US20120040601A1

US20120040601A1 - Air conditioning controlling device and method

Info

Publication number: US20120040601A1
Application number: US13/205,854
Authority: US
Inventors: Kazuya Harayama
Original assignee: Azbil Corp
Current assignee: Azbil Corp
Priority date: 2010-08-10
Filing date: 2011-08-09
Publication date: 2012-02-16
Also published as: JP5525960B2; KR101231311B1; CN102374618B; KR20120025386A; CN102374618A; JP2012037177A

Abstract

After the commencement of air conditioning estimated control, a temperature error between a measured temperature, measured at a subject location within an air-conditioned space, and an estimated temperature at the subject location, obtained from a heat flow analysis processing portion, is compared to a tolerance range that is set in advance for the temperature error, to evaluate a switch to air conditioning feedback control for the subject location to correct the temperature error, and if air conditioning feedback control is necessary, and instruction is given by an air conditioning instructing portion to an air conditioning system 20 to start the execution of air conditioning feedback control operations with the estimated temperature at the subject location as the setting temperature.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 to Japanese Patent Application No. 2010-179362, filed Aug. 10, 2010, which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

The present invention relates to an air conditioning controlling technology, and, in particular, relates to an air conditioning controlling, technology for controlling an conditioning environment in a target location within a space, using a distributed system heat flow analysis method.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

When maintaining a space in a desired existing environment, not only is air conditioning equipment installed in the air-conditioned space for which air conditioning is to be performed, but also temperature sensors are disposed at locations that are representative of each area of the air-conditioned space, and operating quantities for the airflow speed, the airflow direction, the temperature, and the like, of the conditioned air that is provided from the air conditioning equipment are determined in accordance with the outputs of the temperature sensors.
On the other hand, in a large space, such as an office, when it comes to the placement of people, lighting, electronic equipment, and the like that act as heat sources, and the placement of desks, chairs, partitions, and the like that become obstructions to the airflow, typically the priority is on efficiency in the work operations, and thus this type of office layout is not designed with a priority on air conditioning control. Because of this, inevitably there wilt be strong “thermal interferences” when it comes to the positional relationships between the vents of the air conditioning facilities and the temperature sensors (See, for example, HIROI, Kazuo: “Fundamentals and Applications of Digital Metering Equipment Control Systems,” Industrial Engineering Company, pp. 152-156, October 1987).
Consequently, in an implementation that is structured from a plurality of typical single-loop feedback control systems, it is difficult to stabilize the operating quantities due to this type of thermal interference, making optimal control difficult. For example, when the magnitude of the change in temperature when moving to the desired air conditioning environment is large, there will be fluctuations in the state of control, and the operating quantities will be unstable because of mismatched operations wherein each of the feedback systems is individually searching for a stabilize state within the system as a whole.
A method that uses the distributed system heat flow analysis technique has been considered as a method for obtaining stabilized operating quantities for such air-conditioned spaces wherein complex thermal interferences occur. The use of this distributed system heat flow analysis technique enables the establishment of a desired thermal convection field or mass diffusion field through analyzing the sensitivity, defined as the proportion of change of the design target relative to a change in a design parameter, through solving perturbation adjoint equation for a non-linear problem regarding the design target, based on the design target that has been set (See, for example, Japanese Patent 4016066 (“JP '066”)).
Consequently, it is possible to use the distributed system heat flow analysis techniques to not only estimate the distributions of temperatures and airflows within the air-conditioned space from the state of air conditioning that has been inputted for the air-conditioned space, but also possible to calculate the sensitivity, which indicates the amount of change of the flow speed, flow direction, and temperature within each element space that is established within the air-conditioned space, necessary in order to satisfy the target temperature, based on this distribution and the target temperatures at target locations of the air-conditioned space, to enable the blowing speed and the blowing temperature of the new conditioned air at each vent, and the operating quantity, including the intake flow speed with which air within the room is drawn into each individual intake vent, based on the sensitivity data.
Because the desired environmental state is analyzed as a system-wide stabilize state, it becomes possible to obtain stabilized operating quantities, making it possible to approach the desired state of the temperature environment with excellent efficiency. In particular, even in cases wherein it is difficult to determine the setting values, such as when starting up the air conditioning, the operating quantities can be set through the distributed system heat flow analysis technique, making it possible to achieve the targeted thermal environment state rapidly.
However, in the end, this type of distributed system heat flow analysis technique is no more than a simulation, and it is necessary to model the air conditioning space that is subject to control, the external noises, and the like. Consequently, even if the air conditioning equipment is controlled through the operating quantities that are obtained, there has been a problem in that, for example, there will be a temperature error between the temperature distribution estimated by the simulation and the actual temperature distribution within the air-conditioned space.
The present invention is to solve this type of problem, and the object thereof is to provide an air conditioner controlling technology able to correct the error that occurs when the air conditioning is controlled based on the operating quantities obtained through the distributed system heat flow analysis technique.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In order to achieve such an object, the air conditioning device according to the present invention is an air conditioning controlling device, equipped with a heat flow analysis processing portion for using a distributed system heat flow analysis technique to estimate distributions of temperatures and airflows in an air-conditioned space from an inputted state of air conditioning of the air-conditioned space. It is also for estimating an operating quantity pertaining to air conditioning control based on these distributions and on a target temperature in a target location within the air-conditioned space. Additionally the device performs air conditioning estimated control, based on the operating quantity obtained from the heat flow analysis processing portion, and controls the air conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space in its entirety through regulating, through an air conditioning system, a conditioned air blowing speed and blowing temperature at individual blowing vents provided within the air-conditioned space. It includes an air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion for performing an evaluation for switching to an air conditioning feedback control based on an end condition of the effect of the air conditioning estimated control, set in advance, after the air conditioning estimated control has started. It also includes an air conditioning instructing portion for instructing the air conditioning system to start executing the air conditioning feedback control operations with the estimated temperature as the setting temperature when it has been decided by the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion to switch to the air conditioning feedback control.
At this time the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion may check whether or not a temperature field has stabilized at a subject location through comparing the measured temperature change at the specific subject location during a specific evaluation time interval to a normal evaluation temperature range, and if the stability of the temperature field at the subject location is confirmed, may decide to switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location.
Moreover, the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion may decide to switch to air conditioning feedback control for a subject location, in order to correct a temperature error, through comparing, to a tolerance range that is set in advance for the temperature error, a temperature error between the measured temperature and a reference temperature that is an estimated temperature at the specific subject location, obtained through the heat flow analysis processing portion, after the air conditioning estimated control has been started.
Further, the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion may compare the measured temperature to a reference temperature, which is the measured temperature measured at the specific subject location at a time that is a specific evaluation time interval prior to the measured temperature, and may calculate a measured temperature slope for the subject location from the measured temperature change obtained for the subject location, and may decide to switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location when the measured temperature at the target location is equal to or greater than the estimated temperature at the subject location and the measured temperature slope is equal to or greater than a reference slope for the measured temperature corresponding to the temperature error, set in advance, and when the measured temperature for the target location is less than the estimated temperature and the measured temperature slope is less than a reference slope for the measured temperature, corresponding to the temperature error, set in advance.
Furthermore, the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion may decide to switch to the air conditioning feedback control at the point in time that a specific wait time has elapsed after the start of the air conditioning estimated control.
Additionally, an air conditioning method according to the present invention is used in air conditioning controlling device, equipped with a heat flow analysis processing portion for using a distributed system heat flow analysis technique to estimate distributions of temperatures and airflows in an air-conditioned space from an inputted state of air conditioning of the air-conditioned space, and for estimating an operating quantity pertaining to air conditioning control based on these distributions and on a target temperature in a target location within the air-conditioned space. The method performs air conditioning estimated control, based on the operating quantity obtained from the heat flow analysis processing portion, for controlling the air conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space in its entirety through regulating, through an air conditioning system, a conditioned air blowing speed and blowing temperature at individual blowing vents provided within the air-conditioned space. The method includes an air conditioning feedback control evaluating step wherein an air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion performs an evaluation for switching to an air conditioning feedback control based on an end condition of the effect of the air conditioning estimated control, set in advance, after the air conditioning estimated control has started; and an air conditioning instructing step for instructing the air conditioning system to start executing the air conditioning feedback control operations with the estimated temperature as the setting temperature when it has been decided by the air conditioning feedback control evaluating step to switch to the air conditioning feedback control.
At this time, the air conditioning feedback control evaluating step may check whether or not a temperature field has stabilized at a subject location through comparing the measured temperature change at the specific subject location during a specific evaluation time interval to a normal evaluation temperature range, and if the stability of the temperature field at the subject location is confirmed, may decide to switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location.
Moreover, the air conditioning feedback control evaluating step may decide to switch to air conditioning feedback control for a subject location, in order to correct a temperature error, through comparing, to a tolerance range that is set in advance for the temperature error, a temperature error between the measured temperature and a reference temperature that is an estimated temperature at the specific subject location, obtained through the heat flow analysis processing portion, after the air conditioning estimated control has been started.
Further, the air conditioning feedback control evaluating step may compare the measured temperature to a reference temperature, which is the measured temperature measured at the specific subject location at a time that is a specific evaluation time interval prior to the measured temperature, and may calculate a measured temperature slope for the subject location from the measured temperature change obtained for the subject location, and may decide to switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location when the measured temperature at the target location is equal to or greater than the estimated temperature at the subject location and the measured temperature slope is equal to or greater than a reference slope for the measured temperature corresponding to the temperature error, set in advance, and when the measured temperature for the target location is less than the estimated temperature and the measured temperature slope is less than a reference slope for the measured temperature, corresponding to the temperature error, set in advance.
Furthermore, the air conditioning feedback control evaluating step may decide to switch to the air conditioning feedback control at the point in time that a specific wait time has elapsed after the start of the air conditioning estimated control.
The present invention enables the adjustment of the error that occurs when performing air conditioning control using the operating quantities obtained from the distributed system heat flow analysis technique through a separate air conditioning feedback control operation for a target location through the air conditioning system. Consequently, this enables the provision, to the occupants within the air-conditioned space, of a comfortable air conditioning environment, set by the occupants.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a structure of an air conditioning controlling device according to an example.

FIG. 2 is a flow chart illustrating the air conditioning, controlling operation in the air conditioning controlling device.

FIG. 3 is a structural example of boundary condition data.

FIG. 4 is a structural example of measured temperature data.

FIG. 5 is a structural example of distribution data.

FIG. 6 is a structural example of target data.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the air conditioning estimated control procedure according to an example.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating the air conditioning feedback control procedure according to the example.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the air conditioning feedback control operation according to the example.

FIG. 10 is a structural example of an air-conditioned space that is subject to air-conditioning.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the results of a simulation.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the air conditioning feedback control procedure according to another example.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the relationship between the temperature error and the reference slope.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the air conditioning feedback control operation according to the other example.

FIG. 15 is another explanatory diagram illustrating the air conditioning feedback control operation according to the other example.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating the air conditioning feedback control procedure according to a further example.

FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the air conditioning feedback control operation according to the further example.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Examples for carrying out the present invention are explained next in reference to the figures.
First of all, an air conditioning, controlling device according to the present invention is explained in reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a structure of an air conditioning controlling device according to an example.
The air conditioning controlling device 10 includes, overall, an information processing device such as a personal computer or a server, and has a function for controlling the air conditioning environment at a target location of the air-conditioned space 30 through controlling an air conditioning system 20 that performs the air conditioning of the air-conditioned space 30.
In particular, the distributed system heat flow analysis technique is used in the air conditioning controlling device 10 is provided with a heat flow analysis processing portion that not only estimates the distributions of the temperatures and airflows within the air-conditioned space 30 from the inputted state of air conditioning in the air-conditioned space 30, but also estimates the operating, quantities pertaining to the air conditioning control based on the distribution and on target temperatures of target locations within the air-conditioned space 30, and performs the air conditioning estimated control, for controlling the air conditioning environment of the entirety of the air-conditioned space 30, through adjusting, by the air conditioning system 20, the blowing speed and blowing temperature of the conditioned air at each blowing vent that is provided in the air-conditioned space 30, based on the operating quantities obtained from the heat flow analysis processing portion.
In the present form of embodiment, the temperature error between the measured temperatures, measured at subject locations within the air-conditioned space 30, and the estimated temperatures at the subject locations, obtained from the heat flow analysis processing portion, after the beginning of air conditioning estimated control, are compared, within the air conditioning controlling device 10, to a tolerance range that is set in advance for the temperature error, to evaluate switching to air conditioning feedback control for the target location in order to correct the temperature error, and if the decision is to switch to air conditioning feedback control, an instruction is issued to the air conditioning system to commence execution of air conditioning feedback control operations with the estimated temperature as the setting temperature.

Air Conditioning Controlling Device

FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 will be referenced next to explain in detail the air conditioning controlling device 10 according to the present example. FIG. 2 is a flow chart illustrating the air conditioning controlling operation in the air conditioning controlling device.
This air conditioning controlling device 10 is provided with a communication interface portion (hereinafter termed the communication I/F portion) 11, an operation inputting portion 12, a screen displaying portion 13, a storing portion 14, and a calculation processing portion 15, as the primary functional components thereof.
The communication I/F portion 11 is made from a dedicated data communication circuit, and has the function of performing data communication with external devices, such as the air conditioning system, connected through a communication line L.
The operation inputting portion 12 is made from an operation inputting device, such as a keyboard or a mouse, and has a function for detecting operations by an operator and outputting them to the calculation processing portion 15.
The screen displaying portion 13 is made from a screen displaying device such as an LCD or a PDP, and has a function for displaying, on a screen, various types of information, such as an operating menu and input/output data, in accordance with instructions from the calculation processing portion 15.
The storing portion 14 is made from a storage device, such as a hard disk or a semiconductor memory, and has a function for storing various types of processing data and a program 14P used by the calculation processing portion 15.
A program 14P is a program that is read out and executed by the calculation processing portion 15, and is stored in advance into the storing portion 14 through the communication I/F portion 11 from an external device or recording medium.
As the primary processing data that is stored in the storing portion 14 there is the setting condition data 14A. The setting condition data 14A is various types of data that form the setting conditions when performing the heat flow analysis processes, such as spatial condition data that represent locations and shapes pertaining to the structural elements that have an impact on the air conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space 30, such as locations and shapes pertaining to the air-conditioned space 30, conditioned air blowing vents formed in the air conditioning system 20, and the like, along with, for example, heat-producing object data that indicate the layout position, amount of heat produced, and shape of each heat-producing Object that is disposed in the air-conditioned space 30, where this setting condition data 14A is inputted in advance through the communication I/F portion 11 from an external device, such as the air conditioning system 20, or from a recording medium, or the like, and stored in the storing portion 14.
The calculation processing portion 15 has a microprocessor, such as a CPU and the peripheral circuitry thereof, and has the function of embodying a variety of processing portions through reading in and executed the program 14P from the storing portion 14.
The primary processing portions embodied by the calculation processing portion 15 include a data inputting portion 15A, a heat flow analysis processing portion 1513, an air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C, and an air conditioning instructing portion 15D.
The data inputting portion 15A has a function for storing in advance, into the storing portion 14, the setting condition data 14A pertaining to the air-conditioned space 30, inputted through the communication VP portion 11 from the external device, such as the air conditioning system 20, or from a recording medium, and a function for obtaining, from the air conditioning system 20 through the communication I/F portion 11, boundary condition data 14B that express the degree of impact on the air conditioning environment of the structural elements that impact the air conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space 30, such as the blowing speeds and blowing temperatures of the conditioned air that is blown from the vents that are provided in the air-conditioned space 30, and measured temperature data 14C that includes the measured temperatures that are measured by the temperature sensors 22 that are provided in the air-conditioned space 30.
Additionally, the data inputting portion 15A has a function that, at regular intervals or in response to a change in setting condition data 14A, boundary condition data 14B, or measured temperature data 14C, evaluates whether or not an air conditioning control timing has arrived, and in response to the arrival of the air conditioning controlling timing, generates again the setting condition data 14A, the boundary condition data 14B, and the measured temperature data 14C for performing the air conditioning control again.
The setting condition data 14A may be inputted through an operator operation using the operation inputting portion 12, or setting condition data 14A regarding the air-conditioned space 30 may be generated based on data obtained from various systems through the communication I/F portion 11.
FIG. 3 is a structural example of boundary condition data. Here the degrees of impact exhibited by the airflow speed and airflow direction and temperature are stored as boundary conditions at that point in time for each structural element wherein there has been a change in the impact on the air conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space 30, of those structural elements included in the boundary condition data. For example, for a “blowing vent,” the blowing speed u, v, and w (components in three dimensions) of the conditioned air that blows from the vent, and the air temperature T of the conditioned air that blows from the blowing vent, are recorded, and for an “intake vent,” the intake flow speed u, v, and w (components in three dimensions) of the room air that is drawn through the intake flow vent is recorded.
FIG. 4 is a structural example of measured temperature data. Here the location x, y, and z (components in three dimensions) of the subject location, for a subject location j within the air-conditioned space 30, and the temperature T of the air that is measured by a temperature sensor 22 that is provided at the subject location are recorded. Note that the subject location j is not limited to a single location, but rather a plurality may be established within a scope that can be controlled (a scope wherein a solution can be found).
The heat flow analysis processing portion 1513 has a function that uses the distributed system heat flow analysis technique to estimate distribution data 14D that represent the distribution of temperatures and airflows in the air-conditioned space 30 from the inputted boundary condition data 14B, which express the state of air conditioning within the air-conditioned space 30, and from the setting condition data 14A, a function for obtaining target data 14E that express target temperatures at target locations within the air-conditioned space 30, from data inputting operations by an operator using the operation inputting portion 12, and a function for estimating the operating quantity data 14F that express the operating quantities pertaining to the air conditioning system, based on the distribution data 14D and the target data 14E.
The distributed system heat flow analysis technique is a technique for evaluating heat flows between contiguous element spaces by dividing the applicable space into a mesh of element spaces, based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD). In the function for estimating the distribution data 14D, in the heat flow analysis processing portion 15B, a known technique, such as that of KATO, Shinsuke; KOBAYASHI, Hikaru; and, MURAKAMI, Shuzo: “Scales for Assessing Contribution of Heat Sources and Sinks to Temperature Distributions in Room by Means of Numerical Simulation,” Institute of Industrial Science, University of Tokyo, Air Conditioning and Sanitation Engineering Reports No. 69, pp. 36 to 47, April 1998, that uses forward analyses of the distributed system heat flow analysis technique, for example, may be used. Additionally, for the function that estimates the operating quantity data 14F, a well known technique, such as that in JP '066, which uses reverse analysis of the distributed system heat flow analysis technique, for example, may be used.
FIG. 5 is a structural example of distribution data. Here not only is the airflow velocity u_CFD, v_CFD, and w_CFD(components in three dimensions) of the air within the room in each element space stored as airflow velocity distribution data for each location x, y, and z (components in three dimensions) of the element spaces that are set by dividing the air-conditioned space 30 into the form of a mesh, but also the air temperatures T_CFDof the room air at each of the element spaces are stored as the temperature distribution data.
FIG. 6 is a structural example of target data. Here the locations x, y, and z (components in three dimensions) and shapes (sizes) dx, dy, and dz (components in three dimensions) of the spatial conditions of the target locations i are recorded, and the target temperatures T of the target locations i are also recorded, as boundary conditions. Note that the target location i is not limited to a single location, but rather may be a plurality in a scope that can be controlled (a scope wherein a solution can be found).
The air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C has a function for evaluating whether or not to switch to air conditioning feedback control for a subject location j, through comparing a measured temperature T_Mat a subject location j within the air-conditioned space 30, which is included in the measured temperature data 14C, to a reference temperature pertaining to the subject location j, after the commencement of the air conditioning estimated control for controlling the air conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space 30 in its entirety, based on the operating quantity data 14F obtained from the heat flow analysis processing portion 15B.
The air conditioning instructing portion 15D has a function for instructing the air conditioning system 20, through the communication I/F portion 11, to perform air conditioning estimated control for controlling the air conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space 30 in its entirety based on the operating quantity data 14F obtained from the heat flow analysis processing portion 15B, and a function for instructing the air conditioning system 20, through the communication FT portion 11, to begin to perform air conditioning feedback control operations, with the estimated temperatures T_Sas the setting temperatures T_SP, when the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C decides to switch to air conditioning feedback control, in order to bring the target location i within the air-conditioned space 30 to the target temperature.

Air Conditioning System

The structure of the air conditioning system 20 according to the present example is explained next in reference to FIG. 1.
The air conditioning system 20 can be provided with an air conditioning processing portion 21, temperature sensors 22, and a supply air regulating portion 23, as the primary functional portions thereof. The air conditioning system 20 has, in addition to these functional portions, a structure that is identical to the typical air conditioning equipment that is provided at structures such as buildings and shops.
The air conditioning processing portion 20 is made from a calculation processing portion having a microprocessor such as a CPU, and the peripheral circuitry thereof, and has a function for performing the conditioning of the air of the air-conditioned space 30 in its entirety through regulating the air that is supplied to the air conditioning equipment that is provided in the air-conditioned space 30, through controlling the supply air regulating portion 23 based on operating quantities that are provided in the instructions, in response to air conditioning estimated control instructions from the air conditioning controlling device 10 through a communication line L, and a function for performing air conditioning feedback control, through regulating the air that is supplied to the air conditioning equipment pertaining to a subject location j, by controlling the supply air regulating portion 23 so that the measured temperature T_Mthat is measured by the temperature sensor 22 at the subject location j will go to the setting temperature T_SPpertaining to the subject location j, receive in the instruction, in response to an air conditioning feedback control instruction from the air conditioning controlling device 10. The air conditioning feedback control may use VAV local-loop control if central air conditioning equipment is provided in the air-conditioned space 30, or, if discrete air conditioning equipment is provided in the air-conditioned space 30, may use local-loop control of the discrete air conditioning equipment.
The temperature sensor 22 is made from an ordinary temperature sensor, and has a function for measuring the temperature of the subject location j that is established in the air-conditioned space 30, to output it to the air conditioning processing portion 21.
The supply air regulating portion 23 is made from an airflow rate regulating device, such as a valve, and has a function for regulating the air that is supplied to the air conditioning equipment that is provided in the air-conditioned space 30 in response to control from the air conditioning processing portion 21.
The operation of the air conditioning controlling device according to the present example is explained next in reference to FIG. 2, FIG. 7, and FIG. 8. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the air conditioning estimated control procedure according to this example. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating the air conditioning feedback control procedure according to the example.

Air Conditioning Estimated Control Operations

The air conditioning estimated control operations of the air conditioning controlling device according to the present example is explained first, in reference to FIG. 2 and FIG. 7.
The calculation processing portion 15 of the air conditioning controlling device 10 begins the air conditioning controlling process of FIG. 7 at the time of startup or in response to an operator operation. Note that the setting condition data 14A is stored in the storing portion 14 in advance, (prior to starting the execution of the air conditioning controlling process.
First, the data inputting portion 15A performs data communication with the air conditioning system 20, through the communication I/F portion 11, to obtain boundary condition data 14B such as the blowing velocity u, v, and w (components in three dimensions) and the air temperature T at each blowing vent of the air-conditioned space 30, and the intake velocity u, v, and w (components in three dimensions) at each intake vent, and obtains the measured temperature data 14C that expresses the measured temperatures T_Mat the subject locations j within the air-conditioned space 30 (Step 100).
Next the heat flow analysis processing portion 15B obtains the setting condition data 14A from the storing portion 14 (Step 101), to calculate (Step 102) the distribution data 14D that expresses the distributions of the temperatures and airflows within the air-conditioned space 30 through forward analysis through the distributed system heat flow analysis technique for the state of the air-conditioned space 30, based on these setting condition data 14A and the boundary condition data 14B produced by the data inputting portion 15A.
Thereafter, the heat flow analysis processing portion 15B obtains target data 14E that expresses the target temperatures at the target locations within the air-conditioned space 30, through a data inputting operation of an operator using the operation inputting portion 12, and compares the target data 14E to the distribution data 14D to discern whether or not there is divergence regarding the target locations in the air-conditioned space 30 (Step 104).
If at this point the difference between the air temperature at a target location, obtained from the distribution data 14D, and the target temperature specified in the target data 14E is a temperature difference that is no more than a threshold value temperature difference that has been set in advance, then the evaluation is that there is no divergence in the air conditioning environment (Step 105: N)), and processing advances to Step 108, described below.
On the other hand, if the difference between the air temperature at the target location, obtained from the distribution data 14D, and the target temperature that is specified in the target data 14E is a temperature difference exceeding the threshold value temperature difference that has been set in advance, then the heat flow analysis processing portion 15B determines that there is a divergence in the air conditioning environment (Step 105: YES), and performs a reverse analysis of the distribution of temperatures and airflows within the air-conditioned space 30 using the distributed system heat flow analysis technique, to calculate sensitivity data that expresses the degree of change in the airflow velocities and airflow directions and temperatures, in each of the element spaces, required in order to satisfy the target data, and then back-calculates, based on this sensitivity data, the operating quantity data 14F, which includes new blowing velocities and blowing temperatures for the conditioned air at each of the blowing vents, and intake air velocities for the room air that is drawn in through each of the intake vents (Step 106).
In response, the air conditioning instructing portion 15D specifies, to the air conditioning system 20 through the communication I/F portion 11, air conditioning estimated control for controlling the air conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space 30 in its entirety based on the operating quantity data 14F that has been calculated by the heat flow analysis processing portion 15B (Step 107).
Thereafter, at regular time intervals, or in response to a change in newly-acquired boundary condition data or heat generating object data, the data inputting portion 15A evaluates the arrival of an air conditioning estimated control timing (Step 108), and, in response to the arrival of the air conditioning estimated control timing (Step 108: YES), returns to Step 100, and starts the air conditioning estimated control again.

Air Conditioning Feedback Control Operations

The air conditioning feedback control operations for the air conditioning controlling device according to the present example is explained next in reference to FIG. 2 and FIG. 8.
The calculation processing portion 15 of the air conditioning controlling device 10, after executing the air conditioning estimated control procedures of FIG. 7, described above, starts the air conditioning feedback control procedures of FIG. 8.
The air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C first extracts the measured temperatures T_Mfor the subject locations j from the measured temperature data 14C from the data inputting portion 15A (Step 110), and calculates a measured temperature change ΔT_MM(absolute value) that expresses the change in the measured temperature T_Mover an evaluation time interval Δt extending back in the past from the present time t (Step 111).
Here the measured temperature change ΔT_MMis compared to a normal evaluation temperature range T_Dthat is set in advance in the storing portion 14 (Step 112), and if the measured temperature change ΔT_MMis larger than the normal evaluation temperature range T_D(Step 112: NO), then the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C returns to Step 110, and performs repetitive checks until the temperature field in the subject location j stabilizes.
On the other hand, if the measured temperature change ΔT_MMis within the normal evaluation temperature range T_D(Step 112: YES), then it has been confirmed that the temperature field at the subject location j has stabilized, and thus the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C extracts the estimated temperature T_S, as the reference temperature for the subject location j, from the distribution data 14D produced by the heat flow analysis processing portion 15B (Step 113), and, at the present time t, calculates a temperature error ΔT_SM(absolute value) between the estimated temperature T_Sand the actual measured temperature T_SMfor the subject location j (Step 114).
At this point, the temperature error ΔT_SMand the tolerance range T_L, set in advance in the storing portion 14, are compared (Step 115), and if the temperature error ΔT_SMis greater than the tolerance range (Step 115: YES), then the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C decides to switch to air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j in order to correct the temperature error ΔT_SM, and provides notification to the air conditioning instructing portion 15D of the setting temperature data 14G wherein the estimated temperature T_Sof the subject location j has been set as a new setting temperature T_SPfor the subject location j (Step 116).
The air conditioning instructing portion 15D instructs the air conditioning system, through the communication I/F portion 11, to begin execution of the air conditioning feedback control operation with the estimated temperature TS at the subject location j as the setting temperature TSP, based on the setting temperature data 14G (Step 117), to conclude the series of air conditioning feedback control processes.
On the other hand, if the temperature error ΔT_SMis within the tolerance range T_L, (Step 115: NO), then the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C concludes the series of air conditioning feedback control processes.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the air conditioning feedback control operation according to an example. Here air conditioning estimated control starts at time t₀, and the measured temperature T_Mat a subject location j falls gradually from the temperature T^t _Mto reach the temperature T^t1 _Mat time t₁, and, thereafter, falls monotonically to temperature T^t _Mat the present time t.
Here, at time t₁, the measured temperature change ΔT_MM, corresponding to a time going back from the present time t by the evaluation time interval ΔT, is calculated as ΔT_MM=ABS (T^t1 _M−T^t _M). The function ABS ( ) is the function for calculating the absolute value.
If this measured temperature change ΔT_MMis within the normal evaluation temperature range T_D, then the evaluation is that the temperature field within the subject location j is stable, that the measured temperature change ΔT_MMis not transient, and that a correction should be made through air conditioning feedback control to the subject location j.
Additionally, a temperature error ΔT_SMis calculated as ΔT_SM=ABS (T_S−T^t _M). At this point, if the temperature error T_SMis greater than the tolerance range T_L, then the divergence between the estimated temperature T_Sand the actual measured temperature T_Mat the subject location j is large, and so the decision is made to switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j in order to correct the temperature error T_SM. Given this, the air conditioning feedback control operations are started by the air conditioning system 20 with the estimated temperature T_Sfor the subject location j as the setting temperature T_SP.

Simulation Results

FIG. 10 is a structural example of an air-conditioned space that is subject to air-conditioning, Here four blowing vents A, B, C, and D, and nine intake vents, are disposed in the ceiling of the air-conditioned space 30, and three heat producing objects, which are personal computers, or the like, exist on the floor of the air-conditioned space 30. Additionally, target locations i that are subject to air conditioning estimated control, and subject locations j that are subject to air conditioning feedback control are each provided in the air-conditioned space 30.
FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the results of a simulation. Here the changes in the temperatures and airflow speeds in each of the locations in the air-conditioned space 30 are illustrated at time t₀, which is at the beginning of the air conditioning estimated control, time t, at the beginning of air conditioning feedback control, and time t₂, after a specific amount of time has elapsed after the beginning of air conditioning feedback control.
First, for a target location i, the estimated temperature at time t₀, prior to the execution of the air conditioning estimated control, was 27.6° C. and the target temperature was 25.0° C., but through performing the air conditioning estimated control, at time t the estimated temperature changed to 25.0° C., which can be seen to match the initial target temperature.
Additionally, for the blowing vents A through D, at time t₀, prior to the performance of the air conditioning estimated control, the airflow speeds of the blowing air were each 1.00 m/s, and the temperatures were each 26.0° C. and it can be seen that at time t the airflow speeds of the blowing air were changed, respectively, to 1.33 m/s, 1.11 m/s, 1.13 m/s, and 1.05 m/s, and the temperatures were changed, respectively, to 23.4° C., 23.6° C., 25.2° C., and 25.5° C. through the performance of the air conditioning estimated control.
Furthermore, for the blowing vent A, at time t₂, after air conditioning feedback control has been performed, the airflow speed of the blowing air was changed to 0.85 m/s, and the temperature was changed to 23.9° C., and it can be seen that airflow feedback control has been performed for the blowing vent A.
As a result, while at time t, after air conditioning estimated control has been performed, the estimated temperature T_sfor the subject location j was 24.9° C. and the measured temperature T_Mwas 24.5° C., for a temperature error ΔT_SMof 0.4° C., and air conditioning feedback control was performed using, as the setting temperature T_SP, the 24.9° C., which is equal to the estimated temperature T_S, so that at time t₂, thereafter, the measured temperature has changed to 24.5° C., so it can be seen that the measured temperature T_Mhas been made equal to the estimated temperature T_Sthrough performing air conditioning feedback control.
In this way, in the present example, the measured temperature T_Mmeasured at a subject location j within the air-conditioned space 30, after the beginning of the air conditioning estimated control, is compared to a reference temperature pertaining to the subject location j by the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C to evaluate a switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j in order to correct the temperature error ΔT_SM, and if the decision is to switch to the air conditioning feedback control, then there is an instruction from the air conditioning instructing portion 15D to the air conditioning system 20 to start performing air conditioning feedback control operations with the estimated temperature T_Sat the subject location j as the setting temperature T_SP.
This makes it possible to adjust, through the air conditioning feedback control operations by the air conditioning system 20, the difference that is produced when performing air conditioning control using the operating quantities obtained through the distributed system heat flow analysis technique.
Consequently, this enables the provision, to the occupants within the air-conditioned space 30, of a comfortable air conditioning environment, set by the occupants.
Additionally, in the present example whether or not the temperature field at the subject location j has stabilized is checked through comparing the measured temperature change ΔT_MMat the subject location j over a specific evaluation interval Δt to the normal evaluation temperature range T_Din the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C, and the decision to switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j is made based on the temperature error ΔT_SMafter confirming that the temperature field at the subject location j has stabilized, thus making it possible to evaluate the switch to the air conditioning feedback control after confirming that the measured temperature change ΔT_MMis not transient, and that it should be corrected through air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j.
Doing so makes it possible to avoid the inappropriate execution of air conditioning feedback control, through deciding not to switch to air conditioning feedback control when the measured temperature change ΔT_MMis transient.
Moreover, comparing the estimated temperature T_S, which is a standard temperature at the subject location j, obtained from the heat flow analysis processing portion 1513, and the measured temperature T_Mat the subject location j, to the tolerance range T_L, which has been set in advance for the temperature error ΔT_SM, doing so after the start of the air conditioning estimated control, enables the accurate evaluation of the switching to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j because the air conditioning system 20 is instructed by the air conditioning instructing portion 15B to start performing the estimated feedback control operations, with the estimated temperature T_Sat the subject location j as the setting temperature T_SPwhen there is a decision to switch to the air conditioning feedback control through evaluating the switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j in order to correct the temperature error ΔT_Sm.
Next an air conditioning controlling device 10 according to another example is explained in reference to FIG. 12. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the air conditioning feedback control procedure.
In the above example, a case wherein the stability of the temperature field at the subject location j, at that specific point in time, is confirmed to be stable when evaluating the switch to the air conditioning feedback control was explained as an example. In the present example, a case will be explained wherein the evaluation of the switch to the air conditioning feedback control is performed through estimating whether or not the measured temperature T_Mwill converge within the tolerance range T_L, based on the slope of the measured temperature T_Mfor the subject location j.
In the present example, the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C has a function for calculating a measured temperature slope a at the subject location j from the measured temperature change ΔT_MMat the subject location j, obtained through comparing the measured temperature T_Mat the subject location j to a reference temperature that is the measured temperature that was measured at the subject location j a specific time interval ΔJ in the past from the measured temperature T_M, and a function for comparing a reference slope A(ΔT_SM) of the measured temperature T_M, corresponding to the temperature error ΔT_SMthat is set in advance, and the measured temperature slope a, where if the measured temperature T_Mat the subject location j is equal to or greater than the estimated temperature T_Sat the subject location j, and the measured temperature slope a is equal to or greater than the reference slope A(ΔT_SM), or if the measured temperature T_Mat the subject location j is less than the estimated temperature T_Sat the subject location j and the measured temperature slope a is less than the reference slope −A(ΔT_SM), the evaluation is to switch to air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j.
Note that the other structures in the air conditioning controlling device 10 according to the present example are identical to those in the above example, so detailed explanations thereof will be omitted.
The air conditioning feedback control operation, as the operation of the air conditioning controlling device 10 in the present form of embodiment, will be explained next in reference to FIG. 12.
The calculation processing portion 15 of the air conditioning controlling device 10, after executing the air conditioning estimated control procedures of FIG. 7, described above, starts the air conditioning feedback control procedures of FIG. 12.
The air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C first extracts the measured temperature T_Mfor the subject location j from the measured temperature data 14C acquired by the data inputting portion 15A (Step 200), and extracts the estimated temperature T_Sat the subject location j from the distribution data 14D obtained by the heat flow analysis processing portion 15B (Step 201), to calculate the temperature error ΔT_SM(absolute value) between the estimated temperature T_Sand the actual measured temperature T_Mat the subject location j at the current time t (Step 202).
Following this, the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C calculates the slope a=ΔT_MM/Δt of the measured temperature T_Mover the evaluation time interval Δt from the measured temperature change ΔT_MMthat shows the change in the measured temperature T_Mover the evaluation time interval Δt going back from the current time t (Step 203), to obtain a reference slope A(ΔT_SM) at the temperature error ΔT_SMbased on a conversion table or a function equation set in advance in the storing portion 14 (Step 204).
FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the relationship between the temperature error and the reference inclination. A relationship is shown here wherein the reference slope A(ΔT_SM) is monotonically decreasing with an increase in the temperature error ΔT_SM, in both the region wherein the temperature error ΔT_SMis positive and the region wherein it is negative. This relationship is determined by the size of the air-conditioned space 30 and the capability of the air conditioning equipment in the air conditioning system 20, and is controlled by the time constant of the temperature change, and may be obtained through experimentation, or the like, in advance. This relationship may be expressed by a conversion table, or a function equation may be used.
Following this, the measured temperature T_Mand the estimated temperature T_Sare compared (Step 205), and if the measured temperature T_Mis equal to or greater than the estimated temperature T_S(Step 205: YES), then the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C compares the measured temperature slope a to the reference slope A(ΔT_SM) (Step 206).
If at this point the measured temperature slope a is equal to or greater than the reference slope A(ΔT_SM) (Step 206: YES), then the measured temperature T_Mat the subject location j is projected to not converge within the tolerance range T_L, and thus the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C decides to switch to air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j in order to correct the temperature error ΔT_SM, and notifies the air conditioning instructing portion 15D of the setting temperature data 14G wherein the estimated temperature T_Sfor the subject location j is set as a new setting temperature T_SPat the subject location j (Step 207).
The air conditioning instructing portion 15D instructs the air conditioning system, through the communication I/F portion 11, to begin execution of the air conditioning feedback control operation with the estimated temperature T_Sat the subject location j as the setting temperature T_SP, based on the setting temperature data 140 (Step 208); to conclude the series of air conditioning feedback control processes.
On the other hand, if in Step 206, the measured temperature slope a is less than the reference slope A(ΔT_SM) (Step 206: NO), then the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C terminates the series of air conditioning feedback control processes.
Moreover, if in Step 205, the measured temperature T_Mis less than the estimated temperature T_S(Step 205: NO), then the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C compares the measured temperature slope a to the reference slope −A(ΔT_SM).
If at this point the measured temperature slope a is less than the reference slope −A(ΔT_SM) (Step 209: YES), then the measured temperature T_Mat the subject location j is projected to diverge from the tolerance range T_L, and thus the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C decides to switch to air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j in order to correct the temperature error ΔT_SM, and notifies the air conditioning instructing portion 15D of the setting temperature data 14G wherein the estimated temperature T_Sfor the subject location j is set as a new setting temperature T_SPat the subject location j (Step 207).
The air conditioning instructing portion 15D instructs the air conditioning system, through the communication I/F portion 11, to begin execution of the air conditioning feedback control operation with the estimated temperature T_Sat the subject location j as the setting temperature T_SP, based on the setting temperature data 14G (Step 208), to conclude the series of air conditioning feedback control processes.
On the other hand, if in Step 209, the measured temperature slope a is equal to or greater than the reference slope −A(ΔT_SM) (Step 209: NC)), then the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C terminates the series of air conditioning feedback control processes.
FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the air conditioning feedback control operation according to another example. Here air conditioning estimated control starts at time t₀, and the measured temperature T_Mat a subject location j falls gradually from the temperature T_M, and thereafter falls monotonically to temperature T^t _Mat the present time t, and the slope of the measured temperature goes to a.
While in this case the measured temperature T_Mat time t is greater than or equal to the estimated temperature T_S, the measured temperature slope a is less than the reference slope −A(ΔT_SM), so the measured temperature T_Mis changing (in this case, failing) gradually, and thus it can be anticipated that the measured temperature T_Mwill converge in the future within the tolerance range T_L.
FIG. 15 is another explanatory diagram illustrating the air conditioning feedback control operation according to another example. While in this case the measured temperature T_Mat time t is less than the estimated temperature T_S, the measured temperature slope a is greater than the reference slope −A(ΔT_SM), so the measured temperature T_Mis changing (in this case, falling) relatively quickly, and thus it can be anticipated that the measured temperature T_Mwill diverge in the future from the tolerance range T_L.
In this way, in the present example, in the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C, a measured temperature slope a at a subject location j is calculated from the measured temperature change ΔT_MMat the subject location j over a specific evaluation time interval, and compared to a reference slope MΔT_SM) for the measured temperature T_M, corresponding to a temperature error ΔT_SM, set in advance, where if the measured temperature T_Mis equal to or greater than the estimated temperature T_Sand the measured temperature slope a is equal to or greater than the reference slope A(ΔT_SM), or if the measured temperature T_Mis less than the estimated temperature T_Sand the measured temperature slope a is less than the reference slope −A(ΔT_SM), then the decision is to switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j.
As a result, it is possible to evaluate the switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j quickly, rather than having to wait until the point in time wherein it is possible to confirm whether or not the measured temperature T_Mhas converged within the tolerance range T_L, after the temperature field of the subject location j has stabilized after starting the air conditioning estimated control. Consequently, when there is a decision to switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j, it is possible to start the air conditioning feedback control after a short period of time after the start of the air conditioning estimated control, resulting in the ability to correct the temperature error at the subject location j more quickly.
Next an air conditioner controlling device 10 according to a further example of the present invention is explained in reference to FIG. 16. FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating the air conditioning feedback control procedure according to this example.
In the above example, a case wherein the stability of the temperature field at the subject location j, at that specific point in time, is confirmed to be stable when evaluating the switch to the air conditioning feedback control was explained as an example. In the present example, a case wherein the evaluation of the switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j is made at a point in time wherein a specific wait time t_Whas elapsed after the start of air conditioning estimated control is explained.
In the present example, the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C has a function for timing the elapsed time Δt from the start of the air conditioning estimated control, and a function for comparing the elapsed time Δt to the wait time t_Wthat is set in the storing portion 14, and to evaluate the switch to the air conditioning feedback control for a subject location j at the point in time that the elapsed time Δt is equal to or greater than the wait time t_W.
Note that the other structures in the air conditioning controlling device 10 according to the example are identical to those in the above example, so detailed explanations thereof will be omitted.
The air conditioning feedback control operation, as the operation of the air conditioning controlling device 10 in the present example, is explained next in reference to FIG. 16.
The calculation processing portion 15 of the air conditioning controlling device 10, after executing the air conditioning estimated control procedures of FIG. 7, described above, starts the air conditioning feedback control procedures of FIG. 16.
The air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C first times the elapsed time Δt until the current time from the start of the air conditioning estimated control using the heat flow analysis processing portion 15B (Step 300), and compares the elapsed time Δt to the wan time t_Wthat is set in the storing portion 14 (Step 301).
If, at this point, the elapsed time Δt is less than the wait time t_W(Step 301: NO), then processing returns to Step 300.
On the other hand, if the elapsed time Δt is equal to or greater than the wait time t_W(Step 301: YES), then the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C decides to switch to air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j, and notifies the air conditioning instructing portion 15D of the setting temperature data 140 wherein the estimated temperature T_Sfor the subject location j is set as a new setting temperature T_SPat the subject location j (Step 302).
The air conditioning instructing portion 151) instructs the air conditioning system, through the communication I/F portion 111, to begin execution of the air conditioning feedback control operation with the estimated temperature T_Sat the subject location j as the setting temperature T_SP, based on the setting temperature data 140 (Step 303), to conclude the series of air conditioning feedback control processes.
FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the air conditioning feedback control operation according to this example. Here air conditioning estimated control starts at time t₀, and the measured temperature T_Mat a subject location j falls gradually from the temperature T^t0 _M, and thereafter falls monotonically to temperature T^t _Mat the present time t.
In this case, regardless of the measured temperature T_M, at time t₂, when the wait time t_Whas elapsed since time t₀, a decision is made to switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location j.
In this way, in the present example, a decision is made in the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15C to switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location at the point in time when a specific wait time t_Whas elapsed since the beginning of the air conditioning estimated control, thus making it possible to simplify extremely the evaluating process in the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion 15.
While the present invention was explained above in reference to examples, the present invention is not limited by the examples set forth above. The structures and details of the present invention may be modified in a variety of ways, as can be understood by those skilled in the art, within the scope of the present invention.
Additionally, in each example, the explanations they were used as examples were for cases wherein a target temperature at a target location i was used as target data to control the air conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space 30 in its entirety through air conditioning estimated control using a distributed system heat flow analysis technique, where the temperature error at a subject location j that is produced at this time is corrected through air conditioning feedback control. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, airflow speeds and humidities may be inputted as target data, instead of the target temperatures, for the target locations in the air conditioning estimated control, and the airflow speeds and humidities may be used as the target state quantities. Moreover, in the air conditioning feedback control, the errors in the airflow speeds and humidities, instead of the errors in the temperatures, at the subject locations j may be corrected through the air conditioning feedback control.

Claims

1. An air conditioning controlling device, equipped with a heat flow analysis processing portion for using a distributed system heat flow analysis technique to estimate distributions of temperatures and airflows in an air-conditioned space from an inputted state of air conditioning of the air-conditioned space, and for estimating an operating quantity pertaining to air conditioning control based on these distributions and on a target temperature in a target location within the air-conditioned space, for performing air conditioning estimated control, based on the operating quantity obtained from the heat flow analysis processing portion, for controlling the air conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space in its entirety through regulating, through an air conditioning system, a conditioned air blowing speed and blowing temperature at individual blowing vents provided within the air-conditioned space; comprising:

an air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion performing an evaluation for switching to an air conditioning feedback control based on an end condition of the effect of the air conditioning estimated control, set in advance, after the air conditioning estimated control has started; and

an air conditioning instructing portion instructing the air conditioning system to start executing the air conditioning feedback control operations with the estimated temperature as the setting temperature when it has been decided by the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion to switch to the air conditioning feedback control.

2. The air conditioning controlling device as set forth in claim 1, wherein:

the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion checks whether a temperature field has stabilized at a subject location through comparing the measured temperature change at the specific subject location during a specific evaluation time interval to a normal evaluation temperature range, and if the stability of the temperature field at the subject location is confirmed, decides to switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location.

3. The air conditioning controlling device as set forth in claim 1, wherein:

the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion decides to switch to air conditioning feedback control for a subject location, in order to correct a temperature error, through comparing, to a tolerance range that is set in advance for the temperature error, a temperature error between the measured temperature and a reference temperature that is an estimated temperature at the specific subject location, obtained through the heat flow analysis processing portion, after the air conditioning estimated control has been started.

4. The air conditioning controlling device as set forth in claim 1, wherein:

the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion compares the measured temperature to a reference temperature, which is the measured temperature measured at the specific subject location at a time that is a specific evaluation time interval prior to the measured temperature, and calculates a measured temperature slope for the subject location from the measured temperature change obtained for the subject location, and decides to switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location when the measured temperature at the target location is equal to or greater than the estimated temperature at the subject location and the measured temperature slope is equal to or greater than a reference slope for the measured temperature corresponding to the temperature error, set in advance, and when the measured temperature for the target location is less than the estimated temperature and the measured temperature slope is less than a reference slope for the measured temperature, corresponding to the temperature error, set in advance.

5. The air conditioning controlling device as set forth in claim 1, wherein:

the air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion decides to switch to the air conditioning feedback control at the point in time that a specific wait time has elapsed after the start of the air conditioning estimated control.

6. An air conditioning controlling method used in an air conditioning controlling device that is equipped with a heat flow analysis processing portion for using a distributed system heat flow analysis technique to estimate distributions of temperatures and airflows in an air-conditioned space from an inputted state of air conditioning of the air-conditioned space, and for estimating an operating quantity pertaining to air conditioning control based on these distributions and on a target temperature in a target location within the air-conditioned space, for performing air conditioning estimated control, based on the operating quantity obtained from the heat flow analysis processing portion, for controlling the air conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space in its entirety through regulating, through an air conditioning system, a conditioned air blowing speed and blowing temperature at individual blowing vents provided within the air-conditioned space; comprising:

an air conditioning feedback control evaluating step wherein an air conditioning feedback control evaluating portion performs an evaluation for switching to an air conditioning feedback control based on an end condition of the effect of the air conditioning estimated control, set in advance, after the air conditioning estimated control has started; and

an air conditioning instructing step wherein an air conditioning instructing portion instructs the air conditioning system to start executing the air conditioning feedback control operations with the estimated temperature as the setting temperature when it has been decided by the air conditioning feedback control evaluating step to switch to the air conditioning feedback control.

7. The air conditioning controlling method as set forth in claim 6, wherein:

the air conditioning feedback control evaluating step checks whether a temperature field has stabilized at a subject location through comparing the measured temperature change at the specific subject location during a specific evaluation time interval to a normal evaluation temperature range, and if the stability of the temperature field at the subject location is confirmed, switches to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location.

8. The air conditioning controlling method as set forth in claim 6, wherein:

the air conditioning feedback control evaluating step decides to switch to air conditioning feedback control for a subject location, in order to correct a temperature error, through comparing, to a tolerance range that is set in advance for the temperature error, a temperature error between the measured temperature and a reference temperature that is an estimated temperature at the specific subject location, obtained through the heat flow analysis processing portion, after the air conditioning estimated control has been started.

9. The air conditioning controlling method as set forth in claim 6, wherein:

the air conditioning feedback control evaluating step compares the measured temperature to a reference temperature, which is the measured temperature measured at the specific subject location at a time that is a specific evaluation time interval prior to the measured temperature, and calculates a measured temperature slope for the subject location from the measured temperature change obtained for the subject location, and decides to switch to the air conditioning feedback control for the subject location when the measured temperature at the target location is equal to or greater than the estimated temperature at the subject location and the measured temperature slope is equal to or greater than a reference slope for the measured temperature corresponding to the temperature error, set in advance, and when the measured temperature for the target location is less than the estimated temperature and the measured temperature slope is less than a reference slope for the measured temperature, corresponding to the temperature error, set in advance.

10. The air conditioning controlling method as set forth in claim 6, wherein:

the air conditioning feedback control evaluating step decides to switch to the air conditioning feedback control at the point in time that a specific wait time has elapsed after the start of the air conditioning estimated control.