VENTILATION DEVICE

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a bypass continuation of International Application No. PCT/JP2024/007501, filed Feb. 29, 2024, which claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-043493, filed Mar. 17, 2023, the entire contents of each of which is incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a ventilation device.

BACKGROUND ART

Patent Document 1 discloses an air conditioner including an air intake/exhaust device that discharges indoor air to the outside of a room. That is, the air conditioner forms a ventilation device that ventilates an indoor space, which is a target space.

CITATION LIST

Patent Document

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 3992722

SUMMARY

A first aspect is directed to a ventilation device including: a ventilation unit configured to ventilate a target space; an irradiation unit configured to sterilize air in the target space with an ultraviolet ray; and a control unit configured to control a ventilation amount of the ventilation unit and an output of the irradiation unit in coordination.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a schematic piping system diagram of the air conditioner.

FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram illustrating an internal structure of an indoor unit.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating main devices of the air conditioner.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of coordinated control.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart according to Variation 1A.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart according to Variation 1B.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart according to Variation 1C.

FIG. 9 is a view according to Variation 2A, corresponding to FIG. 3.

FIG. 10 is a view according to another example of Variation 2A, corresponding to FIG. 3.

FIG. 11 is a view according to Variation 2B, corresponding to FIG. 3.

FIG. 12 is an overall configuration diagram of a ventilation device according to Variation 3, illustrating an air flow in a ventilation operation.

FIG. 13 is an overall configuration diagram of the ventilation device according to Variation 3, illustrating an air flow in a circulation operation.

FIG. 14 is a schematic overall configuration diagram of a ventilation system according to Variation 4.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various changes can be made within the scope without departing from the technical concept of the present disclosure. Since each of the drawings is intended to illustrate the present disclosure conceptually, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary for the sake of ease of understanding.

(1) Configuration of Ventilation Device

A ventilation device of the present embodiment forms an air conditioner (10). The air conditioner (10) adjusts the temperature of air in an indoor space (I), which is a target space. The air conditioner (10) includes a ventilation unit (50) that ventilates the indoor space (I), and an irradiation unit (60) that sterilizes air in the indoor space (I) with ultraviolet rays. The air conditioner (10) includes a control unit (C) that controls the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) and the output of the irradiation unit (60) in coordination.

(1-1) General Configuration

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the air conditioner (10) has an outdoor unit (20), an indoor unit (30), and two connection pipes (12, 13). The outdoor unit (20) and the indoor unit (30) are connected to each other via the two connection pipes (12, 13) to form a refrigerant circuit (11). The refrigerant circuit (11) circulates refrigerant therethrough to perform a refrigeration cycle.

(1-2) Outdoor Unit

The outdoor unit (20) is installed outdoors. The outdoor unit (20) has an outdoor casing (20a), a compressor (21), an outdoor heat exchanger (22), an expansion valve (23), a four-way switching valve (24), and an outdoor fan (25).

The four-way switching valve (24) switches between a first state (state indicated by a solid line in FIG. 2) and a second state (state indicated by a broken line in FIG. 2).

(1-3) Indoor Unit

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the indoor unit (30) is installed in the indoor space (I). The indoor unit (30) has an indoor casing (30a) which is a first casing, an indoor heat exchanger (32) which is a first heat exchanger, an indoor fan (33), and a flap (35). The indoor unit (30) has the irradiation unit (60) that emits ultraviolet rays.

The indoor casing (30a) houses the indoor heat exchanger (32) and the indoor fan (33). The indoor casing (30a) has an inlet (41) and an outlet (42). The inlet (41) is formed in an upper portion of the indoor casing (30a). The outlet (42) is formed near the front side in a lower portion of the indoor casing (30a). An air passage (43) is formed between the inlet (41) and the outlet (42).

The indoor heat exchanger (32) is disposed upstream of the indoor fan (33) in the air passage (43). The indoor heat exchanger (32) allows heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing through the indoor heat exchanger (32) and air transferred by the indoor fan (33).

The indoor fan (33) is rotationally driven by a fan motor (33a). The indoor fan (33) transfers the air in the air passage (43). The indoor fan (33) is configured to be capable of adjusting the volume of blown air to be supplied to the indoor space (I) through the outlet (42). The number of rotations of the fan motor (33a) is adjusted to adjust the volume of blown air.

(1-3) Ventilation Unit

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the ventilation unit (50) has a duct (51), a ventilation casing (52) connected to the duct (51), and a ventilation fan (53) housed in the ventilation casing (52).

The duct (51) forms a communication passage that allows communication between the indoor space (I) and an outdoor space (O). The duct (51) is a member forming a flow path through which air flows, and includes a flexible hose and tube. A through-hole (5) is formed in a wall (W) partitioning the indoor space (I) and the outdoor space (O). The duct (51) passes through the through-hole (5) together with the connection pipes (12, 13). One end of the duct (51) is connected to the air passage (43) in the indoor casing (30a). As illustrated in FIG. 3, the air passage (43) is provided with a connection port (44) to which one end of the duct (51) is connected. The connection port (44) is formed in the indoor casing (30a). The other end of the duct (51) communicates with the outdoor space (O).

The ventilation casing (52) is installed outdoors. The ventilation casing (52) has a first opening (52a) and a second opening (52b). The other end of the duct (51) is connected to the first opening (52a). The second opening (52b) opens toward the outdoor space (O). A flow path through which air flows is formed inside the ventilation casing (52).

The ventilation fan (53) is disposed inside the ventilation casing (52). The ventilation fan (53) transfers air in the duct (51). The ventilation fan (53) of the present embodiment is an exhaust fan that transfers air in the duct (51) toward the outdoor space (O). The ventilation fan (53) is configured such that an air volume is variable. Specifically, a first motor (53a) of the ventilation fan (53) is configured such that the number of rotations is variable.

As schematically illustrated in FIG. 2, the ventilation unit (50) has an opening/closing mechanism (54). The opening/closing mechanism (54) opens and closes the flow path in the duct (51). The opening/closing mechanism (54) comprises a damper, a shutter, an on-off valve, etc. The opening/closing mechanism (54) opens and closes the connection port (44) of the duct (51).

(1-4) Irradiation Unit

The irradiation unit (60) inactivates viruses and bacteria in air by irradiating the air with ultraviolet rays. As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 4, the irradiation unit (60) has a light emitting diode (LED) (61) and a circuit board (62) that controls the LED (61).

The LED (61) is a light emitting source that emits ultraviolet rays. The peak wavelength of the ultraviolet ray emitted from the LED (61) is 280 nm or less. Thus, it is possible to enhance the air sterilization effect. The peak wavelength of the ultraviolet ray emitted from the LED (61) is preferably 255 nm or more and 275 nm or less. Thus, it is possible to enhance the air sterilization effect in particular. The peak wavelength of the ultraviolet ray emitted from the LED (61) may be 230 nm or less. This can improve safety for the human body in terms of exposure in the event of ultraviolet ray leakage from the indoor casing (30a).

The circuit board (62) includes a control board for controlling the LED (61). Specifically, the circuit board (62) includes a control device for switching the LED (61) ON and OFF and adjusting the output of the LED (61) (specifically, the illuminance of the LED (61)). The control device of the circuit board (62) may be provided in the control unit (C) for controlling the air conditioner (10).

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the irradiation unit (60) of the present embodiment is disposed, in the air passage (43), downstream of the connection port (44) of the duct (51) in an air flow. The irradiation unit (60) is disposed between the indoor heat exchanger (32) and the indoor fan (33). The irradiation unit (60) may be disposed between the connection port (44) and the indoor heat exchanger (32).

(1-5) Remote Controller

As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 4, the air conditioner (10) includes a remote controller (70). The remote controller (70) has an operation unit (71) and a display unit (72). The operation unit (71) allows a user to input various instructions to the air conditioner (10). The operation unit (71) comprises a button, a switch, a touch panel, and the like. The instructions described herein include those for switching the air conditioner (10) ON and OFF, selecting the operating mode of the air conditioner (10), and changing the set temperature of the indoor space (I). The display unit (72) displays information on the state and operation of the air conditioner (10). This information includes the operating mode and set temperature of the air conditioner (10).

In the present embodiment, the user can set the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) and the target output of the irradiation unit (60) by operating the operation unit (71). Here, the output of the irradiation unit (60) is equivalent to the intensity or illuminance of the LED (61).

(1-6) Sensor

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the air conditioner (10) has a plurality of sensors. In the present embodiment, the plurality of sensors includes an indoor temperature sensor (80), an infrared sensor (81), and an outdoor temperature sensor (82). The indoor temperature sensor (80) detects the temperature of the indoor air in the indoor space (I). The indoor temperature sensor (80) is disposed, for example, near the inlet (41). The infrared sensor (81) is a human detection unit that detects the number of persons present in the indoor space (I). The infrared sensor (81) is disposed on the front surface of the indoor casing (30a). The outdoor temperature sensor (82) detects the temperature of the outdoor air in the outdoor space (O). The outdoor temperature sensor (82) is provided in the outdoor unit (20).

(1-7) Control Unit

The control unit (C) controls the air conditioner (10), which is the ventilation device. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the control unit (C) has an indoor control unit (IC), an outdoor control unit (OC), and an operation control unit (RC). The indoor control unit (IC), the outdoor control unit (OC), and the operation control unit (RC) are configured to communicate with each other in a wired or wireless manner. Each of the indoor control unit (IC), the outdoor control unit (OC), and the operation control unit (RC) includes a micro control unit (MCU), an electric circuit, and an electronic circuit. The MCU includes a central processing unit (CPU), a memory, and a communication interface. The memory stores various programs to be executed by the CPU.

The outdoor control unit (OC) is provided in the outdoor unit (20). The outdoor control unit (OC) is disposed inside the outdoor casing (20a). The outdoor control unit (OC) controls a mechanical element provided in the outdoor unit (20). The outdoor control unit (OC) controls the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50). Specifically, the outdoor control unit (OC) switches the ventilation fan (53) ON and OFF and adjusts the air volume of the ventilation fan (53). Here, the air volume of the ventilation fan (53) is equivalent to the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50). The outdoor control unit (OC) controls the number of rotations of the first motor (53a) to adjust the air volume of the ventilation unit (50). The detection signal of the outdoor temperature sensor (82) is input to the outdoor control unit (OC).

The indoor control unit (IC) is provided in the indoor unit (30). The indoor control unit (IC) is disposed inside the indoor casing (30a). The indoor control unit (IC) controls a mechanical element provided in the indoor unit (30). The indoor control unit (IC) controls the output of the irradiation unit (60). Here, the output of the irradiation unit (60) of the present embodiment is the illuminance (ultraviolet intensity) of the LED (61). The indoor control unit (IC) switches the LED (61) of the irradiation unit (60) ON and OFF and adjusts the output (ultraviolet intensity) of the LED (61). The detection signals of the indoor temperature sensor (80) and the infrared sensor (81) are input to the indoor control unit (IC).

The operation control unit (RC) transmits, to the indoor control unit (IC), a command related to the operating mode or the set temperature input by a user using the operation unit (71). This command is transmitted from the indoor control unit (IC) to the outdoor control unit (OC).

(2) Operation

The air conditioner (10) performs a cooling operation, a heating operation, and a ventilation operation.

(2-1) Cooling Operation

The cooling operation is an operation for cooling air in the indoor space (I) so that the air in the indoor space (I) approaches a set temperature (target temperature). In the cooling operation, the control unit (C) operates the compressor (21), the outdoor fan (25), and the indoor fan (33), brings the four-way switching valve (24) into the first state, and adjusts the opening degree of the expansion valve (23). The control unit (C) brings the opening/closing mechanism (54) into a closed state and stops the ventilation fan (53) and the irradiation unit (60).

In the cooling operation, the refrigerant compressed in the compressor (21) dissipates heat in the outdoor heat exchanger (22) and is then decompressed by the expansion valve (23). The decompressed refrigerant evaporates in the indoor heat exchanger (32). The air cooled in the indoor heat exchanger (32) is supplied to the indoor space (I). The refrigerant evaporated in the indoor heat exchanger (32) is sucked into the compressor (21).

(2-2) Heating Operation

The heating operation is an operation for heating air in the indoor space (I) so that the air in the indoor space (I) approaches the set temperature (target temperature). In the heating operation, the control unit (C) operates the compressor (21), the outdoor fan (25), and the indoor fan (33), brings the four-way switching valve (24) into the second state, and adjusts the opening degree of the expansion valve (23). The control unit (C) brings the opening/closing mechanism (54) into the closed state, and stops the ventilation fan (53). The control unit (C) brings the opening/closing mechanism (54) into the closed state and stops the ventilation fan (53) and the irradiation unit (60).

In the heating operation, the refrigerant compressed in the compressor (21) dissipates heat in the indoor heat exchanger (32) and is then decompressed by the expansion valve (23). The air heated in the indoor heat exchanger (32) is supplied to the indoor space (I). The decompressed refrigerant evaporates in the outdoor heat exchanger (22), and is then sucked into the compressor (21).

(2-3) Ventilation Operation

The ventilation operation is an operation for ventilating the indoor space (I). In the ventilation operation of the present embodiment, the indoor air in the indoor space (I) is discharged to the outdoor space (O). In the ventilation operation, the ventilation unit (50) and the irradiation unit (60) are operated to reduce viruses and bacteria in the indoor space (I). The ventilation operation includes a ventilation-only operation, a cooling ventilation operation, and a heating ventilation operation.

In the ventilation-only operation, the control unit (C) stops the compressor (21) and the outdoor fan (25) and operates the indoor fan (33). The control unit (C) brings the opening/closing mechanism (54) into an open state and operates the ventilation fan (53). The control unit (C) turns on the irradiation unit (60) as appropriate according to an operation condition.

In the ventilation-only operation, the indoor air in the indoor space (I) flows into the air passage (43) through the inlet (41). Part of the air in the air passage (43) flows into the duct (51) through the connection port (44) (see a solid arrow in FIG. 3). The air that has flowed into the duct (51) is discharged to the outdoor space (O). The remaining air in the air passage (43) passes through the irradiation unit (60) in the ON state.

The LED (61) of the irradiation unit (60) irradiates the air with ultraviolet rays. This inactivates viruses and bacteria in the air. The air that has passed through the irradiation unit (60) is supplied to the indoor space (I) through the outlet (42).

In the cooling ventilation operation, the control unit (C) operates the compressor (21), the outdoor fan (25), and the indoor fan (33), brings the four-way switching valve (24) into the first state, and adjusts the opening degree of the expansion valve (23). At the same time, the control unit (C) opens the opening/closing mechanism (54) and operates the irradiation unit (60) and the ventilation unit (50). Thus, the indoor space (I) is cooled and ventilated at the same time.

In the heating ventilation operation, the control unit (C) operates the compressor (21), the outdoor fan (25), and the indoor fan (33), brings the four-way switching valve (24) into the second state, and adjusts the opening degree of the expansion valve (23). At the same time, the control unit (C) opens the opening/closing mechanism (54) and operates the irradiation unit (60) and the ventilation unit (50). Thus, the indoor space (I) is heated and ventilated at the same time.

(3) Coordinated Control

In the ventilation operation described above, the control unit (C) controls the irradiation unit (60) and the ventilation unit (50) in coordination. Details of the coordinated control will be described with reference to FIG. 5. In the air conditioner (10) of the present embodiment, the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) is determined in preference to the output of the irradiation unit (60).

When a ventilation operation start command is input to the control unit (C), the control unit (C) specifies the number of persons present in the indoor space (I), which is the target space, in Step ST1. Specifically, the control unit (C) specifies the number of persons in the indoor space (I) based on the signal detected by the infrared sensor (81).

In Step ST2, the control unit (C) calculates a required ventilation amount Vn for the indoor space (I). The required ventilation amount Vn means a ventilation amount required for measures against viral infection. The required ventilation amount Vn is expressed by, for example, Expression (1) below.

Vn=α×n . . .   (1)

Here, α is a required ventilation amount per person in the indoor space (I), and is, for example, 30 [m³/h/person]; and n is the number of persons present in the indoor space (I).

In Step ST3, the control unit (C) determines the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50). The target ventilation amount is equivalent, for example, to a set ventilation amount set in advance by the user.

In Step ST4, the control unit (C) determines an equivalent ventilation amount of the irradiation unit (60) at which the total ventilation amount Vt of the air conditioner (10) is the required ventilation amount Vn or more.

Here, the total ventilation amount Vt is expressed by Expression (2) below.

Total Ventilation Amount Vt=Ventilation Amount V1 of Ventilation Unit+Forced Ventilation Amount V2+Equivalent Ventilation Amount Ve . . .   (2)

The total ventilation amount Vt is the ventilation amount for the entire indoor space (I) for lowering the risk of infection. Thus, when the total ventilation amount Vt becomes equal to or greater than the required ventilation amount Vn, the viruses and bacteria in the indoor space (I) can be treated adequately.

The ventilation amount V1 of the ventilation unit (50) is the ventilation amount for the indoor space (I) by the ventilation unit (50). In the present embodiment, the target ventilation amount determined in Step ST3 is used as the ventilation amount V1.

The forced ventilation amount V2 is obtained by multiplying air changes per hour (forced ventilation) required by the Building Standards Act by the volume of the indoor space (I). For example, an installer, the user, or the like sets the forced ventilation amount V2 and the volume of the indoor space (I) in the control unit (C) via the remote controller (70) or the like.

The equivalent ventilation amount Ve is the ventilation amount for the indoor space (I) corresponding to the output of the irradiation unit (60). The equivalent ventilation amount Ve is the ventilation amount for the indoor space (I) that is equivalent to the sterilization effect of the irradiation unit (60). When the air is irradiated with ultraviolet rays by the irradiation unit (60), the viruses and bacteria are inactivated; therefore, the risk of infection such as airborne infection, droplet infection, or aerosol infection can be reduced. The equivalent ventilation amount Ve can be obtained by multiplying air changes per hour ACH [1/h] corresponding to the output of the irradiation unit (60) by the volume of the indoor space (I). Here, air changes per hour ACH is equivalent to a virus or bacterium attenuation rate (sterilization capability) by the irradiation unit (60), and is an index corresponding to the output of the irradiation unit (60).

The control unit (C) stores first data in which the output of the irradiation unit (60) and the equivalent ventilation amount are associated with each other. This data may be the function of the output of the irradiation unit (60) and the equivalent ventilation amount Ve, or may be a data table having a plurality of outputs of the irradiation unit (60) and the equivalent ventilation amount Ve corresponding to each output of the irradiation unit (60).

In Step ST4, the control unit (C) obtains the equivalent ventilation amount Ve of the irradiation unit (60) such that the total ventilation amount Vt obtained from the above Expression (2) becomes equal to or greater than the required ventilation amount Vn. In the present embodiment, the control unit (C) obtains the equivalent ventilation amount Ve at which the total ventilation amount Vt is equal to the required ventilation amount Vn. If the sum of the ventilation amount V1 of the ventilation unit (50) and the forced ventilation amount V2 is equal to or greater than the total ventilation amount Vt, the equivalent ventilation amount Ve is zero.

In Step ST5, the control unit (C) determines, based on the first data, the target output of the irradiation unit (60) corresponding to the equivalent ventilation amount Ve. If the equivalent ventilation amount Ve is zero, the target output of the irradiation unit (60) is zero.

In Step ST6, the control unit (C) controls the ventilation unit (50) and the irradiation unit (60) using the target ventilation amount determined in Step ST2 and the target output of the irradiation unit (60) determined in Step ST5 as control commands. Specifically, the control unit (C) controls the ventilation fan (53) of the ventilation unit (50) such that the air volume of the ventilation fan (53) approaches the target ventilation amount. The control unit (C) controls the irradiation unit (60) such that the output of the irradiation unit (60) approaches the target output. If the target output of the irradiation unit (60) is zero, the control unit (C) turns off the irradiation unit (60).

By the above-described control, the total ventilation amount Vt becomes equal to or greater than the required ventilation amount Vn in the ventilation operation. As a result, the viruses and bacteria in the indoor space (I) can be treated appropriately.

Thereafter, if the number of persons in the target space (I) increases, the required ventilation amount Vn determined in Step ST2 increases. In this case, the equivalent ventilation amount Ve determined in Step ST4 increases, and the target output of the irradiation unit (60) determined in Step ST5 also increases.

Conversely, if the number of persons in the target space (I) decreases, the required ventilation amount Vn determined in Step ST2 decreases. In this case, the equivalent ventilation amount Ve determined in Step ST4 decreases, and the target output of the irradiation unit (60) determined in Step ST5 also decreases.

The target ventilation amount (ventilation amount V1) of the ventilation unit (50) in Step ST3 may be increased due to changes in settings by the user or the like. In this case, the equivalent ventilation amount Ve determined in Step ST4 decreases, and the target output of the irradiation unit (60) determined in Step ST5 also decreases.

Conversely, the target ventilation amount (ventilation amount V1) of the ventilation unit (50) in Step ST3 may be decreased due to changes in settings by the user or the like. In this case, the equivalent ventilation amount Ve determined in Step ST4 increases, and the target output of the irradiation unit (60) determined in Step ST5 also increases.

(4) Advantages of Embodiment

Since the control unit (C) controls the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) and the output of the irradiation unit (60) in coordination, the viruses and bacteria in the indoor space (I) can be treated appropriately.

The control unit (C) controls the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) and the output of the irradiation unit (60) in coordination such that the output of the irradiation unit (60) increases as the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) decreases.

In this configuration, if the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) is insufficient, the output of the irradiation unit (60) is increased, thereby making it possible to treat the viruses and bacteria in the indoor space (I) appropriately. Conversely, if the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) is sufficiently large, the output of the irradiation unit (60) is decreased, thereby making it possible to reduce the power consumption of the irradiation unit (60).

The control unit (C) controls the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) and the output of the irradiation unit (60) in coordination based on the equivalent ventilation amount Ve, which is the ventilation amount for the indoor space (I) corresponding to the output of the irradiation unit (60).

In this configuration, the equivalent ventilation amount Ve corresponding to the output of the irradiation unit (60) is obtained, thereby making it possible to achieve ventilation that takes into account the effect of the irradiation unit (60) in reducing the risk of infection.

The control unit (C) controls the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) and the output of the irradiation unit (60) in coordination such that the total ventilation amount Vt based on the sum of the equivalent ventilation amount Ve corresponding to the output of the irradiation unit (60) and the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) becomes equal to or greater than the required ventilation amount Vn for the indoor space (I).

In this configuration, by setting the total ventilation amount Vt to be equal to or greater than the required ventilation amount Vn, the viruses and the bacteria in the indoor space (I) can be treated reliably.

The control unit (C) controls the ventilation unit (50) such that the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) becomes the target ventilation amount. The control unit (C) controls the output of the irradiation unit (60) such that the total ventilation amount Vt based on the sum of the equivalent ventilation amount Ve corresponding to the output of the irradiation unit (60) and the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) becomes equal to or greater than the required ventilation amount Vn.

This configuration enables the ventilation unit (50) to operate at a set target ventilation amount. If the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) is insufficient relative to the required ventilation amount, the irradiation unit (60) is turned on, or the output of the irradiation unit (60) is increased, to compensate for the insufficiency. If the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) is excessive relative to the required ventilation amount, the irradiation unit (60) is turned off, or the output of the irradiation unit (60) is decreased, to reduce the power consumption of the irradiation unit (60).

The control unit (C) determines the required ventilation amount based on the number of persons in the indoor space (I).

This configuration enables ventilation that takes into account the infection risk according to the number of persons in the room.

The air conditioner (10) includes: the indoor casing (30a) in which the air passage (43) through which air in the indoor space (I) flows is formed; and the indoor heat exchanger (32) disposed in the air passage (43). The ventilation unit (50) has a duct (51) that allows communication between an outdoor space (O) and the air passage (43). The irradiation unit (60) is disposed in the air passage (43) or the duct (51).

In this configuration, a ventilation function of the ventilation unit (50) can be added to the air conditioner (10). In addition, a sterilizing function of the irradiation unit (60), as well as a ventilation function that contributes to reducing the risk of infection, can be added to the air conditioner (10).

The ventilation unit (50) is configured to discharge air in the air passage (43) to the outdoor space (O) through the duct (51). The irradiation unit (60) is disposed, in the air passage (43), downstream of the connection port (44) of the duct (51) in the air flow.

This configuration can reduce the likelihood that the air sterilized by the irradiation unit (60) is discharged to the outside of the room through the duct (51). It is thus possible to reduce the likelihood that the actual equivalent ventilation amount of the irradiation unit (60) is less than the equivalent ventilation amount Ve determined.

(5) Variations of Embodiment

The above-described embodiment may be modified as follows. Hereinafter, differences from the above-described embodiment will be described.

(5-1) Variation 1: Variations of Coordinated Control

The coordinated control of the above-described embodiment may be modified as follows.

(5-1A) Variation 1A

In the coordinated control of Variation 1A, the control unit (C) reduces the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) when a temperature difference between the outdoor air and the indoor air is large. The control unit (C) performs control illustrated in FIG. 6 between Steps ST2 and ST3 in FIG. 5 described in the above-described embodiment. In Step ST11, the control unit (C) acquires an indoor temperature Ti. The indoor temperature Ti is detected by the indoor temperature sensor (80). The detected indoor temperature Ti is input to the control unit (C). In Step ST12, the control unit (C) acquires an outdoor temperature To. The outdoor temperature To is detected by the outdoor temperature sensor (82). The detected outdoor temperature To is input to the control unit (C).

In Step ST13, the control unit (C) determines whether a difference ΔT between the indoor temperature Ti and the outdoor temperature To is a predetermined value or more. If ventilation is performed when ΔT is large, the air-conditioning load of the indoor space (I) increases. In particular, as will be described in detail later, this problem becomes more significant during ventilation in which outdoor air in the outdoor space (O) is supplied to the indoor space (I), and ventilation in which indoor air in the indoor space (I) is discharged to the outdoor space (O) simultaneously with the supply of outdoor air in the outdoor space (O) to the indoor space (I). Thus, if ΔT is the predetermined value or more in Step ST13, the control unit (C) reduces the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) in Step ST15. If ΔT is not equal to or greater than the predetermined value in Step ST13, the control unit (C) maintains the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) in Step ST14.

If the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) is decreased in Step ST15, the target ventilation amount (ventilation amount V1) determined in Step ST3 is decreased. As a result, the equivalent ventilation amount Ve of the irradiation unit (60) increases in Step ST4, and the target output of the irradiation unit (60) increases in Step ST5. As a result, it is possible to treat the viruses and bacteria in the indoor space (I) adequately, while reducing the likelihood of an increase in the air-conditioning load of the indoor space (I) due to the entry of the outside air into the indoor space (I).

In Step ST11, the indoor temperature sensor (80) configured to detect the temperature of the indoor air may be disposed in the vicinity of the outlet (42), at a predetermined position in the indoor space (I), or on the remote controller (70). In Step ST11, the set temperature of the indoor space (I) in the cooling ventilation operation or the heating ventilation operation may be used instead of the temperature of the indoor air because the temperature of the indoor air converges to the set temperature. The control unit (C) may acquire the outdoor temperature included in weather information or the like from an external data server via a network.

If ΔT is the predetermined value or less in Step ST13, the control unit (C) may increase the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) in Step ST15. In this configuration, if ΔT is not equal to or less than the predetermined value in Step ST15, the control unit (C) maintains the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) in Step ST14.

If the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) is increased in Step ST15, the target ventilation amount (ventilation amount V1) determined in Step ST3 is increased. As a result, the equivalent ventilation amount Ve of the irradiation unit (60) decreases in Step ST4, and the target output of the irradiation unit (60) decreases in Step ST5. As a result, it is possible to suppress the acceleration of deterioration of the LED (61) due to an excessive increase in the output of the irradiation unit (60). In addition, the power consumption of the LED (61) can be reduced.

The control unit (C) may decrease the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) as ΔT increases in Step ST13, and increase the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) as ΔT decreases.

(5-1B) Variation 1B

In the coordinated control of Variation 1B, the output of the irradiation unit (60) is determined in preference to the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50).

As illustrated in FIG. 7, the control unit (C) identifies the number of persons in the target space (I) in Step ST21, and determines the required ventilation amount Vn in Step ST22. Next, in Step ST23, the control unit (C) determines the target output of the irradiation unit (60). The target output of the irradiation unit (60) is the set output of the irradiation unit (60) determined by the setting by the user or the like.

In Step ST24, the control unit (C) determines the equivalent ventilation amount Ve corresponding to the target output of the irradiation unit (60). The control unit (C) determines the equivalent ventilation amount Ve corresponding to the target capability based on the target output of the irradiation unit (60) and the first data described above.

In Step ST25, the control unit (C) obtains the ventilation amount V1 of the ventilation unit (50), at which the total ventilation amount Vt becomes equal to or greater than the required ventilation amount Vn, based on Expression (2) above. In this example, the control unit (C) obtains the ventilation amount V1 at which the total ventilation amount Vt is equal to the required ventilation amount Vn, and sets this ventilation amount V1 as the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50).

In Step ST26, the control unit (C) controls the ventilation unit (50) and the irradiation unit (60) using the target output of the irradiation unit (60) determined in Step ST23 and the target ventilation amount determined in Step ST25 as control commands. Specifically, the control unit (C) controls the irradiation unit (60) such that the output of the irradiation unit (60) approaches the target output. The control unit (C) controls the ventilation fan (53) of the ventilation unit (50) such that the air volume of the ventilation fan (53) approaches the target ventilation amount.

By the above-described control, the total ventilation amount Vt becomes equal to or greater than the required ventilation amount Vn in the ventilation operation. As a result, the viruses and bacteria in the indoor space (I) can be treated appropriately.

In Step ST23, the control unit (C) may reduce the target output of the irradiation unit (60) if the difference ΔT between the indoor temperature Ti and the outdoor temperature To is smaller than a predetermined value. In this case, the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) increases as the target output decreases. However, since ΔT is not so large, it is possible to reduce the likelihood of an increase in the indoor air-conditioning load. The power consumption of the irradiation unit (60) can also be reduced. The control unit (C) may increase the target output of the irradiation unit (60) when the ΔT is larger than the predetermined value. The control unit (C) may increase the target output of the irradiation unit (60) as the ΔT increases, and decrease the target output of the irradiation unit (60) as the ΔT decreases.

In Step ST23, the control unit (C) may reduce the target output of the irradiation unit (60), specifically the illuminance of the LED (61), as the degree of deterioration of the LED (61) increases. In this case, the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) increases as the target output decreases. By decreasing the illuminance of the LED (61), it is possible to suppress the acceleration of deterioration of the LED (61).

Here, the degree of deterioration of the LED (61) is an index indicating how much the current output of the LED (61) has decreased relative to the output of the LED (61) in an initial state. Specifically, the deterioration degree (%) can be expressed by the following expression, where I1 is the illuminance of the LED (61) in the initial state for a certain control command value, and I2 is the current illuminance of the LED (61) for the same control command value.

Deterioration Degree (%)=(I1−I2)/I1×100

The control unit (C) estimates the degree of deterioration of the LED (61) based on data (data table, correlation formula, or the like) related to a correlation between the cumulative value of the time during which the LED (61) is in the ON state and the degree of deterioration. This data is stored in the storage unit of the control unit (C). The control unit (C) may estimate the degree of deterioration of the LED (61) based on a detection value of an output sensor (84), which will be described in detail later, and a control output value of the LED (61).

(5-1C) Variation 1C

In Variation 1C, the control unit (C) performs control that takes into account the degree of deterioration of the irradiation unit (60) in the coordinated control in Variation 1B. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the air conditioner (10) of Variation 1C includes a deterioration degree estimation unit (83). The deterioration degree estimation unit (83) estimates the degree of deterioration of the LED (61) due to its use.

The deterioration degree estimation unit (83) of this example includes the output sensor (84) and a calculation unit (85) provided in the control unit (C). The output sensor (84) comprises an illuminance sensor or the like that detects the intensity of the ultraviolet ray output from the LED (61). The calculation unit (85) obtains the degree of deterioration of the LED (61) based on the control output value of the LED (61) transmitted from the control unit (C) to the irradiation unit (60) and the detection value of the output sensor (84).

In the coordinated control of Variation 1C, the control unit (C) determines, in Step ST24 of FIG. 7, the equivalent ventilation amount based on the deterioration degree. Specifically, if the degree of deterioration of the LED (61) is high, the actual output of the irradiation unit (60) (specifically, the illuminance of the LED (61)) is low, and air changes per hour (ACH) for sterilization is also low. Thus, the control unit (C) performs correction to decrease the equivalent ventilation amount Ve when the degree of deterioration of the LED (61) becomes high. As a result, the target ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) determined in Step ST25 increases.

As described above, in Variation 1C, the control unit (C) increases the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) as the degree of deterioration of the irradiation unit (60) increases. As a result, it is possible to reduce the likelihood of an increase in the risk of infection in the indoor space (I) due to deterioration of the irradiation unit (60).

As described above, the deterioration degree estimation unit (83) may estimate the degree of deterioration of the LED (61) based on the data related to the correlation between the cumulative value of the time during which the LED (61) is in the ON state and the deterioration degree.

(5-2) Variation 2: Variations of Ventilation Unit and Irradiation Unit

In the air conditioner (10) of the above embodiment, the ventilation unit (50) and the irradiation unit (60) may be configured as follows.

(5-2A) Variation 2A

In Variation 2A, the ventilation fan (53) transfers the outdoor air in the outdoor space (O) to the air passage (43) in the first casing (30a) through the duct (51). In other words, the ventilation fan (53) is an air supply fan that supplies the outdoor air to the indoor space (I).

As illustrated in FIG. 9, the irradiation unit (60) is disposed, in the air passage (43), upstream of the connection port (44) of the duct (51) in the air flow. The connection port (44) is disposed between the irradiation unit (60) and the first heat exchanger (32).

In the ventilation operation, the indoor air in the indoor space (I) flows into the air passage (43) through the inlet (41). The air in the air passage (43) passes through the irradiation unit (60) before flowing through the connection port (44). On the other hand, the outdoor air in the outdoor space (O) flows into the air passage (43) from the connection port (44) through the duct (51). In the air passage (43), the air that has passed through the irradiation unit (60) and the air that has flowed in from the duct (51) are merged together; the air is then supplied to the indoor space (I).

In Variation 2A, the air that has flowed into the connection port (44) from the duct (51) does not pass through the irradiation unit (60); therefore, the ultraviolet ray from the irradiation unit (60) is used only for sterilization of the indoor air. It is thus possible to reduce the likelihood that the actual equivalent ventilation amount of the irradiation unit (60) is less than the equivalent ventilation amount Ve determined.

As illustrated in FIG. 11, the irradiation unit (60) is disposed, in the air passage (43), downstream of the connection port (44) of the duct (51) in the air flow. The connection port (44) is disposed between the irradiation unit (60) and the first heat exchanger (32). The outdoor air in the outdoor space (O) flows into the air passage (43) from the connection port (44) through the duct (51). The outdoor air passes through the irradiation unit (60) and is then supplied to the indoor space (I). This configuration enables the irradiation unit (60) to sterilize the bacteria (germs and mold) contained in the outdoor air.

(5-2B) Variation 2B

In Variation 2B, the ventilation unit (50) is configured to be capable of reversing the direction of the air flowing through the duct (51). The ventilation unit (50) has a ventilation fan (53) that transfers the air in one direction, for example, and a flow path switching mechanism (not shown) that reverses the direction of the air flowing through the duct (51). Alternatively, the ventilation fan (53) may employ a configuration in which the rotation direction of the first motor (53a) is reversible.

The ventilation unit (50) switches between a first operation of discharging the air in the air passage (43) to the outdoor space (O) through the duct (51), and a second operation of supplying the outdoor air in the outdoor space (O) to the air passage (43) through the duct (51).

As illustrated in FIG. 10, the irradiation unit (60) is disposed, in the air passage (43), in parallel with the connection port (44) of the duct (51). The air in the air passage (43) flows through the connection port (44) of the duct (51) and the irradiation unit (60) in parallel. Specifically, the connection port (44) and the irradiation unit (60) are arranged in a direction orthogonal to the air flow.

In Variation 2B, it is possible to reduce the likelihood that the air that has passed through the irradiation unit (60) flows out from the connection port (44) to the outdoor space (O) in the first operation. It is possible to reduce the likelihood that the air that has flowed into the air passage (43) from the connection port (44) flows through the irradiation unit (60) in the second operation. Thus, in Variation 2B, the sterilizing function of the irradiation unit (60) can be sufficiently utilized for the indoor air in the indoor space (I). As a result, it is possible to reduce the likelihood that the actual equivalent ventilation amount of the irradiation unit (60) is less than the equivalent ventilation amount Ve determined.

The present configuration may be applied to the air conditioner (10) in which the ventilation unit (50) performs only the first operation or only the second operation.

(5-3) Variation 3: Example of Total Heat Exchange Ventilation Device

A ventilation device (90) of Variation 3 illustrated in FIG. 12 ventilates the indoor space (I) by simultaneously supplying and discharging air to and from the indoor space (I). The ventilation device (90) performs heat exchange between the air to be supplied to the room and the air to be discharged to the outside of the room. The ventilation device (90) is installed, for example, in the ceiling, and is connected to the duct for transferring the air.

(5-3-1) General Configuration

The ventilation device (90) includes a casing (91) which is a second casing, an air supply fan (92), an air exhaust fan (93), a total heat exchanger (94) which is a second heat exchanger, and the irradiation unit (60). The air supply fan (92) and the air exhaust fan (93) form the ventilation unit (50) for ventilating the indoor space (I).

An indoor suction port (95) and an air supply port (96) are formed in a first sidewall (91a) of the casing (91). An outdoor suction port (97) and an air exhaust port (98) are formed in a second sidewall (91b) of the casing (91). The indoor suction port (95) and the air supply port (96) communicate with the indoor space (I) through respective ducts. The outdoor suction port (97) and the air exhaust port (98) communicate with the outdoor space (O) through respective ducts.

A first partition plate (101) and a second partition plate (102) are provided inside the casing (91). The first partition plate (101), the second partition plate (102), and the total heat exchanger (94) define a first passage (P1), a second passage (P2), a third passage (P3), and a fourth passage (P4) inside the casing (91). The first passage (P1) and the second passage (P2) form an air supply passage (103). The third passage (P3) and the fourth passage (P4) form an air exhaust passage (104). The air supply passage (103) is a passage for supplying, as supply air (SA), the outdoor air (OA) to the indoor space (I). The air exhaust passage (104) is a passage for discharging, as exhaust air (EA), the indoor air (RA) to the outdoor space (O).

The air supply fan (92) is disposed in the air supply passage (103). The air supply fan (92) is disposed in the second passage (P2). The air exhaust fan (93) is disposed in the fourth passage (P4).

The total heat exchanger (94) performs heat exchange between the air in the air supply passage (103) and the air in the air exhaust passage (104). A first heat exchange flow path (94a) communicating with the air supply passage (103) and a second heat exchange flow path (94b) communicating with the air exhaust passage (104) are formed in the total heat exchanger (94). The total heat exchanger (94) exchanges sensible heat and latent heat between the air in the first heat exchange flow path (94a) and the air in the second heat exchange flow path (94b). The second heat exchanger does not have to be the total heat exchanger (94) and may exchange only sensible heat between the two airflows.

A damper (105) is provided for the first partition plate (101), which partitions the third passage (P3) and the second passage (P2). The damper (105) opens and closes a damper opening (106) formed in the first partition plate (101). As illustrated in FIG. 13, when the damper (105) is in an open state, the third passage (P3) and the second passage (P2) communicate with each other through the damper opening (106). The third passage (P3), the damper opening (106), and the second passage (P2) form a circulation passage (107) which sends the indoor air in the indoor space (I) to the indoor space (I).

The irradiation unit (60) is disposed in the air supply passage (103). Specifically, the irradiation unit (60) is disposed in the second passage (P2). In other words, the irradiation unit (60) is disposed in the circulation passage (107). The irradiation unit (60) irradiates the air flowing through the air supply passage (103) or the circulation passage (107) with ultraviolet rays to sterilize the air.

(5-3-2) Ventilation Operation

In the ventilation operation of the ventilation device (90) of Variation 3, the control unit (C) operates the air supply fan (92) and the air exhaust fan (93). The control unit (C) turns on the irradiation unit (60) as appropriate. The control unit (C) brings the damper (105) into a closed state. The air flows into the air supply passage (103) through the outdoor suction port (97). The air in the air supply passage (103) flows through the first heat exchange flow path (94a) of the total heat exchanger (94). The indoor air in the indoor space (I) flows into the air exhaust passage (104) from the indoor suction port (95) through the duct. The air in the air exhaust passage (104) flows through the second heat exchange flow path (94b) of the total heat exchanger (94). The total heat exchanger (94) performs heat exchange between the air in the first heat exchange flow path (94a) and the air in the second heat exchange flow path (94b).

In summer, for example, the temperature of the indoor air in the indoor space (I) being air-conditioned is lower than the temperature of the outdoor air, and the humidity of the indoor air is lower than the humidity of the outdoor air. Thus, in the total heat exchanger (94), the air in the first heat exchange flow path (94a) is cooled and dehumidified. In winter, for example, the temperature of the indoor air in the indoor space (I) being air-conditioned is higher than the temperature of the outdoor air, and the humidity of the indoor air is higher than the humidity of the outdoor air. Thus, in the total heat exchanger (94), the air in the first heat exchange flow path (94a) is heated and humidified.

The air with its temperature and humidity adjusted in the first heat exchange flow path (94a) as described above passes through the irradiation unit (60). The air is sterilized by irradiation with ultraviolet rays from the LED of the irradiation unit (60). The air that has passed through the irradiation unit (60) is supplied to the indoor space (I) through the air supply passage (103), the air supply port (96), and the duct. The air in the second heat exchange flow path (94b) is discharged to the outdoor space (O) through the air exhaust passage (104), the air exhaust port (98), and the duct.

In the ventilation operation, the control unit (C) controls the ventilation unit (50) and the irradiation unit (60) in coordination, similarly to the above-described embodiment and variations. The control unit (C) controls the air volumes of the air supply fan (92) and the air exhaust fan (93) to be equal to each other. That is, the ventilation amount of the ventilation unit (50) is equivalent to the air volume of the air supply fan (92) and the air volume of the air exhaust fan (93).

(5-3-3) Circulation Operation

The ventilation device (90) performs a circulation operation in which the indoor air is sterilized while the air is circulated. In the circulation operation, the control unit (C) operates the air supply fan (92), stops the air exhaust fan (93), turns on the irradiation unit (60), and brings the damper (105) in the open state.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, in the circulation operation, the indoor air in the indoor space (I) flows into the third passage (P3) through the duct and the indoor suction port (95). The air in the third passage (P3) flows into the second passage (P2) through the damper opening (106). The air in the second passage (P2) passes through the irradiation unit (60). The air is sterilized by irradiation with ultraviolet rays from the LED of the irradiation unit (60). The air that has passed through the irradiation unit (60) is supplied to the indoor space (I) through the air supply passage (103), the air supply port (96), and the duct.

As described above, in the ventilation device (90), the irradiation unit (60) can sterilize the air not only in the ventilation operation but also in the circulation operation.

(5-4) Variation 4: Example of Ventilation System Having Air Conditioning Unit

The ventilation device of Variation 4 illustrated in FIG. 14 forms a ventilation system (110). The ventilation system (110) includes the ventilation unit (50) that ventilates the indoor space (I), and an air conditioning unit (120) having the irradiation unit (60). The ventilation unit (50) and the air conditioning unit (120) are separate units. The air conditioning unit (120) conditions the air in the indoor space (I).

The air conditioning unit (120) is a so-called indoor multi-type air conditioning unit having a plurality of indoor units (30). The air conditioning unit (120) has one outdoor unit (20), but may be a so-called outdoor multi-type air conditioning unit having a plurality of outdoor units (20).

Each indoor unit (30) is installed, for example, in the ceiling, and adjusts the temperature of the air in the indoor space (I). Similarly to the above-described embodiment, each indoor unit (30) includes the irradiation unit (60) and the indoor control unit (IC). The irradiation unit (60) irradiates the indoor air flowing inside the indoor unit (30) with ultraviolet rays to sterilize the air.

The outdoor unit (20) is installed outdoors. Similarly to the embodiment, the outdoor unit (20) includes the outdoor control unit (OC) configured to control a device such as the compressor (21). The outdoor control unit (OC) and the indoor control unit (IC) form an air conditioning control unit (AC) configured to control the air conditioning unit (120).

The ventilation unit (50) simultaneously supplies and discharges air to and from the indoor space (I). The ventilation unit (50) may perform only the air supply to supply the outdoor air in the outdoor space (O) to the indoor space (I), or may perform only the air discharge to discharge the indoor air in the indoor space (I) to the outdoor space (O). The ventilation unit (50) includes the ventilation fan (53) for air supply and air discharge, and a ventilation control unit (VC). The ventilation control unit (VC) controls the ventilation fan (53).

The control unit (C) of Variation 4 is configured to be communicable with the air conditioning control unit (AC) and the ventilation control unit (VC) in a wired or wireless manner. The control unit (C) is provided in a server device connected to a network, a centralized management device in a building, or the like. The control unit (C) controls the ventilation unit (50) and the air conditioning unit (120) in coordination, similarly to the above-described embodiment and variations.

In the ventilation system (110) of Variation 4, the control unit (C) may be provided in the ventilation unit (50). In other words, the control unit (C) may be provided integrally with the ventilation control unit (VC). The control unit (C) may be provided in the air conditioning unit (120). In other words, the control unit (C) may be provided integrally with the air conditioning control unit (AC).

(6) Other Embodiments

The above embodiment and variations may have the following configurations.

The control unit (C) may control the irradiation amount of the irradiation unit (60), the time for air to pass through an irradiation region of the LED (61), the volume of air in the irradiation region of the LED (61), the irradiation time of the LED (61), or the like, as the output of the irradiation unit (60).

Here, the irradiation amount of the LED (61) is the product of the illuminance of the LED (61) and the time for air to pass through the irradiation region of the LED (61). The air passage time is the inverse of the wind speed (linear speed) of the air flowing through the irradiation region. The wind speed of the air is a value obtained by dividing the volume of air flowing through the irradiation region by the cross-sectional area of the flow path through which the air flows. For example, when the irradiation amount of the LED (61), the passage time, or the irradiation time increases, or when the air volume decreases, the output of the irradiation unit (60) increases. For example, when the irradiation amount of the LED (61), the passage time, or the irradiation time decreases, or when the air volume increases, the output of the irradiation unit (60) decreases.

The control unit (C) may control the LED (61) that is turned on and off periodically. In this case, the control unit (C) controls the output of the irradiation unit (60) using, as a control value, the ON time in which the LED (61) is in the ON state (light-ON state), the OFF time in which the LED (61) is in an OFF state (light-OFF state), the cycle period for turning the LED (61) on and off periodically, the duty ratio of the LED (61) (ON time relative to the ON/OFF cycle period), or the like.

The control unit (C) may control the output of the irradiation unit (60) by adjusting the circulation volume of air in the circulation type air conditioner. The air conditioner supplies the air that has been sucked from the target space and passed through the irradiation unit (60) to the target space again. When the circulation volume of air increases, the number of times of circulation of the air passing through the irradiation unit (60) increases, and the output of the irradiation unit (60) increases. Conversely, when the circulation volume of air decreases, the number of times of circulation of the air passing through the irradiation unit (60) decreases, and the output of the irradiation unit (60) decreases. Specifically, the circulation volume of air is the air volume of the fan provided in the air conditioner. The air conditioner described herein is not limited to a device that adjusts the temperature and the humidity, but can be an air purifier.

The total ventilation amount Vt calculated by the control unit (C) may be the sum of the equivalent ventilation amount Ve and the ventilation amount V1 of the ventilation unit (50), without using the forced ventilation amount V2.

The control unit (C) may control the ventilation unit (50) and the irradiation unit (60) such that the total ventilation amount Vt becomes a predetermined value larger than the required ventilation amount Vn.

The control unit (C) may estimate the number of persons in the indoor space (I) from a CO₂ concentration in the indoor space (I) detected by a CO₂ sensor, to determine the required ventilation amount Vn.

The control unit (C) may correct the required ventilation amount Vn according to a virus concentration in the indoor space (I) detected by a sensor. The control unit (C) increases the required ventilation amount Vn when the virus concentration is high, and decreases the required ventilation amount when the virus concentration is low.

The ventilation unit (50) may have an adsorption member that adsorbs moisture, and may supply the indoor space (I) with the outdoor air humidified or dehumidified by the adsorption member.

While the embodiments and variations thereof have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and details may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. The elements according to the embodiment, variations thereof, and the other embodiments may be combined and replaced with each other as appropriate.

The expressions of “first,” “second,” and “third” . . . described above are used to distinguish the terms to which these expressions are given, and do not limit the number and order of the terms.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

As can be seen from the foregoing description, the present disclosure is useful for a ventilation device.

EXPLANATION OF REFERENCES

• • 10 Air Conditioner (Ventilation Device)
  • 30a Indoor Casing (First Casing)
  • 32 Indoor Heat Exchanger (First Heat Exchanger)
  • 43 Air Passage
  • 44 Connection Port
  • 50 Ventilation Unit
  • 51 Duct
  • 60 Irradiation Unit
  • 90 Ventilation Device
  • 94 Total Heat Exchanger (Second Heat Exchanger)
  • 103 Air Supply Passage
  • 104 Air Exhaust Passage
  • 107 Circulation Passage
  • 110 Ventilation System (Ventilation Device)
  • 120 Air Conditioning Unit
  • C Control Unit
  • I Indoor Space (Target Space)
  • O Outdoor Space