阅读说明：本技术 空调机
(Air conditioner
) 是由 川岛良范
加藤智大
板仓弘修 于 2019-01-10 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明提供一种使室内换热器成为清洁的状态并抑制滴水的空调机。空调机(100)的控制部(30)使室内换热器(15)作为蒸发器发挥功能,来进行使室内换热器(15)冻结的冻结处理。在室内温度传感器的检测值为第一预定值以上的情况下,控制部(30)不进行冻结处理,或者,即使在进行冻结处理时,也缩短冻结处理的持续时间或缩小冻结处理中的压缩机马达(11a)的转速。上述的第一预定值比在制冷运转时或制热运转时能够由遥控器变更的设定温度的上限值低。(The invention provides an air conditioner which makes an indoor heat exchanger in a clean state and restrains water dripping. A control unit (30) of an air conditioner (100) causes an indoor heat exchanger (15) to function as an evaporator, and performs a freezing process for freezing the indoor heat exchanger (15). When the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, the control unit (30) does not perform the freezing process, or shortens the duration of the freezing process or reduces the rotation speed of the compressor motor (11a) during the freezing process even when the freezing process is performed. The first predetermined value is lower than an upper limit value of a set temperature that can be changed by a remote controller during a cooling operation or a heating operation.)
1. An air conditioner is characterized by comprising:
a refrigerant circuit in which a refrigerant circulates through a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator in this order;
a control unit for controlling at least the compressor and the expansion valve; and
an indoor temperature sensor that detects a temperature of the air conditioning target space,
one of the condenser and the evaporator is an outdoor heat exchanger, and the other is an indoor heat exchanger,
the control unit performs a freezing process for freezing the indoor heat exchanger by causing the indoor heat exchanger to function as the evaporator,
the control unit does not perform the freezing process when the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, or makes the duration of the freezing process shorter than when the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is smaller than the first predetermined value or makes the rotation speed of the motor of the compressor during the freezing process smaller than when the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is smaller than the first predetermined value even when the freezing process is performed,
the first predetermined value is lower than an upper limit value of a set temperature that can be changed by a remote controller during a cooling operation or a heating operation.
2. The air conditioner according to claim 1,
the control unit does not perform the freezing process when a detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or less than a second predetermined value lower than the first predetermined value.
3. The air conditioner according to claim 1,
even when the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value, the control unit executes the freezing process in the same manner as when the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is smaller than the first predetermined value when the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation is performed before the freezing process.
4. An air conditioner according to claim 3,
an indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger,
when the detected value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value, the control unit does not perform the freezing process when a difference between the detected value of the indoor temperature sensor and the detected value of the indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor during the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation performed before the freezing process is equal to or less than a third predetermined value.
5. The air conditioner according to claim 4,
the control unit sets the third predetermined value in accordance with the rotation speed of the motor of the compressor in the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation performed before the freezing process,
the third predetermined value is increased as the rotation speed of the motor of the compressor is increased.
6. The air conditioner according to claim 1,
when the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value, the control unit performs a cooling operation or an air blowing operation when the freezing process is not performed.
7. The air conditioner according to claim 1,
an indoor fan disposed in the vicinity of the indoor heat exchanger,
the control unit drives the indoor fan when the indoor temperature sensor detects the temperature of the air-conditioned space.
8. The air conditioner according to claim 1,
comprises a weather information acquiring unit for acquiring weather information including outdoor humidity in the vicinity of the air conditioner from a server,
even when the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value, the control unit performs the freezing process in the same manner as when the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is smaller than the first predetermined value when the outdoor humidity included in the weather information acquired by the weather information acquisition unit is equal to or less than a fourth predetermined value.
9. An air conditioner according to claim 3,
even when the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value, the control unit performs the freezing process in the same manner as when the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is smaller than the first predetermined value when the reduction width or the reduction speed of the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than a fifth predetermined value during the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation performed before the freezing process.
10. An air conditioner is characterized by comprising:
a refrigerant circuit in which a refrigerant circulates through a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator in this order;
a control unit for controlling at least the compressor and the expansion valve; and
an indoor temperature sensor that detects a temperature of the air conditioning target space,
one of the condenser and the evaporator is an outdoor heat exchanger, and the other is an indoor heat exchanger,
the control unit performs a freezing process for freezing the indoor heat exchanger by causing the indoor heat exchanger to function as the evaporator,
the control unit performs the freezing process after performing the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation when a detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value,
the first predetermined value is lower than an upper limit value of a set temperature that can be changed by a remote controller during a cooling operation or a heating operation.
Technical Field
The present invention relates to an air conditioner.
Background
As a technique for bringing an indoor heat exchanger of an air conditioner into a clean state, for example, patent document 1 describes the following: the indoor heat exchanger is sequentially frosted and defrosted to remove dirt of the indoor heat exchanger.
Disclosure of Invention
Problems to be solved by the invention
However, if the indoor heat exchanger is frosted, the temperature of the air near the indoor unit is lower than the dew point, and there is a possibility that the casing and the devices of the indoor unit condense. For example, if dew condensation occurs on the outer surface of the casing of the indoor unit, the dew condensation water may fall (drip) by its own weight depending on the case. Patent document 1 does not describe a countermeasure against such a problem.
Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner in which an indoor heat exchanger is kept clean and water dripping is suppressed.
Means for solving the problems
In order to solve the above-described problems, an air conditioner according to the present invention is an air conditioner in which a control unit performs a freezing process for freezing an indoor heat exchanger by causing the indoor heat exchanger to function as an evaporator, and the control unit does not perform the freezing process when a detection value of an indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, or, even when the freezing process is performed, makes a duration of the freezing process shorter than a case where the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is smaller than the first predetermined value, or makes a rotation speed of a motor of a compressor in the freezing process smaller than a case where the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is smaller than the first predetermined value, and the first predetermined value is lower than an upper limit value of a set temperature that can be changed by a remote controller during a cooling operation or a heating operation.
In the air conditioner of the present invention, the control unit performs a freezing process for freezing the indoor heat exchanger by causing the indoor heat exchanger to function as an evaporator, and the control unit performs the freezing process after performing the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation when a detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value that is lower than an upper limit value of a set temperature that can be changed by the remote controller during the cooling operation or the heating operation.
ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF INVENTION
According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an air conditioner in which the indoor heat exchanger is kept clean and dripping is suppressed.
Drawings
Fig. 1 is a configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of an indoor unit of an air conditioner according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 3 is a functional block diagram of an air conditioner according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 4 is a flowchart of a process executed by the control unit of the air conditioner according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 5 is a wet air line diagram illustrating a first predetermined value and an upper limit value relating to the indoor temperature in the air conditioner according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 6 is an explanatory diagram relating to on/off switching of a compressor and an indoor fan provided in an air conditioner according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 7 is a flowchart of a process executed by the control unit of the air conditioner according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 8 is a flowchart of a process executed by the control unit of the air conditioner according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 9 is a flowchart of a process executed by the control unit of the air conditioner according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 10 is a flowchart of a process executed by a control unit of an air conditioner according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a relationship between the rotation speed of a compressor motor and a third predetermined value provided in an air conditioner according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 12 is a flowchart of a process executed by a control unit of an air conditioner according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram of an air conditioner according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 14 is a flowchart of a process executed by the control unit of the air conditioner according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.
Detailed Description
First embodiment
Structure of air conditioner
Fig. 1 is a configuration diagram of an air conditioner 100 according to a first embodiment.
Note that solid arrows in fig. 1 show the flow of the refrigerant during the heating operation.
On the other hand, the dashed arrows in fig. 1 show the flow of the refrigerant during the cooling operation.
The air conditioner 100 is a device that performs air conditioning such as cooling operation and heating operation. As shown in fig. 1, the air conditioner 100 includes a compressor 11, an outdoor heat exchanger 12, an outdoor fan 13, and an expansion valve 14. The air conditioner 100 includes, in addition to the above configuration, an indoor heat exchanger 15, an indoor fan 16, and a four-way valve 17.
The compressor 11 is a device that compresses a low-temperature low-pressure gas refrigerant and discharges the refrigerant as a high-temperature high-pressure gas refrigerant. As shown in fig. 1, the compressor 11 includes a compressor motor 11a as a drive source.
The outdoor heat exchanger 12 exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing through the heat transfer pipe (not shown) and the outside air sent from the outdoor fan 13.
The outdoor fan 13 is a fan that sends outside air to the outdoor heat exchanger 12. The outdoor fan 13 includes an outdoor fan motor 13a as a drive source, and is provided in the vicinity of the outdoor heat exchanger 12.
The expansion valve 14 is a valve that reduces the pressure of the refrigerant condensed by the "condenser" (one of the outdoor heat exchanger 12 and the indoor heat exchanger 15). The refrigerant decompressed by the expansion valve 14 is guided to the "evaporator" (the other of the outdoor heat exchanger 12 and the indoor heat exchanger 15).
The indoor heat exchanger 15 exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing through the heat transfer pipe g (see fig. 2) and the indoor air (air in the space to be air-conditioned) sent from the indoor fan 16.
The indoor fan 16 is a fan that sends indoor air to the indoor heat exchanger 15. The indoor fan 16 includes an indoor fan motor 16c (see fig. 3) as a drive source, and is provided in the vicinity of the indoor heat exchanger 15.
The four-way valve 17 is a valve for switching the flow path of the refrigerant according to the operation mode of the air conditioner 100. For example, during a cooling operation (see a dotted arrow in fig. 1), in the refrigerant circuit Q, the refrigerant circulates through the compressor 11, the outdoor heat exchanger 12 (condenser), the expansion valve 14, and the indoor heat exchanger 15 (evaporator) in this order in the refrigeration cycle.
On the other hand, during the heating operation (see solid arrows in fig. 1), in the refrigerant circuit Q, the refrigerant circulates through the compressor 11, the indoor heat exchanger 15 (condenser), the expansion valve 14, and the outdoor heat exchanger 12 (evaporator) in this order in the refrigeration cycle.
That is, in the refrigerant circuit Q in which the refrigerant circulates through the compressor 11, the "condenser", the expansion valve 14, and the "evaporator" in this order, one of the "condenser" and the "evaporator" is the outdoor heat exchanger 12, and the other is the indoor heat exchanger 15.
In the example of fig. 1, a compressor 11, an outdoor heat exchanger 12, an outdoor fan 13, an expansion valve 14, and a four-way valve 17 are provided in the outdoor unit Uo. On the other hand, the indoor heat exchanger 15 and the indoor fan 16 are provided in the indoor unit Ui.
Fig. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of the indoor unit Ui.
As shown in fig. 2, the indoor unit Ui includes, in addition to the indoor heat exchanger 15 and the indoor fan 16, a dew condensation pan 18, a casing base 19, and filters 20a and 20 b. The indoor unit Ui includes a front panel 21, a horizontal air vane 22, and a vertical air vane 23.
The indoor heat exchanger 15 includes a plurality of fins f and a plurality of heat transfer pipes g penetrating the fins f. To explain from another point of view, the indoor heat exchanger 15 includes a front indoor heat exchanger 15a disposed on the front side of the indoor fan 16 and a rear indoor heat exchanger 15b disposed on the rear side of the indoor fan 16. In the example of fig. 2, the upper end of the front indoor heat exchanger 15a and the upper end of the rear indoor heat exchanger 15b are connected in an inverted V shape.
The indoor fan 16 is, for example, a cylindrical cross-flow fan, and is provided in the vicinity of the indoor heat exchanger 15. The indoor fan 16 includes a plurality of fan blades 16a, an annular partition plate 16b provided on the fan blades 16a, and an indoor fan motor 16c (see fig. 3) as a drive source.
The dew receiving tray 18 receives the condensed water of the indoor heat exchanger 15 and is disposed at a lower side of the indoor heat exchanger 15.
The casing base 19 is a casing on which the indoor heat exchanger 15, the indoor fan 16, and the like are installed.
The filters 20a and 20b collect dust from the air flowing toward the indoor heat exchanger 15 as the indoor fan 16 is driven. One filter 20a is disposed on the front side of the indoor heat exchanger 15, and the other filter 20b is disposed on the upper side of the indoor heat exchanger 15.
The front panel 21 is a panel provided to cover the front filter 20a, and is rotatable with the lower end thereof being the axial direction and the front side. The front panel 21 may not rotate.
The horizontal air vanes 22 are plate-like members that adjust the horizontal direction of the air blown into the room. The horizontal air vanes 22 are disposed in the outlet air duct h3, and are rotated in the horizontal direction by the horizontal air vane motor 24 (see fig. 3).
The up-down airflow direction plate 23 is a plate-like member that adjusts the vertical airflow direction of the air blown into the room. The up-down wind direction plate 23 is disposed in the vicinity of the air outlet h4, and is rotated in the up-down direction by the up-down wind direction plate motor 25 (see fig. 3).
The air sucked in through the air suction ports h1 and h2 exchanges heat with the refrigerant flowing through the heat transfer tubes g of the indoor heat exchanger 15, and is guided to the outlet air passage h 3. The air flowing through the outlet duct h3 is guided in a predetermined direction by the horizontal wind direction plate 22 and the vertical wind direction plate 23, and is blown out into the room through the air outlet h 4.
Most of the dust directed toward the air inlets h1, h2 along with the air flow is collected by the filters 20a, 20 b. However, fine dust may pass through the filters 20a and 20b and adhere to the indoor heat exchanger 15, and it is desirable to periodically clean the indoor heat exchanger 15. Therefore, in the present embodiment, after frost has formed due to freezing in the indoor heat exchanger 15, the indoor heat exchanger 15 is defrosted and cleaned. Hereinafter, a series of processes including freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15 will be referred to as "freeze cleaning" of the indoor heat exchanger 15.
Fig. 3 is a functional block diagram of the air conditioner 100.
The indoor unit Ui shown in fig. 3 includes, in addition to the above-described respective configurations, a remote controller signal transmitting/receiving unit 26, an environment detection unit 27, and an indoor control circuit 31.
The remote controller signal transmission/reception unit 26 exchanges predetermined information between the remote controllers 40 by infrared communication or the like.
The environment detection unit 27 includes an indoor temperature sensor 27a and an indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 27 b.
The indoor temperature sensor 27a is a sensor for detecting the temperature of the room (air-conditioned space), and is provided on the air intake side of the filters 20a and 20b (see fig. 2), for example.
The indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 27b is a sensor for detecting the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (see fig. 2), and is provided in the indoor heat exchanger 15.
The detection values of the indoor temperature sensor 27a and the indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 27b are output to the indoor control circuit 31.
In the example of fig. 3, the air conditioner 100 is configured not to include a humidity sensor (not shown) for detecting the humidity (e.g., relative humidity) in the room, but is not limited to this configuration.
The indoor control circuit 31 is configured as an electronic circuit including a cpu (central Processing unit), a rom (read only memory), a ram (random Access memory), various interfaces, and the like, but is not shown. Further, a program stored in the ROM is read and developed in the RAM, so that the CPU executes various processes.
As shown in fig. 3, the indoor control circuit 31 includes a storage unit 31a and an indoor control unit 31 b.
The storage unit 31a stores data received via the remote controller signal transmission/reception unit 26, detection values of the sensors, and the like, in addition to a predetermined program.
The indoor control unit 31b controls the indoor fan motor 16c, the horizontal louver motor 24, the vertical louver motor 25, and the like based on the data stored in the storage unit 31 a.
The outdoor unit Uo includes an outdoor temperature sensor 28 and an outdoor control circuit 32 in addition to the above configuration.
The outdoor temperature sensor 28 is a sensor for detecting the outdoor temperature, and is provided at a predetermined position of the outdoor unit Uo. Although not shown in fig. 3, the outdoor unit Uo further includes a sensor for detecting the discharge temperature of the compressor 11 (see fig. 1). The detection values of the sensors are output to the outdoor control circuit 32.
Although not shown, the outdoor control circuit 32 is configured as an electronic circuit including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, various interfaces, and the like, and is connected to the indoor control circuit 31 via a communication line. As shown in fig. 3, the outdoor control circuit 32 includes a storage unit 32a and an outdoor control unit 32 b.
The storage unit 32a stores data and the like received from the indoor control circuit 31 in addition to a predetermined program. The outdoor control unit 32b controls the compressor motor 11a, the outdoor fan motor 13a, the expansion valve 14, and the like based on the data stored in the storage unit 32 a. The "control unit 30" that controls at least the compressor 11 (see fig. 1) and the expansion valve 14 includes an indoor control circuit 31 and an outdoor control circuit 32.
Next, the processing of the control unit 30 related to the freeze cleaning of the indoor heat exchanger 15 will be described with reference to fig. 4.
Processing of control section
Fig. 4 is a flowchart of processing executed by the control unit 30 of the air conditioner 100 according to the first embodiment (see fig. 3 as appropriate).
Although not shown in fig. 4, the control unit 30 may start the process of step S101 when the sum of the execution times of the air conditioning operation integrated from the end of the previous freeze cleaning (S101 to S104) reaches a predetermined time. Further, when a button (not shown) for freeze washing of the remote controller 40 is pressed by the user, the control unit 30 may start the process of step S101.
In step S101, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the indoor temperature T, which is the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor 27a, is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value T1. Here, the first predetermined value T1 is a threshold value that serves as a criterion for determining whether or not to perform the freezing process of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (S102), and is set in advance.
Further, it is preferable that the control unit 30 drives the indoor fan 16 when detecting the indoor temperature (the temperature of the space to be air-conditioned) using the indoor temperature sensor 27a (see fig. 3). This can stir the air in the room, thereby reducing an error when the room temperature sensor 27a detects the room temperature.
When the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 in step S101 (yes in S101), the control unit 30 ends the series of processes (completion) without performing the freezing process of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (S102). Note that even when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1, freezing may be performed, and this example (second and third embodiments) will be described below.
On the other hand, when the indoor temperature T is less than the first predetermined value T1 in step S101 (no in S101), the control unit 30 freezes the indoor heat exchanger 15 in step S102 (freezing process).
However, in the air conditioner 100, the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the changeable set temperature (temperature set value of the space to be air-conditioned) are set in advance in the operation of the remote controller 40 by the user and stored in the storage unit 31 a. For example, the temperature can be controlled to 10 ℃ (lower limit value T) by the operation of the remote controller 40 during the cooling operation or the heating operationmin) Above and 32 ℃ (upper limit)Value TMAX) The set temperature was changed within the following range.
In the present embodiment, the first predetermined value T1 used in the determination process of step S101 is set to an upper limit value T that is higher than the set temperature that can be changed by the remote controller 40 during the cooling operation or the heating operationMAXThe lower value (for example, 32 ℃ C.) is predetermined. In the present embodiment, a case where the first predetermined value T1 is set to 30 ℃ will be described as an example.
Fig. 5 shows the first predetermined value T1 and the upper limit value T related to the indoor temperatureMAXThe wet air line profile (see figure 3 as appropriate).
In addition, the horizontal axis of fig. 5 is the dry bulb temperature of air (i.e., the indoor temperature). The vertical axis of fig. 5 is the absolute humidity of the air. The upper right curve (solid line and dotted line) of fig. 5 is a set of points at which the relative humidity (for example, 80%) of the air is equal. In the example of fig. 5, the upper limit value T of the set temperature that can be changed by the remote controller 40 during the cooling operation or the heating operationMAXAt 32 deg.C, the first predetermined value T1 was set to 30 deg.C.
For example, the dry bulb temperature of the indoor air is 35 ℃ higher than the first predetermined value T1, and the absolute humidity (water vapor with respect to the mass of 1kg of dry air) thereof is about 0.029[ kg/kg (da) ] in the state H of 80% relative humidity.
If the indoor heat exchanger 15 freezes in the air in the state H of high absolute humidity, the air near the indoor unit Ui is cooled concomitantly. As a result, dew condensation occurs on the inner and outer surfaces of the housing base 19 (see fig. 2), and depending on the case, dripping may occur. Further, as the indoor temperature T increases, the amount of water vapor that can be contained in the indoor air (absolute humidity when the relative humidity is 100%) increases, and water drops are likely to occur during freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15.
For example, under the condition exceeding the absolute humidity in the case where the dry bulb temperature of the indoor air is 30 ℃ (the first predetermined value T1) and the relative humidity is 100%, the water drop may be generated.
Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 (yes in S101 of fig. 4), the control unit 30 does not perform the freezing process of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (S102). That is, when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1, the control unit 30 should not perform the freezing process in consideration of the possibility that the absolute humidity of the indoor air is high (i.e., water drops in the indoor unit Ui). This can prevent dripping of water from the indoor unit Ui.
Note that, when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1, the control unit 30 may shorten the duration of the freezing process or reduce the rotation speed of the compressor motor 11a (see fig. 3) during the freezing process, which is described in the second and third embodiments.
On the other hand, in fig. 5, in the case of the state J in which the dry bulb temperature of the indoor air is 20 ℃ lower than the first predetermined value T1 and the relative humidity is 80%, the absolute humidity thereof is about 0.012[ kg/kg (da) ]. In this way, in the air with low absolute humidity, even if the indoor heat exchanger 15 freezes, dripping water is substantially unlikely to be generated in the indoor unit Ui.
Further, in the state K where the dry bulb temperature is 20 ℃ and the relative humidity is 100%, the absolute humidity is about 0.015[ kg/kg (DA) ], which is not so high. That is, in the state where the dry bulb temperature is 20 ℃, regardless of the high or low of the relative humidity, it is substantially impossible to generate water drops in the indoor unit Ui in the freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15. In this way, the first predetermined value T1 is set in advance so that no water drip is generated in the indoor unit Ui regardless of whether the relative humidity is high or low.
Returning again to fig. 4, the description is continued.
When the indoor temperature T is less than the first predetermined value T1 in step S101 (no in S101), the control unit 30 freezes the indoor heat exchanger 15 in step S102. That is, the control unit 30 causes the indoor heat exchanger 15 to function as an evaporator, and causes the indoor heat exchanger 15 to freeze by frosting moisture in the air on the indoor heat exchanger 15.
To describe step S102 in more detail, the controller 30 drives the compressor 11 (see fig. 1) such that, for example, the opening degree of the expansion valve 14 (see fig. 1) is smaller than the opening degree during the cooling operation. As a result, the refrigerant having a low pressure and a low evaporation temperature flows into the indoor heat exchanger 15, moisture in the air is frozen in the indoor heat exchanger 15, and frost and ice on the surface of the indoor heat exchanger 15 grow. The opening degree of the expansion valve 14 in the freezing process may be substantially the same as the opening degree in the cooling operation.
Fig. 6 is an explanatory diagram relating to switching between on and off of the compressor 11 and the indoor fan 16 (see fig. 1 as appropriate).
In addition, the horizontal axis of fig. 6 shows time. The vertical axis of fig. 6 shows the on/off of the compressor 11 and the on/off of the indoor fan 16. In the example of fig. 6, after a predetermined air conditioning operation is performed up to time t1, the compressor 11 and the indoor fan 16 are driven (i.e., in the on state). After that, at time t1 to t2, the compressor 11 and the indoor fan 16 are stopped, and thereafter, the indoor heat exchanger 15 is frozen at time t2 to t3 (step S102 in fig. 4).
In the example of fig. 6, the indoor fan 16 is stopped during freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15. This prevents cold air from being blown into the room, and allows the indoor heat exchanger 15 to be frozen without impairing the comfort of the user. Further, the processing after time t3 is explained below.
Further, the control unit 30 may drive the indoor fan 16 without stopping the indoor fan 16 during freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15.
Next, in step S103 in fig. 4, the control unit 30 defrosts the indoor heat exchanger 15. For example, the control unit 30 stops the indoor fan 16, the compressor 11, and the like. As a result, frost and ice in the indoor heat exchanger 15 are naturally thawed at room temperature, and a large amount of water flows down the dew receiving pan 18 along the fins f (see fig. 2). Further, dust adhering to the indoor heat exchanger 15 is washed away.
Next, in step S104 in fig. 4, the control unit 30 dries the indoor heat exchanger 15. In the example of fig. 6, after defrosting of the indoor heat exchanger 15, the heating operation and the blowing operation are sequentially performed as the "drying" operation at times t4 to t 6. This can suppress the growth of bacteria such as mold in the indoor unit Ui. After the drying operation in step S104, the control unit 30 ends a series of processes related to freeze washing (completion).
Note that, although not shown in fig. 4, when the indoor temperature T (the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor 27 a) is equal to or lower than a second predetermined value T2 (e.g., 10 ℃) which is lower than the first predetermined value T1 (e.g., 30 ℃), the control unit 30 preferably does not perform the freezing process (S102). If the indoor temperature T is too low, the amount of moisture that can be contained per unit volume of indoor air is too small, and frost is less likely to form on the indoor heat exchanger 15 in the freezing process (S102).
The second predetermined value T2 is set to a value lower than the first predetermined value T1 and is set in advance based on the time and power consumption required for the freezing process of the indoor heat exchanger 15. The second predetermined value T2 may be a lower limit value T of the set temperature that can be changed by the remote controller 40 during the cooling operation or the heating operationmin(e.g., 10 ℃ C.) or higher. Thus, even when the indoor temperature T is within the range of the set temperature that can be changed by the remote controller 40, if the value is too low, the freezing process can be appropriately stopped. The magnitude of the second predetermined value T2 is not limited to the lower limit value TminAbove, it may be less than the lower limit value Tmin。
When the indoor temperature T (the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor 27 a) is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1, the control unit 30 preferably performs the cooling operation or the blowing operation when the freezing process is not performed (S102). For example, when the user presses a button (not shown) of the freeze washing of the remote controller 40, the control unit 30 performs the cooling operation or the blowing operation instead of the freeze washing when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1.
Thus, during the cooling operation, the indoor heat exchanger 15 is flushed with the condensed water generated in the indoor heat exchanger 15. In the air blowing operation, the interior of the indoor unit Ui is dry, and therefore the indoor unit Ui is in a clean state. In this way, the indoor unit Ui can be cleaned in a different way from the freezing process. Further, compared to a case where no operating sound of the air conditioner 100 is generated even if the remote controller 40 is operated, the user can be less uncomfortable.
Effect
According to the first embodiment, when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 (yes in S101 of fig. 4), the control unit 30 does not perform the freezing process (complete) of the indoor heat exchanger 15. This can prevent freeze washing from being performed in a state where the indoor air contains a large amount of moisture. Therefore, the indoor unit Ui can be prevented from dripping while the indoor heat exchanger 15 is frozen. As described above, according to the first embodiment, the air conditioner 100 can be provided in which the indoor heat exchanger 15 is kept clean and water dripping is suppressed.
The first predetermined value T1 used for the determination of whether or not the indoor heat exchanger 15 is frozen (S101 in fig. 4) is lower than the upper limit value of the set temperature that can be changed by the remote controller 40. Therefore, for example, by appropriately setting the first predetermined value T1 based on the absolute humidity of the air whose dew point is the first predetermined value T1 (absolute humidity when the relative humidity is 100%), it is possible to suppress dripping in the indoor unit Ui at the time of freeze washing.
As described above, the detection value of the indoor temperature is used to determine whether or not the freezing process of the indoor heat exchanger 15 is performed. On the other hand, since it is not particularly necessary to detect the indoor humidity, even in an inexpensive air conditioner in which the indoor unit Ui is not provided with a humidity sensor, the indoor heat exchanger 15 can be freeze-cleaned.
Second embodiment
The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the control unit 30 shortens the duration of the freezing process to be shorter than normal when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1. That is, in the first embodiment, the control unit 30 does not perform the freezing process when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1, but in the second embodiment, the control unit 30 performs the freezing process even when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1.
Other configurations (configuration of the air conditioner 100, etc.; see fig. 1 to 3) are the same as those of the first embodiment. Therefore, portions different from those of the first embodiment will be described, and description of overlapping portions will be omitted.
Fig. 7 is a flowchart of processing executed by the control unit 30 of the air conditioner 100 according to the second embodiment (see fig. 3 as appropriate).
Steps S101 to S104 in fig. 7 are the same as those in the first embodiment (see fig. 4), and the description thereof will be omitted. When the indoor temperature T, which is the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor 27a, is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 in step S101 (yes in S101), the process of the control unit 30 proceeds to step S201.
In step S201, the control unit 30 shortens the freezing time of the indoor heat exchanger 15. That is, the control unit 30 makes the duration of the freezing process (S202) of the indoor heat exchanger 15 shorter than when the indoor temperature T (the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor 27 a) is less than the first predetermined value T1.
Next, in step S202, the control unit 30 freezes the indoor heat exchanger 15. That is, the control unit 30 shortens the time of the freezing process in step S202 compared to the normal case (S102). Thus, even in a situation where the amount of moisture contained per unit volume of indoor air is large, the indoor heat exchanger 15 can be frozen while suppressing dripping in the indoor unit Ui. After freezing the indoor heat exchanger 15 (S202), the control unit 30 sequentially performs defrosting of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (S103) and drying (S104), and then ends the series of processes (completion).
Effect
According to the second embodiment, when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 (yes in S101 of fig. 7), the control unit 30 shortens the freezing time of the indoor heat exchanger 15 even when the freezing process is performed (S201). Accordingly, even in a situation where the indoor temperature is high, the freeze cleaning of the indoor heat exchanger 15 can be performed while suppressing dripping in the indoor unit Ui.
Third embodiment
The third embodiment is different from the second embodiment in that the control unit 30 performs the freezing process even when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1, but the third embodiment makes the rotation speed of the compressor motor 11a during the freezing process smaller than the normal rotation speed. Other configurations (configuration of the air conditioner 100, etc.; see fig. 1 to 3) are the same as those of the second embodiment. Therefore, portions different from those of the second embodiment will be described, and description of overlapping portions will be omitted.
Fig. 8 is a flowchart of processing executed by the control unit 30 of the air conditioner 100 according to the third embodiment (see fig. 3 as appropriate).
Steps S101 to S104 in fig. 8 are the same as those in the first embodiment (see fig. 4), and the description thereof will be omitted. When the indoor temperature T, which is the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor 27a, is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 in step S101 (yes in S101), the process of the control unit 30 proceeds to step S301.
In step S301, the control unit 30 sets the rotation speed of the compressor motor 11a to be reduced. That is, the control unit 30 sets the rotation speed of the compressor motor 11a in the freezing process (S302) to be lower than the case where the indoor temperature T (the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor 27 a) is lower than the first predetermined value T1.
Next, in step S302, the control unit 30 freezes the indoor heat exchanger 15. That is, the control unit 30 drives the compressor motor 11a at a rotation speed smaller than that in the normal freezing process to freeze the indoor heat exchanger 15.
In the freezing process, the control unit 30 may rotate the compressor motor 11a at a constant speed, and may perform feedback control. When the control unit 30 performs the feedback control of the compressor motor 11a, the following means that the compressor motor 11a is driven at a "smaller rotation speed" than the rotation speed in the normal freezing process.
That is, the control unit 30 drives the compressor motor 11a at a predetermined rotation speed when the detection value of each of the sensors other than the indoor temperature sensor 27a among the plurality of sensors (the indoor temperature sensor 27a, the outdoor temperature sensor 28, the not-shown discharge temperature sensor, and the like) used for the feedback control of the compressor motor 11a in the freezing process is a predetermined value and the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor 27a is smaller than the first predetermined value T1. On the other hand, when the detection value of each sensor other than the indoor temperature sensor 27a is the predetermined value described above and the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor 27a is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value T1, the control unit 30 drives the compressor motor 11a at a rotation speed lower than the predetermined rotation speed described above.
As a result, during freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15, the flow rate of the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circuit Q (see fig. 1) is reduced, and the amount of heat exchange between the refrigerant and the air is reduced as compared with the normal freezing time (S102). Therefore, even in a situation where the amount of moisture contained per unit volume of indoor air is large, the indoor heat exchanger 15 can be frozen while suppressing dripping in the indoor unit Ui.
After freezing the indoor heat exchanger 15 in this way (S302), the control unit 30 sequentially performs defrosting of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (S103) and drying (S104), and then ends the series of processes (completion).
Effect
According to the third embodiment, when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 (yes in S101 of fig. 8), the control unit 30 sets the rotation speed of the compressor motor 11a at the time of freezing the indoor heat exchanger 15 to be lower than normal even when the freezing process is performed (S301). Accordingly, even in a situation where the indoor temperature is high, the freeze cleaning of the indoor heat exchanger 15 can be performed while suppressing dripping in the indoor unit Ui.
Fourth embodiment
The fourth embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that, when the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation has been performed, the control unit 30 freezes the indoor heat exchanger 15 even if the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1. Other configurations (configuration of the air conditioner 100, etc.; see fig. 1 to 3) are the same as those of the first embodiment. Therefore, portions different from those of the first embodiment will be described, and description of overlapping portions will be omitted.
Fig. 9 is a flowchart of processing executed by the control unit 30 of the air conditioner 100 according to the fourth embodiment (see fig. 3 as appropriate).
Steps S101 to S104 in fig. 9 are the same as those in the first embodiment (see fig. 4), and the description thereof will be omitted. When the indoor temperature T, which is the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor 27a, is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 in step S101 (yes in S101), the process of the control unit 30 proceeds to step S401.
In step S401, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation has been performed before freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15. Specifically, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the operation mode of the air conditioning operation performed immediately after step S401 is the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation. For example, when the cooling operation is performed, moisture contained in the air condenses on the indoor heat exchanger 15, and the condensed water is discharged to the outside through the dew condensation receiving pan 18 (see fig. 2) and the dew condensation receiving hose (not shown) in this order. Therefore, after the cooling operation, the amount of moisture contained in the indoor air per unit volume is often reduced. The same applies to the case where a dehumidification operation (so-called cooling dehumidification and reheating dehumidification) is performed.
In step S401, in addition to the condition that the operation mode of the air conditioning operation performed most recently is the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation, a condition that the duration of the above-described cooling operation or the like is a predetermined time or more may be added.
Further, when the operation mode of the air conditioning operation performed recently is the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation, a condition that the elapsed time from the end of the cooling operation or the like is within a predetermined time may be added.
In step S401, the control unit 30 may perform the following processing. For example, permission flags (not shown) that establish the following subject matter: after the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation is performed for a predetermined time or more, the control unit 30 may perform freeze cleaning thereafter. When the permission flag is set in step S401, the control unit 30 may freeze the indoor heat exchanger 15.
If the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation is performed before the freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15 in step S401 (yes in S401), the process of the control unit 30 proceeds to step S102. In step S102, the control unit 30 freezes the indoor heat exchanger 15. That is, the control unit 30 performs the freezing process as in the case where the indoor temperature T is less than the first predetermined value T1 with respect to the freezing time of the indoor heat exchanger 15 and the rotation speed of the compressor motor 11a (S102).
As described above, since the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation is performed (S401: yes), even if the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 (S101: yes), the amount of moisture contained in the indoor air per unit volume is not large. Therefore, in the freezing process of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (S102), there is almost no fear that water drops may occur in the indoor unit Ui.
In step S102, after freezing the indoor heat exchanger 15, the control unit 30 sequentially performs defrosting (S103) and drying (S104) of the indoor heat exchanger 15, and then ends the series of processes (completion).
On the other hand, if the cooling operation is not performed and the dehumidifying operation is not performed before the freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15 in step S401 (no in S401), the control unit 30 ends the series of processes without performing the freezing process of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (S102) (completion). This is because: if the indoor heat exchanger 15 is frozen in a state where a large amount of moisture is contained in the indoor air per unit volume, there is a possibility that water drops may be generated in the indoor unit Ui.
Effect
According to the fourth embodiment, when the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation is performed before freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (yes in S401), the control unit 30 freezes the indoor heat exchanger 15 (S102) even when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 (yes in S101). As a result, the indoor heat exchanger 15 can be freeze-cleaned in a state where the amount of moisture contained in the indoor air per unit volume is not large.
Fifth embodiment
The fifth embodiment is different from the fourth embodiment in that the control unit 30 does not freeze the indoor heat exchanger 15 when the temperature difference between the indoor temperature and the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 15 is equal to or less than the third predetermined value in the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation performed before freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15. Other structures are the same as those of the fourth embodiment. Therefore, portions different from those of the fourth embodiment will be described, and description of overlapping portions will be omitted.
Fig. 10 is a flowchart of processing executed by the control unit 30 of the air conditioner 100 according to the fifth embodiment (see fig. 3 as appropriate).
Steps S101 to S104 and S401 in fig. 10 are the same as those in the fourth embodiment (see fig. 9), and the description thereof will be omitted. When the indoor temperature T, which is the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor 27a, is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 in step S101 (yes in S101), the process of the control unit 30 proceeds to step S401.
In step S401, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation has been performed before freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15. If the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation has been performed before freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (yes in S401), the process of the control unit 30 proceeds to step S501.
In step S501, the control unit 30 determines the indoor temperature T and the temperature T of the indoor heat exchanger 15evpTemperature difference Δ T (═ T-T)evp) Whether or not it is below the third predetermined value Δ T3. That is, the control unit 30 determines the indoor temperature T and the temperature T of the indoor heat exchanger 15 when the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation has been performed before the freezing process (S102)evpWhether the difference Δ T is equal to or smaller than the third predetermined value Δ T3.
The third predetermined value Δ T3 is a threshold value that serves as a criterion for determining whether or not to perform the freezing process of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (S102), and is set in advance. The temperature T of the indoor heat exchanger 15 is detected by an indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 27b (see fig. 3)evp。
Further, the respective temperatures T, T of step S501evpThe detection value may be a value after the cooling operation or the like is performed (for example, after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the cooling operation or the like), or may be a time average value thereof. And, each temperature T, TevpThe detection value may be a detection value at a predetermined timing from the end of the cooling operation or the like to the start of the processing of step S401, or may be a time average value thereof.
In step S501, the indoor temperature T and the temperature T of the indoor heat exchanger 15 are comparedevpIf the temperature difference Δ T is equal to or less than the third predetermined value Δ T3 (yes in S501), the control unit 30 ends the series of processes (completion) without performing the freezing process of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (S102).
In addition, the method can be used for producing a composite materialThe greater the amount of moisture contained per unit volume of indoor air, the greater the proportion of latent heat occupied in the amount of heat exchange between the indoor air and the refrigerant. That is, since the refrigerant absorbs heat required for condensation of moisture contained in the indoor air, it is difficult for the indoor heat exchanger 15 to be cooled. As a result, the indoor temperature T and the temperature T of the indoor heat exchanger 15evpTemperature difference Δ T (═ T-T)evp) Tends to become smaller.
On the other hand, in step S501, the indoor temperature T and the temperature T of the indoor heat exchanger 15 are setevpIf the temperature difference Δ T is larger than the third predetermined value Δ T3 (no in S501), the process of the control unit 30 proceeds to step S102. For example, when the cooling operation is performed in a situation where the amount of moisture contained in the indoor air per unit volume is not large, the proportion of latent heat occupied in the amount of heat exchange between the refrigerant and the air is small. That is, since the refrigerant absorbs less heat from moisture contained in the indoor air, the indoor heat exchanger 15 is easily cooled. As a result, the temperature difference Δ T becomes a large value.
Then, in step S102, after freezing the indoor heat exchanger 15, the control unit 30 performs defrosting (S103) and drying (S104) of the indoor heat exchanger 15 in order, and then ends the series of processes (completion).
Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship of the rotation speed of the compressor motor 11a and the third predetermined value Δ T3.
The horizontal axis in fig. 11 indicates the rotation speed of the compressor motor 11a during the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation performed before the freezing process. The vertical axis of fig. 11 is the third predetermined value Δ T3 described above (S501 of fig. 10).
As shown in fig. 11, the third predetermined value Δ T3 is set according to the rotation speed n of the compressor motor 11a in the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation that has been performed before the freezing process. For example, when the compressor motor 11a is set at the rotational speed n in the cooling operationpWhen the motor is driven, the control unit 30 sets the number of revolutions n corresponding to the number of revolutionspCorresponding third predetermined value Δ T3p。
Preferably, the third predetermined value Δ T3 is increased as the rotation speed of the compressor motor 11a during the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation is increased. This is because: as the rotation speed of the compressor motor 11a increases, the flow rate of the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circuit Q (see fig. 1) increases, and the indoor heat exchanger 15 (evaporator) is cooled more easily.
As the rotation speed of the compressor motor 11a, an average rotation speed of the compressor motor 11a in the cooling operation or the like may be used. Data corresponding to the straight line m in fig. 11 is stored in advance in the storage unit 31a (see fig. 3) as a mathematical expression or a data table.
Effect
According to the fifth embodiment, even when the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation is performed before the freezing process of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (yes in S401 of fig. 10), the indoor temperature T and the temperature T of the indoor heat exchanger 15 are measuredevpIf the temperature difference Δ T is equal to or less than the third predetermined value Δ T3 (yes in S501), the control unit 30 does not perform the freezing process of the indoor heat exchanger 15. Accordingly, when the indoor air per unit volume contains a large amount of moisture, the indoor heat exchanger 15 is not frozen, and water drops in the indoor unit Ui can be prevented.
Sixth embodiment
The sixth embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the control unit 30 freezes the indoor heat exchanger 15 after performing the cooling operation when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1. Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment (configuration of the air conditioner 100, etc.: see fig. 1 to 3). Therefore, portions different from those of the first embodiment will be described, and description of overlapping portions will be omitted.
Fig. 12 is a flowchart of processing executed by the control unit 30 of the air conditioner 100 according to the sixth embodiment (see fig. 3 as appropriate).
Steps S101 to S104 in fig. 12 are the same as those in the first embodiment (see fig. 4), and the description thereof is omitted. When the indoor temperature T, which is the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor 27a, is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 in step S101 (yes in S101), the process of the control unit 30 proceeds to step S601.
In step S601, the control unit 30 executes the cooling operation. Thus, the indoor heat exchanger 15 functions as an evaporator, and moisture contained in the air taken in by the indoor unit Ui is condensed on the indoor heat exchanger 15. Then, the dew condensation water in the indoor heat exchanger 15 is discharged to the outside through the dew condensation receiving pan 18 (see fig. 2) and a dew condensation receiving hose (not shown) in this order. As a result, the amount of moisture contained in the indoor air per unit volume is reduced, and dripping in the indoor unit Ui can be suppressed in the freezing process (S102) performed later.
Next, in step S102, the control unit 30 freezes the indoor heat exchanger 15. As described above, since the cooling operation is performed before the indoor heat exchanger 15 is frozen (S601), there is almost no possibility that water drops may occur in the indoor unit Ui during the freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15. In step S102, after freezing the indoor heat exchanger 15, the control unit 30 sequentially performs defrosting (S103) and drying (S104) of the indoor heat exchanger 15, and then ends the series of processes (completion).
In addition, control unit 30 may perform a dehumidification operation instead of the cooling operation in step S601. In such a dehumidification operation, as in the cooling operation, the amount of moisture contained in the indoor air can be reduced.
Effect
According to the sixth embodiment, when the indoor temperature T (the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor 27 a) is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 (yes in S101), the control unit 30 performs the freezing process of the indoor heat exchanger 15 after the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation (S601) (S102). Thus, the control unit 30 can perform the freezing process of the indoor heat exchanger 15 in a state where the amount of moisture contained in the indoor air per unit volume is reduced (S102). As a result, the occurrence of water drops in the indoor unit Ui during the freezing process can be appropriately suppressed.
Seventh embodiment
The seventh embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the control unit 30 determines whether or not to freeze the indoor heat exchanger 15 based on outdoor humidity or the like based on weather information. Other structures are the same as those of the first embodiment. Therefore, portions different from those of the first embodiment will be described, and description of overlapping portions will be omitted.
Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram of an air conditioner 100A according to the seventh embodiment.
As shown in fig. 13, the indoor unit UAi of the air conditioner 100A includes a weather information acquisition unit 29 in addition to the configuration described in the first embodiment (see fig. 3). Instead of the indoor unit UAi, the outdoor unit Uo may be provided with the weather information acquisition unit 29.
The weather information acquiring unit 29 has a function of acquiring weather information including outdoor humidity in the vicinity of the air conditioner 100 from the server 50 via a network (not shown).
For example, at the time of initial setting of the air conditioner 100A, the user operates the remote controller 40 to input the positional information (the region name of the installation location, etc.) of the air conditioner 100A, and the positional information is stored in the storage unit 31 a.
When the weather information acquiring unit 30 acquires weather information from the server 50, the position information of the air conditioner 100A is read from the storage unit 31a and transmitted to the server 50 via a network (not shown). The server 50 that has received the position information from the control unit 30 transmits weather information in the vicinity of the air conditioner 100A to the control unit 30 via a network (not shown). The weather information includes outdoor temperature and outdoor humidity. The control unit 30 that receives weather information from the server 50 stores the weather information in the storage unit 31 a.
Fig. 14 is a flowchart of processing executed by the control unit 30 of the air conditioner according to the seventh embodiment (see fig. 13 as appropriate).
Steps S101 to S104 in fig. 14 are the same as those in the first embodiment (see fig. 4), and the description thereof is omitted.
In step S701, the control unit 30 acquires weather information including outdoor humidity from the server 50 via the weather information acquisition unit 29. Then, the control unit 30 stores the weather information in the storage unit 31 a. The control unit 30 may periodically perform the process of step S701, or may perform the process when the weather information is used for air conditioning control.
Next, in step S101, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the indoor temperature T, which is the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor 27a, is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value T1. When the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 (yes in S101), the process of the control unit 30 proceeds to step S702.
In step S702, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the outdoor humidity U (the relative humidity or the absolute humidity of the outdoor air) included in the weather information is equal to or lower than a fourth predetermined value U4. The fourth predetermined value U4 is a threshold value that serves as a criterion for determining whether or not the indoor heat exchanger 15 is frozen, and is set in advance. Also, the lower the outdoor humidity U, the lower the indoor humidity tends to be.
If the outdoor humidity U is equal to or lower than the fourth predetermined value U4 in step S702 (yes in S702), the process of the control unit 30 proceeds to step S102.
In step S102, the control unit 30 freezes the indoor heat exchanger 15. That is, the control unit 30 performs the freezing process as in the case where the indoor temperature T is less than the first predetermined value T1 with respect to the freezing time of the indoor heat exchanger 15 and the rotation speed of the compressor motor 11a (S102).
As described above, since the outdoor humidity U is equal to or lower than the fourth predetermined value, there is a high possibility that the indoor humidity is also low. That is, since the amount of moisture contained per unit volume of indoor air is small, there is little concern that water drops may be generated in the indoor unit UAi during freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15.
In step S102, after freezing the indoor heat exchanger 15, the control unit 30 sequentially performs defrosting (S103) and drying (S104) of the indoor heat exchanger 15, and then ends the series of processes (completion).
On the other hand, in step S702, when the outdoor humidity U is higher than the fourth predetermined value U4 (no in S702), the control unit 30 ends the series of processes (completion) without performing the freezing process of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (S102). This is because: in the case where the outdoor humidity U is higher than the fourth predetermined value U4, the indoor humidity may be high.
Effect
According to the seventh embodiment, even when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 (yes in S101), the control unit 30 freezes the indoor heat exchanger 15 when the outdoor humidity U is equal to or lower than the fourth predetermined value U4 (yes in S702) (S102). This can perform freeze cleaning of the indoor heat exchanger 15 while suppressing dripping in the indoor unit UAi.
Further, according to the seventh embodiment, since it is not necessary to provide a humidity sensor (not shown) for detecting the humidity of the outside air in the outdoor unit Uo, it is possible to reduce the cost.
Modifications of the examples
The air conditioner 100 and the like of the present invention have been described above in the respective embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the above description and can be variously modified.
For example, instead of freezing or thawing the indoor heat exchanger 15, the control unit 30 may cause the indoor heat exchanger 15 to function as an evaporator to cause condensation on the indoor heat exchanger 15. For example, the control unit 30 adjusts the opening degree of the expansion valve 14 so that the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 15 is equal to or lower than the dew point of the indoor air and higher than a predetermined freezing temperature (the temperature at which the indoor heat exchanger 15 starts freezing). This causes dew condensation in the indoor heat exchanger 15, and the dew condensation water flushes the indoor heat exchanger 15.
In the first embodiment, the case where it is determined whether or not the indoor temperature T at the time of the processing in step S101 (see fig. 4) is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the determination processing in step S101 may be performed based on the indoor temperature T (average value or the like) within a predetermined time before the determination processing in step S101.
Even when the indoor temperature T (the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor 27 a) is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1, the control unit 30 may execute the freezing process when the extent or rate of decrease in the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than a fifth predetermined value during the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation performed before the freezing process of the indoor heat exchanger 15. In this case, the control unit 30 performs the freezing process as in the case where the indoor temperature T is less than the first predetermined value T1 with respect to the freezing time of the indoor heat exchanger 15 and the rotation speed of the compressor motor 11 a.
The "reduction width" of the indoor temperature T refers to a reduction width of the indoor temperature T for a predetermined time during which the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation continues. The "reduction rate" of the indoor temperature T is also the same.
For example, when the temperature difference between the indoor temperature T and the dew point is large, the proportion of latent heat occupied in the heat exchange amount between the refrigerant and the air is small, so that the indoor air is easily cooled. As a result, the reduction width or the reduction rate of the indoor temperature T is often equal to or greater than the fifth predetermined value. In such a case, since the indoor air is highly likely to be less humid, there is almost no fear that water drops will be generated in the indoor unit Ui even if freeze washing is performed.
In the sixth embodiment, the following case is explained: when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1 (yes in S101 of fig. 12), the control unit 30 performs the freezing process (S102) after performing the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation (S601), but the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, regardless of the level of the indoor temperature T, the control unit 30 may perform the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation before the freezing process (S102). This can simplify the processing of the control unit 30 and suppress the occurrence of water drops in the indoor unit Ui during the freezing process.
In the embodiments, the set temperature that can be changed by the remote controller 40 in either the cooling operation or the heating operation is 10 ℃ or more and 32 ℃ or less, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the range of the set temperature that can be changed during the cooling operation may be different from the range of the set temperature that can be changed during the heating operation. In this case, the control unit 30 executes the determination process of step S101 (see fig. 4 and the like) based on the upper limit value of the set temperature during the cooling operation or the upper limit value of the set temperature during the heating operation.
In addition to the remote controller 40, the air conditioning operation of the air conditioner 100 may be performed based on an operation of a mobile terminal (not shown) such as a mobile phone, a smartphone, or a tablet computer.
Further, the embodiments can be combined as appropriate. For example, the second embodiment and the third embodiment may be combined. That is, when the indoor temperature T is equal to or higher than the first predetermined value T1, the control unit 30 may shorten the freezing time of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (second embodiment) and reduce the rotation speed of the compressor motor 11a during freezing of the indoor heat exchanger 15 (third embodiment).
In each of the embodiments, the indoor unit Ui (see fig. 1) and the outdoor unit Uo (see fig. 1) are each provided with one unit, but the present invention is not limited to this. That is, a plurality of indoor units connected in parallel may be provided, and a plurality of outdoor units connected in parallel may be provided.
The air conditioner 100 described in each embodiment can be applied to various air conditioners other than a wall-mounted air conditioner.
The embodiments are described in detail to explain the present invention easily and understandably, and are not limited to having all the configurations described. Further, a part of the configuration of each embodiment can be added, deleted, or replaced with another configuration.
The above-described mechanisms and structures are illustrative of the mechanisms and structures that are considered necessary for the description, and are not limited to all the mechanisms and structures that are necessary for the product.
Description of the symbols
100. 100A-air conditioner, 11-compressor, 11 a-compressor motor (compressor motor), 12-outdoor heat exchanger (condenser/evaporator), 13-outdoor fan, 14-expansion valve, 15-indoor heat exchanger (evaporator/condenser), 16-indoor fan, 27 a-indoor temperature sensor, 27 b-indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor, 28-outdoor temperature sensor, 29-meteorological information acquisition section, 30-control section, 40-remote controller, 50-server, Q-refrigerant circuit.
The claims (modification according to treaty clause 19)
An (modified) air conditioner, comprising:
a refrigerant circuit in which a refrigerant circulates through a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator in this order;
a control unit for controlling at least the compressor and the expansion valve; and
an indoor temperature sensor that detects a temperature of the air conditioning target space,
one of the condenser and the evaporator is an outdoor heat exchanger, and the other is an indoor heat exchanger,
when a user presses an execution button of a freezing process by a remote controller, the control unit causes the indoor heat exchanger to function as the evaporator to perform the freezing process for freezing the indoor heat exchanger,
when the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, the control unit does not perform the freezing process,
the first predetermined value is lower than an upper limit value of a set temperature that can be changed by the remote controller during a cooling operation or a heating operation.
(modified) the air conditioner according to claim 1,
the control unit does not perform the freezing process when a detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or less than a second predetermined value lower than the first predetermined value.
(modified) the air conditioner according to claim 1,
the control unit executes the freezing process when the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation is performed before the freezing process even when the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value.
(modified) an air conditioner, comprising:
a refrigerant circuit in which a refrigerant circulates through a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator in this order;
a control unit for controlling at least the compressor and the expansion valve; and
an indoor temperature sensor that detects a temperature of the air conditioning target space,
one of the condenser and the evaporator is an outdoor heat exchanger, and the other is an indoor heat exchanger,
further comprises an indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger,
the control unit performs a freezing process for freezing the indoor heat exchanger by causing the indoor heat exchanger to function as the evaporator,
the control unit does not perform the freezing process when a difference between a detection value of the indoor temperature sensor and a detection value of the indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor during the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation performed before the freezing process is equal to or less than a third predetermined value when the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value,
the first predetermined value is lower than an upper limit value of a set temperature that can be changed by the remote controller during a cooling operation or a heating operation.
(modified) the air conditioner according to claim 4,
the control unit sets the third predetermined value in accordance with the rotation speed of the motor of the compressor in the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation performed before the freezing process,
the third predetermined value is increased as the rotation speed of the motor of the compressor is increased.
6. The air conditioner according to claim 1,
when the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value, the control unit performs a cooling operation or an air blowing operation when the freezing process is not performed.
7. The air conditioner according to claim 1,
an indoor fan disposed in the vicinity of the indoor heat exchanger,
the control unit drives the indoor fan when the indoor temperature sensor detects the temperature of the air-conditioned space.
An air conditioner (modified), comprising:
a refrigerant circuit in which a refrigerant circulates through a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator in this order;
a control unit for controlling at least the compressor and the expansion valve;
an indoor temperature sensor that detects a temperature of an air conditioning target space; and
a weather information acquisition unit that acquires weather information including outdoor humidity in the vicinity of the air conditioner from the server,
one of the condenser and the evaporator is an outdoor heat exchanger, and the other is an indoor heat exchanger,
the control unit performs a freezing process for freezing the indoor heat exchanger by causing the indoor heat exchanger to function as the evaporator,
the control unit executes the freezing process when a value detected by the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value and when an outdoor humidity included in the weather information acquired by the weather information acquisition unit is equal to or less than a fourth predetermined value,
the first predetermined value is lower than an upper limit value of a set temperature that can be changed by a remote controller during a cooling operation or a heating operation.
(modified) an air conditioner, comprising:
a refrigerant circuit in which a refrigerant circulates through a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator in this order;
a control unit for controlling at least the compressor and the expansion valve; and
an indoor temperature sensor that detects a temperature of the air conditioning target space,
one of the condenser and the evaporator is an outdoor heat exchanger, and the other is an indoor heat exchanger,
the control unit performs a freezing process for freezing the indoor heat exchanger by causing the indoor heat exchanger to function as the evaporator,
the control unit executes the freezing process when a reduction width or a reduction speed of the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than a fifth predetermined value in the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation performed before the freezing process when the detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value,
the first predetermined value is lower than an upper limit value of a set temperature that can be changed by a remote controller during a cooling operation or a heating operation.
An (modified) air conditioner, comprising:
a refrigerant circuit in which a refrigerant circulates through a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator in this order;
a control unit for controlling at least the compressor and the expansion valve; and
an indoor temperature sensor that detects a temperature of the air conditioning target space,
one of the condenser and the evaporator is an outdoor heat exchanger, and the other is an indoor heat exchanger,
when a user presses an execution button of a freezing process by a remote controller, the control unit causes the indoor heat exchanger to function as the evaporator to perform the freezing process for freezing the indoor heat exchanger,
the control unit performs the freezing process after performing the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation when a detection value of the indoor temperature sensor is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value,
the first predetermined value is lower than an upper limit value of a set temperature that can be changed by a remote controller during a cooling operation or a heating operation.
Statement or declaration (modification according to treaty clause 19)
(1) Claim 1 is defined as a predetermined matter, and a part of selective description relating to freezing processing is omitted, and a new claim 1 is created. The modified basis is paragraphs 0036 and 0039, and fig. 3 and 4.
(2) With the modification of claim 1, claims 2 and 3 are also modified as appropriate.
(3) Claim 4 is set as an independent claim, and a part of selective description related to freezing is omitted, and a new claim 4 is made. In addition, the same modifications are made to claims 8 and 9. Also, with the modification of claim 4, claim 5 is also modified as appropriate.
(4) Claim 10 is defined as a predetermined matter, and a part of selective description relating to freezing processing is omitted, and a new claim 10 is created. The modified basis is paragraphs 0036 and 0102, and fig. 3, 4 and 12.
(5) The inventors consider that the inventions of claims 1 to 10 after modification are respectively novel, inventive, and industrially applicable.
