JPH09112997A - Air conditioner - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To contrive to simplify the wiring process by adopting only one remote controller by reducing the number of signal lines for connecting an outdoor unit to a plurality of indoor units and simplifying the wiring process. SOLUTION: An outdoor unit 41 is individually connected to indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49 via signal lines 51, 53, 55, 57, and a remote controller 61 is connected only to the unit 43 via a signal line 59. Remote controller set information is transmitted to the unit 41 in response to an indoor unit operation command request command or remote controller set request command generated from the information request command means 63 of the unit 41 via the operation deciding means 75 and operation executing means 77b of the unit 43 of a master unit, and the units 41, 43, 45, 47 are so controlled from the information.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention connects one outdoor unit and a plurality of indoor units by a parallel-connected signal line, and transmits remote control information instructed to a specific indoor unit via the outdoor unit. Is transmitted to each indoor unit via each signal line, and the outdoor unit and 1
The present invention relates to an air conditioner that controls the operations of a plurality of indoor units.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art FIG. 12 is an explanatory view for explaining a general structure of a conventional air conditioner. The outdoor unit 1 is provided with a plurality of (two in this example) compressors inside, and each compressor can compress the refrigerant to a high temperature or conversely expand the refrigerant to a low temperature. One compressor circulates and supplies compressed or expanded refrigerant to the indoor units 3 and 5,
The other compressor circulates and supplies the compressed or expanded refrigerant to the indoor units 7 and 9. Each indoor unit 3, 5, 7, 9 heats or cools the room by utilizing the refrigerant circulated and supplied from the corresponding compressor.

On the other hand, each of the indoor units 3, 5, 7 and 9 individually has a remote controller 2 via signal lines 11, 13, 15 and 17, respectively.
1, 23, 25, 27 are connected, and on the other hand, they are connected to the outdoor unit 1 by individual signal lines 31, 33, 35, 37. Each indoor unit 3, 5, 7, 9 is a remote controller 21, 23,
25, 27 based on the information (control information that can be classified into indoor unit information and outdoor unit information) commanded by itself, or the information (especially information about the outdoor unit) the outdoor unit 1 to control the operation of related compressors.

Further, as another conventional air conditioner, for example, an air conditioner disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 61-228246 is known. In this air conditioner, one outdoor unit, a plurality of indoor units, and a plurality of remote controllers are connected to the same signal line, and a main control unit is provided in any of the outdoor unit, the plurality of indoor units, and the plurality of remote controllers. , The other control unit is provided, the control signal is output from the main control unit to the other control unit in a predetermined order, and the control signal is returned from the other control unit, so that the outdoor unit and the plurality of indoor units are To control. That is, when transmitting and receiving control signals between a set of outdoor unit and indoor unit, and between remote controllers, do not transmit and receive control signals between other indoor units and remote controllers, avoid signal interference, and perform sequence in a predetermined order. Control signals are exchanged individually to control the entire system.

[0005]

In the former conventional example, the outdoor unit 1, each indoor unit 3, 5, 7, 9 and each remote controller 2 are provided.
1, 23, 25 and 27 are individually dedicated signal lines 11 and 1
Since the connection is made via 3, 15, 17, 31, 33, 35, and 37, the number of wires is very large and a wiring work mistake is likely to be caused, which causes a malfunction due to the wiring work mistake, or causes an increase in the wiring work cost. There were drawbacks such as. In addition, because of its structure, it is not possible to meet the demand for controlling the outdoor unit 1 and each of the indoor units 3, 5, 7, 9 from the remote control of the indoor unit in a specific indoor, so that the indoor unit in a specific indoor is temporarily assumed. From the remote controller to the outdoor unit 1 and each indoor unit 3, 5, 7, 9
Even if it is set so that it can be controlled, the remote controller 2 is individually set for each indoor unit 3, 5, 7, 9.
Since 1, 23, 25 and 27 are provided, there is a disadvantage in that extra cost is structurally increased.

In the latter conventional example, since the wiring is simplified, it is possible to reduce the wiring work cost, but a structure in which a remote controller is individually provided for each indoor unit is adopted. Therefore, there is a disadvantage in that extra cost is structurally increased.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and provides an air conditioner capable of simplifying the wiring work and reducing the structural cost without using an unnecessary remote controller. The purpose is to

[0008]

According to the first aspect of the present invention,
An outdoor unit equipped with a compressor that compresses or expands a refrigerant to generate a high-temperature gas or a low-temperature gas, and receives the circulating supply of the high-temperature gas or the low-temperature gas generated by the outdoor unit to supply warm air, cold air, or blown air to the room. A plurality of indoor units are provided, and a specific indoor unit among the plurality of indoor units is used as a master unit, and a remote controller for instructing control of operation of the outdoor unit and one to a plurality of indoor units is connected thereto. Along with the air conditioner in which the outdoor unit and each of the indoor units are connected in parallel by a signal line for information transmission, a remote controller transferred from an indoor unit serving as the parent unit to which the remote controller is connected. Information related to various commands is transmitted to the outdoor unit via the corresponding signal line, thereby controlling the outdoor unit and controlling each indoor unit from the information related to commands from the remote controller. And transmitting the information to the indoor units via the corresponding signal lines through the outdoor unit, and controlling the indoor units based on the information for controlling the indoor units. Characterize.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, an outdoor unit equipped with a compressor for compressing or expanding a refrigerant to generate a high temperature gas or a low temperature gas, and a circulating supply of the high temperature gas or the low temperature gas generated by the outdoor unit are received. Comprising a plurality of indoor units for supplying hot air, cold air or blast to the room,
A specific indoor unit among the plurality of indoor units is used as a master unit, and a remote controller for instructing control of operation of the outdoor unit and one to a plurality of indoor units is connected thereto, and the outdoor unit and each of the indoor units are connected. Is connected in parallel with a signal line for information transmission between the indoor unit and the outdoor unit, and the required ID information is added to the information to be transmitted to each indoor unit, and the address of each indoor unit is added. Address setting means for allocating information, information request command means for transmitting a command for requesting information regarding a specific operation command to each indoor unit via each of the signal lines, according to an operation procedure or an operating condition, and each signal. Information recognizing means for recognizing the content of information relating to a specific operation command transmitted from each indoor unit via a line, and the self-comprising device including the compressor based on the content of the information recognized by the information recognizing means. And determines the operation of the operation member,
An operation determining means for determining the content of information relating to a specific operation command transmitted to each indoor unit via each of the signal lines;
An operation executing means for causing the compressor or the like to perform the operation determined by the operation determining means, and transmitting information regarding the determined operation command to a related indoor unit among the indoor units via the corresponding signal line. From each of the indoor units, a transmission means for transmitting to the outdoor unit information related to various operation commands of the outdoor unit and each indoor unit commanded by the remote controller via the corresponding signal line, and from the outdoor unit Recognizing means for recognizing the content of the ID information of each of the outdoor unit and each indoor unit and the information relating to various operation commands transmitted via the corresponding signal line, and its own operation based on the content of the information recognized by the recognizing means. And an operation determining unit that determines the content of information relating to various operation commands of the outdoor unit and each indoor unit, which is transmitted to the outdoor unit via the corresponding signal line. The operation determining means executes the operation determined by the operation determining means, and transmits the information regarding the determined various operation commands to the outdoor unit through the corresponding signal line, and connects the remote controller. Information related to various commands of the remote controller transferred from the indoor unit as the master unit is transmitted to the outdoor unit via the corresponding signal line, thereby controlling the outdoor unit, and from the information related to the command of the remote controller, The information for controlling the indoor unit is recognized and transmitted to each of the indoor units via the corresponding signal line via the outdoor unit, and each of the indoor units is controlled based on the information for controlling the indoor unit. It is characterized by controlling.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, an outdoor unit having a plurality of compressors for compressing or expanding a refrigerant to generate a high temperature gas or a low temperature gas and a circulating supply of the high temperature gas or the low temperature gas generated by the outdoor unit are provided. A plurality of indoor units that receive and supply hot air, cold air, or blown air to the room are provided, and a specific indoor unit of the plurality of indoor units is used as a master unit, and the outdoor unit and one to a plurality of units are provided. An air conditioner in which a remote controller for controlling operation of an indoor unit is connected, and the outdoor unit and each of the indoor units are connected in parallel by a signal line for information transmission, which is for the outdoor unit. Address setting means for assigning required ID information to information transmitted to each indoor unit to allocate the address of each indoor unit, and each of the plurality of compressors based on the information transmitted from each indoor unit. Group setting means for performing group setting for clarifying the connection relationship with each indoor unit, and requesting information regarding a specific operation command to each indoor unit via each of the signal lines in accordance with an operating procedure or an operating condition. Information request command means for transmitting a command to perform, information recognition means for recognizing the content of information relating to a specific operation command transmitted from each indoor unit via each signal line, and information recognized by the information recognition means Based on the contents of the above, the operation of each of the operation members of the self including the plurality of compressors is determined, and the operation determination for determining the content of information regarding a specific operation command transmitted to each indoor unit via each of the signal lines. Means and the compressor or the like to perform the operation determined by the operation determining means, and information related to the determined operation command is related to the indoor unit of the indoor unit. An operation execution unit that transmits the signal to the indoor unit via the corresponding signal line, and relates to various operation commands of the outdoor unit and the indoor units instructed to the indoor units by the remote controller via the corresponding signal line. Transmitting means for transmitting information to the outdoor unit, and recognizing means for recognizing the content of the ID information of the outdoor unit and each indoor unit transmitted from the outdoor unit via the corresponding signal line and the information regarding various operation commands. , Determining its own motion based on the content of the information recognized by the recognition means,
An operation determining unit that determines the content of information related to various operation commands of the outdoor unit and each indoor unit that is transmitted to the outdoor unit through the corresponding signal line, and executes the operation determined by the operation determining unit, Various commands of the remote controller transferred from the indoor unit serving as the parent unit, which is connected to the remote controller, and includes an operation execution unit that transmits information regarding the determined various operation commands to the outdoor unit through the corresponding signal line. Information relating to the indoor unit is transmitted to the outdoor unit via the corresponding signal line, thereby controlling the outdoor unit, and recognizing the information for controlling each indoor unit from the information regarding the command of the remote controller, It transmits to each said indoor unit via each said corresponding signal line via this, and controls each said indoor unit based on the information which controls each said indoor unit.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in each of the indoor units,
It is characterized in that it is provided with a judging means for judging whether or not it is the parent machine, and the judgment result of the judging means can be notified to the outdoor unit via the corresponding signal line.

[0012]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the information about various commands of the remote controller transferred from the indoor unit as the master unit to which the remote controller is connected is transmitted to the outdoor unit through the corresponding signal line, and the outdoor unit is thereby transmitted. In addition to controlling, the information related to the various commands is transmitted to each indoor unit through the corresponding signal line through the outdoor unit, and each indoor unit is controlled based on the information, so the master unit can be controlled by one remote controller. The outdoor unit and one to a plurality of indoor units can be controlled via the one indoor unit as described above. Since the remote controller and the indoor unit need only be connected at one place, the number of signal lines is reduced, the wiring process is simplified, and the number of remote controllers can be reduced.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, when the wiring process between the outdoor unit and each indoor unit is completed, the outdoor unit first sets the address (ID) of each indoor unit by the address setting means and causes each indoor unit to recognize it. When a remote controller is connected to a specific indoor unit of each indoor unit and this is used as a master unit and a predetermined command (for example, a control command for the outdoor unit and each indoor unit) is given to the master unit by remote control operation, the parent unit The machine transmits the contents of this command to the outdoor machine by transmission means. At this time, the outdoor unit recognizes the content of the command by the information recognizing unit, the action determining unit determines an appropriate action (the action of the self and each indoor unit) according to the recognition, and the action executing unit further determines the action. Depending on the decision, it causes the compressor, etc. to perform an appropriate operation for itself, and transmits information on an appropriate operation command to each indoor unit, so that each indoor unit can perform the required operation (remote control operation). The air conditioning operation according to is performed. After that, the outdoor unit requests the information regarding the specific operation command to each indoor unit by the information request command means, obtains various information from each indoor unit, and appropriately controls the outdoor unit and each indoor unit based on this information. To go.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, when the recognition processing of the address (ID) in each indoor unit is completed after the wiring processing between the outdoor unit and each indoor unit is completed, the required information is sent from each indoor unit to the outdoor unit. Is transmitted, and the outdoor unit performs group setting by the group setting means to clarify the connection relationship between each of the plurality of compressors and each indoor unit based on the information, and thereafter, the same as the invention according to claim 2 above. Move to execution of operation and control.

In the invention according to claim 4, since the outdoor unit is notified of the determination result of the determining unit in each indoor unit, the outdoor unit uses the information recognizing unit to establish the relationship between the parent unit and the child unit among all the indoor units. It can be grasped in advance.

[0016]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will be described below with reference to the illustrated embodiments. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an embodiment of the present invention. The outdoor unit 41 and the plurality of indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49 are connected in parallel to the signal line 5
1, 53, 55 and 57 are individually connected, and a specific indoor unit, that is, the indoor unit 43 is connected to the outdoor unit 4 via the signal line 59.
The outdoor unit 41 is connected to the remote controller 61 for instructing the control of the operation of the first and all indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49.
In addition, it functions as a master unit that can control all the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49. Since the remote controller is not connected to the other indoor units 45, 47, 49, the outdoor unit 41 and all the indoor units 43, 45, 47,
It is designed to function as a slave unit that cannot control 49. For example, the command from the remote controller 61 is transferred to the indoor unit 43, which is the master unit, via the signal line 59, is temporarily stored in the storage unit, and is stored at a predetermined timing (for example, the outdoor unit 4).
1 is transmitted to the outdoor unit 41 via the signal line 51 according to the timing of the information request command from the information requesting unit 1, and after the outdoor unit 41 recognizes the content of the command, the information about the command is transmitted to the outdoor unit 41. Via signal lines 51, 53, 5
It is transmitted to each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49 via 5, 57.

In addition to a plurality of compressors, the outdoor unit 41 has various control means such as address setting means 62a, group setting means 62b, information request command means 63, information recognizing means 65, operation determining means 67, and operation executing means. 69
Is provided. The address setting means 62a adds required ID information to, for example, the head of the information transmitted from the outdoor unit 41 to the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49, and thereby adds the required ID information to the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49. It has a function of allocating addresses to each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49 to automatically recognize its own address. The group setting means 62b integrates the master unit setting, group setting information, etc. in the indoor unit operation information transmitted from each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49, and groups of each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49. Has the function of setting. For example, processing is performed such that the indoor units 43 and 45 are connected to one compressor and the indoor units 47 and 49 are set to the other one compressor. Information request command means 63
The indoor units 43, 4 via the signal lines 51, 53, 55, 57 according to a predetermined operation procedure or operating conditions of the outdoor unit 41 and the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49.
It has a function of transmitting a command requesting specific information to 5, 47 and 49.

The command issued by the information request instructing means 63 is, for example, a data request signal (command) for instructing each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49 to start communication and requesting a reply, each indoor unit 43, 45, Indoor unit operation information request command for requesting information on the current operating conditions of 47 and 49, and indoor units 43 and 4 when the setting of the master unit is not confirmed
5, 47, 49 remote control setting request command for requesting information on the setting command of the remote controller 61 or the like, information of setting command of the remote controller 61 to the outdoor unit 41 which is the master unit when the setting of the master unit has been confirmed. Remote control setting request command for requesting that the indoor units 43, 45,
The outdoor unit data request command for confirming the presence / absence of the connection of 47, 49, the value of the difference between various indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49 and the various set values at the time of actual operation, or the various current values. Indoor unit operation command request command that issues a request, operation mode command that specifies an operation mode as a specific command during normal communication (communication after operation start) with each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49, each room Machine 4
As a specific command at the time of normal communication with 3, 45, 47, 49, there is a cooling / heating mismatch command for instructing that cooling / heating does not match.

The information recognition means 65 is the information request command means 6
Each indoor unit 4 returned in response to various commands issued by
Information content of 3, 45, 47, 49, or each indoor unit 4
It has a function of recognizing the contents of various information voluntarily transmitted from the 3, 45, 47, 49 side. As an example, while recognizing the other party from the transmitted information, the request content of the remote controller 61 and, in detail, the operation mode, temperature information, abnormality determination, etc., which will be described later, are recognized.

The operation determining means 67 determines the operation of, for example, a compressor as various operating members inside the outdoor unit 41 on the basis of the recognition contents recognized by the information recognizing means 65, and also to the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49. Determine the content of the information to be transmitted. For example, it may be decided to return the outdoor unit operation information when the indoor unit operation information is received, or the return signal (return of remote control setting information) may be returned when the remote control setting information is received. , It is decided to transmit a signal for instructing total stop of this system to each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49 when a group setting failure is recognized, or each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49.
To determine whether to follow the command by validating the operation mode command from, or to negate the command, or when the cooling / heating does not match, issue the cooling / heating mismatch command to the indoor unit 43 that is the corresponding indoor unit or master unit. It is determined to transmit the data, to stop the operation of the abnormal indoor unit according to the abnormality determination, or to perform the automatic restoration process of the abnormal indoor unit.

The operation executing means 69 causes each compressor to execute the operation determined by the operation determining means 67, and the information determined by the operation determining means 67, that is, the outdoor unit operation information, the return signal, and the total system stop. A signal for instructing the operation, information for executing a decision regarding whether to follow or invalidate the operation mode command, a cooling / heating mismatch command, information for executing processing at abnormal time, and the like, related operation members in the outdoor unit 41, Or related indoor units 43, 4
5, 47, and 49 are executed.

On the other hand, each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49
Have the same configuration, and the transmission means 71a, 71b, 71c, 71d and the recognition means 73a, 7 have the same configuration.
3b, 73c, 73d, motion determining means 75a, 75b,
75c, 75d, and operation executing means 77a, 77b, 7
7c and 77d. Transmission means 71a, 71b,
Each of 71c and 71d is provided with a master unit setting switch that can be operated by the user, and when operated when connecting the remote controller 61, it is possible to notify the outdoor unit 41 that it is the master unit. In addition, transmission means 71a, 71b, 71c, 7
1d functions when the remote controller 61 is connected. When the remote controller 61 is connected, the command of the remote controller 61 is temporarily stored in the internal storage means, and a predetermined timing (for example, an information request from the outdoor unit 41 is requested). Of the remote controller 61 at a timing corresponding to the command of (1) to transmit information to the outdoor unit 41 via the signal line 51. The recognizing means 73a, 73b, 73c, 73d recognize their own address by recognizing the ID information transmitted from the address setting means 62a of the outdoor unit 41, and their own operating conditions detected by their various sensors and the like. Alternatively, the indoor temperature or the like managed by itself is recognized, or the command issued by the information request command means 63 of the outdoor unit 41 (that is, data request signal (command), indoor unit operation information request command, remote controller setting request command, outdoor unit data). Request command, indoor unit operation command request command, operation mode command, cooling / heating mismatch command, etc.).

Operation determining means 75a, 75b, 75c, 7
5d has a function of determining an operation (operation of a fan motor, flap, etc. of its own, and operation content of information communication) according to the recognition content recognized by the recognition means 73a, 73b, 73c, 73d. That is, data request signal (command)
In response to the indoor unit operation information request command, the indoor unit operation information returned to the outdoor unit 41 in response to the indoor unit operation information request command (for example, information indicating the current operation status of the self or Of information about the remote control setting), or the content of information about the remote control setting to be returned to the outdoor unit 41 in response to the remote control setting request command (only the master unit generates this information). Alternatively, it may be determined whether the information is simply transferred, the content of information returned to the outdoor unit 41 in response to the outdoor unit data request command, or the indoor unit returned to the outdoor unit 41 in response to the indoor unit operation command request command. Determines the content of driving information (for example, information that informs the driver's current driving status after carrying out normal driving, or information that informs the driver's driving goal), and sensor output. Or determine the contents of the information to be sent back to the outdoor unit 41 in response or determine the contents of the operation mode command for returning to the outdoor unit 41, the cooling-heating mismatch command in accordance with the equal.

Operation executing means 77a, 77b, 77c, 7
7d is a motion determining means 75a, 75b, 75c, 75d
The fan motor, flap, or the like of its own, to execute an operation according to the content determined by the operation determining means 75a,
Information determined by 75b, 75c, and 75d, such as indoor unit operation information, information about remote control settings, information about indoor unit operation commands, and operation mode commands, is transmitted to the outdoor unit 41.

On the other hand, the remote controller 61 is provided with the indoor units 43, 4
It has a function of setting and instructing information regarding the presence / absence of operation of 5, 47, 49, operation mode type, set wind speed, flap operation, set temperature, alarm, abnormality information and the like. The information once set may be stored in the storage means in the remote controller 61. In that case, the indoor unit may be stored at a predetermined timing (for example, a timing corresponding to an information request command from the outdoor unit 41). 43 to the outdoor unit 41 via the indoor unit 43.

Next, various operations of the air conditioner of this embodiment,
That is, at initial, group setting, normal communication control,
The operation when the operation mode is determined, communication is abnormal, and control is abnormal will be described.

2 and 3 show an outdoor unit 41-indoor units 43, 4
It is a flowchart explaining operation | movement of various function confirmation at the time of initializing between 5,47,49. First, in step 301, an indoor unit operation information request command is transmitted to each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49 via activation of the information request command means 63. Each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 4
On the 9 side, the recognizing means 73a, 73b, 73c, 73d recognizes the indoor unit operation information request command, and more specifically, the motion determining means 75a, 75b, 75c, 75d and the motion executing means 77a, 77b, 77c, 77d. The indoor unit operation information described later will be returned. Next, at step 302, the information recognizing means 65 is used to recognize the information regarding the predetermined wait time from the contents of the indoor unit operation information request command, and the operation determining means 67 is used to set the timer for counting the wait time.
Further, in step 303, it is judged whether or not the indoor unit operation information is returned from each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49 via the information recognition means 65.

The indoor unit operation information includes information indicating that this information is the indoor unit operation information, information on presence / absence of operation, type of operation mode, operation of indoor fan motor and compressor operation, and outdoor unit fan motor. Status, whether or not the anti-freezing operation is performed, whether or not the trial operation is performed, and whether or not the timer operation time is shortened, information about heat exchange temperature information, information about the difference between room temperature and set temperature, and the main unit It includes information about the presence or absence of setting, group setting status, a capability code indicating the capability of the indoor unit, and information about the model of the indoor unit.

When it is determined in step 303 that the indoor unit operation information is not returned, the process proceeds to step 304,
It is determined whether the wait time has arrived. If it is determined that the wait time has come, the process is terminated, but if it is determined that the wait time has not come, the process returns to step 303. If it is determined in step 303 that the indoor unit operation information has been returned, step 3
05, the information recognizing means 65 recognizes the indoor unit that has returned the indoor unit operating information from the ID information in the indoor unit operating information, and proceeds to step 306, the information recognizing means 6
5, the content of the indoor unit operation information at the time of reply is decoded and recognized, and the process proceeds to step 307, and the operation determining unit 67 and the operation executing unit 69 return the outdoor unit operation information to the indoor unit to which the indoor unit operation information is returned. To do.

Next, at step 308, it is judged whether the indoor unit operation information has been returned from all the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49 via the operation determining means 67. When it is determined that the indoor unit operation information has not been returned from all the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49, the process returns to step 303, but all the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49.
When it is determined that the indoor unit operation information has been returned from step S309, the process proceeds to step 309 shown in FIG. 3, and the information request command means 63 instructs the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49 (in this case, the master unit Is not set, each indoor unit 4
Remote control setting request command is transmitted. Each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 4
On the 9 side, the recognition means 73a, 73b, 73c, 73d recognizes the remote control setting request command, and the operation determining means 75a, 75b, 75c, 75d and the operation executing means 77a, 77b, 77c, 77d will be described in detail later. The remote control setting information will be returned. Next, in step 310, a timer for counting a predetermined wait time is set, and in step 3
11, the information recognition means 65 determines whether or not the remote control setting information has been returned.

The remote control setting information is information indicating that this information is information relating to remote control setting information, whether or not there is operation, the type of operation mode, whether or not automatic cooling / heating is set, wind speed setting, whether or not remote operation is performed, and timer operation information. Information regarding the presence or absence of time reduction, presence or absence of automatic flap setting, information regarding the set temperature, flap type, 4-way flap status,
It is composed of information regarding whether or not there is a cooling / heating mismatch, whether or not there is an alarm, the address of the indoor unit to be controlled, and information regarding the details of the abnormality when the corresponding indoor unit has an abnormality.

When it is determined in step 311 that the remote controller setting information is not returned by the information recognizing means 65, the process proceeds to step 312, and it is determined whether or not the wait time has come. If it is determined that the wait time has come, the process is ended, but if it is determined that the wait time has not come, the process returns to step 311. Then, in step 313, the indoor unit that has returned the remote controller setting information is recognized from the ID information in the remote controller setting information through the information recognition means 65, and step 31
4, the information recognition means 65 decodes and recognizes the content of the remote control setting information at the time of reply, and further, step 315
Then, the operation determining means 67 and the operation executing means 69 send a return signal to the indoor unit which has returned the remote controller setting information. In this case, the content of the return signal is the same as the content of the transmitted remote control setting information.

Next, at step 316, all the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 4 are activated through activation of the operation determining means 67.
It is determined whether or not the remote control setting information is returned from 9. In step 316, all the indoor units 43, 45, 47,
If it is determined that the remote controller setting information is not returned from 49, the process returns to step 311, but all the indoor units 43,
When it is determined that the remote controller setting information is returned from 45, 47, 49, the process proceeds to step 317, and it is determined whether or not this initial process is completed. If it is determined that the process is not finished here, the process returns to step 301, but if it is determined that the process is finished, the process ends.

FIG. 4 shows an outdoor unit 41-indoor units 43, 45, 4
It is a flow chart explaining the operation of connection confirmation at the time of initializing between 7 and 49. First, in step 601, it is determined whether or not the power supply has been reset. If it is determined that the power has been reset, step 60
2, the outdoor unit data request command is transmitted to each of the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49 through activation of the information request command means 63 of the outdoor unit 41. Indoor units 43, 45, 47, 4
On the 9 side, the recognition means 73a, 73b, 73c, 73d recognize the content of the outdoor unit data request command, and the operation determination means 75a, 75b, 75c, 75d and the operation execution means 77a, 77b, 77c, 77d described above. The indoor unit operation information or the simple reply information is returned. Next, in step 603, a timer for recognizing a predetermined wait time (for example, 3 minutes) and counting the wait time is set through the operation determining means 67, and further in step 604, each timer is detected through the information recognizing means 65. Indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49
It is determined whether or not the reply information is returned from.

If it is determined in step 604 that the reply information is not returned from the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49 by the information recognition means 65, the process proceeds to step 605.
It is determined whether the wait time has arrived. If it is determined that the wait time has arrived, the process is considered to have no connection, and if it is determined that the wait time has not arrived, the process returns to step 604. If it is determined in step 604 that the reply information is returned,
In step 606, the information recognizing means 65 recognizes the reply destination of the reply information, and in step 607, the information recognizing means 65 recognizes the content of the reply information returned this time. Indoor unit 4
It is determined whether or not the reply information is returned from 3,45,47,49. Here, all indoor units 43, 45, 47, 4
If it is determined that the reply information has been returned from No. 9, the process ends, but if it is determined that the reply information has not been returned from all the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49, the process returns to step 604.

FIG. 5 shows the outdoor unit 41-indoor units 43, 45, 4
It is a flow chart explaining operation at the time of group setting between 7 and 49. The group setting means 62b of the outdoor unit 41 executes all the processing of this flowchart.
First, in step 701, a timer is set (for example, 5 minutes). Then, in step 702, each indoor unit 43, 4
The indoor unit operation information already obtained from 5, 47, 49 is sequentially taken out, and the contents of the indoor unit operation information corresponding to the current order are recognized. Next, at step 703, from the contents of the indoor unit operation information, that is, the information about the master unit setting and the group setting, whether the indoor unit related to this process is the master unit or the slave unit, and what number unit in the group setting is. Recognize. Next, at step 704, it is determined whether or not there is a contradiction between the master unit setting and the group setting.

If it is determined in step 704 that there is a contradiction between the master unit setting and the group setting of the corresponding indoor unit,
In step 705, it is determined whether the wait time has arrived. If it is determined that the wait time has come, the process proceeds to step 706, and a group setting failure signal is transmitted to each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49 or to the corresponding indoor unit to completely stop the system. Then, the processing is ended, but if it is determined that the wait time has not come, the process returns to step 702. When it is determined in step 704 that there is no contradiction in the recognition of the master unit setting and the group setting of the corresponding indoor unit, the process proceeds to step 707, the process of the master unit setting and the group setting is performed, that is, the outdoor unit 41 is specified. The connection relationship with the compressor is recognized, and the process proceeds to step 708 to determine whether or not all group settings have been completed. If it is determined that all group settings have been completed, the process ends, but if it is determined that all group settings have not been completed, the process returns to step 702.

In the group setting process, if the remote controller 61 is not connected even though the master unit indoor unit 43 sets the master unit setting switch to the master unit side, the indoor unit 43 is not connected.
When the remote control communication abnormality is determined on the side, the outdoor unit 41 is notified of the poor reception of the indoor unit communication. In addition, the indoor units 43, 4
Even if the operation start is received before the group setting ends, the outdoor units 4 and 5 are not operated until the group setting ends.
No operation start command is issued to 1.

On the other hand, regarding the setting of the master unit, each indoor unit 4
3, 45, 47, 49 are provided with, for example, a switch (not shown) as a determination means for determining whether the self device is the master device or the slave device.
If the switch 9 is operated when connecting to any one of the predetermined connection parts (not shown) of the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49, the predetermined information obtained by, for example, turning the switch ON
It becomes possible to transmit the D information and the information notifying that the sender of the information is the master unit to the outdoor unit 41. However, the predetermined information obtained by turning on the switch is stored in the storage means of the corresponding indoor unit, and when, for example, a remote controller setting request command is received from the outdoor unit 41, information on various setting commands of the remote controller 61 is received. With outdoor unit 41
Is desirable and practical.

On the other hand, with respect to the address setting of each indoor unit, the address setting means 62a sets the addresses in ascending order in advance to the respective communication ports of the outdoor unit 41, and sets the respective signal lines 51, 53. , 55, 57 after completion of connection to the communication port concerned, address setting means 62a
By activating, for example, the information of the address intended for the first is added as the required ID information to the beginning of the information transmitted to the first communication port (for example, the signal line 51 is connected), and the second The information of the address intended for the second is added as required ID information to the beginning of the information transmitted to the second communication port (for example, the signal line 53 is connected), and the third communication port (for example, the signal line) is added. 55 is connected)
The information of the address intended for the third is added as the required ID information to the beginning of the information transmitted to the first, and the information transmitted to the fourth communication port (for example, the signal line 57 is connected) is added to the beginning of the information. Information on the fourth intended address is added as required ID information. The above is an example of the address setting and is not limited to the above method.

6 and 7 show the outdoor unit 41-indoor units 43, 4
Normal communication control between 5, 47 and 49 (control after operation start)
It is a flow chart explaining operation at the time. First, in step 801, a timer for counting a predetermined time (1.5 seconds) is set via the operation executing means 69. Next, in step 802, an indoor unit operation information request command is transmitted to each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49 via the information request command means 63. Each of the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49 that has received the indoor unit operation information request command recognizes the indoor unit 43.
3a, 73b, 73c, 73d recognize the content of the command, and the operation determining means 75a, 75b, 75
It is determined that the indoor unit operation information is returned by c and 75d, and further the operation executing means 77a, 77b, 77c and 77.
The indoor unit operation information is actually returned to the outdoor unit 41 by d. Next, at step 803, it is determined whether the indoor unit operation information is returned from each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49 via the information recognition means 65. Step 80
When it is determined that the indoor unit operation information is returned in step 3, the process proceeds to step 804, and each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 4
Transmitting outdoor unit operation information to 9, and step 805
Then, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (1.5 seconds) has elapsed.

If it is determined in step 805 that the predetermined time (1.5 seconds) has elapsed, step 80 shown in FIG.
6 and each indoor unit 4 through the information request command means 63.
A remote control setting request command is transmitted to 3, 45, 47, 49. Next, at step 807, a timer for counting a predetermined time (1.5 seconds) is set via the operation executing means 69. Then, in step 808, the information recognition means 6
5, it is determined whether or not the reply information from each of the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49 for the previous remote controller setting request command has been returned. The indoor unit 43, which is the parent device, uses the remote control setting information as the response information, and uses the indoor units 45, 4 that are the child devices
7, 49 use the received remote control setting request command itself as the response information. When it is determined in step 808 that the reply information is returned, the process proceeds to step 809, and the information recognition means 65 recognizes the reply destination of the remote control setting information and the reply destination of the command from the reply information. Thereby, the outdoor unit 41 can grasp the relationship between the master unit and the slave unit. Next, in step 810, a return signal (the same information as the remote control setting information) is transmitted to the indoor unit 43, which is the parent device, via the operation determining unit 67 and the operation executing unit 69. The recognizing means 73a of the indoor unit 43 which has received the return signal can recognize that the remote control setting is performed without error by recognizing the return signal. Next, in step 811, the operation according to the remote control setting is determined through the operation determining means 67. For example, the contents of control relating to the operation mode, wind speed setting, temperature adjustment, flap control, automatic cooling / heating, etc. are determined. Next, in step 812, the command information regarding the items determined in step 811 is sent to each of the indoor units 43, 45, 4 via the operation executing means 69.
7 or 49, or to the indoor unit related to the remote controller setting command, and at step 813, a predetermined time (1.5
Seconds) has passed, it is determined whether a predetermined time (1.5 seconds)
If it is determined that has passed, the process returns to step 801. still,
Each indoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49 is provided with a confirmation unit (parent unit setting switch) for confirming whether or not the unit itself is the parent unit, and the information of the confirmation unit is provided to the outdoor unit 4 at the time of initial or the like.
If it is configured to be transmitted to 1, it is possible to simplify or eliminate the processing of step 810.

FIG. 8 shows an outdoor unit 41-indoor units 43, 45, 4
It is a flow chart explaining operation concerning recognition of an operation mode at the time of normal communication control between 7 and 49 (control after operation start). First, in step 1201, the indoor unit operation information is received, and the contents of the operation mode is recognized from the destination of the information and the information through activation of the information recognition means 65. Then, in step 1202, the information recognition means 6
The system of the operation mode, that is, the compressor having a connection relationship with the operation mode transmission destination is recognized from the group setting in the indoor unit operation information via 5. For example, when connecting one room or two rooms or four rooms with the remote controller 61 to control each room,
These are arranged in the same system (in this embodiment, the outdoor unit 41 has two
Since it is equipped with two compressors, it can be set so that they are handled as one compressor in common), two systems (two compressors are handled separately), or the remote controller 61 has, for example, three rooms. If you want to control each of them by connecting to
It is conceivable to set the remaining one room to determine the operation mode only when the room side is stopped.

Next, at step 1203, the operation mode is stored in the storage means through the information recognition means 65.
Next, at step 1204, it is determined whether or not the operation mode has been received for the second time via the information recognition means 65. If it is determined in step 1204 that the operation mode has not been received for the second time, the process returns to step 1201.
When it is determined that the operation mode has been received for the second time, the process proceeds to step 1205, the counter for counting the number of times the operation mode is received for the same indoor unit is cleared, and the process proceeds to step 1206 to determine the current operation mode. It is determined whether it is the same as the previous operation mode. Here, if it is determined that the current operating mode is not the same as the previous operating mode, the process returns to step 1201, but if it is determined that the current operating mode is the same as the previous operating mode, step 1207 is performed. Then, the operation determining means 67 and the operation executing means 69 perform the processing for validating the current operation mode, that is, the control of the compressor or the like related to the outdoor unit 41 according to the operation mode is executed, and the operation proceeds to step 1208. The indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49 related by the determining unit 67 and the action executing unit 69 according to the operation mode.
Related indoor units 43, 4 by creating operation mode commands for executing control of fan motors, flaps, etc.
The call is sent to 5, 47, 49 and the process returns to step 1201.

That is, according to this control, when the effective operation mode is cooling, the outdoor unit 41 communicates with the corresponding indoor unit system to transmit to the related indoor unit of the corresponding indoor unit system (the relevant operating mode). When the indoor unit operation command) is cooled and the effective operation mode is heating, the outdoor unit 41 communicates with the corresponding indoor unit system and transmits to the related indoor unit of the corresponding indoor unit system (the relevant indoor mode). Turn the machine's operation command) to heating. However, when the operation of the three rooms is controlled by the remote controller 61, when the operation mode of the remaining one room (one compressor spans two systems) is against the command, the indoor unit related to the remaining one room is operated. On the other hand, a cooling / heating mismatch command will be transmitted.

FIG. 9 shows an outdoor unit 41-indoor units 43, 45, 4
It is a flow chart explaining operation at the time of abnormal communication between 7 and 49. First, the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49
After receiving the information transmitted from the indoor unit, that is, the indoor unit operation information, the indoor unit operation command information, the remote controller setting information, the operation mode command, etc., in step 1301, the parity abnormality and the sum abnormality of the information are transmitted through the information recognition means 65. Is checked, and it is determined in step 1302 whether or not there is an abnormality. If it is determined in step 1302 that there is no abnormality, the process returns to step 1301, but if it is determined that there is an abnormality, the process proceeds to step 1303, the number of abnormalities is counted, and the process proceeds to step 1304.
Based on 5, it is determined whether or not the number of abnormalities is 3. If it is determined in step 1304 that the number of abnormalities is less than 3, the process returns to step 1301, but if it is determined that the number of abnormalities is 3, the process proceeds to step 1305 and the operation determining means 67 determines the abnormality. After performing the processing, the process further proceeds to step 1306, and the operation determining unit 67 and the operation executing unit 69 issue an abnormal stop signal to stop the operation of the indoor unit for which the abnormality is determined, and stop the operation of the indoor unit. However, if the information determined to be abnormal is the remote controller setting information, an abnormal stop signal is issued to each of the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49 to completely stop the present system.

Then, in step 1307, a timer is set (for example, a wait time of 3 minutes) via the operation determining means 67, and in step 1308, the information recognizing means 65.
It is determined whether the wait time has arrived via. If it is determined that the wait time has not come, the process returns to step 1307, but if it is determined that the wait time has arrived, the process proceeds to step 1309 and the indoor unit 43 abnormally stopped by the operation executing means 69. , 45, 47,
An automatic return signal is issued to 49 to perform automatic return processing, and the process returns to step 1301.

10 and 11 show the outdoor unit 41-indoor unit 4
It is a flowchart explaining the operation of the abnormality determination (communication abnormality, abnormality other than fuel shortage) during normal communication among 3, 45, 47, and 49. First, the indoor units 43, 45, 47,
After receiving the information transmitted from 49, that is, the indoor unit operation information, the indoor unit operation command information, the remote controller setting information, the operation mode command, etc., from the information received through the information recognition means 65 in step 1401. It is determined whether there is any abnormal information. This determination is repeated until there is abnormal information. When it is determined in step 1401 that there is abnormality information, the process proceeds to step 1402,
The information recognizing unit 65 recognizes the content of the abnormality information, the operation determining unit 67 determines to abnormally stop the member related to the abnormality of the outdoor unit 41 or the corresponding indoor unit, and the operation executing unit 69 issues a command regarding the abnormal stop. To the outdoor unit 41 or the corresponding indoor unit. As a result, the driving of the member related to the abnormality of the outdoor unit 41 or the corresponding indoor unit is stopped.

Next, in step 1403, the timer is set (for example, 3 minutes) via the operation determining means 67 and the operation executing means 69, and in step 1404, the timer setting time, that is, the wait time arrives via the information recognizing means 65. It is determined whether or not. If it is determined in step 1404 that the wait time has arrived, step 140
The process proceeds to step 5 to execute the automatic return process of the corresponding member via the operation executing means 69, that is, the automatic return process of transmitting a drive restart signal instructing the drive restart of the corresponding member. Next, in step 1406, a timer is set via the action determining means 67 and the action executing means 69 (for example, 15 minutes).
Then, in step 1407, it is determined whether the abnormality is determined again via the information recognition means 65. If it is determined in step 1407 that the abnormality has not been determined again, the process proceeds to step 1408 to determine whether or not the wait time set in step 1406 has arrived. Here, the wait time has not arrived. If it is determined that the wait time has arrived, the process returns to step 1401. On the other hand, if it is determined in step 1407 that the abnormality has been determined again, the process proceeds to step 1409 shown in FIG. 11, and the outdoor unit 41 or the indoor unit 43 as the parent unit is operated via the operation determining unit 67 and the operation executing unit 69. And transmitting the abnormality occurrence information to the indoor unit related to the abnormality occurrence, and proceeding to step 1410, the outdoor unit 41 related to the abnormality occurrence or the indoor unit related to the abnormality occurrence via the operation determining unit 67 and the operation executing unit 69. A drive stop command for instructing a drive stop is transmitted to stop the driving of the outdoor unit 41 related to the occurrence of the abnormality or the indoor unit related to the occurrence of the abnormality.

Next, in step 1412, the timer is set (for example, 15 minutes) via the operation determining means 67 and the operation executing means 69, and in step 1413, it is determined whether or not the abnormality is determined again via the information recognizing means 65. judge. If it is determined in step 1413 that the abnormality has not been determined again, the process proceeds to step 1414, it is determined whether or not the wait time (15 minutes) has arrived, and it is determined here that the wait time has not arrived. If it is determined that the wait time has come, the process proceeds to step 1415 to clear the abnormality confirmation, and then the process returns to step 1401. Step 1
If it is determined in 413 that the abnormality is determined again, the process proceeds to step 1416, waits for the power reset or the operation command, and when the power reset or the operation command is issued, the process proceeds to step 1417 to relate to the occurrence of the error. After returning the indoor unit to the initial state, the process returns to step 1401.

In the embodiment of the present invention, the outdoor unit 41 and the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49 are connected to the signal lines 51, 53 ,.
55 and 57 are individually connected, and only the indoor unit 43 is connected to the signal line 5
The remote controller 61 is connected via the wiring method 9, and the remote controller setting information is transmitted from the indoor unit 43 to the outdoor unit 41 in response to the indoor unit operation command request command of the outdoor unit 41 or the remote controller setting request command. Since the outdoor unit 41 and each of the indoor units 43, 45, 47, 49 are configured to be controlled based on this information, the wiring process can be simplified and the number of remote controllers can be reduced. It is possible to reduce the structural cost.

[0052]

The wiring processing can be simplified by reducing the number of signal lines connecting the outdoor unit and a plurality of indoor units, and only one remote controller is required. As a result, the more the indoor units are used, the more the wiring work cost and the structural cost can be reduced.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a communication operation in a preceding stage at the time of initializing an outdoor unit and an indoor unit.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a communication operation in a subsequent stage at the time of initializing the outdoor unit and the indoor unit.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of confirming a connection at the time of initializing the outdoor unit and the indoor unit.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation when setting a group between an outdoor unit and an indoor unit.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a former stage during normal communication control between the outdoor unit and the indoor unit.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a subsequent stage during normal communication control between the outdoor unit and the indoor unit.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an operation related to recognition of an operation mode during normal communication control between the outdoor unit and the indoor unit.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an operation during abnormal communication between an outdoor unit and an indoor unit.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a previous stage of abnormality determination during normal communication between an outdoor unit and an indoor unit.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a latter stage of abnormality determination during normal communication between the outdoor unit and the indoor unit.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration of a conventional air conditioner.

[Explanation of symbols]

 41 outdoor unit 43, 45, 47, 49 indoor unit 51, 53, 55, 57, 59 signal line 61 remote controller 62a address setting unit 62b group setting unit 63 information request command unit 65 information recognizing unit 67 operation determining unit 69 operation executing unit 71a-71d Transmission means 73a-73d Recognition means 75a-75d Operation determination means 77a-77d Operation execution means

Claims (4)

[Claims] 1. An outdoor unit comprising a compressor for compressing or expanding a refrigerant to generate a hot gas or a cold gas,
A plurality of indoor units for supplying hot air, cold air, or blown air into the room by receiving the circulating supply of high-temperature gas or low-temperature gas generated by the outdoor unit, wherein a specific indoor unit among the plurality of indoor units is provided. As a master unit, a remote controller for instructing control of operation of the outdoor unit and one to a plurality of indoor units is connected thereto, and the outdoor unit and each indoor unit are connected in parallel with a signal line for information transmission. An air conditioner connected to the remote controller, which transmits information regarding various commands of the remote controller transferred from the indoor unit as the master unit to which the remote controller is connected to the outdoor unit through the corresponding signal line, Controls the outdoor unit, recognizes information for controlling each indoor unit from the information related to the command of the remote controller, and transmits the information to each indoor unit via the corresponding signal line via the outdoor unit. And an air conditioner that controls each of the indoor units based on the information that controls each of the indoor units. 2. An outdoor unit comprising a compressor that compresses or expands a refrigerant to generate a hot gas or a cold gas,
A plurality of indoor units for supplying hot air, cold air, or blown air into the room by receiving the circulating supply of high-temperature gas or low-temperature gas generated by the outdoor unit, wherein a specific indoor unit among the plurality of indoor units is provided. As a master unit, a remote controller for instructing control of operation of the outdoor unit and one to a plurality of indoor units is connected thereto, and the outdoor unit and each indoor unit are connected in parallel with a signal line for information transmission. An air conditioner connected to the indoor unit, the address setting unit for allocating the indoor unit address by adding required ID information to the information transmitted to each indoor unit for the outdoor unit; Accordingly, information request command means for transmitting a command requesting information regarding a specific operation command to each indoor unit via each signal line, and transmitted from each indoor unit via each signal line. specific Information recognizing means for recognizing the content of information relating to the operation command of, and determining the operation of its own various operating members including the compressor based on the content of the information recognized by the information recognizing means, and through each of the signal lines. The operation determining means for determining the content of the information regarding the specific operation command transmitted to each of the indoor units, and causing the compressor or the like to perform the operation determined by the operation determining means, and information regarding the determined operation command An operation executing means for transmitting to a related indoor unit of the indoor units via the corresponding signal line, an outdoor unit for instructing each of the indoor units via the corresponding signal line of the remote controller; Transmission means for transmitting information regarding various operation commands of each indoor unit to the outdoor unit, and an outdoor unit transmitted from the outdoor unit via the corresponding signal line And recognition means for recognizing the ID information of each indoor unit and the content of information relating to various operation commands, and determining its own operation based on the content of the information recognized by the recognizing means, and for transmitting the corresponding signal to the outdoor unit. Operation determining means for determining the content of information relating to various operation commands of the outdoor unit and each indoor unit transmitted via the line, and executing the operation determined by the operation determining means, and information regarding the various operation commands determined To the outdoor unit via the corresponding signal line, and information about various commands of the remote controller transferred from the indoor unit serving as the parent unit to which the remote controller is connected. The information is transmitted to the outdoor unit via the control unit, and thereby the outdoor unit is controlled, and the information for controlling each indoor unit is recognized from the information on the command from the remote controller. And transmitting the information to the indoor units via the corresponding signal lines via the outdoor units, and controlling the indoor units based on the information for controlling the indoor units. Air conditioner. 3. An outdoor unit comprising a plurality of compressors for compressing or expanding a refrigerant to generate a high temperature gas or a low temperature gas, and a hot air supplied indoors by receiving a circulating supply of the high temperature gas or the low temperature gas generated by the outdoor unit. Or a plurality of indoor units for supplying cold air or blast, and a specific indoor unit among the plurality of indoor units is used as a master unit to control the operation of the outdoor unit and one to a plurality of indoor units. An air conditioner in which a remote controller for instructing is connected, and the outdoor unit and each indoor unit are connected in parallel by a signal line for information transmission, with respect to the outdoor unit, each indoor unit Address setting means for allocating each indoor unit address by adding required ID information to the information to be transmitted, and a connection between each of the plurality of compressors and each indoor unit based on the information transmitted from each indoor unit. Group setting means for performing group setting to clarify the connection relationship, and information for transmitting a command requesting information regarding a specific operation command to each indoor unit via each of the signal lines in accordance with an operation procedure or an operation status. Request command means, information recognition means for recognizing the content of information relating to a specific operation command transmitted from each indoor unit via each of the signal lines, and based on the content of information recognized by the information recognition means, Operation determining means for determining the operation of its own operation members including a plurality of compressors, and for determining the content of information regarding a specific operation command transmitted to each indoor unit via each signal line, and the operation determination While causing the compressor or the like to perform the operation determined by the means, the information regarding the determined operation command is corresponded to the related indoor unit of the indoor units. And an operation execution unit that transmits the signal via a signal line, wherein the indoor unit is provided with information related to various operation commands of the outdoor unit and the indoor units instructed by the remote controller via the corresponding signal line. And a recognition means for recognizing the content of the ID information of the outdoor unit and each indoor unit transmitted from the outdoor unit via the corresponding signal line and the content of information regarding various operation commands, and the recognizing unit. An operation determining unit that determines its own operation based on the content of the recognized information and determines the content of information regarding various operation commands of the outdoor unit and each indoor unit that is transmitted to the outdoor unit through the corresponding signal line. And an operation operation for executing the operation determined by the operation determination means and transmitting information regarding the determined various operation commands to the outdoor unit via the corresponding signal line. Means for transmitting the information related to various commands of the remote controller transferred from the indoor unit as the parent unit to which the remote controller is connected, to the outdoor unit via the corresponding signal line, thereby controlling the outdoor unit. At the same time, the information for controlling each indoor unit is recognized from the information related to the command of the remote controller, and the information is transmitted to each indoor unit through the corresponding signal line through the outdoor unit, and each indoor unit is transmitted. An air conditioner that controls each of the indoor units based on control information. 4. Each of the indoor units is provided with a judging unit for judging whether or not it is the master unit, and the judgment result of the judging unit can be notified to the outdoor unit via the corresponding signal line. The method according to claim 1 or 2 or 3 is characterized in that
The air conditioner as described.