and second modes of control using α3, which is lower than α1, as the threshold. On the other hand, when the air conditioning (refrigerant) system of an area KS enclosed by walls such as a conference room is not in operation, the control device 20 relaxes the threshold, and switches between the first and second modes of control using α2, which is higher than α1, as the threshold.

In this way, the air conditioning device 1 can achieve energy conservation effects when an air conditioning device 1 with a low air conditioning load factor is used, and can be operated with consideration given to air conditioning the target space TS with multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems. Furthermore, the air conditioning device 1 switches between the first and second modes of control using different thresholds depending on whether the air conditioning (refrigerant) system of an area KS enclosed by walls, such as a conference room, is in operation, so it can be operated with consideration given to the air conditioning (refrigerant) system of an area KS enclosed by walls, such as a conference room.

During heating operation, the four-way valve 3 shown in FIG. 2 is switched to the dotted line side, so that the indoor heat exchanger 6 functions as a condenser and the outdoor heat exchanger 4 functions as an evaporator. During heating operation, the temperature relationship is reversed compared to cooling operation, as described above. During heating operation, the control device 20 executes the processes corresponding to S51 to S64 in the same way as during cooling operation.

Embodiment 4.
The air conditioning system 100 of the fourth embodiment is different in that the air conditioning device 1 is connected to the server device 40 via a network 9. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning system 100 in the fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, the server device 40 is configured to include a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 41, a memory 42 (ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory)), and an input/output device (not shown) for inputting and outputting various signals. The CPU 41 expands a program stored in the ROM into the RAM or the like and executes it. The program stored in the ROM is a program in which the processing procedure of the server device 40 is written. This control is not limited to processing by software, and can also be processed by dedicated hardware (electronic circuitry).

In the air conditioning system 100, some of the processing executed by the control device 20 of the air conditioning device 1 is executed by the server device 40. The processing executed by the control device 20 of the air conditioning device 1 and the server device 40 is described below. The control device 20 transmits detection data during operation of the

refrigerant circuits

10A, 10B detected by multiple sensors to the server device 40. The server device 40 calculates the air conditioning processing capacity exerted by the air conditioning device 1 based on the received detection data using the processing flow shown in Figure 6 or the like. The server device 40 determines whether there are multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS by receiving data input by the user indicating which air conditioning (refrigerant) system is to be operated.

The server device 40 determines whether the ratio (air conditioning processing capacity (air conditioning load)/rated capacity) of the air conditioning capacity calculated using different thresholds for when there are multiple air conditioning (refrigerant) systems in operation in the target space TS and when there are not is equal to or less than the threshold. If the ratio is greater than a preset threshold, the server device 40 creates control data to operate each compressor 2 in the first mode, and if the ratio is equal to or less than the threshold, creates control data to operate each compressor 2 in the second mode.

The server device 40 transmits the created control data to the control device 20. Based on the received control data, the control device 20 controls the compressor 2 to operate in the first mode or the second mode. This reduces the processing load on the control device 20.

<Modification>
In the air conditioner 1, the control device 20 controls the rotation speed of the compressor 2 to execute control in the first mode or the second mode. The control device 20 may control the rotation speed of the fan 8 in addition to the control of the compressor 2. The control device 20 may execute control to change the target value of the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the indoor heat exchanger 6 from a first temperature to a second temperature higher than the first temperature by reducing the rotation speed of the fan 8 during cooling operation. The control device 20 may execute control to change the target value of the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the indoor heat exchanger 6 from a first temperature to a second temperature lower than the first temperature by reducing the rotation speed of the fan 8 during heating operation. The air conditioner 1 may further execute control to change the target temperature using the fan 7 of the outdoor unit 12. The air conditioner 1 may execute control to execute the first mode or the second mode only by controlling the

fans

7 and 8.

The air conditioning device 1 and the air conditioning system 100 have been described as not providing a grace period in the second mode. However, the air conditioning device 1 and the air conditioning system 100 may also provide a grace period in the second mode that is shorter than that in the first mode.

<Summary>
The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner 1 that conditions a target space TS using multiple air conditioning systems. Each of the multiple air conditioning systems has a

refrigerant circuit

10A, 10B that is composed of an outdoor heat exchanger 4 arranged outside the target space TS, an indoor heat exchanger 6 arranged inside the target space TS, an expansion valve 5, and a compressor 2. In the

refrigerant circuit

10A, 10B in each air conditioning system, refrigerant flows through the compressor 2, the outdoor heat exchanger 4, the expansion valve 5, the indoor heat exchanger 6, and the compressor 2 in this order during cooling operation. The air conditioner 1 includes multiple sensors as detection devices that detect data during operation of each

refrigerant circuit

10A, 10B, and a control device 20 that controls each

refrigerant circuit

10A, 10B. The control device 20 calculates the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 1 from the data detected by the detection device, and controls each compressor 2 to operate in a first mode when the ratio of the calculated air conditioning capacity to the rated capacity of the air conditioner 1 is greater than a preset threshold value, and controls each compressor 2 to operate in a second mode when the ratio is equal to or less than the threshold value. The first mode is an operation mode in which control is performed to change the target value of the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the corresponding indoor heat exchanger 6 from a first temperature to a second temperature different from the first temperature after a certain grace period has elapsed since the start of operation of each compressor 2. The second mode is an operation mode in which control is performed to change the target value of the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the corresponding indoor heat exchanger 6 from a first temperature to a second temperature after a grace period shorter than that of the first mode after the start of operation of each compressor 2. When less than a specific number of air conditioning systems among the multiple air conditioning systems are in operation, the control device 20 performs control using a first threshold value as a threshold value, and when a specific number or more of air conditioning systems are in operation, the control device 20 performs control using a second threshold value greater than the first threshold value as a threshold value.

Preferably, the multiple air conditioning systems include a first air conditioning system in which an area corresponding to a first area close to the boundary between the target space TS and the outside of the target space TS is arranged in a perimeter zone PZ within the target space TS, and a second air conditioning system arranged in an interior zone IZ corresponding to a second area inside the first area (perimeter zone PZ). When the control device 20 determines that the refrigerant circuits of the first air conditioning system and the second air conditioning system are operating, it executes control using a third threshold value that is equal to or lower than the first threshold value, and when it determines that only the refrigerant circuit of the second air conditioning system is operating, it executes control using the second threshold value.

Preferably, the multiple air conditioning systems include a third air conditioning system included in an area KS enclosed by a wall in the target space TS, and a fourth air conditioning system that does not include an area KS enclosed by a wall in the target space TS. When the control device 20 determines that the refrigerant circuits of the third and fourth air conditioning systems are operating, it executes control using a third threshold value that is equal to or lower than the first threshold value, and when it determines that only the refrigerant circuit of the fourth air conditioning system is operating, it executes control using the second threshold value.

Preferably, the second temperature is higher than the first temperature. Each indoor heat exchanger 6 functions as an evaporator during cooling operation. During cooling operation in the second mode, the control device 20 executes control to change the target value of the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through each indoor heat exchanger 6 from the first temperature to the second temperature.

Preferably, each of the multiple air conditioning systems further includes a fan 8 that supplies air for heat exchange with the refrigerant flowing through the indoor heat exchanger 6. The control device 20 executes control to change the target value of the refrigerant temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature by reducing the rotation speed of each fan 8.

Preferably, the second temperature is lower than the first temperature. Each indoor heat exchanger 6 functions as a condenser during heating operation. During heating operation in the second mode, the control device 20 executes control to change the target value of the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through each indoor heat exchanger 6 from the first temperature to the second temperature.

The air conditioning system 100 of the present disclosure comprises an air conditioning apparatus 1 that conditions a target space TS using multiple air conditioning systems, and a server device 40 connected to the air conditioning apparatus 1 via a network 9. Each of the multiple air conditioning systems has a

refrigerant circuit

10A, 10B composed of an outdoor heat exchanger 4 arranged outside the target space TS, an indoor heat exchanger 6 arranged within the target space TS, an expansion valve 5, and a compressor 2. In the

refrigerant circuits

10A, 10B in each air conditioning system, refrigerant flows through the compressor 2, outdoor heat exchanger 4, expansion valve 5, indoor heat exchanger 6, and compressor 2 in this order during cooling operation. The air conditioning apparatus 1 comprises multiple sensors as detection devices that detect data during operation of each

refrigerant circuit

10A, 10B, and a control device 20 that controls each

refrigerant circuit

10A, 10B. The server device 40 calculates the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioner 1 from the data detected by the detection device, and creates first control data for operating each compressor 2 in a first mode when the ratio of the calculated air conditioning capacity to the rated capacity of the air conditioner 1 is greater than a preset threshold value, and creates second control data for operating each compressor 2 in a second mode when the ratio is equal to or less than the threshold value. The first control data is control data for changing the target value of the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the corresponding indoor heat exchanger 6 from a first temperature to a second temperature different from the first temperature after a certain grace period has elapsed since the start of operation of each compressor 2. The second control data is control data for changing the target value of the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the corresponding indoor heat exchanger 6 from a first temperature to a second temperature after a grace period shorter than the first mode from the start of operation of each compressor 2. The server device 40 creates control data using a first threshold value as a threshold value when less than a specific number of the multiple air conditioning systems are in operation, and creates control data using a second threshold value greater than the first threshold value as a threshold value when a specific number or more of the multiple air conditioning systems are in operation.

In this way, the air conditioning device 1 and air conditioning system 100 disclosed herein can achieve energy conservation effects when using an air conditioning device 1 with a low air conditioning load rate, and can also be operated in a way that takes into account the target space TS being air-conditioned by multiple air conditioning systems.

The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present disclosure is indicated by the claims, not by the description of the embodiments above, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

1 air conditioning unit, 2 compressor, 3 four-way valve, 4 outdoor heat exchanger, 5 expansion valve, 6 indoor heat exchanger, 7, 8 fan, 9 network, 10A, 10B refrigerant circuit, 11 indoor unit, 12 outdoor unit, 20 control device, 31a, 31b pressure sensor, 32a, 32b, 33a, 33b refrigerant temperature sensor, 40 server device, 100 air conditioning system, 110A, 110B indoor unit, 200A, 200B, 201A, 201B, 201C, 201D, 202A, 202B air conditioning (refrigerant) system, IZ interior zone, KS area, PZ perimeter zone, TS target space.

Claims

An air conditioning apparatus that conditions a target space using multiple air conditioning systems,
Each of the plurality of air conditioning systems has a refrigerant circuit including a first heat exchanger arranged outside the target space, a second heat exchanger arranged within the target space, an expansion valve, and a compressor;
In the refrigerant circuit in each air conditioning system, during cooling operation, the refrigerant flows through the compressor, the first heat exchanger, the expansion valve, the second heat exchanger, and the compressor in this order;
The air conditioning device includes:
A detection device for detecting data during operation of each refrigerant circuit;
A control device for controlling each refrigerant circuit,
The control device calculates an air conditioning processing capacity exhibited by the air conditioning device from the data detected by the detection device, and when a ratio of the calculated air conditioning processing capacity to a rated capacity of the air conditioning device is greater than a preset threshold value, controls each compressor to operate in a first mode, and when the ratio is equal to or less than the threshold value, controls each compressor to operate in a second mode;
the first mode is an operation mode in which control is performed to change a target value of a temperature of a refrigerant flowing through a corresponding second heat exchanger after a certain grace period has elapsed since the start of operation of each compressor from a first temperature to a second temperature different from the first temperature;
the second mode is an operation mode in which control is performed to change a target value of a temperature of the refrigerant flowing through a corresponding second heat exchanger from the first temperature to the second temperature after a grace period that is shorter than that in the first mode from the start of operation of each compressor,
The control device executes control using a first threshold value as the threshold value when less than a specific number of the multiple air conditioning systems are in operation, and executes control using a second threshold value greater than the first threshold value as the threshold value when the specific number or more of the air conditioning systems are in operation.
the plurality of air conditioning systems include a first air conditioning system arranged in a first region within the target space close to a boundary between the target space and an outside of the target space, and a second air conditioning system arranged in a second region inside the first region,
The control device includes:
When it is determined that the refrigerant circuits of the first air conditioning system and the second air conditioning system are operating, control is performed using a third threshold value that is equal to or lower than the first threshold value;
The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein when it is determined that only the refrigerant circuit of the second air-conditioning system is operating, control is executed using the second threshold value.
The plurality of air conditioning systems include a third air conditioning system included in an area enclosed by a wall in the target space, and a fourth air conditioning system not including an area enclosed by a wall in the target space,
The control device includes:
When it is determined that the refrigerant circuits of the third air conditioning system and the fourth air conditioning system are operating, control is performed using a third threshold value that is equal to or lower than the first threshold value;
The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein, when it is determined that only the refrigerant circuit of the fourth air-conditioning system is operating, control using the second threshold value is executed.
the second temperature is greater than the first temperature;
Each second heat exchanger functions as an evaporator during cooling operation;
4. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control device executes control to change a target value of a temperature of the refrigerant flowing through each second heat exchanger from the first temperature to the second temperature during cooling operation in the second mode.
Each of the plurality of air conditioning systems further includes a fan that supplies air that exchanges heat with the refrigerant flowing through the second heat exchanger,
The air conditioner according to claim 4 , wherein the control device executes control to change a target value of the refrigerant temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature by reducing a rotation speed of each fan.
the second temperature is lower than the first temperature;
Each second heat exchanger functions as a condenser during heating operation;
4. The air conditioning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control device executes control to change a target value of a temperature of the refrigerant flowing through each second heat exchanger from the first temperature to the second temperature during heating operation in the second mode.
Each of the plurality of air conditioning systems further includes a fan that supplies air that exchanges heat with the refrigerant flowing through the second heat exchanger,
The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the control device executes control to change a target value of the refrigerant temperature from the first temperature to the second temperature by reducing a rotation speed of each fan.
An air conditioning device that conditions a target space using a plurality of air conditioning systems;
A server device connected to the air conditioning apparatus via a network,
Each of the plurality of air conditioning systems has a refrigerant circuit including a first heat exchanger arranged outside the target space, a second heat exchanger arranged within the target space, an expansion valve, and a compressor;
In the refrigerant circuit in each air conditioning system, during cooling operation, the refrigerant flows through the compressor, the first heat exchanger, the expansion valve, the second heat exchanger, and the compressor in this order;
The air conditioning device includes:
A detection device for detecting data during operation of each refrigerant circuit;
A control device for controlling each refrigerant circuit,
the server device calculates an air conditioning processing capacity exerted by the air conditioning apparatus from the data detected by the detection device, and if a ratio of the calculated air conditioning processing capacity to a rated capacity of the air conditioning apparatus is greater than a preset threshold value, creates first control data for operating each compressor in a first mode, and if the ratio is equal to or less than the threshold value, creates second control data for operating each compressor in a second mode;
the first control data is control data for changing a target value of a temperature of a refrigerant flowing through a corresponding second heat exchanger after a certain grace period has elapsed since the start of operation of each compressor, from a first temperature to a second temperature different from the first temperature,
the second control data is control data for changing a target value of a temperature of the refrigerant flowing through a corresponding second heat exchanger from the first temperature to the second temperature after a grace period that is shorter than the grace period in the first mode from a start of operation of each compressor,
The server device creates control data using a first threshold value as the threshold value when less than a specific number of the multiple air conditioning systems are in operation, and creates control data using a second threshold value greater than the first threshold value as the threshold value when the specific number or more of the air conditioning systems are in operation.