JP2015227734A - Air conditioning system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an air conditioning system which shortens time required for initial setting.SOLUTION: An air conditioning system 100 includes: an outdoor unit 110; a plurality of indoor units 120; and an intermediate unit 130 for communicating the outdoor unit 110 and each indoor unit 120. The intermediate unit 130 is arranged between the outdoor unit 110 and each indoor unit 120, and it includes a plurality of refrigerant systems RS, communication systems CS and switching parts 80. Each refrigerant system RS is connected to the plurality of indoor units 120. Each communication system CS is associated with the refrigerant system RS by one to one, connected to the indoor unit 120 connected to the corresponding refrigerant system RS, and a signal is transmitted between the indoor unit 120 and the intermediate unit 130. The intermediate unit 130 identifies the communication system CS and the refrigerant system RS which each indoor unit 120 is connected to by switching conduction and cut-off of each communication system CS via each switching part 80 when power is turned on.

Description

  The present invention relates to an air conditioning system.

  Conventionally, there is an air conditioning system including a plurality of refrigerant systems and a plurality of communication systems. For example, in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-146266), a refrigerant flow branching unit that branches a refrigerant flow is arranged between a plurality of outdoor units and a plurality of indoor units, and the refrigerant flow branches. An air conditioning system in which a plurality of refrigerant systems and a plurality of communication systems are configured between a unit and an indoor unit is disclosed. In such an air conditioning system, in order to control the flow of refrigerant in each refrigerant system, it is necessary to specify which refrigerant system each indoor unit is connected to at the time of initial setting. In Patent Document 1, when the refrigerant flow branching unit sets a communication address for each indoor unit, the refrigerant is supplied to one of the refrigerant systems, and then the value of the temperature sensor of the heat exchanger of each indoor unit is set. By detecting, the refrigerant system to which each indoor unit is connected is specified.

  However, in Patent Document 1, when setting the communication address of each indoor unit, it is necessary to wait for a change in the temperature sensor of the heat exchanger after supplying the refrigerant. It is assumed that it takes a long time for the initial setting such as the setting of the communication address of the indoor unit.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioning system that shortens the time required for initial setting.

  An air conditioning system according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a heat source side unit, a plurality of usage side units, and a refrigerant branching unit. The refrigerant branching unit communicates with the heat source side unit and the usage side unit. The refrigerant branching unit is disposed between the heat source side unit and the use side unit. The refrigerant branching unit includes a plurality of refrigerant systems, a plurality of communication systems, and a changeover switch. The changeover switch is disposed in each communication system and switches between conduction and interruption of each communication system. Each refrigerant system is connected to one or more usage-side units. Each communication system is associated with one of the refrigerant systems on a one-to-one basis. Each communication system is connected to a use side unit connected to a corresponding refrigerant system. Each communication system sends a control signal transmitted and received between the use side unit and the refrigerant branching unit. The refrigerant branching unit performs a refrigerant system specifying operation when the power is turned on. In the refrigerant system specifying operation, the refrigerant branching unit switches between conduction and interruption of each communication system via each changeover switch and determines the communication system to which each usage side unit is connected, so that each usage side unit has which refrigerant. Determine if it is connected to the grid.

  In the air conditioning system according to the first aspect of the present invention, each communication system is connected to a use side unit connected to the corresponding refrigerant system. In addition, the refrigerant branching unit includes a changeover switch arranged in each communication system, and when the power is turned on, the communication system connected to each use side unit is determined by switching between conduction and interruption of each communication system via each changeover switch. Thus, a refrigerant system specifying operation for specifying which refrigerant system each user side unit is connected to is performed. As a result, during construction or maintenance of an air conditioning system including a plurality of refrigerant systems and a plurality of communication systems, at the time of initial setting, each refrigerant can be supplied to each refrigerant system without determining temperature changes. The refrigerant system to which the unit is connected is specified. Therefore, the time concerning the initial setting of the air conditioning system is shortened.

  The air conditioning system which concerns on the 2nd viewpoint of this invention is an air conditioning system which concerns on a 1st viewpoint, Comprising: A refrigerant | coolant branch unit performs a refrigerant | coolant system specific operation | movement after setting a communication address with respect to each indoor unit. The refrigerant branching unit stores the communication address and the refrigerant system in association with each other after the refrigerant system specifying operation.

  In the air conditioning system according to the second aspect of the present invention, the refrigerant branching unit performs the refrigerant system specifying operation after setting the communication address for each indoor unit, and associates the communication address with the refrigerant system after the refrigerant system specifying operation. Remember. Thereby, the initial setting of the air conditioning system is facilitated, and the time required for the initial setting of the air conditioning system is further shortened.

  An air conditioning system according to a third aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning system according to the first aspect or the second aspect, and the refrigerant branching unit is configured to connect all communication systems via each changeover switch after the refrigerant system specifying operation. Conduct.

  In the air conditioning system according to the third aspect of the present invention, the refrigerant branching unit conducts all the communication systems via each changeover switch after the refrigerant system specifying operation. That is, the refrigerant branching unit switches between conduction and interruption of the communication system only at the initial setting. Thereby, after completion of the initial setting, it is possible to perform communication between the use side unit and the refrigerant branching unit without performing special processing such as switching of the communication system, and processing related to communication is simplified.

  The air conditioning system which concerns on the 4th viewpoint of this invention is an air conditioning system which concerns on either of the 1st viewpoint to the 3rd viewpoint, Comprising: Each transmission line which comprises each communication system is refrigerant | coolant piping which comprises a corresponding refrigerant system Extending along.

  In the air conditioning system according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, each transmission path constituting each communication system extends along a refrigerant pipe constituting the corresponding refrigerant system. Thus, in the refrigerant branching unit, it is possible to provide a communication system in association with a specific refrigerant system while suppressing erroneous wiring.

  An air conditioning system according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioning system according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the refrigerant branching unit transmits and receives signals to and from the heat source side unit via the second transmission path. I do. The second transmission path is a transmission path that does not belong to any communication system. The refrigerant branching unit relays signals transmitted and received in communication between the heat source side unit and each usage side unit.

  In the air conditioning system according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the refrigerant branching unit transmits and receives signals to and from the heat source side unit via the second transmission path that does not belong to any communication system, and the heat source side unit and each usage side unit It relays signals sent and received in communication between them. Thereby, it becomes possible to implement | achieve communication between a utilization side unit and a heat-source side unit by a simple structure.

  In the air conditioning system according to the first aspect of the present invention, the time required for the initial setting of the air conditioning system is shortened.

  In the air conditioning system according to the second aspect of the present invention, the time required for the initial setting of the air conditioning system is further reduced.

  In the air conditioning system according to the third aspect of the present invention, processing related to communication is simplified.

  In the air conditioning system according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in the refrigerant branching unit, it is possible to provide a communication system in association with a specific refrigerant system while suppressing erroneous wiring.

  In the air conditioning system according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, communication between the use side unit and the heat source side unit can be realized with a simple configuration.

1 is an overall configuration diagram of an air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The refrigerant circuit figure in an outdoor unit. The refrigerant circuit figure in an indoor unit and an intermediate unit. The schematic diagram showing the transmission path in an air-conditioning system. The schematic block diagram of an intermediate unit control part. The flowchart which showed the flow of the address setting process and address registration process of an intermediate unit control part. The sequence diagram which showed the operation | movement of each part at the time of an address setting process and an address registration process. The sequence diagram which showed the operation | movement of each part at the time of an address setting process and an address registration process. 10 is a flowchart showing a flow of address setting registration processing according to Modification E.

  Hereinafter, an air conditioning system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are specific examples of the present invention and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the scope of the invention.

(1) Air conditioning system 100
FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of an air conditioning system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The air conditioning system 100 is installed in a building or the like such as a building or a factory, and performs air conditioning operation, heating operation, or the like to realize air conditioning in the target space. The air conditioning system 100 is a refrigerant piping type air conditioning system, and performs a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle operation.

  The air conditioning system 100 mainly includes one outdoor unit 110 as a heat source side unit, a plurality of indoor units 120 as usage side units, and a single intermediate unit 130 arranged between the outdoor unit 110 and the usage units. And. The outdoor unit 110 and the intermediate unit 130 are connected by a liquid communication pipe 11, a gas communication pipe 12 and a high / low pressure gas communication pipe 13. Each indoor unit 120 and the intermediate unit 130 are connected by a liquid pipe LP and a gas pipe GP.

  In the air conditioning system 100, a plurality of refrigerant systems RS (specifically, the first refrigerant system RS1, the second refrigerant system RS2, the third refrigerant system RS3, and the fourth refrigerant system RS4) and a plurality of communication systems CS (specifically 1st communication system CS1, 2nd communication system CS2, 3rd communication system CS3, and 4th communication system CS4) are comprised. In the air conditioning system 100, the cooling operation and the heating operation can be freely selected for each refrigerant system RS. Each communication system CS is associated with one of the refrigerant systems RS on a one-to-one basis.

  Details of the air conditioning system 100 will be described below.

(1-1) Outdoor unit 110
FIG. 2 is a refrigerant circuit diagram in the outdoor unit 110. The outdoor unit 110 is installed, for example, outdoors on a rooftop of a building, a veranda, or in the basement. Various devices are arranged in the outdoor unit 110, and these devices are connected via a refrigerant pipe.

  Specifically, in the outdoor unit 110, the gas-side first closing valve 21, the gas-side second closing valve 22, the liquid-side closing valve 23, the accumulator 24, the compressor 25, the first flow path switching valve 26, the first A two-channel switching valve 27, a third channel switching valve 28, an outdoor heat exchanger 30, a first outdoor expansion valve 34, and a second outdoor expansion valve 35 are disposed and connected by a refrigerant pipe. In addition to these devices, an outdoor fan 33, an outdoor unit controller 111, and the like are disposed in the outdoor unit 110.

  The gas-side first closing valve 21, the gas-side second closing valve 22, and the liquid-side closing valve 23 are manual valves that are opened and closed when the refrigerant is charged or pumped down. The gas-side first closing valve 21 has one end connected to the gas communication pipe 12 and the other end connected to a refrigerant pipe extending to the accumulator 24. The gas side second closing valve 22 has one end connected to the high / low pressure gas communication pipe 13 and the other end connected to a refrigerant pipe extending to the second flow path switching valve 27. One end of the liquid side closing valve 23 is connected to the liquid communication pipe 11, and the other end is connected to a refrigerant pipe extending to the first outdoor expansion valve 34 or the second outdoor expansion valve 35.

  The accumulator 24 is a container for temporarily storing the low-pressure refrigerant sucked into the compressor 25 and separating the gas and liquid. The accumulator 24 is disposed between the gas side first closing valve 21 and the compressor 25.

  The compressor 25 has a hermetic structure with a built-in compressor motor, and is a positive displacement compressor such as a scroll method or a rotary method, for example. The compressor 25 compresses the sucked low-pressure refrigerant and then discharges it. A discharge pipe 252 is connected to the discharge port of the compressor 25.

  The first flow path switching valve 26, the second flow path switching valve 27, and the third flow path switching valve 28 (hereinafter collectively referred to as the flow path switching valve SV) are four-way switching valves, depending on the situation. Thus, the flow of the refrigerant is switched (see the solid and broken lines in FIG. 2). A discharge pipe 252 or a branch pipe extending from the discharge pipe 252 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the flow path switching valve SV. In addition, the flow path switching valve SV is configured to block the flow of the refrigerant in one refrigerant flow path during operation, and effectively functions as a three-way valve.

  The outdoor heat exchanger 30 includes a first heat exchange unit 31 and a second heat exchange unit 32. As for the 1st heat exchange part 31, the refrigerant | coolant piping connected to the 3rd flow-path switching valve 28 is connected to one end, and the refrigerant | coolant piping extended to the 1st outdoor expansion valve 34 is connected to the other end. As for the 2nd heat exchange part 32, the refrigerant | coolant piping connected to the 1st flow-path switching valve 26 is connected to one end, and the refrigerant | coolant piping extended to the 2nd outdoor expansion valve 35 is connected to the other end. The refrigerant passing through the first heat exchange unit 31 and the second heat exchange unit 32 exchanges heat with the airflow generated by the outdoor fan 33.

  The outdoor fan 33 is a propeller fan, for example. When the outdoor fan 33 is driven, an air flow that flows into the outdoor unit 110, passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 30, and flows out of the outdoor unit 110 is generated.

  The first outdoor expansion valve 34 and the second outdoor expansion valve 35 are electrically operated valves whose opening degree can be adjusted, for example. As for the 1st outdoor expansion valve 34, the refrigerant | coolant piping extended from the 1st heat exchange part 31 is connected to one end, and the refrigerant | coolant piping extended to the liquid side closing valve 23 is connected to the other end. As for the 2nd outdoor expansion valve 35, the refrigerant | coolant piping extended from the 2nd heat exchange part 32 is connected to one end, and the refrigerant | coolant piping extended to the liquid side closing valve 23 is connected to the other end. The opening degree of the first outdoor expansion valve 34 and the second outdoor expansion valve 35 is adjusted according to the situation, and the refrigerant passing through the inside is decompressed according to the opening degree.

  The outdoor unit control unit 111 includes a microcomputer and a communication circuit configured with a CPU, a memory, and the like. The outdoor unit control unit 111 holds the communication address of itself (outdoor unit control unit 111) in the memory. The outdoor unit control unit 111 is connected to an intermediate unit control unit 131 (described later) via a communication cable 112 (corresponding to “second transmission path” recited in the claims). The outdoor unit control unit 111 transmits and receives signals to and from the intermediate unit control unit 131 based on a predetermined communication protocol using an independent communication system configured by the communication cable 112. The outdoor unit control unit 111 controls the opening / closing and rotation speed of the compressor 25 and the outdoor fan 33 according to the received signal and situation, and also controls the opening / closing and opening degree adjustment of various valves.

  Further, the outdoor unit control unit 111 is newly turned on after power-off (hereinafter referred to as power-on) when the air conditioning system 100 is installed, maintained, or the indoor unit 120 is added. The communication address is set for the intermediate unit 130. Specifically, for setting the communication address, an address setting signal including communication address data is transmitted from the outdoor unit control unit 111 to the intermediate unit 130 (intermediate unit control unit 131) via the communication cable 112. Is done by. The outdoor unit control unit 111 stores the communication address of each indoor unit 120 (indoor unit control unit 121) transmitted from the intermediate unit 130 (intermediate unit control unit 131) at the time of initial setting in a predetermined storage area.

(1-2) Indoor unit 120
FIG. 3 is a refrigerant circuit diagram in the indoor unit 120 and the intermediate unit 130. The indoor unit 120 is installed on, for example, a ceiling or a side wall. The air conditioning system 100 of this embodiment includes a plurality of indoor units 120, and specifically, eight indoor units 120 (120a, 120b, 120c, 120d, 120e, 120f, 120g, and 120h) are disposed. ing. Each indoor unit 120 is connected to one of the refrigerant systems RS and one of the communication systems CS. Each indoor unit 120 is connected to a liquid pipe LP and a gas pipe GP extending from the intermediate unit 130 on the ceiling or the like. The indoor unit 120 is connected to the outdoor unit 110 or the intermediate unit 130 via a power cable (not shown), and is supplied with power.

  Specifically, the indoor units 120a and 120b belong to the first refrigerant system RS1 and the first communication system CS1. The indoor units 120a and 120b are connected to a first BS unit 70a (described later) in the intermediate unit 130 via a liquid pipe LP1 and a gas pipe GP1.

  The indoor units 120c and 120d belong to the second refrigerant system RS2 and the second communication system CS2. The indoor units 120c and 120d are connected to a second BS unit 70b (described later) in the intermediate unit 130 via a liquid pipe LP2 and a gas pipe GP2.

  The indoor units 120e and 120f belong to the third refrigerant system RS3 and the third communication system CS3. The indoor units 120e and 120f are connected to a third BS unit 70c (described later) in the intermediate unit 130 via the liquid pipe LP3 and the gas pipe GP3 (in FIG. 3, the internal configuration of the indoor units 120e and 120f is not shown). .

  The indoor units 120g and 120h belong to the fourth refrigerant system RS4 and the fourth communication system CS4. The indoor units 120g and 120h are connected to a fourth BS unit 70d (described later) in the intermediate unit 130 via a liquid pipe LP4 and a gas pipe GP4.

  In each indoor unit 120, an indoor expansion valve 51 and an indoor heat exchanger 52 are disposed, and these are connected by a refrigerant pipe. In each indoor unit 120, an indoor fan 53 and an indoor unit control unit 121 are disposed.

  The indoor expansion valve 51 is an electric valve capable of adjusting the opening degree. The indoor expansion valve 51 has one end connected to the liquid pipe LP and the other end connected to a refrigerant pipe extending to the indoor heat exchanger 52. The indoor expansion valve 51 depressurizes the passing refrigerant in accordance with the opening.

  The indoor heat exchanger 52 has one end connected to a refrigerant pipe extending from the indoor expansion valve 51 and the other end connected to a gas pipe GP. The refrigerant flowing into the indoor heat exchanger 52 exchanges heat with the air flow generated by the indoor fan 53 when passing through the heat transfer tube.

  The indoor fan 53 is, for example, a cross flow fan or a propeller fan. When the indoor fan 53 is driven, an air flow that flows from the indoor space into the indoor unit 120 and passes through the indoor heat exchanger 52 and then flows into the indoor space is generated.

  The indoor unit control unit 121 includes a microcomputer and a communication circuit configured with a CPU, a memory, and the like. The indoor unit control unit 121 receives a user operation start instruction or a predetermined setting instruction via a remote controller (not shown). The indoor unit control unit 121 is connected to an intermediate unit control unit 131 (described later) via a predetermined communication cable (151, 152, 153, 154). The indoor unit control unit 121 transmits / receives signals to / from the intermediate unit control unit 131 based on a predetermined communication protocol using a communication system (CS1, CS2, CS3, CS4) configured by each communication cable.

  The indoor unit control unit 121 controls the start and stop of the indoor fan 53 and the number of rotations according to the signal and situation received from the intermediate unit control unit 131, and also controls the opening and closing and the opening degree adjustment of the indoor expansion valve 51. When a predetermined instruction is input from the user via the remote controller, the indoor unit control unit 121 sends the instruction to the intermediate unit control unit 131 to drive the indoor fan 53 and the indoor expansion valve 51 according to the situation.

  Moreover, the indoor unit control part 121 will determine whether the own communication address is set, if the address setting alerting | reporting signal (after-mentioned) transmitted from the intermediate | middle unit control part 131 is received at the time of initial setting etc. FIG. As a result of the determination, if the own communication address is not set, the indoor unit control unit 121 transmits an address setting request signal to the intermediate unit control unit 131 as a reply to the address setting notification signal.

  In addition, when the indoor unit control unit 121 receives an address setting signal (described later) transmitted from the intermediate unit control unit 131, the indoor unit control unit 121 decodes communication address data included in the address setting signal and stores the predetermined address as its own communication address. Store in the area.

  Further, the indoor unit control unit 121 stores the communication address of the outdoor unit 110 (outdoor unit control unit 111) transmitted from the intermediate unit 130 (intermediate unit control unit 131) at the time of initial setting in a predetermined storage area.

(1-3) Intermediate unit 130
The intermediate unit 130 (corresponding to “refrigerant branching unit” described in the claims) plays a role of configuring a plurality of refrigerant systems RS and a plurality of communication systems CS1 in the air conditioning system 100. Specifically, the intermediate unit 130 is disposed between the outdoor unit 110 and each indoor unit 120 to branch the refrigerant flow path and switch the refrigerant flow. In other words, it can be said that the intermediate unit 130 includes a plurality of refrigerant systems RS and a plurality of communication systems CS therein. The intermediate unit 130 is connected to the outdoor unit 110 via a power cable (not shown) and is supplied with power.

  The intermediate unit 130 is configured by a substantially rectangular parallelepiped casing (not shown). The intermediate unit 130 includes a plurality of headers (specifically, a first header 55, a second header 56, a third header 57, and a fourth header 58) and a plurality of BS units 70 (specifically, a first BS unit 70a, Second BS unit 70b, third BS unit 70c and fourth BS unit 70d) and intermediate unit controller 131, and a plurality of switching units 80 (specifically, first switching unit 81, second switching unit 82, third switching unit 83, and 4th switching part 84). Note that the intermediate unit 130 can be conceptually a unit in which a plurality of BS units 70 are collected and configured integrally.

(1-3-1) First header 55, second header 56, third header 57, fourth header 58
The first header 55 is connected to the high / low pressure gas communication pipe 13. The second header 56 is connected to the gas communication pipe 12. The third header 57 is connected to the liquid communication pipe 11.

  The first header 55, the second header 56, and the third header 57 are exposed to the outside through a through hole formed in the casing (not shown). The fourth header 58 is connected to a pipe P7 (described later) in each BS unit 70. The second header 56 and the fourth header 58 are connected by two connecting pipes 581 and communicated with each other.

(1-3-2) BS unit 70
The BS unit 70 is configured by combining a plurality of refrigerant pipes, electric valves, and the like. Each BS unit 70 constitutes one of the refrigerant systems RS. Specifically, the first BS unit 70a constitutes the first refrigerant system RS1 together with the liquid pipe LP1 and the gas pipe GP1. The second BS unit 70b constitutes the second refrigerant system RS2 together with the liquid pipe LP2 and the gas pipe GP2. The third BS unit 70c constitutes the third refrigerant system RS3 together with the liquid pipe LP3 and the gas pipe GP3 (the internal configuration of the third BS unit 70c is not shown in FIG. 3). The fourth BS unit 70d constitutes a fourth refrigerant system RS4 together with the liquid pipe LP4 and the gas pipe GP4.

  Each BS unit 70 mainly includes a plurality of refrigerant pipes (pipes P1 to P9), a plurality of electric valves (first electric valve EV1, second electric valve EV2, and third electric valve EV3), and a supercooling heat exchange unit. 59. Each BS unit 70 is connected to one end of a liquid pipe LP and a gas pipe GP, respectively.

  One end of the pipe P <b> 1 is connected to the third header 57, and the other end is connected to the first flow path 591 of the supercooling heat exchange unit 59. One end of the pipe P2 is connected to the first flow path 591 of the supercooling heat exchange unit 59, and the other end is connected to the liquid pipe LP. One end of the pipe P3 is connected to the gas pipe GP, and the other end is connected to the first electric valve Ev1. One end of the pipe P <b> 4 is connected to the first electric valve Ev <b> 1 and the other end is connected to the second header 56. One end of the pipe P5 is connected to the pipe P3, and the other end is connected to the second electric valve Ev2. One end of the pipe P <b> 6 is connected to the second electric valve Ev <b> 2 and the other end is connected to the first header 55. One end of the pipe P <b> 7 is connected to the fourth header 58, and the other end is connected to the second flow path 592 of the supercooling heat exchange unit 59. One end of the pipe P8 is connected to the second flow path 592 of the supercooling heat exchanging section 59, and the other end is connected to the third electric valve Ev3. One end of the pipe P9 is connected to the third electric valve Ev3, and the other end is connected to the pipe P1.

  The first motor-operated valve Ev1, the second motor-operated valve Ev2, and the third motor-operated valve EV3 are, for example, motor-operated valves whose opening degree can be adjusted, and the flow of the refrigerant by passing or blocking the refrigerant according to the opening degree. Switch.

  The supercooling heat exchange unit 59 is, for example, a double tube heat exchanger. The supercooling heat exchanging unit 59 has a first flow path 591 and a second flow path 592 formed therein, and the refrigerant flowing through the first flow path 591 and the refrigerant flowing through the second flow path 592 exchange heat. Structure.

(1-3-3) Intermediate unit controller 131
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing each transmission path in the air conditioning system 100. The intermediate unit control unit 131 includes a microcomputer including a CPU and a memory, and various electric components, and is mounted on a substrate.

  The intermediate unit controller 131 is connected to a communication cable 112 that extends between the outdoor unit 110 and the intermediate unit 130. The intermediate unit controller 131 is connected to a communication cable 150 extending between each indoor unit 120 and the intermediate unit 130. The communication cable 150 branches into the communication cable 151, the communication cable 152, the communication cable 153, and the communication cable 154 in the intermediate unit 130.

  The communication cable 151 constitutes the first communication system CS1, and extends along the liquid pipe LP1 or the gas pipe GP1 constituting the first refrigerant system RS1. Thereby, 1st refrigerant | coolant system | strain RS1 and 1st communication system | strain CS1 respond | correspond one-to-one.

  The communication cable 152 constitutes the second communication system CS2, and extends along the liquid pipe LP2 or the gas pipe GP2 constituting the second refrigerant system RS2. As a result, the second refrigerant system RS2 and the second communication system CS2 correspond one-to-one.

  The communication cable 153 constitutes the third communication system CS3 and extends along the liquid pipe LP3 or the gas pipe GP3 constituting the third refrigerant system RS3. As a result, the third refrigerant system RS3 and the third communication system CS3 correspond one-to-one.

  The communication cable 154 constitutes the fourth communication system CS4 and extends along the liquid pipe LP4 or the gas pipe GP4 constituting the fourth refrigerant system RS4. Thereby, 4th refrigerant | coolant system | strain RS4 and 4th communication system | strain CS4 respond | correspond one-to-one.

  A plurality of communication systems CS are configured in the intermediate unit 130 by connecting the communication cable 150 of the above aspect and the intermediate unit control unit 131.

  The intermediate unit control unit 131 transmits and receives signals to and from the outdoor unit control unit 111 and each indoor unit control unit 121 based on a predetermined protocol using each communication system CS. The intermediate unit controller 131 controls the opening and closing of the first electric valve Ev1, the second electric valve Ev2, and the third electric valve Ev3 according to the received signal and situation.

  Further, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transfers a signal transmitted / received between the outdoor unit control unit 111 and each indoor unit control unit 121 as it is, or converts it into a predetermined data format and sends it out. That is, the intermediate unit controller 131 plays a role of relaying signals transmitted and received between the outdoor unit 110 (outdoor unit controller 111) and each indoor unit 120 (indoor unit controller 121).

  Details of the intermediate unit control unit 131 will be described later in “(3) Details of the intermediate unit control unit 131”.

(1-3-4) Switching unit 80
Switching unit 80 (first switching unit 81, second switching unit 82, third switching unit 83, and fourth switching unit 84) is an electromagnetic relay. Each switching unit 80 is arranged in any one of the communication cables 151, 152, 153, or 154, and switches between conduction and interruption of each communication system CS. More specifically, each switching unit 80 is electrically connected to the intermediate unit control unit 131, and can be switched between an on state and an off state by being supplied with a predetermined drive voltage from the intermediate unit control unit 131. . In the present embodiment, the switching unit 80 is in an on state (a state in which the communication system CS is conducted) when the drive voltage is not supplied, and is in an off state (the communication system CS is shut off when the drive voltage is supplied). State).

  Specifically, the 1st switching part 81 is arrange | positioned on the communication cable 151, and switches conduction | electrical_connection and interruption | blocking of 1st communication system CS1. The 2nd switching part 82 is arrange | positioned on the communication cable 152, and switches conduction | electrical_connection and interruption | blocking of 2nd communication system CS2. The 3rd switching part 83 is arrange | positioned on the communication cable 153, and switches conduction | electrical_connection and interruption | blocking of 3rd communication system CS3. The 4th switching part 84 is arrange | positioned on the communication cable 154, and switches conduction | electrical_connection and interruption | blocking of 4th communication system | strain CS4.

(1-4) Refrigerant system RS
As described above, in the air conditioning system 100, the BS unit 70 is disposed in the intermediate unit 130, so that a plurality of refrigerant systems RS (first refrigerant system RS1, second refrigerant system RS2, third refrigerant system RS3, A fourth refrigerant system RS4) is configured. Each refrigerant system RS is connected to a plurality of indoor units 120 and sends refrigerant between each indoor unit 120 and the intermediate unit 130 to be connected.

  The first refrigerant system RS1 extends between the intermediate unit 130 and the indoor units 120a and 120b. More specifically, the first refrigerant system RS1 is configured by connecting the first BS unit 70a and the indoor units 120a and 120b via a liquid pipe LP1 and a gas pipe GP1. In other words, it can be said that the indoor units 120a and 120b are connected to the liquid pipe LP1 and the gas pipe GP1 (corresponding to “refrigerant piping” described in the claims) constituting the first refrigerant system RS1.

  The second refrigerant system RS2 extends between the intermediate unit 130 and the indoor units 120c and 120d. More specifically, the second refrigerant system RS2 is configured by connecting the second BS unit 70b and the indoor units 120c and 120d via a liquid pipe LP2 and a gas pipe GP2. In other words, it can be said that the indoor units 120c and 120d are connected to the liquid pipe LP2 and the gas pipe GP2 (corresponding to “refrigerant piping” described in the claims) constituting the second refrigerant system RS2.

  The third refrigerant system RS3 extends between the intermediate unit 130 and the indoor units 120e and 120f. More specifically, the third refrigerant system RS3 is configured by connecting the third BS unit 70c and the indoor units 120e and 120f with a liquid pipe LP3 and a gas pipe GP3. In other words, it can be said that the indoor units 120e and 120f are connected to the liquid pipe LP3 and the gas pipe GP3 (corresponding to “refrigerant piping” described in the claims) constituting the third refrigerant system RS3.

  The fourth refrigerant system RS4 extends between the intermediate unit 130 and the indoor units 120g and 120h. More specifically, the fourth refrigerant system RS4 is configured by connecting the fourth BS unit 70d and the indoor units 120g and 120h by a liquid pipe LP4 and a gas pipe GP4. In other words, it can be said that the indoor units 120g and 120h are connected to the liquid pipe LP4 and the gas pipe GP4 (corresponding to “refrigerant pipe” in the claims) constituting the fourth refrigerant system RS4.

(1-5) Communication system CS
As described above, in the air conditioning system 100, a plurality of communication systems CS (first communication system CS1, second communication system CS2, third communication system CS3, and fourth communication system CS4) are configured in the intermediate unit 130. . Each communication system CS transmits signals transmitted and received between each indoor unit control unit 121 and the intermediate unit control unit 131 to be connected.

  The first communication system CS1 extends between the intermediate unit 130 and the indoor units 120a and 120b. More specifically, the first communication system CS1 is configured by connecting an intermediate unit control unit 131 and indoor unit control units 121a and 121b via a communication cable 151 (150). In other words, it can be said that the indoor unit controllers 121a and 121b are connected to the communication cable 151 (corresponding to the “transmission path” described in the claims) constituting the first communication system CS1. The first communication system CS1 is associated with the first refrigerant system RS1 on a one-to-one basis. That is, the indoor unit 120 to which the first communication system CS1 and the first refrigerant system RS1 are connected is the same. As a result, the refrigerant flow in the first refrigerant system RS1 is controlled using the first communication system CS1.

  The second communication system CS2 extends between the intermediate unit 130 and the indoor units 120c and 120d. More specifically, the second communication system CS2 is configured by connecting the intermediate unit control unit 131 and the indoor unit control units 121c and 121d via the communication cable 152 (150). In other words, it can be said that the indoor unit controllers 121c and 121d are connected to the communication cable 152 (corresponding to the “transmission path” described in the claims) constituting the second communication system CS2. The second communication system CS2 is associated with the second refrigerant system RS2 on a one-to-one basis. That is, the indoor unit 120 connected to the second communication system CS2 and the second refrigerant system RS2 is the same. As a result, the refrigerant flow in the second refrigerant system RS2 is controlled using the second communication system CS2.

  The third communication system CS3 extends between the intermediate unit 130 and the indoor units 120e and 120f. More specifically, the third communication system CS3 is configured by connecting an intermediate unit control unit 131 and indoor unit control units 121e and 121f via a communication cable 153 (150). In other words, it can be said that the indoor unit controllers 121e and 121f are connected to the communication cable 153 (corresponding to the “transmission path” described in the claims) constituting the third communication system CS3. The third communication system CS3 is associated with the third refrigerant system RS3 on a one-to-one basis. That is, the indoor unit 120 connected to the third communication system CS3 and the third refrigerant system RS3 is the same. As a result, the refrigerant flow in the third refrigerant system RS3 is controlled using the third communication system CS3.

  The fourth communication system CS4 extends between the intermediate unit 130 and the indoor units 120g and 120h. More specifically, the third communication system CS3 is configured by connecting the intermediate unit control unit 131 and the indoor unit control units 121g and 121h via the communication cable 154 (150). In other words, it can be said that the indoor unit controllers 121g and 121h are connected to the communication cable 154 (corresponding to the “transmission path” described in the claims) constituting the fourth communication system CS4. The fourth communication system CS4 is associated with the fourth refrigerant system RS4 on a one-to-one basis. That is, the indoor unit 120 to which the fourth communication system CS4 and the fourth refrigerant system RS4 are connected is the same. As a result, the flow of the refrigerant in the fourth refrigerant system RS4 is controlled using the fourth communication system CS4.

(2) Refrigerant Flow in Air Conditioning System 100 Hereinafter, regarding the refrigerant flow during operation of the air conditioning system 100, the indoor unit 120a connected to the first refrigerant system RS1 and the 120c connected to the second refrigerant system RS2 are operating. The case will be described for each situation. In order to simplify the description, it is assumed that the other indoor units 120 (120b and 120d to 120h) are in a stopped state.

(2-1) When both indoor units 120a and 120c perform cooling operation In such a case, in the first BS unit 70a and the second BS unit 70b, the first electric valve Ev1 is set to the maximum opening, and the second electric valve Ev2 is the minimum opening. Moreover, each indoor expansion valve 51 of the indoor units 120a and 120b is opened at an appropriate opening, and the first outdoor expansion valve 34 and the second outdoor expansion valve 35 are set to the maximum opening.

  When the compressor 25 is driven in this state, the high-pressure gas refrigerant compressed by the compressor 25 passes through the discharge pipe 252, the first flow path switching valve 26, the third flow path switching valve 28, etc., and the outdoor heat exchanger. It flows into 30 and condenses. The refrigerant condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger 30 passes through the liquid side shut-off valve 23 and the like and flows into the liquid communication pipe 11. The refrigerant that has flowed into the liquid communication pipe 11 eventually reaches the third header 57 of the intermediate unit 130 and flows into the pipe P1 of the first BS unit 70a and the second BS unit 70b.

  The refrigerant that has flowed into the pipe P1 reaches the indoor units 120a and 120c through the pipe P2, the liquid pipe LP, and the like, flows into the indoor expansion valve 51, and is depressurized. The decompressed refrigerant flows into the indoor heat exchanger 52 and evaporates. The evaporated refrigerant flows into the pipe P3 of the first BS unit 70a and the second BS unit 70b through the gas pipe GP.

  The refrigerant flowing into the pipe P3 flows through the pipe P4 and reaches the second header 56. The refrigerant that has reached the second header 56 flows into the outdoor unit 110 through the gas communication pipe 12 and is sucked into the compressor 25.

(2-2) When both indoor units 120a and 120c perform heating operation In such a case, in the first BS unit 70a and the second BS unit 70b, the first electric valve Ev1 is set to the minimum opening, and the second electric valve Ev2 is the maximum opening. Moreover, the indoor expansion valve 51 of the indoor units 120a and 120c is set to the maximum opening, and the first outdoor expansion valve 34 and the second outdoor expansion valve 35 are opened with appropriate opening.

  When the compressor 25 is driven in this state, the high-pressure gas refrigerant compressed by the compressor 25 flows into the high-low pressure gas communication pipe 13 through the discharge pipe 252 and the second flow path switching valve 27 and the like. The refrigerant flowing into the high / low pressure gas communication pipe 13 eventually reaches the first header 55 of the intermediate unit 130. The refrigerant that has reached the first header 55 flows into the piping P6 of the first BS unit 70a and the second BS unit 70b, flows through the piping P5, the piping P3, etc., and flows into the gas pipe GP.

  The refrigerant flowing into the gas pipe GP reaches the indoor units 120a and 120c, flows into the indoor heat exchangers 52, and condenses. The condensed refrigerant flows into the pipe P2 of the first BS unit 70a or the second BS unit 70b through the liquid pipe LP. The refrigerant flowing into the pipe P2 reaches the third header 57 through the pipe P1 and the like. The refrigerant that has reached the third header 57 flows into the outdoor unit 110 through the liquid communication pipe 11.

  The refrigerant flowing into the outdoor unit 110 is depressurized at the first outdoor expansion valve 34 or the second outdoor expansion valve 35. The decompressed refrigerant flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 30 and evaporates when passing through the outdoor heat exchanger 30. The evaporated refrigerant is sucked into the compressor 25 through the first flow path switching valve 26, the third flow path switching valve 28, or the like.

(2-3) When one of the indoor units 120a and 120c performs the cooling operation and the other performs the heating operation. In such a case, the room performing the cooling operation of the first BS unit 70a and the second BS unit 70b. In the BS unit 70 (hereinafter referred to as “one BS unit 70”) corresponding to the unit 120 (hereinafter referred to as “one indoor unit 120”), the first electric valve Ev1 is set to the maximum opening. The second motor operated valve Ev2 is set to the minimum opening, and the third motor operated valve Ev3 is opened at an appropriate opening. Moreover, the indoor expansion valve 51 of one indoor unit 120 is opened at an appropriate opening degree. On the other hand, among the first BS unit 70a and the third BS unit 70c, the BS unit 70 (hereinafter referred to as the “other BS”) corresponding to the indoor unit 120 performing the heating operation (hereinafter referred to as “the other indoor unit 120”). In the “unit 70”), the first motor-operated valve Ev1 is fully closed and the second motor-operated valve Ev2 is at the maximum opening. Further, the indoor expansion valve 51 of the other indoor unit 120 is set to the maximum opening. Moreover, the 1st outdoor expansion valve 34 and the 2nd outdoor expansion valve 35 are opened with a suitable opening degree so that a supercooling degree may become a target value.

  When the compressor 25 is driven in this state, the high-pressure gas refrigerant compressed by the compressor 25 flows into the high-low pressure gas communication pipe 13 through the discharge pipe 252 and the second flow path switching valve 27 and the like. The refrigerant flowing into the high / low pressure gas communication pipe 13 eventually reaches the first header 55 of the intermediate unit 130. The refrigerant that has reached the first header 55 flows through the pipe P6, the pipe P5, the pipe P3, and the like in the other BS unit 70, and flows into the gas pipe GP.

  The refrigerant that has flowed into the gas pipe GP reaches the other indoor unit 120, flows into the indoor heat exchanger 52, and is condensed. The condensed refrigerant flows into the pipe P2 in the other BS unit 70 through the liquid pipe LP. The refrigerant flowing into the pipe P2 reaches the third header 57 through the pipe P1 and the like.

  The refrigerant that has reached the third header 57 flows into the pipe P <b> 1 in one BS unit 70. The refrigerant that has flowed into the pipe P1 passes through the first flow path 591 of the supercooling heat exchange unit 59, reaches the one indoor unit 120 through the pipe P2 and the liquid pipe LP.

  The refrigerant that has reached one indoor unit 120 flows into the indoor expansion valve 51 and is depressurized. The decompressed refrigerant flows into the indoor heat exchanger 52 and evaporates. The evaporated refrigerant flows into the pipe P3 of one BS unit 70 through the gas pipe GP. The refrigerant flowing into the pipe P3 flows through the pipe P4 and reaches the second header 56.

  Part of the refrigerant that has reached the second header 56 flows into the outdoor unit 110 through the gas communication pipe 12 and is sucked into the compressor 25. On the other hand, the other refrigerant that has reached the second header 56 flows into the fourth header 58 via the connection pipe 581.

  The refrigerant flowing into the fourth header 58 flows into the pipe P7 of one BS unit 70. The refrigerant that has flowed into the pipe P7 flows into the second flow path 592 of the supercooling heat exchange unit 59. When the refrigerant that has flowed into the second flow path 592 passes through the second flow path 592, the refrigerant exchanges heat with the refrigerant that passes through the first flow path 591, and cools the refrigerant that passes through the first flow path 591. As a result, the refrigerant flowing through the first flow path 591 is in a supercooled state. The refrigerant that has passed through the second flow path 592 joins the refrigerant flowing through the pipe P1 through the pipe P8 and the pipe P9.

(3) Details of Intermediate Unit Control Unit 131 Details of the intermediate unit control unit 131 will be described below. FIG. 5 is a schematic configuration diagram of the intermediate unit controller 131.

  The intermediate unit control unit 131 has an initial setting mode and a normal mode as control modes. The initial setting mode is a control mode that transitions when the power is turned on. The normal mode is a control mode for controlling normal processing, and specifically, is a control mode in which transition is made after address registration processing (described later) is completed in the initial setting mode.

  The intermediate unit control unit 131 is connected to each motor operated valve (EV1, EV2, EV3) of each BS unit 70 (70a, 70b, 70c, 70d) and each switching unit 80 (first switching unit 81, first) via wiring. 2 switching unit 82, third switching unit 83, and fourth switching unit 84). The intermediate unit control unit 131 mainly includes a storage unit 91, a first communication unit 92, a second communication unit 93, a first communication control unit 94, a second communication control unit 95, and a BS unit control unit 96. And an initial setting unit 97.

(3-1) Storage unit 91
The storage unit 91 includes a memory such as a ROM or a RAM, and has a volatile storage area and a nonvolatile storage area. The storage unit 91 holds a control program applied in each unit in the intermediate unit control unit 131. In the control program, processing of each unit in the intermediate unit control unit 131 is programmed. Further, the storage unit 91 stores the communication address of itself (intermediate unit 130) set by the outdoor unit control unit 111 in the initial setting mode.

  Further, in the storage unit 91, in the initial setting mode, the communication address of each indoor unit 120, the system specifying information for specifying which communication system CS (refrigerant system RS) each indoor unit 120 is connected to, and Is stored. The system identification information is information that identifies one of the communication systems CS (refrigerant system RS). That is, the storage unit 91 stores information that associates each communication address with the communication system CS (refrigerant system RS). The system identification information is added to the communication address in an address registration process (described later) after the address setting process (described later).

  The storage unit 91 also functions as a so-called working memory, and signals output from the respective units are stored in predetermined areas of the storage unit 91.

(3-2) First communication unit 92
The first communication unit 92 is a communication circuit unit connected to the communication cable 112. The first communication unit 92 includes a reception circuit (not shown) that receives a signal from the communication cable 112 and a transmission circuit (not shown) that transmits a signal to the communication cable 112. In the first communication unit 92, the receiving circuit is connected to the first communication control unit 94 and the initial setting unit 97, and the received signal is output to the first communication control unit 94 and the initial setting unit 97. Has been. The transmission circuit is connected to the first communication control unit 94 and the initial setting unit 97, and is configured to transmit signals output from the first communication control unit 94 and the initial setting unit 97 to the communication cable 112. Yes.

(3-3) Second communication unit 93
The second communication unit 93 is a communication circuit unit connected to the communication cable 150. The second communication unit 93 includes a reception circuit (not shown) that receives a signal from the communication cable 150 and a transmission circuit (not shown) that transmits a signal to the communication cable 150. In the first communication unit 92, the receiving circuit is connected to the second communication control unit 95 and the initial setting unit 97, and the received signal is output to the second communication control unit 95 and the initial setting unit 97. Has been. The transmission circuit is connected to the second communication control unit 95 and the initial setting unit 97, and is configured to transmit signals output from the second communication control unit 95 and the initial setting unit 97 to the communication cable 150. Yes.

(3-4) First communication control unit 94
The first communication control unit 94 comprehensively controls communication with the outdoor unit control unit 111 in the normal mode. Specifically, when the first communication control unit 94 receives a signal from the outdoor unit control unit 111 in the normal mode, the first communication control unit 94 confirms the destination communication address of the signal, and based on the destination communication address, the first communication control unit 94 stores a predetermined signal in the storage unit 91. Store in the storage area. Further, in the normal mode, the first communication control unit 94 acquires a signal addressed to the outdoor unit control unit 111 in the storage unit 91, acquires the signal, converts the data as necessary, and converts the outdoor unit control unit 111. Send to. Note that the first communication control unit 94 does not particularly perform processing in the initial setting mode, and starts processing after information for changing the control mode from the initial setting mode to the normal mode is stored in the storage unit 91.

(3-5) Second communication control unit 95
The second communication control unit 95 comprehensively controls communication with each indoor unit control unit 121 in the normal mode. Specifically, when the second communication control unit 95 receives a signal from any of the indoor unit control units 121 in the normal mode, the second communication control unit 95 confirms the destination communication address of the signal and stores the signal based on the destination communication address. Stored in a predetermined storage area. Further, in the normal mode, the second communication control unit 95 acquires a signal addressed to any one of the indoor unit control units 121 in the storage unit 91, acquires the signal, converts the data as necessary, and converts the destination address. It transmits to the indoor unit controller 121. Note that the second communication control unit 95 does not particularly perform processing in the initial setting mode, and starts processing after information for changing the control mode from the initial setting mode to the normal mode is stored in the storage unit 91.

(3-6) BS unit controller 96
The BS unit control unit 96 acquires a predetermined signal stored in the storage unit 91 and controls the operation of each motor operated valve (EV1, Ev2, EV3) of each BS unit 70 according to the situation.

  The BS unit controller 96 includes a first BS unit controller, a second BS unit controller, a third BS unit controller, and a fourth BS unit controller (not shown). Specifically, the first BS unit controller controls the operation of the motor operated valve in the first BS unit 70a. The second BS unit controller controls the operation of the motor operated valve in the second BS unit 70b. The third BS unit controller controls the operation of the motor operated valve in the third BS unit 70c. The fourth BS unit control unit controls the operation of the motor operated valve in the fourth BS unit 70d.

(3-7) Initial setting unit 97
The initial setting unit 97 performs address acquisition processing, address setting processing, and address registration processing in the initial setting mode. Note that the initial setting unit 97 has a timer function and can measure time.

  When the initial setting unit 97 receives the address setting signal transmitted from the outdoor unit control unit 111 when the power is turned on, the initial setting unit 97 performs an address acquisition process. Specifically, the initial setting unit 97 decodes the communication address data included in the address setting signal and stores it in the storage unit 91 as the communication address of itself (intermediate unit control unit 131). The initial setting unit 97 performs an address setting process after the address acquisition process is completed.

  The initial setting unit 97 broadcasts an address setting notification signal to the communication cable 150 via the second communication unit 93 in the address setting process. Thereafter, when one or more address setting request signals are received via the second communication unit 93 within a predetermined time after transmitting the address setting notification signal, the initial setting unit 97 sends a communication address to each indoor unit 120. Set. The communication address is set by transmitting an address setting signal including unique communication address data from the initial setting unit 97 to each indoor unit 120 via the second communication unit 93. The initial setting unit 97 completes the address setting process and starts the address registration process when a predetermined time has elapsed after transmitting the address setting notification signal.

  The address registration process specifies which communication system CS (refrigerant system RS) each indoor unit 120 is connected to, and indicates the specified communication system CS (refrigerant system RS) (hereinafter referred to as system specifying information). ) Is added to the communication address of each indoor unit 120 and registered. The address registration process includes a first system registration process, a second system registration process, a third system registration process, and a fourth system registration process. Note that the order in which each process is executed in the address registration process is not particularly limited, but in the present embodiment, the initial setting unit 97 performs the first system registration process, the second system registration process, the third system registration process, It is assumed that the processing is executed in the order of the four-line registration processing.

  In the first system registration process, the indoor unit 120 connected to the first communication system CS1 (first refrigerant system RS1) is specified, and the communication address of the indoor unit 120 is set to the first communication system CS1 (first refrigerant system RS1). ) Is added to the system specifying information and registered in the storage unit 91. In the second system registration process, the indoor unit 120 connected to the second communication system CS2 (second refrigerant system RS2) is specified, and the second communication system CS2 (second refrigerant system RS2) is assigned to the communication address of the indoor unit 120. ) Is added to the system specifying information and registered in the storage unit 91. In the third system registration process, the indoor unit 120 connected to the third communication system CS3 (third refrigerant system RS3) is specified, and the third communication system CS3 (third refrigerant system RS3) is assigned to the communication address of the indoor unit 120. ) Is added to the system specifying information and registered in the storage unit 91. In the fourth system registration process, the indoor unit 120 connected to the fourth communication system CS4 (fourth refrigerant system RS4) is specified, and the communication address of the indoor unit 120 is set to the fourth communication system CS4 (fourth refrigerant system RS4). ) Is added to the system specifying information and registered in the storage unit 91.

  In the first system registration process, the initial setting unit 97 first turns off the switching units 80 other than the first switching unit 81. Specifically, the initial setting unit 97 supplies a driving voltage to the second switching unit 82, the third switching unit 83, and the fourth switching unit 84 to supply the second switching unit 82, the third switching unit 83, and the fourth switching unit. The unit 84 is switched to the off state, and only the first switching unit 81 of the switching unit 80 is turned on. Next, the initial setting unit 97 broadcasts an address registration notification signal via the second communication unit 93. Thereby, an address registration notification signal is transmitted to all the indoor units 120 (in this embodiment, the indoor unit controllers 121a and 121b) connected to the first communication system CS1 (first refrigerant system RS1). Thereafter, when the address registration request signal is received before a predetermined time has elapsed since the address registration notification signal was transmitted, the initial setting unit 97 stores data indicating the communication address of each indoor unit 120 that has transmitted the address registration request signal. In addition, system identification information is added and registered in the storage unit 91. The initial setting unit 97 performs the same processing when receiving another address registration request signal before a predetermined time has elapsed since the address registration request signal was transmitted. When a predetermined time has elapsed after transmitting the address registration request signal, the initial setting unit 97 completes the first system registration process and starts the second system registration process.

  In the second system registration process, the initial setting unit 97 first turns off the switching units 80 other than the second switching unit 82. Specifically, the initial setting unit 97 supplies a drive voltage to the first switching unit 81, the third switching unit 83, and the fourth switching unit 84 to supply the first switching unit 81, the third switching unit 83, and the fourth switching unit. The unit 84 is switched to the off state, and only the second switching unit 82 of the switching unit 80 is turned on. Next, the initial setting unit 97 broadcasts an address registration notification signal via the second communication unit 93. Thereby, an address registration notification signal is transmitted to all the indoor units 120 (in this embodiment, the indoor unit control units 121c and 121d) connected to the second communication system CS2 (second refrigerant system RS2). Thereafter, when the address registration request signal is received before a predetermined time has elapsed since the address registration notification signal was transmitted, the initial setting unit 97 stores data indicating the communication address of each indoor unit 120 that has transmitted the address registration request signal. In addition, system identification information is added and registered in the storage unit 91. The initial setting unit 97 performs the same processing when receiving another address registration request signal before a predetermined time has elapsed since the address registration request signal was transmitted. When a predetermined time has elapsed after transmitting the address registration request signal, the initial setting unit 97 completes the second system registration process and starts the third system registration process.

  In the third system registration process, the initial setting unit 97 first turns off the switching units 80 other than the third switching unit 83. Specifically, the initial setting unit 97 supplies a driving voltage to the first switching unit 81, the second switching unit 82, and the fourth switching unit 84 to supply the first switching unit 81, the second switching unit 82, and the fourth switching unit. The unit 84 is switched to the OFF state, and only the third switching unit 83 of the switching unit 80 is set to the ON state. Next, the initial setting unit 97 broadcasts an address registration notification signal via the second communication unit 93. Thereby, the address registration notification signal is transmitted to all the indoor units 120 (in this embodiment, the indoor unit control units 121e and 121f) connected to the third communication system CS3 (third refrigerant system RS3). Thereafter, when the address registration request signal is received before a predetermined time has elapsed since the address registration notification signal was transmitted, the initial setting unit 97 stores data indicating the communication address of each indoor unit 120 that has transmitted the address registration request signal. In addition, system identification information is added and registered in the storage unit 91. The initial setting unit 97 performs the same processing when receiving another address registration request signal before a predetermined time has elapsed since the address registration request signal was transmitted. When a predetermined time has elapsed after transmitting the address registration request signal, the initial setting unit 97 completes the third system registration process and starts the fourth system registration process.

  In the fourth system registration process, the initial setting unit 97 first turns off the switching units 80 other than the fourth switching unit 84. Specifically, the initial setting unit 97 supplies a driving voltage to the first switching unit 81, the second switching unit 82, and the third switching unit 83 to supply the first switching unit 81, the second switching unit 82, and the third switching unit. The unit 83 is switched to the OFF state, and only the fourth switching unit 84 of the switching unit 80 is set to the ON state. Next, the initial setting unit 97 broadcasts an address registration notification signal via the second communication unit 93. Thereby, an address registration notification signal is transmitted to all the indoor units 120 (in this embodiment, the indoor unit control units 121g and 121h) connected to the fourth communication system CS4 (fourth refrigerant system RS4). Thereafter, when the address registration request signal is received before a predetermined time has elapsed since the address registration notification signal was transmitted, the initial setting unit 97 stores data indicating the communication address of each indoor unit 120 that has transmitted the address registration request signal. In addition, system identification information is added and registered in the storage unit 91. The initial setting unit 97 performs the same processing when receiving another address registration request signal before a predetermined time has elapsed since the address registration request signal was transmitted. The initial setting unit 97 completes the fourth system registration process when a predetermined time has elapsed after transmitting the address registration request signal, and turns on all the switching units 80. Then, the initial setting unit 97 stores information for changing the control mode from the initial setting mode to the normal mode in the storage unit 91.

  The initial setting unit 97 transmits the communication address of each indoor unit 120 (indoor unit control unit 121) registered in the storage unit 91 to the outdoor unit 110 (outdoor unit control unit 111). Further, the initial setting unit 97 transmits the communication address of the outdoor unit 110 to each indoor unit 120.

(4) Control Flow of Address Setting Process and Address Registration Process An example of the control flow in the initial setting mode of the intermediate unit control unit 131 will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of address setting processing and address registration processing in the initial setting mode of the intermediate unit controller 131.

  The intermediate unit control unit 131 transitions to the initial setting mode when the air conditioning system 100 is turned on. When the address acquisition processing is completed upon receiving the address setting signal from the outdoor unit control unit 111, the intermediate unit control unit 131 proceeds to step S101 and executes the address setting processing. To do.

  In step S101, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transmits an address setting notification signal to each indoor unit 120 (indoor unit control unit 121). Then, it progresses to step S102.

  In step S102, the intermediate unit control unit 131 determines whether or not a predetermined time has passed without receiving the address setting request signal after transmitting the address setting notification signal. If the determination is NO (that is, if a predetermined time has elapsed without receiving an address setting request signal), the process proceeds to step S104. On the other hand, if the determination is YES (that is, if the address setting request signal is received before the predetermined time has elapsed), the process proceeds to step S103.

  In step S <b> 103, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transmits an address setting signal to each indoor unit 120. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S104.

  In step S104, the intermediate unit control unit 131 starts the first system registration process. First, the intermediate unit control unit 131 turns off the second switching unit 82, the third switching unit 83, and the fourth switching unit 84 and turns on only the first switching unit 81. Thereafter, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transmits an address registration notification signal to the indoor unit 120 connected to the first communication system CS1 (first refrigerant system RS1). Then, the process proceeds to step S105.

  In step S105, the intermediate unit controller 131 determines whether or not the address registration request signal has been received within a predetermined time after transmitting the address registration notification signal, or a predetermined time has elapsed since the transmission of the address registration notification signal. It is determined whether or not. If the determination is NO (that is, if a predetermined time has elapsed without receiving an address registration request signal, or if a predetermined time has elapsed since the address registration notification signal was transmitted), the process proceeds to step S107. On the other hand, if the determination is YES (that is, if the address registration request signal is received before the predetermined time has elapsed), the process proceeds to step S106.

  In step S106, the intermediate unit control unit 131 determines that the indoor unit 120 that has transmitted the address registration request signal is connected to the first communication system CS1 (first refrigerant system RS1), and determines the communication address of the indoor unit 120. Is added to the system specifying information indicating the first communication system CS1 (first refrigerant system RS1) and registered in the storage unit 91. Then, the process returns to step S105.

  In step S107, the intermediate unit control unit 131 starts the second system registration process. First, the intermediate unit control unit 131 turns off the first switching unit 81, the third switching unit 83, and the fourth switching unit 84 and turns on only the second switching unit 82. Thereafter, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transmits an address registration notification signal to the indoor unit 120 connected to the second communication system CS2 (second refrigerant system RS2). Then, the process proceeds to step S108.

  In step S108, the intermediate unit control unit 131 performs the same determination as in step S105. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S110. On the other hand, if the determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S109.

  In step S109, the intermediate unit control unit 131 determines that the indoor unit 120 that has transmitted the address registration request signal is connected to the second communication system CS2 (second refrigerant system RS2), and determines the communication address of the indoor unit 120. Is added to the system specifying information indicating the second communication system CS2 (second refrigerant system RS2) and registered in the storage unit 91. Then, the process returns to step S108.

  In step S110, the intermediate unit control unit 131 starts the third system registration process. First, the intermediate unit control unit 131 turns off the first switching unit 81, the second switching unit 82, and the fourth switching unit 84 and turns on only the third switching unit 83. Thereafter, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transmits an address registration notification signal to the indoor unit 120 connected to the third communication system CS3 (third refrigerant system RS3). Then, the process proceeds to step S111.

  In step S111, the intermediate unit control unit 131 performs the same determination as in step S105. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S113. On the other hand, if the determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S112.

  In step S112, the intermediate unit control unit 131 determines that the indoor unit 120 that has transmitted the address registration request signal is connected to the third communication system CS3 (third refrigerant system RS3), and determines the communication address of the indoor unit 120. Is added to the system specifying information indicating the third communication system CS3 (third refrigerant system RS3) and registered in the storage unit 91. Then, the process returns to step S111.

  In step S113, the intermediate unit control unit 131 starts the fourth system registration process. First, the intermediate unit control unit 131 turns off the first switching unit 81, the second switching unit 82, and the third switching unit 83, and turns on only the fourth switching unit 84. Thereafter, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transmits an address registration notification signal to the indoor unit 120 connected to the fourth communication system CS4 (fourth refrigerant system RS4). Then, the process proceeds to step S114.

  In step S114, the intermediate unit control unit 131 performs the same determination as in step S105. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S116. On the other hand, if the determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S115.

  In step S115, the intermediate unit control unit 131 determines that the indoor unit 120 that has transmitted the address registration request signal is connected to the fourth communication system CS4 (fourth refrigerant system RS4), and determines the communication address of the indoor unit 120. Is added to the system specifying information indicating the fourth communication system CS4 (fourth refrigerant system RS4) and registered in the storage unit 91. Then, the process returns to step S114.

  In step S116, the intermediate unit control unit 131 turns on all the switching units 80. Thereafter, the intermediate unit control unit 131 makes a transition from the initial setting mode to the normal mode.

(5) Operation of Each Unit during Address Setting Processing and Address Registration Processing An example of the operation of each unit during the address setting processing and address registration processing will be described below with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8 are sequence diagrams showing the operation of each unit during the address setting process and the address registration process. 7 and 8, the address setting notification signal is “setting notification”, the address setting request signal is “setting request”, the address setting signal is “address setting”, the address registration notification signal is “registration notification”, and the address The registration request signal is described as “registration request”.

  As illustrated in FIG. 7, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transmits an address setting notification signal to the indoor unit control units 121a, 121b, 121c, 121d, 121e, 121f, 121g, and 121h in the address setting process. The indoor unit controllers 121a, 121b, 121c, 121d, 121e, 121f, 121g, and 121h that have received the address setting notification signal transmit address setting request signals to the intermediate unit controller 131 (at this time, any indoor unit It is assumed that the address is not yet set for the control unit 121).

  The intermediate unit controller 131 that has received the address setting request signal transmits an address setting signal including individual communication address data to the indoor unit controllers 121a, 121b, 121c, 121d, 121e, 121f, 121g, and 121h. . The indoor unit controllers 121a, 121b, 121c, 121d, 121e, 121f, 121g, and 121h that have received the address setting signal decode their communication addresses included in the address setting signal and store them in a predetermined storage area. (Not shown).

  When the address setting process is completed, the intermediate unit control unit 131 starts the first system registration process. In the first system registration process, the intermediate unit control unit 131 turns off the second switching unit 82, the third switching unit 83, and the fourth switching unit 84, and turns on only the first switching unit 81. Then, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transmits an address registration notification signal to the indoor unit control units 121a and 121b connected to the first communication system CS1 (first refrigerant system RS1). The indoor unit controllers 121 a and 121 b that have received the address registration notification signal transmit an address registration request signal to the intermediate unit controller 131. The intermediate unit control unit 131 that has received the address registration request signal determines that the indoor unit control units 121a and 121b are connected to the first communication system CS1 (first refrigerant system RS1), and the indoor unit control unit 121a and The system identification information indicating the first communication system CS1 (first refrigerant system RS1) is added to the communication address 121b and registered in the storage unit 91. That is, the intermediate unit control unit 131 stores the communication addresses of the indoor unit control units 121a and 121b and the first refrigerant system RS1 in association with each other.

  When the first system registration process is completed, the intermediate unit control unit 131 starts the second system registration process. In the second system registration process, the intermediate unit control unit 131 turns off the first switching unit 81, the third switching unit 83, and the fourth switching unit 84, and turns on only the second switching unit 82. Then, the intermediate unit controller 131 transmits an address registration notification signal to the indoor unit controllers 121c and 121d connected to the second communication system CS2 (second refrigerant system RS2). Receiving the address registration notification signal, the indoor unit controllers 121c and 121d transmit an address registration request signal to the intermediate unit controller 131. The intermediate unit control unit 131 that has received the address registration request signal determines that the indoor unit control units 121c and 121d are connected to the second communication system CS2 (second refrigerant system RS2), and the indoor unit control unit 121c and The system identification information indicating the second communication system CS2 (second refrigerant system RS2) is added to the communication address 121d and registered in the storage unit 91. That is, the intermediate unit control unit 131 stores the communication addresses of the indoor unit control units 121c and 121d and the second refrigerant system RS2 in association with each other.

  When the second system registration process is completed, the intermediate unit control unit 131 starts the third system registration process. In the third system registration process, the intermediate unit control unit 131 turns off the first switching unit 81, the second switching unit 82, and the fourth switching unit 84 and turns on only the third switching unit 83. Then, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transmits an address registration notification signal to the indoor unit control units 121e and 121f connected to the third communication system CS3 (third refrigerant system RS3). The indoor unit controllers 121e and 121f that have received the address registration notification signal transmit an address registration request signal to the intermediate unit controller 131. The intermediate unit control unit 131 that has received the address registration request signal determines that the indoor unit control units 121e and 121f are connected to the third communication system CS3 (third refrigerant system RS3), and the indoor unit control unit 121e and The system identification information indicating the third communication system CS3 (third refrigerant system RS3) is added to the communication address of 121f and registered in the storage unit 91. That is, the intermediate unit controller 131 stores the communication addresses of the indoor unit controllers 121e and 121f and the third refrigerant system RS3 in association with each other.

  When the third system registration process is completed, the intermediate unit control unit 131 starts the fourth system registration process. In the fourth system registration process, the intermediate unit control unit 131 turns off the first switching unit 81, the second switching unit 82, and the third switching unit 83, and turns on only the fourth switching unit 84. Then, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transmits an address registration notification signal to the indoor unit control units 121g and 121h connected to the fourth communication system CS4 (fourth refrigerant system RS4). Upon receiving the address registration notification signal, the indoor unit controllers 121g and 121h transmit an address registration request signal to the intermediate unit controller 131. The intermediate unit control unit 131 that has received the address registration request signal determines that the indoor unit control units 121g and 121h are connected to the fourth communication system CS4 (fourth refrigerant system RS4), and the indoor unit control unit 121g and System identification information indicating the fourth communication system CS4 (fourth refrigerant system RS4) is added to the communication address of 121h and registered in the storage unit 91. That is, the intermediate unit control unit 131 stores the communication addresses of the indoor unit control units 121g and 121h and the fourth refrigerant system RS4 in association with each other.

  When the fourth system registration process is completed, the intermediate unit control unit 131 turns on all the switching units 80. That is, the intermediate unit control unit 131 makes all the communication systems CS conductive via the switching unit 80 after the address registration process is completed. Then, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transitions from the initial setting mode to the normal mode.

(6) Features (6-1)
In the above embodiment, each communication system CS is connected to the indoor unit 120 connected to the corresponding refrigerant system RS. Further, the intermediate unit 130 includes a switching unit 80 arranged in each communication system CS. When the power is turned on, the communication unit CS belongs to each communication unit CS by switching between conduction and interruption of each communication system CS via the switching unit 80. The system CS (refrigerant system RS) is discriminated. In other words, the intermediate unit 130 determines to which refrigerant system RS each indoor unit 120 is connected by determining which communication system CS each indoor unit 120 is connected to in the address registration process. I have identified. As a result, in the air conditioning system 100 including the plurality of refrigerant systems RS and the plurality of communication systems CS, the time for initial setting is shortened.

(6-2)
In the above embodiment, the intermediate unit 130 sets the communication address for each indoor unit 120 in the address setting process, and then in each address registration process, each indoor unit 120 is assigned to which communication system CS (refrigerant system RS). It is identified whether it is connected, and a communication address and a communication system CS (refrigerant system RS) are stored in association with each other. As a result, the initial setting is smoothed in the air conditioning system 100.

(6-3)
In the above embodiment, after the address registration process, the intermediate unit 130 turns on each switching unit 80 to conduct all the communication systems CS. That is, the intermediate unit 130 switches between conduction and interruption of the communication system CS only in the initial setting mode. As a result, in the air conditioning system 100, after the initial setting is completed, it is possible to perform communication between each indoor unit 120 and the intermediate unit 130 without performing special processing such as conduction and interruption of the communication system CS. .

(6-4)
In the above embodiment, the communication cables 151, 152, 153, and 154 constituting each communication system CS extend along the liquid pipe LP or the gas pipe GP constituting the corresponding refrigerant system RS. As a result, in the air conditioning system 100, the communication system CS can be provided in association with a specific refrigerant system RS while suppressing erroneous wiring.

(6-5)
In the above embodiment, the intermediate unit 130 transmits and receives signals to and from the outdoor unit 110 via the communication cable 112 that does not belong to any communication system CS, and is transmitted and received in communication between the outdoor unit 110 and each indoor unit 120. The signal is being relayed. As a result, in the air conditioning system 100, it is not necessary to directly connect the outdoor unit 110 and each indoor unit 120 with a communication cable, and communication between the outdoor unit 110 and each indoor unit 120 can be performed with a simple configuration. ing.

(7) Modification (7-1) Modification A
In the above embodiment, the outdoor unit 110 and the intermediate unit 130 are arranged one by one. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and there may be two or more outdoor units 110 and intermediate units 130.

  In the above embodiment, each refrigerant system RS (communication system CS) is connected to the two indoor units 120. However, the number of indoor units 120 connected to each refrigerant system RS (communication system CS) may be any number, for example, one or three or more.

(7-2) Modification B
In the said embodiment, although communication system CS and refrigerant | coolant system | strain RS were comprised by four systems, it is not limited to this, Communication system CS and refrigerant | coolant system | strain RS may be what kind of system | strain. For example, the communication system CS and the refrigerant system RS may be two systems or eight systems.

(7-3) Modification C
In the above embodiment, in the above embodiment, the switching unit 80 (the first switching unit 81, the second switching unit 82, the third switching unit 83, and the fourth switching unit 84) is supplied with a drive voltage. It was an electromagnetic relay that was turned on when the drive voltage was supplied, and turned off when the drive voltage was supplied, but it was turned off when the drive voltage was not supplied. A thing may be adopted. The switching unit 80 is not limited to an electromagnetic relay, and may be a semiconductor switch such as a transistor, a contactless relay, or the like.

(7-4) Modification D
In the above-described embodiment, the intermediate unit control unit 131 performs control for turning on all the switching units 80 and transitioning from the initial setting mode to the normal mode after the completion of the fourth system registration process. However, the intermediate unit control unit 131 may be configured to execute an error process after the completion of the fourth system registration process and before the transition to the normal mode.

  For example, as error processing, the intermediate unit control unit 131 is configured to determine whether or not the communication address of the indoor unit 120 is registered in the storage unit 91 after completion of the fourth system registration processing. Also good. If duplicate registration exists, the intermediate unit control unit 131 may determine that there is an error in address setting and perform control so that the address setting process is executed again. In addition, after the address setting process is executed again, if there is a duplicate registration, the intermediate unit control unit 131 displays a warning on the remote controller or the like and interrupts the initial address setting process and the address registration process. You may do it.

(7-5) Modification E
In the above embodiment, the intermediate unit control unit 131 executes the process in the initial setting mode according to the flow shown in FIG. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the intermediate unit control unit 131 may perform processing in a flow as shown in FIG. 9 in the initial setting mode.

  In the processing flow shown in FIG. 9, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transitions to the initial setting mode when the air conditioning system 100 is turned on, and receives the address setting signal from the outdoor unit control unit 111 to complete the address acquisition process. Proceeding to S201, an address setting registration process is executed.

  In step S201, the intermediate unit control unit 131 turns off the second switching unit 82, the third switching unit 83, and the fourth switching unit 84 and turns on only the first switching unit 81. Thereafter, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transmits an address setting notification signal to the indoor unit 120 connected to the first communication system CS1 (first refrigerant system RS1). Then, the process proceeds to step S202.

  In step S202, the intermediate unit control unit 131 determines whether or not the address setting request signal is received within a predetermined time after transmitting the address setting notification signal, or a predetermined time has elapsed since the transmission of the address setting notification signal. It is determined whether or not. If the determination is NO (that is, if a predetermined time has elapsed without receiving an address setting request signal, or if a predetermined time has elapsed since the address setting signal was transmitted), the process proceeds to step S204. On the other hand, if the determination is YES (that is, if the address setting request signal is received before the predetermined time has elapsed), the process proceeds to step S203.

  In step S <b> 203, the intermediate unit control unit 131 sets a unique communication address for the indoor unit 120 that has transmitted the address setting request signal, and transmits an address setting signal to the indoor unit 120. At the same time, system identification information indicating the first communication system CS1 (first refrigerant system RS1) is added to the communication address of the indoor unit 120 and registered in the storage unit 91. Then, the process returns to step S202.

  In step S204, the intermediate unit control unit 131 turns off the first switching unit 81, the third switching unit 83, and the fourth switching unit 84 and turns on only the second switching unit 82. Thereafter, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transmits an address setting notification signal to the indoor unit 120 connected to the second communication system CS2 (second refrigerant system RS2). Then, the process proceeds to step S205.

  In step S205, the intermediate unit control unit 131 performs the same determination as in step S202. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S207. On the other hand, if the determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S206.

  In step S <b> 206, the intermediate unit control unit 131 sets a unique communication address for the indoor unit 120 that has transmitted the address setting request signal, and transmits an address setting signal to the indoor unit 120. At the same time, system identification information indicating the second communication system CS2 (second refrigerant system RS2) is added to the communication address of the indoor unit 120 and registered in the storage unit 91. Then, the process returns to step S205.

  In step S207, the intermediate unit control unit 131 turns off the first switching unit 81, the second switching unit 82, and the fourth switching unit 84, and turns on only the third switching unit 83. Thereafter, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transmits an address setting notification signal to the indoor unit 120 connected to the third communication system CS3 (third refrigerant system RS3). Then, the process proceeds to step S208.

  In step S208, the intermediate unit control unit 131 performs the same determination as in step S202. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S210. On the other hand, if the determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S209.

  In step S209, the intermediate unit control unit 131 sets a unique communication address for the indoor unit 120 that has transmitted the address setting request signal, and transmits an address setting signal to the indoor unit 120. At the same time, system identification information indicating the third communication system CS3 (third refrigerant system RS3) is added to the communication address of the indoor unit 120 and registered in the storage unit 91. Then, the process returns to step S208.

  In step S210, the intermediate unit control unit 131 turns off the first switching unit 81, the second switching unit 82, and the third switching unit 83, and turns on only the fourth switching unit 84. Thereafter, the intermediate unit control unit 131 transmits an address setting notification signal to the indoor unit 120 connected to the fourth communication system CS4 (fourth refrigerant system RS4). Then, the process proceeds to step S211.

  In step S211, the intermediate unit control unit 131 performs the same determination as in step S202. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S213. On the other hand, if the determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S212.

  In step S <b> 212, the intermediate unit control unit 131 sets a unique communication address for the indoor unit 120 that has transmitted the address setting request signal, and transmits an address setting signal to the indoor unit 120. At the same time, system identification information indicating the fourth communication system CS4 (fourth refrigerant system RS4) is added to the communication address of the indoor unit 120 and registered in the storage unit 91. Then, the process returns to step S211.

  In step S213, the intermediate unit control unit 131 turns on all the switching units 80. Thereafter, the intermediate unit controller 131 transitions from the initial setting mode to the normal mode.

  As described above, in the processing flow shown in FIG. 6, the intermediate unit control unit 131 performs the address registration processing after the address setting processing is completed. However, in the processing flow shown in FIG. Registration processing is performed simultaneously. The object of the present invention is also achieved by such a processing flow.

  The present invention is applicable to an air conditioning system.

11 Liquid communication pipe 12 Gas communication pipe 13 High / low pressure gas communication pipe 55 1st header 56 2nd header 57 3rd header 58 4th header 70 BS unit 70a 1st BS unit 70b 2nd BS unit 70c 3rd BS unit 70d 4th BS unit 80 Switching unit 81 first switching unit 82 second switching unit 83 third switching unit 84 fourth switching unit 91 storage unit 92 first communication unit 93 second communication unit 94 first communication control unit 95 second communication control unit 96 BS unit Control unit 97 Initial setting unit 100 Air conditioning system 110 Outdoor unit (heat source side unit)
111 Outdoor unit controller 112 Communication cable (second transmission line)
120 (120a-h) Indoor unit (use side unit)
121 (121a-h) Indoor unit controller 130 Intermediate unit (refrigerant branch unit)
131 Intermediate unit controllers 151 to 154 Communication cable (transmission path)
CS communication system CS1 first communication system CS2 second communication system CS3 third communication system CS4 fourth communication system EV1 first electric valve EV2 second electric valve EV3 third electric valve GP (GP1 to GP4) gas pipe (refrigerant pipe)
LP (LP1-4) Liquid pipe (refrigerant piping)
RS refrigerant system RS1 1st refrigerant system RS2 2nd refrigerant system RS3 3rd refrigerant system RS4 4th refrigerant system

JP 2000-146266 A

Claims (5)

A heat source side unit (110);
A plurality of usage-side units (120);
A refrigerant branching unit (130) for communicating with the heat source side unit and the usage side unit;
With
The refrigerant branching unit is disposed between the heat source side unit and the use side unit, and includes a plurality of refrigerant systems (RS1, RS2, RS3, RS4) and a plurality of communication systems (CS1, CS2, CS3, CS4). And a changeover switch (81, 82, 83, 84) that is arranged in each communication system and switches between conduction and interruption of each communication system,
Each refrigerant system is connected to one or more usage-side units,
Each of the communication systems is associated with one of the refrigerant systems on a one-to-one basis, connected to the use side unit connected to the corresponding refrigerant system, and between the use side unit and the refrigerant branch unit. Send control signals sent and received at
The refrigerant branching unit is configured to determine the communication system to which each of the usage-side units is connected by switching between conduction and interruption of each of the communication systems via each of the change-over switches when the power is turned on. The refrigerant system specifying operation for specifying which refrigerant system is connected to the refrigerant system,
Air conditioning system (100). The refrigerant branching unit performs the refrigerant system specifying operation after setting a communication address for each indoor unit, and stores the communication address and the refrigerant system in association with each other after the refrigerant system specifying operation.
The air conditioning system (100) of claim 1. The refrigerant branching unit conducts all the communication systems via the changeover switches after the refrigerant system specifying operation.
The air conditioning system (100) according to claim 1 or 2. Each transmission path (151, 152, 153, 154) constituting each communication system extends along a refrigerant pipe (LP, GP) constituting the corresponding refrigerant system,
The air conditioning system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The refrigerant branching unit transmits and receives signals to and from the heat source side unit via the second transmission path (112) that does not belong to any of the communication systems, and in communication between the heat source side unit and each of the usage side units. Relay signals to be sent and received,
The air conditioning system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

Images