JP7392556B2 - air conditioning controller - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an air conditioning controller.

Some air conditioners are equipped with an air conditioning controller that allows a user to perform operations such as changing a set temperature, and an air conditioner that performs air conditioning based on instructions from the air conditioning controller. In this type of air conditioner, the air conditioning controller contains information related to the air conditioning, such as control information such as operation mode (cooling, heating, dehumidification, ventilation), air conditioning adjustment parameters (set temperature, set air volume), room temperature, humidity, etc. A display unit that displays environmental information such as the following is often provided (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP2010-159922

Here, for example, configuring the above various information to remain displayed even while waiting for operation of the air conditioning controller (standby) improves the user's convenience when checking the air conditioning status, etc. It is advantageous. However, if the user's convenience is improved by continuing to display information even during standby as described above, the power consumption of the air conditioner will tend to increase, which may hinder the realization of energy savings for the air conditioner. It is assumed that As described above, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of the air conditioning controller in order to achieve both reduction in power consumption and improvement in convenience in the air conditioner.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and its main purpose is to suitably achieve both reduction in power consumption and improvement in convenience in an air conditioner.

Below, means for solving the above problems will be described.

Means 1. An air conditioning controller (air conditioning controller 12) that can control an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) based on a user's operation,
a display unit (display 53) that uses electronic paper as a display medium and is capable of displaying information regarding air conditioning as an image;
a display control unit (CPU 51) that performs display control of the display unit,
The image rewriting mode in which the image on the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit includes a first rewriting mode (first display control mode), and an image rewriting mode in which an image before rewriting than in the first rewriting mode remains as an afterimage. A second rewriting mode (second display control mode) that is difficult to use is provided.
The display control section includes:
an operation determination unit (a function for executing processes such as steps S202 and S403 in the CPU 51) for determining whether a predetermined operation (for example, a menu switching operation, a temperature adjustment operation, an air volume adjustment operation) has been performed by the user;
a first rewriting means (CPU 51 (a function of executing steps S203, S207, S404, S406, etc.);
Automatic rewriting condition determining means (processing steps S208, S303, S309, etc. in the CPU 51) that determines whether predetermined automatic rewriting conditions (for example, automatic return conditions to the main menu, room temperature change, air volume change) are satisfied. function) and
rewriting the image displayed on the display unit with another image in the second rewriting mode when the automatic rewriting condition determining means determines that the predetermined automatic rewriting condition is satisfied; 2 rewriting means (a function for executing steps S209, S211, S304, S306, S310, S312, etc. in the CPU 51).

Air conditioners often continue to operate under the conditions set at the start of operation, and the period during which the air conditioning controller is operated is extremely short compared to the period during which it is waiting for operation. Therefore, if the display section of the air conditioning controller is configured with electronic paper as described above, although a certain amount of power will be required to rewrite the image with operation, it will be easier to maintain the air conditioning information displayed. Power consumption can be extremely reduced. For example, compared to the case where the display section is configured with a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, a plasma display, etc., it is possible to suitably suppress an increase in power consumption due to improved convenience.

The various information (images) displayed on the display can be rewritten not only by user operations but also by changes in control status (airflow) or environment (room temperature and humidity), which improves the ability to provide information to users. This is preferable in terms of suitability. Here, according to the configuration shown in the above-mentioned means 1, the first rewriting mode that emphasizes rewriting speed and the second rewriting mode that emphasizes appearance are selectively used as the image rewriting mode depending on the rewriting trigger. Specifically, when a predetermined operation is performed by the user, the image is rewritten in the first rewrite mode, and when predetermined automatic rewrite conditions such as changes in room temperature or air volume are satisfied, the image is rewritten in the first rewrite mode. The image is rewritten in the second rewriting mode. When the air conditioning controller is operated by the user, the image is quickly rewritten, which can shorten the time it takes to wait for the operation, and when predetermined automatic rewriting conditions are met, it takes a certain amount of time to rewrite the image. The user's convenience can be suitably improved by preparing for later information confirmation → operation by rewriting the information neatly.

Note that it is preferable to improve convenience while suppressing an increase in power consumption due to the increase in convenience. In other words, even if the convenience is further improved by making the air conditioning controller portable with a built-in power supply, it is possible to avoid increasing the frequency of replacing and charging the air conditioning controller's battery, thereby achieving the effect of improving convenience. This can be achieved even more favorably.

Means 2. The second rewrite mode is an image rewrite in which the image displayed on the display section is rewritten to the next image through a predetermined refresh display (inverted display, fully bright display, fully dark display) for removing afterimages. mode,
The air conditioning controller according to means 1, wherein the first rewriting mode is an image rewriting mode in which the image displayed on the display section is rewritten to the next image without going through the predetermined refresh display.

As shown in the present means 2, in the display control in the second rewriting mode, a predetermined refresh display for removing afterimages is incorporated to suppress a decline in the discrimination ability of information due to the afterimage, and in the display control in the first rewriting mode, If the configuration is such that the predetermined refresh display is omitted and the image is quickly rewritten to suppress a decrease in responsiveness, the effect shown in the above means 1 can be suitably exhibited.

Note that the configuration shown in the present means 2 is as follows: "The first rewriting mode is an image rewriting mode in which the image displayed on the display section is directly rewritten to a target image, and the second rewriting mode is an image rewriting mode in which the image displayed on the display section is directly rewritten to a target image. The air conditioning controller according to means 1 is in an image rewriting mode in which an image displayed on the display unit is rewritten to a target image via rewriting to a refresh image.

Means 3. The predetermined refresh display includes an inverted display that inverts the print pattern (for example, black and white) of the image displayed on the display section, and an erase display that erases the image displayed on the display section (full bright display or full bright display). The air conditioning controller according to the means 2, which includes at least one of the following: (dark display).

When the display section of the air conditioning controller is configured with electronic paper, as shown in the present means 3, afterimages can be avoided by configuring the display in which the printed pattern (brightness pattern) is reversed or the image is erased as a predetermined refresh display. can be suitably reduced.

Means 4. The automatic rewriting condition determining means is configured to perform automatic rewrite condition determination for a predetermined period of time without any user operation in a situation where an image other than a predetermined standby image (main menu image) is displayed on the display unit. (for example, a first reference time) has elapsed, it is determined that the first automatic rewriting condition (condition for returning to the main menu), which is the predetermined automatic rewriting condition, is satisfied,
The second rewriting means changes the image displayed on the display unit into the second rewriting mode when the automatic rewriting condition determining means determines that the first automatic rewriting condition is satisfied. The air conditioning controller according to any one of means 1 to 3, further comprising means for rewriting the predetermined standby image to the predetermined standby image.

According to the above configuration, when the user leaves the air conditioning controller alone after completing the operation, the air conditioning controller is automatically rewritten to a predetermined standby image in preparation for the next operation. At this time, by setting up a configuration in which the image is rewritten in the second rewriting mode that emphasizes appearance in preparation for later information confirmation → operation, it is possible to suitably contribute to improving the user's satisfaction level.

Means 5. Equipped with an environmental information acquisition means (temperature/humidity sensor 57) that acquires environmental information (for example, temperature and humidity) that is correlated with the indoor environment,
The automatic rewriting condition determining means determines a second automatic rewriting condition (a change in temperature or humidity that triggers image rewriting) that is the predetermined automatic rewriting condition when a predetermined change occurs in the indoor environment. The configuration is such that it is determined that the
The second rewriting means changes the image displayed on the display unit to correspond to the current indoor environment when the automatic rewriting condition determining means determines that the second automatic rewriting condition is satisfied. The air conditioning controller according to any one of means 1 to 4, further comprising means for rewriting the image in the second rewriting mode.

It is preferable for the air conditioning controller to display environmental information (room temperature and humidity) that serves as a guide when the user performs air conditioning operations, in order to improve user satisfaction. Although the indoor environment may change over time, it is assumed that many of these events occur when the user is not paying attention to the air conditioning controller. Therefore, when the above-mentioned event occurs, the user's satisfaction level can be suitably improved by performing rewriting using the second rewriting mode that emphasizes appearance and preparing for the air conditioning operation by the user.

Means 6. Equipped with an environmental information acquisition means (temperature/humidity sensor 57) that acquires environmental information (for example, temperature and humidity) that is correlated with the indoor environment,
The first rewriting means is configured to display on the display section when the driving parameters (air volume adjustment parameters) of the air conditioner are changed based on a user's operation (setting temperature changing operation). means for rewriting an image that is correlated with the drive parameters before the change to an image that is correlated with the drive parameters after the change in the first rewrite mode;
The second rewriting means is configured to update the image displayed on the display unit when the driving parameters changed based on the operation are changed based on the environmental information acquired by the environmental information acquiring means. Any one of the means 1 to 5, which has means for rewriting an image correlated with the drive parameters before the change to an image corresponding to the drive parameters after the change in the second rewrite mode. The air conditioning controller described in one.

According to the configuration shown in the present means 6, when the driving parameters are changed based on the user's operation, the image correlated to the driving parameters displayed on the display unit is used for the first rewriting with emphasis on speed. Can be rewritten in mode. In this way, by increasing the responsiveness of image rewriting during operation, user satisfaction can be improved. Although the indoor environment may change over time, it is assumed that many of these events occur when the user is not paying attention to the air conditioning controller. Therefore, when the above-mentioned event occurs, the user's satisfaction level can be suitably improved by performing rewriting using the second rewriting mode that emphasizes appearance and preparing for the air conditioning operation by the user.

Note that with respect to means 5 and 6, the rewrite mode is set depending on whether the indoor environment changes before a specific period has elapsed since the user's operation, or when the indoor environment changes after the specified period has elapsed. It is also possible to have a configuration in which the values are different. For example, in the former case, emphasis may be placed on responsiveness by rewriting in the first rewriting mode, and in the latter case, emphasis may be placed on appearance by rewriting in the second rewriting mode.

Means 7. When the predetermined operation is performed at the timing when the predetermined automatic rewriting condition is satisfied, the image is rewritten by the first rewriting means based on the predetermined operation (in the first rewriting mode). The air conditioning controller according to any one of means 1 to 6, wherein the air conditioning controller is configured such that priority is given to rewriting.

If the establishment of a predetermined automatic rewrite condition and a predetermined operation overlap, the latter is prioritized and the operation → image rewrite is performed promptly, thereby eliminating the factors that reduce the responsiveness of the automatic rewrite function during operation. This can be suitably avoided.

Means 8. After the image is rewritten by the first rewriting means, any one of means 1 to 7 includes a regulating means for regulating rewriting of the image by the second rewriting means until a predetermined regulation period has elapsed. The air conditioning controller described in one.

Regarding the operation of the air conditioning controller, multiple operations may be performed consecutively until the setting is completed. Therefore, as shown in the present means 8, after the image is rewritten by the first rewriting means, the rewriting of the image by the second rewriting means is temporarily restricted, so that the rewriting of the image is not affected by the user's intention. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the second rewrite mode, which has a long waiting time, from interrupting.

In addition, "If the predetermined automatic rewriting condition is satisfied while being regulated by the regulating means, the rewriting by the second rewriting means is delayed until the predetermined regulation period has elapsed. It is also possible to set the air conditioning controller according to means 8, which has the following configuration.

Means 9. The predetermined operations include a first operation (e.g., temperature adjustment operation) that is an adjustment operation of parameters for air conditioning control, and a second operation (e.g., menu switching operation) that is an operation menu switching operation,
If the first operation is performed while the image is being rewritten in the second rewriting mode, the rewriting of the image in the second rewriting mode is stopped and the image corresponding to the first operation is displayed. On the other hand, if the second operation is performed while the image is being rewritten in the second rewriting mode, the second rewriting mode is used. Any one of the means 1 to 8 configured to rewrite the image in the second rewriting mode by canceling the rewriting of the image and displaying the image corresponding to the second operation. Air conditioning controller as described in.

It is assumed that the difference between the images before and after rewriting will be more noticeable in the second operation, which is an operation menu switching operation, than in the first operation, which is a parameter adjustment operation. Therefore, if the first operation is performed while the image is being rewritten in the second rewrite mode, a new image is immediately displayed in the first rewrite mode, and the image is rewritten in the second rewrite mode. If the second operation is performed during the process, a practically preferable configuration can be realized by displaying an image in which the influence of afterimages is suppressed in the second rewriting mode.

Means 10. The image displayed on the display unit includes an operation icon to be operated by the user,
As a rewriting mode of the image on the display section, a first mode in which the operation icon is displayed at the same position on the display section before and after rewriting (for example, when the UP icon 83 and the DOWN icon 84 are operated on the temperature setting screen (a rewriting mode) and a second mode in which the arrangement of the operation icons on the display section changes before and after rewriting (for example, a rewriting mode when the operation switching icon 75, temperature setting icon 77, etc. are operated on the main menu) ) is provided,
The display control section includes:
means for rewriting the image in the first rewriting mode when the rewriting mode of the image on the display section is the first mode;
and means for rewriting the image in the second rewriting mode when the rewriting mode of the image on the display section becomes the second mode. Air conditioning controller listed.

Various information (images) displayed on the display section will be rewritten based on user operations. Here, according to the configuration shown in the present means 10, if the arrangement of the operation icons does not change before and after rewriting, the image is quickly rewritten in the first rewriting mode, thereby reducing the time required for waiting for the operation. Can be shortened. On the other hand, if the arrangement of the operation icons changes before and after rewriting, by rewriting the image neatly for a certain amount of time in the second rewriting mode, you can prevent the operation icons from becoming difficult to understand due to the influence of afterimages. It can be suppressed. Thereby, user convenience can be suitably improved.

Means 11. An air conditioning controller (air conditioning controller 12) that can control an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) based on a user's operation,
a display unit (display 53) that uses electronic paper as a display medium and is capable of displaying information regarding air conditioning as an image;
a display control unit (CPU 51) that performs display control of the display unit,
As an image rewriting mode in which the image on the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit, there is a first rewriting mode (first display control mode), and the time required to rewrite the image is longer than that in the first rewriting mode. Although it is long, there is a second rewriting mode (second display control mode) in which the image before rewriting is less likely to remain as an afterimage.
The image displayed on the display section includes operation icons (for example, operation switching icon 75, temperature setting icon 77, UP icon 83, DOWN icon 84, etc.) to be operated by the user,
As a mode of rewriting the image on the display section, a first mode in which the arrangement of the operation icons on the display section does not change before and after rewriting (for example, a mode when the UP icon 83 and the DOWN icon 84 are operated on the temperature setting screen); and a second mode in which the arrangement of the operation icons on the display section changes before and after rewriting (for example, a rewriting mode when the operation switching icon 75, temperature setting icon 77, etc. are operated on the main menu). is provided,
The display control section includes:
means for rewriting the image in the first rewriting mode when the rewriting mode of the image on the display section is the first mode;
and means for rewriting the image in the second rewriting mode when the rewriting mode of the image on the display section becomes the second mode.

Air conditioners often continue to operate under the conditions set at the start of operation, and the period during which the air conditioning controller is operated is extremely short compared to the period during which it is waiting for operation. Therefore, if the display section of the air conditioning controller is configured with electronic paper as described above, although a certain amount of power will be required to rewrite the image with operation, it will be easier to maintain the air conditioning information displayed. Power consumption can be extremely reduced. For example, compared to the case where the display section is configured with a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, a plasma display, etc., the influence of improved convenience (increase in power consumption) can be suppressed more favorably.

Various information (images) displayed on the display section will be rewritten based on user operations. Here, according to the configuration shown in the present means 11, if the arrangement of the operation icons does not change before and after rewriting, the image is quickly rewritten in the first rewriting mode, thereby reducing the time required for waiting for the operation. Can be shortened. On the other hand, if the arrangement of the operation icons changes before and after rewriting, by rewriting the image neatly for a certain amount of time in the second rewriting mode, you can prevent the operation icons from becoming difficult to understand due to the influence of afterimages. It can be suppressed. Thereby, user convenience can be suitably improved.

Means 12. An air conditioning controller (air conditioning controller 12) that can control an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) based on a user's operation,
a display unit (display 53) using electronic paper as a display medium and capable of displaying information regarding the air conditioning as an image;
a display control unit (CPU 51) that performs display control of the display unit,
As a rewrite mode in which the image on the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit, there is a first rewrite mode (first display control mode), and the time required to rewrite the image is longer than in the first rewrite mode. On the other hand, a second rewriting mode (second display control mode) is provided in which the image before rewriting is less likely to become an afterimage.
The display control section includes:
a rewriting unit (a function for executing processes such as steps S203, S208, S212, S214, etc. in the CPU 51) for rewriting the image on the display unit from a first image (for example, a driving menu) to a second image (for example, a main menu);
an operation determination unit (a function for executing the process of step S203 in the CPU 51) for determining whether or not a predetermined operation (for example, operation of the home icon 96) has been performed by the user;
It has a condition determining means (a function of executing the process of step S211 in the CPU 51) for determining whether a predetermined automatic rewriting condition (for example, an automatic return condition to the main menu) is satisfied,
The rewriting unit is configured to display the first image on the display unit when the operation determining unit determines that the predetermined operation has been performed while the first image is being displayed on the display unit. While rewriting the image from the first image to the second image in the first rewriting mode, the condition determining means rewrites the predetermined automatic The image display unit is configured to rewrite the image displayed on the display unit from the first image to the second image in the second rewriting mode when it is determined that a rewriting condition is satisfied. Air conditioning controller.

The various information (images) displayed on the display can be rewritten not only by user operations but also by changes in control status (airflow) or environment (room temperature and humidity), which improves the ability to provide information to users. This is preferable in terms of suitability. Here, according to the configuration shown in the above means 12, the first rewriting mode that emphasizes rewriting speed and the second rewriting mode that emphasizes appearance are used as the image rewriting mode depending on the rewriting trigger. Specifically, when a predetermined operation is performed by the user, the first image is rewritten from the second image in the first rewrite mode, and predetermined automatic rewrite conditions such as changes in room temperature, air volume, etc. If this holds true, the first image is rewritten from the second image in the second rewriting mode. When the air conditioning controller is operated by the user, the image is quickly rewritten, which can shorten the time it takes to wait for the operation, and when predetermined automatic rewriting conditions are met, it takes a certain amount of time to rewrite the image. The user's convenience can be suitably improved by preparing for later information confirmation → operation by rewriting the information neatly.

Means 13. a controller unit (controller unit 20) provided with an operation section operated by a user, the display section, and the display control section;
a holder (holder 30) that removably holds the controller unit;
The air conditioning controller according to any one of means 1 to 12, wherein the display section and the display control section of the controller unit are supplied with electric power from an internal power source of the controller unit.

If the technical idea shown in Means 1 etc. is applied to the configuration shown in Means 13, the need for frequent battery replacement and charging can be avoided, and the effect of improving convenience by making the air conditioning controller portable can be advantageously achieved. can be demonstrated.

Means 14. An air conditioner comprising the air conditioning controller described in any one of means 1 to means 13, and an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) that operates based on command information from the air conditioning controller.

According to the above configuration, the convenience of the air conditioner can be suitably improved.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an air conditioner in a first embodiment. A schematic diagram of the air conditioning controller viewed from the front. (a) Schematic diagram showing display contents; (b) Schematic diagram showing hierarchy transition. A schematic diagram illustrating the flow of operations. A schematic diagram illustrating the flow of operations. A cross-sectional view showing the structure of a display. A schematic diagram illustrating how an afterimage occurs. A schematic diagram comparing display control modes. (a) A schematic diagram showing the flow of display switching in the first display control mode, (b) A schematic diagram showing the flow of display switching in the second display control mode. 5 is a flowchart showing display control processing executed by the CPU. 5 is a flowchart showing menu display control processing. Flowchart showing room temperature/air volume display control processing. 5 is a flowchart showing parameter display control processing. A schematic diagram showing the relationship between various triggers and display control modes. 7 is a flowchart showing parameter display control processing in the second embodiment. Flowchart showing refresh processing. Timing chart showing the basic refresh flow. Schematic diagram showing an update pattern. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between various triggers and display control modes in the third embodiment.

<First embodiment>
Hereinafter, one embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. This embodiment is embodied in an air conditioner applied to a building such as a residence.

As shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioner 10 includes an air conditioner 11 (air conditioner) having cooling/heating and dehumidifying functions, and an air conditioning controller 12 that is a wireless controller for the air conditioner 11. The air conditioning controller 12 allows various operations such as switching the operation mode of the air conditioner 11 (cooling mode, heating mode, dehumidification mode, ventilation mode), setting temperature, and setting air volume and direction, and the settings are changed by the operation. If so, command information indicating that fact is transmitted to the air conditioner 11. The air conditioner 11 switches the operating mode, etc. based on the received command information.

The air conditioning controller 12 is composed of a controller unit 20 as a portable operation means and a holder 30 fixed to a wall surface 40 of the living room, and the controller unit 20 is detachably held by the holder 30 (Fig. (see 2). The controller unit 20 is composed of a controller main body 21 and a case body 22 that houses the controller main body 21 with a display surface 21a exposed.Air conditioning information, operation icons, etc., which will be described later, are displayed on the display surface 21a. be done.

The controller unit 20 is provided with a CPU 51 (corresponding to a "display control section") that performs main control in the air conditioning controller 12. A display 53 (corresponding to a "display section") is connected to the CPU 51 via a graphic IC 52. The graphic IC 52 controls the display on the display 53 based on command information from the CPU 51. Further, a capacitive touch panel 55 is connected to the CPU 51 via a touch IC 54 . The touch panel 55 is stacked on the display 53 so as to be located in front of the display 53, and is configured so that the display contents of the display 53 can be viewed through the touch panel 55. The touch IC 54 has a function of detecting a change in current (change in capacitance) at a portion touched by a user's finger when the touch panel 55 is operated, and the detection information is output from the touch IC 54 to the CPU 51. be done. The CPU 51 determines the presence or absence of an operation and the position of the operation based on the input detection information. Note that the method for detecting operations on the touch panel 55 is not limited to the capacitance method, and may be other methods such as a resistive film method, an electromagnetic induction method, or an ultrasonic method.

The controller unit 20 is also provided with a temperature/humidity sensor 57 (corresponding to "environmental information acquisition means") that detects indoor temperature and humidity. The temperature/humidity sensor 57 is connected to the CPU 51, and the detected information on temperature and humidity is grasped by the CPU 51, and information such as the current room temperature is displayed on the display 53.

The controller unit 20 is provided with a power switch 58, an internal power source 62 that is a primary battery, and a power supply circuit 61. When the power switch 58 is turned on, power is supplied from the internal power supply 62 to the CPU 51, graphic IC 52, touch IC 54, etc. through the power supply circuit 61, and when the power switch 58 is turned off, power is supplied to the CPU 51, etc. is blocked. In the controller unit 20 shown in this embodiment, when the power switch 58 is turned on, the display surface 21a (display 53) of the controller main body 21 displays various information related to air conditioning (air conditioning information), specifically the operating mode and the like. Control information indicating adjustment parameters for air conditioning, environmental information indicating room temperature and humidity, etc. are always displayed (see Figure 3 (a)), improving user convenience. .

As shown in FIG. 3(b), the screens displayed on the display surface 21a include a main menu screen (first layer) for menu selection, an operation menu screen (second layer) for switching the operation menu, It is possible to switch (transition) to a detailed setting screen (third layer) for individually setting adjustment parameters (hereinafter also simply referred to as parameters) such as set temperature and set air volume. These screens are configured to be switched when the user performs a screen switching operation or when a condition for returning to the main menu screen is met.

First, the main menu screen will be explained with reference to FIG. 3(a). On the main menu screen, the air conditioning information and operation icons serving as operation means for changing settings are displayed. Specifically, the air conditioning information includes an operation mode display image 71 indicating the current operation mode, an indoor temperature display image 72 indicating the current indoor temperature, and a set temperature display image 73 indicating the current set temperature. , and an air volume display image 74 indicating the current air volume (air volume). Details will be described later, but if the indoor temperature changes or the air volume changes, the image 72 for displaying the indoor temperature and the image 74 for displaying the air volume will be updated at any time so that they correspond to the latest indoor temperature and air volume. Updated (switched). Further, as operation icons, an operation switching icon 75 for switching the operating mode, a fan switching icon 76 for switching the air volume and air direction, and a temperature setting icon 77 for changing the temperature setting are displayed.

As shown in FIG. 4, when the operation switching icon 75 is operated (pressed) while the main menu screen is displayed, the main menu screen is switched to the operation menu screen. On the operation menu screen, there is a teaching image 91 indicating that it is an operation menu screen, a cooling mode icon 92 which is an operation icon for selecting the operation mode, a heating mode icon 93, a dehumidification mode icon 94, and a ventilation mode icon. 95 and a return icon 96 which is an operation icon for returning to the main menu screen are displayed. In other words, the types and arrangement of the displayed operation icons are significantly changed from the main menu screen.

FIG. 4 illustrates a case where the cooling mode icon 92 is operated by the user while the operation menu screen is being displayed. In this case, the operation mode is switched to the cooling mode, and at the same time, the screen is switched to the temperature adjustment screen, which is one of the detailed setting screens. Further, the temperature setting icon 77 on the main menu screen functions as a shortcut icon to the detailed setting screen, and also switches to the temperature adjustment screen when the temperature setting icon 77 is operated by the user.

The temperature adjustment screen includes a teaching image 81 indicating that it is a temperature adjustment screen, a set temperature display image 82 indicating the current set temperature, and an UP icon 83 and a DOWN icon 84 that are operation icons for temperature adjustment. Is displayed. When the DOWN icon 84 is operated, the set temperature is lowered by 1°C and the set temperature display image 82 is updated to an image corresponding to the latest set temperature (see FIG. 5). Further, when the UP icon 83 is operated, the set temperature is raised by 1°C and the set temperature display image 82 is updated to an image corresponding to the latest set temperature. Note that when the image is rewritten due to adjustment of the set temperature, the set temperature display image 82 is changed, but the types and positions of operation icons such as the UP icon 83 are not changed.

Similarly, when the heating mode icon 93 is operated while the operation menu screen is displayed, the setting temperature can be adjusted by switching to the temperature adjustment screen. When the dehumidification mode icon 94 is operated while the operation menu screen is being displayed, the operation mode is switched to the dehumidification mode and also switched to the humidity adjustment screen, which is one of the detailed setting screens. On the humidity adjustment screen, a teaching image indicating that it is a humidity adjustment screen, a setting humidity display image indicating the current setting humidity, and an UP icon and a DOWN icon that are operation icons for humidity adjustment are displayed. When the UP icon is operated, the set humidity is increased by 1% and the set humidity display image is updated (switched) to the image corresponding to the latest set humidity, and when the DOWN icon is operated, the set humidity is increased. is lowered by 1%, and the set humidity display image is updated (switched) to an image corresponding to the latest set humidity. Note that when the image is rewritten due to adjustment of the humidity setting, the image for displaying the humidity setting is changed, but the types and positions of operation icons such as the UP icon are not changed.

Returning to the explanation of the main menu screen, if the fan switching icon 76 is operated while the main menu screen is being displayed, the screen will switch to the air volume/air direction adjustment screen, which is one of the detailed setting screens mentioned above. . This air volume/air direction adjustment screen includes a teaching image indicating that it is the air volume/air direction adjustment screen, a set air volume display image showing the current air volume, a set wind direction display image showing the wind direction, and an operation for adjusting the air volume. Air volume adjustment icons (UP icon, DOWN icon, AUTO icon), which are icons, and a wind direction adjustment icon, which is an operation icon for adjusting the wind direction, are displayed. For example, when the UP icon is operated, the set air volume is raised by one level and the image for displaying the set air volume is updated (switched) to the image corresponding to the latest set air volume, and when the DOWN icon is operated, the set air volume is set. At the same time as the air volume is lowered by one level, the image for displaying the set air volume is updated (switched) to the image corresponding to the latest air volume setting, and when the AUTO icon is operated, the set air volume is automatically changed to automatic mode. At the same time, the set air volume display image is changed to an image corresponding to the automatic mode. Note that when the image is rewritten due to adjustment of the set air volume and wind direction, the image for displaying the set air volume and the image for displaying the set wind direction will be changed, but the type and position of operation icons such as the UP icon will not be changed. .

As mentioned above, configuring the air conditioning information to remain displayed even during the waiting period (standby) when the user is not performing any operations makes it easier for the user to check the air conditioning status, etc. This is advantageous in improving convenience. However, if the user's convenience is improved by continuing to display information even during standby as described above, the power consumption of the air conditioner 10 (particularly the air conditioner controller 12) tends to increase. It is assumed that this will hinder the realization of energy conservation. Here, one of the features of this embodiment is that the display 53 is constructed using electrophoretic electronic paper. Although electrophoretic electronic paper requires a certain amount of power when rewriting an image, the power consumption when maintaining the same image displayed can be extremely reduced. This makes it possible to suppress an increase in power consumption due to improved convenience of the air conditioning controller 12. Hereinafter, the structure of the display 53 will be specifically explained with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a partial sectional view of the controller unit 20.

The display 53 includes a film-like base layer 101 that forms the back side of the display, a film-like surface layer 102 that forms the front side of the display, and an intermediate layer provided between the base layer 101 and the surface layer 102. 103. The base layer 101 has an insulating property, and electrodes 106 are disposed on the front side of the base layer 101. The electrodes 106 are made of minute metal plates arranged vertically and horizontally along the base layer 101. The surface layer 102 also has insulating properties, and an electrode 107 that is a transparent conductive film is provided on the back side thereof. The electrodes 106 and 107 are connected to a graphic IC 52, and the graphic IC 52 controls the voltage applied to the electrode 106 based on instructions from the CPU 51. When no voltage is applied, the electrodes 106 and 107 are at the same level, and when a voltage is applied, a potential difference is generated between the electrodes 106 and 107.

A microcapsule 105 as an electrophoretic element forming a dot (pixel) of each image is provided between the electrode 106 and the electrode 107. Microcapsules 105 are arranged for each electrode 106, and a display layer consisting of a large number of microcapsules 105 arranged two-dimensionally is formed between base layer 101 and surface layer 102. Note that the intermediate layer 103 is composed of electrodes 106 and 107 and microcapsules 105.

The microcapsule 105 is composed of a spherical transparent capsule filled with a colorless and transparent dispersion liquid 110 (oil), and a large number of white particles 111 and a large number of black particles 112 encapsulated within the transparent capsule. The black particles 112 are negatively charged and the white particles 111 are positively charged, and the white particles 111 and black particles 112 are displaced depending on the potential difference between the electrodes 106 and 107. Specifically, when the electrode 106 has a higher potential than the electrode 107, the positively charged white particles 111 are attracted to the electrode 107 side, and the negatively charged black particles 112 are attracted to the electrode 106 side. Gravitate. As a result, the color of the dots when the display 53 is viewed from the front side becomes white. On the other hand, when the electrode 106 has a lower potential than the electrode 107, the positively charged white particles 111 are attracted to the electrode 106 side, and the negatively charged black particles 112 are attracted to the electrode 107 side. Gravitate. As a result, the color of the dots when the display 53 is viewed from the front side becomes black.

Here, for electrophoretic electronic paper, screen switching (image rewriting) depends on the displacement of particles 111 and 112. Therefore, even if an attempt is made to displace the particles 111, 112 by applying a voltage, the particles 111, 112 between the electrodes 106, 107 will be displaced due to, for example, collision between the particles or attraction between the particles. may not be performed properly. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 7, supplementary explanation will be given of the behavior when such a situation occurs. FIG. 7(a) is a schematic diagram illustrating the flow of image rewriting, and FIG. 7(b) is a schematic diagram illustrating the movement of particles at a specific location S in FIG. 7(a).

When the conditions for rewriting to image B are satisfied in a situation where image A is displayed, voltages are applied to each electrode 106 and 107 in a pattern corresponding to image B. Specifically, in image B, a voltage is applied so that the electrode 106 has a lower potential than the electrode 107 in the dots to be displayed in black, and the voltage is applied so that the electrode 106 has a lower potential than the electrode 107 in the dots to be displayed in white. A voltage is applied so that the potential is higher than that of the voltage.

In the dots at the specific location S that is to be displayed in black in image A and displayed in white in image B, the black particles 112 start to be displaced toward the electrode 106 with the application of the voltage described above. , the white particles 111 begin to be displaced toward the electrode 107. However, in the example shown in FIG. 7, even when the voltage application is finished and the potential difference between the electrodes 106 and 107 becomes zero, some black particles 112 remain on the electrode 107 side, and some white particles remain on the electrode 107 side. 111 remains on the electrode 106 side. In this case, the color of the dots at the specific location S, which should normally change from black to white, becomes light black (gray). In other words, even after rewriting to image B, a faint afterimage of image A remains. When such an afterimage becomes strong, the visibility (identifiability, clarity) of the rewritten image B may deteriorate.

Furthermore, if the conditions for rewriting to image C are satisfied while image B is being displayed, a voltage is applied to each electrode 106 in a pattern corresponding to image C. Specifically, in the dots to be displayed in black in image C, a voltage is applied so that the electrode 106 has a lower potential than the electrode 107, and in the dots to be displayed in white, the electrode 106 is applied to the electrode 107. A voltage is applied so that the potential is higher than that of the voltage.

Here, the dots at the specific location S are subject to white display, and with the application of the voltage described above, the black particles 112 start displacing toward the electrode 106, and the white particles 111 begin displacing toward the electrode 107. start displacement. However, in the example shown in FIG. 7, even when the voltage application is finished and the potential difference between the electrodes 106 and 107 becomes zero, some black particles 112 remain on the electrode 107 side, and some white particles remain on the electrode 107 side. 111 remains on the electrode 106 side. In this case, the color of the dots at the specific location S, which should normally change from black to white, remains light black (gray). In other words, even after rewriting to image C, a faint afterimage of image A remains. Although the degree of afterimage can be alleviated by repeatedly applying voltage in a manner corresponding to white display, the visibility (distinguishability, clarity) of image C after rewriting decreases due to continued gray display. It is possible. Furthermore, since image B remains as a new afterimage, the afterimage may accumulate, and the visibility of image C may be significantly reduced.

The influence of such afterimages becomes more noticeable by shortening the waiting time for image rewriting to improve responsiveness, but it can be alleviated by attempting to remove afterimages when rewriting images. In this embodiment, the CPU 51 functions as a "display control unit", and the display control mode (corresponding to "image rewriting mode") of the display 53 by the CPU 51 is a first mode that emphasizes the responsiveness of image rewriting. One of the features is that the display control mode and the second display control mode, which focuses on alleviating the influence of afterimages (visibility of the image after rewriting), are used together (see FIG. 8). Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 9, differences in image rewriting modes between the first display control mode and the second display control mode will be explained. Note that, for convenience of explanation, FIG. 9 illustrates a case where the currently displayed image X is rewritten to the image Y, which is the target image.

As shown in FIG. 9A, when rewriting image X to image Y in the first display control mode, a voltage is applied to each electrode 106, 107 so that a potential difference corresponding to image Y is generated. As a result, the image is directly rewritten from image X to image Y. After the rewriting to the image Y is completed, the application of voltage to the electrodes 106 and 107 is ended, thereby avoiding further power consumption. According to such a rewriting mode (hereinafter also referred to as direct rewriting), it is possible to reduce the waiting time for image rewriting and improve the responsiveness of image rewriting. However, on the other hand, the above-mentioned afterimage tends to remain.

As shown in FIG. 9(b), when rewriting image X to image Y in the second display control mode, the configuration is such that four phases ST1 to ST4 are passed.

In the first phase ST1, the print pattern (light and dark pattern, black and white) of image X is reversed. Specifically, for each electrode 106 and 107, if the electrode 106 has a higher potential than the electrode 107, a voltage is applied so that the electrode 106 has a lower potential than the electrode 107, and the electrode 106 has a higher potential than the electrode 107. For those whose potential is also low, a voltage is applied so that the electrode 106 has a higher potential than the electrode 107 (hereinafter referred to as inverted display). In the subsequent second phase ST2, a voltage is applied so that all the electrodes 106 have a higher potential than the electrodes 107 in order to erase the inverted image and make the entire screen white (hereinafter referred to as full brightness display). ).

After performing the full brightness display, the process proceeds to the third phase ST3, and as a preparation display before displaying the image Y, a preparation image whose printing pattern is opposite to that of the image Y is displayed in advance. Specifically, a voltage is applied to each electrode 106, 107 so that a potential difference corresponding to a preparation image having a print pattern opposite to image Y is generated. In the subsequent fourth phase ST4, the image Y is displayed by inverting the print pattern of the preparation image displayed in the third phase ST3. Specifically, for each electrode 106 and 107, if the electrode 106 has a higher potential than the electrode 107, a voltage is applied so that the electrode 106 has a lower potential than the electrode 107, and the electrode 106 has a higher potential than the electrode 107. For those whose potential is also low, a voltage is applied so that the electrode 106 has a higher potential than the electrode 107. After the rewriting to the image Y is completed, the application of voltage to the electrodes 106 and 107 is ended, thereby avoiding further power consumption.

In this embodiment, when rewriting an image in the second display control mode, the voltage application (approximately 70 msec) is repeated multiple times (for example, 3 to 8 times) in each phase ST1 to ST4. When rewriting an image in the first display control mode, the voltage is applied only once (approximately 70 msec).

In the second display control mode, by displaying image Y after removing the afterimage of image , the influence of afterimages is significantly alleviated compared to the first display control mode. That is, while the second display control mode is inferior to the first display control mode in terms of image rewriting responsiveness, it is superior to the first display control mode in terms of visibility (identifiability, clarity) of images after rewriting.

In this embodiment, the display control mode applied depending on the trigger of image rewriting is configured to be different, and the power consumption in the air conditioner 10 is reduced by properly using the first display control mode and the second display control mode. One of its features is that it achieves both reduction and improvement in convenience. The display control process executed by the CPU 51 will be described below. The display control process is a process executed as part of the periodic process, and includes a menu display control process (step S101), a room temperature/air volume display control process (step S102), and a parameter display control process (step S103) (FIG. 10). reference).

As shown in FIG. 11, in the menu display control process, first, in step S201, it is determined whether the menu display is being switched. Specifically, it is determined whether one screen among the main menu screen, operation menu screen, and detailed setting screen is being switched to another screen. If a negative determination is made in step S201, the process advances to step S202. In step S202, it is determined whether the user has performed a menu switching operation. Specifically, when the main menu screen is displayed, it is determined whether any of the operation switching icon 75, fan switching icon 76, and temperature setting icon 77 has been operated, and the operation menu screen is displayed. If so, it is determined whether any of the cooling mode icon 92, heating mode icon 93, dehumidification mode icon 94, ventilation mode icon 95, and return icon 96 has been operated, and the temperature adjustment screen, etc. If the detailed setting screen is being displayed, it is determined whether the return icon has been operated.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S202, the process advances to step S203 and a menu display first switching start process is executed. In this process, image rewriting (menu display switching) is started in the first display control mode. For example, if the operation switching icon 75 is operated while the main menu screen is displayed, the operation menu screen is displayed in the first display control mode, and if the temperature setting icon 77 is operated while the main menu screen is displayed, the operation menu screen is displayed in the first display control mode. The temperature setting screen is displayed in the first display control mode, and if the cooling mode icon 92 or heating mode icon 93 is operated while the operation menu screen is displayed, the temperature setting screen is displayed in the first display control mode. However, if the return icon is operated while the operation menu screen or temperature setting screen is displayed, the main menu screen is displayed.

In the following step S204, a menu display first switching flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51, and in step S205, a return timer counter in the RAM is reset. Although details will be described later, the CPU 51 refers to a return timer counter to determine whether or not to return to the main menu screen. Thereafter, in step S206, menu switching operations are prohibited, parameter adjustment operations are also prohibited, and the menu display control process ends.

Returning to the explanation of step S202, if a negative determination is made in step S202, that is, if no menu switching operation is performed, the process advances to step S209. In step S209, it is determined whether the main menu screen is displayed. If an affirmative determination is made in step S209, the menu display control process is immediately terminated. If a negative determination is made in step S209, that is, if either the driving menu screen or the detailed setting screen is displayed, the process advances to step S210.

In step S210, the recovery timer counter is updated. Specifically, 1 is added to the value of the recovery timer counter. In the following step S211, it is determined whether the value of the recovery timer counter is a first threshold value (corresponding to 30 seconds, for example). If a negative determination is made in step S210, the menu display control process is immediately terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S210, the process advances to step S212 and a menu display second switching start process is executed. In this process, menu display switching is started to display the main menu screen in the second display control mode. Specifically, a reversal display (refresh display) in which the print pattern of the image is reversed is started (first phase ST1).

In the following step S213, a second menu display switching flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51. Thereafter, in step S206, menu switching operations are prohibited, parameter adjustment operations are also prohibited, and the menu display control process ends.

Returning to the explanation of step S201, if an affirmative determination is made in step S201, the process advances to step S207. In step S207, it is determined whether or not the first menu display switching flag is stored in the RAM of the CPU 51. If an affirmative determination is made in step S207, the menu display first switching process for direct rewriting is executed in step S208, and then this menu display control process is ended.

In the first menu display switching process, first, it is determined whether a predetermined time (for example, 70 msec) has elapsed since the current image rewriting was started. When the predetermined time has elapsed, the application of voltage to the electrodes 106 and 107 is terminated. This completes the rewriting of the image in the first display control mode. After the voltage application is finished, the restriction on menu switching operations and parameter adjustment operations is released, and the menu display first switching flag stored in the RAM is erased.

If a negative determination is made in step S207, that is, if the second menu display switching flag is stored in the RAM, the second menu display switching process is executed in step S214, and the main menu display control process is ended. .

In this embodiment, the ROM of the CPU 51 stores a map showing the procedure for rewriting an image in the second display control mode. This map shows the relationship between the elapsed time after the start of image rewriting and the voltage application pattern, and in the second menu display switching process, the voltage applied to the electrodes 106 and 107 is controlled with reference to this map. do. As a result, the display switches in the order of first phase ST1→second phase ST2→third phase ST3→fourth phase ST4. After the image rewriting is completed, the restriction on menu switching operations and parameter adjustment operations is released, and the menu display second switching flag stored in the RAM is erased.

Next, the room temperature/air volume display control process in step S102 will be described with reference to FIG. 12. The room temperature/air volume display control processing is roughly divided into room temperature display processing in steps S301 to S306 and air volume display processing in steps S307 to S312.

In the room temperature display process, first, in step S301, it is determined whether or not the room temperature display on the display 53 is being updated, that is, the room temperature display image 72 on the main menu screen is being rewritten. do. If a negative determination is made in step S301, the process advances to step S302. In step S302, it is determined whether the main menu screen is currently being displayed. If an affirmative determination is made in step S302, the process advances to step S303. In step S303, it is determined whether a predetermined change in the room temperature (in this embodiment, a change of 0.5°C or more with respect to the currently displayed temperature) has occurred with reference to the detection information from the temperature/humidity sensor 57. judge. If an affirmative determination is made in step S303, the process advances to step S304 and a room temperature display update start process is executed. This room temperature display update start process corresponds to the second display control mode, and starts an inverted display (refresh display) that inverts the print pattern of the currently displayed image (first phase ST1). In the following step S305, a room temperature display updating flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51. The room temperature display updating flag is a flag that is referenced when the CPU 51 determines whether or not the room temperature display is being updated.

Returning to the explanation of step S301, if an affirmative determination is made in step S301, that is, if the room temperature display is currently being updated, a room temperature display update process is executed in step S306. In the room temperature display update process, the display is switched by referring to the map stored in the ROM. As a result, the display switches in the order of first phase ST1→second phase ST2→third phase ST3→fourth phase ST4. Then, when the image rewriting is completed, the room temperature display updating flag stored in the RAM is erased.

After executing the processes in steps S305 and S306, or when a negative determination is made in steps S302 and S303, the air volume display process from step S307 onwards is executed.

In the air volume display process, first, in step S307, it is determined whether the air volume display on the display 53 is being updated, that is, the air volume display image 74 on the main menu screen is being rewritten. . If a negative determination is made in step S307, the process advances to step S308. In step S308, it is determined whether the main menu screen is currently being displayed. If an affirmative determination is made in step S308, the process advances to step S309. In step S309, it is determined whether or not a predetermined change (level change) has occurred in the air volume (air volume) with reference to the driving status of the fan. If an affirmative determination is made in step S309, the process advances to step S310 and an air volume display update start process is executed. This air volume display update start process corresponds to the second display control mode, and starts an inverted display (refresh display) that inverts the print pattern of the currently displayed image (first phase ST1). In the following step S311, an air volume display updating flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51. The air volume display updating flag is a flag that is referenced when the CPU 51 determines whether or not the air volume display is being updated.

Returning to the explanation of step S307, if an affirmative determination is made in step S307, that is, if the air volume display is being updated, air volume display updating processing is executed in step S312. In the room temperature display update process, the display is switched by referring to the map stored in the ROM. As a result, the display switches in the order of first phase ST1→second phase ST2→third phase ST3→fourth phase ST4. Then, when the image rewriting is completed, the air volume display updating flag stored in the RAM is erased.

After executing the processes in steps S311 and S312, or when a negative determination is made in steps S308 and S309, this room temperature/air volume display control process is ended.

Note that on the main menu screen, there is a possibility that the update of the room temperature display and the air volume display (update of the main menu screen) and the menu operation by the user (operation of the operation switching icon 75, etc.) may accidentally overlap. In such a case, priority is given to menu operations, and updating of the room temperature display and air volume display by the user is avoided.

Next, the parameter display control process (step S103) will be explained with reference to FIG.

In the parameter display control process, first, in step S401, it is determined whether or not a detailed setting screen is being displayed. If a negative determination is made in step S401, this parameter display control process is immediately terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S401, the process advances to step S402. In step S402, whether or not the parameter display is being updated, specifically, on the temperature setting screen, whether or not the set temperature display image 82 is being updated, and the humidity adjustment On the screen, whether the image for displaying the set humidity is being updated or not, and on the air volume/air direction adjustment screen, whether the image for displaying the set air volume or the set air direction is being updated. Determine whether If the display is not currently being updated for any of the parameters, a negative determination is made in step S402 and the process proceeds to step S403.

In step S403, it is determined whether a parameter adjustment operation has been performed. Specifically, on the temperature setting screen, it is determined whether the user has operated the operation icons for temperature adjustment (UP icon 83, DOWN icon 84), and on the humidity adjustment screen, it is determined whether the user has operated the operation icons for humidity adjustment. It is determined whether the (UP icon, DOWN icon) has been operated, and on the air volume/air direction adjustment screen, it is determined whether the operation icon for adjusting the air volume or the operation icon for adjusting the wind direction has been operated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S403, the process advances to step S404.

In step S404, parameter display update start processing is executed. In this process, updating is started in the first display control mode to reflect the result of the adjustment operation on the parameters being displayed (direct rewriting). For example, when an operation icon for temperature adjustment is operated on the temperature setting screen, rewriting of the set temperature display image 82 is started so that the new set temperature changed by the operation is displayed (temperature setting screen). (Start rewriting the settings screen). Thereafter, in step S405, a parameter display updating flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51, and this parameter display control process is ended.

Returning to the explanation of step S402, if an affirmative determination is made in step S402, that is, if the parameter display is currently being updated, the parameter display update process is executed in step S406 to display the main parameters. Control processing ends.

In the parameter display update process, first, it is determined whether a predetermined time (for example, 70 msec) has elapsed since the current image rewriting was started. When the predetermined time has elapsed, the application of voltage to the electrodes 106 and 107 is terminated. This completes the rewriting of the image in the first display control mode. After the voltage application is finished, the parameter display updating flag stored in the RAM is erased. Furthermore, if the parameter adjustment operation is performed again before the predetermined time elapses, an update operation acceptance flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51. In other words, in this embodiment, the operation of the operation icon itself is effectively accepted even while the display of parameters is being updated. Note that a plurality of updating operation reception flags are provided, each corresponding to each operation icon, and it is possible to later identify which operation icon has been operated based on the type of the updating operation reception flag.

Returning to the explanation of step S403, if a negative determination is made in step S403, that is, if the parameter adjustment operation is not performed, the process advances to step S407. In step S407, it is determined whether or not the update operation acceptance flag is stored in the RAM of the CPU 51. If a negative determination is made in step S407, this parameter display control process is immediately terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S407, the process advances to step S408, and the updating operation reception flag stored in the RAM is erased. Thereafter, after executing each process of steps S404 and S405, this parameter display control process is ended.

Here, with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 14, supplementary explanation will be given regarding the relationship between the image rewriting trigger and the rewriting mode.

When rewriting an image triggered by a menu switching operation by the user, the first display control mode is applied. When switching to the main menu screen, operation menu screen, or detailed setting screen as a result of a menu switching operation, it is assumed that the user is gazing at the display 53, so the first display control mode is immediately activated. Responsiveness can be improved by switching screens.

When rewriting an image triggered by a parameter adjustment operation by the user, the first display control mode is applied, and the parameters are updated to reflect the adjustment operation. In this case, although the entire screen will change to correspond to the adjusted parameters, the type and arrangement of parts other than the part where parameters are displayed (parameter display area) on the detailed setting screen, such as operation icons, will change before and after the change. be the same. It is assumed that the user will repeat the parameter adjustment operation multiple times, but even if rewriting in the first display control mode (direct rewriting) continues due to such repeated operations, the display of the operation icon may not be possible. It is possible to suitably avoid the situation from becoming difficult to understand.

When rewriting the image in response to a change in room temperature or air volume, the second display control mode is applied and the air conditioning information is automatically updated to the latest information. Further, if the standby time elapses without any operation while the operation menu screen and detailed setting screen are displayed, the main menu screen is automatically returned. It is assumed that these automatic rewriting conditions mainly occur under a situation where the user is not gazing at the display 53. Therefore, the user's convenience can be suitably improved by taking a certain amount of time to cleanly switch images in preparation for later information confirmation and operation.

According to the first embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are achieved.

The air conditioner 11 often continues to operate under the conditions set at the start of operation, and the period during which the air conditioning controller 12 is operated is extremely short compared to the period during which it is waiting for operation. Therefore, if the display 53 of the air conditioning controller 12 is configured with electronic paper as described above, although a certain amount of power will be required to rewrite the image with the operation, if the information related to the air conditioning is to be kept displayed. power consumption can be extremely reduced. For example, compared to the case where the display 53 is configured with a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, a plasma display, etc., an increase in power consumption due to improved convenience can be suppressed in a preferable manner.

Regarding the various information (images) displayed on the display 53, it is preferable to switch not only based on user operations but also based on changes in the control status (air volume) or environment (room temperature and humidity) to improve the function of providing information to the user. This is preferable in terms of achieving this effect. Here, as shown in the above embodiment, as the display control mode for image rewriting (screen switching), the first display control mode emphasizes the responsiveness of image rewriting, and the first display control mode emphasizes the responsiveness of image rewriting, and the mitigation of the influence of afterimages (rewriting A second display control mode is provided that emphasizes the visibility of subsequent images, and when an operation is performed by the user, the image is rewritten in the first display control mode, while the second display control mode emphasizes changes in room temperature, airflow, etc. If the image is rewritten in the second display control mode when the automatic rewriting condition is met, the image will be immediately rewritten when the air conditioning controller 12 is operated by the user, and the system will wait for operation. The time can be shortened, and if the automatic rewriting conditions are met, it takes a certain amount of time to cleanly switch the image so that it can be prepared for later information confirmation and operation. Thereby, user convenience can be suitably improved.

Note that it is preferable to improve convenience while suppressing an increase in power consumption due to the increase in convenience. In other words, even if the convenience is further improved by making the air conditioning controller portable, the increased frequency of battery replacement of the air conditioning controller can be avoided, and the effect of improving convenience can be more effectively achieved. be able to.

<Second embodiment>
As already explained, when various parameters such as set temperature and set air volume are adjusted by the user, there is a possibility that the operation icon for parameter adjustment is repeatedly operated multiple times. In order to improve user satisfaction, it is preferable to perform image rewriting for each operation in the first display control mode to improve the responsiveness of image rewriting. However, if image rewriting in the first display control mode is repeated, the visibility of the image may be greatly reduced due to the accumulation of afterimages as shown in FIG. During operation, the user may remember the image before rewriting, so it may be possible to identify the image if there is a certain amount of afterimage, but the user's memory may fade over time. After that, it is assumed that identification based on memory becomes difficult. In other words, the accumulation of the above-mentioned afterimages can become a factor that makes it difficult to visually confirm the parameters after the fact. Here, for example, by shortening the waiting time before automatically returning to the main menu screen and immediately returning to the main menu screen, it is possible to avoid difficulty in confirming parameters. However, with such a configuration, the user is forced to perform a screen switching operation (for example, operation of the temperature setting icon 77, etc.) when performing a parameter adjustment operation next time. This increase in user effort is expected to be an impediment to improving convenience. One of the features of this embodiment is that it takes such circumstances into consideration. The characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. First, with reference to FIG. 15, parameter display control processing in this embodiment will be described.

In the parameter display control process, first, in step S501, it is determined whether a detailed setting screen is being displayed. If a screen other than the detailed setting screen is displayed, a negative determination is made in step S501, and the parameter display control process is ended. If the detailed setting screen is displayed, an affirmative determination is made in step S501 and the process advances to step S502.

Although the details will be described later, in this embodiment, if a predetermined time has elapsed since the parameter adjustment operation was performed, the refresh condition is satisfied, and the CPU 51 performs various refresh processes to remove afterimages from the image being displayed. Specifically, a process for redisplaying the currently displayed image in the second display control mode is started. In step S502, it is determined whether the refresh is currently in progress. If refreshing is in progress, a negative determination is made in step S502 and the process proceeds to step S503.

In step S503, it is determined whether the parameter display is currently being updated. Specifically, whether or not the set temperature display is being updated on the temperature setting screen, whether the set humidity display is being updated on the humidity adjustment screen, and the set air volume and set wind direction on the air volume/air direction adjustment screen. It is determined whether the display of is being updated. If the parameter display is not being updated, a negative determination is made in step S503 and the process advances to step S504.

In step S504, it is determined whether a parameter adjustment operation has been performed. Specifically, on the temperature setting screen, it is determined whether or not the user operates the temperature adjustment operation icon (UP icon 83, DOWN icon 84), and on the humidity adjustment screen, the user operates the humidity adjustment operation icon ( UP icon, DOWN icon) is operated, and determines whether the operation icon for adjusting the air volume (UP icon, DOWN icon) or the operation icon for adjusting the wind direction is operated on the air volume/air direction adjustment screen. do. Note that when the AUTO icon among the operation icons for air volume adjustment is operated, the screen switches to the main menu screen in the second display control mode, and the characters AUTO are additionally displayed as the air volume display image 74.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S504, the process advances to step S505. In step S505, a parameter display update start process related to the above-mentioned direct rewriting is executed in order to immediately update the displayed parameters. This process corresponds to the first display control mode. For example, when the operation icon for temperature adjustment is operated on the temperature setting screen, the new set temperature changed by the operation is set to be displayed. Start rewriting the temperature display image 82 (start rewriting the temperature setting screen).

After executing the parameter display update start process in step S505, a parameter display updating flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51 in step S506 to indicate that the parameter display is being updated, and the If a refresh completion flag, which will be described later, is stored in the RAM, the refresh completion flag is erased in step S507. The refresh completion flag is a flag that is set when the above refresh is completed. Thereafter, in step S508, the refresh timer counter provided in the RAM is reset (cleared to 0), and this parameter display control process is ended.

Returning to the explanation of step S504, if a negative determination is made in step S504, that is, if the parameter adjustment operation is not performed, the process advances to step S509. In step S509, it is determined whether or not the update operation acceptance flag is stored in the RAM of the CPU 51. If an affirmative determination is made in step S509, the process advances to step S510 and the updating operation reception flag stored in the RAM is erased. After that, each process of steps S505 to S508 is executed, and then this parameter display control process is ended.

If a negative determination is made in step S509, that is, if no parameter adjustment operation has been performed and no operation has been performed while the parameter display is being updated, the process advances to step S511. In step S511, it is determined whether a refresh completion flag is stored in the RAM of the CPU 51. If the refresh completion flag is stored, a negative determination is made in step S509 and the parameter display control process is ended. If a negative determination is made in step S511, the process advances to step S512. In step S512, the refresh timer counter described above is updated. Specifically, the refresh timer counter is incremented by one. In the subsequent step S513, it is determined whether the value of the refresh timer counter is a second threshold value (3 seconds in this embodiment) corresponding to the specified time.

If it is not the timing at which the predetermined time has elapsed since the parameter adjustment operation, a negative determination is made in step S513, and this parameter display control processing is ended. If the predetermined time has elapsed, an affirmative determination is made in step S513, and the process proceeds to step S514, where a refresh start process is executed. Note that the prescribed time may be changed arbitrarily as long as it is longer than the predetermined time and shorter than the waiting time. For example, it may be 0.5 sec, 1 sec, 5 sec, or 10 sec.

The refresh start process in step S514 corresponds to the second display control mode, and starts an inverted display (refresh display) in which the print pattern of the image is inverted (first phase ST1). In the following step S515, the menu switching operation is prohibited, and in step S516, a refresh flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51 as a flag indicating that refresh is in progress. After that, the refresh timer counter is reset in step S508, and this parameter display control process is ended.

Returning to the explanation of step S502, if an affirmative determination is made in step S502, that is, if the refresh flag is stored in the RAM, the refresh process is executed in step S502, and then the parameter display control process is performed. end. Here, the refresh process will be explained with reference to FIG. 16.

In the refresh process, first, in step S601, it is determined whether or not it is time for the refresh to be completed. If a negative determination is made in step S601, the process advances to step S602. In step S602, it is determined whether a parameter adjustment operation has been performed. If a negative determination is made in step S602, a refresh process is executed in step S603, and then the present refresh process is ended.

As described in the first embodiment, the ROM of the CPU 51 stores a map showing the procedure for rewriting an image in the second display control mode. This map shows the relationship between the elapsed time after the start of image rewriting and the voltage application pattern, and in the refresh process in step S603, the voltage applied to the electrodes 106 and 107 is controlled with reference to this map. . As a result, the display switches in the order of first phase ST1→second phase ST2→third phase ST3→fourth phase ST4. However, in the refresh process, the display content etc. are not changed, and the content of the image before switching substantially matches the content of the image after switching. In other words, although the degree of afterimage is different, the displayed images are the same before and after refreshing. By removing the afterimage in this manner and then displaying the image again, the visibility of the image is ensured.

Returning to the explanation of step S601, if an affirmative determination is made in step S601, that is, if it is the timing for refresh completion, the refresh completion processing of steps S609 to S611 is executed. Specifically, in step S609, the refresh flag stored in the RAM is erased, and in the subsequent step S610, a menu switching operation is permitted. Thereafter, in step S611, a refresh completion flag indicating that refresh has been completed is set in the RAM, and the present refresh process ends.

Here, the flow of refresh will be explained with reference to the timing chart of FIG. 17(a).

In the example shown in FIG. 17(a), the DOWN icon 84 is operated three times in succession after switching to the temperature setting screen (timings ta1 to ta3), and the set temperature changes from 24°C to 23°C to 22°C. →21°C. In line with this, the set temperature displayed on the display 53 is also updated in the order of 24°C → 23°C → 22°C → 21°C. The time from the first operation to the second operation and the time from the second operation to the third operation are both shorter than the specified time above, and it is difficult to rewrite the image in the first display control mode. It is being executed promptly. In the following description, an operation mode in which the same operation is repeated such that the interval time between operations is shorter than the specified time is referred to as a "continuous operation."

At timing ta4, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the third operation was performed, refresh is started. During refresh, the set temperature is temporarily difficult to see due to full brightness display, etc., but at timing ta5 when the refresh is completed, the set temperature is redisplayed with the afterimage removed. Thereafter, the display will continue until the conditions for automatic return to the main menu screen are met.

Here, in a configuration that requires a certain amount of time for refresh as described above, it cannot be denied that parameter adjustment operations may be performed during the refresh. In this embodiment, when such an adjustment operation is performed, a special update process is executed to promptly display parameters that reflect the operation results. The special update process will be described below with reference to FIGS. 15, 16, and 18 again.

As shown in FIG. 16, if a parameter adjustment operation is performed during refresh, an affirmative determination is made in step S602 and the process proceeds to step S604. In step S604, the refresh progress status is determined. That is, it is determined which of the first phase ST1 to the fourth phase ST4 is being executed. In the following step S605, a special update pattern is set with reference to the progress status grasped in step S604.

Specifically, when an adjustment operation is performed during the first phase ST1, a special update pattern is set from the second phase ST2 (full bright display) to the fourth phase ST4 (target image display), and the second phase ST2 If the adjustment operation is performed during the third phase ST3 or during the fourth phase ST4, the fourth phase ST4 is set as the special update pattern, and if the adjustment operation is performed during the third phase ST3 or the fourth phase ST4, the second special update pattern is set. Phase ST2→fourth phase ST4 is set (see FIG. 18). In other words, regardless of when the adjustment operation is performed, the intervention of the second phase ST2 makes it possible to reduce the influence of the afterimage on the image to be displayed next. Note that in the fourth phase ST4 in the special update pattern, the voltages applied to the electrodes 106 and 107 are controlled to display an image corresponding to the parameter changed by the operation. In the following description, the display control mode in which an image is rewritten using a special update pattern will be referred to as a "special display control mode" to distinguish it from the first display control mode and the second display control mode.

Incidentally, in this embodiment, the special update pattern is used differently depending on the progress of refreshing, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which a predetermined phase (for example, only the fourth phase ST4) is executed regardless of the progress of refresh.

In the following step S606, parameter display special update start processing is executed. In this process, application of voltage to the electrodes 106 and 107 is started based on the special update pattern set in step S605.

Thereafter, in step S607, a special update flag is set in the RAM of the CPU 51 as a flag indicating that special update processing is in progress, and in step S608, the refresh flag stored in the RAM is erased, and the Finish the process.

Returning to the explanation of FIG. 15, if the special update is being executed, that is, if affirmative determinations are made in step S503 and step S517, the process advances to step S519. In step S519, a parameter display special update process is executed. This process corresponds to the special control mode, and the voltages applied to the electrodes 106 and 107 are controlled based on the special update pattern set in step S605. After the image rewriting is completed, the restriction on the menu switching operation is released and the special update flag stored in the RAM is erased.

Here, the flow of image rewriting when a refresh operation is performed will be described with reference to the timing chart of FIG. 17(b).

The example shown in FIG. 17(b) is similar to the example shown in FIG. 17(a) in that refresh is started at the timing when a specified time has elapsed after the third operation was performed. However, the DOWN icon 84 was operated again at the timing of tb5 during refresh, that is, before the timing of tb5 that should have been the completion of the refresh, and based on this fourth operation, the set temperature was changed to 21. The temperature has been changed from °C to 20 °C. Refreshing is canceled based on the fourth operation, and the set temperature displayed on the display 53 is updated to 20°C through a full bright display.

Then, at timing tb6, when a specified time has elapsed since the fourth operation was performed, refreshing is started. Although the set temperature is temporarily difficult to visually recognize during the refresh, at the timing tb7 when the refresh is completed, the set temperature is redisplayed with the afterimage removed. Thereafter, the display will continue until the conditions for automatic return to the main menu screen are met.

According to the second embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are achieved.

If the user performs a parameter adjustment operation on the detailed setting screen before the automatic rewrite condition is satisfied (the specified time has elapsed), the parameter image will be changed to an image reflecting the operation result immediately in the first display control mode. can be rewritten as In this way, the responsiveness of image rewriting is improved by quickly executing the operation → image rewriting and shortening the time required to wait for the operation. Here, if operations are performed continuously and rewriting in the first display control mode (direct rewriting) is repeated, the previously displayed image may remain as an afterimage even after the image is rewritten. Become. It is assumed that as the number of such afterimages increases, it becomes difficult to identify images. In this regard, as shown in this embodiment, when direct rewriting is performed, the image being displayed is refreshed and redisplayed when the automatic rewriting conditions are met without any user operation. Ru. By removing the afterimage in this manner, it is possible to improve the image rewriting speed while making it easier to confirm the image after the fact.

When operations are continuous, the number of consecutive operations may vary. Therefore, as shown in this embodiment, by resetting the refresh timer counter each time an image is rewritten, refresh is executed before the continuous operation is completed, that is, the refresh function becomes a hindrance to the operation. This can be suitably suppressed. Furthermore, as shown in this embodiment, if the user performs an operation during refresh, the refresh function is canceled and the image is rewritten based on the operation, so that the refresh function becomes a hindrance to the operation. It is preferable to appropriately suppress this.

<Third embodiment>
In the first and second embodiments described above, when rewriting an image triggered by a user operation (excluding an operation during refresh), the display control mode is set to the first display control mode, and the automatic rewriting condition is satisfied. When rewriting an image as a trigger, the display control is set to the second display control mode, thereby achieving both reduction in power consumption and improvement in convenience in the air conditioner 10. This embodiment is similar to the first and second embodiments in that it uses both the first display control mode and the second display control mode as the display control mode, and has a configuration in which refresh display is performed after parameter adjustment. This is the same as the second embodiment. However, the relationship between the trigger for image rewriting and the display control mode is different from the first and second embodiments. The relationship between the image rewriting trigger and the rewriting mode in this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 19, focusing on the differences from the second embodiment.

When rewriting an image triggered by a menu switching operation by the user, the second display control mode is applied. The types and arrangement of images (air conditioning information, operation icons) displayed on the main menu screen, operation menu screen, and detailed setting screen differ greatly. Therefore, by suppressing the influence of afterimages by rewriting the screen using the second display control mode that emphasizes visibility, it is possible to suitably suppress the operation icons and the like from becoming difficult to understand after the screen is switched.

When rewriting an image triggered by a parameter adjustment operation by a user, the display control mode to be applied differs depending on whether refreshing is in progress or not. If refreshing is not in progress, the first display control mode is applied, and the parameters are immediately updated to reflect the adjustment operations, similar to the first and second embodiments. If refreshing is in progress, a special display control mode is applied, and the parameters are updated to reflect the adjustment operations through a fully bright display. By performing full brightness display, it is possible to suppress the visibility of the rewritten image from decreasing due to display disturbance during refresh.

When the refresh condition is satisfied (a specified time has elapsed since the previous operation), the second display control mode is applied, and the image is redisplayed after removing the afterimage. The refresh conditions are determined based on the assumption that the user has completed a series of operations, and prevent the refresh function from becoming a factor that reduces user convenience.

The second display control mode is applied when rewriting the image in response to a change in room temperature or air volume. This point is similar to the first and second embodiments.

<Other embodiments>
Note that the present invention is not limited to the contents described in each embodiment described above, and may be implemented as follows, for example. Incidentally, each of the following configurations may be applied individually to each of the above embodiments, or a part or all of them may be combined and applied to each of the above embodiments. Further, it is also possible to arbitrarily combine all or part of the various configurations shown in each of the above embodiments. In this case, it is preferable that the technical significance (effects exhibited) of each configuration to be combined is ensured.

- In each of the above embodiments, when a parameter adjustment operation is performed, the image is rewritten for the entire detailed setting screen, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to have a configuration (a configuration in which partial rewriting is performed) in which images are rewritten only for images that are different before and after rewriting (specifically, the parameter display area).

- When automatic rewriting conditions are satisfied due to changes in room temperature or air volume, it is also possible to change the display control mode to be applied depending on the timing at which the automatic rewriting conditions are established. For example, if the automatic rewriting condition is satisfied before a specific time elapses after the user's operation, the first display control mode is applied and emphasis is placed on the responsiveness of image rewriting, while the specific time elapses. If the automatic rewriting condition is satisfied after the rewriting, the second display control mode may be applied to emphasize the visibility of the rewritten image.

- In each of the above embodiments, the voltage is applied to the electrodes 106 and 107 only once in the first display control mode, but as in each phase in the second display control mode, the voltage is applied to the electrodes 106 and 107 only once. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which voltage application is repeated multiple times.

- In each of the above embodiments, the display 53 is constructed using electrophoretic electronic paper, but instead, it is also possible to construct the display 53 using electronic paper of another method such as an electronic powder fluid method.

- In each of the above embodiments, the air conditioning controller 12 is of a portable type, but it can also be of a fixed type.

- In each of the above embodiments, the internal power source 62 is a primary battery, but this does not negate a configuration in which the internal power source 62 is a secondary battery. Further, when the controller unit 20 is attached to the holder 30, power is supplied to devices such as the CPU 51 from an external power source (commercial power source), and when the controller unit 20 is removed from the holder 30, power is supplied from the internal power source 62. It is also possible to configure a configuration in which power is supplied from the CPU 51 to devices such as the CPU 51.

- After the image is rewritten in the first display control mode triggered by a user operation, the image is not rewritten in the second display control mode triggered by the establishment of the automatic rewriting condition until a predetermined regulation time has elapsed. It is also possible to have a configuration that regulates this. Regarding the operation of the air conditioning controller 12, the operation may be performed multiple times until the setting is completed. Therefore, as shown in this modification, by temporarily restricting the rewriting of the image by the second rewriting means, the image can be changed by the second display control mode with a long waiting time regardless of the user's intention. Interruption of rewriting can be suppressed.

・When various operations are performed at the timing when automatic rewriting conditions are met (if the triggers overlap), the configuration is such that priority is given to rewriting the image in the first display control mode based on the operation. , it is possible to suitably avoid the automatic rewriting function from becoming a factor that reduces responsiveness during operation. In this case, for example, the rewriting of the image based on the establishment of the automatic rewriting condition may be delayed until a predetermined timing after the rewriting of the image in the first display control mode is completed.

- It is also possible to make the application pattern of the first display control mode/second display control mode different depending on whether the controller unit 20 is attached to the holder 30 or removed. For example, when the controller unit 20 is attached to the holder 30, the first display control mode and the second display control mode are used together, while when the controller unit 20 is removed from the holder 30, the first display control mode and the second display control mode are used together. A configuration may be adopted in which only the control mode is applied. However, if rewriting in the first display control mode is performed continuously, the influence of afterimages tends to become stronger for the reasons described above. Therefore, it is preferable to perform refresh to remove the afterimage when the specified time has elapsed since the operation was performed.

・When adjusting the temperature and adjusting the air volume, rewriting is performed using the first display control mode, and refreshment is performed when the above specified time has elapsed since the last operation, but this is not limiting. do not have. It is also possible to vary the prescribed time depending on the type of adjustment operation. For example, when a temperature adjustment operation is performed, refreshing is performed when the first specified time has elapsed, and when an air volume adjustment operation is performed, the second specified time is shorter than the first specified time. A configuration may also be adopted in which refresh is performed when the time period has elapsed. In addition, when a temperature adjustment operation is performed, refreshing is performed when the first specified time has elapsed, and when an air volume adjustment operation is performed, a third specified time shorter than the first specified time is performed. A configuration may also be adopted in which refresh is performed when the time period has elapsed.

- In the second and third embodiments, the afterimage is removed by the first phase ST1 (inverted display) and the second phase ST2 (full brightness display), but these two phases are essential. Alternatively, one may be omitted. Furthermore, for the second phase ST2, a configuration may be adopted in which a fully darkened display is performed instead of a fully brightened display. Note that the third phase ST3 may be omitted among the four phases related to the second display control mode.

- In the second and third embodiments described above, the configuration is such that refresh is performed when a specified time has elapsed since the last adjustment operation was performed on the detailed setting screen, but the configuration is not limited to this. . For example, it is also possible to configure the detailed settings screen to refresh when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the first adjustment operation was performed. Furthermore, in place of or in addition to the above configuration, it is also possible to configure a configuration in which refreshing is performed when the number of consecutive operations reaches a predetermined number of times.

- In the second and third embodiments described above, the operation mode when the same type of operation icon (for example, the UP icon 83 and the DOWN icon 84) with the same parameter to be adjusted is operated in succession is referred to as "continuous operation". However, instead of this, the operation mode when the same operation icon is repeatedly operated may be set as "continuous operation."

- Regarding the second and third embodiments above, if the same adjustment operation as the previous operation (for example, UP operation → UP operation) is performed before the specified time has elapsed, the image is not written in the first display control mode. At the same time, if an adjustment operation different from the previous operation (for example, UP operation → DOWN operation) is performed before the specified time has elapsed, the image may be rewritten in the second display control mode. . If the same operation as the previous one is performed, the image is quickly rewritten, reducing the waiting time for the operation, and if an operation different from the previous one is performed, it is the last adjustment operation. Since this possibility is assumed to be high, user convenience can be suitably improved by taking a certain amount of time to cleanly switch images in preparation for later information confirmation and operation.

- In the second and third embodiments described above, the refresh timer counter starts measuring the specified time when a parameter adjustment operation is performed, but it is not possible to write an image triggered by a parameter adjustment operation. A configuration may also be adopted in which the refresh timer counter starts measuring the specified time when the change is completed.

- If a parameter adjustment operation is performed while the image is being rewritten in the second display control mode, the image rewriting in the second display control mode is stopped and the parameters that reflect the adjustment operation are displayed. While the image is rewritten in the first display control mode in this manner, if a menu switching operation is performed while the image is being rewritten in the second display control mode, the image is rewritten in the second display control mode. It is also possible to have a configuration in which the image is rewritten in the second display control mode by canceling the operation and displaying a menu corresponding to the menu switching operation.

- In the third embodiment, the display control mode applied to the menu switching operation and the parameter adjustment operation are different, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is possible to have a configuration in which the display control mode that is applied is different depending on the case where the display position of the operation icon is changed before and after rewriting and the case where the display position of the operation icon is not changed before and after rewrite. . Specifically, the second display control mode is applied when the display position of the operation icon is changed before and after rewriting, and the first display control mode is applied when the display position of the operation icon is not changed before and after rewriting. It may also be configured to apply. With this configuration, it is possible to suitably achieve the effect of shortening the time required for waiting for an operation and improving responsiveness, and the effect of suppressing operation icons from becoming difficult to understand due to the influence of afterimages.

<Other invention groups extracted from each of the above embodiments>
Hereinafter, the features of the invention group extracted from each of the embodiments described above will be explained, showing effects etc. as necessary. Note that in the following, for ease of understanding, configurations corresponding to the above embodiments are appropriately indicated in parentheses, etc., but the present invention is not limited to the specific configurations shown in parentheses.

<Characteristics Group A>
The following feature group A includes: ``Some air conditioners are equipped with an air conditioning controller that allows the user to perform operations such as changing the set temperature, and an air conditioner that performs air conditioning based on instructions from the air conditioning controller. In this type of air conditioner, the air conditioning controller has a display section that displays information related to the air conditioning, such as operation mode (cooling, heating, dehumidification, ventilation), air conditioning adjustment parameters (set temperature, set air volume), etc. Regarding the background technology, "In this type of air conditioning controller, for example, the above various information is kept displayed even during the period when the air conditioning controller is waiting for operation (standby)." This is advantageous in improving the user's convenience when checking the air conditioning status, etc.If the display section of the air conditioning controller is made of electronic paper, the state in which the information is displayed can be maintained. Even if convenience is improved by using electronic paper, the increase in power consumption of air conditioners can be suitably suppressed.E-paper has the advantage that it can reduce power consumption compared to other display devices such as liquid crystal displays. However, trying to increase the responsiveness when switching (changing) images in response to user operations, etc. may reduce the image quality, and trying to suppress the decline in image quality may reduce the responsiveness. Therefore, there is still room for improvement in air conditioning controllers in order to reduce power consumption and improve convenience at the same time.'' It is something that

Feature A1. An air conditioning controller (air conditioning controller 12) that can control an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) based on a user's operation,
a display unit (display 53) using electronic paper as a display medium and capable of displaying control information of the air conditioner (operation mode, temperature setting, air volume, etc.) as an image;
a display control unit (CPU 51) that performs display control of the display unit,
As a rewrite mode (display control mode) in which the image on the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit, there is a first rewrite mode (first display control mode), and a rewrite mode that is more suitable for image rewriting than the first rewrite mode. A second rewriting mode (second display control mode) is provided, which takes a long time but is less likely to leave an afterimage of the image before rewriting after rewriting the image.
The image displayed on the display section includes operation icons (for example, operation switching icon 75, temperature setting icon 77, UP icon 83, DOWN icon 84, etc.) to be operated by the user,
comprising operation detection means (touch panel 55 and touch IC 54) for detecting operation of the operation icon by the user;
As a mode of rewriting the image on the display section, a first mode in which the arrangement of the operation icons on the display section does not change before and after rewriting (for example, a mode when the UP icon 83 and the DOWN icon 84 are operated on the temperature setting screen); and a second mode in which the arrangement of the operation icons on the display section changes before and after rewriting (for example, a rewriting mode when the operation switching icon 75, temperature setting icon 77, etc. are operated on the main menu). is provided,
The display control section includes:
means for rewriting the image in the first rewriting mode when the rewriting mode of the image on the display section is the first mode;
and means for rewriting the image in the second rewriting mode when the rewriting mode of the image on the display section becomes the second mode.

Air conditioners often continue to operate under the conditions set at the start of operation, and the period during which the air conditioning controller is operated is extremely short compared to the period during which it is waiting for operation. Therefore, if the display section of the air conditioning controller is configured with electronic paper as described above, although a certain amount of power will be required to rewrite the image with operation, it will be easier to maintain the air conditioning information displayed. Power consumption can be extremely reduced. For example, compared to the case where the display section is configured with a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, a plasma display, etc., an increase in power consumption due to improved convenience can be suppressed in a preferable manner.

Various information (images) displayed on the display section will be rewritten based on user operations. Here, according to the configuration shown in feature A1, if the arrangement of the operation icons does not change before and after rewriting, the image is quickly rewritten in the first rewriting mode, thereby reducing the time required for waiting for the operation. Can be shortened. On the other hand, if the arrangement of the operation icons changes before and after rewriting, by rewriting the image neatly for a certain amount of time in the second rewriting mode, you can prevent the operation icons from becoming difficult to understand due to the influence of afterimages. It can be suppressed. Thereby, user convenience can be suitably improved.

Means A2. An air conditioning controller (air conditioning controller 12) that can control an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) based on a user's operation,
a display unit (display 53) using electronic paper as a display medium and capable of displaying control information of the air conditioner (operation mode, temperature setting, air volume, etc.) as an image;
a display control unit (CPU 51) that performs display control of the display unit,
As a rewrite mode (display control mode) in which the image on the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit, there is a first rewrite mode (first display control mode), and a rewrite mode that is more suitable for image rewriting than the first rewrite mode. A second rewriting mode (second display control mode) is provided, which takes a long time but is less likely to leave an afterimage of the image before rewriting after rewriting the image.
The image displayed on the display section includes operation icons (for example, operation switching icon 75, temperature setting icon 77, UP icon 83, DOWN icon 84, etc.) to be operated by the user,
comprising operation detection means (touch panel 55 and touch IC 54) for detecting operation of the operation icon by the user;
As the operation icons, a first operation icon for menu switching (for example, operation switching icon 75) and a second operation icon for adjusting air conditioning control parameters (for example, UP icon 83, DOWN icon 84) are provided,
The display control section includes:
means for rewriting an image in the second rewriting mode when the first operation icon is operated;
and means for rewriting an image in the first rewriting mode when the second operation icon is operated.

Various information (images) displayed on the display section will be rewritten based on user operations. Here, when comparing the case where the first operation icon for menu switching is operated and the case where the second operation icon for adjusting air conditioning control parameters is operated, the former changes the displayed image more than the latter. It is assumed that (difference between images before and after rewriting) will become noticeable. According to the configuration shown in feature A2, when the second operation icon for adjusting air conditioning control parameters is operated, that is, when the difference between images before and after rewriting becomes relatively small, the first rewriting mode is activated. By quickly rewriting the image, the time spent waiting for an operation can be shortened. On the other hand, when the first operation icon for menu switching is operated, that is, when the difference between the images before and after rewriting becomes relatively large, it takes a certain amount of time to change the image in the second rewriting mode. By rewriting the information clearly, it is possible to prevent the displayed information from becoming difficult to identify due to the influence of afterimages. Therefore, user convenience can be suitably improved.

Means A3. The second operation icon is an operation icon whose display position on the display unit is the same before and after rewriting when the image on the display unit is rewritten in response to the operation of the second operation icon, as described in feature A2. air conditioning controller.

According to the above configuration, even if the image is rewritten in the first rewriting mode, operation icons can be prevented from becoming difficult to understand due to the influence of afterimages.

Feature A4. The air conditioning controller according to feature A2 or feature A3, wherein the first operation icon is an operation icon that is hidden when the image on the display unit is rewritten in response to the operation of the first operation icon.

Even though the operation icon is hidden, the afterimage makes it appear as if the operation icon exists, which confuses the user. Therefore, as shown in feature A2, it is technically significant to have a configuration in which the second rewrite mode suppresses the influence of afterimages when the first operation icon is operated.

Feature A5. An air conditioning controller (air conditioning controller 12) that can control an air conditioner (air conditioner 11) based on a user's operation,
a display unit (display 53) using electronic paper as a display medium and capable of displaying control information of the air conditioner (operation mode, temperature setting, air volume, etc.) as an image;
a display control unit (CPU 51) that performs display control of the display unit,
As a rewrite mode (display control mode) in which the image on the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit, there is a first rewrite mode (first display control mode), and a rewrite mode that is more suitable for image rewriting than the first rewrite mode. A second rewriting mode (second display control mode) is provided, which takes a long time but is less likely to leave an afterimage of the image before rewriting after rewriting the image.
The image displayed on the display unit includes operation icons to be operated by the user (for example, UP icon 83, DOWN icon 84, etc.),
comprising an operation detection means (touch panel 55) for detecting an operation of the operation icon by a user,
As the operation icon, an operation icon for adjusting air conditioning control parameters is provided,
The display control section includes:
means for rewriting the image in the first rewriting mode when the same operation icon as in the previous operation is operated;
and means for rewriting an image in the second rewriting mode when an operation icon different from the previous operation is operated.

Various information (images) displayed on the display section will be rewritten based on user operations. Here, in the configuration shown in feature A5, the image rewriting mode is different depending on whether the same operation icon as in the previous operation is operated or when a different operation icon from the previous operation is operated. When the same operation icon as in the previous operation is operated, the image is quickly rewritten in the first rewrite mode, thereby shortening the time required for waiting for the operation. In this case, even if an afterimage of the previously displayed operation icon remains, the operation icon will not become difficult to understand due to the influence of the afterimage. On the other hand, if an operation icon that is different from the previous operation is operated, the second rewrite mode takes a certain amount of time to rewrite the image neatly, so that the operation icon is difficult to understand due to the afterimage. You can prevent it from happening. Thereby, user convenience can be suitably improved.

Note that each of the technical ideas shown in Features A2 to A5 may be applied to Feature A1.

<Characteristics Group B>
The following feature group B is based on the following: "According to an image display device whose display screen is made of electronic paper, the power consumption when maintaining the image display state is significantly lower than that of a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, a plasma display, etc." ``However, although electronic paper is superior in terms of reducing power consumption, due to its structure, the image is rewritten due to the movement of colored particles, etc.'' , the time required to rewrite an image tends to be longer than that of a liquid crystal display, etc.Also, even after rewriting an image, the previous image may remain as an afterimage, and the effect of such afterimage is large. As a result, the discrimination power of the image (information) after rewriting may deteriorate.In recent years, various efforts have been made to improve the rewriting speed while suppressing the decline in image discrimination power. This was done in light of the background and issues that "there is still room for improvement in the structure."

Feature B1. a display unit (display 53) using electronic paper as a display medium;
a display control unit (CPU 51) that performs display control of the display unit,
The image displayed on the display section is rewritten by applying a voltage to the electrodes (electrodes 106, 107) of the electronic paper, while the rewritten image is rewritten without applying a voltage to the electrodes (which consumes power). An image display device (controller unit 20) that can be maintained without
The display control section includes:
a rewriting unit (a function for executing the processing of steps S505 and S518 in the CPU 51) that rewrites the image on the display unit based on a user's operation without going through a predetermined refresh display;
When a predetermined condition (for example, a predetermined time has elapsed) is satisfied without any user operation after the rewriting of the image by the rewriting means is performed, the image being displayed on the display unit is refreshed by the predetermined refresh. An image display device having a re-display unit (a function for executing the process of step S603 in the CPU 51) for re-displaying the image after displaying the image.

According to the configuration shown in feature B1, if the user performs an operation after the operation and prior to the establishment of the predetermined condition, the image on the display unit is rewritten by the rewriting means without going through a predetermined refresh display. It happens. In this way, the responsiveness of image rewriting is improved by quickly executing the operation → image rewriting and shortening the time required to wait for the operation. Here, if rewriting without going through a predetermined refresh display (hereinafter also referred to as direct rewriting) occurs due to continuous execution of operations, the image that was displayed earlier is Even after the image is rewritten, it remains as an afterimage, and it is assumed that as such afterimage increases, it becomes difficult to identify the image. In addition, during operation, the user will remember the image before rewriting, so it may be possible to identify the image if there is a certain amount of afterimage, but as time passes, the user's memory It is assumed that identification based on the memory becomes difficult after the memory fades. In this regard, as described above, if a predetermined condition is satisfied without any user operation after the rewriting of the image by the rewriting means is executed, the image being displayed is redisplayed after a predetermined refresh display. With this configuration, identification can be made easy even when checking images after the fact. With such a configuration, it is possible to improve the rewriting speed while suppressing a decrease in image discrimination ability.

Feature B2. The image display device according to feature B1, wherein the predetermined condition is satisfied when a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds) has elapsed since the rewriting of the image by the rewriting means is performed, and the redisplay by the redisplaying means is performed. .

By redisplaying the image based on the fact that a predetermined period of time has passed since the image was rewritten (completion of the operation), it is possible to make it difficult for the user to feel that the redisplay is bothersome. Thereby, the effect shown in feature B1 can be suitably exhibited.

Feature B3. comprising a time measuring means (a refresh timer counter) for measuring the time that has passed since the rewriting of the image by the rewriting means was performed;
The redisplay means is configured to determine that the predetermined condition is satisfied when the time measured by the time measurement means reaches the predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds), and perform the redisplay;
Initial value setting means (a function for executing the process of step S508 in the CPU 51) for setting an initial value in the time measuring means when the image is rewritten by the rewriting means based on an operation by a user. The image display device according to feature B1.

By redisplaying the image based on the fact that a predetermined period of time has passed since the image was rewritten (completion of the operation), it is possible to make it difficult for the user to feel that the redisplay is bothersome. Thereby, the effect shown in feature B1 can be suitably exhibited.

Furthermore, when operations are performed consecutively, the number of consecutive operations may vary. Therefore, as shown in feature B3, by setting an initial value to the time measurement means each time an image is rewritten, redisplay (predetermined refresh display) is executed before the continuous operation is completed. This can be suitably suppressed.

Regarding feature B2 and feature B3, the statement "the predetermined condition is satisfied when a predetermined time has elapsed since the rewriting of the image by the rewriting means" was replaced with "the predetermined condition is satisfied after the user's operation." It is also possible to specify that the predetermined condition is met when a certain amount of time has elapsed.

Feature B4. The predetermined refresh display has a feature that includes at least one of an inversion display in which the printed pattern (for example, black and white) of the displayed image is inverted, and an erase display (full brightness or full darkness) in which the displayed image is erased. The image display device according to any one of B1 to B3.

When the display section is configured with electronic paper, as shown in Feature B4, afterimages can be suitably avoided by displaying a printed pattern (brightness/darkness pattern) inverted or erased as a predetermined refresh display. can be reduced.

Feature B5. As a rewrite mode (display control mode) in which the image on the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit, there is a first rewrite mode (first display control mode), and a rewrite mode that is more suitable for image rewriting than the first rewrite mode. A second rewriting mode (second display control mode) is provided, which takes a long time but is less likely to leave an afterimage of the image before rewriting after rewriting the image.
The rewriting means is a first rewriting means that rewrites the image in the first rewriting mode when the same operation as the previous operation is performed before the predetermined condition is satisfied;
Features B1 to B4 include second rewriting means for rewriting the image in the second rewriting mode when an operation different from the previous operation is performed before the predetermined condition is satisfied. The image display device according to any one of the above.

If the same operation as the previous operation is performed before the predetermined condition is met, the image is quickly rewritten to shorten the waiting time for the operation, and an operation different from the previous operation is performed before the predetermined condition is met. If this is done, it is assumed that it is likely to be the last operation, so by taking a certain amount of time to cleanly rewrite the image and preparing for later information confirmation → operation, the user's Convenience can be suitably improved.

Note that the configuration shown in this feature is defined as "a rewrite mode (display control mode) in which the image on the display section is rewritten by the display control section, a first rewrite mode (first display control mode), and a first rewrite mode (first display control mode)". A second rewriting mode (second display control mode) is provided, which takes longer time to rewrite an image than the rewriting mode, but is less likely to leave an afterimage of the image before rewriting after the image is rewritten. The rewriting means is a first rewriting means that rewrites the image in the first rewriting mode when the same type of operation as the previous operation is performed before the predetermined condition is satisfied; Features B1 to B4 include second rewriting means for rewriting the image in the second rewriting mode when an operation different from the previous operation is performed before the predetermined condition is satisfied. The image display device according to any one of the above. In this case, "the same kind" refers to not only the same operation (for example, an operation to add a predetermined air conditioning parameter → an operation to add), but also a common operation in that it is an operation that adjusts a predetermined air conditioning parameter. It includes operations in which the effect of something is reversed (for example, addition operation → subtraction operation, or subtraction operation → addition operation).

Feature B6. As objects to be operated by the user, a first operation object (temperature adjustment button icon) and a second operation object (return button icon) whose control items (actions) are different from those of the first operation object are provided.
The first rewriting unit is configured to rewrite the first rewriting unit when the first operation target is operated again before the predetermined condition is satisfied after the image is rewritten based on the operation of the first operation target. It is configured to rewrite images in replacement mode,
The second rewriting means performs the second rewriting when the second operation target is operated after the image is rewritten based on the operation of the first operation target and before the predetermined condition is satisfied. The image display device according to feature B5, wherein the image display device is configured to rewrite the image in the mode.

When the operation is executed in the order of the first operation target → the first operation target, the image is quickly rewritten to shorten the waiting time for the operation, and the operation is executed in the order of the first operation target → the second operation target. If this occurs, the effect shown in feature B5 can be suitably achieved by taking a certain amount of time to cleanly rewrite the image in preparation for later information confirmation and operation.

Feature B7. The display control unit is configured to, when an operation is performed by a user during the refresh display by the redisplay means, cancel the refresh display and rewrite the image based on the operation. The image display device according to any one of features B1 to B6.

As shown in feature B1, in a configuration in which redisplay (refresh display) is performed after waiting for a predetermined condition to be satisfied after an operation is completed, if the predetermined condition is satisfied before the operation is completed, the operation is disabled until the redisplay is completed. There is a concern that the redisplay function may give the impression that it is bothersome to users. Therefore, if the user performs an operation during refresh display, it is preferable to stop the refresh display and rewrite the image based on the operation, thereby suppressing the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience.

Feature B8. Features B1 to B7, wherein the rewriting means is configured to rewrite images only for a specific image displayed in a predetermined area of the display unit among the images displayed on the display unit. The image display device according to any one of the above.

In a configuration in which the images rewritten by the rewriting means are limited to images (specific images) displayed in a predetermined area on the display screen, the identifiability may be reduced when afterimages accumulate due to continuous operations. There is concern that this will become noticeable. By applying the technical idea shown in feature B1 etc. to such a configuration, a practically preferable configuration can be realized.

Feature B9. a display unit (display 53) using electronic paper as a display medium;
a display control unit (CPU 51) that performs display control of the display unit,
The image displayed on the display section is rewritten by applying a voltage to the electrodes (electrodes 106, 107) of the electronic paper, while the rewritten image is rewritten without applying a voltage to the electrodes (which consumes power). An image display device (controller unit 20) that can be maintained without
The display control section includes:
rewriting means for rewriting the image on the display unit based on a predetermined operation (temperature adjustment operation) by a user without going through a predetermined refresh display;
If a predetermined condition is satisfied without the predetermined operation being performed after the rewriting of the image by the rewriting means is performed based on the predetermined operation, the image being displayed on the display unit is changed to An image display device comprising a redisplay means for redisplaying the image after a refresh display.

According to the configuration shown in feature B9, if the user performs the predetermined operation after the predetermined operation and prior to the establishment of the predetermined condition, the image on the display unit is directly rewritten by the rewriting means. . In this way, by quickly performing a predetermined operation→image rewriting and shortening the time required for waiting for an operation, the responsiveness of image rewriting is improved. Here, if direct rewriting occurs continuously by performing a predetermined operation in succession, the previously displayed image will remain as an afterimage even after the image is rewritten, and such afterimages will occur. It is assumed that as the number increases, it becomes difficult to identify images. In addition, during operation, the user will remember the image before rewriting, so it may be possible to identify the image if there is a certain amount of afterimage, but as time passes, the user's memory will deteriorate. It is assumed that identification based on the memory becomes difficult after the memory fades. In this regard, as mentioned above, if a predetermined condition is met without a predetermined operation by the user after the rewriting of the image by the rewriting means is performed, the image being displayed will be rewritten after a predetermined refresh display. If the configuration is such that it is displayed, identification can be made easy even when checking the image after the fact. With such a configuration, it is possible to improve the rewriting speed while suppressing a decrease in image discrimination ability.

Note that each of the technical ideas shown in features B2 to B8 may be applied to this feature B9.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10... Air conditioner, 11... Air conditioner, 12... Air conditioning controller, 20... Controller unit, 21a... Display surface, 30... Holder, 51... CPU, 52... Graphic IC, 53... Display, 54... Touch IC, 55... Touch panel , 62...Internal power supply, 75...Operation switching icon, 76...Fan switching icon, 77...Temperature setting icon, 83...UP icon, 84...DOWN icon, 85...Home icon, ST1...1st phase, ST2...2nd phase , ST3...Third phase, ST4...Fourth phase.

Claims (12)

An air conditioning controller capable of controlling an air conditioner based on user operations,
a display section that uses electronic paper as a display medium and can display information regarding air conditioning as an image;
and a display control unit that controls display of the display unit,
Image rewriting modes in which the image on the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit include a first rewriting mode and a second rewriting mode in which the image before rewriting is less likely to remain as an afterimage than in the first rewriting mode. is provided,
The display control section includes:
an operation determining means for determining whether a predetermined operation has been performed by the user;
a first rewriting unit that rewrites the image displayed on the display unit to another image in the first rewriting mode when the operation determining unit determines that the predetermined operation has been performed;
automatic rewriting condition determining means for determining whether a predetermined automatic rewriting condition is satisfied;
rewriting the image displayed on the display unit with another image in the second rewriting mode when the automatic rewriting condition determining means determines that the predetermined automatic rewriting condition is satisfied; An air conditioning controller having two rewriting means. The second rewriting mode is an image rewriting mode in which the image displayed on the display unit is rewritten to the next image after a predetermined refresh display for removing afterimages,
The air conditioning controller according to claim 1, wherein the first rewriting mode is an image rewriting mode in which the image displayed on the display unit is rewritten to the next image without going through the predetermined refresh display. 3. The predetermined refresh display includes at least one of an inversion display that inverts the print pattern of the image displayed on the display section and an erase display that erases the image displayed on the display section. air conditioning controller. The automatic rewriting condition determination means is configured to determine whether or not the automatic rewriting condition determination means determines whether or not the automatic rewriting condition determination means determines whether or not the automatic rewriting condition determination means has determined whether or not the automatic rewriting condition determination means has determined whether or not the automatic rewriting condition determination means has determined whether or not the automatic rewriting condition has been determined. It is configured to determine that a first automatic rewriting condition, which is a predetermined automatic rewriting condition, is satisfied,
The second rewriting means changes the image displayed on the display unit into the second rewriting mode when the automatic rewriting condition determining means determines that the first automatic rewriting condition is satisfied. The air conditioning controller according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising means for rewriting the predetermined standby image to the predetermined standby image. Equipped with an environmental information acquisition means for acquiring environmental information correlated to the indoor environment,
The automatic rewrite condition determination means is configured to determine that a second automatic rewrite condition, which is the predetermined automatic rewrite condition, is satisfied when a predetermined change occurs in the indoor environment,
The second rewriting means changes the image displayed on the display unit to correspond to the current indoor environment when the automatic rewriting condition determining means determines that the second automatic rewriting condition is satisfied. The air conditioning controller according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising means for rewriting the image in the second rewriting mode. Equipped with an environmental information acquisition means for acquiring environmental information correlated to the indoor environment,
When the driving parameters of the air conditioner are changed based on a user's operation, the first rewriting means is configured to write an image that is displayed on the display unit and that is correlated with the driving parameters before the change. comprising means for rewriting the image in the first rewriting mode to an image correlated with the changed driving parameters;
The second rewriting means is configured to update the image displayed on the display unit when the driving parameters changed based on the operation are changed based on the environmental information acquired by the environmental information acquiring means. Claims 1 to 5, further comprising means for rewriting, in the second rewriting mode, an image correlated with the drive parameters before the change to an image corresponding to the drive parameters after the change. The air conditioning controller according to any one of the above. If the predetermined operation is performed at a timing when the predetermined automatic rewriting condition is satisfied, the image rewriting unit is configured to give priority to rewriting the image by the first rewriting means based on the predetermined operation. The air conditioning controller according to any one of claims 1 to 6. Claims 1 to 7 further comprising a regulating means for regulating the rewriting of the image by the second rewriting means until a predetermined regulation period has elapsed after the image has been rewritten by the first rewriting means. The air conditioning controller according to any one of the above. The predetermined operation includes a first operation that is an adjustment operation of parameters for air conditioning control and a second operation that is an operation menu switching operation,
If the first operation is performed while the image is being rewritten in the second rewriting mode, the rewriting of the image in the second rewriting mode is stopped and the image corresponding to the first operation is displayed. On the other hand, if the second operation is performed while the image is being rewritten in the second rewriting mode, the second rewriting mode is used. Any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the image is rewritten in the second rewriting mode by stopping image rewriting and displaying an image corresponding to the second operation. or the air conditioning controller described in one of the above. The image displayed on the display unit includes an operation icon to be operated by the user,
The image rewriting mode on the display section includes a first mode in which the operation icon is displayed at the same position on the display section before and after rewriting, and a first mode in which the arrangement of the operation icon on the display section changes before and after rewriting. A second aspect is provided,
The display control section includes:
means for rewriting the image in the first rewriting mode when the rewriting mode of the image on the display section is the first mode;
10. Any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising means for rewriting the image in the second rewriting mode when the rewriting mode of the image on the display section is the second mode. Air conditioning controller as described in. An air conditioning controller capable of controlling an air conditioner based on user operations,
a display section that uses electronic paper as a display medium and can display information regarding air conditioning as an image;
and a display control unit that controls display of the display unit,
The image rewriting mode in which the image on the display unit is rewritten by the display control unit is the first rewriting mode, and the time required to rewrite the image is longer than that in the first rewriting mode. A second rewriting mode is provided in which images are less likely to remain as afterimages.
The image displayed on the display unit includes an operation icon to be operated by the user,
The rewriting mode of the image on the display section includes a first mode in which the arrangement of the operation icons on the display section does not change before and after rewriting, and a second mode in which the arrangement of the operation icons on the display section changes before and after rewriting. Aspects are provided,
The display control section includes:
means for rewriting the image in the first rewriting mode when the rewriting mode of the image on the display section is the first mode;
and means for rewriting the image in the second rewriting mode when the rewriting mode of the image on the display section becomes the second mode. a controller unit provided with an operation section operated by a user, the display section, and the display control section;
a holder that removably holds the controller unit;
The air conditioning controller according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the display section and the display control section of the controller unit are configured to be supplied with power from an internal power source of the controller unit.

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