JP7085405B2 - Heat source system, control device, heat source system operation method and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a heat source system, a control device, a heat source system operating method and a program.

Some have a refrigerant sensor for detecting the leakage of the refrigerant, such as an air conditioning system using a flammable refrigerant. Since the refrigerant sensor may be deteriorated by touching the refrigerant, the operation of the air conditioning system may be prohibited after the refrigerant sensor detects the refrigerant until the refrigerant sensor is replaced.
For example, in the air conditioner described in Patent Document 1, when the refrigerant gas is detected by the refrigerant gas detection sensor (refrigerant sensor), the compressor is operated after the compressor is stopped until the refrigerant gas detection sensor is replaced. Do not restart.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2016-90111

When a heat source system such as an air conditioning system is equipped with a refrigerant sensor, if the operation of the heat source system is prohibited until the refrigerant sensor is replaced after the refrigerant sensor detects a refrigerant leak, the user cannot use the heat source system during that time. Convenience is reduced. It is preferable that the convenience of the user can be achieved even after the refrigerant sensor detects the leakage of the refrigerant until the refrigerant sensor is replaced.

The present invention is a heat source system including a refrigerant sensor, and the heat source system, the control device, and the heat source system can be operated for the convenience of the user from the time when the refrigerant sensor detects the refrigerant leak to the time when the refrigerant sensor is replaced. Provide methods and programs.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the heat source system has a refrigerant sensor that detects a refrigerant leak, and when the refrigerant sensor detects a refrigerant leak, the refrigerant maintains an abnormality detection state until the refrigerant sensor is replaced. It is said that the heat source system determines that there is an operable amount of refrigerant by a predetermined refrigerant amount determination method that is performed when the state of the leak detection unit and the refrigerant sensor changes from the normal state to the abnormality detection state. An event or an operation predetermined as an emergency operation mode transition command operation in an abnormal stop mode in which the abnormality is detected and the operation mode of the heat source system is a mode in which the operation of the heat source system is prohibited is performed. When the occurrence of an emergency operation mode transition event including at least one of the events to be performed is detected, the operation control unit for shifting the operation mode of the heat source system to the emergency operation mode capable of emergency operation is provided.

When the operation control unit determines that a predetermined period has elapsed since the refrigerant sensor detected the refrigerant leak in the abnormality detection state, the operation control unit shifts the operation mode to an abnormal stop mode in which emergency operation is impossible. You may do it.

When the operation control unit determines in the abnormality detection state that a predetermined period has elapsed after the operation mode shifts to the emergency operation mode, the operation control unit shifts to the abnormal stop mode in which emergency operation is impossible. May be good.

The operation control unit may determine whether or not the emergency operation mode transition command operation accompanied by authentication of the transition authority to the emergency operation mode has been performed .

The operation control unit sets the operation mode to either the emergency operation mode or the abnormal stop mode according to the result of the determination operation for evaluating the amount of the remaining refrigerant, which is performed as the refrigerant amount determination method . You may decide.

The operation control unit determines the operation mode based on at least one of the temperature difference between the outdoor heat exchanger temperature and the outdoor temperature and the temperature difference between the indoor temperature and the indoor heat exchanger temperature. You may.

The operation control unit may operate the fan of the indoor heat exchanger in the emergency operation mode and when the operation is stopped.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, the control device is in an abnormality detection state in which the state of the refrigerant sensor is maintained from the normal state until the refrigerant sensor is replaced when the refrigerant sensor detects a refrigerant leak. The event that the heat source system determines that the amount of refrigerant that can be operated is determined by the predetermined refrigerant amount determination method that is performed when the transition to is performed, or the abnormality detection state and the operation mode of the heat source system are set. , Occurrence of an emergency operation mode transition event including at least one of the events that a predetermined operation is performed as an emergency operation mode transition command operation in the abnormal stop mode, which is a mode in which the operation of the heat source system is prohibited. When the above is detected, the operation control unit for shifting the operation mode of the heat source system to the emergency operation mode capable of emergency operation is provided.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, the heat source system operating method includes a step of detecting a refrigerant leak using a refrigerant sensor for detecting a refrigerant leak, and when the refrigerant leak is detected, the refrigerant sensor is replaced. There is an amount of refrigerant that can be operated by the heat source system by a step of maintaining the abnormality detection state and a predetermined refrigerant amount determination method performed when the state of the refrigerant sensor changes from the normal state to the abnormality detection state. The event is determined to be, or the abnormality is detected, and the operation mode of the heat source system is an abnormal stop mode in which the operation of the heat source system is prohibited. When the occurrence of an emergency operation mode transition event including at least one of the events that the operation being performed is detected is detected , the step of shifting the operation mode of the heat source system to the emergency operation mode capable of emergency operation is included. ..

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the program replaces the refrigerant sensor with a computer controlling the heat source system when the refrigerant sensor is in a normal state and the refrigerant sensor detects a refrigerant leak. The event that the heat source system determines that there is an operable refrigerant amount by the predetermined refrigerant amount determination method that is performed when the transition to the abnormality detection state that is maintained up to is performed, or the abnormality detection state and the abnormality detection state, and The operation mode of the heat source system includes at least one of the events that the operation predetermined as the emergency operation mode transition command operation is performed in the abnormal stop mode, which is the mode in which the operation of the heat source system is prohibited. This is a program for executing a step of shifting the operation mode of the heat source system to the emergency operation mode capable of emergency operation when the occurrence of the emergency operation mode transition event is detected.

According to the above-mentioned heat source system, control device, heat source system operation method and program, in a heat source system equipped with a refrigerant sensor, the convenience of the user from the time when the refrigerant sensor detects the refrigerant leak to the time when the refrigerant sensor is replaced. Can be planned.

It is a schematic block diagram which shows the structural example of the heat source system which concerns on embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the functional composition example of the control apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows the arrangement example of the refrigerant sensor which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of the operation mode of the heat source system which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of the operation procedure of the heat source system in the emergency operation mode which concerns on embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described, but the following embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims. Also, not all combinations of features described in the embodiments are essential to the means of solving the invention.
FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a configuration example of a heat source system according to an embodiment. In the following, a case where the heat source system according to the embodiment is an air conditioning system will be described as an example. However, the scope of application of the present invention is not limited to the air conditioning system, and the present invention can be applied to various systems or devices that require replacement of the refrigerant sensor when leakage of the refrigerant is detected. For example, the object of application of the present invention may be a refrigerator.

With the configuration shown in FIG. 1, the heat source system 1 includes an outdoor unit 2 and an indoor unit 3. The outdoor unit 2 includes an expansion valve 11, an outdoor heat exchanger 12, an outdoor fan 13, a four-way valve 14, a compressor 15, an outdoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 21, and an outside air temperature sensor 22. The indoor unit 3 includes an indoor heat exchanger 31, an indoor fan 32, an indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 41, an indoor temperature sensor 42, a refrigerant leak detection unit 43, and a control device 100. The refrigerant leak detection unit 43 includes a refrigerant sensor 44.
Further, in the heat source system 1, each part other than the control device 100 is collectively referred to as a heat source system main body 200. The control device 100 controls the heat source system main body 200.

The expansion valve 11 and the outdoor heat exchanger 12 are connected by a first pipe W11. The outdoor heat exchanger 12 and the four-way valve 14 are connected by a second pipe W12. The four-way valve 14 and the inlet side of the compressor 15 are connected by a third pipe W13. The outlet side of the compressor 15 and the four-way valve 14 are connected by a fourth pipe W14. Further, the four-way valve 14 and the indoor heat exchanger 31 are connected by a fifth pipe W21. The indoor heat exchanger 31 and the expansion valve 11 are connected by a sixth pipe W22.

As described above, the case where the heat source system 1 is an air conditioning system is described here as an example. The heat source system 1 as an air conditioning system adjusts the temperature of air in a room or the like. Further, in the heat source system 1 as an air conditioning system, it is possible to switch between heating operation and cooling operation.
In the heating operation, the gaseous refrigerant compressed by the compressor 15 flows into the indoor heat exchanger 31 via the fourth pipe W14, the four-way valve 14, and the fifth pipe W21 in this order. The gaseous refrigerant flowing into the indoor heat exchanger 31 dissipates heat and condenses by heat exchange with the indoor air. The refrigerant that has become liquid due to condensation is depressurized by the expansion valve 11 via the sixth pipe W22, and then flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 12 via the first pipe W11. The refrigerant flowing into the outdoor heat exchanger 12 absorbs heat by heat exchange with the outside air (outdoor air) and evaporates. The refrigerant that has become a gas due to evaporation flows into the compressor 15 via the second pipe W12, the four-way valve 14, and the third pipe W13 in this order, and is compressed.

On the other hand, in the cooling operation, the gaseous refrigerant compressed by the compressor 15 flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 12 via the fourth pipe W14, the four-way valve 14, and the second pipe W12 in this order. The gaseous refrigerant that has flowed into the outdoor heat exchanger 12 dissipates heat and condenses due to heat exchange with the outside air. The refrigerant that has become liquid due to condensation is depressurized by the expansion valve 11 via the first pipe W11, and then flows into the indoor heat exchanger 31 via the sixth pipe W22. The refrigerant flowing into the indoor heat exchanger 31 absorbs heat by heat exchange with the indoor air and evaporates. The refrigerant that has become a gas due to evaporation flows into the compressor 15 via the fifth pipe W21, the four-way valve 14, and the third pipe W13 in this order, and is compressed.

The outdoor unit 2 is installed in a place where heat can be exchanged with the outside air, such as outdoors.
The expansion valve 11 depressurizes the liquid refrigerant flowing through the expansion valve 11 itself. This decompression makes it easier for the refrigerant to evaporate.
The outdoor heat exchanger 12 causes heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outside air. In the heating operation, the low-pressure liquid refrigerant decompressed by the expansion valve 11 flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 12, absorbs heat by heat exchange with the outside air, and evaporates. Therefore, the outdoor heat exchanger 12 absorbs heat of vaporization from the outside air to vaporize the liquid refrigerant. On the other hand, in the cooling operation, the high-pressure gaseous refrigerant compressed by the compressor 15 flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 12, dissipates heat by heat exchange with the outside air, and condenses.
The outdoor fan 13 blows the outside air to the outdoor heat exchanger 12. The heat exchange in the outdoor heat exchanger 12 is promoted by the ventilation of the outdoor fan.

The four-way valve 14 switches between a heating operation and a cooling operation by switching the flow path of the refrigerant. In the heating operation, the four-way valve 14 connects the fourth pipe W14 and the fifth pipe W21 to allow the refrigerant from the compressor 15 to flow into the indoor heat exchanger 31, and the second pipe W12 and the third pipe. By connecting to W13, the refrigerant from the outdoor heat exchanger 12 flows into the compressor 15. On the other hand, in the cooling operation, the four-way valve 14 connects the fourth pipe W14 and the second pipe W12 to allow the refrigerant from the compressor 15 to flow into the outdoor heat exchanger 12, and the fifth pipe W21 and the second pipe W21. By connecting the 3 pipes W13, the refrigerant from the indoor heat exchanger 31 flows into the compressor 15.
The compressor 15 compresses the gaseous refrigerant.

The outdoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 21 measures the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 12. For example, the outdoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 21 is provided on the outer surface of the refrigerant pipe of the outdoor heat exchanger 12 and measures the temperature of the outer surface of the pipe.
The outside air temperature sensor 22 measures the outside air temperature.
One or more of the expansion valve 11, the four-way valve 14, the compressor 15, and the outside air temperature sensor 22 may be provided outside the outdoor unit 2.

The indoor unit 3 is installed in a room whose temperature is to be adjusted. Hereinafter, the room in which the indoor unit 3 is installed is simply referred to as a room.
The indoor heat exchanger 31 causes heat exchange between the refrigerant and the indoor air. In the heating operation, the high-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows into the indoor heat exchanger 31 and dissipates heat and condenses by heat exchange with the indoor air. Therefore, the indoor heat exchanger 31 liquefies the gaseous refrigerant compressed by the compressor 15 and dissipates the condensed heat to the indoor air. On the other hand, in the cooling operation, the low-pressure liquid refrigerant flows into the indoor heat exchanger 31 and absorbs heat by heat exchange with the indoor air and evaporates.
The indoor fan 32 blows the air in the room where the indoor unit 3 is installed to the indoor heat exchanger 31. The air blown by the indoor fan 32 promotes heat exchange in the indoor heat exchanger 31.

The indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 41 measures the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 31. For example, the indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 41 is provided on the outer surface of the refrigerant pipe of the indoor heat exchanger 31 and measures the temperature of the outer surface of the pipe.
The indoor temperature sensor 42 measures the indoor air temperature.

The refrigerant leak detection unit 43 detects the refrigerant leak by the refrigerant sensor 44. Specifically, the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 detects the refrigerant in the heat source system 1 (particularly, the refrigerant leak in the indoor unit 3) by detecting the refrigerant with the refrigerant sensor 44. For example, a flammable refrigerant or a slightly flammable refrigerant is used as the refrigerant of the heat source system 1, and it is necessary or preferable to monitor the leakage of the refrigerant. Therefore, the refrigerant leakage detection unit 43 is provided. There is.
The refrigerant leak detection unit 43 is configured as, for example, a substrate on which the refrigerant sensor 44 and the driver of the refrigerant sensor 44 are mounted.

The refrigerant sensor 44 may deteriorate when it comes into contact with the refrigerant. When the refrigerant sensor 44 deteriorates, it becomes impossible to accurately detect the refrigerant leak, so that the refrigerant sensor 44 needs to be replaced. Therefore, when the refrigerant sensor 44 detects the refrigerant, the refrigerant sensor 44 may have come into contact with the refrigerant and deteriorated, and the refrigerant sensor 44 needs to be replaced. Therefore, when the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 detects the refrigerant leak by the refrigerant sensor 44, the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 maintains the abnormality detection state until the refrigerant sensor 44 is replaced. The refrigerant leak detection unit 43 continuously outputs an abnormality signal during the abnormality detection state, thereby notifying the control device 100 of the abnormality detection state.

Alternatively, the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 may indicate the abnormality detection state by a method other than the output of the abnormality signal, such as indicating the abnormality detection state by using a flag. For example, when the refrigerant sensor 44 detects the refrigerant, the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 may turn on the abnormality detection flag, and when the refrigerant sensor 44 is replaced, the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 may turn off the abnormality detection flag. In this case, the function of the refrigerant leak detecting unit 43 may be configured as a part of the function of the control device 100.

When replacing the refrigerant sensor 44, the refrigerant sensor 44 may be configured to be detachable by itself, and only the refrigerant sensor 44 may be replaced. Alternatively, even if the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 is configured as a substrate and the entire substrate is replaced as described above, not only the refrigerant sensor 44 but also all or part of the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 is replaced. good.

The control device 100 controls the heat source system main body 200. The control device 100 is configured by using a computer such as a microcomputer (Microcomputer or Microcontroller).
FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the control device 100. With the configuration shown in FIG. 2, the control device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a display unit 130, an operation input unit 120, a storage unit 180, and a control unit 190. The control unit 190 includes an operation control unit 191.

The communication unit 110 functions as an interface with the heat source system main body 200. Specifically, the control device 100 receives signals from each part of the heat source system main body 200 such as sensor signals from sensors provided in the heat source system main body 200. Further, the communication unit 110 transmits a control signal to each unit of the heat source system main body 200 according to the control of the control unit 190.
The display unit 130 includes a display device such as a liquid crystal panel or an LED (light emitting diode) panel, and displays various information under the control of the control unit 190. For example, when the refrigerant leak detecting unit 43 detects a refrigerant leak, the display unit 130 displays an alarm message indicating the refrigerant leak and a message prompting the replacement of the refrigerant sensor 44.

The operation input unit 120 includes switches such as push button switches or an input device such as a touch sensor that constitutes a touch panel in combination with the display unit 130, and accepts human operations. The operation input unit 120 receives operations by the user of the heat source system 1, such as an operation command operation (ON operation), a stop command operation (OFF operation), and a temperature setting operation in a normal state. In addition, the operation input unit 120 accepts operations by maintenance and inspection workers of the heat source system 1 such as a serviceman of the manufacturer.

In particular, the operation input unit 120 receives an emergency operation mode transition command operation by a maintenance / inspection worker of the heat source system 1. In the heat source system 1, after the refrigerant sensor 44 detects the refrigerant leak, even before the replacement of the refrigerant sensor 44, the operation can be performed as an emergency operation under predetermined conditions. In the emergency operation here, the heat source system 1 should be stopped based only on the detection result of the refrigerant sensor 44, but when a predetermined condition indicating that the heat source system 1 can be operated is satisfied, an emergency measure is taken. Is to operate the heat source system 1.

One of the conditions for operating the heat source system 1 for emergency operation is that a maintenance and inspection worker having specialized knowledge about the heat source system 1 determines that the operation is possible and performs an emergency operation mode transition command operation. From the viewpoint of ensuring safety, the emergency operation mode transition command operation is performed by an operation accompanied by authentication of the transition authority to the emergency operation mode (for example, password authentication). When the operation mode of the heat source system 1 is the emergency operation mode, the heat source system 1 can be operated in an emergency. The operation mode of the heat source system 1 is managed by the operation control unit 191.
The maintenance and inspection worker of the heat source system 1 is also simply referred to as a worker. By providing a switch for operating the emergency operation mode transition command at a position operated only by the operator (usually a position that cannot be operated by the user) such as on the board inside the indoor unit 3, authentication of the authority to shift to the emergency operation mode (normally) Worker authentication) may be performed.

The storage unit 180 stores various data. The storage unit 180 is configured by using the storage device included in the control device 100.
The control unit 190 controls each unit of the control device 100 to perform various processes. The control unit 190 is configured by, for example, a CUP (Central Processing Unit) included in the control device 100 reading a program from the storage unit 180 and executing the program.

The operation control unit 191 controls the heat source system main body 200. Specifically, a control command (particularly, outdoor fan 13, four-way) to each part of the heat source system main body 200 based on the operation received by the operation input unit 120 and the signal received by the communication unit 110 from each part of the heat source system main body 200. A control command) for each of the valve 14, the compressor 15, and the indoor fan 32) is generated. Then, the operation control unit 191 transmits a control signal indicating the generated control command from the communication unit 110 to each unit of the heat source system main body 200.
In particular, when the operation control unit 191 detects the occurrence of a predetermined emergency operation mode transition event in the abnormality detection state (the state in which the refrigerant sensor 44 has not yet been replaced after the refrigerant sensor 44 detects the leakage of the refrigerant). , The operation mode of the heat source system 1 is shifted to the above-mentioned emergency operation mode.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an arrangement example of the refrigerant sensor 44. In the example shown in FIG. 3, on the front side of the indoor unit 3, a blower port, an intake port, a panel functioning as an operation input unit 120 and a display unit 130, and a refrigerant leak detection unit 43 including a refrigerant sensor 44 are arranged. Has been done.
FIG. 3 shows an arrangement example when the refrigerant is heavier than air, and the refrigerant sensor 44 is provided below the indoor unit 3. Further, in the example of FIG. 3, the refrigerant sensor 44 is provided inside the indoor unit 3. By providing the refrigerant sensor 44 inside the indoor unit 3 in this way, it is relatively easy to detect the refrigerant leakage generated inside the indoor unit 3. Further, by providing the refrigerant sensor 44 inside the indoor unit 3, there is a relatively low possibility that a gas used indoors, such as the use of a hairspray in the room, is erroneously detected as a refrigerant.
Further, in the example of FIG. 3, a panel that functions as an operation input unit 120 and a display unit 130 is arranged at a position that is relatively easy to see and operate, near the center of the front surface of the indoor unit 3.

However, the arrangement of each part in the indoor unit 3 is not limited to a specific one.
Further, all or a part of the control device 100 may be configured as a device different from the indoor unit 3. For example, the operation input unit 120 and the display unit 130 may be provided on the remote controller (Remote Controller).
The indoor temperature sensor 42 may also be configured as a device different from the indoor unit 3, such as being provided on a remote controller.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an operation mode of the heat source system 1. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the operation control unit 191 of the control device 100 controls the heat source system main body 200 in the normal operation mode in the normal state. On the other hand, in the abnormality detection state, the operation control unit 191 controls the heat source system main body 200 in the emergency operation mode or the abnormal stop mode.
As described above, the abnormality detection state is a state in which the refrigerant sensor 44 has not yet been replaced after the refrigerant sensor 44 has detected the refrigerant leak. The refrigerant leak detection unit 43 notifies the control device 100 of the abnormality detection state by continuously outputting the abnormality signal.
The normal state referred to here is a state that is not an abnormality detection state. Therefore, in the normal state, the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 does not output an abnormal signal.

In the normal operation mode and the emergency operation mode, the heat source system 1 can execute the function as the heat source system 1 such as heating and cooling. In particular, the compressor 15 can operate in the normal operation mode and the emergency operation mode.
In the abnormal stop mode, the heat source system 1 stops the function as the heat source system 1 such as heating and cooling. In particular, in the abnormal stop mode, the operation control unit 191 puts the compressor 15 in a stopped state (does not operate).

When the refrigerant sensor 44 detects the refrigerant leak and the state determined by the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 changes from the normal state to the abnormality detection state, the operation control unit 191 controls the heat source system main body 200 to perform the determination operation. Then, the heat source system main body 200 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 from the normal operation mode to either the emergency operation mode or the abnormal stop mode according to the result of the determination operation. The determination operation is an operation for evaluating the amount of refrigerant in the heat source system main body 200 (the remaining amount of the refrigerant enclosed in the heat source system main body 200).

In the determination operation, the operation control unit 191 controls the heat source system main body 200 to operate in the cooling operation or the heating operation for a certain period of time, for example, 5 minutes. In particular, the operation control unit 191 rotates the compressor 15 at a predetermined constant rotation speed for a certain period of time. Then, the operation control unit 191 evaluates the temperature difference between the outdoor heat exchanger temperature and the outside air temperature and the temperature difference between the indoor heat exchanger temperature and the indoor temperature after a certain period of time has elapsed.
In the case of cooling operation, the operation control unit 191 determines whether or not the equation (1) holds.

The outdoor heat exchanger temperature, the outside air temperature, the indoor temperature, and the indoor heat exchanger temperature are the temperatures measured by the outdoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 21, the outdoor air temperature sensor 22, the indoor temperature sensor 42, and the indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 41, respectively. Is. The first threshold value and the second threshold value are predetermined positive constants, respectively. The value of the first threshold value and the value of the second threshold value may be the same value or different values.

When the formula (1) is satisfied, it can be evaluated that a sufficient amount of the refrigerant remains in the heat source system main body 200. In this case, it is considered that the detection of the refrigerant leak by the refrigerant sensor 44 is a false detection, or even if the refrigerant leaks, the amount of leakage is very small. Therefore, when the operation control unit 191 determines that the equation (1) is satisfied, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the emergency operation mode. On the other hand, when the operation control unit 191 determines that the equation (1) does not hold, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the abnormal stop mode.
On the other hand, in the case of heating operation, the operation control unit 191 determines whether or not the equation (2) holds.

The third threshold value and the fourth threshold value are predetermined positive constants, respectively. The value of the third threshold value and the value of the fourth threshold value may be the same value or different values. Further, the value of the third threshold value may be the same as or different from the value of the first threshold value or the value of the second threshold value. The value of the fourth threshold value may be the same as or different from the value of the first threshold value or the value of the second threshold value.

When the formula (2) is satisfied, it can be evaluated that a sufficient amount of the refrigerant remains in the heat source system main body 200. In this case, it is considered that the detection of the refrigerant leak by the refrigerant sensor 44 is a false detection, or even if the refrigerant leaks, the amount of leakage is very small. Therefore, when the operation control unit 191 determines that the equation (2) is satisfied, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the emergency operation mode. On the other hand, when the operation control unit 191 determines that the equation (2) does not hold, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the abnormal stop mode.

The transition from the emergency operation mode or the abnormal stop mode to the normal operation mode is performed by replacing the refrigerant sensor 44. When the refrigerant sensor 44 is replaced to transition from the abnormality detection state to the normal state and the refrigerant leakage detection unit 43 stops outputting the abnormality signal, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the normal operation mode. ..

The transition from the abnormal stop mode to the emergency operation mode is performed in response to the above-mentioned emergency operation mode transition command operation. It is necessary for the operator to confirm the heat source system 1 and determine that the operation may be performed, and to have the heat source system 1 perform an emergency operation for the convenience of the user such that it takes time to arrange the refrigerant sensor 44. If it is determined that there is, the emergency operation mode transition command operation is performed. When the operation control unit 191 detects that the emergency operation mode transition command operation has been performed in the abnormal stop mode, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the emergency operation mode.

The transition from the emergency operation mode to the abnormal stop mode is performed according to the passage of time or the result of the determination operation.
The emergency operation mode is only an emergency measure, and it is not preferable to continue the operation of the heat source system 1 for a long period of time in a state where the refrigerant sensor 44 may be deteriorated. Therefore, when the operation control unit 191 determines that a predetermined period has elapsed since the refrigerant sensor 44 detects the refrigerant leak in the abnormality detection state, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the abnormal stop mode. Alternatively, if the operation control unit 191 determines in the abnormality detection state that a predetermined period has elapsed after shifting to the emergency operation mode, the operation mode of the heat source system 1 may be shifted to the abnormal stop mode. good.

Further, even if the operation mode of the heat source system 1 is changed to the emergency operation mode, it is conceivable that the state of the heat source system 1 changes, such as the progress of refrigerant leakage, and the state becomes unsuitable for operation. Therefore, the operation control unit 191 performs the above-mentioned determination operation at the start of the emergency operation (that is, at the time of the emergency operation mode and at the time of switching from the stop of the heat source system 1 to the operation). When the operation control unit 191 determines that the above-mentioned conditions are not satisfied in the determination operation, the operation mode of the heat source system 1 is abnormally stopped from the emergency operation mode in the same manner as the transition from the normal operation mode to the abnormal stop mode described above. Move to mode.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an operation procedure of the heat source system 1 in the emergency operation mode.
When the operation command operation is performed in the emergency operation mode, or when the normal operation mode is changed to the emergency operation mode during the operation of the heat source system 1, the heat source system 1 starts the emergency operation (step S101).
The operation control unit 191 determines whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed since the refrigerant sensor 44 detected the refrigerant leak at the start of the emergency operation of the heat source system 1. In the example of FIG. 5, the operation control unit 191 determines whether or not it is within one week after the refrigerant sensor 44 detects the refrigerant leak (step S102). However, the predetermined period here is not limited to one week. Further, instead of determining whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed since the refrigerant sensor 44 detected the refrigerant leak in step S102 by the operation control unit 191, whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed since the transition to the emergency operation mode. It may be determined whether or not.

If it is determined in step S102 that more than one week has passed (step S102: NO), the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the abnormal stop mode, and causes the heat source system 1 to stop abnormally. To stop (step S131). In this case, as described above, the heat source system 1 stops functioning as the heat source system 1 such as heating and cooling. In particular, the operation control unit 191 puts the compressor 15 in a stopped state (does not operate).

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S102 that the time is within one week (step S102: YES), the heat source system 1 performs the determination operation described above (step S111). Then, the operation control unit 191 determines whether or not the result of the determination operation is normal (step S112). The normality referred to here is to indicate that emergency operation is possible, and specifically, the conditions described with reference to the equations (1) and (2) are satisfied.

If it is determined in step S112 that it is not normal (step S112: NO), the process proceeds to step S131. Therefore, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the abnormal stop mode, and stops the heat source system 1 at the abnormal stop.
On the other hand, when the operation control unit 191 determines in step S112 that it is normal (step S112: YES), the heat source system 1 continues the emergency operation (step S121). After that, when the stop command operation is performed, the heat source system 1 is stopped (step S122). In this case, the operation control unit 191 stops the compressor 15. On the other hand, the operation control unit 191 operates (rotates) the indoor fan 32 (the fan of the indoor heat exchanger 31). The operation control unit 191 rotates the indoor fan 32 to agitate the leaked refrigerant so that the leaked refrigerant does not accumulate when the refrigerant leaks.
When the operation command operation is performed after step S122, the process proceeds to step S101.

As described above, the refrigerant sensor 44 detects the refrigerant leak. When the refrigerant sensor 44 detects a refrigerant leak, the refrigerant leak detection unit 43 maintains an abnormality detection state until the refrigerant sensor 44 is replaced. When the operation control unit 191 detects the occurrence of a predetermined emergency operation mode transition event in the abnormality detection state, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the emergency operation mode capable of emergency operation.
According to the heat source system 1, after the refrigerant sensor 44 detects a refrigerant leak, the heat source system 1 performs emergency operation under conditions such as the occurrence of an emergency operation mode transition event until the refrigerant sensor 44 is replaced. In this respect, the convenience of the user can be improved.

Further, when the operation control unit 191 determines in the abnormality detection state that a predetermined period has elapsed since the refrigerant sensor 44 detects the refrigerant leak, the operation mode of the heat source system 1 is set to an abnormal stop mode in which emergency operation is impossible. To migrate to.
The emergency operation of the heat source system 1 is merely an emergency measure, and it is not preferable that the refrigerant sensor 44 is left in a state where it may be deteriorated. When a predetermined period has elapsed since the refrigerant sensor 44 detected the refrigerant leak, the operation control unit 191 disables the operation of the heat source system 1 as an emergency operation, thereby improving the convenience of the user within the predetermined period. It is possible to urge the replacement of the refrigerant sensor 44 so that the refrigerant sensor 44 is not left unreplaced even after a predetermined period of time has elapsed.

Further, when the operation control unit 191 determines in the abnormality detection state that a predetermined period has elapsed since the operation mode of the heat source system 1 has changed to the emergency operation mode, the operation control unit 191 shifts to the abnormal stop mode in which the emergency operation is impossible. ..
The above-mentioned predetermined period is not limited to the period after the refrigerant sensor 44 detects the refrigerant leak, and may be the period after the operation mode of the heat source system 1 shifts to the emergency operation mode. In this case as well, it is possible to improve the convenience of the user within the predetermined period, and to urge the replacement of the refrigerant sensor 44 so that the refrigerant sensor 44 is not left unreplaced even after the lapse of the predetermined period.

Further, the operation control unit 191 determines whether or not an emergency operation mode transition event has occurred, which is accompanied by authentication of the transition authority to the emergency operation mode. Specifically, when the operation input unit 120 receives an operation instructing the transition to the emergency operation mode, the operation control unit 191 authenticates the operator (for example, password authentication) and the operator switches to the emergency operation mode. Determine if you have the migration authority for. Then, when the operation control unit 191 determines that the operator has the authority to shift to the emergency operation mode, the operation control unit 191 shifts the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to the emergency operation mode.
By authenticating the operator in this way, the operation control unit 191 causes the heat source system 1 to perform emergency operation when a worker having specialized knowledge about the heat source system 1 determines that emergency operation is possible. Will be possible.

Further, the operation control unit 191 sets the operation mode of the heat source system 1 to either the emergency operation mode or the abnormal stop mode according to the result of the determination operation for evaluating the amount of the remaining refrigerant at the start of the emergency operation. decide.
Even if the operation mode of the heat source system 1 shifts to the emergency operation mode, there is a possibility that the state of the heat source system 1 may change and the emergency operation may not be appropriate after that, such as the progress of refrigerant leakage. By performing the determination operation by the operation control unit 191, the emergency operation can be canceled when the emergency operation of the heat source system 1 becomes inappropriate.

Further, the operation control unit 191 is the operation mode of the heat source system 1 based on at least one of the temperature difference between the outdoor heat exchanger temperature and the outdoor temperature and the temperature difference between the indoor temperature and the indoor heat exchanger temperature. To determine.
As a result, the operation control unit 191 can determine the operation mode of the heat source system 1 by a relatively simple calculation such as calculation of the temperature difference.
Further, when the outdoor heat exchanger temperature and the outdoor temperature, or the indoor temperature and the indoor heat exchanger temperature are measured for the purpose of detecting an abnormality of the heat source system 1, a temperature sensor is separately used to determine the operation mode of the heat source system 1. There is no need to provide it.

Further, the operation control unit 191 operates the indoor fan 32 (fan of the indoor heat exchanger 31) in the emergency operation mode and when the operation is stopped.
In the heat source system 1, by rotating the indoor fan 32 in this way, when the refrigerant leaks, it is possible to stir so that the leaked refrigerant does not accumulate.

A program for realizing all or a part of the functions of the control device 100 is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on the recording medium is read into a computer system and executed. May be processed. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices.
Further, the "computer system" includes the homepage providing environment (or display environment) if the WWW system is used.
Further, the "computer-readable recording medium" refers to a portable medium such as a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, a ROM, or a CD-ROM, and a storage device such as a hard disk built in a computer system. Further, the above-mentioned program may be for realizing a part of the above-mentioned functions, and may be further realized for realizing the above-mentioned functions in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment and includes design changes and the like within a range not deviating from the gist of the present invention.

1 Heat source system 21 Outdoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 22 Outdoor air temperature sensor 41 Indoor heat exchanger temperature sensor 42 Indoor temperature sensor 43 Refrigerator leak detection unit 44 Refrigerator sensor 100 Control device 110 Communication unit 120 Operation input unit 130 Display unit 180 Storage unit 190 Control unit 191 Operation control unit 200 Heat source system main unit

Claims (10)

A refrigerant sensor that detects refrigerant leakage and
When the refrigerant sensor detects a refrigerant leak, a refrigerant leak detection unit that maintains an abnormality detection state until the refrigerant sensor is replaced,
The event that the heat source system determines that there is an operable amount of refrigerant by a predetermined refrigerant amount determination method that is performed when the state of the refrigerant sensor changes from the normal state to the abnormality detection state, or the above-mentioned An abnormality detection state and an abnormal stop mode in which the operation mode of the heat source system is a mode in which the operation of the heat source system is prohibited, and an operation predetermined as an emergency operation mode transition command operation is performed. When the occurrence of an emergency operation mode transition event including at least one of them is detected, an operation control unit that shifts the operation mode of the heat source system to an emergency operation mode capable of emergency operation, and
A heat source system equipped with. When the operation control unit determines in the abnormality detection state that a predetermined period has elapsed since the refrigerant sensor detected the refrigerant leak, the operation control unit shifts the operation mode to an abnormal stop mode in which emergency operation is impossible.
The heat source system according to claim 1. When the operation control unit determines in the abnormality detection state that a predetermined period has elapsed after the operation mode shifts to the emergency operation mode, the operation control unit shifts to the abnormal stop mode in which emergency operation is impossible.
The heat source system according to claim 1. The operation control unit determines whether or not the emergency operation mode transition command operation accompanied by authentication of the transition authority to the emergency operation mode has been performed .
The heat source system according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The operation control unit sets the operation mode to either the emergency operation mode or the abnormal stop mode according to the result of the determination operation for evaluating the amount of the remaining refrigerant, which is performed as the refrigerant amount determination method . Decide whether
The heat source system according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The operation control unit determines the operation mode based on at least one of the temperature difference between the outdoor heat exchanger temperature and the outdoor temperature and the temperature difference between the indoor temperature and the indoor heat exchanger temperature.
The heat source system according to claim 5. The operation control unit operates the fan of the indoor heat exchanger in the emergency operation mode and when the operation is stopped.
The heat source system according to any one of claims 1 to 6. A predetermined refrigerant amount determination method that is performed when the state of the refrigerant sensor changes from a normal state to an abnormality detection state that is maintained until the refrigerant sensor is replaced when the refrigerant sensor detects a refrigerant leak. The event that the heat source system is determined to have an operable amount of refrigerant, or the abnormality detection state and the operation mode of the heat source system is a mode in which the operation of the heat source system is prohibited. When the occurrence of an emergency operation mode transition event including at least one of the events that a predetermined operation is performed as an emergency operation mode transition command operation is detected in the mode, the operation mode of the heat source system can be operated as an emergency operation. A control device equipped with an operation control unit that shifts to the emergency operation mode. The process of detecting refrigerant leakage using a refrigerant sensor that detects refrigerant leakage,
When the refrigerant leak is detected, the step of maintaining the abnormality detection state until the refrigerant sensor is replaced, and
The event that the heat source system determines that there is an operable amount of refrigerant by a predetermined refrigerant amount determination method that is performed when the state of the refrigerant sensor changes from the normal state to the abnormality detection state, or the above-mentioned An abnormality detection state and an abnormal stop mode in which the operation mode of the heat source system is a mode in which the operation of the heat source system is prohibited, and an operation predetermined as an emergency operation mode transition command operation is performed. When the occurrence of an emergency operation mode transition event including at least one of them is detected , the step of shifting the operation mode of the heat source system to the emergency operation mode capable of emergency operation, and
How to operate the heat source system including. To the computer that controls the heat source system
A predetermined refrigerant amount determination method that is performed when the state of the refrigerant sensor changes from a normal state to an abnormality detection state that is maintained until the refrigerant sensor is replaced when the refrigerant sensor detects a refrigerant leak. The event that the heat source system is determined to have an operable amount of refrigerant, or the abnormality detection state and the operation mode of the heat source system is a mode in which the operation of the heat source system is prohibited. When the occurrence of an emergency operation mode transition event including at least one of the events that a predetermined operation is performed as an emergency operation mode transition command operation is detected in the mode, the operation mode of the heat source system can be set to emergency operation. A program to execute the process of shifting to the emergency operation mode.

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