WO2024005202A1

WO2024005202A1 - Air-conditioning device, management device, and program

Info

Publication number: WO2024005202A1
Application number: PCT/JP2023/024484
Authority: WO
Inventors: 慎介井川; 勝則村田
Original assignee: ダイキン工業株式会社
Priority date: 2022-06-30
Filing date: 2023-06-30
Publication date: 2024-01-04
Also published as: JP2024007491A

Abstract

An air-conditioning device (10) comprises a notification unit (41) that notifies a user of first information when the power supply to the air-conditioning device (10) is restarted after a predetermined period of time or more has elapsed since the power supply to the air-conditioning device (10) was stopped.

Description

Air conditioning equipment, management equipment, and programs

The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner, a management device, and a program.

The air conditioner disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a refrigerant leak sensor. When power supply from the outside to the air conditioner is stopped, the liquid crystal display device of the remote controller displays information indicating that refrigerant leakage cannot be detected.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-191506

If the power supply to the air conditioner is stopped for a relatively long time, the risk of refrigerant leakage increases. In this case, the refrigerant leakage sensor may not function or operations to prevent refrigerant leakage may not be performed. For example, during the intermediate period, the air conditioner (10) may not be used for a long time, and the user may unplug the air conditioner for a long period of time to save energy. In this case, the risk due to refrigerant leakage is considerably higher. Therefore, it is desirable to inform the user of the risk of refrigerant leakage over such a relatively long period of time.

The purpose of the present disclosure is to enable the user to recognize the risks when power is not supplied to the air conditioner for a relatively long time.

The first aspect is that when the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is restarted after a predetermined period of time or more has passed since the power supply to the air conditioner (10) has stopped, the user This is an air conditioner equipped with a notification section (41) that notifies one information.

In the first aspect, when the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is resumed after a predetermined period of time or more has passed since the power supply to the air conditioner (10) has stopped, the notification unit (41) The first information is notified to the person. The user can recognize the risk based on the first information. Specifically, when the user actually stops power supply to the air conditioner (10) for a relatively long time, the user is notified of the first information, and the power supply is stopped as in Patent Document 1. The user can be more aware of the risk compared to the case where the risk is notified at the time the system is stopped.

The second aspect includes, in the first aspect,
Prohibiting the operation of the air conditioner (10) when the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is restarted after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the power supply to the air conditioner (10) stopped. It is equipped with a control section (C) to

In the second aspect, when the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is resumed after a predetermined period of time or more has passed since the power supply to the air conditioner (10) has stopped, the control unit (C) Prohibit the operation of the harmonizer (10). Therefore, the air conditioner (10) can be prevented from being operated when the risk is high.

In a third aspect, in the first or second aspect,
The predetermined time is 200 hours.

For example, when a user unplugs the air conditioner (10) during the interim period, the power supply to the air conditioner (10) tends to be stopped for over 200 hours. Therefore, in the third aspect, the predetermined time is set to 200 hours. As a result, the power supply is not interrupted for a relatively short period of time, such as when changing the installation location of the air conditioner (10), but rather for 200 hours or more after the user unplugs the air conditioner (10) during the interim period. When the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is restarted after the period of time has elapsed, the user can be made aware of the risks due to the power supply to the air conditioner being stopped for a relatively long time.

In a fourth aspect, in the second aspect, the control unit (C) controls the operation of the air conditioner (10) when a command accompanying an operation by a manufacturer, a distributor, or a service provider is input. Lift the ban.

The control unit (C) of the fourth aspect cancels the prohibition on the operation of the air conditioner (10) on the condition that a command associated with the operation of the manufacturer, distributor, or service provider is input. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the air conditioner (10) from being operated even though these people have not inspected the air conditioner (10) or taken any measures.

In a fifth aspect, in the second aspect, the control unit (C) cancels the prohibition of operation of the air conditioner (10) when a predetermined cancellation code is input.

The control unit (C) of the fifth aspect cancels the prohibition of operation of the air conditioner (10) on the condition that a predetermined cancellation code is input. For example, the user contacts a service provider and learns a predetermined release code. Operation of the air conditioner (10) is prohibited until the release code known by the user or the like is input into the control unit (C).

In a sixth aspect, in the fifth aspect, the release code is information notified to the user by a manufacturer, a distributor, or a service provider after power supply to the air conditioner (10) is resumed. It is.

In the sixth aspect, operation of the air conditioner (10) is prohibited until a release code conveyed to the user by the manufacturer, distributor, or service provider is input into the control unit (C).

In a seventh aspect, in any one of the first to sixth aspects, the first information is information indicating that a predetermined time or more has passed since power supply to the air conditioner (10) was stopped. including.

In the seventh aspect, the user can know from the first information that a predetermined period of time or more has passed since the power supply to the air conditioner (10) was stopped. This allows the user to recognize that the risk is relatively high.

In an eighth aspect, in any one of the first to seventh aspects, the first information includes information that prompts contact with a manufacturer, a distributor, or a service provider.

In the eighth aspect, when the user knows the first information, the user can be prompted to contact the manufacturer, distributor, or service provider.

In a ninth aspect, in any one of the first to eighth aspects, the first information includes contact information of a manufacturer, a distributor, or a service provider.

In the ninth aspect, the first information allows the user to know the contact information of the manufacturer, distributor, or service provider.

In the tenth aspect, any one of the first to ninth aspects includes a sensor (35) that detects refrigerant leakage.

In the tenth aspect, if the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is stopped for a predetermined period of time or more, the sensor (35) that detects refrigerant leakage also stops working, increasing the risk. The user can recognize this risk based on the first information.

The eleventh aspect is that when the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is restarted after a predetermined period of time or more has passed since the power supply to the air conditioner (10) has stopped, the user This is a management device for an air conditioner equipped with a notification section (41) that notifies one information.

The twelfth aspect is that when the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is restarted after a predetermined period of time or more has passed since the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is stopped, the user This is a program for executing processing to notify one information.

FIG. 1 is a schematic piping system diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the air conditioner. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the air conditioner. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the power supply line of the air conditioner. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of control when power supply to the air conditioner is stopped. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the work and control after the operation of the air conditioner is prohibited. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioning system according to modification 1. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioning system according to modification 2. FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an air conditioner according to modification 3. FIG. 10 is a flowchart of control when power supply to the air conditioner according to modification 4 is stopped. FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a management device according to modification 5A. FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a management device according to modification 5B.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various changes can be made without departing from the technical idea of the present disclosure. Each drawing is for conceptually explaining the present disclosure, so dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary to facilitate understanding.

《Embodiment》
(1) Overall configuration of air conditioner FIG. 1 is a schematic piping system diagram of the air conditioner (10), and FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the air conditioner (10).

The air conditioner (10) adjusts the temperature of the air in the target space. The target space is the indoor space (I). The air conditioner (10) performs cooling operation and heating operation. In the cooling operation, the air conditioner (10) cools the air in the indoor space (I). In heating operation, the air conditioner (10) heats the air in the indoor space (I).

The air conditioner (10) includes a refrigerant circuit (11). The refrigerant circuit (11) is filled with refrigerant. The refrigerant circuit (11) performs a refrigeration cycle by circulating refrigerant.

The air conditioner (10) includes an outdoor unit (20), an indoor unit (30), a first connecting pipe (12), and a second connecting pipe (13). The air conditioner (10) is a pair type having one outdoor unit (20) and one indoor unit (30). The first communication pipe (12) is a gas communication pipe, and the second communication pipe (13) is a liquid communication pipe.

The outdoor unit (20) is installed outdoors. The outdoor unit (20) includes an outdoor casing (20a) and an outdoor element housed in the outdoor casing (20a). The outdoor elements include a compressor (21), an outdoor heat exchanger (22), an expansion valve (23), a four-way switching valve (24), and an outdoor fan (25).

The compressor (21) is a rotary compressor such as a swing piston type, rotary type, or scroll type. The outdoor heat exchanger (22) is a fin-and-tube type. The four-way switching valve (24) switches between a first state (the state shown by the solid line in FIG. 1) and a second state (the state shown by the broken line in FIG. 1). The four-way switching valve (24) in the first state communicates the discharge part of the compressor (21) with the gas end of the outdoor heat exchanger (22), and communicates the suction part of the compressor (21) with the first communication part. Communicate with piping (12). The four-way switching valve (24) in the second state communicates the discharge part of the compressor (21) with the first communication pipe (12), and communicates the suction part of the compressor (21) with the outdoor heat exchanger (22). communicate with the gas end of the The outdoor fan (25) is a propeller fan.

The indoor unit (30) includes an indoor casing (30a) and an indoor element housed in the indoor casing (30a). The indoor elements include an indoor heat exchanger (31) and an indoor fan (32). The indoor heat exchanger (31) is a fin-and-tube type. The indoor fan (32) is a cross flow fan.

(1-1) Refrigerant The refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (11) is a flammable refrigerant. The refrigerant in this example is propane (R290), which is a highly flammable natural refrigerant. Natural refrigerants have zero ozone depletion potential, low global warming potential, and have a low impact on the environment. The flammable refrigerant may be ammonia (R717), which is a natural refrigerant. The refrigerant may be methane (R50), ethane (R170), butane (R600), or isobutane (R600a), which are highly flammable natural refrigerants. The refrigerant may be difluoromethane (R32), 2,3,3,3 tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234yf) 1,3,3,3 tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234ze). The refrigerant may be a single refrigerant or a mixed refrigerant containing other refrigerants.

(1-2) Refrigerant leak sensor The air conditioner (10) includes a refrigerant leak sensor (35). The refrigerant leak sensor (35) is a sensor that detects refrigerant leakage. The refrigerant leak sensor (35) is activated by external power being supplied to the air conditioner (10). The refrigerant leak sensor (35) is arranged inside the indoor casing (30a) of the indoor unit (30). The refrigerant leak sensor (35) may be placed in the indoor space (I). The refrigerant leak sensor (35) outputs a signal indicating that refrigerant has leaked when a condition in which the concentration of refrigerant around it exceeds a predetermined value is established. The refrigerant leak sensor (35) may include an alarm device that issues an alarm when the above conditions are met.

(1-3) Control unit As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit (C) includes an indoor control unit (IC), an outdoor control unit (OC), and a remote controller (RC). The control unit (C) controls the air conditioner (10).

The outdoor control unit (OC) is provided in the outdoor unit (20). The outdoor control unit (OC) is arranged inside the outdoor casing (20a). The outdoor control unit (OC) controls the compressor (21), the expansion valve (23), the four-way switching valve (24), and the outdoor fan (25). Strictly speaking, the outdoor control unit (OC) controls the operation and stopping of the compressor (21), the rotation speed of the compressor (21), the opening degree of the expansion valve (23), the status of the four-way switching valve (24), and the outdoor Controls the operation and stopping of the fan (25) and the rotation speed of the outdoor fan (25).

The indoor control unit (IC) is provided in the indoor unit (30). The indoor control unit (IC) is arranged inside the indoor casing (30a). The indoor control unit (IC) controls the indoor fan (32). Specifically, the indoor control unit (IC) controls the operation and stopping of the indoor fan (32) and the rotation speed of the indoor fan (32). A signal output from the refrigerant leak sensor (35) is input to the indoor control unit (IC).

The indoor control unit (IC) and the outdoor control unit (OC) are connected by a first transmission line (W1) that is wired or wireless. The indoor control section (IC) and the outdoor control section (OC) are configured to be able to exchange signals with each other.

The remote controller (RC) is installed in the indoor space (I). The remote controller (RC) is a device that allows a user or the like to switch the operation of the air conditioner (10). The remote controller (RC) and the indoor control unit (IC) are connected by a second transmission line (W2) that is wireless or wired. The remote controller (RC) and the indoor control unit (IC) are configured to be able to exchange signals with each other.

The remote controller (RC) has a display section (41) and an operation section (42). The display unit (41) is an example of the notification unit of the present disclosure. The display section (41) is a display such as a liquid crystal screen. The operation unit (42) includes buttons and the like that are operated by the user. A touch panel may serve as the display section (41) and the operation section (42).

The remote controller (RC) outputs operation commands to the indoor control unit (IC) in response to operations on the operating unit (42). This operation command includes a command for switching the operation and stop of the air conditioner (10), a command for switching the operation mode (cooling operation or heating operation) of the air conditioner (10), and a target for the indoor space (I). Contains commands for switching the temperature (set temperature).

Each of the indoor control unit (IC), outdoor control unit (OC), and remote controller (RC) includes an MCU (Micro Control Unit), an electric circuit, and an electronic circuit. The MCU includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, and a communication interface. The memory stores various programs for the CPU to execute.

The program notifies the user of first information when the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is restarted after a predetermined period of time or more has passed since the power supply to the air conditioner (10) was stopped. Execute the processing for Specifically, the program executes steps S16 to S18, the details of which will be described later.

The management device (70) of the present disclosure includes a control unit (C) and a display unit (41) that is a notification unit.

(2) Operational operation The air conditioner (10) performs cooling operation and heating operation.

In cooling operation, the four-way switching valve (24) is in the first state. After the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (21) radiates heat in the outdoor heat exchanger (22), the pressure is reduced in the expansion valve (23). The depressurized refrigerant is evaporated in the indoor heat exchanger (31). Air cooled by the indoor heat exchanger (31) is supplied to the indoor space (I). The refrigerant evaporated in the indoor heat exchanger (31) is sucked into the compressor (21).

In heating operation, the four-way switching valve (24) is in the second state. In heating operation, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (21) radiates heat in the indoor heat exchanger (31), and then the pressure is reduced by the expansion valve (23). Air heated by the indoor heat exchanger (31) is supplied to the indoor space (I). The depressurized refrigerant is evaporated in the outdoor heat exchanger (22) and then sucked into the compressor (21).

(3) Configuration related to power supply system of air conditioner (3-1) Power line As shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, the indoor unit (30) has a power line (50) and a plug (51). The plug (51) is inserted into the outlet (5) facing the indoor space (I). As a result, the external power source (100), which is a commercial power source, and the air conditioner (10) are connected via the power line (50), and power is supplied from the external power source (100) to the air conditioner (10). Ru.

Strictly speaking, the external power supply (100) and the indoor control unit (IC) are connected by the power line (50), and the indoor control unit (IC) and the outdoor control unit (OC) are connected by the relay line (52). . The indoor controller (IC) provides power to the indoor elements. The indoor controller (IC) provides power to the outdoor elements. In this manner, when power is supplied from the external power source (100) to the air conditioner (10), both the indoor unit (30) and the outdoor unit (20) are energized.

The air conditioner (10) has a detection section (53), a first built-in power supply (54), and a switch circuit (55).

The detection unit (53) is provided on the power line (50). The detection unit (53) detects whether power is being supplied from the external power supply (100) to the air conditioner (10).

The first built-in power supply (54) is an auxiliary power supply for the air conditioner (10). The first built-in power supply (54) is arranged inside the indoor casing (30a). The first built-in power supply (54) is composed of a battery or a storage battery. The first built-in power supply (54) is connected to the indoor control unit (IC) via an auxiliary power supply line (56). The first built-in power supply (54) supplies power to the air conditioner (10) (strictly speaking, the indoor control unit (IC)) when power is not supplied to the air conditioner (10) from the external power supply (100). Supply electricity.

The switch circuit (55) switches the energization state of the auxiliary power line (56). When the detection unit (53) detects that power is not being supplied from the external power supply (100) to the air conditioner (10), the switch circuit (55) is turned on. When the switch circuit (55) is turned on, the first built-in power supply (54) and the indoor control unit (IC) are turned on. When the detection unit (53) detects that power is being supplied to the air conditioner (10) from the external power supply (100), the switch circuit (55) is turned off. When the switch circuit (55) is turned off, the first built-in power supply (54) and the indoor control unit (IC) are de-energized.

(3-2) Counter As shown in FIG. 3, the indoor control unit (IC) has a counter (57) that is a timekeeping device. The counter (57) measures the time during which power is not supplied from the external power source (100) to the air conditioner (10) (hereinafter also referred to as the first time). For example, the counter (57) measures the time when the external power source (100) and the indoor control unit (IC) are in a non-energized state as a first time. Specifically, for example, the counter (57) measures the time when the switch circuit (55) is in the ON state, in other words, the time when the first built-in power supply (54) and the indoor control unit (IC) are in the energized state. Measure as 1 hour.

(3-3) Configuration of control unit regarding power supply The control unit (C) determines that the power supply from the external power source (100) to the air conditioner (10) has elapsed for a predetermined time Ts or more. Here, the predetermined time Ts is set to 200 hours. The predetermined time Ts is preferably 200 hours or more, but may be shorter than 200 hours. The predetermined time Ts can be arbitrarily set in the control section (C). The predetermined time Ts may be set at the time of shipping the product, or may be changeable using an operation unit such as a remote controller (RC).

The display section (41) indicates that the power supply from the external power source (100) to the air conditioner (10) is resumed after the power supply from the external power source (100) to the air conditioner (10) has elapsed for a predetermined time Ts or more. If so, the first information is notified to the user.

The first information includes information A indicating that a predetermined time or more has passed since power supply from the external power source (100) to the air conditioner (10) was stopped. For example, an example of what information A may display on the display section (41) is, "More than 200 hours have passed since the power supply stopped," or "More than 200 hours have passed since the power supply stopped." It will be done.

The first information includes information B that prompts contact with the manufacturer, distributor, or service provider. For example, examples of information B displayed on the display section (41) include "Please contact manufacturer X," "Please contact distributor Y," and "Please contact service provider." It will be done.

The first information includes information C that is the contact information of the manufacturer, distributor, or service provider. An example of the information C displayed on the display unit is a character string including a telephone number, email address, address, URL, etc. The information C may be a QR code (registered trademark) that includes a URL where the contact information can be found.

The control unit (C) restarts power supply from the external power source (100) to the air conditioner (10) after a predetermined time Ts or more has elapsed since the power supply from the external power source (100) to the air conditioner (10) has elapsed. Prohibits the operation of the air conditioner (10) when Specifically, when power supply is restarted when this condition is satisfied, the control unit (C) locks the air conditioner (10). When the air conditioner (10) is in a locked state, the air conditioner (10) cannot start operating, even if the user operates the remote controller (RC) and sends a command to operate the air conditioner (10). .

(4) Control operations related to power supply Control operations related to power supply will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5.

For example, a user may unplug the power line plug (51) of the indoor unit (30) from the outlet (5) during intermediate seasons such as spring and autumn. This is because during the intermediate period, the air conditioner (10) is almost never used, so standby power can be reduced by unplugging the plug (51) from the outlet (5).

On the other hand, if power is no longer supplied to the air conditioner (10) from the external power source (100) in this state, the refrigerant leak sensor (35) will no longer operate. Therefore, if the refrigerant were to leak from the refrigerant pipes or the connecting portions of the refrigerant pipes, there would be a risk of ignition. In particular, in this embodiment, since flammable propane is used as the refrigerant, the risk of ignition increases. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is stopped for a relatively long period of time, the following control is performed to reduce such risks.

For example, when the user pulls out the plug (51) from the outlet (5), power is no longer supplied from the external power source (100) to the air conditioner (10) in step S11.

In step S12, the detection unit (53) detects that the power supply from the external power supply (100) to the air conditioner (10) has stopped.

In step S13, the switch circuit (55) is turned on, and the first built-in power supply (54) and the indoor control unit (IC) are turned on. As a result, power is supplied from the first built-in power supply (54) to the indoor control unit (IC).

In step S14, the counter (57) measures the first time when the power supply from the external power source (100) to the air conditioner (10) stops. This first time is not cumulative time but continuous time.

In step S15, when power supply from the external power source (100) to the air conditioner (10) is restarted, the process moves to step S16.

In step S16, the control unit (C) determines whether the first time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time Ts (200 hours in this example). As described above, when the user unplugs the outlet (5), there is a very high possibility that the first time will be longer than the predetermined time Ts. In step S16, if the first time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time Ts, the process moves to step S17 and step S18.

In step S17, the control unit (C) locks the air conditioner (10) and prohibits operation of the air conditioner (10). Therefore, if the power supply from the external power source (100) to the air conditioner (10) is restarted after the first time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time Ts, the air conditioner (10) cannot be operated. Therefore, it is possible to avoid operating the air conditioner (10) as is under conditions where the risk of refrigerant leakage is high.

In step S18, a signal is output from the indoor control unit (IC) to the remote controller (RC). When the remote controller (RC) receives this signal, the display section (41) displays the first information. The first information includes information A, information B, and information C described above.

When the user confirms information A indicating that a predetermined period of time has passed since the power supply from the external power source (100) to the air conditioner (10) stopped, the user confirms that there is currently no risk due to refrigerant leakage. I can recognize that it is expensive.

When the user confirms the information B that prompts contact with the manufacturer, distributor, or service provider, the user can recognize that it is necessary to contact these workers.

Once the user confirms the information C that includes the contact information of the manufacturer, distributor, or service provider, the user can easily contact these workers. After that, countermeasures that will be described in detail later can be taken.

In step S16, if the first time is less than the predetermined time Ts, the processes of step S17 and step S18 are not executed. Therefore, operation of the air conditioner (10) is not prohibited, and the first information is not notified to the user. In this way, if the time during which power supply to the air conditioner (10) is stopped is shorter than the predetermined time Ts, for example, when a breaker trips in a house or a power outage occurs, the air conditioner (10) is 10) allows normal operation.

(5) Response after restarting power supply After the operation of the air conditioner (10) is prohibited in step S17 and the first information is notified to the user in step S18, the work and control shown in FIG. It will be done.

In step S21, the user notifies a worker such as a manufacturer, distributor, or service provider that the first information has been reported.

In step S22, the worker who receives this notification checks the air conditioner (10). Specifically, it is checked whether any abnormality has occurred in the air conditioner (10) and whether refrigerant has leaked into the indoor space (I). If there is any abnormality or refrigerant leakage, the operator will take countermeasures against these.

In step S23, the user inputs the release code into the control unit (C). Here, the release code is a code for releasing the prohibition on operation of the air conditioner (10). The release code is information provided to the user by the manufacturer, distributor, or service provider. The user who knows the release code inputs the release code into the control unit (C) by operating the remote controller (RC). Note that the operator may input the release code into the control unit (C).

When the release code is input to the control unit (C), the locked state of the air conditioner (10) is released in step S24. Therefore, after that, the air conditioner (10) can be operated normally.

(6) Effects of embodiment (6-1)
The air conditioner (10) stops supplying power to the external power source (100) of the air conditioner (10) after a predetermined time Ts or more has elapsed since the power supply to the air conditioner (10) stopped. A display unit (41) is provided as a notification unit that notifies the user of first information when restarting.

Therefore, if the user removes the plug (51) of the air conditioner (10) from the outlet (5) and the risk increases, the risk will be removed when the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is resumed. It is possible to make the user aware of this. Therefore, predetermined measures can be taken after that.

On the other hand, if the time during which the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is stopped is shorter than the predetermined time Ts when the breaker of the house trips or a power outage occurs, the display section (41) The first information is not broadcast to the user. Therefore, it is possible to avoid deterioration in the usability of the air conditioner (10).

(6-2)
The air conditioner (10) is configured to operate the air conditioner (10) when the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is resumed after a predetermined time Ts or more has passed since the power supply to the air conditioner (10) was stopped. It is equipped with a control section (C) that prohibits the operation of the air conditioner (10).

Therefore, if the user removes the plug (51) of the air conditioner (10) from the outlet (5) and the risk increases, it is ensured that the air conditioner (10) will continue to operate in that state. can be avoided. Therefore, predetermined measures can be taken before the air conditioner (10) is operated.

On the other hand, if the breaker in the house trips or a power outage occurs and the time during which the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is stopped is shorter than the predetermined time Ts, the air conditioner (10) is You can drive as is. Therefore, it is possible to avoid deterioration in the usability of the air conditioner (10).

(6-3)
The predetermined time Ts for determining whether to notify the user of the first information and whether to prohibit operation of the air conditioner (10) is 200 hours. Generally, power outages due to earthquakes and the like rarely last more than 200 hours. On the other hand, in intermediate seasons such as spring and autumn, the time during which the plug (51) of the air conditioner (10) is disconnected from the outlet (5) to save power is usually 200 hours or more. Therefore, by setting the predetermined time Ts to 200 hours, it is possible to reliably avoid notification of the first information or the air conditioner (10) becoming locked due to a power outage or the like. Therefore, deterioration in usability of the air conditioner (10) can be reliably avoided.

(6-4)
When a predetermined release code is input, the control unit (C) releases the prohibition of operation of the air conditioner (10) (steps S23 and S24).

Therefore, it is possible to reliably avoid normal operation of the air conditioner (10) after the operating state of the air conditioner (10) is locked.

This release code is information provided to the user by the manufacturer, distributor, or service provider.

Therefore, it is possible to reliably avoid normal operation of the air conditioner (10) until the confirmation and countermeasures of these workers are completed.

(6-5)
The first information includes information indicating that a predetermined period of time or more has passed since power supply to the air conditioner (10) was stopped. Therefore, the user can reliably recognize that the risk is increased due to, for example, unplugging the plug (51).

The first information includes information that prompts contact with the manufacturer, distributor, or service provider. Therefore, users who know the first information can be urged to contact these workers.

The first information includes contact information of the manufacturer, distributor, or service provider. Therefore, the user who knows the first information can easily contact these workers.

(7) Modifications The above embodiment may have the following modifications. In principle, points different from the above embodiment will be explained below.

(7-1) Modification example 1
As shown in FIG. 7, the air conditioner (10) of Modification 1 is connected to a worker terminal device (60) via a network (N). The worker-side terminal device (60) includes a server device and a monitoring device. The worker-side terminal device is a device that can be operated by a manufacturer, a retailer, or a service provider. The air conditioner (10) and the worker-side terminal device (60) are configured in an air conditioning system.

When the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is stopped for a predetermined time Ts or more, the control unit (C) of the air conditioner (10) sends a signal indicating that the risk of the air conditioner (10) is high. , is transmitted to the worker side terminal device (60) via the network (N). This signal includes ID information of the target air conditioner (10). This allows the manufacturer, distributor, or service provider to know that a particular air conditioner (10) poses a high risk without waiting for a user's contact.

After confirming the identified air conditioner (10), the worker operates the worker-side terminal device (60). By this operation, a command is sent from the worker-side terminal device (60) to the specified air conditioner (10). When a command is input to the control unit (C) of the air conditioner (10), the control unit (C) cancels the prohibition on the operation of the air conditioner (10). Thereby, the air conditioner (10) can operate after that.

As described above, in Modification 1, the control unit (C) cancels the prohibition on the operation of the air conditioner (10) when a command associated with the operation of the manufacturer, distributor, or service provider is input. Therefore, it is possible to reliably prevent the prohibition of operation of the air conditioner (10) from being canceled by the user's operation.

(7-2) Modification example 2
In Modification 2 shown in FIG. 8, the air conditioner (10) is connected to the network (N), and the first time is acquired by the first clock device (61) connected to the network (N). The first clock device (61) is included as part of the management device of the present disclosure. The air conditioner (10) and the first timing device (61) are configured in an air conditioning system.

For example, the first timing device (61) determines the first time when the power supply from the external power supply (100) to the air conditioner (10) is stopped, based on the signal transmitted from the air conditioner (10), and the external and a second time when power supply from the power source (100) to the air conditioner (10) is resumed. The first timekeeping device (61) obtains the first time based on the first time and the second time. The first time is transmitted to the control unit (C) of the air conditioner (10) via the network (N). The control unit (C) performs the determination in step S16 described above based on this first time.

In Modification 2, the control of the present disclosure can be performed without providing the first built-in power supply (54) in the air conditioner (10).

(7-3) Modification example 3
In modification 3, the first time is measured by a remote controller (RC). As shown in FIG. 9, the remote controller (RC) is provided with a second clock device (43) and a second built-in power source (44). For example, the second timing device (43) determines the first time when the power supply from the external power source (100) to the air conditioner (10) is stopped and the external and a second time when power supply from the power source (100) to the air conditioner (10) is resumed. A remote controller (RC) obtains a first time based on the first time and the second time. The control unit (C) performs the determination in step S16 described above based on this first time.

In Modification 3, the control of the present disclosure can be performed without providing the first built-in power supply (54) in the air conditioner (10).

(7-4) Modification example 4
In modification 4, in step S16 of the embodiment, if the first time is not longer than the predetermined time Ts, the display unit (41) serving as the notification unit displays the second Announce information. Examples of the second information include "the outlet was unplugged,""the power supply was temporarily stopped," and "the power supply was stopped for a period shorter than the predetermined time Ts." The second information can be said to be information with a lower degree of risk than the first information. Also in the fourth modification, if the first time is not longer than the predetermined time Ts, the control unit (C) does not prohibit the operation of the air conditioner (10).

(7-5) Modification example 5
In the embodiment described above, the air conditioner (10) is provided with the management device (70). However, the management device (70) may be applied to a terminal device, a server device, or a central management device that can communicate with the air conditioner (10). The management device (70) may be provided in any one of the air conditioner (10), the terminal device, the server device, and the central management device, or may be provided across two or more of these devices. Good too. The program of the embodiment described above may be stored in a storage unit of a terminal device, a server device, or a central management device. Below, a modified example of the management device (70) will be illustrated.

(7-5-1) Modification 5A
The management device (60) of modification 5A shown in FIG. 11 includes a server device (71) and an air conditioner (10). The server device (71) and the air conditioner (10) are connected to the network (N) via wire or wirelessly. The server device (71) is provided with a server control section (72). The air conditioner (10) is provided with an air conditioning control section (73). A control unit (C) is configured by a server control unit (72) and an air conditioning control unit (73). The server control unit (72) and the air conditioning control unit (73) include an MCU (Micro Control Unit), an electric circuit, and an electronic circuit. The MCU includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, and a communication interface. The memory stores various programs for the CPU to execute. The remote controller (RC) is provided with a display section (41) as a notification section.

The control unit (C) is configured to provide a user with an instruction when the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is resumed after a predetermined period of time or more has elapsed since the power supply to the air conditioner (10) was stopped. 1. Performs processing to notify information.

Specifically, when the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is restarted, the server control unit (72) controls the air conditioner (10) when the first time during which the power supply was stopped is equal to or longer than the predetermined time Ts, as in the above-described embodiment. Determine whether or not. The first time may be measured by a timing device on the air conditioner (10) side, or may be measured by a timing device on the server device (71) side. If the first time is longer than the predetermined time Ts, the server control unit (72) causes the server device (71) to output the first signal to the air conditioner (10). When the air conditioner (10) receives the first signal, the air conditioning control section (73) causes the display section (41) to display the first information. As a result, if the user removes the plug (51) of the air conditioner (10) from the outlet (5) and the risk increases, that risk will be removed when the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is resumed. It is possible to make the user aware of this.

When the air conditioner (10) receives the first signal, the air conditioner control section (73) prohibits the operation of the air conditioner (10). Therefore, if the user removes the plug (51) of the air conditioner (10) from the outlet (5) and the risk increases, it is ensured that the air conditioner (10) will continue to operate in that state. can be avoided.

(7-5-2) Modification example 5B
The management device (70) of modification 5B shown in FIG. 12 includes a terminal device (74). The terminal device (74) includes a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, etc. The terminal device (74) and the air conditioner (10) are connected by a third transmission line (W3) that is wired or wireless. The terminal device (74) is provided with a terminal control section (75). The air conditioner (10) is provided with an air conditioning control section (73). The terminal control section (75) and the air conditioning control section (73) constitute a control section (C). The terminal control section (75) and the air conditioning control section (73) include an MCU (Micro Control Unit), an electric circuit, and an electronic circuit. The MCU includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, and a communication interface. The memory stores various programs for the CPU to execute. The terminal device (74) is provided with a display section (41) as a notification section.

When the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is restarted, the terminal control unit (75) determines whether the first time during which the power supply was stopped is longer than the predetermined time Ts, as in the above-described embodiment. Determine. The first time may be measured by a timing device on the air conditioner (10) side, or may be measured by a timing device on the terminal device (74) side. If the first time is longer than the predetermined time Ts, the terminal control section (75) causes the display section (41) of the terminal device (74) to display the first information. If the first time is longer than the predetermined time Ts, the terminal control unit (75) causes the terminal device (74) to output the first signal to the air conditioner (10). When the air conditioner (10) receives the first signal, the air conditioner control section (73) prohibits the operation of the air conditioner (10).

(7-5-3) Modification example 5C
The management device (70) of Modification 5C has the same basic configuration as Modification 5B. In modification 5C, when the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is restarted, the air conditioning control unit (73) determines whether the first time during which the power supply was stopped is equal to or longer than the predetermined time Ts. do. The first time may be measured by a timing device on the air conditioner (10) side, or may be measured by a timing device on the terminal device (74) side. If the first time is longer than the predetermined time Ts, the air conditioning control unit (73) causes the air conditioner (10) to output the first signal to the terminal device (74). When the terminal device (74) receives the first signal, the terminal control section (75) causes the display section (41) of the terminal device (74) to display the first information. If the first time is longer than the predetermined time Ts, the air conditioning control section (73) prohibits the operation of the air conditioner (10).

(8) Other Embodiments The air conditioner (10) described above is a pair type having one indoor unit (30) and one outdoor unit (20). However, the air conditioner (10) may be an indoor multi-type having two or more indoor units (30) or an indoor multi-type having two or more outdoor units (20).

The air conditioner (10) may be a ventilation device that ventilates the air, an air purifier that purifies the air, or a humidity control device that humidifies or dehumidifies the air. In other words, "air conditioning" here includes not only air temperature control, but also air ventilation, air purification, and air humidity control.

The air conditioner (10) may be equipped with a countermeasure device against refrigerant leakage. Countermeasure devices include fans that stir the air by detecting refrigerant leaks, ventilation devices that ventilate the air, and shutoff valves that close off refrigerant piping. This fan may be an indoor fan (32).

The notifying unit that notifies the first information does not necessarily have to be the display unit (41). The notification unit may be a device that emits audio corresponding to the first information.

Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Elements of the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be combined or replaced as appropriate.

The descriptions of “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. mentioned above are used to distinguish the words to which these descriptions are given, and even the number and order of the words are limited. It's not something you do.

As explained above, the present disclosure is useful for air conditioners, air conditioner management devices, and programs.

10 Air conditioner
35 Refrigerant leak sensor (sensor)
41 Display section (notification section)
70 Management device
C control section

Claims

a notification unit that notifies a user of first information when power supply to the air conditioner (10) is restarted after a predetermined period of time or more has elapsed since the power supply to the air conditioner (10) was stopped; (41) Air conditioning equipment.
When the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is resumed after a predetermined period of time or more has elapsed since the power supply to the air conditioner (10) was stopped, the operation of the air conditioner (10) is stopped. The air conditioner according to claim 1, further comprising a control unit (C) that prohibits the air conditioning.
The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the predetermined time is 200 hours.
The air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein the control unit (C) releases the prohibition of operation of the air conditioner (10) when a command associated with an operation by a manufacturer, a distributor, or a service provider is input. Device.
The air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein the control unit (C) releases the prohibition of operation of the air conditioner (10) when a predetermined release code is input.
The air conditioner according to claim 5, wherein the release code is information notified to the user by a manufacturer, a distributor, or a service provider after power supply to the air conditioner (10) is resumed.
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first information includes information indicating that a predetermined period of time or more has passed since power supply to the air conditioner (10) was stopped.
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first information includes information that prompts contact with a manufacturer, a distributor, or a service provider.
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first information includes contact information of a manufacturer, a distributor, or a service provider.
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a sensor (35) for detecting refrigerant leakage.
a notification unit that notifies a user of first information when power supply to the air conditioner (10) is restarted after a predetermined period of time or more has elapsed since the power supply to the air conditioner (10) was stopped; (41) A management device for air conditioners.
When the power supply to the air conditioner (10) is resumed after a predetermined period of time or more has elapsed since the power supply to the air conditioner (10) has been stopped, a process is performed to notify the user of the first information. Program to run.