Classifications

• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
  • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
  • F24F11/00—Control or safety arrangements
  • F24F11/30—Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
  • F24F11/32—Responding to malfunctions or emergencies
  • F24F11/36—Responding to malfunctions or emergencies to leakage of heat-exchange fluid

Definitions

• This disclosure relates to an air conditioning system, an air conditioner, and a control method.
• operating data is transmitted periodically (e.g., monthly), and there are cases where flammable refrigerant leaks cannot be detected promptly and appropriately.
• This disclosure has been made to solve the above problems, and its purpose is to provide an air conditioning system, air conditioner, and control method that can properly detect the occurrence of a flammable refrigerant leak.
• one aspect of the present disclosure is an air conditioning system that includes a data collection unit that collects data related to the state of an air conditioner that uses a flammable refrigerant, and a transmission control unit that switches between a first mode in which the data collected by the data collection unit is normally transmitted to a management server, and a second mode in which the data is transmitted to the management server more frequently and with more transmission items than in the first mode, and that switches to the second mode when there is a possibility of an abnormality occurring in the air conditioner related to the flammable refrigerant.
• one aspect of the present disclosure is an air conditioner comprising: a data collection unit that collects data related to the state of an air conditioner that uses a flammable refrigerant; and a transmission control unit that switches between a first mode in which the data collected by the data collection unit is normally transmitted to a management server, and a second mode in which the data is transmitted to the management server more frequently and with more transmission items than in the first mode, and the transmission control unit switches to the second mode when there is a possibility of an abnormality occurring in the air conditioner related to the flammable refrigerant.
• Another aspect of the present disclosure is a control method in which a transmission control unit switches between a first mode in which a data collection unit collects data related to the state of an air conditioner using a flammable refrigerant and transmits the data collected by the data collection unit to a management server under normal conditions, and a second mode in which the data is transmitted to the management server more frequently and with more transmission items than in the first mode, and the transmission control unit switches to the second mode when there is a possibility of an abnormality occurring in the air conditioner related to the flammable refrigerant.
• This disclosure makes it possible to properly detect the occurrence of flammable refrigerant leaks and increase safety when using flammable refrigerants.
• FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of an air conditioning system according to a first embodiment.
• FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a detailed mode of the mobile terminal device according to the first embodiment.
• FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a display example in a normal mode of the mobile terminal device according to the first embodiment.
• FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen for changing to a detailed mode of the mobile terminal device according to the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment.
• FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of an air conditioning system according to a second embodiment.
• FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an abnormality sign detection process of a management server according to a second embodiment; 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the air conditioning system according to the second embodiment.
• FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of each device in the air conditioning system of the present disclosure.
• FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing an example of an air conditioning system 1 according to the first embodiment.
• the air conditioning system 1 includes an air conditioner 10, a management server 20, and a mobile terminal device 30.
• the air conditioning system 1 is an example of an air conditioning system.
• the air conditioner 10, management server 20, and mobile terminal device 30 can be connected to network NW1, and the air conditioner 10, management server 20, and mobile terminal device 30 can communicate with each other via network NW1.
• the mobile terminal device 30 is, for example, a smartphone or tablet terminal, and is a terminal device carried by a maintenance worker or user (end user) of the air conditioner 10.
• the mobile terminal device 30 has, for example, an operation application installed, and is used by a maintenance worker to perform maintenance or by a user to operate the air conditioner 10.
• the mobile terminal device 30 includes a NW communication unit (network communication unit) 31, an input unit 32, a display unit 33, a terminal memory unit 34, and a terminal control unit 35.
• the NW communication unit 31 is a communication device such as a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) adapter, and can connect to the network NW1 using a wireless LAN or the like.
• the NW communication unit 31 communicates with, for example, the air conditioners 10 and the management server 20 via the network NW1.
• the input unit 32 is an input device such as a touch sensor or keyboard, and accepts various input information in response to operations by a maintenance worker or user.
• the input unit 32 is used, for example, to input operation settings and set temperatures.
• the display unit 33 is, for example, a display device such as an LCD display, and displays various information.
• the display unit 33 displays operation settings and temperature settings, menu images or operation images for performing various operations, and data transmission mode information (described below).
• the terminal storage unit 34 stores various information used by the mobile terminal device 30 .
• the terminal control unit 35 is a processor including a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and performs overall control of the mobile terminal device 30.
• the terminal control unit 35 is a functional unit realized by, for example, causing the processor to execute a program stored in the terminal storage unit 34.
• Air conditioner 10 is an air conditioner that uses, for example, a flammable refrigerant (hereinafter sometimes referred to as flammable refrigerant) and has a refrigerant circuit (not shown) that circulates the flammable refrigerant.
• the refrigerant circuit is a circuit that circulates the refrigerant by connecting the indoor unit (not shown) and outdoor unit (not shown) equipped in air conditioner 10 with refrigerant piping.
• the refrigerant circuit has, for example, a compressor that compresses the refrigerant, a four-way valve that changes the direction in which the refrigerant circulates, an expansion valve, an indoor heat exchanger, and an outdoor heat exchanger.
• the air conditioner 10 also includes a network communication unit 11, an RC communication unit (remote controller communication unit) 12, a sensor unit 13, an air conditioning memory unit 14, and an air conditioning control unit 15.
• RC communication unit remote controller communication unit
• sensor unit 13 an air conditioning memory unit 14
• air conditioning control unit 15 an air conditioning control unit 16.
• the NW communication unit 11 is, for example, a communication device such as a wireless LAN adapter, and can connect to the network NW1 using a wireless LAN or the like.
• the NW communication unit 11 communicates with, for example, the management server 20 and the mobile terminal device 30 via the network NW1.
• the NW communication unit 11 may also communicate with the mobile terminal device 30 via the management server 20.
• the RC communication unit 12 communicates with a remote controller (not shown), for example, using infrared communication.
• the RC communication unit 12 receives, for example, control commands to operate the air conditioner 10 from the remote controller.
• the sensor unit 13 is a variety of sensors provided in the air conditioner 10, such as a refrigerant sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a pressure sensor.
• the refrigerant sensor detects leakage of flammable refrigerant.
• Multiple temperature sensors are also provided, detecting the pipe temperature (or refrigerant temperature) of each part of the refrigerant circuit, the indoor temperature, and the outdoor air temperature.
• the temperature sensors can detect, for example, the pipe temperature (refrigerant temperature) before and after the compressor, the pipe temperature (refrigerant temperature) before and after the heat exchanger, and the temperature inside the indoor unit housing.
• the humidity sensor detects the indoor humidity, the outdoor humidity, etc.
• the pressure sensor detects the refrigerant pressure in each section.
• the pressure sensor can detect the refrigerant pressure before and after the compressor.
• the sensor unit 13 also includes a current detection unit that detects the current consumption of the compressor, the total current consumption of the air conditioner 10, and the like.
• the air conditioning memory unit 14 stores various information used by the air conditioner 10.
• the air conditioning memory unit 14 includes a model information memory unit 141, a collection result memory unit 142, a mode memory unit 143, and an accumulated information memory unit 144.
• the model information storage unit 141 stores model information for the air conditioner 10.
• the model information for the air conditioner 10 includes, for example, the model code of the air conditioner 10, the type of refrigerant, sensor placement information, the configuration of the refrigerant circuit, the type of installed sensor, and collectable data items.
• the collection result storage unit 142 stores the collection results collected by the air conditioner 10.
• the collection result storage unit 142 stores, as collection results, various data detected by the sensor unit 13, the operating history of the air conditioner 10, and the history of abnormality occurrences.
• the information stored in the collection result storage unit 142 is used to transmit data to the management server 20 by the transmission control unit 153, which will be described later.
• the mode memory unit 143 stores information regarding the mode of data transmission to the management server 20, which will be described later.
• the mode memory unit 143 stores the setting information for each transmission mode in association with the currently set mode information.
• the setting information for each transmission mode includes, for example, the transmission interval, the data items to be transmitted in that mode, etc.
• the mode storage unit 143 stores the transmission interval (transmission frequency) and data items (transmission items) for each of the normal mode and detailed mode. Details of the normal mode and detailed mode will be described later.
• the integrated information storage unit 144 stores information related to integrated values.
• the integrated value is, for example, the integrated operating time or integrated power consumption of the air conditioner 10, and is used as a condition for switching from detailed mode to normal mode.
• the integrated information storage unit 144 also stores, for example, integrated values in association with threshold values for those integrated values.
• the air conditioning control unit 15 is, for example, a processor including a CPU, and performs overall control of the air conditioner 10.
• the air conditioning control unit 15 is, for example, a functional unit realized by causing the processor to execute a program stored in the air conditioning storage unit 14.
• the air conditioning control unit 15 includes an operation control unit 151 , a data collection unit 152 , and a transmission control unit 153 .
• the operation control unit 151 controls air conditioning operation based on control commands received, for example, from a remote controller (not shown) or a mobile terminal device 30 equipped with an operation application.
• the operation control unit 151 receives control commands from the remote controller via the RC communication unit 12, and receives control commands from the mobile terminal device 30 via the NW communication unit 11.
• the control command also includes operation settings (heating operation, cooling operation, etc.), set temperature, and airflow settings, and the operation control unit 151 controls the operation of the air conditioner 10, including the refrigerant circuit, based on the received operation settings (heating operation, cooling operation, etc.), set temperature, and airflow settings, etc.
• the operation control unit 151 detects an abnormality in the air conditioner 10 based on the detection data of the sensor unit 13, or if it receives a notification from the management server 20 that an abnormality has occurred in the air conditioner 10, it executes abnormality response processing to deal with the abnormality.
• the operation control unit 151 outputs an alert to the user of the air conditioner 10, for example.
• the operation control unit 151 displays information indicating the abnormality (for example, an error code or message) on the remote controller or the user's mobile terminal device 30.
• the data collection unit 152 collects data related to the state of the air conditioner 10 that uses a flammable refrigerant.
• the data collection unit 152 collects, for example, various data detected by the sensor unit 13 and stores the collected data in the collection result storage unit 142.
• the data collection unit 152 also collects the operating state controlled by the operation control unit 151, abnormality occurrence history, protective stop history, etc., and stores the collected operating state history information, abnormality occurrence history, protective stop history, etc. in the collection result storage unit 142.
• the transmission control unit 153 controls the transmission of data collected by the data collection unit 152 to the management server 20.
• the transmission control unit 153 switches the mode for transmitting data to the management server 20 between normal mode (first mode) and detailed mode (second mode).
• normal mode is a transmission mode in which data collected by the data collection unit 152 when the air conditioner 10 is in a normal state is transmitted to the management server 20.
• the transmission control unit 153 transmits data of predetermined transmission items (e.g., indoor temperature, indoor humidity, outdoor temperature, etc.), which are part of the data items collected by the data collection unit 152, to the management server 20 at specific intervals (specific transmission frequency) via the NW communication unit.
• predetermined transmission items e.g., indoor temperature, indoor humidity, outdoor temperature, etc.
• the transmission control unit 153 transmits the data stored in the collection result memory unit 142 to the management server 20 based on the transmission interval (transmission frequency) and data items (transmission items) corresponding to the normal mode stored in the mode memory unit 143.
• detailed mode is a transmission mode in which data is transmitted to the management server 20 more frequently and with more transmission items than normal mode.
• the transmission items in detailed mode are items for detecting abnormalities such as flammable refrigerant leaks, such as the detection value of the refrigerant sensor, the refrigerant temperature immediately after being discharged from the compressor, the refrigerant temperature (fluctuations) before and after passing through the heat exchanger, the amount of power required to operate the compressor (fluctuations), the operating frequency of the compressor, and the LEV opening (opening of the expansion valve).
• the transmission items may also include historical information about the operation of the air conditioner 10, abnormality occurrence history, and protective shutdown history.
• the transmission control unit 153 transmits the data of the above-mentioned transmission items to the management server 20 via the NW communication unit at a higher transmission frequency than in normal mode. Specifically, when the mode information stored in the mode memory unit 143 indicates detailed mode, the transmission control unit 153 transmits the data stored in the collection result memory unit 142 to the management server 20 based on the transmission interval (transmission frequency) and data items (transmission items) corresponding to the detailed mode stored in the mode memory unit 143.
• the transmission control unit 153 switches to detailed mode when there is a possibility that an abnormality related to a flammable refrigerant may occur in the air conditioner 10.
• "when there is a possibility that an abnormality related to a flammable refrigerant may occur in the air conditioner 10" includes, for example, the following cases (1) and (2).
• this may also include use in environments where particular and constant caution is required, such as in kitchens where fire is used and flammable refrigerants are used.
• the transmission control unit 153 switches to detailed mode and maintains the detailed mode until the set conditions are met.
• the period that satisfies the condition is the period during which the accumulated value, which is the accumulated operating time or accumulated power consumption of the air conditioner 10, is equal to or less than a threshold value.
• the transmission control unit 153 periodically calculates the accumulated operating time or accumulated power consumption, and updates the information related to the accumulated value stored in the accumulated information storage unit 144.
• the transmission control unit 153 references the accumulated information storage unit 144, and switches from detailed mode to normal mode when the accumulated value exceeds the threshold value.
• the transmission control unit 153 outputs information indicating that the air conditioner 10 is in the detailed mode to the mobile terminal device 30 that can communicate with the air conditioner 10 or the management server 20.
• the transmission control unit 153 displays a message indicating that the air conditioner 10 is in the detailed mode on the display unit 33 of the mobile terminal device 30, as shown in FIG. 2.
• FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a display in the detail mode of the mobile terminal device 30 according to this embodiment.
• the display screen G1 shown in Figure 2 shows an example of the display of the detailed mode of the mobile terminal device 30, and the mobile terminal device 30 displays the message "[Data communication: detailed mode] Analyzing whether there are any abnormalities in the installation work" on the display unit 33 as information indicating the detailed mode.
• the transmission control unit 153 may output a message indicating that the mobile terminal device 30 is in detailed mode directly via the NW communication unit 11, or may output a message indicating that the mobile terminal device 30 is in detailed mode via the management server 20.
• the transmission control unit 153 causes the display unit 33 of the mobile terminal device 30 to display a message indicating that the mode has been switched to normal mode, as shown in FIG. 3, for example.
• FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a display in the normal mode of the mobile terminal device 30 according to this embodiment.
• the display screen G2 shown in Figure 3 shows an example of the display of the mobile terminal device 30 in normal mode, and the mobile terminal device 30 displays the message "No abnormalities were found in the installation work [Data communication: normal mode]" on the display unit 33 as information indicating that the mobile terminal device 30 has transitioned to normal mode.
• a maintenance worker or user determines that an abnormality may occur as in (2) above, the maintenance worker or user (end user) operates the mobile terminal device 30, for example, to switch the air conditioner 10 to detailed mode.
• the transmission control unit 153 receives a request to switch to detailed mode from the mobile terminal device 30 via the NW communication unit 11, it switches from normal mode to detailed mode.
• the mobile terminal device 30 When a maintenance worker or end user operates a button on the operation application as shown in Figure 4, the mobile terminal device 30 sends a request to switch to detailed mode to the air conditioner 10 via the NW communication unit 31.
• FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for changing to the detailed mode of the mobile terminal device 30 in this embodiment.
• the display screen G3 shown in FIG. 4 shows an example of a screen for changing to the detailed mode. For example, by moving the “fault analysis mode” button to the right using the input unit 32, the mobile terminal device 30 transmits a request to switch to the detailed mode to the air conditioner 10.
• the transmission control unit 153 resets the integrated value in response to a reset request.
• the reset request is sent to the air conditioner 10 by operating a reset button (not shown) provided on the air conditioner 10, operating a remote controller, or operating the mobile terminal device 30.
• the transmission control unit 153 resets the integrated value stored in the integrated information storage unit 144, and makes the detailed mode executable for the period until the integrated value reaches the threshold value.
• the management server 20 is a server device that manages the air conditioners 10 and executes management processing for the multiple registered air conditioners 10.
• the management server 20 includes a network communication unit 21, a server storage unit 22, and a server control unit 23.
• the NW communication unit 21 is a communication device such as a wired LAN adapter or a wireless LAN adapter, and can be connected to the network NW1.
• the NW communication unit 21 communicates with, for example, the air conditioner 10 and the mobile terminal device 30 via the network NW1.
• the server storage unit 22 stores various information used by the management server 20.
• the server storage unit 22 includes a registration information storage unit 221 and a collected information storage unit 222.
• the registration information storage unit 221 stores the registration information of each air conditioner 10 registered in the air conditioning system 1.
• the registration information includes, for example, the model code of the air conditioner 10, the type of refrigerant, the configuration of the refrigerant circuit, the type of sensor installed, sensor placement information, collectable data items, user identification information that identifies the user, and terminal identification information that identifies the user's mobile terminal device 30.
• the registration information may also include setting information for data items and transmission frequencies for each of the normal mode and detailed mode.
• the registration information storage unit 221 stores air conditioner identification information that identifies the air conditioner 10 in association with the registration information.
• the registration information stored in the registration information storage unit 221 is information acquired from the air conditioner 10 or the mobile terminal device 30 when the air conditioner 10 is registered in the air conditioning system 1 .
• the collected information storage unit 222 stores transmission data (collected data) received from each air conditioner 10 registered in the air conditioning system 1.
• the collected information storage unit 222 stores, for example, air conditioner identification information, date and time information for the collected data, and the collected data in association with each other.
• the collected data stored in the collected information storage unit 222 is used to detect abnormalities (e.g., refrigerant leaks) in each air conditioner 10.
• the server control unit 23 is, for example, a processor including a CPU, and performs overall control of the management server 20.
• the server control unit 23 is, for example, a functional unit realized by having the processor execute a program stored in the server storage unit 22.
• the server control unit 23 manages each air conditioner 10, receives transmission data sent by each air conditioner 10 via the NW communication unit 21, and stores the data in the collected information storage unit 222.
• the server control unit 23 detects abnormalities (e.g., refrigerant leaks) in each air conditioner 10 based on the information stored in the collected information storage unit 222, and if an abnormality is detected, outputs an alert to the user of the air conditioner 10.
• abnormalities e.g., refrigerant leaks
• the server control unit 23 detects a flammable refrigerant leak based on data transmitted from the air conditioner 10, for example, in detailed mode. For example, when a flammable refrigerant leaks, it is detected by the refrigerant sensor and the temperature inside the indoor unit housing changes. In this case, the server control unit 23 detects a flammable refrigerant leak based on the value detected by the refrigerant sensor or the change in temperature inside the indoor unit housing.
• the server control unit 23 detects a flammable refrigerant leak based on the change in the refrigerant temperature immediately after it is discharged from the compressor or the change in the refrigerant temperature before and after it passes through the heat exchanger.
• the server control unit 23 detects a flammable refrigerant leak based on changes in the current consumed by the compressor. Note that if the current value cannot be measured, the server control unit 23 may determine whether the current value is appropriate based on the compressor frequency (rotation speed) and the LEV opening of the expansion valve (expansion valve).
• the server control unit 23 may also detect a flammable refrigerant leak from the determination status (protection stop status) of various protective controls detected by the air conditioning control unit 15 of the air conditioner 10 and the history of abnormality occurrences.
• the server control unit 23 If the server control unit 23 detects an abnormality in the air conditioner 10, such as a leak of flammable refrigerant, it outputs an alarm to the air conditioner 10 and the user's mobile terminal device 30, for example, via the NW communication unit 21.
• an abnormality in the air conditioner 10 such as a leak of flammable refrigerant
• FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the air conditioning system 1 according to this embodiment.
• the data transmission operation of the air conditioner 10 will be described.
• step S101 when the air conditioner 10 is started after being installed (set up), it first determines whether a flammable refrigerant is enclosed (step S101).
• the transmission control unit 153 of the air conditioner 10 references the model information storage unit 141 and determines whether a flammable refrigerant is enclosed based on, for example, model information (e.g., model code, type of refrigerant). If a flammable refrigerant is enclosed (step S101: YES), the transmission control unit 153 proceeds to step S102. If a flammable refrigerant is not enclosed (step S101: NO), the transmission control unit 153 proceeds to step S104.
• model information e.g., model code, type of refrigerant
• step S102 the transmission control unit 153 determines whether the integrated value is equal to or less than the threshold value Th.
• the transmission control unit 153 determines whether the integrated value stored in the integrated information storage unit 144 is equal to or less than the set threshold value Th.
• the integrated value is the integrated operating time, the integrated power consumption, etc. If the integrated value is equal to or less than the threshold value Th (step S102: YES), the transmission control unit 153 proceeds to step S103. If the integrated value exceeds the threshold value Th (step S102: NO), the transmission control unit 153 proceeds to step S104.
• step S103 the transmission control unit 153 sets data transmission to detailed mode.
• the transmission control unit 153 changes the mode information stored in the mode memory unit 143 to information indicating detailed mode.
• the transmission control unit 153 transmits the data stored in the collection result memory unit 142 to the management server 20 based on the detailed mode setting information (transmission interval (transmission frequency) and data items (transmission items)) stored in the mode memory unit 143.
• the transmission control unit 153 returns the process to step S102.
• step S104 the transmission control unit 153 sets data transmission to normal mode.
• the transmission control unit 153 changes the mode information stored in the mode memory unit 143 to information indicating normal mode.
• the transmission control unit 153 transmits the data stored in the collection result memory unit 142 to the management server 20 based on the normal mode setting information (transmission interval (transmission frequency) and data items (transmission items)) stored in the mode memory unit 143.
• the transmission control unit 153 determines whether there is a request to reset the integrated value (step S105).
• the transmission control unit 153 determines whether a reset request has been received, for example, by operating a reset button (not shown) on the air conditioner 10, operating a remote controller, or operating the mobile terminal device 30. If there is a request to reset the integrated value (step S105: YES), the transmission control unit 153 proceeds to step S106. If there is no request to reset the integrated value (step S105: NO), the transmission control unit 153 returns the process to step S104.
• step S106 the transmission control unit 153 resets the integrated value.
• the transmission control unit 153 changes the integrated value stored in the integrated information storage unit 144 to an initial value (e.g., "0"), thereby resetting (initializing) the integrated value.
• the transmission control unit 153 returns the process to step S101.
• the air conditioning system 1 (air conditioning system) according to this embodiment includes a data collection unit 152 and a transmission control unit 153.
• the data collection unit 152 collects data related to the state of the air conditioner 10 (air conditioner) that uses a flammable refrigerant.
• the transmission control unit 153 switches between normal mode (first mode) and detailed mode (second mode).
• the normal mode (first mode) is a mode in which data collected by the data collection unit 152 in a normal state is sent to the management server 20
• the detailed mode (second mode) is a mode in which data is sent more frequently and with more transmission items than in normal mode is sent to the management server 20.
• the transmission control unit 153 switches to detailed mode when there is a possibility that an abnormality related to the flammable refrigerant may occur in the air conditioner 10 (for example, immediately after the air conditioner 10 is installed).
• the air conditioning system 1 (air conditioning system) according to this embodiment transmits detailed data to the management server 20 in detailed mode, which has a higher transmission frequency and more transmission items than normal mode. Therefore, for example, the management server 20 can quickly and appropriately detect the occurrence of a flammable refrigerant leak based on the detailed mode data. Therefore, the air conditioning system 1 (air conditioning system) according to this embodiment can appropriately detect the occurrence of a flammable refrigerant leak and increase safety when using flammable refrigerant.
• the air conditioning system 1 switches from normal mode to detailed mode when there is a possibility of an abnormality related to flammable refrigerant occurring in the air conditioner 10, thereby reducing communication volume and consumption of management server 20 resources and reducing the load on the entire system caused by detecting the occurrence of a flammable refrigerant leak.
• the transmission control unit 153 maintains the detailed mode until the set conditions are met.
• the air conditioning system 1 of this embodiment can monitor for the occurrence of flammable refrigerant leakage for a certain period of time until set conditions are met when there is a possibility of an abnormality related to flammable refrigerant occurring in the air conditioner 10, thereby further increasing safety when using flammable refrigerant.
• the period that satisfies the condition is a period during which the accumulated value, which is the accumulated operating time or accumulated power consumption of the air conditioner 10, is equal to or less than a threshold. If the accumulated value exceeds the threshold, the transmission control unit 153 switches from detailed mode to normal mode.
• the cumulative operating time or cumulative power consumption is an indicator that indicates that the air conditioner 10 has actually been used for a certain period of time. Therefore, by using these cumulative values, the air conditioning system 1 according to this embodiment can appropriately determine whether it is safe in terms of the occurrence of a flammable refrigerant leak. Therefore, the air conditioning system 1 according to this embodiment can appropriately confirm whether it is safe in terms of the occurrence of a flammable refrigerant leak and quickly switch to normal mode.
• the transmission control unit 153 resets the integrated value in response to a reset request.
• the air conditioning system 1 of this embodiment can be switched back to detailed mode when, for example, the air conditioner 10 is reinstalled due to a move, parts are replaced, piping is adjusted, etc., and safety can be properly confirmed.
• cases where the above-mentioned abnormality may occur include when the air conditioner 10 is installed (placed).
• the transmission control unit 153 switches to detailed mode and maintains the detailed mode for the period during which the conditions are met.
• the air conditioning system 1 can increase safety when the air conditioner 10 is installed.
• the transmission control unit 153 when the air conditioner 10 is in detailed mode, the transmission control unit 153 outputs information indicating that the air conditioner 10 is in detailed mode to a mobile terminal device 30 that can communicate with the air conditioner 10 or the management server 20.
• the air conditioning system 1 can, for example, determine at a glance whether there is a risk of a refrigerant leak by knowing the current data transmission status of the air conditioner 10. Furthermore, the air conditioning system 1 according to this embodiment allows maintenance workers to obtain additional information (analysis results based on detailed data) useful for services based on the output (e.g., display) of the mobile terminal device 30. Furthermore, the air conditioning system 1 according to this embodiment allows users to determine whether an unnecessary increase in communication is increasing communication and consuming communication resources.
• the data transmitted from the air conditioner 10 includes at least any of the following: detection data from the refrigerant sensor, temperature data of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant circuit, refrigerant pressure data, and current consumption by the compressor in the refrigerant circuit.
• the detection data of the refrigerant sensor, the temperature data of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant circuit, the pressure data of the refrigerant, and the current consumption data of the compressor of the refrigerant circuit are all data that change before and after a refrigerant leak.
• these data are sent to the management server 20, so the management server 20 can indirectly detect or estimate a flammable refrigerant leak based on the data sent from the air conditioner 10.
• the management server 20 when the management server 20 detects a flammable refrigerant leak based on data transmitted from the air conditioner 10 in detailed mode, it outputs an alert to the user of the air conditioner 10.
• the air conditioning system 1 when the air conditioning system 1 according to this embodiment detects a flammable refrigerant leak, it can reduce the impact of the refrigerant leak on users and ensure their safety.
• the air conditioner 10 (air conditioner) also includes a data collection unit 152 and a transmission control unit 153.
• the data collection unit 152 collects data related to the state of the air conditioner 10 (air conditioner) that uses a flammable refrigerant.
• the transmission control unit 153 switches between a normal mode (first mode) and a detailed mode (second mode).
• the normal mode (first mode) is a mode in which data collected by the data collection unit 152 in a normal state is sent to the management server 20
• the detailed mode (second mode) is a mode in which data is sent more frequently and with more transmission items than in the normal mode is sent to the management server 20.
• the transmission control unit 153 switches to the detailed mode when there is a possibility of an abnormality related to the flammable refrigerant occurring in the air conditioner 10.
• the air conditioner 10 (air conditioner) according to this embodiment achieves the same effects as the air conditioning system 1 described above, and can properly detect the occurrence of a flammable refrigerant leak, thereby increasing safety when using flammable refrigerant.
• the control method is a control method for the air conditioning system 1 described above, and includes a data collection step and a transmission control step.
• the data collection step the data collection unit 152 collects data related to the state of the air conditioner 10 using a flammable refrigerant.
• the transmission control unit 153 switches between a normal mode in which data collected by the data collection unit 152 in a normal state is sent to the management server 20, and a detailed mode in which data with a higher transmission frequency and more transmission items is sent to the management server 20 than in the normal mode.
• the transmission control unit 153 switches to the detailed mode if there is a possibility of an abnormality related to the flammable refrigerant occurring in the air conditioner 10.
• control method achieves the same effects as the air conditioning system 1 described above, making it possible to properly detect the occurrence of a flammable refrigerant leak and increase safety when using a flammable refrigerant.
• FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram showing an example of an air conditioning system 1a according to the second embodiment.
• the air conditioning system 1a includes an air conditioner 10a, a management server 20a, and a mobile terminal device 30.
• the air conditioning system 1a is an example of an air conditioning system.
• the air conditioning system 1a of this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that a leakage sign determination unit 231 has been added to the management server 20a, and that processing related to the leakage sign determination unit 231 has been added to the transmission control unit 153a of the air conditioner 10a.
• the management server 20a includes a network communication unit 21, a server storage unit 22, and a server control unit 23a.
• the server control unit 23a is, for example, a processor including a CPU, and performs overall control of the management server 20a.
• the server control unit 23a is, for example, a functional unit realized by causing the processor to execute a program stored in the server storage unit 22.
• the server control unit 23a is also capable of executing the same processes as the server control unit 23 of the first embodiment described above.
• the server control unit 23 a also includes a leakage indication determination unit 231 .
• the leak sign determination unit 231 determines signs of a flammable refrigerant leak based on data stored in the collected information storage unit 222 (collected data sent from the air conditioner 10a in detailed mode). Similar to detecting a flammable refrigerant leak, the leak sign determination unit 231 determines signs of a flammable refrigerant leak based on, for example, changes in the detection value of the refrigerant sensor, changes in the temperature inside the indoor unit casing, changes in the refrigerant temperature immediately after being discharged from the compressor, changes in the refrigerant temperature before and after passing through the heat exchanger, changes in the current consumption of the compressor, the control determination state (protective stop state), or a history of abnormality occurrences.
• the leak sign determination unit 231 determines (detects) a sign of a flammable refrigerant leak, it notifies the corresponding air conditioner 10a that a sign of a flammable refrigerant leak has been detected.
• the leak sign determination unit 231 notifies the air conditioner 10a via the NW communication unit 21 that a sign of a flammable refrigerant leak has been detected.
• the air conditioner 10a (an example of an air conditioner) includes a network communication unit 11, an RC communication unit 12, a sensor unit 13, an air conditioning memory unit 14, and an air conditioning control unit 15a.
• the air conditioning control unit 15a is, for example, a processor including a CPU, and performs overall control of the air conditioner 10a.
• the air conditioning control unit 15a is, for example, a functional unit realized by causing the processor to execute a program stored in the air conditioning storage unit 14.
• the air conditioning control unit 15a includes an operation control unit 151, a data collection unit 152, and a transmission control unit 153a.
• the transmission control unit 153a switches to detailed mode when there is a possibility that an abnormality related to a flammable refrigerant may occur in the air conditioner 10.
• "when there is a possibility that an abnormality related to a flammable refrigerant may occur in the air conditioner 10" includes the following case (3) in addition to the cases (1) and (2) described above.
• cases where there is a possibility of an abnormality occurring include cases where the leakage sign determination unit 231 determines that there is a sign of a flammable refrigerant leak in the air conditioner 10a.
• the above-mentioned (3) is a case where the transmission control unit 153a is notified, for example, by the management server 20a, that it has detected signs of a flammable refrigerant leak. In this case, the transmission control unit 153a switches from normal mode to detailed mode and maintains the detailed mode for a period of time during which the condition (for example, the integrated value is below a threshold) is satisfied.
• the transmission control unit 153a may, for example, set an integrated value threshold Th2 (second threshold) that is different from the integrated value threshold Th1 (first threshold) in case (1).
• the transmission control unit 153a may reset the integrated value in case (3).
• the transmission control unit 153a may set a different value for the threshold value Th2 depending on the possibility of an abnormality occurring (for example, the likelihood or urgency of the indication of a flammable refrigerant leak).
• FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of an abnormality sign detection process of the management server 20a according to this embodiment.
• the leak sign determination unit 231 of the management server 20a first analyzes the collected data (step S201).
• the leak sign determination unit 231 analyzes the collected data stored in the collected information storage unit 222 and detects signs of a flammable refrigerant leak as signs of an abnormality.
• the leak sign determination unit 231 determines whether or not a sign of abnormality has been detected (step S202).
• the leak sign determination unit 231 determines whether or not a sign of abnormality, such as a sign of a flammable refrigerant leak, has been detected. If the leak sign determination unit 231 detects a sign of abnormality (step S202: YES), the process proceeds to step S203. If the leak sign determination unit 231 does not detect a sign of abnormality (step S202: NO), the process returns to step S201.
• step S203 the leak sign determination unit 231 notifies the air conditioner 10a that a sign of abnormality has been detected.
• the leak sign determination unit 231 transmits a notification indicating that a sign of abnormality has been detected (for example, a notification indicating that a sign of a flammable refrigerant leak has been detected) to the corresponding air conditioner 10a via the NW communication unit 21.
• the leak sign determination unit 231 returns the processing to step S201.
• FIG. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the air conditioning system 1a according to this embodiment.
• Fig. 8 the data transmission operation of the air conditioner 10a will be described.
• step S301 when the air conditioner 10a is started after installation, it first determines whether a flammable refrigerant is contained (step S301). If a flammable refrigerant is contained (step S301: YES), the transmission control unit 153a of the air conditioner 10a proceeds to step S302. If a flammable refrigerant is not contained (step S301: NO), the transmission control unit 153a proceeds to step S304.
• step S302 the transmission control unit 153a determines whether the integrated value is equal to or less than the threshold value Th1.
• the transmission control unit 153a determines whether the integrated value stored in the integrated information storage unit 144 is equal to or less than the set threshold value Th1. If the integrated value is equal to or less than the threshold value Th1 (step S302: YES), the transmission control unit 153a proceeds to step S303. If the integrated value exceeds the threshold value Th1 (step S302: NO), the transmission control unit 153a proceeds to step S304.
• step S303 the transmission control unit 153a sets data transmission to detailed mode.
• the transmission control unit 153a changes the mode information stored in the mode memory unit 143 to information indicating detailed mode.
• the transmission control unit 153a transmits the data stored in the collection result memory unit 142 to the management server 20a based on the detailed mode setting information (transmission interval (transmission frequency) and data items (transmission items)) stored in the mode memory unit 143.
• the transmission control unit 153a returns the process to step S302.
• step S304 the transmission control unit 153a determines whether or not a sign of abnormality has been detected.
• the transmission control unit 153a determines whether or not a normal sign has been detected based on whether or not a notification indicating that a sign of abnormality has been detected (for example, a notification indicating that a sign of a flammable refrigerant leak has been detected) has been received from the leakage sign determination unit 231 of the management server 20a. If the transmission control unit 153a detects a sign of abnormality (step S304: YES), the processing proceeds to step S305. If the transmission control unit 153a has not detected a sign of abnormality (step S304: NO), the processing proceeds to step S308.
• step S305 the transmission control unit 153a sets the threshold value Th2.
• the transmission control unit 153a sets the threshold value Th2 as the threshold value of the integrated value stored in the integrated information storage unit 144.
• the transmission control unit 153a determines whether the integrated value is equal to or less than threshold value Th1 (step S306).
• the transmission control unit 153a determines whether the integrated value stored in the integrated information storage unit 144 is equal to or less than the set threshold value Th2. If the integrated value is equal to or less than threshold value Th2 (step S306: YES), the transmission control unit 153a proceeds to step S307. If the integrated value exceeds threshold value Th2 (step S306: NO), the transmission control unit 153a proceeds to step S308.
• step S307 the transmission control unit 153a sets data transmission to detailed mode.
• the transmission control unit 153a changes the mode information stored in the mode memory unit 143 to information indicating detailed mode.
• the transmission control unit 153a again transmits the data stored in the collection result memory unit 142 to the management server 20a based on the detailed mode setting information (transmission interval (transmission frequency) and data items (transmission items)) stored in the mode memory unit 143.
• the transmission control unit 153a returns the process to step S306.
• step S308 the transmission control unit 153a sets data transmission to normal mode.
• the transmission control unit 153a changes the mode information stored in the mode memory unit 143 to information indicating normal mode.
• the transmission control unit 153a transmits the data stored in the collection result memory unit 142 to the management server 20a based on the normal mode setting information (transmission interval (transmission frequency) and data items (transmission items)) stored in the mode memory unit 143.
• the transmission control unit 153a determines whether there is a request to reset the integrated value (step S309).
• the transmission control unit 153a determines whether a reset request has been received, for example, by operating a reset button (not shown) on the air conditioner 10, operating a remote controller, or operating the mobile terminal device 30. If there is a request to reset the integrated value (step S309: YES), the transmission control unit 153a proceeds to step S310. If there is no request to reset the integrated value (step S309: NO), the transmission control unit 153a returns the process to step S304.
• step S310 the transmission control unit 153a resets the integrated value.
• the transmission control unit 153a changes the integrated value stored in the integrated information storage unit 144 to an initial value (e.g., "0"), thereby resetting (initializing) the integrated value.
• the transmission control unit 153a may also change the setting of the threshold value (threshold value Th1) in addition to resetting the integrated value.
• the transmission control unit 153a returns the process to step S301.
• the air conditioning system 1a (air conditioning system) according to this embodiment comprises a data collection unit 152, a transmission control unit 153a, and a leak sign determination unit 231.
• the leak sign determination unit 231 determines signs of a flammable refrigerant leak based on the data. Cases where an abnormality may occur include when the leak sign determination unit 231 determines that there are signs of a leak in the air conditioner 10.
• the transmission control unit 153a switches to detailed mode and maintains the detailed mode for a period of time that meets preset conditions.
• the air conditioning system 1a switches to detailed mode if there are signs of a leak in the air conditioner 10, thereby properly detecting the occurrence of a flammable refrigerant leak and further increasing safety when using flammable refrigerant.
• the transmission control unit 153a when the transmission control unit 153a resets the integrated value, the transmission control unit 153a may set a different value for the threshold depending on the possibility of an abnormality occurring.
• the air conditioning system 1a according to this embodiment can set a small threshold value and perform short-term monitoring for air conditioners 10a that are unlikely to experience an abnormality, and set a large threshold value and perform short-term monitoring for air conditioners 10a that are likely to experience an abnormality. This allows the air conditioning system 1a according to this embodiment to reduce unnecessary communication or resource consumption and efficiently improve safety when using a flammable refrigerant.
• FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of each device of the air conditioning system 1 (1a).
• the devices shown in FIG. 9 show the main hardware configuration of each device (air conditioner 10 (10a), management server 20 (20a), mobile terminal device 30) of the air conditioning system 1 (1a).
• each device in the air conditioning system 1 (1a) includes a communication device H11, memory H12, and processor H13.
• the communication device H11 is a communication device that can be connected to the network NW1, such as a LAN card or a wireless LAN.
• the memory H12 is a storage device such as RAM, flash memory, or HDD, and stores various information and programs used by each control device (air conditioner 10 (10a), management server 20 (20a), mobile terminal device 30).
• the processor H13 is a processing circuit that includes, for example, a CPU.
• the processor H13 executes programs stored in the memory H12 to perform various processes for each control device (air conditioner 10 (10a), management server 20 (20a), and mobile terminal device 30).
• the mobile terminal device 30 further includes an input device corresponding to the input unit 32 and a display device (display device) corresponding to the display unit 33.
• the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be modified within the scope of the present disclosure.
• the air conditioner 10 (10a) is equipped with the transmission control unit 153 (153a), but this is not limited to this, and for example, part or all of the transmission control unit 153 (153a) may be equipped in the management server 20 (20a).
• the management server 20 (20a) may be provided with a transmission control unit 153 (153a).
• the transmission control unit provided in the management server 20 (20a) switches the mode of the air conditioner 10 (10a), sends a request to send collected data to the air conditioner 10 (10a), and causes the air conditioner 10 (10a) to send the collected data to the management server 20 (20a).
• the management server 20a is equipped with the leak sign determination unit 231, but this is not limited to this, and the air conditioner 10a may also be equipped with the leak sign determination unit 231.
• the accumulated operating time and accumulated power consumption of the air conditioner 10 (10a) are used as the accumulated values, but this is not limited to this.
• the accumulated operating time of the compressor the accumulated number of times the compressor has been turned on/off, the accumulated number of times the air conditioner 10 (10a) has been turned on/off, etc. may also be used.
• the integrated value may be integrated for each operating mode, such as heating operation, cooling operation, etc.
• the air conditioning system 1 (1a) checks for each operating mode, allowing for more accurate detection of flammable refrigerant leaks and further improving safety when using flammable refrigerants.
• the threshold value of the integrated value used to determine the period for maintaining detailed mode is set to a different value depending on the possibility of an abnormality occurring, but this is not limited to this, and the threshold may be changed depending on the region in which the air conditioner 10 (10a) is installed, the season, etc.
• the transmission control unit 153 (153a) may change the threshold depending on the season and the outdoor air temperature detected by the outdoor unit.
• the transmission control unit 153 (153a) may change the threshold depending on the model of the air conditioner 10 (10a).
• the transmission control unit 153 (153a) may increase the threshold (lengthen the period for detailed mode) for models with many malfunctions or for regions with many malfunctions.
• the transmission control unit 153 has been described as setting different threshold values depending on the possibility of an abnormality occurring, but the threshold may also be changed depending on the degree of concern indicating the degree of deviation from the ideal state, such as a rise in temperature or a change in current value.
• the air conditioning system 1 (1a) may be a system in which air conditioners 10 (10a) using a flammable refrigerant and air conditioners using a non-flammable refrigerant are mixed. In this case, the air conditioning system 1 (1a) switches to the detailed mode only for the air conditioners 10 (10a) using a flammable refrigerant.
• each component of the air conditioning system 1 (1a) described above has an internal computer system.
• a program for realizing the functions of each component of the air conditioning system 1 (1a) described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on this recording medium may be read into a computer system and executed to perform processing in each component of the air conditioning system 1 (1a) described above.
• "reading a program recorded on a recording medium into a computer system and executing it” includes installing the program into a computer system.
• computer system here includes the OS and hardware such as peripheral devices.
• a "computer system” may include multiple computer devices connected via a network, including communication lines such as the Internet, WAN, LAN, and dedicated lines.
• a "computer-readable recording medium” refers to portable media such as flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into computer systems.
• the recording medium storing the program may also be a non-transitory recording medium such as a CD-ROM.
• recording medium also includes internal or external recording media that can be accessed by a distribution server to distribute the program.
• the program may be divided into multiple parts, each downloaded at a different time and then combined into each component of the air conditioning system 1 (1a), or each divided program may be distributed by a different distribution server.
• “computer-readable recording medium” also includes a medium that stores a program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory (RAM) within a computer system that acts as a server or client when a program is transmitted over a network.
• the program may also be a medium that realizes some of the functions described above.
• the program may be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can realize the functions described above in combination with a program already stored in the computer system.

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  • 2024-03-05 JP JP2026504954A patent/JPWO2025186888A1/ja active Pending
  • 2024-03-05 WO PCT/JP2024/008179 patent/WO2025186888A1/ja active Pending

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