Method, device and air conditioner for cleaning outdoor unit of air conditioner

Abstract

This application relates to the technical field of air conditioner cleaning and discloses a method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit. The air conditioner outdoor unit includes a top plate, a spray baffle, an outdoor heat exchanger, and an outdoor fan. The top plate is configured with a water receiving groove, and a spray hole is provided at the bottom of the groove corresponding to the outdoor heat exchange. The spray baffle is openably disposed over the spray hole. The method comprises: obtaining the air conditioner operating mode; obtaining the current rainfall rate when the air conditioner is operating in cooling mode; and opening the spray baffle to spray the outdoor heat exchanger when the current rainfall exceeds a preset value. This application also discloses a device for cleaning the air conditioner outdoor unit and the air conditioner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of air conditioner cleaning, for example, to a method, device and air conditioner for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit. Background Art

[0002] After the air conditioner has been running for a long time, the outdoor heat exchanger will become dirty and clogged, which not only increases the wind resistance, but also reduces the heat transfer coefficient of the outdoor heat exchanger, affecting the cooling and heating effects of the air conditioner.

[0003] Related technology discloses a device for cleaning the outdoor unit heat exchanger of an air conditioner, which includes a rainwater collecting element, a water storage tank, and a spraying element. The rainwater collecting element and the water storage tank are connected by a first pipe. The water stored in the water storage tank can be pumped to the spraying element by a water pump and sprayed onto the outdoor unit heat exchanger through the spraying element.

[0004] During the implementation of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it was found that at least the following problems exist in the related art:

[0005] When collecting rainwater to spray and clean the outdoor heat exchanger, the rainwater is only used as a water supply source, and the gravitational potential energy of the rainwater is not utilized. Instead, the collected rainwater is pumped to the spraying parts through a circulation pump to clean the outdoor heat exchanger. The structure is complex and the cost is high. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed embodiments, a brief summary is given below. The summary is not an extensive review, nor is it intended to identify key / critical elements or delineate the scope of protection of these embodiments, but rather serves as a prelude to the detailed description that follows.

[0007] The embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method, an apparatus, and an air conditioner for cleaning an outdoor unit of an air conditioner, so as to solve the problem of how to better utilize rainwater to clean the outdoor unit of an air conditioner.

[0008] In some embodiments, the air conditioner outdoor unit includes a top plate, a spray baffle, an outdoor heat exchanger and an outdoor fan. The top plate is constructed with a water receiving groove, and a spray hole is opened at the bottom of the groove corresponding to the outdoor heat exchange. The spray baffle can be opened and closed at the spray hole; the method includes: obtaining the air conditioner operating mode; obtaining the current rainfall rate when the air conditioner operates in cooling mode; opening the spray baffle to spray the outdoor heat exchanger when the current rainfall is greater than a preset value.

[0009] In some embodiments, opening the spray damper to spray the outdoor heat exchanger includes controlling the spray damper to periodically open for a first time and close for a second time.

[0010] In some embodiments, the method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit further includes determining the second time according to the rainfall speed.

[0011] In some embodiments, the method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit further includes controlling the outdoor fan to rotate when the spray damper is opened to spray the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0012] In some embodiments, controlling the operation of the outdoor fan includes controlling the outdoor fan to periodically rotate at a first speed for a first time and at a second speed for a second time; wherein the first speed is greater than the second speed.

[0013] In some embodiments, the rotation cycle of the fan lags behind the opening and closing cycle of controlling the spray baffle by a third time.

[0014] In some embodiments, the method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit further includes obtaining weather forecast information through the Internet, and obtaining a current rainfall rate if there is rain within a preset time period.

[0015] In some embodiments, the device for cleaning the outdoor unit of an air conditioner includes an acquisition module, a rainfall detection module and a control module, wherein the acquisition module is configured to acquire the operating mode of the air conditioner; the rainfall detection module is configured to acquire the current rainfall rate when the air conditioner operates in cooling mode; and the control module is configured to open the spray baffle to spray the outdoor heat exchanger when the current rainfall is greater than a preset value.

[0016] In some embodiments, an apparatus for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit includes a processor and a memory storing program instructions, wherein the processor is configured to execute the above-mentioned method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit when executing the program instructions.

[0017] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes the above-mentioned device for cleaning the air conditioner outdoor unit.

[0018] The method, device, and air conditioner for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure can achieve the following technical effects:

[0019] Rainwater is used to clean the outdoor heat exchanger, which is energy-saving and environmentally friendly; a water collection groove is constructed on the top plate to spray the outdoor heat exchanger, and no water pump is required, which is low in cost; while cleaning the outdoor heat exchanger, it can also reduce the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger and improve the cooling effect of the air conditioner.

[0020] The above general description and the following description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not intended to limit the present application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] One or more embodiments are exemplarily described by corresponding drawings. These exemplary descriptions and drawings do not limit the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are shown as similar elements. The drawings do not constitute a scale limitation. In addition,

[0022] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of an air-conditioning outdoor unit provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional structural diagram of an air-conditioning outdoor unit provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional structural diagram of another air-conditioning outdoor unit provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional structural diagram of another air-conditioning outdoor unit provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 5 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a top plate of an air-conditioning outdoor unit provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 6 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a top plate of an air-conditioning outdoor unit provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure when the water retaining structure is in a first position;

[0028] Figure 7 This is a structural schematic diagram of a top plate of an air-conditioning outdoor unit provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure when the water retaining structure is in a second position;

[0029] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a device for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 10 2 is a schematic diagram of another device for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Reference numerals:

[0033] 100: processor; 101: memory; 102: communication interface; 103: bus;

[0034] 110: top plate; 111: water collection groove; 112: spray hole; 1121: first spray hole; 1122: second spray hole; 113: flow guide; 120: side plate; 130: bottom plate;

[0035] 210: Sliding track; 220: Spray baffle; 221: First baffle; 222: Second baffle; 223: Driving rack; 230: Driving device; 231: Driving gear;

[0036] 310: Outdoor heat exchanger; 320: Outdoor fan; 330: Water tray;

[0037] 401: acquisition module; 402: rainfall detection module; 403: control module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] In order to be able to understand the features and technical content of the embodiments of the present disclosure in more detail, the implementation of the embodiments of the present disclosure is described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are for reference only and are not used to limit the embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following technical description, for the sake of convenience of explanation, a full understanding of the disclosed embodiments is provided through multiple details. However, one or more embodiments can still be implemented without these details. In other cases, to simplify the drawings, well-known structures and devices can be simplified for display.

[0039] In the description and claims of the embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as in the accompanying drawings, the terms "first," "second," and the like are used to distinguish similar items and are not necessarily used to describe a particular order or precedence. It should be understood that the terms used in this manner are interchangeable where appropriate to describe the embodiments of the present disclosure herein. In addition, the terms "including," "having," and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions.

[0040] Unless otherwise stated, the term "plurality" means two or more.

[0041] In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the character " / " indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B means: A or B.

[0042] The term "and / or" describes an association between objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B means: A or B, or A and B.

[0043] gather Figure 1-7As shown, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides an air-conditioning outdoor unit, including a top plate 110, a water retaining structure, a side plate 120, a bottom plate 130, an outdoor heat exchanger 310 and an outdoor fan 320, wherein the top plate 110 is constructed with a water collecting groove 111, the water collecting groove 111 is used to collect rainwater, and a spray hole 112 is provided at the bottom of the water collecting groove 111; the water retaining structure is openably arranged at the spray hole 112; the side plate 120 is provided with an air inlet and an air outlet; the bottom plate 130, together with the top plate 110 and the side plate 120, forms an accommodating space; the outdoor heat exchanger 310 is arranged in the accommodating space, and the spray hole 112 is opened corresponding to the outdoor heat exchanger 310; the outdoor fan 320 is arranged in the accommodating space, and is used to drive air to flow from the air inlet to the air outlet.

[0044] The air conditioner's outdoor unit includes a housing and a partition, with a storage space within the housing. The partition divides the storage space into a fan chamber and an electrical chamber. The compressor, electrical control box, and other components of the air conditioner's outdoor unit are located in the electrical chamber. The outdoor heat exchanger 310 and outdoor fan 320 are located in the fan chamber. The housing includes a top plate 110, a bottom plate 130, and side plates 120. The bottom plate 130, top plate 110, and side plates 120 enclose the storage space. The fan chamber has an air inlet and an air outlet, both of which are located on the side plates 120 of the housing. The fan drives air from the inlet to the outlet. The outdoor heat exchanger 310 is located in the fan chamber. Air flowing from the inlet to the outlet passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 310, thereby promoting heat exchange between the outdoor heat exchanger 310 and the outdoor environment.

[0045] Generally, the shell of the outdoor heat exchanger 310 is a relatively closed shell, and it is necessary to prevent dust and foreign matter from entering the fan room or the motor room. In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the top plate 110 is constructed with a water collecting groove 111, which is used to collect rainwater. When it rains, rain falls from a high place and naturally falls into the water collecting groove 111. A spray hole 112 is provided at the bottom of the water collecting groove 111 corresponding to the outdoor heat exchanger 310. The air sprayed from the spray hole 112 is used to spray the outdoor heat exchanger 310. Therefore, the spray hole 112 is located directly above the outdoor heat exchanger 310 so that the water in the water receiving tray 330 can fall on the upper surface of the outdoor heat exchanger 310 when it flows out of the spray hole 112. The outdoor heat exchanger 310 is a serpentine tube including multiple fins. Water flows downward along the heat exchanger to flush the outdoor heat exchanger 310. This allows the outdoor heat exchanger 310 to be cleaned. Furthermore, when the air conditioner is operating in cooling mode, i.e., when the outdoor heat exchanger 310 is condensing, the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 310 can be lowered through heat exchange between water and the heat exchanger, thereby improving the energy efficiency of the air conditioner. A water retaining structure is provided at the spray hole 112 in an openable and closable manner. When rainwater is required to spray the outdoor heat exchanger 310, the water retaining structure opens the spray hole 112. When rainwater is not required to spray the outdoor heat exchanger 310, the water retaining structure closes the spray hole 112, thereby preventing dust and foreign matter from entering the storage space through the spray hole 112.

[0046] The water retaining structure includes a sliding track 210, a spray baffle 220 and a driving device 230, wherein the sliding track 210 is arranged on the upper surface or lower surface of the top plate 110; the spray baffle 220 is slidably arranged on the sliding track 210, and the spray hole 112 is closed when the spray baffle 220 is in the first position, and the spray hole 112 is opened when the spray baffle 220 is in the second position; the driving device 230 is used to drive the spray baffle 220 to slide between the first position and the second position.

[0047] The spray baffle 220 is used to open and close the spray hole 112 at the bottom of the water collection groove 111. Specifically, when spraying the outdoor heat exchanger 310, the spray baffle 220 is located in the second position to open the spray hole 112. When spraying the outdoor heat exchanger 310 is not required, the spray baffle 220 is located in the first position to close the spray hole 112 and enter the dust blocking mode. The sliding track 210 is used to limit the movement path of the spray baffle 220. The spray baffle 220 is slidably arranged on the upper surface or lower surface of the top plate 110. The spray baffle 220 is in a sliding connection with the top plate 110, so that the overall shape of the air conditioner outdoor unit changes relatively little during the movement of the spray baffle 220. The driving device 230 can drive the spray baffle 220 to slide along the sliding track 210.

[0048] Optionally, the sliding track 210 includes a slot in which the spray baffle 220 slides. This arrangement prevents the spray baffle 220 from slipping off the track during sliding. Furthermore, the edge of the spray baffle 220 fits into the slot, ensuring a good seal when the spray baffle 220 closes the spray hole 112.

[0049] Optionally, the height of the slot gradually decreases from the first end to the second end. The height of the slot corresponds to the thickness of the spray baffle 220. When the spray baffle 220 slides from the second position to the first position, the spray baffle 220 slides from the first end to the second end in the slot. In this process, the fitting relationship between the spray baffle 220 and the slot is changed from a clearance fit to an interference fit. With such a setting, the spray baffle 220 can slide relatively smoothly between the first position and the second position, and when the spray baffle 220 is in the first position, it can be tightly assembled with the slot, thereby improving the sealing effect of the spray baffle 220 on the spray hole 112 in the dust blocking mode.

[0050] Optionally, the width of the narrow, elongated spray hole 112 is less than the thickness of the outdoor heat exchanger 310. The outdoor heat exchanger 310 is vertically arranged, and its thickness is the dimension along the air flow direction. The narrow, elongated spray hole 112 allows water flowing out of the spray hole 112 to flow more efficiently to the outdoor heat exchanger 310. Furthermore, the narrow, elongated spray hole 112 increases the cross-sectional area of the spray hole 112, facilitating the flow of water from the water collection groove 111 out of the spray hole 112.

[0051] Optionally, a grid plate is provided on the spray hole 112. With such a configuration, the water flowing out of the spray hole 112 is in the form of multiple water columns. This can improve the uniformity of spraying the outdoor heat exchanger 310.

[0052] Optionally, the outdoor heat exchanger 310 has an L-shaped cross-section, and the spray holes 112 include a first spray hole 1121 and a second spray hole 1122, which are connected to form an L-shape. To increase the heat exchange area of the outdoor heat exchanger 310, the heat exchanger has an L-shaped cross-section. That is, the heat exchanger includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being arranged along the length of the accommodating space, and the second portion being arranged along the width of the outdoor heat exchanger 310. The ends of the first portion and the second portion are connected to form a 90° angle. With this arrangement, the outdoor heat exchanger 310 can effectively utilize the space in the accommodating space, increase the heat exchange area of the outdoor heat exchanger 310, and further enhance the cooling and heating performance of the air conditioner. The outdoor heat exchanger 310 has an L-shaped cross-section, and the spray holes 112 have a corresponding L-shape. Specifically, the spray holes 112 include an elongated first spray hole 1121 and an elongated second spray hole 1122. The ends of the first spray hole 1121 and the second spray hole 1122 are connected, forming an L-shape. With this arrangement, the shape of the spray holes 112 corresponds to the shape of the heat exchanger. Water flowing through the spray holes 112 can flow to various locations on the outdoor heat exchanger 310, improving the spray effect on the outdoor heat exchanger 310.

[0053] Optionally, the spray baffle 220 includes a first baffle 221, a second baffle 222, and a drive rack 223. The first baffle 221 corresponds to the first spray hole 1121; the second baffle 222 is connected to the first baffle 221 and corresponds to the second spray hole 1122; the drive rack 223 is connected to the first baffle 221 and the second baffle 222, and the drive gear 231 forms a first angle with the first baffle 221. Corresponding to the spray hole 112, the spray baffle 220 is also L-shaped. The spray baffle 220 includes a first baffle 221 and a second baffle 222. The first baffle 221 corresponds to the first spray hole 1121, and the second baffle 222 corresponds to the second spray hole 1122. The drive rack 223 is connected to either the first baffle 221 or the second baffle 222. It should be noted that the first baffle 221 and the second baffle 222 are connected, and the drive rack 223 is connected to either the first baffle 221 or the second baffle 222 to drive the first baffle 221 and the second baffle 222 to slide. The drive rack 223 forms a first angle with the first baffle 221. Specifically, the drive rack 223 is located between the first baffle 221 and the second baffle 222. In this way, the drive rack 223 can move a relatively short distance to drive the spray baffle 220 to open or close the spray hole 112. This arrangement facilitates the opening and closing of the spray baffle 220.

[0054] Optionally, the first angle is 45°. When the first angle is 45°, the drive rack 223 moves, and the first baffle 221 and the second baffle 222 move the same distance. With this arrangement, the required displacement of the drive rack 223 when driving the spray baffle 220 to open and close is minimized, which facilitates driving the spray baffle 220.

[0055] Optionally, the driving device 230 includes a driving motor and a driving gear 231 , wherein the driving motor is fixed to the top plate 110 ; the driving gear 231 is connected to the output shaft of the driving motor and meshes with the driving rack 223 .

[0056] The drive motor provides power, with its output shaft connected to a drive gear 231. Drive gear 231 is rotatably mounted on top plate 110 and meshes with drive rack 223. The drive motor is bidirectional. When the drive motor rotates, drive gear 231 rotates, driving the rack 223, thereby driving spray baffle 220 to slide along slide track 210. This drive system offers a simple structure and reliable functionality.

[0057] Optionally, the spray baffle 220 is slidably mounted on the lower surface of the top plate 110, and the drive device 230 is fixed to the lower surface of the top plate 110. The upper surface of the top plate 110 is exposed to the external environment and is exposed to rain and dust. The drive device 230 is mounted on the lower surface of the top plate 110 to maintain a relatively closed environment, thereby preventing malfunction and damage to the drive device 230. With the spray baffle 220 and the drive device 230 mounted on the lower surface of the top plate 110, the air conditioner outdoor unit has a more neat and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

[0058] Optionally, the air conditioner outdoor unit further includes a flow guide portion 113 extending downward from the lower surface of the top plate 110 corresponding to the spray hole 112 .

[0059] When water flows downward from the spray hole 112, due to the wettability of water, it is possible that the water will flow along the lower surface of the top plate 110 to other locations in the accommodating space. Therefore, a guide portion 113 is provided corresponding to the spray hole 112. The guide portion 113 extends downward from the lower surface of the top plate 110, is arranged circumferentially along the spray hole 112, and surrounds the spray hole 112. That is, the guide portion 113 protrudes downward corresponding to the spray hole 112. The guide portion 113 prevents water from flowing horizontally and can only flow downward. This arrangement improves the spraying effect on the outdoor heat exchanger 310 and prevents water from flowing to other locations and causing malfunctions in the air-conditioning outdoor unit.

[0060] Optionally, the conducting cross-section of the guide portion 113 gradually decreases from top to bottom.

[0061] In this way, on the one hand, the side walls of the guide portion 113 guide the water, preventing it from moving laterally to other locations. On the other hand, the smaller opening at the bottom of the guide portion 113 throttles and reduces the pressure of the water passing through the guide portion 113, thereby increasing the water flow rate. This arrangement further improves the spraying effect on the outdoor heat exchanger 310.

[0062] Combine Figure 2 As shown, optionally, the top plate 110 is constructed with a stepped structure, and the spray hole 112 is opened at the lowest point.

[0063] With such an arrangement, the water in the water collecting groove 111 can flow better to the spray hole 112 to spray the outdoor heat exchanger 310 .

[0064] Combine Figure 3 As shown, optionally, the top plate 110 is inclined toward the spray hole 112 from all sides.

[0065] With such a configuration, the water in the water collecting groove 111 can flow better to the spray hole 112 to spray the outdoor heat exchanger 310 .

[0066] Optionally, the air-conditioning outdoor unit further includes a water receiving pan 330 , which is arranged on the bottom plate 130 corresponding to the outdoor heat exchanger 310 , and the water receiving pan 330 is provided with a drain hole.

[0067] The water collection pan 330 collects the spray water flowing down the outdoor heat exchanger 310. The water collection pan prevents the spray water from flowing to other locations on the outdoor heat exchanger 310. The water collection pan 330 is located on the bottom plate 130 and has a structure that can maintain a high temperature. The water collection pan 330 has a drain hole that allows the spray water that falls into the water collection pan 330 to be drained away smoothly.

[0068] Combine Figure 8 As shown, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit, comprising:

[0069] S01, obtaining the air conditioner operation mode;

[0070] S02, obtaining the current rainfall rate when the air conditioner is operating in cooling mode;

[0071] S03: When the current rainfall rate is greater than a preset value, the spray damper is opened to spray the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0072] The method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit provided in the embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to the aforementioned air conditioner outdoor unit. In step S01, the air conditioner's operating mode includes cooling mode, heating mode, and defrost mode. When the air conditioner is operating in cooling mode, the outdoor heat exchanger functions as a condenser. At this time, spraying the outdoor heat exchanger with rainwater not only cleans the outdoor heat exchanger but also reduces its temperature, thereby improving the air conditioner's cooling effect.

[0073] When the air conditioner is operating in heating and defrost modes, the outdoor heat exchanger acts as an evaporator. Rainwater spraying onto the outdoor heat exchanger may cause frost, affecting the normal operation of the air conditioner. Therefore, in step S02, the rainfall rate is obtained while the air conditioner is operating in cooling mode. This reduces the air conditioner's computational workload and prevents rainwater self-cleaning from affecting the air conditioner's heating and defrosting functions.

[0074] Rainfall rate is information that indicates the speed of rainfall, for example, in mm / min. When the rainfall rate is low, it's possible that during the initial stages of rainfall, the rainwater captures dust from the air and contains a high concentration of impurities. When spraying the outdoor heat exchanger, these impurities may adhere to the outdoor heat exchanger, preventing it from effectively cleaning the heat exchanger. When the rainfall rate is low, it's possible that the air conditioner's outdoor unit is experiencing light rain. In this case, less rain falls into the water collection trough per unit time, resulting in a lower flow rate when spraying the outdoor heat exchanger, which may not effectively flush dust from the surface.

[0075] Therefore, in step S03, the spray damper is opened to spray the outdoor heat exchanger only when the rainfall rate exceeds a preset value. In this case, the amount of rainwater sprayed onto the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger is large and the flow rate is high, which can remove dust from the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger through the adsorption and flushing effects of the rainwater.

[0076] The method for cleaning the outdoor unit of an air conditioner provided by the embodiment of the present disclosure utilizes rainwater to clean the outdoor heat exchanger, which is energy-saving and environmentally friendly. While cleaning the outdoor heat exchanger, the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger can also be lowered, thereby improving the cooling effect of the air conditioner.

[0077] Optionally, opening the spray damper to spray the outdoor heat exchanger includes: determining a second time according to a rainfall rate; and controlling the spray damper to periodically open for a first time and close for a second time.

[0078] When the spray baffle is opened, the water in the water collection groove will flow from the spray hole to the outdoor heat exchanger in a very short time. In most cases, the speed at which the water collection groove collects water is slower than the speed at which water is consumed when spraying the outdoor heat exchanger. Therefore, the outdoor heat exchanger is sprayed using intermittent spraying of accumulated rainwater. Specifically, the spray baffle is controlled to open for a first time, so that the water in the water collection groove flushes the outdoor heat exchanger at a high flow rate. Then, the spray baffle is controlled to close for a second time to accumulate a certain amount of water. This reciprocating cycle allows the water to flow faster and at a higher flow rate when spraying the outdoor heat exchanger, achieving an effective spraying effect on the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0079] In an optional embodiment, the amount of water sprayed in a single spray is V, the speed of water flowing out of the spray hole when the spray damper is opened is v1, the rainfall speed is v2, the first time of opening the spray damper is t1, and the second time of closing the spray damper is t2, where v1 and t1 are preset values, then

[0080] v1*t1=v2*(t1+t2)=V,

[0081] t1=V / v1

[0082] t2=V / v2-V / v1

[0083] Here, given that V is a certain value less than the volume of the water collection groove, and the spray damper opening is fixed, v1 is a fixed value, and t2 is determined solely by v2. The second duration t2 can be determined using the above formula. This ensures that the water volume and flow rate for a single spray of the outdoor heat exchanger remain relatively constant, facilitating spray control of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0084] Optionally, opening the spray damper to spray the outdoor heat exchanger further includes: determining a first opening of the spray damper according to a current rainfall rate; wherein the opening of the spray damper is less than or equal to the first opening.

[0085] The opening of the spray baffle determines the second flow rate of rainwater flowing out of the spray hole. In the case of a high rainfall rate, the spray baffle is controlled to open with a larger opening, which can improve the spray cleaning effect on the outdoor heat exchanger. In the case of a low rainfall rate, the spray baffle is controlled to open with a smaller opening. The smaller opening is a more economical opening. A smaller opening can increase the number of sprays on the outdoor heat exchanger, thereby improving the spray cleaning effect on the outdoor heat exchanger. The first opening of the spray baffle is determined according to the rainfall rate. If the rainfall rate is high, the first opening is larger, and if the rainfall rate is low, the first opening is lower. The first opening is positively correlated with the rainfall rate. In an optional embodiment, the outdoor heat exchanger is pre-set with a table containing the correspondence between the first opening and the rainfall rate, and the first opening of the spray baffle is determined according to the rainfall rate by looking up the table.

[0086] Optionally, the method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit further includes: controlling the outdoor fan to rotate when the spray damper is opened to spray the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0087] When spraying the outdoor heat exchanger, water flows along the outdoor heat exchanger and may splash to other locations. The fan drives the air to flow from the air inlet to the air outlet. By controlling the operation of the fan, the rainwater sprayed on the outdoor heat exchanger can be blown out through the air outlet. On the one hand, it can prevent the rainwater from splashing to other locations, and on the other hand, it can promote the horizontal movement of rainwater on the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger, thereby more comprehensively cleaning the outdoor heat exchanger. In addition, when the fan blows out the air from the fan box, the rainwater flowing through the outdoor heat exchanger is blown out from the air outlet by the fan, and the rainwater can also wash and clean the fan blades.

[0088] Optionally, controlling the rotation of the outdoor fan includes controlling the outdoor fan to periodically rotate at a first speed for a first time and at a second speed for a second time; wherein the first speed is greater than the second speed.

[0089] When the air conditioner is operating in cooling mode, the outdoor fan rotates. If the outdoor fan is constantly running at a high speed, it will affect the setting of the air conditioner's cooling parameters, and the spray water will not be able to fully contact the outdoor heat exchanger and will be blown out, which is not conducive to cleaning the outdoor heat exchanger. Therefore, when the spray damper is periodically opened for a first time and closed for a second time, the outdoor fan rotates at a correspondingly higher first speed for the first time and a lower second speed for the second time. The second speed is the speed of the outdoor fan under the current operating conditions when the air conditioner is operating in cooling mode. This speed can ensure the normal operation of the air conditioner's cooling. The second speed is greater than the first speed, which can blow out rainwater sprayed onto the outdoor heat exchanger. Using this setting can further prevent rainwater sprayed onto the outdoor heat exchanger from splashing or gathering inside the outdoor heat exchanger. At the same time, the outdoor fan provides a force to drive the rainwater to move laterally along the outdoor heat exchanger, further improving the cleaning effect of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0090] Optionally, the rotation cycle of the outdoor fan lags behind the opening and closing cycle of the spray damper by a third time.

[0091] Rainwater sprays from the spray holes onto the outdoor heat exchanger, subject to the downward force of gravity and lateral wind force. If the outdoor fan is running at the first speed when the spray damper is open, the rainwater sprayed onto the outdoor heat exchanger may be blown out before it reaches the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger. Therefore, the rotation cycle of the outdoor fan lags behind the opening and closing cycle of the spray damper by a third time. The third time is the time it takes for rainwater to flow from the spray holes to the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger. The spray water flows downward, subject to the combined effects of gravity, viscous resistance on the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger, and other factors, making it difficult to calculate directly. This third time can be obtained through multiple tests. By having the outdoor fan rotation cycle lag behind the opening and closing cycle of the spray damper, rainwater can be effectively prevented from accumulating inside the outdoor heat exchanger and the rainwater sprayed onto the outdoor heat exchanger can be fully flushed horizontally and vertically with the outdoor heat exchanger, thereby improving the cleaning effect of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0092] Optionally, the method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit further includes: obtaining weather forecast information through the Internet, and obtaining a current rainfall rate when it rains within a preset time period.

[0093] The air conditioner has a built-in networking module that is used to obtain weather forecast information for a preset time period. For example, if the forecast indicates rain in a certain area during a certain time period on a certain day, the air conditioner can obtain the air conditioner's deceleration rate during that time period. This eliminates the need to obtain real-time rainfall information, reducing the air conditioner's computational workload. If the forecast predicts rain, for example, the rainfall rate can be obtained using a raindrop sensor, improving accuracy and preventing misjudgments by the air conditioner.

[0094] Combine Figure 9 As shown, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a device for cleaning an outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein the outdoor unit of the air conditioner includes a top plate, a spray baffle, an outdoor heat exchanger and an outdoor fan, wherein the top plate is constructed with a water receiving groove, a spray hole is opened at the bottom of the groove corresponding to the outdoor heat exchange, and the spray baffle can be opened and closed at the spray hole; the device includes an acquisition module 401, a rainfall detection module 402 and a control module 403, wherein the acquisition module 401 is configured to obtain the operating mode of the air conditioner; the rainfall detection module 402 is configured to obtain the current rainfall speed when the air conditioner operates in cooling mode; the control module 403 is configured to open the spray baffle to spray the outdoor heat exchanger when the current rainfall is greater than a preset value.

[0095] The method for cleaning the outdoor unit of an air conditioner provided by the embodiment of the present disclosure utilizes rainwater to clean the outdoor heat exchanger, which is energy-saving and environmentally friendly. While cleaning the outdoor heat exchanger, the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger can also be lowered, thereby improving the cooling effect of the air conditioner.

[0096] Optionally, opening the spray damper to spray the outdoor heat exchanger includes controlling the spray damper to periodically open for a first time and close for a second time.

[0097] When the spray baffle is opened, the water in the water collection groove will flow from the spray hole to the outdoor heat exchanger in a very short time. In most cases, the speed at which the water collection groove collects water is slower than the speed at which water is consumed when spraying the outdoor heat exchanger. Therefore, the outdoor heat exchanger is sprayed using intermittent spraying of accumulated rainwater. Specifically, the spray baffle is controlled to open for a first time, so that the water in the water collection groove flushes the outdoor heat exchanger at a high flow rate. Then, the spray baffle is controlled to close for a second time to accumulate a certain amount of water. This reciprocating cycle allows the water to flow faster and at a higher flow rate when spraying the outdoor heat exchanger, achieving an effective spraying effect on the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0098] Optionally, the apparatus for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit further includes a determination module configured to determine the second time according to a rainfall rate.

[0099] Optionally, the determination module is not configured to determine a first opening of the spray baffle according to a current rainfall rate, wherein the opening of the spray baffle is less than or equal to the first opening.

[0100] The opening degree of the spray damper determines the second-by-second flow rate of rainwater flowing out of the spray holes. In conditions of high rainfall rates, controlling the spray damper to open at a larger opening can improve the spray cleaning effect on the outdoor heat exchanger. In conditions of low rainfall rates, controlling the spray damper to open at a smaller opening can improve the spray cleaning effect on the outdoor heat exchanger. This smaller opening is more economical and can increase the number of sprays on the outdoor heat exchanger, thereby improving the spray cleaning effect on the outdoor heat exchanger. The first opening of the spray damper is determined based on the rainfall rate. Higher rainfall rates result in a larger first opening, while lower rainfall rates result in a smaller first opening. The first opening is positively correlated with the rainfall rate.

[0101] Optionally, the control module 403 is further configured to control the operation of the outdoor fan when the spray damper is opened to spray the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0102] When spraying the outdoor heat exchanger, water flows along the outdoor heat exchanger and may splash to other locations. The fan drives the air to flow from the air inlet to the air outlet. By controlling the operation of the fan, the rainwater sprayed on the outdoor heat exchanger can be blown out through the air outlet. On the one hand, it can prevent the rainwater from splashing to other locations, and on the other hand, it can promote the horizontal movement of rainwater on the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger, thereby more comprehensively cleaning the outdoor heat exchanger. In addition, when the fan blows out the air from the fan box, the rainwater flowing through the outdoor heat exchanger is blown out from the air outlet by the fan, and the rainwater can also wash and clean the fan blades.

[0103] Optionally, controlling the operation of the outdoor fan includes controlling the outdoor fan to periodically rotate at a first speed for a first time and at a second speed for a second time; wherein the first speed is greater than the second speed.

[0104] When the air conditioner is operating in cooling mode, the outdoor fan rotates. If the outdoor fan is constantly running at a high speed, it will affect the setting of the air conditioner's cooling parameters, and the spray water will not be able to fully contact the outdoor heat exchanger and will be blown out, which is not conducive to cleaning the outdoor heat exchanger. Therefore, when the spray damper is periodically opened for a first time and closed for a second time, the outdoor fan rotates at a correspondingly higher first speed for the first time and a lower second speed for the second time. The second speed is the speed of the outdoor fan under the current operating conditions when the air conditioner is operating in cooling mode. This speed can ensure the normal operation of the air conditioner's cooling. The second speed is greater than the first speed, which can blow out rainwater sprayed onto the outdoor heat exchanger. Using this setting can further prevent rainwater sprayed onto the outdoor heat exchanger from splashing or gathering inside the outdoor heat exchanger. At the same time, the outdoor fan provides a force to drive the rainwater to move laterally along the outdoor heat exchanger, further improving the cleaning effect of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0105] Optionally, the rotation cycle of the fan lags behind the opening and closing cycle of the spray damper by a third time.

[0106] Rainwater sprays from the spray holes onto the outdoor heat exchanger, subject to the downward force of gravity and lateral wind force. If the outdoor fan is running at the first speed when the spray damper is open, the rainwater sprayed onto the outdoor heat exchanger may be blown out before it reaches the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger. Therefore, the rotation cycle of the outdoor fan lags behind the opening and closing cycle of the spray damper by a third time. The third time is the time it takes for rainwater to flow from the spray holes to the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger. The spray water flows downward, subject to the combined effects of gravity, viscous resistance on the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger, and other factors, making it difficult to calculate directly. This third time can be obtained through multiple tests. By having the outdoor fan rotation cycle lag behind the opening and closing cycle of the spray damper, rainwater can be effectively prevented from accumulating inside the outdoor heat exchanger and the rainwater sprayed onto the outdoor heat exchanger can be fully flushed horizontally and vertically with the outdoor heat exchanger, thereby improving the cleaning effect of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0107] Optionally, the device for cleaning the air conditioner outdoor unit also includes a networking module configured to obtain weather forecast information through the Internet, and a rainfall detection module 402 configured to obtain the current rainfall rate when the air conditioner is running in cooling mode and there is rain within a preset time period.

[0108] The air conditioner has a built-in networking module that is used to obtain weather forecast information for a preset time period. For example, if the forecast indicates rain in a certain area during a certain time period on a certain day, the air conditioner can obtain the air conditioner's deceleration rate during that time period. This eliminates the need to obtain real-time rainfall information, reducing the air conditioner's computational workload. If the forecast predicts rain, for example, the rainfall rate can be obtained using a raindrop sensor, improving accuracy and preventing misjudgments by the air conditioner.

[0109] Combine Figure 10 As shown, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a device for a method of cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit, including a processor 100 and a memory 101. Optionally, the device may further include a communication interface 102 and a bus 103. The processor 100, the communication interface 102, and the memory 101 can communicate with each other through the bus 103. The communication interface 102 can be used for information transmission. The processor 100 can call the logic instructions in the memory 101 to execute the method for cleaning the air conditioner outdoor unit of the above embodiment.

[0110] In addition, the logic instructions in the memory 101 can be implemented in the form of software functional units and can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium when sold or used as an independent product.

[0111] The memory 101 is a computer-readable storage medium that can be used to store software programs and computer-executable programs, such as the program instructions / modules corresponding to the methods in the embodiments of the present disclosure. The processor 100 executes the program instructions / modules stored in the memory 101 to execute functional applications and data processing, thereby implementing the method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit in the above-mentioned embodiment.

[0112] The memory 101 may include a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area may store an operating system and at least one application required for a function; the data storage area may store data generated based on the use of the terminal device. Furthermore, the memory 101 may include high-speed random access memory and non-volatile memory.

[0113] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner, comprising an apparatus for the above-mentioned method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit.

[0114] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions, wherein the computer-executable instructions are configured to execute the above-mentioned method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit.

[0115] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program stored on a computer-readable storage medium. The computer program includes program instructions. When the program instructions are executed by a computer, the computer executes the above-mentioned method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit.

[0116] The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium may be a transient computer-readable storage medium or a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

[0117] The technical solution of the embodiments of the present disclosure may be embodied in the form of a software product, which is stored in a storage medium and includes one or more instructions for causing a computer device (which may be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the method of the embodiments of the present disclosure. The aforementioned storage medium may be a non-transitory storage medium, including: a USB flash drive, a mobile hard disk, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk or an optical disk, and other media that can store program code, or a transient storage medium.

[0118] The above description and the accompanying drawings fully illustrate the embodiments of the present disclosure so that those skilled in the art can practice them. Other embodiments may include structural, logical, electrical, process and other changes. The embodiments represent only possible variations. Unless explicitly required, individual components and functions are optional, and the order of operations may vary. Parts and features of some embodiments may be included in or replace parts and features of other embodiments. Moreover, the words used in this application are only used to describe the embodiments and are not used to limit the claims. As used in the description of the embodiments and claims, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to also include plural forms. Similarly, the term "and / or" as used in this application refers to any and all possible combinations of one or more associated listings. In addition, when used in this application, the term "comprise" and its variants "comprises" and / or comprising refer to the presence of stated features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof. Without further restrictions, the elements defined by the sentence "comprising a method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit" do not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method or device comprising the elements. In this article, each embodiment may focus on the differences from other embodiments, and the same and similar parts between the various embodiments can be referenced to each other. For the methods, products, etc. disclosed in the embodiments, if they correspond to the method part disclosed in the embodiments, then the relevant parts can be found in the description of the method part.

[0119] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the units and algorithm steps of each example described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are performed in hardware or software may depend on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. The technicians may use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered to be beyond the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure. The technicians will clearly understand that, for the convenience and brevity of description, the specific working processes of the systems, devices and units described above can refer to the corresponding processes in the aforementioned method embodiments and will not be repeated here.

[0120] In the embodiments disclosed herein, the disclosed methods and products (including but not limited to devices, equipment, etc.) can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For example, the division of the units can be merely a logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods, such as multiple units or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be ignored or not executed. In addition, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed can be through some interfaces, indirect coupling or communication connection of devices or units, which can be electrical, mechanical or other forms. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separated, and the components shown as units may or may not be physical units, that is, they may be located in one place, or they may be distributed on multiple network units. Some or all of the units may be selected according to actual needs to implement this embodiment. In addition, the functional units in the embodiments of the present disclosure may be integrated into a processing unit, or each unit may exist physically separately, or two or more units may be integrated into one unit.

[0121] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings show the possible implementation architectures, functions and operations of the systems, methods and computer program products according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. In this regard, each box in the flowchart or block diagram can represent a module, program segment or part of the code, and the module, program segment or part of the code contains one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical functions. In some alternative implementations, the functions marked in the box can also occur in an order different from that marked in the accompanying drawings. For example, two consecutive boxes can actually be executed substantially in parallel, or they can sometimes be executed in the opposite order, which can depend on the functions involved. In the descriptions corresponding to the flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings, the operations or steps corresponding to different boxes can also occur in an order different from that disclosed in the description, and sometimes there is no specific order between different operations or steps. For example, two consecutive operations or steps can actually be executed substantially in parallel, or they can sometimes be executed in the opposite order, which can depend on the functions involved. Each block in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, may be implemented by a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or action, or may be implemented by a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

Claims

1. A method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit, characterized in that: The air conditioner outdoor unit includes a top plate, a spray baffle, an outdoor heat exchanger, and an outdoor fan. The top plate is configured with a water receiving groove, a spray hole is provided at the bottom of the groove corresponding to the outdoor heat exchanger, and the spray baffle is closably disposed at the spray hole. The method includes: Get the air conditioner operating mode; When the air conditioner is running in cooling mode, obtain the current rainfall rate; When the current rainfall rate is greater than a preset value, the spray damper is opened to spray the outdoor heat exchanger; controlling the outdoor fan to rotate when the spray damper is opened to spray the outdoor heat exchanger; Wherein, opening the spray baffle to spray the outdoor heat exchanger includes: Controlling the spray baffle to periodically open for a first time and close for a second time; The controlling the rotation of the outdoor fan comprises: controlling the outdoor fan to periodically rotate at a first speed for a first time and at a second speed for a second time, wherein the first speed is greater than the second speed; Wherein, the rotation cycle of the fan lags behind the opening and closing cycle of controlling the spray baffle by a third time; Among them, if the water volume of a single spray is V, the speed of water flowing out of the spray hole when the spray damper is opened is v1, the rainfall speed is v2, the first time to open the spray damper is t1, and the second time to close the spray damper is t2, among which v1 and t1 are preset values, then: t2 = V / v2-V / v1.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The air conditioner outdoor unit also includes a sliding track and a driving device, wherein the sliding track is arranged on the upper surface or lower surface of the top plate; the spray baffle is slidably arranged on the sliding track, the spray hole is closed when the spray baffle is in the first position, and the spray hole is opened when the spray baffle is in the second position; the driving device is used to drive the spray baffle to slide between the first position and the second position.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that Also includes: Get weather forecast information through the Internet, Get the current rainfall rate if there is rain during the preset time period.

4. A device for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit, characterized in that: The air conditioner outdoor unit includes a top plate, a spray baffle, an outdoor heat exchanger and an outdoor fan. The top plate is configured with a water receiving groove, a spray hole is provided at the bottom of the groove corresponding to the outdoor heat exchanger, and the spray baffle is openably arranged at the spray hole. The device includes: an acquisition module configured to acquire an operating mode of the air conditioner; a rainfall detection module, configured to obtain a current rainfall rate when the air conditioner operates in a cooling mode; a control module configured to open the spray damper to spray the outdoor heat exchanger when the current rainfall is greater than a preset value, and control the outdoor fan to rotate when the spray damper is opened to spray the outdoor heat exchanger; Wherein, opening the spray baffle to spray the outdoor heat exchanger includes: Controlling the spray baffle to periodically open for a first time and close for a second time; The controlling the rotation of the outdoor fan comprises: Controlling the outdoor fan to periodically rotate at a first speed for a first time and at a second speed for a second time; wherein the first rotational speed is greater than the second rotational speed, and the rotation period of the fan lags behind the opening and closing period of controlling the spray baffle by a third time; Among them, if the water volume of a single spray is V, the speed of water flowing out of the spray hole when the spray damper is opened is v1, the rainfall speed is v2, the first time to open the spray damper is t1, and the second time to close the spray damper is t2, among which v1 and t1 are preset values, then: t2 = V / v2-V / v1.

5. A device for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit, comprising a processor and a memory storing program instructions, characterized in that: The processor is configured to perform the method for cleaning an air conditioner outdoor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3 when executing the program instructions.

6. An air conditioner, characterized in that: The invention comprises a device for cleaning an outdoor unit of an air conditioner as claimed in claim 4 or 5.

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