WO2024101430A1

WO2024101430A1 - Air treatment device

Info

Publication number: WO2024101430A1
Application number: PCT/JP2023/040441
Authority: WO
Inventors: 敏行前田
Original assignee: ダイキン工業株式会社
Priority date: 2022-11-09
Filing date: 2023-11-09
Publication date: 2024-05-16
Also published as: JP2024068991A

Abstract

This air treatment device carries out ventilation of a room (I). The air treatment device comprises a control unit (C) which controls the operation of the air treatment device. On the basis of an environment in the room or an environment outside the room, the control unit (C) makes the air treatment device carry out either an exhaust operation that transfers air from the room (I) to outside, or an intake operation that transfers air from outside to the room (I).

Description

Air Treatment Equipment

This disclosure relates to air treatment devices.

Patent Document 1 discloses a ventilation device. The ventilation device includes a receiving means for receiving air pollution prediction-related information, a determining means for determining whether or not to introduce outside air based on the air pollution prediction-related information, and a control means for controlling the introduction of outside air (air supply operation) according to the determination result of the determining means. The ventilation device ventilates the air in a room by performing air supply operation.

JP 2006-133121 A

However, in the configuration of Patent Document 1, if the outdoor environment deteriorates and the determination means determines that the outdoor air is polluted, the air supply operation is not performed and the room cannot be ventilated. As a result, even if the indoor air environment deteriorates, the room is not ventilated, which may make it difficult to achieve a comfortable indoor air environment.

The objective of this disclosure is to provide an air treatment device that can create a comfortable indoor air environment.

The air treatment device of the first embodiment ventilates the room (I). The air treatment device includes a control unit (C) that controls the operation of the air treatment device, and the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform either an exhaust operation in which air from the room (I) is sent to the outside, or an air supply operation in which outdoor air is sent to the room (I) based on the indoor or outdoor environment.

In the first embodiment, ventilation can be performed by taking advantage of the characteristics of supply ventilation and exhaust ventilation, and a comfortable environment can be achieved in the room (I).

In the second aspect, in the first aspect, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform either the exhaust operation or the air supply operation based on the component values in the air inside the room (I) or the component values in the air outside the room, and the component values indicate the amount of a specified gas component in the air, the concentration of a specified gas component in the air, or the amount of particles in the air.

In the second embodiment, it is possible to prevent the room (I) from being filled with unpleasant odors.

In the third aspect, in the first aspect, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform either the exhaust operation or the air supply operation based on the humidity in the room (I) or the humidity outside the room.

In the third aspect, it is possible to prevent the humidity in the room (I) from becoming too high or too low, which is uncomfortable for the user.

In the fourth aspect, which is the second aspect, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform either the exhaust operation or the supply operation based on information indicating the component values in the room (I) acquired over time.

In the fourth aspect, it is possible to determine whether to perform exhaust operation or supply operation, taking into account the change over time in the component values in the room (I).

In the fifth aspect, in the second or fourth aspect, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation when the rate of change in the component value in the room (I) relative to the change in time is greater than a predetermined rate.

In the fifth aspect, the room (I) can be properly ventilated.

In the sixth aspect, in the second or fourth aspect, the control unit (C) acquires a first sensor signal indicating the component value in the room (I), and when a high-frequency component having a predetermined frequency or higher among frequency components contained in a waveform representing the first sensor signal is equal to or higher than a predetermined ratio, causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.

In the sixth aspect, it is possible to prevent the interior (I) from becoming filled with a specified gas component or particles.

The seventh aspect is the second or fourth aspect, further comprising a storage unit that stores a first prediction model for outputting a predicted value of a first distance between a source of the specified gas component and the indoor unit (30) of the air treatment device, and the control unit (C) outputs a predicted value of the first distance using the first prediction model, and causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation when the predicted value of the first distance becomes smaller than a first specified distance.

In the seventh aspect, it is possible to prevent the interior (I) from becoming filled with a specified gas component.

The eighth aspect is the second or fourth aspect, in which the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation when the level of the component value in the room (I) is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, and causes the air treatment device to perform the supply operation when the level of the component value in the room (I) is lower than the predetermined level.

In the eighth aspect, outside air can be introduced into the room (I) while preventing the room (I) from becoming filled with a specified gas component or particles.

In a ninth aspect, in any one of the first to eighth aspects, the air treatment device includes an indoor heat exchanger (34) provided in an indoor unit (30) of the air treatment device, and when the air treatment device receives a stop instruction while moisture is adhering to the indoor heat exchanger (34), the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.

In the ninth aspect, the moisture adhering to the indoor heat exchanger (34) is discharged to the outside through the exhaust operation, thereby preventing an increase in humidity in the room (I).

The tenth aspect is the ninth aspect, in which the air treatment device receives a stop command when moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger (34), including the case where the air treatment device is performing cooling operation and receives a stop command.

In the tenth aspect, when the cooling operation is resumed, the cooling operation can be started in a state in which adhesion of moisture to the indoor heat exchanger (34) is suppressed, so that an increase in humidity in the room (I) can be suppressed.

The eleventh aspect is the ninth aspect, and includes a case where the air treatment device receives a stop command when moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger (34), the air treatment device performing cooling operation receives a stop command, and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) is lower than the dew point temperature of the air in the room (I).

In the eleventh aspect, the increase in humidity can be suppressed.

In a twelfth aspect, in the third aspect, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform either the exhaust operation or the air supply operation based on information indicating the humidity in the room (I) acquired over time.

In the twelfth aspect, it is possible to determine whether to perform exhaust operation or supply operation, taking into account the change in humidity in the room (I) over time.

In the thirteenth aspect, in the third or twelfth aspect, if the average humidity in the room (I) within a specified time period is outside a specified humidity comfort zone and specified conditions are satisfied, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation, and the specified conditions include a condition in which the rate of change in humidity in the room (I) over time is greater than a specified rate.

In the thirteenth aspect, the humidity in the room (I) can be appropriately adjusted.

In the fourteenth aspect, in the third or twelfth aspect, if the average humidity in the room (I) within a specified time period is a value outside a specified humidity comfort zone and specified conditions are satisfied, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation, and the control unit (C) acquires a second sensor signal indicating the humidity in the room (I), and the specified conditions include a condition in which high-frequency components of a specified frequency or higher among frequency components contained in a waveform representing the second sensor signal are equal to or higher than a specified rate.

In the fourteenth aspect, it is possible to prevent the humidity in the room (I) from becoming uncomfortable.

The fifteenth aspect is the third or twelfth aspect, further comprising a storage unit that stores a second prediction model for outputting a predicted value of a second distance between a source that generates the change in humidity and the indoor unit (30) of the air treatment device, and the control unit (C) outputs a predicted value of the second distance between the source and the indoor unit (30) using the second prediction model, and causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation when the predicted value of the second distance becomes smaller than a second predetermined distance.

In the fifteenth aspect, it is possible to prevent the humidity in the room (I) from becoming uncomfortable.

The sixteenth aspect is the third or twelfth aspect, in which the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation when the average deviation of the humidity in the room (I) within a specified time from a comfort zone of a specified humidity is equal to or greater than a specified amount, and causes the air treatment device to perform the supply operation when the deviation is smaller than the specified amount.

In the sixteenth aspect, it is possible to introduce outside air into the room (I) while preventing the humidity in the room (I) from becoming uncomfortable.

In the seventeenth aspect, in the third or twelfth aspect, the air treatment device includes an indoor heat exchanger (34) provided in an indoor unit (30) of the air treatment device, and the indoor unit (30) is provided with a passage that guides air sent from the outside to the indoor unit (30) during the air supply operation to the suction side of the indoor heat exchanger (34), and the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the air supply operation when the humidity outside the room is higher than the humidity inside the room (I).

In the seventeenth aspect, the outdoor air sent to the indoor unit (30) is immediately dehumidified by the indoor heat exchanger (34), so that the outdoor air can be dehumidified more effectively than if the outdoor air was mixed with the air in the room (I) and diluted before being dehumidified by the indoor heat exchanger (34).

The eighteenth aspect is any one of the first to seventeenth aspects, in which the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation when the air treatment device is started.

In the eighteenth aspect, the generation of unpleasant odors in the room (I) when the air treatment device is started can be suppressed.

The 19th aspect is any one of the 1st to 18th aspects, in which the air treatment device includes a fan (13) that sends outdoor air into the room (I), and the control unit (C) stops the rotation of the fan (13) when the air treatment device is started.

In the 19th aspect, it is possible to prevent outdoor air from being sent into the room (I) when the air treatment device is started.

The twentieth aspect is any one of the first to nineteenth aspects, in which the air treatment device includes an air deflector (37) that determines the direction in which air is sent inside the room (I), and the control unit (C) closes the air deflector (37) when the air treatment device is started.

In the twentieth aspect, it is possible to prevent outdoor air from being sent into the room (I) when the air treatment device is started.

The 21st aspect is the second or fourth aspect, in which, during the air supply operation, if the component value in the room (I) increases over time and the degree of the increase exceeds a predetermined degree, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.

In the 21st aspect, it is possible to prevent the air in the room (I) from becoming filled with a specified gas component or particles.

FIG. 1 is a schematic overall configuration diagram of an air conditioning apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram showing refrigerant piping and air flow in the air conditioner. FIG. 3 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the air conditioning indoor unit. FIG. 4 is a block diagram including the main elements of the air conditioning device. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the state of the second switching damper and the air flow inside the damper casing during air supply operation. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the state of the second switching damper and the air flow inside the damper casing during exhaust operation. FIG. 7 is a flow diagram showing a first example of the operation of the air conditioning apparatus. FIG. 8 is a flow diagram showing a second example of the operation of the air conditioning apparatus. FIG. 9 is a flow diagram showing a third example of the operation of the air conditioning apparatus. FIG. 10 is a flow diagram showing a fourth example of the operation of the air conditioning apparatus. FIG. 11 is a flow diagram showing a fifth example of the operation of the air conditioning apparatus. FIG. 12 is a flow diagram showing a sixth example of the operation of the air conditioning apparatus. FIG. 13 is a flow diagram showing a seventh example of the operation of the air conditioning apparatus. FIG. 14 is a flow diagram showing an eighth example of the operation of the air conditioning apparatus. FIG. 15 is a flow diagram showing a ninth example of the operation of the air conditioning apparatus. FIG. 16 is a configuration diagram showing refrigerant piping and air flows in a modified example of the air conditioner.

Below, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible without departing from the technical concept of the present disclosure. Each drawing is intended to conceptually explain the present disclosure, and therefore dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary for ease of understanding.

Below, an exemplary embodiment is described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(1) Overview of the configuration of the air conditioner The air conditioner (1) is an example of an air treatment device. The air treatment device may have a function and configuration capable of performing at least exhaust operation and ventilation operation among cooling operation, heating operation, supply operation, exhaust operation, dehumidification operation, humidification operation, dehumidification cooling operation, and humidification heating operation. The air conditioner (1) adjusts the temperature and humidity of air in a room (I). As shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioner (1) has an air conditioner outdoor unit (10) and an air conditioner indoor unit (30). The air conditioner outdoor unit (10) is installed outdoors, and the air conditioner indoor unit (30) is installed indoors (I). The air conditioner (1) is a pair type having one air conditioner indoor unit (30) and one air conditioner outdoor unit (10). The air conditioner (1) has a humidity control unit (20) that is a humidity control element. The air conditioner (1) has a function of humidifying and dehumidifying air. The air conditioner (1) further has a function of ventilating the room (I).

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the air conditioner (1) has a hose (2), a liquid connection pipe (3), and a gas connection pipe (4). The air conditioner indoor unit (30) and the humidity control unit (20) are connected to each other via the hose (2). The air conditioner indoor unit (30) and the air conditioner outdoor unit (10) are connected to each other via the liquid connection pipe (3) and the gas connection pipe (4). This forms an air conditioning element (5) including a refrigerant circuit (R). The refrigerant circuit (R) is filled with a refrigerant. The refrigerant is difluoromethane. However, the refrigerant is not limited to difluoromethane. The refrigerant circuit (R) performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle.

The refrigerant circuit (R) mainly includes a compressor (12), an outdoor heat exchanger (14), an expansion valve (15), a four-way switching valve (16), and an indoor heat exchanger (34).

The refrigerant circuit (R) performs a first refrigeration cycle or a second refrigeration cycle depending on the switching of the four-way switching valve (16). The first refrigeration cycle is a refrigeration cycle in which the indoor heat exchanger (34) functions as an evaporator and the outdoor heat exchanger (14) functions as a radiator. The second refrigeration cycle is a refrigeration cycle in which the indoor heat exchanger (34) functions as a radiator and the outdoor heat exchanger (14) functions as an evaporator.

(2) Detailed Configuration (2-1) Air Conditioning Outdoor Unit As shown in Figures 2 and 4, the air conditioning outdoor unit (10) has an outdoor casing (11), a compressor (12), an outdoor fan (13), an outdoor heat exchanger (14), an expansion valve (15), and a four-way switching valve (16).

A partition plate (18) is provided inside the outdoor casing (11). The partition plate (18) divides the interior of the outdoor casing (11) into a first space (S1) and a second space (S2). The first space (S1) is provided with a compressor (12) and an outdoor heat exchanger (14). Strictly speaking, the first space (S1) is provided with the compressor (12), the outdoor fan (13), the outdoor heat exchanger (14), the expansion valve (15), and the four-way switching valve (16). The outdoor casing (11) is formed with an outdoor suction port (11a), an outdoor outlet port (11b), a moisture absorption side suction port (61a), and a moisture absorption side exhaust port (61b). The outdoor suction port (11a) is formed on the rear side of the outdoor casing (11). The outdoor suction port (11a) is an opening for drawing in outdoor air (air from outside the room). The outdoor outlet (11b) is formed on the front side of the outdoor casing (11). The outdoor outlet (11b) is an opening for blowing out air that has passed through the outdoor heat exchanger (14). Inside the outdoor casing (11), an outdoor air passage (11c) is formed from the outdoor suction port (11a) to the outdoor outlet (11b).

The compressor (12) sucks in and compresses low-pressure gas refrigerant. The compressor (12) is driven by a first motor (M1). The compressor (12) is a variable displacement compressor in which power is supplied to the first motor (M1) from an inverter circuit. The compressor (12) is configured so that its operating capacity can be changed by adjusting the operating frequency (rotation speed) of the first motor (M1). The compressor (12) is a so-called high-pressure dome type compressor in which the inside is filled with high-pressure refrigerant. When the compressor (12) is operating, heat generated by the compressor (12) is released to the surroundings.

The outdoor fan (13) is disposed in the outdoor air passage (11c). The outdoor fan (13) is rotated by being driven by the second motor (M2). Air transported by the outdoor fan (13) is sucked into the outdoor casing (11) through the outdoor suction port (11a). This air flows through the outdoor air passage (11c) and is blown out of the outdoor casing (11) through the outdoor outlet port (11b). The outdoor fan (13) transports the outdoor air so that it passes through the outdoor heat exchanger (14).

The outdoor heat exchanger (14) is disposed upstream of the outdoor fan (13) in the outdoor air passage (11c). In this example, the outdoor heat exchanger (14) is a fin-and-tube type heat exchanger. The outdoor heat exchanger (14) exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing therein and the outdoor air transported by the outdoor fan (13).

The expansion valve (15) reduces the pressure of the refrigerant. The expansion valve (15) is an electrically operated expansion valve whose opening is adjustable. The pressure reducing mechanism may be a temperature-sensitive expansion valve, an expander, a capillary tube, or the like. The expansion valve (15) only needs to be connected to the liquid line of the refrigerant circuit (R), and may be provided in the air conditioning indoor unit (30).

The four-way switching valve (16) has a first port (P1), a second port (P2), a third port (P3), and a fourth port (P4). The first port (P1) is connected to the discharge portion of the compressor (12). The second port (P2) is connected to the suction portion of the compressor (12). The third port (P3) is connected to the gas end of the outdoor heat exchanger (14). The fourth port (P4) is connected to the gas connection pipe (4).

The four-way switching valve (16) can be switched between a first state (indicated by a solid line in FIG. 2) and a second state (indicated by a dashed line in FIG. 2). In the first state, the four-way switching valve (16) connects the first port (P1) to the third port (P3) and also connects the second port (P2) to the fourth port (P4). In the second state, the four-way switching valve (16) connects the first port (P1) to the fourth port (P4) and also connects the second port (P2) to the third port (P3).

(2-2) Humidity Control Unit The humidity control unit (20) is installed outdoors. In this example, the humidity control unit (20) is integrated with the air conditioner outdoor unit (10). The humidity control unit (20) sends humidity-controlled air to the air conditioner indoor unit (30). The humidity control unit (20) has an outdoor casing (11), a humidity control rotor (22), a first fan (26), a second fan (23), a heater (25), a first switching damper (24), and a second switching damper (29) (see FIG. 5). The outdoor casing (11) is shared by the air conditioner outdoor unit (10) and the humidity control unit (20).

The second space (S2) described above is defined inside the outdoor casing (11). The second space (S2) is provided with a humidity control rotor (22) and a heater (25). Strictly speaking, the second space (S2) is provided with the humidity control rotor (22), the first fan (26), the second fan (23), the heater (25), the first switching damper (24), and the second switching damper (29). The outdoor casing (11) is formed with an intake and exhaust port (21a), a connection port (21b), and an outdoor exhaust port (21c). The intake and exhaust port (21a) is an opening through which outdoor air and room air flow. Inside the outdoor casing (11), a first passage (27) is formed, which continues from the intake and exhaust port (21a) to the connection port (21b). A third passage (62) is formed inside the outdoor casing (11) and extends from the moisture absorption side inlet (61a) to the moisture absorption side exhaust port (61b). A hose (2) is connected to the connection port (21b).

The second passage (28) is connected to the first passage (27). The second passage (28) continues from the middle of the first passage (27) to the outdoor exhaust port (21c). The inlet end of the second passage (28) is connected to the downstream side of the humidity control rotor (22) in the first passage (27) (more precisely, the downstream side of the first fan (26)). In the first passage (27) and the second passage (28), the downstream is downstream of the direction in which air flows during air supply operation (the direction indicated by the solid arrow in FIG. 2), and the upstream is upstream of the direction in which air flows during air supply operation.

The humidity control rotor (22) is passed through by the air flowing through the first passage (27). The humidity control rotor (22) is an adsorbent member that adsorbs moisture in the air. The humidity control rotor (22) is, for example, a disk-shaped humidity control rotor having a honeycomb structure. The humidity control rotor (22) holds an adsorbent made of a polymeric material having hygroscopic properties. This polymeric material having hygroscopic properties is a type of so-called sorption agent. In an adsorbent made of a polymeric material having hygroscopic properties, both a phenomenon occurs in which water vapor in the air is adsorbed on the surface of the adsorbent, and a phenomenon in which water vapor is absorbed inside the adsorbent. The adsorbent held by the humidity control rotor (22) may be an inorganic material such as silica gel, zeolite, or alumina. The adsorbent has the property of adsorbing moisture in the air. The moisture absorbent has the property of desorbing the adsorbed moisture when heated.

The humidity control rotor (22) is rotated by being driven by the third motor (M3). The humidity control rotor (22) has a humidity control area (22A) located in the first passage (27). In the humidity control area (22A), a regeneration operation is performed in which moisture adsorbed in the adsorbent is released into the air, and an adsorption operation is performed in which moisture in the air is adsorbed into the adsorbent.

The first fan (26) is disposed downstream of the humidity control area (22A) in the first passage (27). The first fan (26) transports outdoor air so that it passes through the humidity control area (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). The first fan (26) is rotated by being driven by the fourth motor (M4). The first fan (26) is configured so that the air volume can be switched between multiple levels by adjusting the rotation speed of the fourth motor (M4).

The heater (25) is disposed upstream of the humidity control region (22A) in the first passage (27). The heater (25) heats the air flowing through the first passage (27). The heater (25) is configured to have variable output. The temperature of the air passing through the heater (25) changes depending on the output of the heater (25).

The second fan (23) is disposed in the third passage (62). The second fan (23) is rotated by being driven by the sixth motor (M6). The second fan (23) transports outdoor air by passing through the third passage (62). The outdoor air transported by the second fan (23) is sent into the third passage (62) through the moisture absorption side inlet (61a) and is discharged to the outside through the moisture absorption side exhaust port (61b). In the third passage (62), the adsorption region (22C) of the humidity control rotor (22) and the second fan (23) are disposed in this order from the upstream side to the downstream side of the air flow.

The first switching damper (24) is provided at the connection portion of the first passage (27) with the second passage (28). The passage switching mechanism may be constituted by a passage switching valve, a shutter, or the like. The first switching damper (24) switches between a third state (a state shown by a solid line in FIG. 2) and a fourth state (a state shown by a dashed line in FIG. 2). In the third state, the first switching damper (24) connects the first passage (27) with the inside of the hose (2) and blocks the first passage (27) from the second passage (28). In the fourth state, the first switching damper (24) connects the first passage (27) with the inside of the hose (2) and connects the first passage (27) with the second passage (28). The state of the first switching damper (24) is switched by driving a power source such as a motor.

The second switching damper (29) is disposed in the first passage (27). As shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the second switching damper (29) is disposed in a damper casing (29A). In the damper casing (29A), there are provided a space (S31) inside the second switching damper (29), a space (S32) in which the second switching damper (29) is disposed, and a space (S33). The second switching damper (29) is disposed so as to be slidable in the space (S32). The damper casing (29A) is provided with a first inlet (29a) and a second inlet (29b) that communicate the space (S32) with the outside of the damper casing (29A). The first inlet (29a) communicates with the intake/exhaust port (21a) through the first passage (27). The second port (29b) communicates with the connection port (21b) for the hose (2) in the outdoor casing (11) through the first passage (27). The second port (29b) communicates with the outdoor exhaust port (21c) through the first passage (27) and the second passage (28). The damper casing (29A) is provided with a first communication port (29c) and a second communication port (29d) that communicate the space (S32) with the space (S33). The second switching damper (29) is switched between the fifth state and the sixth state by sliding in the space (S32). As shown in FIG. 5, the second switching damper (29) in the fifth state has an inlet for sucking air as the first port (29a) and an outlet for discharging air as the second port (29b). As shown in FIG. 6, the second switching damper (29) in the sixth state has the second inlet (29b) as the inlet for sucking in air and the first inlet (29a) as the outlet for discharging air. The state of the second switching damper (29) is switched by driving a power source such as a motor.

(2-3) Air Conditioning Indoor Unit As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the air conditioning indoor unit (30) is installed in the room (I). The air conditioning indoor unit (30) is a wall-mounted type that is installed on the wall (WL) of a room that forms the room (I). The air conditioning indoor unit (30) has an indoor casing (31), an indoor fan (32), an air filter (33), an indoor heat exchanger (34), a drain pan (35), and an air direction adjustment unit (36).

The indoor casing (31) houses the indoor fan (32), the air filter (33), the indoor heat exchanger (34), and the drain pan (35). The indoor casing (31) is formed with an indoor suction port (31a) and an indoor outlet port (31b). The indoor suction port (31a) is disposed on the upper side of the indoor casing (31). The indoor suction port (31a) is an opening for drawing in indoor air. The indoor outlet port (31b) is disposed on the lower side of the indoor casing (31). The indoor outlet port (31b) is an opening for blowing out air after heat exchange or air for humidity control. An indoor air passage (31c) continuing from the indoor suction port (31a) to the indoor outlet port (31b) is provided inside the indoor casing (31).

The indoor fan (32) is disposed approximately in the center of the indoor air passage (31c). The indoor fan (32) is, for example, a cross-flow fan. The indoor fan (32) is rotated by driving the fifth motor (M5). The indoor fan (32) takes in air from the room (I) into the indoor air passage (31c) and transports it. The air transported by the indoor fan (32) is sucked into the indoor casing (31) through the indoor suction port (31a). This air flows through the indoor air passage (31c) and is blown out of the indoor casing (31) through the indoor outlet port (31b).

The indoor fan (32) transports air in the room (I) so that the air passes through the indoor heat exchanger (34). The air blown out from the indoor air outlet (31b) is supplied to the room (I). The indoor fan (32) is configured so that the air volume can be switched between multiple levels by adjusting the rotation speed of the fifth motor (M5).

The air filter (33) is disposed in the indoor air passage (31c) upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (34). The air filter (33) is attached to the indoor casing (31) so that substantially all of the air supplied to the indoor heat exchanger (34) passes through the air filter (33). The air filter (33) collects dust in the air sucked in from the indoor suction port (31a).

The indoor heat exchanger (34) is disposed upstream of the indoor fan (32) in the indoor air passage (31c). In this example, the indoor heat exchanger (34) is a fin-and-tube type heat exchanger. The indoor heat exchanger (34) exchanges heat between the refrigerant therein and the air in the room (I) transported by the indoor fan (32).

The drain pan (35) is disposed on the front and rear lower sides of the indoor heat exchanger (34). The drain pan (35) receives condensation water generated inside the indoor casing (31) of the air conditioning indoor unit (30). Condensation water generated on the surfaces of the fins of the indoor heat exchanger (34) flows down the surfaces due to its own weight and is received in the drain pan (35).

The airflow direction adjustment section (36) adjusts the direction of the air blown out from the indoor air outlet (31b). The airflow direction adjustment section (36) has a flap (37). The flap (37) is formed in a long plate shape extending along the longitudinal direction of the indoor air outlet (31b). The flap (37) rotates when driven by a motor. The flap (37) opens and closes the indoor air outlet (31b) as it rotates.

The flap (37) is configured so that the inclination angle can be changed in stages. The positions to which the flap (37) in this example can be adjusted include six positions. These six positions include a closed position and five open positions. The five open positions include the substantially horizontal blowing position shown in FIG. 3. The flap (37) in the closed position substantially closes the indoor air outlet (31b). A gap may be formed between the flap (37) in the closed position and the indoor air outlet (31b). As described above, the air conditioning indoor unit (30) is connected to the humidity control unit (20) via the hose (2). The end of the hose (2) connected to the air conditioning indoor unit (30) communicates with the indoor heat exchanger (34) upstream in the indoor air passage (31c). Air sent from the humidity control unit (20) to the air conditioning indoor unit (30) is supplied to the indoor air passage (31c) upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (34) through the hose (2). Air sent from the air conditioning indoor unit (30) to the humidity control unit (20) flows into the hose (2) from the upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (34) in the indoor air passage (31c).

(2-4) Remote Controller As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 4, the air conditioner (1) includes a remote controller (40). The remote controller (40) is disposed in a position in the room (I) where the user can operate it. The remote controller (40) has a display unit (41) and an input unit (42). The display unit (41) displays predetermined information. The display unit (41) is configured, for example, by a liquid crystal monitor. The predetermined information is information indicating the operating state and set temperature of the air conditioner (1). The input unit (42) accepts input operations for making various settings from the user. The input unit (42) is configured, for example, by a plurality of physical switches. The user can set the operating mode, target temperature, target humidity, and the like of the air conditioner (1) by operating the input unit (42) of the remote controller (40).

(2-5) Sensors As shown in Figures 2 and 4, the air conditioner (1) has a plurality of sensors. The plurality of sensors includes a sensor for the refrigerant and a sensor for the air. The refrigerant sensors include a sensor for detecting the temperature and pressure of a high-pressure refrigerant and a sensor for detecting the temperature and pressure of a low-pressure refrigerant (not shown).

The air sensors include an outdoor air temperature sensor (51), an outdoor air humidity sensor (52), an indoor air temperature sensor (53), an indoor air humidity sensor (54), and a humidity sensor (55). The outdoor air temperature sensor (51) is provided in the air conditioner outdoor unit (10). The outdoor air temperature sensor (51) detects the temperature of outdoor air. The outdoor air humidity sensor (52) in this example is provided in the third passage (62) and is located upstream of the humidity control rotor (22) (e.g., around the moisture absorption side inlet (61a)). The outdoor air humidity sensor (52), like the outdoor air temperature sensor (51), may be provided around the outdoor inlet (11a) of the outdoor casing (11). The outdoor air humidity sensor (52) detects the humidity of outdoor air. The outdoor air humidity sensor (52) in this example detects the relative humidity of outdoor air, but may also detect absolute humidity. The indoor air temperature sensor (53) and the indoor air humidity sensor (54) are provided in the air conditioner indoor unit (30). The indoor air temperature sensor (53) detects the temperature of the indoor air. The indoor air humidity sensor (54) detects the humidity of the indoor air. The indoor air humidity sensor (54) detects the relative humidity of the indoor air, but may detect the absolute humidity. The humidity sensor (55) in this example is provided in the first passage (27). This humidity sensor (55) is located between the second inlet/outlet (29b) of the second switching damper (29) and the connection port (21b) of the outdoor casing (11). The humidity sensor (55) detects the humidity of the air flowing through the first passage (27). The humidity sensor (55) in this example detects the relative humidity of the air, but may detect the absolute humidity.

(2-6) Control Unit As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 4, the air conditioner (1) has a control unit (C). The control unit (C) controls the operation of the refrigerant circuit (R). The control unit (C) controls the operation of the air conditioning outdoor unit (10), the humidity control unit (20), and the air conditioning indoor unit (30). The control unit (C) includes an outdoor control unit (OC), an indoor control unit (IC), and a remote controller (40). The outdoor control unit (OC) is provided in the air conditioning outdoor unit (10). The indoor control unit (IC) is provided in the air conditioning indoor unit (30). Each of the indoor control unit (IC) and the outdoor control unit (OC) includes an MCU (Micro Control Unit), an electric circuit, and an electronic circuit. The MCU includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a memory, and a communication interface. The memory stores various programs to be executed by the CPU.

The outdoor control unit (OC) receives the detection values of the outdoor air temperature sensor (51), the outdoor air humidity sensor (52), and the humidity sensor (55).

The outdoor control unit (OC) is connected to the compressor (12), outdoor fan (13), expansion valve (15), and four-way switching valve (16). The outdoor control unit (OC) outputs control signals for starting and stopping the operation of the air conditioning outdoor unit (10) to the compressor (12), outdoor fan (13), expansion valve (15), and four-way switching valve (16). The outdoor control unit (OC) controls the operating frequency of the first motor (M1) of the compressor (12), the rotation speed of the second motor (M2) of the outdoor fan (13), the state of the four-way switching valve (16), and the opening of the expansion valve (15).

The outdoor control unit (OC) is further connected to the humidity control rotor (22), the first fan (26), the second fan (23), the heater (25), and the first switching damper (24). The outdoor control unit (OC) outputs control signals for starting and stopping the operation of the humidity control unit (20) to the humidity control rotor (22), the first fan (26), the second fan (23), the heater (25), and the first switching damper (24). The outdoor control unit (OC) controls the rotation speeds of the third motor (M3) of the humidity control rotor (22), the fourth motor (M4) of the first fan (26), and the sixth motor (M6) of the second fan (23), the operation of the humidity control rotor (22) and the first switching damper (24), and the output of the heater (25).

The indoor control unit (IC) receives the detection values of the indoor air temperature sensor (53) and the indoor air humidity sensor (54).

The indoor control unit (IC) is connected to the remote controller (40) so as to be able to communicate with it. The indoor control unit (IC) is connected to the indoor fan (32). The indoor control unit (IC) outputs a control signal to the indoor fan (32) for starting and stopping the operation of the air conditioning indoor unit (30). The indoor control unit (IC) controls the rotation speed of the fifth motor (M5) of the indoor fan (32). The indoor control unit (IC) is connected to the outdoor control unit (OC) so as to be able to communicate with it.

The remote controller (40) is connected to the indoor control unit (IC) so as to be able to communicate with it. The remote controller (40) transmits an instruction signal to the indoor control unit (IC) instructing the operation of the air conditioner (1) in response to a user's operation on the input unit (42). When the indoor control unit (IC) receives an instruction signal from the remote controller (40), it transmits the instruction signal to the outdoor control unit (OC). The indoor control unit (IC) controls the operation of the above-mentioned devices of the air conditioning indoor unit (30) in accordance with the instruction signal. When the outdoor control unit (OC) receives an instruction signal from the indoor control unit (IC), it controls the operation of the above-mentioned devices of the air conditioning outdoor unit (10) and the humidity control unit (20).

(3) Operational Modes The operational modes performed by the air conditioner (1) include cooling operation, heating operation, supply air operation, exhaust operation, dehumidification operation, humidification operation, dehumidification-cooling operation, and humidification-heating operation. The control unit (C) causes these operations to be performed based on instruction signals from the remote controller (40).

(3-1) Cooling Operation Cooling operation is an operation in which the air in the room (I) is cooled by the indoor heat exchanger (34) functioning as an evaporator. The humidity control unit (20) is stopped. In cooling operation, the control unit (C) operates the compressor (12), the outdoor fan (13), and the indoor fan (32). The control unit (C) sets the four-way switching valve (16) to the first state. The control unit (C) appropriately adjusts the opening of the expansion valve (15). In cooling operation, a first refrigeration cycle is performed in which compressed refrigerant releases heat in the outdoor heat exchanger (14) and evaporates in the indoor heat exchanger (34).

In cooling operation, the control unit (C) adjusts the target evaporation temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) so that the indoor temperature detected by the indoor air temperature sensor (53) converges to the set temperature. The control unit (C) controls the rotation speed of the compressor (12) so that the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger (34) converges to the target evaporation temperature. In cooling operation, air transported by the indoor fan (32) is cooled as it passes through the indoor heat exchanger (34). The air cooled by the indoor heat exchanger (34) is supplied to the room (I) from the indoor air outlet (31b) of the air conditioning indoor unit (30).

(3-2) Heating Operation Heating operation is an operation in which the air in the room (I) is heated by the indoor heat exchanger (34) functioning as a radiator. The humidity control unit (20) is stopped. In heating operation, the control unit (C) operates the compressor (12), the outdoor fan (13), and the indoor fan (32). The control unit (C) sets the four-way switching valve (16) to the second state. The control unit (C) appropriately adjusts the opening of the expansion valve (15). In heating operation, a second refrigeration cycle is performed in which the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (12) releases heat in the indoor heat exchanger (34) and evaporates in the outdoor heat exchanger (14).

In heating operation, the control unit (C) adjusts the target condensing temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) so that the indoor temperature detected by the indoor air temperature sensor (53) converges to the set temperature. The control unit (C) controls the rotation speed of the compressor (12) so that the condensing temperature of the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger (34) converges to the target condensing temperature. In heating operation, air transported by the indoor fan (32) is heated as it passes through the indoor heat exchanger (34). The air heated by the indoor heat exchanger (34) is supplied to the room (I) from the indoor air outlet (31b) of the air conditioning indoor unit (30).

(3-3) Air Supply Operation Air supply operation is an operation for supplying outdoor air to the room (I). In the air supply operation, as shown by the solid arrow in FIG. 2, outdoor air is sent to the air conditioner indoor unit (30) through the hose (2). In the air supply operation, the control unit (C) stops the heater (25), the humidity control rotor (22), and the second fan (23), and operates the first fan (26). The control unit (C) sets the first switching damper (24) to the third state (the state shown by the solid line in FIG. 2) and sets the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state (see FIG. 5). In the air supply operation, the outdoor air transported by the first fan (26) is sent to the air conditioner indoor unit (30) through the hose (2) and is supplied to the room (I) through the indoor air outlet (31b) of the air conditioner indoor unit (30). The air supply operation may be performed simultaneously with the cooling operation or the heating operation.

(3-4) Exhaust Operation The exhaust operation is an operation for discharging indoor air to the outside of the room. In the exhaust operation, as shown by the dashed arrow in FIG. 2, indoor air is sent to the humidity control unit (20) through the hose (2). In the exhaust operation, the control unit (C) stops the heater (25), the humidity control rotor (22), and the second fan (23), and operates the first fan (26). The control unit (C) sets the first switching damper (24) to the third state (the state shown by the solid line in FIG. 2) and sets the second switching damper (29) to the sixth state (see FIG. 6). In the exhaust operation, the indoor air transported by the first fan (26) is sent to the humidity control unit (20) through the hose (2) and is discharged to the outside of the room from the intake and exhaust port (21a) of the humidity control unit (20). The exhaust operation may be performed simultaneously with the cooling operation or the heating operation.

(3-5) Dehumidification Operation In the dehumidification operation, air dehumidified by the humidity control unit (20) is supplied to the room (I). In the dehumidification operation, air dehumidified by the humidity control unit (20) is intermittently supplied to the room (I). The humidity control unit (20) alternately performs a first operation and a second operation. The first operation is an operation in which moisture in the air is adsorbed by the humidity control rotor (22) and the air dehumidified by the humidity control rotor (22) is supplied to the room (I). The second operation is an operation in which the humidity control rotor (22) is regenerated and the air used for the regeneration is exhausted to the outside of the room.

Specifically, in the first operation, the control unit (C) operates the first fan (26), stops the second fan (23), stops the heater (25), sets the first switching damper (24) to the third state (the state shown by the solid line in FIG. 2), and sets the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state (see FIG. 5). The air conveyed by the first fan (26) flows through the first passage (27) and passes through the humidity control area (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the humidity control area (22A), moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The air dehumidified in the humidity control area (22A) is sent to the air conditioning indoor unit (30) through the hose (2) and supplied to the room (I) from the indoor air outlet (31b) of the air conditioning indoor unit (30).

In the second operation (regeneration process of the humidity control rotor (22)), the control unit (C) operates the first fan (26) and the heater (25), stops the second fan (23), sets the first switching damper (24) to the fourth state (the state shown by the dashed line in FIG. 2), and sets the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state (see FIG. 5). The air conveyed by the first fan (26) flows through the first passage (27) and is heated by the heater (25), and then flows through the humidity control area (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the humidity control area (22A), the adsorbent is regenerated. Specifically, moisture adsorbed by the adsorbent is desorbed and released into the air. The air used to regenerate the humidity control rotor (22) flows from the first passage (27) to the second passage (28), as shown by the black arrow in FIG. 2, and is discharged to the outside of the room.

(3-6) Humidification Operation In the humidification operation, air humidified by the humidity control unit (20) is supplied to the room (I). In the humidification operation, air humidified by the humidity control unit (20) is continuously supplied to the room (I). The control unit (C) operates the first fan (26) and the second fan (23), drives the humidity control rotor (22) to rotate, and turns on the heater (25). The control unit (C) sets the first switching damper (24) to the third state and the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state.

The outdoor air flowing through the third passage (62) flows through the adsorption area (22C) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the adsorption area (22C), moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The air that has absorbed moisture from the humidity control rotor (22) is discharged to the outside through the third passage (62).

At the same time, the outdoor air flowing through the first passage (27) is heated by the heater (25) and then flows through the humidity control area (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the humidity control area (22A), moisture desorbed from the adsorbent is released into the air. The air humidified by the humidity control rotor (22) is sent to the air conditioning indoor unit (30) through the hose (2) and supplied to the room (I) from the indoor air outlet (31b) of the air conditioning indoor unit (30).

In the dehumidifying and cooling operation, the above-mentioned cooling operation and the dehumidifying operation are performed simultaneously. Specifically, the air is dehumidified by the humidity control unit (20) and cooled by the indoor heat exchanger (34) functioning as an evaporator.

In the humidification heating operation, the above-mentioned heating operation and humidification operation are performed simultaneously. Specifically, the air is humidified by the humidity control unit (20), and the air is heated by the indoor heat exchanger (34) functioning as a radiator.

(4) First Example of Operation of Air Conditioner As shown in FIG. 4, the air conditioner (1) includes an odor sensor (56). The odor sensor (56) detects the concentration (odor strength) of odor components in the air to detect odors in the room (I). The odor sensor (56) is, for example, a semiconductor odor sensor. The odor sensor (56) detects the odor strength of odor components (odor gas) containing organic substances such as acetic acid and alcohol. The odor sensor (56) includes a sensor element and detects odors based on a change in resistance of the sensor element that occurs when an odor gas hits the sensor element. The change in resistance is expressed as odor strength. A signal indicating the change in resistance is transmitted from the odor sensor (56) to the control unit (C) as a first sensor signal indicating the odor strength in the room (I). The odor sensor (56) is provided in the air conditioner indoor unit (30). The odor sensor (56) is disposed, for example, near the indoor suction port (31a) of the indoor casing (31) (see FIG. 3). The detection value (odor intensity) of the odor sensor (56) is a first example of a component value. The odor components are a first example of predetermined gas components.

As shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 7, in step S10, the control unit (C) acquires a first sensor signal indicating the intensity of the odor in the room (I) from the odor sensor (56). The control unit (C) acquires the first sensor signal over time. Acquiring the first sensor signal over time means acquiring the signal continuously for a predetermined period of time.

In step S20, the control unit (C) determines whether the rate of change in odor intensity in the room (I) over time is greater than a predetermined rate based on the first sensor signal from the odor sensor (56). If it is determined that the rate of change in odor intensity in the room (I) over time is greater than a predetermined rate (Yes in step S20), processing proceeds to step S30. If it is determined that the rate of change in odor intensity in the room (I) over time is not greater than the predetermined rate (No in step S20), processing proceeds to step S31.

In step S30, the control unit (C) decides to perform exhaust operation and causes the air conditioning device (1) to perform exhaust operation.

In step S31, the control unit (C) decides to perform air supply operation and causes the air conditioning device (1) to perform air supply operation.

As described above, the control unit (C) selects whether the air treatment device (1) should perform the exhaust operation or the supply operation based on the indoor environment or the outdoor environment, and causes the air treatment device (1) to perform the selected operation between the exhaust operation and the supply operation.

If the substance that is the source of the odor components (the source of the specified gas components) is located near the air conditioning indoor unit (30), the odor components reach the air conditioning indoor unit (30) before being mixed with the air, so the rate of change in odor intensity at the location of the air conditioning indoor unit (30) in the room (I) relative to time becomes greater than a specified rate (Yes in step S20), and the odor components at the location of the air conditioning indoor unit (30) change rapidly.

In this case, if the air conditioning indoor unit (30) were to perform air supply operation even though the odorous components were located near the air conditioning indoor unit (30), the strong odorous components sucked in by the air conditioning indoor unit (30) would be returned from the air conditioning indoor unit (30) to the room (I) and would be dispersed throughout the room (I), causing the odor to move, particularly to other rooms, etc.

In this embodiment, when a substance that is the source of odorous components is located near the air conditioning indoor unit (30), the air conditioning indoor unit (30) selects exhaust operation, so that the strong odorous components sucked into the air conditioning indoor unit (30) can be effectively discharged to the outside while being prevented from being returned to the room (I). As a result, the odorous components from the source can be appropriately discharged to the outside.

In contrast, in this embodiment, when the substance that is the source of the odor components is located far from the air conditioning indoor unit (30), that is, when the rate of change in odor intensity at the above-mentioned fixed position in the room (I) over time is not greater than a predetermined rate (No in step S20), even if the air conditioning indoor unit (30) performs supply ventilation, there is a low possibility that strong odor components will be dispersed into the room (I). Therefore, by the air conditioning indoor unit (30) performing supply ventilation, it is possible to effectively take in outside air into the room (I) while preventing the odor in the room (I) from worsening.

This type of control allows ventilation that takes advantage of the characteristics of both supply and exhaust ventilation, preventing the spread of and the induction of adverse environments, and creating a comfortable environment indoors (I).

(5) Second Example of Operation of Air Conditioner As shown in Figs. 4 and 8, when the control unit (C) acquires a first sensor signal from the odor sensor (56) in step S10, the process proceeds to step S21.

In step S21, the control unit (C) determines whether or not the high-frequency components of a predetermined frequency or higher among the frequency components contained in the waveform representing the first sensor signal are equal to or higher than a predetermined ratio. If it is determined that the high-frequency components are equal to or higher than the predetermined ratio (Yes in step S21), the process proceeds to step S30. If it is determined that the high-frequency components are not equal to or higher than the predetermined ratio (No in step S21), the process proceeds to step S31.

With the above configuration, when the first sensor signal contains a large number of high-frequency components, it can be inferred that the odor components (odor) from the odor source reach the location where the odor sensor (56) is installed (the air conditioning indoor unit (30)) without being mixed with the air. This is because when the first sensor signal contains a large number of high-frequency components, the odor components at the location where the air conditioning indoor unit (30) is installed change abruptly, as in the case where the rate of change in odor intensity in the room (I) relative to time in the first example above becomes greater than a predetermined rate (Yes in step S20). In this case, the odor from the source can be effectively exhausted to the outside of the room by performing exhaust operation as described above. As a result, it is possible to prevent the room (I) from being filled with an unpleasant odor.

(6) Third Example of Operation of Air Conditioner The air conditioner (1) includes a memory (storage unit). The memory stores a program executed by the control unit (C). The memory stores a first prediction model. The first prediction model is a model for outputting a predicted value of a first distance between a source of an odor component (source of odor) and the air conditioning indoor unit (30). The first prediction model is generated based on a correlation between the odor intensity (detection value of the odor sensor (56)) at the location where the air conditioning indoor unit (30) is located and the first distance. The odor component is an example of a predetermined gas component.

The method for generating the first prediction model is not particularly limited. The first prediction model is generated, for example, using AI (Artificial Intelligence). One example of a method for the AI to generate the first prediction model is a machine learning method (deep learning) using a multi-layer artificial neural network.

The first prediction model is a trained model that uses the odor intensity (detection value of the odor sensor (56)) and the first distance as input data and learns the correspondence between the odor intensity and the first distance. When input data is input, the first prediction model outputs output data. The output data includes information indicating the predicted value of the first distance.

The first prediction model may be table information (information that associates multiple odor intensities with multiple predicted values of the first distances) generated by statistical analysis by conducting tests or the like to investigate the correlation between odor intensity and the first distance.

As shown in Figures 4 and 9, when the control unit (C) acquires a first sensor signal from the odor sensor (56) in step S10, the process proceeds to step S11.

In step S11, the control unit (C) outputs a predicted value of the first distance based on the detection value of the odor sensor (56) and the above-mentioned first prediction model.

In step S22, the control unit (C) determines whether the first distance is smaller than the first predetermined distance. If it is determined that the predicted value of the first distance is smaller than the first predetermined distance (Yes in step S22), the process proceeds to step S30. If it is determined that the predicted value of the first distance is not smaller than the first predetermined distance (No in step S22), the process proceeds to step S31.

(7) Fourth Example of Operation of Air Conditioning Apparatus As shown in Figs. 4 and 10, when the control section (C) acquires a first sensor signal from the odor sensor (56) in step S10, the process proceeds to step S23.

In step S23, the control unit (C) determines whether the odor level in the room (I) is above a predetermined level. The odor level is the detection value of the odor sensor (56) or a representative value (mode, median, or average) of detection values of multiple odor sensors (56) detected within a predetermined period. The higher the odor level, the stronger the odor. If it is determined that the odor level in the room (I) is above the predetermined level (Yes in step S23), processing proceeds to step S30. If it is determined that the odor level in the room (I) is not above the predetermined level (No in step S23), processing proceeds to step S31.

In addition, an odor sensor may be provided outside the room, and if the control unit (C) determines that the outdoor odor level detected by the outdoor odor sensor is equal to or above a predetermined level, the control unit (C) may cause the air conditioner (1) to perform exhaust operation, and if the control unit (C) determines that the outdoor odor level is not equal to or above the predetermined level, the control unit (C) may cause the air conditioner (1) to perform supply air operation.

(8) Fifth Example of Operation of Air Conditioning Apparatus As shown in Fig. 4 and Fig. 11, in step S40, the air conditioning apparatus (1) receives a stop instruction from the remote controller (40). At this time, it is determined whether or not the air conditioning apparatus (1) has received the stop instruction in a state where moisture is adhering to the indoor heat exchanger (34). If the air conditioning apparatus (1) has received the stop instruction in a state where moisture is adhering to the indoor heat exchanger (34) (Yes in step S40), the process proceeds to step S41. If the air conditioning apparatus (1) has not received the stop instruction in a state where moisture is adhering to the indoor heat exchanger (34) (Yes in step S40), the process proceeds to step S42.

In step S41, the control unit (C) decides to perform exhaust operation and causes the air conditioner (1) to perform exhaust operation. By performing exhaust operation to discharge moisture adhering to the indoor heat exchanger (34) to the outside, it is possible to prevent an increase in humidity in the room (I). After a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the air conditioner (1) started exhaust operation, the process proceeds to step S42.

In step S42, the control unit (C) stops the air conditioning device (1). This turns off the power supply to the air conditioning device (1).

Step S40 will be explained below.

In the above step S40, when the air conditioner (1) receives a stop command while moisture is adhering to the indoor heat exchanger (34), this may include the case where the air conditioner (1) performing cooling operation receives the stop command. In this case, in step S40, the control unit (C) determines whether the air conditioner (1) performing cooling operation has received the stop command. If it is determined that the air conditioner (1) performing cooling operation has received the stop command, the process proceeds to step S41, and if not, the process proceeds to step S42.

In the above step S40, when the air conditioner (1) receives a stop command while moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger (34), this may include a case where the air conditioner (1) performing cooling operation receives a stop command and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) is lower than the dew point temperature of the air in the room (I). The control unit (C) The dew point temperature of the air in the room (I) is output by the control unit (C) based on the detection result of the indoor air temperature sensor (53) and the detection result of the indoor air humidity sensor (54). The dew point temperature may be output, for example, by using a first conversion table that is created in advance and shows the correspondence between temperature and relative humidity and the dew point temperature. The temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) is detected by a first temperature sensor (not shown) installed in the indoor heat exchanger (34). The temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) may not be detected by the first temperature sensor. For example, a second conversion table showing the correspondence between the temperature of the refrigerant liquid pipe such as the liquid connecting pipe (3) and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) may be prepared in advance, a second temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the refrigerant liquid pipe may be provided, and the detection result of the second temperature sensor and the second conversion table may be used to output the temperature. In this case, in step S40, the control unit (C) determines whether the air conditioner (1) performing the cooling operation has received a stop command and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) is lower than the dew point temperature of the air in the room (I). If it is determined that the air conditioner (1) performing the cooling operation has received a stop command and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) is lower than the dew point temperature of the air in the room (I), the process proceeds to step S41, and if not, the process proceeds to step S42.

4 and 12, in step S50, the control unit (C) acquires a second sensor signal indicating the humidity in the room (I) from the indoor air humidity sensor (54). The control unit (C) acquires the second sensor signal over time.

In step S60, the control unit (C) determines whether the average humidity value in the room (I) during a specified period acquired over time is outside the specified humidity comfort zone. The specified humidity comfort zone has upper and lower limits, and is a humidity value within a range below the upper limit and above the lower limit, and is stored in advance in the memory of the air conditioning device (1). If it is determined that the average humidity value is outside the specified humidity comfort zone (Yes in step S60), the process proceeds to step S61. If it is determined that the average humidity value is not outside the specified humidity comfort zone (No in step S60), the process proceeds to step S71.

In step S61, the control unit (C) determines whether the humidity in the room (I) satisfies a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition will be described later. If it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied (Yes in step S61), the process proceeds to step S70. If it is determined that the predetermined condition is not satisfied (No in step S61), the process proceeds to step S71.

In step S70, the control unit (C) decides to perform exhaust operation and causes the air conditioning device (1) to perform exhaust operation. In step S71, the control unit (C) decides to perform supply operation and causes the air conditioning device (1) to perform supply operation.

Step S61 will be explained below.

In step S61, the predetermined condition may include a condition that the rate of change in humidity in the room (I) relative to the change in time is greater than a predetermined rate. In this case, in step S61, the control unit (C) determines whether the rate of change in humidity in the room (I) relative to the change in time is greater than a predetermined rate. If it is determined that it is greater than the predetermined rate, the process proceeds to step S70, and if it is not determined that it is greater than the predetermined rate, the process proceeds to step S71.

In step S61, the predetermined condition may include a condition that the high frequency components having a predetermined frequency or more among the frequency components included in the waveform representing the second sensor signal indicating the humidity in the room (I) are equal to or greater than a predetermined ratio. In this case, in step S61, the control unit (C) determines whether the high frequency components having a predetermined frequency or more among the frequency components included in the waveform representing the second sensor signal are equal to or greater than a predetermined ratio. If it is determined that the high frequency components are equal to or greater than the predetermined ratio, the process proceeds to step S70, and if not, the process proceeds to step S71.

If there are many high-frequency components in the second sensor signal indicating the humidity in the room (I), it can be inferred that high-humidity air from a source of high-humidity air (e.g., boiling water) reaches the location where the room air humidity sensor (54) is installed (the air conditioning indoor unit (30)). In this case, by performing exhaust operation, the high-humidity air from the source can be effectively exhausted to the outside of the room. As a result, it is possible to prevent the humidity in the room (I) from becoming uncomfortable.

(10) Seventh Example of Operation of Air Conditioning Apparatus A second prediction model is stored in a memory (not shown) of the air conditioning apparatus (1). The second prediction model is a model for outputting a predicted value of a second distance between a source that generates a change in humidity (e.g., water boiling in a kettle) and the air conditioning indoor unit (30). The second prediction model is generated based on a correlation between the amount of change in humidity (amount of change in the detected value of the indoor air humidity sensor (54) within a predetermined time) at a location where the air conditioning indoor unit (30) is located and the second distance.

The method for generating the second prediction model is not particularly limited. The second prediction model is generated, for example, using AI. One example of a method for the AI to generate the second prediction model is a machine learning method (deep learning) using a multi-layer artificial neural network.

The second prediction model is a trained model that uses the amount of change in humidity (the amount of change in the detected value of the indoor air humidity sensor (54) within a specified time) and the second distance as input data and learns the correspondence between the amount of change in humidity and the second distance. When the input data is input, the second prediction model outputs output data. The output data includes information indicating the predicted value of the second distance.

The second prediction model may be table information (information that associates multiple amounts of humidity change with multiple predicted values of the second distance) generated by statistical analysis by conducting tests or the like to investigate the correlation between the amount of change in humidity and the second distance.

As shown in Figures 4 and 13, when the control unit (C) acquires a second sensor signal from the inside air humidity sensor (54) in step S50, the process proceeds to step S51.

In step S51, the control unit (C) outputs a predicted value of the second distance based on the detection value of the inside air humidity sensor (54) and the above-mentioned second prediction model.

In step S62, the control unit (C) determines whether the second distance is smaller than the second predetermined distance. If it is determined that the second distance is smaller than the second predetermined distance (Yes in step S62), the process proceeds to step S70. If it is determined that the second distance is not smaller than the second predetermined distance (No in step S62), the process proceeds to step S71.

(11) Eighth Example of Operation of Air Conditioning Apparatus As shown in Figs. 4 and 14, when the control section (C) acquires a second sensor signal from the inside air humidity sensor (54) in step S50, the process proceeds to step S63.

In step S63, the control unit (C) determines whether the deviation of the average humidity in the room (I) during the specified period from the specified humidity comfort zone is equal to or greater than a specified amount. If the average humidity in the room (I) is greater than the upper limit of the specified humidity comfort zone, the deviation indicates the difference between the average humidity in the room (I) and the upper limit. If the average humidity in the room (I) is less than the upper limit of the specified humidity comfort zone, the deviation indicates the difference between the average humidity in the room (I) and the lower limit. If it is determined that the deviation of the average humidity in the room (I) is equal to or greater than the specified amount (Yes in step S63), the process proceeds to step S70. If it is determined that the deviation of the average humidity in the room (I) is not equal to or greater than the specified amount (No in step S63), the process proceeds to step S71.

In addition, if the control unit (C) determines that the detection value of the outdoor air humidity sensor (52) is outside the comfort zone of the predetermined humidity, it may cause the air conditioner (1) to perform exhaust operation, and if the control unit (C) determines that the detection value of the outdoor air humidity sensor (52) is not outside the comfort zone of the predetermined humidity, it may cause the air conditioner (1) to perform supply operation.

(12) Ninth Example of Operation of Air Conditioner The air conditioner (1) is equipped with an outdoor air quality sensor (not shown). The outdoor air quality sensor detects the amount of air pollutants in the outdoor air (e.g., the amount of particles in the outdoor air). In other words, the amount of air pollutants in the outdoor air indicates the pollution level of the outdoor air. The greater the amount of air pollutants in the air, the higher the pollution level of the air. The outdoor air quality sensor is provided, for example, in the outdoor casing (11) and arranged near the outdoor air inlet (11a) (see FIG. 2). The detection value of the outdoor air quality sensor is a second example of a component value.

As shown in Figures 4 and 15, in step S80, the control unit (C) acquires information indicating the pollution level of the outdoor air from the outdoor air quality sensor. Based on the information acquired from the outdoor air quality sensor, the control unit (C) determines whether the pollution level of the outdoor air is equal to or above a predetermined level. If it is determined that the pollution level of the outdoor air is equal to or above the predetermined level (Yes in step S80), the process proceeds to step S81. If it is determined that the pollution level of the outdoor air is not equal to or above the predetermined level (No in step S80), the process proceeds to step S82.

In step S81, the control unit (C) decides to perform exhaust operation and causes the air conditioning device (1) to perform exhaust operation. In step S82, the control unit (C) decides to perform supply operation and causes the air conditioning device (1) to perform supply operation.

(13) Tenth Example of Operation of Air Conditioner The air conditioner (1) includes an indoor air quality sensor (not shown). The indoor air quality sensor detects the amount of air pollutants in the air in the room (I) (e.g., the amount of particles in the air in the room). The indoor air quality sensor is provided, for example, in the indoor casing (31) and disposed at the indoor air inlet (31a) (see FIG. 2).

In the tenth example, during air supply operation, if the detection value of the indoor air quality sensor increases over time and the degree of increase in the detection value of the indoor air quality sensor over time exceeds a predetermined degree, the control unit (C) decides to perform exhaust operation, thereby switching from air supply operation to exhaust operation. During air supply operation, if the detection value of the indoor air quality sensor in the room (I) does not increase over time or the degree of increase in the detection value of the indoor air quality sensor over time does not exceed a predetermined degree, the control unit (C) decides to continue air supply operation, thereby continuing the air supply operation.

(14) Eleventh Example of Operation of Air Conditioner The air conditioner (1) is equipped with an odor sensor (56). If the detection value of the odor sensor (56) (concentration of odor components in the air in the room) increases over time, and if the degree of increase in the detection value of the odor sensor (56) over time exceeds a predetermined degree, the control unit (C) decides to perform exhaust operation, thereby switching from supply air operation to exhaust operation. During supply air operation, if the detection value of the odor sensor (56) does not increase over time, or if the degree of increase in the detection value of the odor sensor (56) over time does not exceed a predetermined degree, the control unit (C) decides to continue the supply air operation, and the supply air operation is continued.

Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various modifications of form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims (for example, (A) to (F) below). Furthermore, elements of the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be combined or substituted as appropriate.

The descriptions "first," "second," "third," etc. mentioned above are used to distinguish the words to which they are attached, and do not limit the number or order of those words.

(A) In the first (see FIG. 7) to fourth (see FIG. 10), ninth (see FIG. 15), tenth, and eleventh examples of the operation of the air conditioner (1) described above, odor intensity or particle amount is used as the component value. However, the type of component value is not limited to this. The component value may be anything that affects the user's comfort with respect to the air environment in the room (I), and may be, for example, the concentration of harmful gases, carbon dioxide concentration, etc. The same effect can be achieved even if the component values (odor intensity or particle amount) shown in each of the first to fourth, ninth, tenth, and eleventh examples of the operation of the air conditioner (1) are replaced with other types of component values (harmful gas concentration, carbon dioxide concentration, etc.).

(B) A passage may be provided inside the indoor casing (31) of the air conditioner indoor unit (30) to guide air sent from the outside to the inside of the indoor casing (31) during air supply operation to the suction side of the indoor heat exchanger (34). In this case, the control unit (C) may compare the detection value of the outdoor air humidity sensor (52) with the detection value of the indoor air temperature sensor (53), and cause the air conditioner (1) to perform air supply operation when the outdoor humidity is higher than the indoor humidity. As a result, the outdoor air sent to the air conditioner indoor unit (30) is immediately dehumidified by the indoor heat exchanger (34), and therefore the outdoor air can be dehumidified more effectively than if the outdoor air did not immediately reach the indoor heat exchanger (34) but instead reached the indoor heat exchanger (34) in a diluted state after mixing with the indoor air, and was dehumidified by the indoor heat exchanger (34).

(C) The control unit (C) may cause the air conditioner (1) to perform exhaust operation when the air conditioner (1) is started. This makes it possible to prevent unpleasant odors from being generated in the room (I) when the air treatment device (1) is started. Also, if moisture is present on the indoor heat exchanger (34), it is possible to prevent high humidity air from being supplied to the room (I) when the air treatment device (1) is started.

(D) The control unit (C) may stop the rotation of the outdoor fan (13) when the air conditioning device (1) is started.

(E) The control unit (C) may close the indoor air outlet (31b) by closing the flap (37) when the air conditioning device (1) is started. The flap (37) is an example of an air direction plate. The air direction plate may be a louver. This makes it possible to prevent outdoor air from being sent into the room when the air treatment device (1) is started.

(F) A modified example of the air conditioning device (1) will be described with reference to FIG. 16. The following describes the differences from the above-described embodiment. Note that, for convenience, the air conditioning indoor unit (30) and the air conditioning outdoor unit (10) are not shown in FIG. 14.

As shown in FIG. 14, the modified air conditioner (1) differs from the air conditioner (1) shown in FIG. 2 in that the second fan (23) and the third passage (62) are not provided.

In the modified example of the air conditioner (1), the operation of the humidification operation among the above-mentioned operation steps (3-1) to (3-8) differs from that of the air conditioner (1) shown in FIG. 2.

In a modified example of the air conditioner (1), during humidification operation, air humidified by the humidity control unit (20) is intermittently supplied to the room (I). In a modified example of the air conditioner (1), during humidification operation, the humidity control unit (20) alternately performs a third operation and a fourth operation. The third operation is an operation in which moisture in the air is adsorbed by the humidity control rotor (22) and the air that has passed through the humidity control rotor (22) is discharged to the outside of the room. The fourth operation is an operation in which the humidity control rotor (22) is regenerated and the air to which moisture has been added is supplied from the humidity control rotor (22) to the room (I).

Specifically, in the third operation, the control unit (C) operates the first fan (26), stops the heater (25), sets the first switching damper (24) to the fourth state, and sets the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state. The air transported by the first fan (26) flows through the first passage (27) and passes through the humidity control area (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the humidity control area (22A), moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The air that has absorbed moisture into the adsorbent in the humidity control area (22A) flows from the first passage (27) to the second passage (28) as shown by the black arrows in FIG. 7, and is discharged to the outside of the room.

In the fourth operation, the control unit (C) operates the first fan (26) and the heater (25), sets the first switching damper (24) to the third state, and sets the second switching damper (29) to the fifth state. The air conveyed by the first fan (26) flows through the first passage (27) and is heated by the heater (25), and then flows through the humidity control area (22A) of the humidity control rotor (22). In the humidity control area (22A), the adsorbent is regenerated. Specifically, the moisture adsorbed by the adsorbent is desorbed and released into the air. The air containing the moisture desorbed from the humidity control rotor (22) is sent to the air conditioning indoor unit (30) through the hose (2) and is supplied to the room (I) from the indoor air outlet (31b) of the air conditioning indoor unit (30).

As explained above, the present disclosure is useful for air treatment devices.

1. Air conditioning equipment (air treatment equipment)
10 Refrigeration device 13 Outdoor fan (fan)
30 Air conditioning indoor unit (indoor unit)
34 Indoor heat exchanger 37 Flap (wind deflector)
53 Inside air temperature sensor (temperature sensor)
54 Inside air humidity sensor (humidity sensor)
C Control section I Indoor

Claims

An air treatment device for ventilating a room (I),
A control unit (C) for controlling the operation of the air treatment device,
The control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform either an exhaust operation in which indoor air (I) is sent to the outside of the room, or an air supply operation in which outdoor air is sent to the room (I) based on the indoor environment or the outdoor environment.
an indoor heat exchanger (34) provided in an indoor unit (30) of the air treatment device;
The air treatment device according to claim 1 , wherein, when the air treatment device receives a stop instruction in a state where moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger (34), the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.
The air treatment device according to claim 2, wherein the case where the air treatment device receives a stop command when moisture is attached to the indoor heat exchanger (34) includes a case where the air treatment device performing cooling operation receives a stop command.
The air treatment device according to claim 2, wherein when the air treatment device receives a stop command while moisture is adhering to the indoor heat exchanger (34), the air treatment device performing cooling operation receives a stop command and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger (34) is lower than the dew point temperature of the air in the room (I).
The air treatment device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform either the exhaust operation or the supply operation based on the humidity in the room (I) or the humidity outside the room.
The air treatment device according to claim 5, wherein the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform either the exhaust operation or the supply operation based on information indicating the humidity in the room (I) acquired over time.
The control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform either the exhaust operation or the air supply operation based on the component values in the air in the room (I) or the component values in the air outside the room,
The air treatment device of claim 1 , wherein the component value indicates an amount of a predetermined gas component in the air, a concentration of a predetermined gas component in the air, or an amount of particles in the air.
The air treatment device according to claim 7, wherein the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform either the exhaust operation or the supply operation based on information indicating the component values in the room (I) acquired over time.
The air treatment device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation when the rate of change in the component value in the room (I) relative to the change in time is greater than a predetermined rate.
The air treatment device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the control unit (C) acquires a first sensor signal indicating the component value in the room (I), and when a high-frequency component having a predetermined frequency or higher among frequency components contained in a waveform representing the first sensor signal is equal to or higher than a predetermined ratio, causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.
The air treatment device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, during the air supply operation, if the component value in the room (I) increases over time and the degree of the increase exceeds a predetermined degree, the control unit (C) causes the air treatment device to perform the exhaust operation.