A multi-connected air conditioner and its control method

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a multi-connected air conditioner and a control method therefor. The multi-connected air conditioner includes: a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, a first gas-side pipe, a second gas-side pipe, and a liquid-side pipe. The first gas-side pipe, the second gas-side pipe, and the liquid-side pipe are respectively connected between the indoor side and the outdoor side, and the first gas-side pipe is connected to the exhaust end of the compressor; it further includes at least one indoor unit, and the indoor unit is connected between the second gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe; the indoor unit includes a first indoor heat exchanger and a first pipeline, the first indoor heat exchanger is arranged on the first pipeline, and one end of the first pipeline is connected to the second gas-side pipe and the other end is connected to the liquid-side pipe; a first throttling device is arranged on the first pipeline; it further includes at least one heat storage module, and the heat storage module is connected between the second gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe. According to the present disclosure, the heat extraction from the indoor due to defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger by using the indoor unit is effectively avoided, which is likely to cause fluctuations in the indoor temperature and discomfort to the human body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the technical field of multi-connected air conditioners, and particularly to a multi-connected air conditioner and a control method thereof. Background Art

[0002] With the formulation of national environmental protection policies and the enhancement of national environmental protection awareness, air conditioner heating has been increasingly recognized by the public. However, the problem that the defrosting of air conditioner heating affects indoor comfort has not been solved.

[0003] Currently, when the existing air conditioner system operates in heating mode, frost will form on the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger due to its low temperature, which affects the heat exchange capacity of the heat exchanger. To improve the heat exchange effect of the heat exchanger, the current air conditioner systems are basically equipped with a control for periodically reversing the four-way valve for defrosting. However, during the defrosting process of valve reversal, the indoor side is the low-pressure side. Although the indoor fan stops running, heat still needs to be taken from the indoor to provide the heat required for defrosting. This greatly affects the indoor comfort during the defrosting process. In addition, since the indoor fan stops running during the defrosting process, the heat exchanger cannot fully exchange heat, and there will be a large amount of liquid refrigerant. These liquid refrigerants can flow into the compressor through the return gas pipeline, increasing the risk of liquid slugging in the compressor.

[0004] Due to the technical problems in the existing modular full-function multi-connected air conditioners, such as taking heat from the indoor during defrosting, which easily causes indoor temperature fluctuations and discomfort to the human body, the present disclosure studies and designs a multi-connected air conditioner and a control method thereof. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, the technical problem to be solved by the present disclosure is to overcome the defect that the existing modular full-function multi-connected air conditioners take heat from the indoor during defrosting, which easily causes indoor temperature fluctuations and discomfort to the human body, so as to provide a multi-connected air conditioner and a control method thereof.

[0006] To solve the above problems, the present disclosure provides a multi-connected air conditioner, which includes:

[0007] A compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, a first gas-side pipe, a second gas-side pipe, and a liquid-side pipe. The first gas-side pipe, the second gas-side pipe, and the liquid-side pipe are respectively connected between the indoor side and the outdoor side, and the first gas-side pipe is connected to the exhaust end of the compressor;

[0008] It further includes at least one indoor unit, which is connected between the second gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe; the indoor unit includes a first indoor heat exchanger and a first pipeline. The first indoor heat exchanger is arranged on the first pipeline, and one end of the first pipeline is connected to the second gas-side pipe and the other end is connected to the liquid-side pipe; a first throttling device is arranged on the first pipeline;

[0009] It further includes at least one heat storage module, and the heat storage module is connected between the second gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe.

[0010] In some embodiments, the heat storage module includes a heat accumulator and a heat storage pipeline. The heat accumulator and a third throttling device are arranged on the heat storage pipeline. One end of the heat storage pipeline communicates with the second gas-side pipe, and the other end communicates with the liquid-side pipe.

[0011] In some embodiments, it further includes at least one hot water module, and the hot water module is arranged between the first gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe and / or the hot water module is arranged between the second gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe.

[0012] In some embodiments, when the hot water module is connected between the first gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe: the hot water module includes a water tank and a fourth pipeline. The water tank is arranged on the fourth pipeline. One end of the fourth pipeline communicates with the liquid-side pipe, and the other end communicates with the first gas-side pipe through a fifth pipeline; or,

[0013] When the hot water module is connected between the second gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe: the hot water module includes a water tank and a fourth pipeline. The water tank is arranged on the fourth pipeline. One end of the fourth pipeline communicates with the liquid-side pipe, and the other end of the fourth pipeline also communicates with the second gas-side pipe through a sixth pipeline; or,

[0014] When the hot water module is connected between the first gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe and the hot water module is connected between the second gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe: the hot water module includes a water tank and a fourth pipeline. The water tank is arranged on the fourth pipeline. One end of the fourth pipeline communicates with the liquid-side pipe, and the other end communicates with the first gas-side pipe through a fifth pipeline. The other end of the fourth pipeline also communicates with the second gas-side pipe through a sixth pipeline.

[0015] In some embodiments, a fourth throttling device is arranged on the fourth pipeline, a first control valve is further arranged on the fifth pipeline, and a second control valve is further arranged on the sixth pipeline; and / or, a first one-way valve that only allows fluid to flow from the first gas-side pipe to the fourth pipeline is further arranged on the fifth pipeline, and a second one-way valve that only allows fluid to flow from the fourth pipeline to the second gas-side pipe is further arranged on the sixth pipeline.

[0016] In some embodiments, it further includes at least one hot water generator module. The hot water generator module can produce hot water. The hot water generator module is arranged between the first gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe and / or the hot water generator module is arranged between the second gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe.

[0017] In some embodiments, when the hot water generator module is disposed between the first gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe: the hot water generator module includes a heat exchange component and a seventh pipeline, the heat exchange component is capable of generating hot water through heat exchange, the heat exchange component is disposed on the seventh pipeline, and one end of the seventh pipeline is communicated with the liquid-side pipe, and the other end is communicated with the first gas-side pipe through an eighth pipeline; or,

[0018] when the hot water generator module is disposed between the second gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe: the hot water generator module includes a heat exchange component and a seventh pipeline, the heat exchange component is capable of generating hot water through heat exchange, the heat exchange component is disposed on the seventh pipeline, and one end of the seventh pipeline is communicated with the liquid-side pipe, and the other end of the seventh pipeline is further communicated with the second gas-side pipe through a ninth pipeline; or,

[0019] when the hot water generator module is disposed between the first gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe and when the hot water generator module is disposed between the second gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe: the hot water generator module includes a heat exchange component and a seventh pipeline, the heat exchange component is capable of generating hot water through heat exchange, the heat exchange component is disposed on the seventh pipeline, and one end of the seventh pipeline is communicated with the liquid-side pipe, and the other end is communicated with the first gas-side pipe through an eighth pipeline, and the other end of the seventh pipeline is further communicated with the second gas-side pipe through a ninth pipeline.

[0020] In some embodiments, a sixth throttling device is disposed on the seventh pipeline, a third control valve is further disposed on the eighth pipeline, and a fourth control valve is further disposed on the ninth pipeline; and / or, a third one-way valve that only allows fluid to flow from the first gas-side pipe to the seventh pipeline is further disposed on the eighth pipeline, and a fourth one-way valve that only allows fluid to flow from the seventh pipeline to the second gas-side pipe is further disposed on the ninth pipeline.

[0021] In some embodiments, a first four-way valve and a second four-way valve are further included, wherein a first end of the first four-way valve is communicated with a fifth end of the second four-way valve and are jointly communicated with an exhaust end of the compressor;

[0022] a sixth end of the second four-way valve is communicated with the outdoor heat exchanger, and the other end of the outdoor heat exchanger can be communicated with the first gas-side pipe;

[0023] a third end of the first four-way valve is communicated with the second gas-side pipe;

[0024] a second end and a fourth end of the first four-way valve are communicated with a seventh end and an eighth end of the second four-way valve and are jointly communicated with a suction end of the compressor.

[0025] The present disclosure also provides a control method for a multi-connected air conditioner as described in any one of the preceding items, which includes:

[0026] A detection step for detecting the operating mode of the air conditioner;

[0027] A judgment step for judging whether the heat storage module is connected to the air conditioner system;

[0028] A control step for controlling the heat storage module to release heat for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger when the heat storage module is connected to the air conditioner system and the operating mode of the air conditioner is the defrosting mode.

[0029] In some embodiments, when there are also a first four-way valve and a second four-way valve, the control step controls the first end and the second end of the first four-way valve to communicate, and the third end and the fourth end to communicate; the control step controls the fifth end and the sixth end of the second four-way valve to communicate, and the seventh end and the eighth end to communicate;

[0030] When there are a heat accumulator, a heat storage pipeline, and a third throttling device, open the third throttling device.

[0031] In some embodiments, when there is a hot water module:

[0032] The judgment step is further used to judge whether the hot water module is connected to the air conditioner system;

[0033] The control step is further used to control the hot water module to release heat for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger when the hot water module is connected to the air conditioner system, the operating mode of the air conditioner is the defrosting mode, and the heat storage module is not connected to the air conditioner system, or the heat storage module is connected to the air conditioner system but the heat storage module exits abnormally.

[0034] In some embodiments, when there are also a first four-way valve and a second four-way valve, the control step controls the first end and the second end of the first four-way valve to communicate, and the third end and the fourth end to communicate; the control step controls the fifth end and the sixth end of the second four-way valve to communicate, and the seventh end and the eighth end to communicate;

[0035] When the hot water module includes a water tank, a fifth throttling device, a first control valve, and a second control valve, open the fifth throttling device, close the first control valve, and simultaneously open the second control valve.

[0036] In some embodiments, when the hot water module includes a water tank and a fourth pipeline:

[0037] The judgment step is further used to judge whether the indoor unit is connected to the air conditioner system;

[0038] The control step is also used to control the indoor unit to release heat for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger when the indoor unit is connected to the air conditioning system, the operating mode of the air conditioner is the defrosting mode, and the hot water module is not connected to the air conditioning system or the hot water module is connected to the air conditioning system but the water temperature in the water tank does not meet the defrosting temperature.

[0039] In some embodiments, it further includes a first four-way valve and a second four-way valve. The control step controls the first end and the second end of the first four-way valve to be connected, and the third end and the fourth end to be connected. The control step controls the fifth end and the sixth end of the second four-way valve to be connected, and the seventh end and the eighth end to be connected; the first throttling device is opened.

[0040] A multi-connected air conditioner and its control method provided by the present disclosure have the following beneficial effects:

[0041] 1. By connecting and arranging the first and second gas-side pipes and the liquid-side pipe between the indoor and outdoor units, and arranging the heat storage module between the second gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe, the present disclosure can connect the heat storage module when the outdoor heat exchanger of the air conditioner needs to be defrosted, and provide heat through the heat storage module, effectively avoiding taking heat from the indoor due to defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger by the indoor unit, which easily causes indoor temperature fluctuations and discomfort to the human body. It solves the problem in the prior art that when the air conditioner defrosts, it takes heat from the indoor, easily causes indoor temperature fluctuations, and causes discomfort to the human body. And it can also solve the problem that a large amount of liquid refrigerant is generated due to the indoor fan stopping operation during the defrosting process and the heat exchanger not being able to fully exchange heat. The air conditioning system and its defrosting control method proposed by the present disclosure can give full play to the functions of the existing devices on the basis of not changing the original devices of the system, freely select the defrosting form, can speed up the defrosting speed, improve indoor thermal comfort, and improve user satisfaction.

[0042] 2. By connecting the hot water module and the hot water generator module, the present disclosure can further effectively defrost the outdoor heat exchanger by turning on the hot water module or the hot water generator module when the heat storage module is not turned on or the heat storage capacity of the heat storage module is not sufficient to defrost the outdoor heat exchanger, further effectively solving the problem that when the air conditioner defrosts, it takes heat from the indoor, easily causes indoor temperature fluctuations, and causes discomfort to the human body. The present disclosure proposes an air conditioning system and its control method that can have multiple defrosting modes according to different devices connected to the system. Some devices can provide the heat required for defrosting during the defrosting process, avoid taking heat from the indoor during the defrosting process, speed up the defrosting speed, and improve indoor thermal comfort. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] Figure 1 is a system diagram of a multi-connected air conditioner with multiple defrosting modes of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 2It is a schematic diagram of the systematic defrost control of the multi-connected air conditioner of the present disclosure.

[0045] The reference numerals are shown as:

[0046] 1. Compressor; 1a. Exhaust end; 1b. Suction end; 2. Outdoor heat exchanger; 31. First gas-side pipe; 32. Second gas-side pipe; 33. Liquid-side pipe; 41. First four-way valve; 42. Second four-way valve; D1. First end; C1. Second end; E1. Third end; S1. Fourth end; D2. Fifth end; C2. Sixth end; E2. Seventh end; S2. Eighth end; 51. First control valve; 52. Second control valve; 53. Third control valve; 54. Fourth control valve; 55. First check valve; 56. Second check valve; 57. Third check valve; 58. Fourth check valve; 61. Indoor unit; 611. First indoor heat exchanger; 62. Heat storage module; 621. Heat accumulator; 71. First throttling device; 73. Third throttling device; 74. Fourth throttling device; 75. Fifth throttling device; 76. Outdoor throttling element; 77. Subcooling electronic expansion valve; 8. Hot water module; 81. Water tank; 9. Hot water generator module; 91. Heat exchange assembly; 101. First pipeline; 103. Heat storage pipeline; 104. Fourth pipeline; 105. Fifth pipeline; 106. Sixth pipeline; 107. Seventh pipeline; 108. Eighth pipeline; 109. Ninth pipeline; 11. Subcooler; 12. First large valve; 13. Second large valve; 14. Small valve. Detailed implementation manners

[0047] As Figure 1-2 shown, the present disclosure provides a multi-connected air conditioner, which includes:

[0048] A compressor 1, an outdoor heat exchanger 2, a first gas-side pipe 31, a second gas-side pipe 32 and a liquid-side pipe 33, wherein the first gas-side pipe 31, the second gas-side pipe 32 and the liquid-side pipe 33 are respectively connected between the indoor side and the outdoor side, and the first gas-side pipe 31 is connected to the exhaust end 1a of the compressor 1;

[0049] It further includes at least one indoor unit 61, and one indoor unit 61 is connected between the second gas-side pipe 32 and the liquid-side pipe 33; the indoor unit 61 includes a first indoor heat exchanger 611 and a first pipeline 101, the first indoor heat exchanger 611 is arranged on the first pipeline 101, and one end of the first pipeline 101 is connected to the second gas-side pipe 32 and the other end is connected to the liquid-side pipe 33; a first throttling device 71 is arranged on the first pipeline 101;

[0050] It further includes at least one heat storage module 62, and the heat storage module 62 is connected between the second gas-side pipe 32 and the liquid-side pipe 33.

[0051] In view of the above situation, the present disclosure proposes an air conditioning system and its control method that can have multiple defrosting modes according to different devices connected to the system. Some devices can provide the heat required for defrosting during the defrosting process, avoiding taking heat from the indoor environment, accelerating the defrosting speed, and improving indoor thermal comfort.

[0052] The present disclosure is provided with first and second gas-side pipes and a liquid-side pipe connected between the indoor and outdoor units, and a heat storage module is arranged between the second gas-side pipe and the liquid-side pipe. When the outdoor heat exchanger of the air conditioner needs to be defrosted, the heat storage module is switched on, and heat is provided by the heat storage module. This effectively avoids taking heat from the indoor unit for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger, which is likely to cause fluctuations in the indoor temperature and discomfort to the human body. The present disclosure solves the problems in the prior art that taking heat from the indoor environment during air conditioner defrosting is likely to cause fluctuations in the indoor temperature and discomfort to the human body. Moreover, it also solves the problem that a large amount of liquid refrigerant is generated due to the indoor fan stopping operation during the defrosting process and the heat exchanger being unable to exchange heat fully. The air conditioning system and its defrosting control method proposed in the present disclosure can give full play to the functions of existing devices without changing the original devices of the system, freely select the defrosting form, accelerate the defrosting speed, improve indoor thermal comfort, and enhance user satisfaction.

[0053] In some embodiments, the heat storage module 62 includes a heat accumulator 621 and a heat storage pipeline 103. The heat accumulator 621 and a third throttling device 73 are arranged on the heat storage pipeline 103. One end of the heat storage pipeline 103 is connected to the second gas-side pipe 32, and the other end is connected to the liquid-side pipe 33. When the outdoor unit needs to operate in defrosting mode, the valve of the ordinary heating indoor unit is closed, and the heat storage defrosting module provides heat for defrosting, so that heat is not taken from the indoor environment, improving indoor comfort.

[0054] The heat storage defrosting module can be selectively installed. If the main control of the air conditioning system detects that there is no heat storage defrosting module connected to the system, ordinary indoor unit defrosting is performed during defrosting; when it is detected that there is a heat storage defrosting module connected, the system operates according to the established heat storage defrosting control logic, and heat storage defrosting is performed during defrosting. When the heat storage defrosting fails to complete defrosting, the system performs ordinary indoor unit defrosting operation.

[0055] In some embodiments, at least one hot water module 8 is further included, and the hot water module 8 is connected between the first gas-side pipe 31 and the liquid-side pipe 33, and / or the hot water module 8 is connected between the second gas-side pipe 32 and the liquid-side pipe 33.

[0056] In some embodiments, when the hot water module 8 is connected between the first gas-side pipe 31 and the liquid-side pipe 33: the hot water module 8 includes a water tank 81 and a fourth pipeline 104. The water tank 81 is arranged on the fourth pipeline 104. One end of the fourth pipeline 104 communicates with the liquid-side pipe 33, and the other end communicates with the first gas-side pipe 31 through a fifth pipeline 105; or,

[0057] When the hot water module 8 is connected between the second gas-side pipe 32 and the liquid-side pipe 33: the hot water module 8 includes a water tank 81 and a fourth pipeline 104. The water tank 81 is arranged on the fourth pipeline 104. One end of the fourth pipeline 104 communicates with the liquid-side pipe 33, and the other end of the fourth pipeline 104 also communicates with the second gas-side pipe 32 through a sixth pipeline 106; or,

[0058] When the hot water module 8 is connected between the first gas-side pipe 31 and the liquid-side pipe 33 and the hot water module 8 is connected between the second gas-side pipe 32 and the liquid-side pipe 33: the hot water module 8 includes a water tank 81 and a fourth pipeline 104. The water tank 81 is arranged on the fourth pipeline 104. One end of the fourth pipeline 104 communicates with the liquid-side pipe 33, and the other end communicates with the first gas-side pipe 31 through a fifth pipeline 105. The other end of the fourth pipeline 104 also communicates with the second gas-side pipe 32 through a sixth pipeline 106. (The other end of the fourth pipeline is the end where it is connected to the fifth pipeline, and the other end of the fourth pipeline is also the end where it is connected to the sixth pipeline).

[0059] No matter which mode the system operates in, domestic hot water can be provided. After the high-temperature and high-pressure gas is discharged from the compressor, it passes through the oil separator and enters the domestic hot water module through the first large valve 12 of the gas-side pipe (high pressure). It enters the water tank through the solenoid valve A to heat the domestic hot water.

[0060] (1) When there is only a demand for making hot water in the system, after the refrigerant heats the hot water, it passes through the small valve of the liquid-side pipe, goes to the outdoor unit heat exchanger to evaporate and absorb heat, and then returns to the compressor through the four-way valve.

[0061] (2) When there are demands for refrigeration and making hot water in the system, after the refrigerant heats the hot water, it goes to the indoor unit with refrigeration demand to evaporate and absorb heat, and then returns to the compressor. Or it goes to the indoor unit heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger to evaporate and absorb heat together, and then returns to the compressor (which way to choose can be determined according to the total demands of making hot water and refrigeration).

[0062] (3) When there are demands for heating and making hot water in the system, a part of the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor goes to the hot water module to heat the hot water, and a part condenses and releases heat on the indoor side, and then returns to the outdoor unit to evaporate and then returns to the compressor.

[0063] When a hot water module is connected to the system, the main controller of the air conditioning system executes the hot water function operation according to the hot water temperature and hot water volume requirements set by the user. If the hot water module is not connected to the system, the system does not have this function, which has no impact on other functions connected to the system, and other functions can be normally realized.

[0064] In some embodiments, a fourth throttling device 74 is provided on the fourth pipeline 104, a first control valve 51 is further provided on the fifth pipeline 105, and a second control valve 52 is further provided on the sixth pipeline 106; and / or, a first check valve 55 that only allows fluid to flow from the first gas side pipe 31 to the fourth pipeline 104 is further provided on the fifth pipeline 105, and a second check valve 56 that only allows fluid to flow from the fourth pipeline 104 to the second gas side pipe 32 is further provided on the sixth pipeline 106.

[0065] In some embodiments, at least one hot water generator module 9 is further included. The hot water generator module 9 is capable of producing hot water. The hot water generator module 9 is provided between the first gas side pipe 31 and the liquid side pipe 33, and / or the hot water generator module 9 is provided between the second gas side pipe 32 and the liquid side pipe 33. The present disclosure can also turn on the hot water generator module when it is necessary to produce hot water for heating indoors, so as to achieve the effects of producing hot water for heating, etc.

[0066] In some embodiments, when the hot water generator module 9 is provided between the first gas side pipe 31 and the liquid side pipe 33: the hot water generator module 9 includes a heat exchange component 91 and a seventh pipeline 107. The heat exchange component 91 is capable of exchanging heat to produce hot water. The heat exchange component 91 is provided on the seventh pipeline 107, and one end of the seventh pipeline 107 is connected to the liquid side pipe 33, and the other end is connected to the first gas side pipe 31 through an eighth pipeline 108; or,

[0067] When the hot water generator module 9 is provided between the second gas side pipe 32 and the liquid side pipe 33: the hot water generator module 9 includes a heat exchange component 91 and a seventh pipeline 107. The heat exchange component 91 is capable of exchanging heat to produce hot water. The heat exchange component 91 is provided on the seventh pipeline 107, and one end of the seventh pipeline 107 is connected to the liquid side pipe 33, and the other end of the seventh pipeline 107 is further connected to the second gas side pipe 32 through a ninth pipeline 109; or,

[0068] When the hot water generator module 9 is disposed between the first gas-side pipe 31 and the liquid-side pipe 33, and when the hot water generator module 9 is disposed between the second gas-side pipe 32 and the liquid-side pipe 33: The hot water generator module 9 includes a heat exchange assembly 91 and a seventh pipeline 107. The heat exchange assembly 91 is capable of generating hot water through heat exchange. The heat exchange assembly 91 is disposed on the seventh pipeline 107. One end of the seventh pipeline 107 communicates with the liquid-side pipe 33, and the other end communicates with the first gas-side pipe 31 through an eighth pipeline 108. The other end of the seventh pipeline 107 also communicates with the second gas-side pipe 32 through a ninth pipeline 109. (The other end of the seventh pipeline is the end where it is connected to the eighth pipeline, and the other end of the seventh pipeline is also the end where it is connected to the ninth pipeline).

[0069] In some embodiments, a fifth throttling device 75 is disposed on the seventh pipeline 107, a third control valve 53 is further disposed on the eighth pipeline 108, and a fourth control valve 54 is further disposed on the ninth pipeline 109; and / or, a third one-way valve 57 that only allows fluid to flow from the first gas-side pipe 31 to the seventh pipeline 107 is further disposed on the eighth pipeline 108, and a fourth one-way valve 58 that only allows fluid to flow from the seventh pipeline 107 to the second gas-side pipe 32 is further disposed on the ninth pipeline 109.

[0070] In some embodiments, a first four-way valve 41 and a second four-way valve 42 are further included. The first end D1 of the first four-way valve 41 communicates with the fifth end D2 of the second four-way valve 42 and is jointly communicated with the exhaust end 1a of the compressor 1;

[0071] The sixth end C2 of the second four-way valve 42 communicates with the outdoor heat exchanger 2, and the other end of the outdoor heat exchanger 2 can communicate with the first gas-side pipe 31;

[0072] The third end E1 of the first four-way valve 41 communicates with the second gas-side pipe 32;

[0073] The second end C1 and the fourth end S1 of the first four-way valve 41 communicate with the seventh end E2 and the eighth end S2 of the second four-way valve 42 and are jointly communicated with the suction end 1b of the compressor 1.

[0074] The present disclosure further provides a control method for a multi-connected air conditioner as described in any one of the foregoing items, which includes:

[0075] A detection step for detecting the operating mode of the air conditioner;

[0076] A judgment step for judging whether the heat storage module is connected to the air conditioner system;

[0077] A control step for controlling the heat storage module to release heat for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger when the heat storage module is connected to the air conditioning system and the operating mode of the air conditioner is the defrosting mode.

[0078] When the unit is operating in the heating mode, due to frosting on the outdoor heat exchanger, the heat exchange efficiency is reduced. Therefore, the unit will perform defrosting operation regularly during the heating operation.

[0079] 1. Heat storage module defrosting

[0080] The controller of the system automatically detects the connection status of the heat storage module. When it detects that there is a heat storage module connected, it automatically executes the logic of heat storage defrosting. The heat storage module is only used when the system is operating in the heating mode. When the system is operating in the cooling mode or other modes, the electronic expansion valve of the heat storage module is closed. When the system is operating in the heating mode, the flow direction of the refrigerant in the system is the same as that of a common heating indoor unit. By adjusting the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve in the heat storage module, while not affecting the heating effect of other indoor units, heat is stored in the heat storage module. When the outdoor unit needs to perform defrosting operation, the valve of the common heating indoor unit is closed, and the heat storage module provides heat for defrosting, without taking heat from the indoor, improving indoor comfort.

[0081] The heat storage module can be selectively installed. If the main control of the air conditioning system detects that there is no heat storage module connected to the system, other forms of defrosting or defrosting of the common indoor unit are performed during defrosting; when it detects that there is a heat storage defrosting module connected, the system operates according to the established heat storage defrosting control logic, and heat storage defrosting is performed during defrosting. When the heat storage defrosting fails to complete defrosting, other forms of defrosting or defrosting of the common indoor unit are performed again.

[0082] In some embodiments, when there are also a first four-way valve 41 and a second four-way valve 42, the control step controls the first end D1 and the second end C1 of the first four-way valve 41 to be connected, and the third end E1 and the fourth end S1 to be connected; the control step controls the fifth end D2 and the sixth end C2 of the second four-way valve 42 to be connected, and the seventh end E2 and the eighth end S2 to be connected;

[0083] When there are a heat accumulator 621, a heat storage pipeline 103, and a third throttling device 73, the third throttling device 73 is opened.

[0084] In some embodiments, when there is a hot water module 8:

[0085] A judgment step is also used to judge whether the hot water module is connected to the air conditioning system;

[0086] The control step is also used to control the hot water module to release heat for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger when the hot water module is connected to the air conditioning system, the operating mode of the air conditioner is the defrosting mode, and the heat storage module is not connected to the air conditioning system or the heat storage module is connected to the air conditioning system but the heat storage module exits abnormally.

[0087] 2. Water tank defrosting

[0088] The controller of the system automatically detects the connection status of the water tank. When it detects that a water tank is connected and the water temperature T in the water tank meets a certain temperature (T is defaulted to 15°C, which can be set by itself, but T≥15°C), when defrosting is required, the water tank defrosting operation can be performed as needed.

[0089] When the system is operating normally for heating and the domestic hot water is operating normally, after the high-temperature and high-pressure gas is discharged from the compressor, it passes through the oil separator and then is divided into two paths. One path of refrigerant enters the domestic hot water module through the first large valve 12 of the gas side pipe (high pressure). It enters the water tank through the first control valve 51 (preferably a solenoid valve) to heat the domestic hot water. The other path of refrigerant passes through the first four-way valve 41, enters the indoor unit through the second large valve 13 of the gas side pipe (low pressure), and condenses and releases heat. Then, together with the refrigerant after condensation in the water tank, it passes through the small valve 14 of the liquid side pipe, the subcooler, the throttling component, and then evaporates in the outdoor unit heat exchanger.

[0090] When the defrosting operation is required according to the judgment conditions, the first four-way valve 41 and the second four-way valve 42 are powered off and commutated. After the high-temperature and high-pressure gas is discharged from the compressor, it passes through the oil separator, goes to the outdoor heat exchanger through the second four-way valve 42 to condense and release heat for defrosting, and then flows through the subcooler, flows into the water tank through the small valve of the liquid side pipe, throttles, and then evaporates and takes heat from the water tank. At this time, the first control valve 51 is closed and the second control valve 52 is opened. The refrigerant can only flow out from the second control valve 52, and then passes through the second large valve 13 of the gas side pipe (low pressure), passes through the first four-way valve 41 and returns to the gas-liquid separator, and then returns to the compressor. When the water tank is defrosting, the throttling component in the indoor unit is closed and no refrigerant flows through. When the water tank is defrosting, the water in the water tank provides all the heat for defrosting the outdoor unit, without taking heat from the indoor unit, and the indoor environmental temperature will not cause frequent cold and heat fluctuations, improving the indoor comfort.

[0091] In some embodiments, when the first four-way valve 41 and the second four-way valve 42 are further included, the control step controls the first end D1 and the second end C1 of the first four-way valve 41 to be connected, and the third end E1 and the fourth end S1 to be connected; the control step controls the fifth end D2 and the sixth end C2 of the second four-way valve 42 to be connected, and the seventh end E2 and the eighth end S2 to be connected;

[0092] When the hot water module 8 includes a water tank 81, a fifth throttling device 75, a first control valve 51 and a second control valve 52, open the fifth throttling device 75, close the first control valve 51, and open the second control valve 52 simultaneously.

[0093] In some embodiments, when the hot water module 8 includes a water tank 81 and a fourth pipeline 104:

[0094] The determination step is further configured to determine whether the indoor unit is connected to the air conditioning system;

[0095] The control step is further configured to, when the indoor unit is connected to the air conditioning system, and the operating mode of the air conditioner is the defrosting mode, and the hot water module is not connected to the air conditioning system, or the hot water module is connected to the air conditioning system but the water temperature in the water tank does not meet the defrosting temperature, control the indoor unit to release heat for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0096] 3. Indoor unit defrosting

[0097] When it is detected that there is no heat storage module and water tank connected in the system, and defrosting is required during the heating operation, at this time, indoor unit defrosting is performed. The first four-way valve 41 and the second four-way valve 42 are powered off and reversed. After the high-temperature and high-pressure gas is discharged from the compressor, it passes through the oil separator and the second four-way valve 42 to condense and defrost the outdoor heat exchanger. Then it becomes a medium-pressure and low-temperature liquid, enters the ordinary indoor unit through the small valve on the liquid side pipe, partially evaporates and absorbs heat on the indoor side, and then flows through the second large valve 13 and the first four-way valve 41 into the gas-liquid separator and returns to the compressor. All the heat required for the unit to defrost comes from the indoor environment, so it will cause a decrease in the indoor ambient temperature during defrosting.

[0098] 4. System defrosting priority control description

[0099] After the system is powered on during the heating operation, first detect the operating mode of the system, which is the heating or hot water heating or heating + hot water heating mode. Then, when defrosting operation is required, different judgments are made according to the connection status of each device in the system.

[0100] 1) Is there a heat storage module connected in the system? If so, perform heat storage defrosting. If the heat storage defrosting exits abnormally, or there is no heat storage module connected in the system, then proceed to the next judgment;

[0101] 2) Is there a water tank connected in the system? If so, continue to judge whether the water temperature T in the water tank meets the water tank defrosting temperature? If so, perform water tank defrosting. If there is no water tank connected in the system, or there is a water tank connected, but the water temperature in the water tank does not meet the defrosting conditions, or the water tank defrosting exits abnormally, then proceed to the next judgment;

[0102] 3) If none of the special defrost operations are satisfied, in order to meet the operating performance of the unit, normal indoor unit defrost operation is performed.

[0103] In some embodiments, when the first four-way valve 41 and the second four-way valve 42 are further included, the control step controls the first end D1 and the second end C1 of the first four-way valve 41 to communicate, and the third end E1 and the fourth end S1 to communicate; the control step controls the fifth end D2 and the sixth end C2 of the second four-way valve 42 to communicate, and the seventh end E2 and the eighth end S2 to communicate; the first throttling device 71 is opened.

[0104] The above are only the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Any modifications, equivalent replacements, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present disclosure should be included in the protection scope of the present disclosure. The above is only the preferred implementation manner of the present disclosure. It should be noted that for those of ordinary skill in the art, without departing from the technical principle of the present disclosure, several improvements and modifications can be made, and these improvements and modifications should also be regarded as the protection scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A multi-connected air conditioner, characterized in that: Comprising: A compressor (1), an outdoor heat exchanger (2), a first gas-side pipe (31), a second gas-side pipe (32) and a liquid-side pipe (33). The first gas-side pipe (31), the second gas-side pipe (32) and the liquid-side pipe (33) are respectively connected between the indoor side and the outdoor side. The first gas-side pipe (31) is connected to the exhaust end (1a) of the compressor (1); Further comprising at least one indoor unit (61). The indoor unit (61) is connected between the second gas-side pipe (32) and the liquid-side pipe (33). The indoor unit (61) includes a first indoor heat exchanger (611) and a first pipeline (101). The first indoor heat exchanger (611) is arranged on the first pipeline (101). One end of the first pipeline (101) is connected to the second gas-side pipe (32), and the other end is connected to the liquid-side pipe (33). A first throttling device (71) is arranged on the first pipeline (101); Further comprising at least one heat storage module (62). The heat storage module (62) is connected between the second gas-side pipe (32) and the liquid-side pipe (33); Further comprising at least one hot water module (8). The hot water module (8) is connected between the first gas-side pipe (31) and the liquid-side pipe (33) and / or the hot water module (8) is connected between the second gas-side pipe (32) and the liquid-side pipe (33); When the hot water module (8) is connected between the first gas-side pipe (31) and the liquid-side pipe (33): The hot water module (8) includes a water tank (81) and a fourth pipeline (104). The water tank (81) is arranged on the fourth pipeline (104). One end of the fourth pipeline (104) is connected to the liquid-side pipe (33), and the other end is connected to the first gas-side pipe (31) through a fifth pipeline (105); Or, When the hot water module (8) is connected between the second gas-side pipe (32) and the liquid-side pipe (33): The hot water module (8) includes a water tank (81) and a fourth pipeline (104). The water tank (81) is arranged on the fourth pipeline (104). One end of the fourth pipeline (104) is connected to the liquid-side pipe (33), and the other end of the fourth pipeline (104) is further connected to the second gas-side pipe (32) through a sixth pipeline (106); Or, When the hot water module (8) is connected between the first gas side pipe (31) and the liquid side pipe (33), and when the hot water module (8) is connected between the second gas side pipe (32) and the liquid side pipe (33): the hot water module (8) includes a water tank (81) and a fourth pipeline (104), the water tank (81) is arranged on the fourth pipeline (104), one end of the fourth pipeline (104) communicates with the liquid side pipe (33), and the other end communicates with the first gas side pipe (31) through a fifth pipeline (105), and the other end of the fourth pipeline (104) also communicates with the second gas side pipe (32) through a sixth pipeline (106); A fourth throttling device (74) is arranged on the fourth pipeline (104), a first control valve (51) is also arranged on the fifth pipeline (105), and a second control valve (52) is also arranged on the sixth pipeline (106); a first one-way valve (55) that only allows fluid to flow from the first gas side pipe (31) to the fourth pipeline (104) is also arranged on the fifth pipeline (105), and a second one-way valve (56) that only allows fluid to flow from the fourth pipeline (104) to the second gas side pipe (32) is also arranged on the sixth pipeline (106); If there is only a demand for making hot water in the system, the refrigerant passes through the small valve of the liquid side pipe after heating the hot water, goes to the outdoor unit heat exchanger to evaporate and absorb heat, and then returns to the compressor through the four-way valve; If there are demands for refrigeration and making hot water in the system, the refrigerant goes to the indoor unit with refrigeration demand to evaporate and absorb heat after heating the hot water, and then returns to the compressor; Or it goes to the indoor unit heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger to evaporate and absorb heat together, and then returns to the compressor; which way to choose is determined according to the total demands for making hot water and refrigeration; If there are demands for heating and making hot water in the system, a part of the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor goes to the hot water module to heat the hot water, and a part condenses and releases heat on the indoor side, and then returns to the outdoor unit to evaporate and then returns to the compressor.

2. The multi-connected air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that: The heat storage module (62) includes a heat storage device (621) and a heat storage pipeline (103), the heat storage device (621) and a third throttling device (73) are arranged on the heat storage pipeline (103), one end of the heat storage pipeline (103) communicates with the second gas side pipe (32), and the other end communicates with the liquid side pipe (33).

3. The multi-connected air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that: It further includes at least one hot water generator module (9), the hot water generator module (9) can produce hot water, the hot water generator module (9) is arranged between the first gas side pipe (31) and the liquid side pipe (33), and / or the hot water generator module (9) is arranged between the second gas side pipe (32) and the liquid side pipe (33).

4. The multi-connected air conditioner according to claim 3, characterized in that: When the hot water generator module (9) is arranged between the first gas side pipe (31) and the liquid side pipe (33): The hot water generator module (9) includes a heat exchange component (91) and a seventh pipeline (107). The heat exchange component (91) is capable of generating hot water through heat exchange. The heat exchange component (91) is arranged on the seventh pipeline (107). One end of the seventh pipeline (107) is communicated with the liquid side pipe (33), and the other end is communicated with the first gas side pipe (31) through an eighth pipeline (108); or, When the hot water generator module (9) is arranged between the second gas side pipe (32) and the liquid side pipe (33): The hot water generator module (9) includes a heat exchange component (91) and a seventh pipeline (107). The heat exchange component (91) is capable of generating hot water through heat exchange. The heat exchange component (91) is arranged on the seventh pipeline (107). One end of the seventh pipeline (107) is communicated with the liquid side pipe (33), and the other end of the seventh pipeline (107) is also communicated with the second gas side pipe (32) through a ninth pipeline (109); or, When the hot water generator module (9) is arranged between the first gas side pipe (31) and the liquid side pipe (33) and when the hot water generator module (9) is arranged between the second gas side pipe (32) and the liquid side pipe (33): The hot water generator module (9) includes a heat exchange component (91) and a seventh pipeline (107). The heat exchange component (91) is capable of generating hot water through heat exchange. The heat exchange component (91) is arranged on the seventh pipeline (107). One end of the seventh pipeline (107) is communicated with the liquid side pipe (33), and the other end is communicated with the first gas side pipe (31) through an eighth pipeline (108). The other end of the seventh pipeline (107) is also communicated with the second gas side pipe (32) through a ninth pipeline (109).

5. The multi-connected air conditioner according to claim 4, wherein: A fifth throttling device (75) is arranged on the seventh pipeline (107), a third control valve (53) is further arranged on the eighth pipeline (108), and a fourth control valve (54) is further arranged on the ninth pipeline (109); and / or, a third one-way valve (57) that only allows fluid to flow from the first gas side pipe (31) to the seventh pipeline (107) is further arranged on the eighth pipeline (108), and a fourth one-way valve (58) that only allows fluid to flow from the seventh pipeline (107) to the second gas side pipe (32) is further arranged on the ninth pipeline (109).

6. The multi-connected air conditioner according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein: It further includes a first four-way valve (41) and a second four-way valve (42). The first end (D1) of the first four-way valve (41) is communicated with the fifth end (D2) of the second four-way valve (42) and is jointly communicated with the exhaust end (1a) of the compressor (1); The sixth end (C2) of the second four-way valve (42) communicates with the outdoor heat exchanger (2), and the other end of the outdoor heat exchanger (2) can communicate with the first gas-side pipe (31); The third end (E1) of the first four-way valve (41) communicates with the second gas-side pipe (32); The second end (C1) and the fourth end (S1) of the first four-way valve (41), and the seventh end (E2) and the eighth end (S2) of the second four-way valve (42) are all communicated and together communicate to the suction end (1b) of the compressor (1).

7. A control method for a multi-connected air conditioner according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that: Including: A detection step for detecting the operating mode of the air conditioner; A judgment step for judging whether the heat storage module is connected to the air conditioner system; A control step for, when the heat storage module is connected to the air conditioner system and the operating mode of the air conditioner is the defrosting mode, controlling the heat storage module to release heat for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger.

8. The control method according to claim 7, characterized in that: When further including a first four-way valve (41) and a second four-way valve (42), wherein the first end (D1) of the first four-way valve (41) communicates with the fifth end (D2) of the second four-way valve (42) and together communicates to the discharge end (1a) of the compressor (1); The sixth end (C2) of the second four-way valve (42) communicates with the outdoor heat exchanger (2), and the other end of the outdoor heat exchanger (2) can communicate with the first gas-side pipe (31); The third end (E1) of the first four-way valve (41) communicates with the second gas-side pipe (32); When the second end (C1) and the fourth end (S1) of the first four-way valve (41), and the seventh end (E2) and the eighth end (S2) of the second four-way valve (42) are all communicated and together communicate to the suction end (1b) of the compressor (1): The control step controls the first end (D1) and the second end (C1) of the first four-way valve (41) to communicate, and the third end (E1) and the fourth end (S1) to communicate. The control step controls the fifth end (D2) and the sixth end (C2) of the second four-way valve (42) to communicate, and the seventh end (E2) and the eighth end (S2) to communicate; When including a heat accumulator (621), a heat storage pipeline (103) and a third throttling device (73), the third throttling device (73) is opened.

9. The control method according to claim 7, characterized in that: When including a hot water module (8): The judgment step is further used for judging whether the hot water module is connected to the air conditioner system; The control step is further used for, when the hot water module is connected to the air conditioner system, and the operating mode of the air conditioner is the defrosting mode, and the heat storage module is not connected to the air conditioner system, or the heat storage module is connected to the air conditioner system but the heat storage module exits abnormally, controlling the hot water module to release heat for defrosting the outdoor heat exchanger.

10. The control method according to claim 9, characterized in that: When a first four-way valve (41) and a second four-way valve (42) are further included, the control step controls the first end (D1) and the second end (C1) of the first four-way valve (41) to communicate, and the third end (E1) and the fourth end (S1) to communicate. The control step controls the fifth end (D2) and the sixth end (C2) of the second four-way valve (42) to communicate, and the seventh end (E2) and the eighth end (S2) to communicate; When the hot water module (8) includes a water tank (81), a fifth throttling device (75), a first control valve (51), and a second control valve (52), the fifth throttling device (75) is opened, the first control valve (51) is closed, and the second control valve (52) is opened simultaneously.

11. The control method according to claim 7, wherein: When the hot water module (8) includes a water tank (81) and a fourth pipeline (104): The judging step is further used for judging whether the indoor unit is connected to the air conditioning system; The control step is further used for, when the indoor unit is connected to the air conditioning system, the operation mode of the air conditioner is the defrosting mode, and the hot water module is not connected to the air conditioning system, or the hot water module is connected to the air conditioning system but the water temperature in the water tank does not meet the defrosting temperature, controlling the indoor unit to release heat to defrost the outdoor heat exchanger.

12. The control method according to claim 11, wherein: When a first four-way valve (41) and a second four-way valve (42) are further included, the control step controls the first end (D1) and the second end (C1) of the first four-way valve (41) to communicate, and the third end (E1) and the fourth end (S1) to communicate. The control step controls the fifth end (D2) and the sixth end (C2) of the second four-way valve (42) to communicate, and the seventh end (E2) and the eighth end (S2) to communicate; the first throttling device (71) is opened.

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