Method for controlling air conditioner, apparatus, air conditioner, and storage medium

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of intelligent household appliances, and discloses a method for controlling an air conditioner, the air conditioner comprising: a refrigerant circulation loop; the refrigerant circulation loop comprising: an expansion valve and a throttling heat exchanger; the throttling heat exchanger comprising: a plurality of heat exchange branches, each heat exchange branch being capable of being switched between a parallel connection communication state and a series connection communication state; the method comprising: in the case that the air conditioner is running in a refrigeration mode and an outdoor environment temperature meets a preset condition, switching the communication state of each heat exchange branch; controlling the expansion valve to be opened to a preset opening degree; and correcting the opening degree of the expansion valve according to an inner coil temperature. In this way, when the shunt form of the throttling heat exchanger is switched, the opening degree of the expansion valve is corrected, and the two are mutually matched, so that the damage to the system is reduced, the system can quickly respond, and the effect of rapid refrigeration is ensured. The application also discloses a device for controlling an air conditioner, an air conditioner and a storage medium.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of intelligent household appliances, for example to a method and device for controlling an air conditioner, an air conditioner and a storage medium. BACKGROUND

[0002] An air conditioner is an air conditioning device commonly used in daily production and life. To ensure the market competitiveness of air conditioners and the needs of users, most air conditioners have a rapid cooling function.

[0003] A related art discloses a method for controlling the opening degree of an electronic expansion valve when an air conditioner starts. The method is as follows: according to the stop time before the start of the compressor and the outdoor environment temperature, it is determined whether the current start is a cold start state, a hot start state or an intermediate start state; according to the start state, the holding time of the initial opening degree of the electronic expansion valve is determined; the operating frequency of the compressor is obtained, and the indoor and outdoor environment temperatures are obtained; the initial opening degree of the electronic expansion valve is calculated according to the operating frequency of the compressor, the indoor and outdoor environment temperatures; after the electronic expansion valve maintains the initial opening degree for the holding time, it enters the normal electronic expansion valve control. During the holding time of the initial opening degree of the electronic expansion valve, it is determined whether to exit the initial opening degree in advance and enter the normal electronic expansion valve control according to the change rate of the exhaust temperature.

[0004] In the above rapid cooling method, the system will be damaged irreversibly. For example, in high-temperature weather, the exhaust temperature is too high to achieve rapid cooling, which sharply reduces the service life of the exhaust pipe. Moreover, when the opening degree of the expansion valve is adjusted based on the exhaust temperature, the exhaust temperature often has a certain hysteresis, and its change cannot accurately reflect whether the opening degree of the expansion valve needs to be adjusted. Ultimately, the rapid cooling effect is not ideal. SUMMARY

[0005] To have a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed embodiments, a brief summary is given below. The summary is not a general review, nor is it intended to determine key / important components or delineate the scope of protection of these embodiments, but as a prelude to the detailed description below.

[0006] The embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method and device for controlling an air conditioner, an air conditioner and a storage medium, to reduce the damage of rapid cooling to the system and ensure the rapid cooling effect.

[0007] In some embodiments, the air conditioner comprises: a refrigerant circulation loop; the refrigerant circulation loop comprises: an expansion valve and a throttling heat exchanger; the throttling heat exchanger comprises: a plurality of heat exchange branches, each heat exchange branch being capable of switching between a parallel connection state and a series connection state; the method comprises: in the case that the air conditioner is running in a cooling mode and an outdoor environment temperature meets a preset condition, switching the connection state of each heat exchange branch; controlling the expansion valve to open to a preset opening degree; and correcting the opening degree of the expansion valve according to an indoor coil temperature.

[0008] In some embodiments, the device comprises: a processor and a memory storing program instructions, the processor being configured to execute the foregoing method for controlling an air conditioner when running the program instructions.

[0009] In some embodiments, the air conditioner comprises: a refrigerant circulation loop; the refrigerant circulation loop comprises: an expansion valve and a throttling heat exchanger; the throttling heat exchanger comprises: a plurality of heat exchange branches, each heat exchange branch being capable of switching between a parallel connection state and a series connection state; and the foregoing device for controlling an air conditioner.

[0010] In some embodiments, the storage medium stores program instructions, the program instructions being executed to perform the foregoing method for controlling an air conditioner.

[0011] The method, device, air conditioner and storage medium for controlling an air conditioner provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure can achieve the following technical effects:

[0012] When the air conditioner is running in cooling, if an outdoor environment temperature meets a preset condition, the connection state of each heat exchange branch is switched. Thus, the connection state of each heat exchange branch can be reduced at high temperature. While achieving rapid cooling, the system pressure can be effectively reduced, and the damage to the system is reduced. At the same time, the expansion valve is controlled to open to a preset opening degree, and the preset opening degree is corrected based on an indoor coil temperature. In this way, the correction of the opening degree of the expansion valve in combination with the switching of the connection state of each heat exchange branch enables the air conditioner system to quickly respond, thereby achieving the purpose of rapid cooling. In this way, when the split form of the throttling heat exchanger is switched, the opening degree of the expansion valve is corrected, and the two are mutually coordinated, which can reduce the damage to the system and enable the system to quickly respond, thereby ensuring the effect of rapid cooling.

[0013] The foregoing general description and the following description are merely exemplary and explanatory, and are not intended to limit the present application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] One or more embodiments are exemplified by the accompanying drawings corresponding thereto, which are exemplary and explanatory, and do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments, elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are shown as similar elements, the drawings do not constitute a proportional limitation, and wherein:

[0015] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a throttling heat exchanger provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 2 is a refrigerant flow schematic diagram of the throttling heat exchanger as an outdoor heat exchanger when an air conditioner provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure is running in a heating operating mode;

[0017] Figure 3 is a refrigerant flow schematic diagram of the throttling heat exchanger as an outdoor heat exchanger when an air conditioner provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure is running in a cooling operating mode;

[0018] Figure 4 is a structural schematic diagram of a first distributor provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 5 is a structural schematic diagram of another first distributor provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 6 is a refrigerant flow schematic diagram when a first refrigerant circulation loop of an air conditioner provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure is connected;

[0021] Figure 7 is a refrigerant flow schematic diagram when a second refrigerant circulation loop of an air conditioner provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure is connected;

[0022] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of one method for controlling an air conditioner provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of another method for controlling an air conditioner provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of another method for controlling an air conditioner provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of another method for controlling an air conditioner provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of another method for controlling an air conditioner provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 13 is an application schematic diagram provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of a device for controlling an air conditioner provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 15is another schematic diagram of an apparatus for controlling an air conditioner provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] Reference signs:

[0031] 1, compressor; 2, outdoor heat exchanger; 3, indoor heat exchanger; 4, first pipeline; 5, second pipeline; 6, third pipeline; 7, fourth pipeline; 8, fifth pipeline; 9, first on-off valve; 10, second on-off valve; 11, third on-off valve; 12, fourth on-off valve; 13, expansion valve;

[0032] 200, throttling heat exchanger; 210, heat exchange pipeline; 211, first heat exchange branch; 212, second heat exchange branch; 213, third heat exchange branch; 221, first distributor; 222, second distributor; 223, third distributor; 224, fourth distributor; 2211, first distribution branch pipe; 2212, second distribution branch pipe; 2213, collecting pipe; 2214, collecting cavity; 2215, first branch cavity; 2216, second branch cavity; 2217, first pipe section; 2218, second pipe section; 231, first throttling element; 232, second throttling element; 240, bypass pipeline; 241, electromagnetic valve. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] In order to enable a more detailed understanding of the features and technical content of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the implementation of the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are only used for reference and do not limit the embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following technical description, in order to facilitate explanation, a plurality of details are provided to provide a full understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, one or more embodiments can still be implemented without these details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices can be simplified to facilitate the drawings.

[0034] The terms "first", "second", and the like in the specification and claims of the embodiments of the present disclosure and the above drawings are used to distinguish similar objects, and do not necessarily have to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that the data thus used can be interchanged under appropriate circumstances, so that the embodiments of the present disclosure described herein can be implemented. In addition, the terms "include" and "have" and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0035] Unless otherwise specified, the term "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0036] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, the character " / " represents an "or" relationship between the objects before and after it. For example, A / B means A or B.

[0037] The term "and / or" is a descriptive association relationship, which means that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B means that there are three relationships of A or B, or A and B.

[0038] The term "corresponds to" can refer to an association relationship or a binding relationship. A corresponds to B means that there is an association relationship or a binding relationship between A and B.

[0039] The air conditioner comprises an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit is provided with an indoor heat exchanger, an indoor fan and the like, which can be used to realize functions such as heat exchange with the indoor environment in cooperation with the refrigerant. The outdoor unit is provided with an outdoor heat exchanger, an outdoor fan, a compressor and a gas-liquid separator and the like, which can be used to realize functions such as heat exchange with the outdoor environment in cooperation with the refrigerant, refrigerant compression, refrigerant throttling and the like.

[0040] The indoor heat exchanger, the outdoor heat exchanger, the compressor and the gas-liquid separator and the like are connected through a refrigerant pipeline to jointly constitute a refrigerant circulation system for circulating and conveying the refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor units. The optimal flow path required by the outdoor heat exchanger is different when the air conditioner is running in a cooling mode and a heating mode. The throttling heat exchanger of the present embodiment realizes that when the air conditioner is running in a cooling mode, the heat exchange branch of the throttling heat exchanger is less, and at the same time, when the air conditioner is running in a heating mode, the heat exchange branch of the throttling heat exchanger is more, and the throttling heat exchanger realizes variable flow distribution of the refrigerant flow path, which can simultaneously make the air conditioner have the optimal flow path in the cooling mode and the heating mode. Figure 2 and Figure 3 as shown.

[0041] In combination with Figure 1 as shown, the present embodiment simultaneously provides a throttling heat exchanger. The throttling heat exchanger 200 comprises a heat exchange pipeline 210, a first distributor 221 and a throttling element. The heat exchange pipeline 210 comprises a plurality of heat exchange branches connected in parallel, the first distributor 221 comprises a main pipe and a plurality of branch pipes, the plurality of branch pipes are connected in communication with the plurality of heat exchange branches, and the throttling element is arranged between the heat exchange branch and the first distributor 221 to throttle the refrigerant after being distributed by the first distributor 221 and before entering the heat exchange branch.

[0042] It can be understood that, in combination with Figure 2 and Figure 3 as shown, when the flow direction of the refrigerant in the throttling heat exchanger 200 is different, the connection form of each heat exchange branch is also different, which specifically manifests as that the plurality of heat exchange branches are connected in parallel in communication, or the heat exchange branches are reduced. In this way, the variable flow distribution of the throttling heat exchanger 200 is realized.

[0043] As Figure 1As shown, the throttling heat exchanger 200 provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure is provided with a throttling element between the heat exchange branch and the first distributor 221, which can throttle the refrigerant after being distributed by the first distributor 221 and before entering the heat exchange branch. That is, the refrigerant flowing into the outdoor heat exchanger is not throttled before being distributed by the first distributor 221, at this time, the liquid content of the refrigerant entering the first distributor 221 is relatively high, which improves the distribution uniformity of the first distributor 221, and further improves the heat exchange uniformity of the throttling heat exchanger 200.

[0044] Optionally, the first distributor 221 includes a first distribution branch pipe 2211 and a second distribution branch pipe 2212. The first distribution branch pipe 2211 is in communication with one or more heat exchange branches, and the second distribution branch pipe 2212 is in communication with one or more heat exchange branches. The first distribution branch pipe 2211 is provided with a first throttling element 231, and the second distribution branch pipe 2212 is provided with a second throttling element.

[0045] A throttling element is arranged at each distribution branch pipe of the first distributor 221 to throttle the refrigerant flowing out of the different distribution branch pipes, respectively. For example, Figure 1 As shown.

[0046] Optionally, the heat exchange pipeline 210 includes an upper heat exchange pipeline and a lower heat exchange pipeline. The upper heat exchange pipeline includes the first heat exchange branch 211 and the second heat exchange branch 212 in communication, and the lower heat exchange pipeline includes the third heat exchange branch 213. The refrigerant outlet of the first heat exchange branch 211 and the second heat exchange branch 212 is in communication with the second distributor 222, the refrigerant inlet of the second heat exchange branch 212 and the third heat exchange branch 213 is in communication with the third distributor 223, and the refrigerant inlet of the first heat exchange branch 211 is in communication with the fourth distributor 224. The first throttling element 231 is arranged between the first distribution branch pipe 2211 and the second distributor 222, and the second throttling element 232 is arranged between the second distribution branch pipe 2212 and the third heat exchange branch 213. Optionally, the throttling heat exchanger 200 further includes a bypass pipeline 240. The bypass pipeline 240 is in communication with the third distributor 223 and the fourth distributor 224, and the bypass pipeline 240 is provided with an electromagnetic valve 241.

[0047] When the air conditioner operates in a heating condition and the throttling heat exchanger 200 is used as an outdoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant flow path in the throttling heat exchanger 200 is as follows Figure 2As shown in FIG. 6, the electromagnetic valve 241 between the fourth distributor 224 and the third distributor 223 is controlled to be open, and the electronic expansion valve between the second distributor 222 and the first distributor 2211 is controlled to be open. Specifically, the low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant enters the first distributor 221 through the main pipe of the throttling heat exchanger 200, and then flows into the first throttling element 231 and the second throttling element 232. The refrigerant passing through the first throttling element 231 flows into the first heat exchange branch 211 and the second heat exchange branch 212 through the second distributor 222, and the refrigerant passing through the second throttling element 232 flows into the third heat exchange branch 213. The refrigerant in the second heat exchange branch 212 and the third heat exchange branch 213 flows out through the third distributor 223 and the fourth distributor 224, and the refrigerant in the first heat exchange branch 211 flows out through the fourth distributor 224. That is, the first heat exchange branch 211, the second heat exchange branch 212, and the third heat exchange branch 213 are in parallel connection in the heating mode.

[0048] When the air conditioner operates in the refrigeration mode and the throttling heat exchanger 200 is used as an outdoor heat exchanger, the flow path of the refrigerant in the throttling heat exchanger 200 is as shown in FIG. 7. Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 7, the electromagnetic valve 241 between the fourth distributor 224 and the third distributor 223 is controlled to be closed, and the electronic expansion valve between the second distributor 222 and the first distributor 2211 is controlled to be closed. Specifically, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant enters the fourth distributor 224 through the other main pipe of the throttling heat exchanger 200, and then flows into the first heat exchange branch 211, the second heat exchange branch 212, and the third heat exchange branch 213. The refrigerant flowing out of the third heat exchange branch 213 flows into the first heat exchange branch 211 through the second throttling element 232, and then flows out through the first distributor 221. That is, the first heat exchange branch 211, the second heat exchange branch 212, and the third heat exchange branch 213 are in series connection in the refrigeration mode.

[0049] Optionally, the first throttling element 231 is an electronic expansion valve. In this way, the flow path of the refrigerant in the throttling heat exchanger 200 can be changed by controlling the opening or closing of the electronic expansion valve.

[0050] In order to realize variable distribution of the outdoor heat exchanger, the position of the electronic expansion valve can also be provided with a one-way valve. Optionally, the second throttling element 232 is a capillary tube.

[0051] Optionally, the first distributor comprises a housing and a manifold 2213. The housing has a distribution cavity inside, and the housing is provided with a first distribution port and a second distribution port. The manifold 2213 comprises a first pipe segment 2217 and a second pipe segment 2218 which are communicated by bending. The first pipe segment 2217 is directly communicated with the distribution cavity. The first distribution branch pipe 2211 is communicated with the distribution cavity through the first distribution port, and the second distribution branch pipe 2212 is communicated with the distribution cavity through the second distribution port. As shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5 .

[0052] Optionally, the distribution cavity comprises a manifold cavity 2214, a first branch cavity 2215 and a second branch cavity 2216. The first distribution branch pipe 2211 is communicated with the first branch cavity 2215 through the first distribution port, and the second distribution branch pipe 2212 is communicated with the second branch cavity 2216 through the second distribution port.

[0053] The manifold 2213 comprises the first pipe segment 2217 and the second pipe segment 2218. The axes of the first pipe segment 2217 and the second pipe segment 2218 are located in a first plane, and the included angle between the first plane and the second plane is e. As shown in Figure 5 . The first plane is non-perpendicular to the second plane, which can be understood as that the included angle e between the first plane and the second plane is less than 90°. Optionally, the included angle between the first plane and the second plane is measured by the acute angle formed by the two planes. The first plane is non-perpendicular to the second plane, so that the amount of refrigerant entering the first distribution branch pipe 2211 and the second distribution branch pipe 2212 through the first pipe segment 2217 is different. For example, when the included angle between the first plane and the second plane is on the side of the first distribution branch pipe 2211, under the action of gravity, the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing to the second distribution branch pipe 2212 is greater than the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing to the first distribution branch pipe 2211. Similarly, when the included angle between the first plane and the second plane is on the side of the second distribution branch pipe 2212, under the action of gravity, the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing to the first distribution branch pipe 2211 is greater than the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing to the second distribution branch pipe 2212.

[0054] As shown in the throttling heat exchanger, Figure 2 , the refrigerant is distributed by the first distributor 221 and flows into three parallel heat exchange branches. Among them, as shown in the direction of Figure 2 , the refrigerant flows into only the third heat exchange branch 213 after passing through the distribution branch pipe on the left side of the first distributor 221, and the refrigerant flows into two heat exchange branches after passing through the distribution branch pipe on the right side of the first distributor 221. It can be seen that the amount of refrigerant required by the two distribution branch pipes of the first distributor 221 is different after the refrigerant passes through the first distributor 221. As shown in Figure 2The throttle heat exchanger shown, the right side of the liquid branch pipe required refrigerant amount is about the left side of the liquid branch pipe refrigerant amount of 2 times. The distributor provided by the embodiment of the disclosure utilizes the gravity of the refrigerant in the flow process, and realizes that the refrigerant flow out of different liquid branch pipes of the distributor is different by setting the included angle between the first plane where the axes of the first pipe section 2217 and the second pipe section 2218 of the collecting pipe 2213 are located and the second plane where the axes of the first liquid branch pipe 2211 and the second liquid branch pipe 2212 are located, thereby meeting the requirement that the required refrigerant amount of the liquid branch pipe is different, and further improving the heat exchange efficiency of the throttle heat exchanger.

[0055] Optionally, the included angle between the first plane and the second plane is less than 90 degrees, so that the refrigerant realizes deflection under the action of gravity after flowing through the first pipe section 2217 of the collecting pipe 2213, and further makes the refrigerant flow into the first liquid branch pipe 2211 and the second liquid branch pipe 2212 different.

[0056] Optionally, the inner diameter of the first pipe section 2217 of the collecting pipe 2213 is greater than the inner diameter of the first liquid branch pipe 2211.

[0057] Optionally, the inner diameter of the first liquid branch pipe 2211 is greater than the inner diameter of the second liquid branch pipe 2212. Optionally, the first pipe section 2217 of the collecting pipe 2213 is obliquely arranged to the side of the second liquid branch pipe 2212, and further cooperates with the inner diameter of the first liquid branch pipe 2211 being greater than the inner diameter of the second liquid branch pipe 2212 to make more refrigerant flow into the first liquid branch pipe 2211, thereby further increasing the refrigerant flow difference between the two liquid branch pipes.

[0058] By setting the included angle between the first plane where the axes of the first pipe section 2217 and the second pipe section 2218 of the collecting pipe 2213 are located and the second plane where the axes of the two liquid branch pipes are located, and further cooperating with the inner diameter difference between the two liquid branch pipes, the refrigerant flow ratio of the two liquid branch pipes can be 2:1-7:1, or even larger refrigerant distribution requirements within the allowable range of the heat exchange pipe diameter of the heat exchanger. The inner diameter of the second liquid branch pipe 2212 does not need to be designed too small, and the flow of the refrigerant in the first liquid branch pipe 2211 can be much greater than the flow of the refrigerant in the second liquid branch pipe 2212. Therefore, the refrigerant distribution scheme of the distributor provided by the embodiment of the disclosure avoids the problem that the total pressure drop of the liquid branch pipe and the heat exchanger of the distributor is too large when the refrigerant distribution of the two liquid branch pipes is relatively large.

[0059] Optionally, the included angle between the first plane where the axes of the first pipe section 2217 and the second pipe section 2218 of the collecting pipe 2213 are located and the second plane where the axes of the two liquid branch pipes are located is greater than or equal to 50 degrees and less than or equal to 70 degrees. The difference between the refrigerant flow in the first liquid branch pipe 2211 and the second liquid branch pipe 2212 is improved.

[0060] Optionally, the second pipe section 2218 of the manifold pipe 2213 is arranged to be inclined to the second distribution branch pipe 2212.

[0061] In combination Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioner provided by the embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first refrigerant circulation loop and a second refrigerant circulation loop.

[0062] The compressor 1 is connected to the fourth distributor 224 of the throttling heat exchanger 200 through a first pipe 4. The first distributor 221 is connected to the indoor heat exchanger 3 through a second pipe 5. The indoor heat exchanger 3 is connected to the compressor 1 through a third pipe 6. In this way, the compressor 1, the first pipe 4, the throttling heat exchanger 200, the second pipe 5, the indoor heat exchanger 3 and the third pipe 6 form the first refrigerant circulation loop.

[0063] A first end of a fourth pipe 7 is connected to a first position on the first pipe 4, and a second end is connected to a second position on the second pipe 5. A first end of a fifth pipe 8 is connected to a third position on the first pipe 4, and a second end is connected to a fourth position on the second pipe 5. In this way, the compressor 1, the fourth pipe 7, the throttling heat exchanger 200, the fifth pipe 8, the indoor heat exchanger 3 and the third pipe 6 form the second refrigerant circulation loop.

[0064] A first on-off valve 9 is arranged on the first pipe 4, and the first on-off valve 9 is located between the first position and the third position. A second on-off valve 10 is arranged on the second pipe 5, and the second on-off valve 10 is located between the second position and the fourth position. A third on-off valve 11 is arranged on the fourth pipe 7. A fourth on-off valve 12 is arranged on the fifth pipe 8. By switching the on-off state of the first refrigerant circulation loop and the second refrigerant circulation loop, the heat exchange branches can be switched between the parallel connection state and the series connection state.

[0065] In combination Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 2, the first on-off valve 9 and the second on-off valve 10 are controlled to be opened, and the solenoid valve 241 and the electronic expansion valve 231 are controlled to be closed, so that the first refrigerant circulation loop is connected, and at the same time, the third on-off valve 11 and the fourth on-off valve 12 are controlled to be closed, so that the second refrigerant circulation loop is disconnected. In this way, the heat exchange branches can be in the series connection state.

[0066] In combination Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 3, the first on-off valve 9 and the second on-off valve 10 are controlled to be closed, and at the same time, the third on-off valve 11 and the fourth on-off valve 12 are controlled to be opened, and the solenoid valve 241 and the electronic expansion valve 231 are controlled to be turned on, so that the second refrigerant circulation loop is connected. In this way, the heat exchange branches can be in the parallel connection state.

[0067] An expansion valve 13 is arranged on the second pipeline 5. The expansion valve 13 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 3 and the fourth position. By controlling the opening degree of the expansion valve 13, the refrigerant flow between the outdoor heat exchanger 2 and the indoor heat exchanger 3 can be controlled. The expansion valve 13 is opened regardless of whether the heat exchange branches are in series or parallel connection, to ensure normal circulation of the refrigerant.

[0068] The air conditioner described above can be a single-cooling air conditioner or a cooling and heating air conditioner. When it is a cooling and heating air conditioner, the air conditioner further comprises a four-way valve.

[0069] In combination Figure 8 As shown in the drawings, the embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for controlling an air conditioner, comprising:

[0070] S801, the processor switches the connection state of each heat exchange branch when the air conditioner runs in a cooling mode and the outdoor environment temperature meets a preset condition.

[0071] S802, the processor controls the expansion valve to open to a preset opening degree.

[0072] S803, the processor corrects the opening degree of the expansion valve according to the inner coil temperature.

[0073] When the air conditioner is turned on and runs in a cooling mode, the outdoor environment temperature is obtained. Optionally, the outdoor unit of the air conditioner is provided with a temperature sensor. The processor of the air conditioner is in communication connection with the temperature sensor to obtain the outdoor environment temperature in real time. Alternatively, the processor of the air conditioner is in communication connection with a cloud server to obtain the outdoor environment temperature in real time through a network. When the outdoor environment temperature meets a preset condition, i.e. the outdoor environment temperature is high, the connection state of each heat exchange branch is controlled to switch to reduce the pressure loss. Then the expansion valve is controlled to open to a preset opening degree to facilitate the oil return of the compressor. The inner coil temperature is detected. On the basis of the preset opening degree, the opening degree of the expansion valve is corrected according to the inner coil temperature.

[0074] In the embodiment of the present disclosure, when the air conditioner runs in cooling, if the outdoor environment temperature meets a preset condition, the connection state of each heat exchange branch is controlled to switch. In this way, the connection state of each heat exchange branch can reduce the pressure loss at high temperature. While achieving rapid cooling, the system pressure can be effectively reduced, reducing the damage to the system. At the same time, the expansion valve is controlled to open to a preset opening degree, and the preset opening degree is corrected based on the inner coil temperature. In this way, the correction of the opening degree of the expansion valve cooperates with the switching of the connection state of each heat exchange branch, so that the air conditioning system quickly reacts, thereby achieving the purpose of rapid cooling. In this way, when the split form of the throttling heat exchanger is switched, the opening degree of the expansion valve is corrected, and the two cooperate with each other, which can not only reduce the damage to the system, but also make the system quickly react to ensure the effect of rapid cooling.

[0075] As can be seen from the above, when the throttling heat exchanger is used as the outdoor heat exchanger, if the air conditioner is running in the cooling mode, each heat exchange branch is in the series connection state. Alternatively, the preset condition includes that the outdoor environment temperature T 外 is greater than a temperature threshold T m . Alternatively, the temperature threshold is 43℃. If the outdoor temperature is greater than the temperature threshold, it means that the outdoor environment temperature is too high. At this time, if the series connection state is continued to be used, i.e., the single-path operation, the higher the environment temperature, the greater the pressure loss, and the greater the capacity loss. Therefore, the processor needs to control the connection state of each heat exchange branch to switch, i.e., control the connection state of each heat exchange branch to switch from the series connection state to the parallel connection state. In this way, when the outdoor environment temperature is high, the throttling heat exchanger is enabled to run in the multi-path mode, thereby reducing the pressure loss and reducing the damage to the system, so that the cooling capacity of the air conditioner can be better exerted.

[0076] Alternatively, the processor controls the first on-off valve and the second on-off valve to be closed to control the first refrigerant circulation loop to be disconnected, and controls the third on-off valve and the fourth on-off valve to be opened and the solenoid valve and the electronic expansion valve to be turned on to control the second refrigerant circulation loop to be connected. In this way, each heat exchange branch can be in the parallel connection state.

[0077] The opening degree of the expansion valve affects the oil return effect of the compressor. If the opening degree of the expansion valve is small, the throttling is small, and the oil return is small. This may cause the oil of the compressor to be insufficient within a certain time, thereby causing the compressor to be worn relatively large. If the opening degree of the expansion valve is large, the mixing degree of the refrigerant and the oil is not high enough. The condenser temperature increases relatively slowly. This is not conducive to the mixing between the oil and the refrigerant, and can inhibit the oil from returning to the compressor. Therefore, the preset opening degree of the expansion valve is an opening degree that can enable the compressor of the air conditioner to achieve a good oil return. For example, the preset opening degree is 300 steps. The preset opening degree can be adaptively adjusted for different air conditioning systems.

[0078] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 9 , the embodiment of the present disclosure provides another method for controlling an air conditioner, which comprises the following steps:

[0079] S801, the processor switches the connection state of each heat exchange branch when the air conditioner is running in the cooling mode and the outdoor environment temperature meets a preset condition.

[0080] S802, the processor controls the expansion valve to be opened to a preset opening degree.

[0081] S813, the processor negatively corrects the opening degree of the expansion valve when the inlet temperature is greater than the outlet temperature.

[0082] S823, the processor corrects the opening degree of the expansion valve according to the temperature difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature when the inlet temperature is less than the outlet temperature.

[0083] The inlet and outlet of the inner coil are provided with temperature sensors to obtain the inlet temperature T1 and the outlet temperature T2. The inlet temperature T1 and the outlet temperature T2 are compared. If T1>T2, it means that the refrigerant is released too much, which means that the opening degree of the expansion valve is too large. At this time, the refrigerant changes phase in the inner coil, for example, from gas to liquid, or from gas to gas-liquid two-phase, but there is no temperature transfer. This will cause the inlet temperature to be higher than the outlet temperature. At this time, the temperature of the inner coil is quite different from the user's demand, therefore, the opening degree of the expansion valve is negatively corrected, that is, the opening degree of the expansion valve is reduced. Alternatively, the opening degree of the expansion valve is reduced at a first rate V1. If T1<T2, the temperature difference ΔT between the outlet temperature and the inlet temperature is further calculated. The opening degree of the expansion valve is corrected according to the temperature difference. In this way, the opening degree of the expansion valve is adjusted based on the size of the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature. The refrigerant can be temperature-transferred, which is beneficial to heat exchange, and thus rapid refrigeration is realized.

[0084] Alternatively, in combination with Figure 10 As shown in the figure, the embodiment of the present disclosure provides another method for controlling an air conditioner, comprising:

[0085] S801, the processor switches the communication state of each heat exchange branch under the condition that the air conditioner operates in a refrigeration mode and the outdoor environment temperature meets a preset condition.

[0086] S802, the processor controls the expansion valve to open to a preset opening degree.

[0087] S813, the processor negatively corrects the opening degree of the expansion valve under the condition that the inlet temperature is greater than the outlet temperature.

[0088] S8123, the processor calculates the temperature difference between the outlet temperature and the inlet temperature under the condition that the inlet temperature is less than the outlet temperature.

[0089] S8223, the processor controls the expansion valve to maintain the current opening degree under the condition that the temperature difference is greater than or equal to a temperature difference threshold.

[0090] S8323, the processor negatively corrects the opening degree of the expansion valve under the condition that the temperature difference is less than the temperature difference threshold.

[0091] A temperature difference threshold ΔT' is set to define the degree of difference between the outlet temperature and the inlet temperature. The temperature difference ΔT and the temperature difference threshold ΔT' are compared. If ΔT ≥ ΔT', it indicates that the temperature difference between the outlet temperature and the inlet temperature is large. The larger the temperature difference, the better the heat exchange, and the larger the refrigerating capacity, that is, the fast refrigeration can be achieved. At this time, the control of the expansion valve is kept at the current opening. If ΔT < ΔT', it indicates that the temperature difference between the outlet temperature and the inlet temperature is small. At this time, the refrigerating capacity is small. In order to achieve fast refrigeration, the opening of the expansion valve is negatively corrected, that is, the opening of the expansion valve is controlled to be smaller. Alternatively, the opening of the expansion valve is controlled to decrease at a second rate V2. In this way, when the inlet temperature is less than the outlet temperature, the opening of the expansion valve is further corrected based on the temperature difference. The opening of the expansion valve is accurately corrected to ensure the effect of fast refrigeration.

[0092] Alternatively, V1 > V2. Alternatively, V1 is 3 steps per second, and V2 is 2 steps per second. This is because when ΔT < ΔT', the temperature difference between the outlet temperature and the inlet temperature is small compared with the user's demand. If the opening of the expansion valve is adjusted at a larger rate, it is easy to cause overshoot, resulting in excessive throttling. Therefore, the opening of the expansion valve is adjusted at a smaller rate, which can accurately control the opening of the expansion valve.

[0093] Alternatively, in combination with Figure 11 As shown in FIG. 1, the embodiment of the present disclosure provides another method for controlling an air conditioner, comprising:

[0094] S801, the processor switches the communication state of each heat exchange branch when the air conditioner operates in a refrigeration mode and the outdoor environment temperature meets a preset condition.

[0095] S802, the processor controls the expansion valve to open to a preset opening.

[0096] S803, the processor corrects the opening of the expansion valve according to the inner coil temperature.

[0097] S804, the processor acquires the inlet air temperature of the indoor unit.

[0098] S805, the processor controls the expansion valve to keep the current opening when the difference between the inlet air temperature and the set temperature is within a preset range.

[0099] The inlet of the indoor unit is provided with a temperature sensor in communication connection with the air conditioner processor. After the opening of the expansion valve is corrected, the inlet air temperature of the indoor unit is acquired in real time through the temperature sensor. The absolute value of the difference between the inlet air temperature T 进 and the set temperature T 设 is calculated as |T 进 -T 设| When the absolute value is within the preset range, it is determined that the opening degree of the expansion valve at this time meets the user's cooling demand. Then the control expansion valve remains at the current opening degree. That is, if the absolute value is not within the preset range, the opening degree of the expansion valve continues to be corrected. Until the absolute value is within the preset range, the correction of the opening degree of the expansion valve is stopped. In this way, whether the indoor temperature at this time meets the user's cooling demand is judged by the inlet air temperature of the indoor unit. In the case of meeting the cooling demand, the expansion valve is kept at the current opening degree, so that the cooling capacity of the air conditioner matches the user's demand.

[0100] Optionally, in combination with Figure 12 As shown in the figure, the embodiment of the present disclosure provides another method for controlling an air conditioner, comprising:

[0101] S801, the processor switches the communication state of each heat exchange branch under the condition that the air conditioner runs in a cooling mode and the outdoor environment temperature meets a preset condition.

[0102] S806, the processor controls the compressor of the air conditioner to run at a preset frequency.

[0103] S802, the processor controls the expansion valve to open to a preset opening degree.

[0104] S803, the processor corrects the opening degree of the expansion valve according to the temperature of the indoor coil.

[0105] S804, the processor acquires the inlet air temperature of the indoor unit.

[0106] S805, the processor controls the expansion valve to remain at the current opening degree under the condition that the difference between the inlet air temperature and the set temperature is within a preset range.

[0107] After switching each heat exchange branch to the parallel communication state, the compressor of the air conditioner is controlled to run at a preset frequency, so as to facilitate the oil return of the compressor. Optionally, the preset frequency is the highest frequency of the oil return of the compressor. Then the expansion valve is controlled to open to a preset opening degree. In this way, the opening degree of the expansion valve is matched with the running frequency of the compressor, so that the oil return effect of the compressor reaches a better state.

[0108] In actual application, as Figure 13 shown:

[0109] S1301, the air conditioner starts and runs in a cooling mode.

[0110] S1302, the processor acquires the outdoor environment temperature T 外 in real time.

[0111] S1303, the processor judges whether T 外 > T m ; if yes, S1305 is executed; if no, S1304 is executed.

[0112] S1304, the processor controls the air conditioner to keep the current operation state.

[0113] S1305, the processor controls each heat exchange branch to switch to the parallel connection state.

[0114] S1306, the processor controls the compressor to operate at the highest oil return frequency.

[0115] S1307, the processor controls the expansion valve to open to a preset opening degree.

[0116] S1308, the processor acquires the inlet temperature T1 and the outlet temperature T2 of the inner coil.

[0117] S1309, the processor determines whether T1>T2 is met; if yes, S1310 is executed; if no, S1311 is executed.

[0118] S1310, the processor controls the opening degree of the expansion valve to decrease by 3 steps / s; and then S1315 is executed.

[0119] S1311, the processor calculates the difference ΔT between T2 and T1.

[0120] S1312, the processor determines whether ΔT≥ΔT' is met; if yes, S1313 is executed, and then S1315 is executed; if no, S1314 is executed, and then S1315 is executed.

[0121] S1313, the processor controls the expansion valve to keep the current opening degree.

[0122] S1314, the processor controls the opening degree of the expansion valve to decrease by 2 steps / s.

[0123] S1315, the processor acquires the inlet air temperature of the indoor unit in real time.

[0124] S1316, the processor calculates |T 进 -T 设 |.

[0125] S1317, the processor determines whether |T 进 -T 设 | is within a preset range; if yes, S1318 is executed; if no, S1309 is executed.

[0126] S1318, the processor controls the expansion valve to keep the current opening degree.

[0127] In combination Figure 14As shown, the embodiment of the present disclosure provides a device for controlling an air conditioner, comprising a switching module 141, a control module 142 and a correction module 143. The switching module 141 is configured to switch the connection state of each heat exchange branch when the air conditioner operates in a cooling mode and the outdoor ambient temperature meets a preset condition. The control module 142 is configured to control the expansion valve to open to a preset opening degree. The correction module 143 is configured to correct the opening degree of the expansion valve according to the inner coil temperature.

[0128] The device for controlling an air conditioner provided by the embodiment of the present disclosure can switch the connection state of each heat exchange branch when the air conditioner operates in a cooling mode if the outdoor ambient temperature meets a preset condition. In this way, the connection state of each heat exchange branch can be reduced at high temperature. While achieving rapid cooling, the system pressure can be effectively reduced, and the damage to the system is reduced. At the same time, the expansion valve is controlled to open to a preset opening degree, and the preset opening degree is corrected based on the inner coil temperature. In this way, the correction of the opening degree of the expansion valve cooperates with the switching of the connection state of each heat exchange branch, so that the air conditioner system can quickly respond, thereby achieving the purpose of rapid cooling. In this way, when the split form of the throttling heat exchanger is switched, the opening degree of the expansion valve is corrected, and the two cooperate with each other, which can not only reduce the damage to the system, but also make the system quickly respond and ensure the effect of rapid cooling.

[0129] In combination with Figure 15 As shown, the embodiment of the present disclosure provides a device for controlling an air conditioner, comprising a processor 150 and a memory 151. Optionally, the device can further comprise a communication interface 152 and a bus 153. The processor 150, the communication interface 152 and the memory 151 can communicate with each other through the bus 153. The communication interface 152 can be used for information transmission. The processor 150 can call the logic instructions in the memory 151 to execute the method for controlling an air conditioner of the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0130] In addition, the logic instructions in the memory 151 described above can be implemented in the form of a software function unit and sold or used as an independent product, which can be stored in a computer readable storage medium.

[0131] The memory 151 as a computer readable storage medium can be used to store software programs, computer executable programs, such as program instructions / modules corresponding to the method in the embodiment of the present disclosure. The processor 150 executes the program instructions / modules stored in the memory 151, thereby executing function applications and data processing, i.e. implementing the method for controlling an air conditioner in the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0132] The memory 151 can include a program area storing an operating system, an application required by at least one function, and a data area storing data created according to use of the terminal device, etc. In addition, the memory 151 can include a high-speed random access memory and can further include a non-volatile memory.

[0133] The embodiment of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner comprising the device for controlling the air conditioner.

[0134] The embodiment of the present disclosure provides a storage medium storing computer executable instructions configured to execute the method for controlling the air conditioner.

[0135] The storage medium described above can be a transitory computer readable storage medium or a non-transitory computer readable storage medium.

[0136] The above description and drawings are only illustrative of the embodiments of the present disclosure and enable those skilled in the art to practice them. Other embodiments can include structural, logical, electrical, process, and other changes. The embodiments only represent possible variations. Unless explicitly required, individual components and functions are optional and the order of operations can be changed. Some parts and features of some embodiments can be included in or replace parts and features of other embodiments. Also, the words used in this application are only used to describe the embodiments and not to limit the claims. As used in the description of the embodiments and the claims, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well. Similarly, the term "and / or" as used in this application refers to any and all possible combinations of one or more associated listed items. In addition, when used in this application, the term "comprise" and its variations "comprises" and / or comprises" and the like mean the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Without more limitations, the element defined by the phrase "comprising a" does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, or device including the element. In this document, each embodiment focuses on the differences from other embodiments, and the same or similar parts between various embodiments can be referred to each other. For the method, product, etc. disclosed by the embodiments, if it corresponds to the method part disclosed by the embodiments, the relevant part can be referred to the description of the method part.

[0137] Those skilled in the art can understand that the units and algorithm steps of each example described in combination with the embodiments disclosed herein can be realized by electronic hardware or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether the functions are realized in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. The skilled person can use different methods for each specific application to realize the described functions, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure. The skilled person can clearly understand that, for the convenience and brevity of description, the specific working processes of the above-described system, device and unit can refer to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0138] In the embodiments disclosed herein, the disclosed methods, products (including but not limited to devices, equipment, etc.) can be implemented in other ways. For example, the above-described device embodiments are only schematic, for example, the division of the units can only be a logical function division, and actual implementation can have another division manner, for example, a plurality of units or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be ignored or not executed. In addition, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection between the units shown or discussed can be indirect coupling or communication connection through some interface, device or unit, and can be electrical, mechanical or other forms. The units described as separate components can or can not be physically separate, and the components shown as units can or can not be physical units, that is, they can be located in one place, or can be distributed on a plurality of network units. Part or all of the units can be selected according to actual needs to implement the embodiments. In addition, each functional unit in the embodiments of the present disclosure can be integrated in one processing unit, or each unit can be a physically independent unit, or two or more units can be integrated in one unit.

[0139] The computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other processing device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other processing device to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

Claims

1. A method for controlling an air conditioner, the air conditioner comprising: Refrigerant circulation loop; The refrigerant circulation loop comprises an expansion valve and a throttling heat exchanger; the throttling heat exchanger comprises a plurality of heat exchange branches, each heat exchange branch being switchable between a parallel connection state and a series connection state, and each heat exchange branch being in the series connection state when the air conditioner is operating in the cooling mode; characterized in that the method comprises: In the case that the air conditioner is operating in the cooling mode and the outdoor environment temperature satisfies a preset condition, the connection state of each heat exchange branch is switched to the parallel connection state; The expansion valve is controlled to open to a preset opening degree; The opening degree of the expansion valve is corrected according to the inner coil temperature; The inner coil temperature comprises an inlet temperature and an outlet temperature of the inner coil; the correction of the opening degree of the expansion valve according to the inner coil temperature comprises: In the case that the inlet temperature is greater than the outlet temperature, the opening degree of the expansion valve is negatively corrected; In the case that the inlet temperature is less than the outlet temperature and the temperature difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature is greater than or equal to a temperature difference threshold, the expansion valve is controlled to maintain the current opening degree; In the case that the inlet temperature is less than the outlet temperature and the temperature difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature is less than the temperature difference threshold, the opening degree of the expansion valve is negatively corrected.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The preset condition comprises: The outdoor environment temperature is greater than a temperature threshold.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, The correction of the opening degree of the expansion valve according to the inner coil temperature comprises: In the case that the inlet temperature is greater than the outlet temperature, the opening degree of the expansion valve is negatively corrected at a first rate; In the case that the inlet temperature is less than the outlet temperature and the temperature difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature is greater than or equal to a temperature difference threshold, the expansion valve is controlled to maintain the current opening degree; In the case that the inlet temperature is less than the outlet temperature and the temperature difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature is less than the temperature difference threshold, the opening degree of the expansion valve is negatively corrected at a second rate; The first rate is greater than the second rate.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The air conditioner further comprises an indoor unit; after the correction of the opening degree of the expansion valve according to the inner coil temperature, the method further comprises: An inlet air temperature of the indoor unit is obtained; In the case that the absolute value of the difference between the inlet air temperature and a set temperature is within a preset range, the expansion valve is controlled to maintain the current opening degree.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, After the switching of the connection state of each heat exchange branch, and before the control of the expansion valve to open to the preset opening degree, the method further comprises: The compressor of the air conditioner is controlled to operate at a preset frequency.

6. An apparatus for controlling an air conditioner, comprising a processor and a memory having stored program instructions, characterized in that, The processor is configured to execute the method for controlling the air conditioner as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5 when the program instructions are executed.

7. An air conditioner comprising: Refrigerant circulation loop; The refrigerant circulation loop comprises an expansion valve and a throttling heat exchanger; the throttling heat exchanger comprises a plurality of heat exchange branches, each heat exchange branch being switchable between a parallel connection state and a series connection state; characterized in that it further comprises the device for controlling the air conditioner as claimed in claim 6.

8. A storage medium storing program instructions, characterized in that, The program instructions, when executed, perform the method for controlling the air conditioner as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6.

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