JP7361494B2 - Air conditioning control device, air conditioning control system, air conditioning control method, and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an air conditioning control device , an air conditioning control system, an air conditioning control method, and a program.

BACKGROUND ART Currently, in an air conditioning system including an outdoor unit and a plurality of indoor units, a technique is known for adjusting an operating temperature and a stop temperature so that the room temperature is generally maintained at a set temperature. For example, in the case of heating, the operating temperature is the temperature at which the heating operation is started, and is set to a temperature lower than the set temperature. Further, the stop temperature is, for example, in the case of heating, the temperature at which the heating operation is stopped, and is set to a temperature higher than the set temperature.

For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that increases the stop temperature based on the magnitude of the excessively low temperature when the excessively low temperature, which is the difference between the set temperature and the lowest value of the room temperature, is excessive during heating operation. Are listed. By the way, when a plurality of indoor units are used to condition the air in the same space, it is common that the same operating temperature and the same stop temperature are set for the plurality of indoor units. In this case, in response to the room temperature reaching the operating temperature, the plurality of indoor units start operating all at once.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-169827

However, when multiple indoor units start operating at the same time, the suction temperature detected as room temperature by one indoor unit quickly reaches the stop temperature due to the operation of the other indoor units, and the indoor unit immediately stops operating. It may stop. For example, in the case of heating, when the indoor unit sucks warm air blown out by another indoor unit, the indoor unit detects the suction temperature, which is the temperature of the warm air, as room temperature. In this case, even if the room temperature has not reached the stop temperature, the indoor unit is likely to assume that the room temperature has reached the stop temperature and stop blowing out hot air.

In this way, if the operation is stopped early due to the influence of other indoor units, the average room temperature will not be maintained at about the set temperature, which is undesirable. On the other hand, the technique described in Patent Document 1 is a technique for suppressing an increase in the frequency of starting and stopping of the compressor, and is basically not a technique for appropriately solving such problems. For this reason, there is a need for technology that realizes appropriate temperature control using multiple indoor units.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and aims to provide an air conditioning control device , an air conditioning control system, an air conditioning control method, and a program that realize appropriate temperature control using a plurality of indoor units. do.

In order to achieve the above object, an air conditioning control device according to the present invention includes:
An air conditioning control device connected to a plurality of indoor units connected to an outdoor unit via a communication network,
early stop detection means for detecting that a plurality of first indoor units among the plurality of indoor units are in an early stop state, which is a state in which the blowing of air to bring the room temperature to a set temperature is stopped early;
When the early stop detection means detects that the plurality of first indoor units are in the early stop state, a stop temperature is a temperature based on the set temperature and is a temperature at which the blowing of the wind is stopped. temperature changing means for changing the stop temperature for a second indoor unit among the plurality of first indoor units ;
and equipment control means for controlling the second indoor unit using the stop temperature changed by the temperature change means.

In the present invention, when it is detected that the indoor unit is in an early stop state, the indoor unit is controlled at an appropriate stop temperature. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to realize appropriate temperature control using a plurality of indoor units.

Configuration diagram of an air conditioning system to which an air conditioning control device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is applied Configuration diagram of an air conditioning control device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention Functional configuration diagram of an air conditioning control device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention Diagram of early stop state A diagram showing a screen displayed by the air conditioning control device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention External view of the remote controller according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention Flowchart showing air conditioning control processing executed by the air conditioning control device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention Functional configuration diagram of an air conditioning control device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention Flowchart showing air conditioning control processing executed by an air conditioning control device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention Flowchart showing air conditioning control processing executed by an air conditioning control device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention A diagram showing a screen displayed by an air conditioning control device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention External view of a remote controller according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention Flowchart showing air conditioning control processing executed by an air conditioning control device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention Flowchart showing air conditioning control processing executed by an air conditioning control device according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention Functional configuration diagram of an indoor unit according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention Configuration diagram of an air conditioning control system according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention Functional configuration diagram of an air conditioning control system according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention

(Embodiment 1)
First, with reference to FIG. 1, the configuration of an air conditioning system to which an air conditioning control device 100 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is applied will be described. The air conditioning control device 100 is a device that is connected to an air conditioning system via a communication network 600, sets setting values in an indoor unit 300 included in the air conditioning system, and controls the air conditioning system. The set values are, for example, a set temperature, an operating temperature, and a stop temperature. Note that the indoor unit 300 air-conditions the room according to set values under the control of the air conditioning control device 100.

The set temperature is a target room temperature in heating operation or cooling operation. The operating temperature is the temperature at which heating or cooling operation is started. The stop temperature is the temperature at which the heating operation or cooling operation is stopped. In this embodiment, an example in which the indoor unit 300 performs a heating operation will be described. In addition, in the case of heating, the operating temperature is the temperature at which the heating operation, that is, the blowing of hot air is started, and is set to a temperature lower than the set temperature. Further, in the case of heating, the stop temperature is the temperature at which the heating operation is stopped, and is set to a temperature higher than the set temperature. The set temperature is set by the user, for example. The operating temperature and the stop temperature are basically set based on the set temperature.

As shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioning system includes group A and group B. Group A includes an outdoor unit 200A, an indoor unit 300AA, an indoor unit 300AB, an indoor unit 300AC, a remote controller 400AA, a remote controller 400AB, and a remote controller 400AC. Group B includes an outdoor unit 200B, an indoor unit 300BA, an indoor unit 300BB, a remote controller 400BA, and a remote controller 400BB.

Hereinafter, the outdoor unit 200A and the outdoor unit 200B will be collectively referred to as the outdoor unit 200 as appropriate. Further, the indoor unit 300AA, the indoor unit 300AB, the indoor unit 300AC, the indoor unit 300BA, and the indoor unit 300BB are collectively referred to as the indoor unit 300. Further, the remote controller 400AA, the remote controller 400AB, the remote controller 400AC, the remote controller 400BA, and the remote controller 400BB are collectively referred to as the remote controller 400.

The outdoor unit 200 is an air conditioner installed outdoors. The outdoor unit 200 includes, for example, a compressor, a four-way valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion valve, an outdoor blower, and the like. Indoor unit 300 is an air conditioner provided indoors. The indoor unit 300 includes, for example, an indoor heat exchanger, an indoor blower, and the like. The outdoor unit 200 and the indoor unit 300 are connected to each other by refrigerant piping. The outdoor unit 200 and the indoor unit 300 cooperate to realize indoor heating or cooling. The remote controller 400 is provided for each indoor unit 300, for example, and receives operations on the indoor unit 300 by the user.

In this embodiment, a plurality of indoor units 300 connected to the same outdoor unit 200 are arranged in the same room. For example, indoor unit 300AA, indoor unit 300AB, and indoor unit 300AC connected to outdoor unit 200A are arranged in the same room. Here, the same set temperature, the same operating temperature, and the same stop temperature are often set for the plurality of indoor units 300 arranged in the same room. However, a plurality of indoor units 300 arranged in the same room may mutually suck in air blown out for heating or cooling. In this case, the suction temperature that indoor unit 300 detects as room temperature is significantly different from the actual room temperature, and there is a high possibility that indoor unit 300 will stop operating early.

For example, in the case of heating, it is assumed that indoor unit 300AA sucks the warm air blown out by indoor unit 300AB. In this case, when the indoor unit 300AA detects that the suction temperature, which is the temperature of the hot air drawn in, has reached the stop temperature, it stops the heating operation even though the actual room temperature has not reached the stop temperature, Stop blowing hot air. As a result, the actual room temperature is considered to be lower than the room temperature expected from the set temperature. Therefore, in this embodiment, when it is estimated that the indoor unit 300 has stopped its operation early, the stop temperature set for the indoor unit 300 is increased so that a sufficient heating effect can be obtained. Note that the suction temperature may be detected by a temperature sensor provided inside the indoor unit 300 or may be detected by a temperature sensor provided outside the indoor unit 300.

Air conditioning control device 100 is connected to outdoor unit 200 and indoor unit 300 via communication network 600. The communication network 600 is, for example, a communication network for realizing serial communication via a plurality of electric wires. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the remote controller 400 is not connected to the communication network 600 and that the indoor unit 300 and the remote controller 400 can communicate wirelessly. The air conditioning control device 100, the outdoor unit 200, and the indoor unit 300 transmit and receive frame data including a destination address, command, and data, for example, via the communication network 600.

As shown in FIG. 2, the air conditioning control device 100 physically includes a processor 11, a flash memory 12, a touch screen 13, and a communication interface 14.

The processor 11 controls the overall operation of the air conditioning control device 100. The processor 11 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that includes a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), an RTC (Real Time Clock), and the like. Note that the CPU operates, for example, according to a basic program stored in the ROM, and uses the RAM as a work area.

Flash memory 12 stores various information. The flash memory 12 stores, for example, a program executed by the processor 11. Furthermore, the flash memory 12 stores various data used in air conditioning control processing. The touch screen 13 detects operations performed by the user and supplies signals indicating the detection results to the processor 11. The touch screen 13 also displays information under the control of the processor 11. Communication interface 14 is a communication interface for connecting air conditioning control device 100 to communication network 600.

Next, the functions of the air conditioning control device 100 will be explained with reference to FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 3, the air conditioning control device 100 functionally includes an operation control unit 103 including an operation reception unit 101, an early stop detection unit 102, a temperature change unit 104, an equipment control unit 105, and a display unit. 106. The early stop detection means corresponds to, for example, the early stop detection section 102. The temperature changing means corresponds to, for example, the temperature changing unit 104. The device control means corresponds to, for example, the device control section 105. The display means corresponds to the display section 106, for example.

The operation accepting unit 101 accepts operations by the user. For example, the operation reception unit 101 receives from the user an operation to instruct to start heating, an operation to instruct to stop heating, an operation to instruct to increase the set temperature, an operation to instruct to lower the set temperature, etc. The functions of the operation reception unit 101 are realized by, for example, the functions of the touch screen 13.

The early stop detection unit 102 detects that the first indoor unit is in an early stop state. The first indoor unit is at least one indoor unit 300 among the plurality of indoor units 300. The early stop state is a state in which the blowing of air to bring the room temperature to the set temperature is stopped early. In this embodiment, the early stop state is a state in which the blowing of hot air for raising the room temperature to the set temperature is stopped early. For example, if the first indoor unit is sucking in warm air blown out from another indoor unit 300, it is considered to be in an early stop state. Note that the early stop detection unit 102 determines whether or not each of the plurality of indoor units 300 is in an early stop state. The function of the early stop detection unit 102 is realized, for example, by the processor 11 and the communication interface 14 working together.

Here, the method by which the early stop detection unit 102 determines whether the first indoor unit is in the early stop state can be adjusted as appropriate. For example, the early stop detection unit 102 detects the percentage of the period during which the suction temperature detected by the first indoor unit does not reach the set temperature set for the first indoor unit (hereinafter referred to as appropriate) in the most recent unit time. (referred to as "unachieved time ratio") is equal to or greater than the ratio threshold value, it can be determined that the first indoor unit is in an early stop state. In the case of heating, if the suction temperature has reached the set temperature, it means that the suction temperature is above the set temperature, and if the suction temperature has not reached the set temperature, it means that the suction temperature is below the set temperature. do. On the other hand, in the case of air conditioning, if the suction temperature has reached the set temperature, it means that the suction temperature is below the set temperature, and if the suction temperature has not reached the set temperature, it means that the suction temperature has exceeded the set temperature. It means that.

A high percentage of unattained time basically means that the heating is not sufficient. Therefore, if the non-attainment time ratio is high, it is desirable to raise the stop temperature in order to provide sufficient heating. Note that the unit time and the ratio threshold can be adjusted as appropriate. In this embodiment, the unit time is 15 minutes and the percentage threshold is 70%.

The operation control unit 103 controls the operation of the indoor unit 300 via the communication network 600. The operation control unit 103 transmits, for example, heating start instruction information that instructs to start heating operation, heating stop instruction information that instructs to stop heating operation, temperature information that indicates a set temperature, a stop temperature, an operating temperature, etc., to the communication network. 600 to the indoor unit 300.

The driving control unit 103 switches between normal driving and avoidance driving. Normal operation is an operation in which indoor unit 300 is controlled without changing settings such as set temperature, stop temperature, and operating temperature. On the other hand, the avoidance operation is an operation in which the indoor unit 300 is controlled by changing settings such as a set temperature, a stop temperature, and an operating temperature. The avoidance operation is executed when it is detected that the first indoor unit is in an early stop state and the temperature change unit 104 changes the stop temperature of the first indoor unit. The functions of the operation control unit 103 are realized, for example, by the processor 11 and the communication interface 14 working together.

When the early stop detection unit 102 detects that the first indoor unit is in an early stop state, the temperature change unit 104 changes the stop temperature for the first indoor unit so that the difference between the stop temperature and the set temperature increases. change. Note that the stop temperature is a temperature based on the set temperature, and is a temperature at which the blowing of air is stopped. In the case of heating, the stop temperature is higher than the set temperature. Therefore, in the case of heating, increasing the difference between the stop temperature and the set temperature means raising the stop temperature. The function of the temperature change unit 104 is realized by the function of the processor 11, for example.

The device control unit 105 controls the first indoor unit using the stop temperature changed by the temperature change unit 104. Specifically, the device control unit 105 transmits information indicating the stop temperature changed by the temperature change unit 104 to the first indoor unit via the communication network 600. The device control unit 105 transmits information indicating the changed stop temperature to the first indoor unit every time the temperature change unit 104 changes the stop temperature. For example, when the temperature change unit 104 raises the stop temperature in stages, the device control unit 105 transmits information indicating the changed stop temperature to the first indoor unit each time the stop temperature is raised by one step. The functions of the device control unit 105 are realized, for example, by the processor 11 and the communication interface 14 working together.

The display unit 106 displays various screens. For example, the display unit 106 displays a screen that presents the operating mode and temperature setting for each indoor unit 300. On this screen, the display unit 106 indicates that the indoor unit 300 in the early stop state is in the early stop state, that the stop temperature has been raised, or by how many degrees Celsius the stop temperature has been raised. May be presented. The functions of the display unit 106 are realized, for example, by the processor 11 and the touch screen 13 working together.

Next, the normal operating state and the early stop state will be described with reference to FIG. 4. The early stop state is a state in which the blowing of hot air stops prematurely. The early stop state typically occurs when the indoor unit 300 is sucking in warm air blown out by another indoor unit 300 during heating operation. The normal operating state is a state that is not an early stop state, and is a state in which the blowing of hot air stops at an appropriate timing. The normal operating state typically occurs when the indoor unit 300 is not sucking in hot air blown out by other indoor units 300 during heating operation. Hereinafter, when the heat exchange between the refrigerant and the indoor air is stopped and the blowing of hot air is stopped, this is referred to as thermo-off, and when the heat exchange between the refrigerant and the indoor air is started, the blowing of hot air starts. This is called thermo-on.

In FIG. 4, the broken line graph is a graph showing changes in room temperature when the indoor unit 300 is in a normal operating state. When the indoor unit 300 is in a normal operating state, there is no large difference between the suction temperature and the room temperature. Therefore, the indoor unit 300 stops blowing out hot air at the timing when the suction temperature reaches the stop temperature, in other words, at the timing when the room temperature reaches the stop temperature. Tsp1 is the timing at which hot air blowing is stopped in the normal operating state. Thereafter, due to factors such as the circulation of air in the room and the outflow of hot air after the hot air blowing has stopped, the room temperature continues to rise even after the hot air blowing has stopped. Then, the room temperature reaches Dp1, which is the peak of room temperature, at Tp1. After that, the room temperature gradually decreases.

In FIG. 4, the solid line graph is a graph showing the change in room temperature when the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state. When the indoor unit 300 is in the early stop state, the suction temperature is higher than room temperature. Therefore, the indoor unit 300 stops blowing out hot air at a timing when the suction temperature reaches the stop temperature, in other words, at a timing earlier than Tsp3, which is the timing when the room temperature reaches the stop temperature. Tsp2 is the timing at which hot air blowing is stopped in the early stop state. Thereafter, due to factors such as the circulation of air in the room and the outflow of hot air after the hot air blowing has stopped, the room temperature continues to rise even after the hot air blowing has stopped. Then, the room temperature reaches Dp2, which is the peak of room temperature, at Tp2. After that, the room temperature gradually decreases.

Here, the time from Tsp1 to Tp1 and the time from Tsp2 to Tp2 are approximately the same, and the degree of rise in room temperature in the period from Tsp1 to Tp1 is the same as the degree of rise in room temperature in the period from Tsp2 to Tp2. It shall be of the same extent. Further, Dsp2, which is the room temperature at Tsp2, is lower than the stop temperature, which is the room temperature at Tsp1. Therefore, Dp2 is lower than Dp1. In other words, when the indoor unit 300 is in the early stop state, the peak room temperature and the average room temperature are lower than when the indoor unit 300 is in the normal operating state, and the percentage of time during which the room temperature does not reach the set temperature The percentage of unachieved time is also high. Therefore, the air conditioning control device 100 determines whether or not the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state based on this unattained time ratio.

Next, with reference to FIG. 5, the screen 700 displayed by the air conditioning control device 100 will be described. Screen 700 is a screen that presents the status of each of the plurality of indoor units 300. Specifically, the screen 700 is a screen that presents, for each indoor unit 300, an image 701 showing the operating state, an image 702 showing the set temperature, and an image 703 showing the temperature increased by the stop temperature. On the screen 700, ID. 10 indoor units 300 and ID. 11 indoor units 300 and ID. 14 indoor units 300 and ID. 15 indoor units 300, ID. It is shown that 17 indoor units 300 are in the early stop state, and the other indoor units 300 are in the normal operating state.

More specifically, the screen 700 shows ID. 10 indoor units 300 and ID. It is shown that the stop temperature of No. 11 indoor unit 300 has been raised by 1°C. In this case, ID. 10 indoor units 300 and ID. It is estimated that the indoor unit 300 No. 11 detects a suction temperature slightly higher than the room temperature by sucking in a small amount of the warm air blown out by the other indoor units 300. That is, in this case, for example, ID. 10 indoor units 300 and ID. It is estimated that the eleven indoor units 300 are arranged in such a positional relationship that they slightly suck in the hot air blown out from each other.

The screen 700 also displays the ID. 14 indoor units 300 and ID. 15 indoor units 300 and ID. It is shown that the stop temperature of No. 17 indoor unit 300 has been raised by 3°C. In this case, ID. 14 indoor units 300 and ID. 15 indoor units 300 and ID. It is estimated that the indoor unit 300 No. 17 detects a suction temperature considerably higher than the room temperature by sucking in a large amount of hot air blown out by the other indoor units 300. That is, in this case, for example, ID. 14 indoor units 300 and ID. 15 indoor units 300 and ID. It is estimated that the 17 indoor units 300 are arranged in such a positional relationship that they mutually suck in a large amount of the blown warm air.

Next, with reference to FIG. 6, screen 710 displayed by remote controller 400 will be described. As shown in FIG. 6, the remote controller 400 includes a screen 710, a button 714, a button 715, a button 716, a button 717, and a button 718. Although not shown, the remote controller 400 includes a processor that controls the overall operation of the remote controller 400, a touch screen that displays various information and accepts various operations, a flash memory that stores various information, and an indoor and a communication interface for communicating with the machine 300.

Screen 710 is a screen that presents the status of indoor unit 300. The screen 710 is a screen that presents an image 711 showing the operating state, an image 712 showing the set temperature, and an image 713 showing the temperature increased by the stop temperature. The screen 710 shows that the indoor unit 300 corresponding to this remote controller 400 is in an early stop state. Note that the remote controller 400 can obtain various types of information to be presented on the screen 710 from the indoor unit 300 via the communication interface described above.

Button 714 is a button that accepts an operation to instruct cooling operation. Button 715 is a button that accepts an operation to instruct heating operation. Button 716 is a button that accepts an operation to instruct ventilation operation. Button 717 is a button that accepts an operation to instruct to raise the set temperature. Button 718 is a button that accepts an operation to instruct to lower the set temperature. When the user operates these buttons, the remote controller 400 can transmit operation information indicating the content of the operation to the indoor unit 300 via the communication interface described above.

Next, the air conditioning control process executed by the air conditioning control device 100 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 7. For example, the air conditioning control device 100 starts executing air conditioning control processing in response to being powered on.

First, the processor 11 determines whether the set temperature has been changed (step S101). For example, the processor 11 determines whether or not the touch screen 13 accepts an operation instructing to change the set temperature. Alternatively, for example, the processor 11 determines whether the communication interface 14 has received information instructing to change the set temperature. The set temperature may be set for each indoor unit 300, may be set for each group, or one set temperature may be set for all indoor units 300. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the set temperature is set for each indoor unit 300.

If the processor 11 determines that the set temperature has not been changed (step S101: NO), the process returns to step S101. When the processor 11 determines that the set temperature has been changed (step S101: YES), it calculates a stop temperature and an operating temperature (step S102). The processor 11 calculates a stop temperature and an operating temperature for each indoor unit 300 based on the set temperature. Note that the stop temperature calculated here is called the initial value of the stop temperature, and the operating temperature calculated here is called the initial value of the operating temperature. The stop temperature is set, for example, to a temperature 1° C. higher than the set temperature. Further, the operating temperature is set, for example, to a temperature that is 1° C. lower than the set temperature.

When the process of step S102 is completed, the processor 11 instructs the indoor unit 300 to set the stop temperature and the operating temperature (step S103). The processor 11 transmits information indicating the stop temperature and information indicating the operating temperature to each of the plurality of indoor units 300 via the communication interface 14. When the process of step S103 is completed, the processor 11 waits until the thermostat of all air conditioners is turned off (step S104). That is, the processor 11 waits until all the indoor units 300 whose settings have been changed stop blowing hot air at least once.

For example, the processor 11 waits for an estimated maximum time required for all the indoor units 300 whose settings have been changed to stop blowing hot air at least once after the set temperature is changed. Alternatively, the processor 11 detects the stop of hot air blowing for each indoor unit 300 by acquiring information indicating the suction temperature from the indoor unit 300 and comparing the acquired suction temperature with a set stop temperature. It's okay. Alternatively, the processor 11 may detect that the blowing of hot air has stopped for each indoor unit 300 by acquiring information indicating that the blowing of hot air has been stopped from the indoor unit 300.

When the process of step S104 is completed, the processor 11 acquires the suction temperature for 15 minutes at a 1-minute cycle (step S105). Specifically, the processor 11 repeats the process of acquiring information indicating the suction temperature from all the indoor units 300 every minute for 15 minutes. When the process of step S105 is completed, the processor 11 calculates the unachieved time ratio for each indoor unit 300 (step S106). That is, the processor 11 calculates, for each indoor unit 300, the percentage of time during which the suction temperature is lower than the set temperature.

When the process of step S106 is completed, the processor 11 determines whether the unachieved time ratio is 70% or more for each indoor unit 300 (step S107). When the unreached time ratio is 70% or more, it is estimated that the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state. If the processor 11 determines that the unattained time ratio is 70% or more (step S107: YES), the processor 11 raises the stop temperature and the operating temperature by 0.5° C. (step S108). In other words, the processor 11 sets a new stop temperature for the indoor unit 300 that is in the early stop state by adding 0.5 degrees Celsius to the current stop temperature, and adds 0.5 degrees Celsius to the current operating temperature. Set the temperature as the new operating temperature.

On the other hand, if the processor 11 determines that the unachieved time ratio is not 70% or more (step S107: NO), it determines whether the unachieved time ratio is 30% or less (step S109). If the unattained time ratio is more than 30% and less than 70%, it is estimated that the indoor unit 300 is in an intermediate state between the normal operating state and the early stop state. When the unachieved time ratio is 30% or less, it is estimated that the indoor unit 300 is in a normal operating state. Therefore, when the processor 11 determines that the unreached time ratio is not 30% or less (step S109: YES), the process returns to step S101.

On the other hand, if the processor 11 determines that the unattained time ratio is 30% or less (step S109: YES), the processor 11 returns the stop temperature and the operating temperature to their initial values (step S110). That is, for the indoor unit 300 in the normal operating state, the processor 11 sets a temperature 1° C. higher than the set temperature as the stop temperature, and sets a temperature 1° C. lower than the set temperature as the operating temperature. When the processor 11 completes the process of step S108 or step S110, it instructs the indoor unit 300 to set the stop temperature and the operating temperature (step S111). The processor 11 transmits information indicating the shutdown temperature and information indicating the operating temperature to each of the indoor units 300 whose settings have been changed, via the communication interface 14. When the process of step S111 is completed, the processor 11 returns the process to step S101.

In this embodiment, the stop temperature and operating temperature of the indoor unit 300 detected to be in the early stop state are raised. Therefore, in this embodiment, even if the indoor unit 300 is maintained in an early stop state, a decrease in the average room temperature is suppressed. As a result, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to realize appropriate temperature adjustment using the plurality of indoor units 300.

In addition, although the indoor unit 300 is often installed in the upper part of the room, basically, warm air tends to be trapped in the upper part and is difficult to flow downward. Therefore, during heating operation, multiple indoor units 300 installed at the upper part of the room suck in warm air from each other, so that even though the room temperature at the lower part of the room has not risen sufficiently, the indoor units 300 There is a high possibility that the hot air will stop blowing out. According to this embodiment, by raising the stop temperature and the operating temperature, even if the early stop state is maintained, a decrease in the average room temperature is suppressed.

Moreover, in this embodiment, it is determined whether the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state or not based on the unattained time ratio. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to appropriately determine whether the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state with a simple configuration.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, when the stop temperature for the first indoor unit is changed, information indicating that the stop temperature for the first indoor unit has been changed is displayed. That is, in this embodiment, when it is detected that the first indoor unit is in the early stop state, it is possible to notify the user that the timing of stopping the hot air blowing is different from normal. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, for example, the user can understand that the timing of stopping the blowing of hot air has been intentionally adjusted, and can prevent the user from misunderstanding it as a malfunction.

(Embodiment 2)
In the first embodiment, an example has been described in which it is determined whether or not the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state by comparing the unreached time ratio and the ratio threshold value. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which it is determined whether or not the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state by comparing the latest average suction temperature with the most frequent value of past average suction temperatures. Hereinafter, the configuration and functions that are different from the first embodiment will be basically explained.

With reference to FIG. 8, the functional configuration of the air conditioning control device 110 according to this embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 8, functionally, the air conditioning control device 110 includes an operation reception section 101, an early stop detection section 102, a temperature change section 104, and an equipment control section 105. In addition to the operation control section 103 and the display section 106, a history information storage section 107 is further provided. The history information storage means corresponds to, for example, the history information storage section 107.

The history information storage unit 107 stores history information indicating the history of the average suction temperature, which is the average value of the suction temperatures detected within a unit time, for each of the plurality of indoor units 300 and for each set temperature. The history information may be any type of information as long as it can identify the history of the average suction temperature. For example, the history information may be information indicating the history of the suction temperature detected every minute for each of the plurality of indoor units 300 and for each set temperature.

The unit time can be adjusted as appropriate. In this embodiment, the unit time is 15 minutes. Furthermore, in determining the average value of the suction temperature, the frequency at which the suction temperature is detected within a unit time can be adjusted as appropriate. In this embodiment, the cycle of detecting the suction temperature is 1 minute. That is, the average suction temperature is the average value of 15 suction temperatures detected for 15 minutes. Further, the period for which the average suction temperature history is accumulated can be adjusted as appropriate. In this embodiment, the history information indicates the history of the average suction temperature for the latest three months.

Here, when the set temperatures are different, the average suction temperatures are basically different. Further, even if the set temperature is the same, if the indoor units 300 are different, the average suction temperature is considered to be different due to the influence of the environment in which the indoor units 300 are installed, for example. Therefore, it is preferable that the history information shows the history of the average suction temperature for each of the plurality of indoor units 300 and for each set temperature. The function of the history information storage unit 107 is realized by the function of the flash memory 12, for example. Note that the history information is accumulated in the history information storage unit 107 by, for example, the processor 11 functioning as a history information storage unit.

In this embodiment, the early stop detection unit 102 determines that the first indoor unit is in the early stop state when the first condition and the second condition are satisfied. The first condition is that the latest average suction temperature has not reached the mode average suction temperature. The latest average suction temperature is the average value of the suction temperatures detected by the first indoor unit within the most recent unit time. Moreover, the mode average suction temperature is a temperature determined from the history information, and is the mode value of the average suction temperature at the current set temperatures of the first indoor unit and the first indoor unit. That is, the mode average suction temperature is the average suction temperature that is the most common among the average suction temperatures for the past three months at the same indoor unit 300 and the same set temperature.

Note that the resolution of the average suction temperature can be adjusted as appropriate. In this embodiment, the resolution of the average suction temperature is 0.1°C. Furthermore, in the case of heating, the fact that the latest average suction temperature has not reached the mode average suction temperature means that the latest average suction temperature is less than the mode average suction temperature. The second condition is that the difference between the latest average suction temperature and the mode average suction temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature difference threshold. The temperature difference threshold value can be adjusted as appropriate. In this embodiment, the temperature difference threshold is 0.5°C. As explained above, in the case of heating, the early stop detection unit 102 determines that the first indoor unit is in the early stop state when the latest average suction temperature is 0.5°C or more lower than the mode average suction temperature. do.

Next, with reference to FIG. 9, the air conditioning control process executed by the air conditioning control device 110 will be described. Note that the same steps as those in the first embodiment are given the same step numbers, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. The processing from step S101 to step S104 is the same as in the first embodiment.

After completing the process of step S104, the processor 11 acquires the latest average suction temperature for each indoor unit 300 (step S205). Specifically, the processor 11 acquires the suction temperature for 15 minutes for each indoor unit 300 at a 1-minute cycle. Then, the processor 11 obtains the average value of the suction temperatures for the latest 15 minutes for each indoor unit 300 as the latest average suction temperature. After completing the process of step S205, the processor 11 compares the latest average suction temperature and the mode average suction temperature for each indoor unit 300 (step S206).

Specifically, first, the processor 11 selects one of the plurality of indoor units 300 as the first indoor unit. Then, the processor 11 extracts, from the history information stored in the flash memory 12, the average suction temperature for the past three months at the first indoor unit and the set temperature currently set for the first indoor unit. Then, the processor 11 determines the mode of the extracted average suction temperature as the mode of the average suction temperature of the first indoor unit. Then, the processor 11 determines the magnitude relationship between the latest average suction temperature of the first indoor unit and the mode average suction temperature of the first indoor unit. The processor 11 repeats these processes using all the indoor units 300 as the first indoor units.

After completing the process of step S206, the processor 11 determines whether the latest average suction temperature is lower than the mode average suction temperature by 0.5° C. or more for each indoor unit 300 (step S207). When the processor 11 determines that the latest average suction temperature is lower than the mode average suction temperature by 0.5° C. or more (step S207: YES), the processor 11 adds the difference between the stop temperature and the operating temperature (step S208).

When the processor 11 determines that the latest average suction temperature is not lower than the mode average suction temperature by 0.5°C or more (step S207: NO), the latest average suction temperature is 0.5 degrees Celsius or more lower than the mode average suction temperature. It is determined whether the temperature is higher than 5° C. (step S209). When the processor 11 determines that the latest average suction temperature is higher than the mode average suction temperature by 0.5° C. or more (step S209: YES), the processor 11 returns the stop temperature and the operating temperature to their initial values (step S210). On the other hand, if the processor 11 determines that the latest average suction temperature is not higher than the mode average suction temperature by 0.5° C. or more (step S209: NO), the process returns to step S101.

Here, the fact that the latest average suction temperature is lower than the mode average suction temperature is considered to mean that the current state is a state where the heating operation is more likely to be stopped than the past average state. Therefore, the processor 11 considers that the indoor unit 300 whose latest average suction temperature is 0.5° C. or more lower than the mode average suction temperature is in an early stop state. Then, for the indoor unit 300 that is considered to be in an early stop state, the processor 11 sets the new stop temperature to the current stop temperature plus the difference between the latest average suction temperature and the mode average suction temperature, The temperature obtained by adding this difference to the current operating temperature is set as the new operating temperature.

Furthermore, the processor 11 considers that the indoor unit 300 whose latest average suction temperature is higher than the mode average suction temperature by 0.5° C. or more is in a normal operating state. Then, the processor 11 returns the stop temperature and the operating temperature of the indoor unit 300 that is considered to be in the normal operation stop state to the initial values. Furthermore, the processor 11 considers that the indoor unit 300 in which the difference between the latest average suction temperature and the mode average suction temperature is less than 0.5°C is in a state intermediate between the early stop state and the normal operating state. , maintain the stop temperature and the operating temperature. When the processor 11 completes the processing in step S208 or step S110, it instructs the indoor unit 300 to set the stop temperature and the operating temperature (step S111).

In this embodiment, the stop temperature and operating temperature of the indoor unit 300 detected to be in the early stop state are raised. Therefore, in this embodiment, similarly to Embodiment 1, a decrease in the average room temperature is suppressed. As a result, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to realize appropriate temperature adjustment using the plurality of indoor units 300.

Further, in the present embodiment, it is determined whether the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state by comparing the latest average suction temperature and the mode average suction temperature. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to appropriately determine whether the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state. Further, in the present embodiment, for the indoor unit 300 detected to be in the early stop state, the stop temperature and the operating temperature are raised by the difference between the latest average suction temperature and the mode average suction temperature. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to quickly raise the average room temperature, which is low due to the early stop, to an appropriate average room temperature according to the set temperature.

(Embodiment 3)
In the second embodiment, an example has been described in which it is determined whether or not the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state by comparing the latest average suction temperature with the most frequent value of past average suction temperatures. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which it is determined whether or not the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state by comparing the latest maximum excess suction temperature with the mode of the past maximum excess suction temperatures. Hereinafter, the configuration and functions that are different from the second embodiment will be basically explained.

In the present embodiment, the history information storage unit 107 stores the maximum excess suction temperature, which is the suction temperature that most exceeds the set temperature among the suction temperatures detected within a unit time, for each of the plurality of indoor units 300 and for each set temperature. Stores history information indicating temperature history. The history information may be any type of information as long as it can identify the history of maximum excess suction temperature. For example, the history information may be information indicating the history of the maximum temperature difference, which is the temperature difference between the maximum excess suction temperature and the set temperature, for each of the plurality of indoor units 300 and for each set temperature.

The unit time can be adjusted as appropriate. In this embodiment, the unit time is 15 minutes. Furthermore, in determining the maximum excess suction temperature, the frequency at which the suction temperature is detected within a unit time can be adjusted as appropriate. In this embodiment, the cycle of detecting the suction temperature is 1 minute. That is, the maximum excess suction temperature is the suction temperature that most exceeds the set temperature among the 15 suction temperatures detected in 15 minutes. In addition, in the case of heating, the fact that the suction temperature exceeds the set temperature means that the suction temperature is higher than the set temperature. Further, the period for which the history of the maximum excess suction temperature is accumulated can be adjusted as appropriate. In this embodiment, the history information indicates the history of the maximum excess suction temperature for the latest three months.

Here, when the set temperatures are different, the maximum excess suction temperatures are basically different. Further, even if the set temperature is the same, if the indoor units 300 are different, the maximum excess suction temperature is considered to be different, for example, due to the influence of the environment in which the indoor units 300 are installed. Therefore, it is preferable that the history information shows the history of the maximum excess suction temperature for each of the plurality of indoor units 300 and for each set temperature. The function of the history information storage unit 107 is realized by the function of the flash memory 12, for example. Note that the history information is accumulated in the history information storage unit 107 by, for example, the processor 11 functioning as a history information storage unit.

In this embodiment, the early stop detection unit 102 determines that the first indoor unit is in the early stop state when the third condition and the fourth condition are satisfied. The third condition is that the latest maximum excess suction temperature has not reached the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature. The latest maximum excess suction temperature is the suction temperature that most exceeds the set temperature among the suction temperatures detected by the first indoor unit within the most recent unit time. Moreover, the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature is a temperature determined from the history information, and is the most frequent value of the maximum excess suction temperature at the current set temperatures of the first indoor unit and the first indoor unit. That is, the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature is the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature among the maximum excess suction temperatures for the past three months at the same indoor unit 300 and the same set temperature.

Note that the resolution of the maximum excess suction temperature can be adjusted as appropriate. In this embodiment, the resolution of the maximum excess suction temperature is 0.1°C. Furthermore, in the case of heating, the fact that the latest maximum excess suction temperature has not reached the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature means that the latest maximum excess suction temperature is less than the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature. The fourth condition is that the difference between the latest maximum excess suction temperature and the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature difference threshold. The temperature difference threshold value can be adjusted as appropriate. In this embodiment, the temperature difference threshold is 0.5°C. As explained above, in the case of heating, the early stop detection unit 102 determines that the first indoor unit is in an early stop state when the latest maximum excess suction temperature is 0.5°C or more lower than the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature. It is determined that

Next, with reference to FIG. 10, the air conditioning control process executed by the air conditioning control device 110 will be described. Note that the same steps as those in the first embodiment are given the same step numbers, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. The processing from step S101 to step S104 is the same as in the first embodiment.

After completing the process of step S104, the processor 11 acquires the latest maximum excess suction temperature for each indoor unit 300 (step S305). Specifically, the processor 11 acquires the suction temperature for 15 minutes for each indoor unit 300 at a 1-minute cycle. Then, for each indoor unit 300, the processor 11 determines the suction temperature that exceeds the set temperature the most among the suction temperatures for the latest 15 minutes as the latest maximum excess suction temperature. After completing the process of step S305, the processor 11 compares the latest maximum excess suction temperature and the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature for each indoor unit 300 (step S306).

Specifically, first, the processor 11 selects one of the plurality of indoor units 300 as the first indoor unit. Then, the processor 11 extracts, from the history information stored in the flash memory 12, the first indoor unit and the maximum excess suction temperature for the past three months at the set temperature currently set for the first indoor unit. Then, the processor 11 determines the most frequent value of the extracted maximum excess suction temperatures as the most frequent maximum excessive suction temperature of the first indoor unit. Then, the processor 11 determines the magnitude relationship between the latest maximum excess suction temperature of the first indoor unit and the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature of the first indoor unit. The processor 11 repeats these processes using all the indoor units 300 as the first indoor units.

After completing the process of step S306, the processor 11 determines whether the latest maximum excess suction temperature is lower than the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature by 0.5° C. or more for each indoor unit 300 (step S307). When the processor 11 determines that the latest average suction temperature is lower than the mode average suction temperature by 0.5° C. or more (step S307: YES), the processor 11 adds the difference between the stop temperature and the operating temperature (step S308).

If the processor 11 determines that the latest maximum excess suction temperature is not lower than the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature by 0.5°C or more (step S307: NO), the latest maximum excess suction temperature becomes the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature. It is determined whether or not the temperature is higher than 0.5° C. (step S309). When the processor 11 determines that the latest maximum excess suction temperature is higher than the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature by 0.5°C or more (step S309: YES), the processor 11 returns the stop temperature and the operating temperature to their initial values (step S310). ). On the other hand, when the processor 11 determines that the latest maximum excess suction temperature is not higher than the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature by 0.5° C. or more (step S309: NO), the process returns to step S101.

Here, the fact that the latest maximum excess suction temperature is lower than the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature means that the heating operation is more likely to be stopped in the current state than in the past average state. It will be done. Therefore, the processor 11 considers that the indoor unit 300 whose latest maximum excess suction temperature is 0.5° C. or more lower than the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature is in an early stop state. Then, for the indoor unit 300 that is considered to be in an early stop state, the processor 11 sets the temperature obtained by adding the difference between the latest maximum excess suction temperature and the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature to the current stop temperature as a new stop temperature. However, the temperature obtained by adding this difference to the current operating temperature is set as the new operating temperature.

Furthermore, the processor 11 considers that the indoor unit 300 whose latest maximum excess suction temperature is higher than the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature by 0.5° C. or more is in a normal operating state. Then, the processor 11 returns the stop temperature and the operating temperature of the indoor unit 300 that is considered to be in the normal operation stop state to the initial values. Further, the processor 11 considers that the indoor unit 300 for which the difference between the latest maximum excess suction temperature and the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature is less than 0.5°C is in a state intermediate between the early stop state and the normal operating state. In addition, the shutdown temperature and operating temperature are maintained. When the processor 11 completes the processing in step S308 or step S110, it instructs the indoor unit 300 to set the stop temperature and the operating temperature (step S111).

In this embodiment, the stop temperature and operating temperature of the indoor unit 300 detected to be in the early stop state are raised. Therefore, in this embodiment, similarly to Embodiment 1, a decrease in the average room temperature is suppressed. As a result, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to realize appropriate temperature adjustment using the plurality of indoor units 300.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, it is determined whether the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state by comparing the latest maximum excess suction temperature and the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to appropriately determine whether the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state. Further, in this embodiment, for the indoor unit 300 detected to be in an early stop state, the stop temperature and the operating temperature are raised by the difference between the latest maximum excess suction temperature and the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature. . Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to quickly raise the average room temperature, which is low due to the early stop, to an appropriate average room temperature according to the set temperature.

(Embodiment 4)
In the first embodiment, an example has been described in which the stop temperature and operating temperature of the indoor unit 300 detected to be in the early stop state are adjusted. As described above, the early stop state is thought to occur when the plurality of indoor units 300 mutually suck in the blown wind. Therefore, when the same set temperature is set for the plurality of indoor units 300, that is, when the same stop temperature and the same operating temperature are set, the plurality of indoor units 300 simultaneously It is thought that it will come to an early stop state. Therefore, when a plurality of indoor units 300 enter the early stop state at the same time, the early stop state is likely to be resolved by changing the set temperature of at least one indoor unit 300.

Hereinafter, in this embodiment, an example will be described in which, when it is detected that a plurality of indoor units 300 are in an early stop state, an attempt is made to resolve the early stop state by increasing the set temperature of at least one indoor unit 300. . Hereinafter, the configuration and functions that are different from the first embodiment will be basically explained.

First, the early stop detection unit 102 detects that a plurality of first indoor units among the plurality of indoor units 300 are in an early stop state, which is a state in which the blowing of air to bring the room temperature to the set temperature is stopped early. Detect.

In addition, when the early stop detection unit 102 detects that the plurality of first indoor units are in the early stop state, the temperature change unit 104 adjusts the temperature to a temperature based on the set temperature and at which the air blowing is stopped. The stop temperature for the second indoor unit among the plurality of first indoor units is changed. That is, the temperature change unit 104 changes the stop temperature for the second indoor units that are some of the first indoor units among the plurality of first indoor units detected to be in the early stop state. The number of second indoor units whose stop temperature is changed may be one, or two or more. In this embodiment, the number of second indoor units is two.

Note that there are two possible methods for changing the stop temperature. The first method is to change the stop temperature by changing the set temperature. This is because the stop temperature is set based on the set temperature, so if the set temperature is changed, the stop temperature is also changed. The first method is effective, for example, when the indoor unit 300 sets the stop temperature for the indoor unit 300 based on the set temperature set for the indoor unit 300. The second method is to change the stop temperature without changing the set temperature. The second method is effective, for example, when the air conditioning control device 100 sets the stop temperature for the indoor unit 300 based on the set temperature for the indoor unit 300. In this embodiment, the first method will mainly be explained.

The device control unit 105 controls the second indoor unit using the stop temperature changed by the temperature change unit 104. For example, the device control unit 105 transmits information indicating the stop temperature changed by the temperature change unit 104 to the second indoor unit via the communication network 600.

Here, it is preferable that the temperature change unit 104 switches the second indoor unit whose stop temperature is to be changed in accordance with a predetermined order every time a predetermined time elapses. That is, the temperature change unit 104 rotates the second indoor unit whose stop temperature is to be changed among the plurality of first indoor units. Rotation can be expected to have the effect of reducing imbalances in room temperature indoors. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the second indoor unit is changed every 10 minutes.

Here, when the early stop detection unit 102 detects that the plurality of first indoor units are in an early stop state, the temperature change unit 104 controls the second indoor units so that the control amount of the second indoor units increases. The set temperature can be changed. In the case of heating, changing the set temperature for the second indoor unit so that the control amount of the second indoor unit increases means increasing the set temperature for the second indoor unit.

Alternatively, when the early stop detection unit 102 detects that the plurality of first indoor units are in an early stop state, the temperature change unit 104 adjusts the second indoor units so that the difference between the set temperature and the stop temperature becomes large. The stop temperature can be changed. In the case of heating, changing the stop temperature for the second indoor unit so that the difference between the set temperature and the stop temperature increases means raising the stop temperature for the second indoor unit.

Next, with reference to FIG. 11, the screen 720 displayed by the air conditioning control device 100 will be described. Screen 720 is a screen that presents the status of each of the plurality of indoor units 300. Specifically, the screen 720 displays, for each indoor unit 300, an image 701 showing the operating state, an image 702 showing the set temperature, an image 703 showing the temperature increased by the stop temperature, and an image 703 showing the indoor unit 300 to be rotated. This is a screen that presents a frame 704 showing a group of , and an image 705 showing that the indoor unit 300 that raises the stop temperature is being rotated.

The screen 720 shows ID. It is shown that eight indoor units 300 with IDs 10 to 17 are in the early stop state, and these eight indoor units 300 are included in the rotation target group. In addition, the screen 720 shows that the indoor unit 300 whose stop temperature is currently raised by 3° C. is displayed with ID. 10 indoor units 300 and ID. It is shown that there are two indoor units 300 and 14 indoor units 300. Note that the order in which the stop temperature is raised is determined by, for example, ID. 10, ID. 11,..., ID17, ID. The order is 11, . . . .

Note that it is preferable that the group to be rotated includes indoor units 300 connected to the same outdoor unit 200. That is, it is preferable that the plurality of indoor units 300 connected to different outdoor units 200 do not belong to the same group. This is because the plurality of indoor units 300 connected to different outdoor units 200 are unlikely to mutually inhale the blown wind. Further, it is preferable that indoor units 300 that are not in an early stop state are not included in the rotation.

Next, screen 730 displayed by remote controller 400 will be described with reference to FIG. 12. Screen 730 is a screen that presents the status of indoor unit 300. The screen 730 displays an image 711 showing the operating state, an image 712 showing the set temperature, an image 713 showing the temperature by which the stop temperature has been increased, and an image 713 showing that the indoor unit 300 whose stop temperature is being increased has been switched by rotation. This screen presents an image 719 shown in FIG. Note that the remote controller 400 can obtain various types of information presented on the screen 730 from the indoor unit 300 via the communication interface described above.

Next, with reference to FIG. 13, the air conditioning control process executed by the air conditioning control device 100 will be described. Note that the same steps as those in the first embodiment are given the same step numbers, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. The processing from step S101 to step S107 and the processing at step S109 are the same as in the first embodiment.

If the processor 11 determines that the unachieved time ratio is 70% or more (step S107: YES), it adds it to rotation targets (step S408). In other words, the processor 11 considers the indoor unit 300 whose unachieved time ratio is 70% or more to be in an early stop state, and adds it to rotation targets. Note that the group to be rotated includes a plurality of indoor units 300 connected to the same outdoor unit 200.

Further, if the processor 11 determines that the unreached time ratio is 30% or less (step S109: YES), the processor 11 excludes it from rotation targets (step S410). In other words, the processor 11 considers indoor units 300 whose unachieved time ratio is 30% or less to be in a normal operating state, and excludes them from rotation targets. On the other hand, if the processor 11 determines that the unreached time ratio is not 30% or less (step S109: NO), the process returns to step S101.

After completing the processing in step S408 or step S410, the processor 11 executes rotation control to raise the set temperature by 3° C. (step S411). The method of executing this rotation control can be adjusted as appropriate. For example, the air conditioning control device 100 may play a main role and switch the indoor unit 300 that raises the set temperature every time a predetermined time elapses. For example, the processor 11 first processes the ID. 10 indoor units 300 and ID. 14 indoor unit 300 is instructed to raise the set temperature by 3°C. In this case, ID. 10 indoor units 300 and ID. No. 14 indoor unit 300 raises the stop temperature and operating temperature by 3° C. in response to the set temperature being raised by 3° C.

Then, after 10 minutes, the processor 11 updates the ID. 10 indoor units 300 and ID. The indoor unit 300 of No. 14 is instructed to return the set temperature to its original value, that is, to lower the set temperature by 3°C. In this case, ID. 10 indoor units 300 and ID. In response to returning the set temperature to the original temperature, the indoor unit 300 No. 14 lowers the stop temperature and the operating temperature by 3° C. and returns them to the original values. Further, the processor 11 has ID. 11 indoor unit 300 and ID. The indoor unit 300 of No. 15 is instructed to raise the set temperature by 3°C. In this case, ID. 11 indoor unit 300 and ID. Indoor unit 300 No. 15 raises the stop temperature and operating temperature by 3° C. in response to the set temperature being raised by 3° C. Thereafter, the processor 11 executes rotation control using the same procedure.

Note that if the indoor unit 300 has a function of automatically switching the set temperature, stop temperature, and operating temperature according to the schedule corresponding to the rotation control, the processor 11 controls the rotation control for the indoor unit 300 to be rotated. All you have to do is instruct it to run. When the processor 11 completes the process in step S411, it returns the process to step S101.

In this embodiment, when it is detected that a plurality of indoor units 300 are in an early stop state, the stop temperature of some of the indoor units 300 is raised. As a result, it is possible to ensure that the indoor unit 300 does not stop prematurely, and to prevent the average room temperature from becoming too low relative to the set temperature. Further, in this embodiment, the indoor unit 300 whose stop temperature is raised is rotated. Therefore, a reduction in room temperature deviation can be expected.

(Embodiment 5)
In the fourth embodiment, an example has been described in which, when it is detected that a plurality of indoor units 300 are in an early stop state, an attempt is made to eliminate the early stop state by increasing the set temperature of at least one indoor unit 300. Hereinafter, in this embodiment, an example will be described in which, when it is detected that a plurality of indoor units 300 are in an early stop state, an attempt is made to resolve the early stop state by lowering the set temperature of at least one indoor unit 300. . Hereinafter, the configuration and functions that are different from the fourth embodiment will be basically explained.

When the early stop detection unit 102 detects that the plurality of first indoor units are in an early stop state, the temperature change unit 104 changes the set temperature for the second indoor unit so that the control amount of the second indoor unit is reduced. can be changed. In the case of heating, changing the set temperature for the second indoor unit so that the control amount of the second indoor unit decreases means lowering the set temperature for the second indoor unit.

Alternatively, when the early stop detection unit 102 detects that the plurality of first indoor units are in an early stop state, the temperature change unit 104 adjusts the second indoor units so that the difference between the set temperature and the stop temperature becomes small. The stop temperature can be changed. In the case of heating, changing the stop temperature for the second indoor unit so that the difference between the set temperature and the stop temperature becomes smaller means lowering the stop temperature for the second indoor unit.

Next, with reference to FIG. 14, the air conditioning control process executed by the air conditioning control device 100 will be described. Note that the same steps as those in the first embodiment are given the same step numbers, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. The processing from step S101 to step S107 and the processing at step S109 are the same as in the first embodiment.

When the processor 11 determines that the unachieved time ratio is 70% or more (step S107: YES), it adds it to rotation targets (step S508). In other words, the processor 11 considers the indoor unit 300 whose unachieved time ratio is 70% or more to be in an early stop state, and adds it to rotation targets. Note that the group to be rotated includes a plurality of indoor units 300 connected to the same outdoor unit 200.

Further, if the processor 11 determines that the unreached time ratio is 30% or less (step S109: YES), the processor 11 excludes it from rotation targets (step S510). In other words, the processor 11 considers indoor units 300 whose unachieved time ratio is 30% or less to be in a normal operating state, and excludes them from rotation targets. On the other hand, if the processor 11 determines that the unreached time ratio is not 30% or less (step S109: NO), the process returns to step S101.

After completing the processing in step S508 or step S510, the processor 11 executes rotation control to lower the set temperature by 1° C. (step S511). The method of executing this rotation control can be adjusted as appropriate. For example, the air conditioning control device 100 may play a main role and switch the indoor unit 300 that lowers the set temperature every time a predetermined time elapses. For example, the processor 11 first processes the ID. 10 indoor units 300 and ID. 14 indoor unit 300 is instructed to lower the set temperature by 1°C. In this case, ID. 10 indoor units 300 and ID. No. 14 indoor unit 300 lowers the stop temperature and operating temperature by 1° C. in response to the set temperature being lowered by 1° C.

Then, after 10 minutes, the processor 11 updates the ID. 10 indoor units 300 and ID. The controller instructs the indoor unit 300 of No. 14 to return the set temperature to its original value, that is, to raise the set temperature by 1°C. In this case, ID. 10 indoor units 300 and ID. In response to returning the set temperature to the original temperature, the indoor unit 300 No. 14 raises the stop temperature and the operating temperature by 1° C. and returns them to the original values. Further, the processor 11 has ID. 11 indoor unit 300 and ID. The indoor unit 300 of No. 15 is instructed to lower the set temperature by 1°C. In this case, ID. 11 indoor unit 300 and ID. No. 15 indoor unit 300 lowers the stop temperature and operating temperature by 1° C. in response to the set temperature being lowered by 1° C. Thereafter, the processor 11 executes rotation control using the same procedure.

Note that if the indoor unit 300 has a function of automatically switching the set temperature, stop temperature, and operating temperature according to the schedule corresponding to the rotation control, the processor 11 executes the rotation control for the indoor unit 300 to be rotated. All you have to do is instruct. When the processor 11 completes the process in step S511, it returns the process to step S101.

In this embodiment, when it is detected that a plurality of indoor units 300 are in an early stop state, the stop temperature of some of the indoor units 300 is lowered. As a result, multiple indoor units 300 are prevented from blowing hot air at the same time, multiple indoor units 300 are prevented from coming to an early stop state, and the average room temperature is prevented from becoming too low relative to the set temperature. be able to. Further, in this embodiment, the indoor unit 300 whose stop temperature is raised is rotated. Therefore, a reduction in room temperature deviation can be expected.

(Embodiment 6)
In the first embodiment, an example has been described in which the air conditioning control device 100 is caused to execute the process of raising the stop temperature when early stop is detected. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the indoor unit 300 is caused to execute a process of raising the stop temperature when an early stop is detected. Hereinafter, the configuration and functions that are different from the first embodiment will be basically explained.

As shown in FIG. 15, in the present embodiment, the indoor unit 300 functionally includes an air conditioning unit 304 that includes an operation reception unit 301, a room temperature detection unit 302, an early stop detection unit 303, and a temperature change unit 305. , a display section 306 , and a communication section 307 . The early stop detection means corresponds to, for example, the early stop detection section 303. The air conditioning means corresponds to, for example, the air conditioning section 304. The temperature changing means corresponds to the temperature changing unit 305, for example. The display means corresponds to the display unit 306, for example.

The operation accepting unit 301 accepts operations by the user. For example, the operation reception unit 101 receives from the user an operation to instruct to start heating, an operation to instruct to stop heating, an operation to instruct to increase the set temperature, an operation to instruct to lower the set temperature, etc. The functions of the operation reception unit 301 are realized by, for example, the functions of a touch screen.

Room temperature detection section 302 detects room temperature. Specifically, the room temperature detection unit 302 sucks air around the indoor unit 300 and detects the suction temperature, which is the temperature of the sucked air, as the room temperature. The function of the room temperature detection unit 302 is realized by, for example, the function of a thermometer.

The early stop detection unit 303 detects that the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state. The early stop detection unit 303 basically detects that the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state using the same method as the early stop detection unit 102. For example, the early stop detection unit 303 detects that the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state by comparing the unreached time ratio and the ratio threshold. The function of the early stop detection unit 303 is realized by, for example, the function of a processor.

The air conditioning unit 304 performs indoor air conditioning. For example, in the case of heating, the air conditioning unit 304 starts blowing hot air when it detects that the suction temperature is below the operating temperature, and stops blowing hot air when it detects that the suction temperature is above the stop temperature. . The functions of the air conditioning unit 304 are realized by, for example, a processor, an indoor heat exchanger, and an indoor blower working together.

When the early stop detection unit 303 detects that the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state, the temperature change unit 305 changes the stop temperature for the indoor unit 300 so that the difference between the stop temperature and the set temperature increases. . The temperature change unit 305 basically changes the stop temperature using the same method as the temperature change unit 104. The functions of the temperature change unit 305 are realized by, for example, the functions of a processor.

The display unit 306 displays various screens. For example, the display unit 306 displays a screen presenting the operating mode and set temperature. On this screen, the display unit 306 may present that the stop temperature has been raised because the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state, or may indicate by how many degrees centigrade the stop temperature has been raised. The functions of the display unit 306 are realized by, for example, a processor and a touch screen working together.

The communication unit 307 communicates with other devices. For example, the communication unit 307 communicates with the air conditioning control device and the outdoor unit 200 via the communication network 600. Further, the communication unit 307 communicates with the remote controller 400. The functions of the communication unit 307 are realized by cooperation between a processor and a communication interface.

In this embodiment, the indoor unit 300 itself detects that the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state, and when it detects that the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state, the stop temperature is raised. Therefore, in this embodiment, even if the early stop state is maintained, a decrease in the average room temperature is suppressed. Further, in this embodiment, there is no need for another device that detects the early stop state and avoids the adverse effects caused by the early stop state.

(Embodiment 7)
In Embodiment 1-5, an example was described in which the air conditioning control device 100, which is one device, is caused to execute air conditioning control processing. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which an air conditioning control system 1000 including a plurality of devices is caused to execute air conditioning control processing. Note that the air conditioning control system 1000 can be considered as a cloud that provides air conditioning setting services. Hereinafter, the configuration and functions that are different from the first embodiment will be basically explained.

As shown in FIG. 16, the air conditioning control system 1000 includes a server 510, a database 520, and a terminal device 530. Server 510, database 520, and terminal device 530 are interconnected via communication network 610. The communication network 610 is a high area network constructed outside the home, and is, for example, the Internet.

Server 510 is a device that forms the core of air conditioning control system 1000. The server 510 executes main processing of air conditioning control processing. The server 510 is connected to the outdoor unit 200 and the indoor unit 300 via the communication network 610 and controls the outdoor unit 200 and the indoor unit 300 via the communication network 610. The server 510 includes a processor, a hard disk, a keyboard, a mouse, a communication interface, and the like.

The database 520 stores various information related to air conditioning control processing. For example, database 520 stores historical information. The database 520 includes a processor, a hard disk, a communication interface, and the like. The terminal device 530 is a device that functions as a user interface for the air conditioning control system 1000. The terminal device 530 includes a processor, a flash memory, a touch screen, a communication interface, and the like.

Next, the functions of the air conditioning control system 1000 will be described with reference to FIG. 17. The air conditioning control system 1000 functionally includes a history information storage section 1001, an early stop detection section 1002, a temperature change section 1003, a device control section 1004, and a display section 1005. The history information storage means corresponds to, for example, the history information storage unit 1001. The early stop detection means corresponds to, for example, the early stop detection unit 1002. The temperature changing means corresponds to, for example, the temperature changing unit 1003. The device control means corresponds to, for example, the device control section 1004. The display means corresponds to the display unit 1005, for example.

The history information storage unit 1001 stores history information indicating the history of the average suction temperature for each of the plurality of indoor units 300 and each set temperature, and history information indicating the history of the maximum excess suction temperature for each of the plurality of indoor units 300 and each set temperature. and remember. That is, the history information storage section 1001 has the same function as the history information storage section 107. The functions of the history information storage unit 1001 are realized by, for example, the functions of the database 520.

The early stop detection unit 1002 determines whether each of the plurality of indoor units 300 is in the early stop state, and detects that at least one first indoor unit among the plurality of indoor units 300 is in the early stop state. do. For example, the early stop detection unit 1002 compares the unattained time ratio with a percentage threshold, compares the latest average suction temperature with the most frequent average suction temperature, or compares the latest maximum excess suction temperature with the most frequent maximum excessive suction temperature. Based on the comparison, it is determined whether each of the plurality of indoor units 300 is in an early stop state. That is, the early stop detection section 1002 has the same function as the early stop detection section 102. The function of the early stop detection unit 1002 is realized by the function of the server 510, for example.

When the early stop detection unit 1002 detects that the first indoor unit is in an early stop state, the temperature change unit 1003 changes the stop temperature for the first indoor unit so that the difference between the stop temperature and the set temperature increases. change. Alternatively, when the early stop detection unit 1002 detects that the plurality of first indoor units are in the early stop state, the temperature change unit 1003 changes the temperature of the first indoor unit from the plurality of first indoor units so that the stop temperature is changed. 2 Change the stop temperature or set temperature for the indoor unit. In other words, the temperature change unit 1003 has the same function as the temperature change unit 104. The functions of the temperature change unit 1003 are realized by the functions of the server 510, for example.

The device control unit 1004 controls the first indoor unit or the second indoor unit using the stop temperature changed by the temperature change unit 1003. For example, the device control unit 1004 transmits information indicating the stop temperature or set temperature changed by the temperature change unit 1003 to the first indoor unit or the second indoor unit. In other words, the device control section 1004 has the same function as the device control section 105. The functions of the device control unit 1004 are realized by the functions of the server 510, for example.

The display unit 1005 displays various screens. The display unit 1005 displays, for example, a screen that presents the operating mode and temperature setting for each indoor unit 300. On this screen, the display unit 1005 may present that the stop temperature has been raised because the indoor unit 300 is in an early stop state, or may indicate by how many degrees centigrade the stop temperature has been raised. That is, the display section 1005 has the same function as the display section 106. The functions of the display unit 1005 are realized, for example, by the server 510 and the terminal device 530 working together.

In this embodiment, the stop temperature and operating temperature of the indoor unit 300 detected to be in the early stop state are raised. Alternatively, in the present embodiment, for the second indoor unit among the plurality of first indoor units detected to be in an early stop state, the stop temperature or set temperature is changed so that the stop temperature is changed. be done. Therefore, in this embodiment, a decrease in the average room temperature is suppressed. As a result, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to realize appropriate temperature adjustment using the plurality of indoor units 300.

(Modified example)
Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, various modifications and applications are possible in carrying out the present invention.

In the present invention, it is arbitrary to adopt which part of the configuration, function, and operation described in the above embodiments. Furthermore, in the present invention, in addition to the configurations, functions, and operations described above, further configurations, functions, and operations may be employed. Furthermore, the configurations, functions, and operations described in the above embodiments can be freely combined.

For example, in Embodiment 4-6, an example was described in which it is detected that the first indoor unit is in an early stop state using the method of Embodiment 1. In Embodiment 4-6, it may be detected that the first indoor unit is in an early stop state using the methods of Embodiments 2 and 3. In the fourth and fifth embodiments, an example was described in which there are two second indoor units whose stop temperatures are changed. Of course, the number of second indoor units whose stop temperature is changed may be one, or three or more.

In the fourth and fifth embodiments, an example has been described in which the second indoor unit whose stop temperature is changed is switched by rotation. The second indoor unit whose stop temperature is changed does not need to be switched. For example, when an air conditioning system is provided with a human sensor, it is preferable that the first indoor unit in which a person is not detected among the plurality of first indoor units is determined as the second indoor unit. According to such a configuration, it can be expected that a decrease in comfort due to a change in the stop temperature is suppressed.

In Embodiment 1-7, an example has been described in which, when it is detected that the first indoor unit performing heating operation is in an early stop state, the stop temperature of the first indoor unit is changed. When it is detected that the first indoor unit that performs cooling operation is in an early stop state, the stop temperature of the first indoor unit may be changed. For example, in the first embodiment, when it is detected that the first indoor unit that performs cooling operation is in an early stop state, the stop temperature of the first indoor unit may be lowered.

Embodiment 1-7 basically describes an example in which, when it is detected that the first indoor unit is in an early stop state, the stop temperature and operating temperature of the first indoor unit are changed. When it is detected that the first indoor unit is in an early stop state, the stop temperature of the first indoor unit may be changed without changing the operating temperature. By changing at least the stop temperature, it is possible to expect an effect of increasing the average room temperature or an effect of making it difficult for an early stop state to occur.

By applying an operation program that defines the operation of the air conditioning control device 100, 110 according to the present invention to an existing personal computer or information terminal device, the personal computer or the like is made to function as the air conditioning control device 100, 110 according to the present invention. It is also possible. Furthermore, the distribution method of such a program is arbitrary; for example, it may be distributed by storing it in a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read-Only Memory), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), or a memory card. or distributed via a communication network such as the Internet.

The present invention is capable of various embodiments and modifications without departing from the broad spirit and scope of the invention. Moreover, the embodiments described above are for explaining the present invention, and do not limit the scope of the present invention. That is, the scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than the embodiments. Various modifications made within the scope of the claims and the meaning of the invention equivalent thereto are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

The present invention is applicable to an air conditioning system that includes an outdoor unit and a plurality of indoor units.

11 processor, 12 flash memory, 13 touch screen, 14 communication interface, 100, 110 air conditioning control device, 101, 301 operation reception unit, 102, 303, 1002 early stop detection unit, 103 operation control unit, 104, 305, 1003 temperature Change unit, 105, 1004 Equipment control unit, 106, 306, 1005 Display unit, 107, 1001 History information storage unit, 200, 200A, 200B Outdoor unit, 300, 300AA, 300AB, 300AC, 300BA, 300BB, 300BC Indoor unit, 302 room temperature detection unit, 304 air conditioning unit, 307 communication unit, 400,400AA, 400AB, 400AC, 400BA, 400BB, 400BC remote controller, 510 server, 520 database, 530 terminal device, 600,610 communication network, 700,710,720 , 730 Screen, 701, 702, 703, 705, 711, 712, 713, 719 Image, 704 Frame, 714, 715, 716, 717, 718 Button, 1000 Air conditioning control system

Claims (13)

An air conditioning control device connected to a plurality of indoor units connected to an outdoor unit via a communication network,
early stop detection means for detecting that a plurality of first indoor units among the plurality of indoor units are in an early stop state, which is a state in which the blowing of air to bring the room temperature to a set temperature is stopped early;
When the early stop detection means detects that the plurality of first indoor units are in the early stop state, a stop temperature is a temperature based on the set temperature and is a temperature at which the blowing of the wind is stopped. temperature changing means for changing the stop temperature for a second indoor unit among the plurality of first indoor units;
equipment control means for controlling the second indoor unit using the stop temperature changed by the temperature change means;
Air conditioning control equipment. The temperature changing means switches the second indoor unit to change the stop temperature in accordance with a predetermined order every time a predetermined time elapses.
The air conditioning control device according to claim 1 . The temperature changing means changes the temperature of the second indoor units so that when the early stop detection means detects that the plurality of first indoor units are in the early stop state, the control amount of the second indoor units increases. changing the stop temperature for the second indoor unit by changing the set temperature for the second indoor unit;
The air conditioning control device according to claim 1 or 2 . The temperature changing means changes the temperature of the second indoor units so that when the early stop detection means detects that the plurality of first indoor units are in the early stop state, the control amount of the second indoor units is reduced. changing the stop temperature for the second indoor unit by changing the set temperature for the second indoor unit;
The air conditioning control device according to claim 1 or 2 . The temperature changing means adjusts the second indoor unit so that the difference between the set temperature and the stop temperature increases when the early stop detecting means detects that the plurality of first indoor units are in the early stop state. changing the stop temperature for the indoor unit;
The air conditioning control device according to claim 1 or 2 . When the early stop detection means detects that the plurality of first indoor units are in the early stop state, the temperature change means adjusts the second indoor unit so that the difference between the set temperature and the stop temperature becomes small. changing the stop temperature for the indoor unit;
The air conditioning control device according to claim 1 or 2 . The early stop detection means detects an underachievement which is a percentage of the time during which the suction temperature detected by the first indoor unit does not reach the set temperature set for the first indoor unit in the most recent unit time. If the time ratio is equal to or greater than a ratio threshold, determining that the first indoor unit is in the early stop state;
The air conditioning control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 . Further comprising a history information storage means for storing history information indicating a history of an average suction temperature, which is an average value of suction temperatures detected within a unit time, for each of the plurality of indoor units and each of the set temperatures,
The early stop detection means is configured to detect the first indoor unit and the first indoor unit, in which the latest average suction temperature, which is the average value of the suction temperatures detected by the first indoor unit within the most recent unit time, is determined from the history information. The most recent average suction temperature and the most recent average suction temperature have not reached the most frequent value of the average suction temperature at the set temperature set in the first indoor unit, and If the difference is greater than or equal to a temperature difference threshold, determining that the first indoor unit is in the early stop state;
The air conditioning control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 . For each of the plurality of indoor units and each of the set temperatures, history information indicating a history of a maximum excess suction temperature, which is the suction temperature that exceeds the set temperature most among the suction temperatures detected within a unit time, is stored. further comprising historical information storage means,
The early stop detection means detects a suction temperature that most exceeds the set temperature set in the first indoor unit among the suction temperatures detected by the first indoor unit within the most recent unit time. A certain latest maximum excess suction temperature is the most frequent maximum excess that is the most frequent value of the maximum excess suction temperature at the first indoor unit and the set temperature set for the first indoor unit, which is determined from the history information. If the suction temperature has not been reached and the difference between the latest maximum excess suction temperature and the most frequent maximum excess suction temperature is equal to or higher than a temperature difference threshold, it is determined that the first indoor unit is in the early stop state. do,
The air conditioning control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 . An air conditioning control system connected to multiple indoor units connected to an outdoor unit via a communication network,
early stop detection means for detecting that a plurality of first indoor units among the plurality of indoor units are in an early stop state, which is a state in which the blowing of air is stopped early in order to bring the room temperature to a set temperature;
When the early stop detection means detects that the plurality of first indoor units are in the early stop state, a stop temperature is a temperature based on the set temperature and is a temperature at which the blowing of the wind is stopped. temperature changing means for changing the stop temperature for a second indoor unit among the plurality of first indoor units;
equipment control means for controlling the second indoor unit using the stop temperature changed by the temperature change means;
Air conditioning control system. Further comprising display means for displaying information indicating that the stop temperature for the second indoor unit has been changed when the temperature change means has changed the stop temperature for the second indoor unit.
The air conditioning control system according to claim 10 . An air conditioning control method for controlling multiple indoor units connected to an outdoor unit, the method comprising:
Detecting that a plurality of first indoor units among the plurality of indoor units are in an early stop state, which is a state in which blowing of air to bring the room temperature to a set temperature is stopped early;
When it is detected that the plurality of first indoor units are in the early stop state, the stop temperature is a temperature based on the set temperature and is a temperature at which the blowing of the wind is stopped; changing the stop temperature for the second indoor unit among the first indoor units;
Air conditioning control method. A computer that is connected via a communication network to multiple indoor units that are connected to an outdoor unit.
When the plurality of first indoor units among the plurality of indoor units are in an early stop state, which is a state in which the blowing of air to bring the room temperature to the set temperature is stopped early, the temperature is set at a temperature based on the set temperature. temperature changing means for changing the stop temperature for a second indoor unit among the plurality of first indoor units, the stop temperature being a temperature at which the blowing of the wind is stopped;
functioning as equipment control means for controlling the second indoor unit using the stop temperature changed by the temperature change means;
program.

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