Cooling devices, air conditioners and control methods for electrical control boxes; control devices

Abstract

This application relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and discloses a cooling device for an electrical control box, an air conditioner, a control method, and a control device. The electrical control box includes a mounting cavity for housing electrical components. The cooling device for the electrical control box includes a housing, a cooling flow path, and a control circuit. The housing is located outside the mounting cavity. The cooling flow path is located within the electrical control box and is used to cool the mounting cavity. The control circuit is located within the housing. The control circuit is connected to the cooling flow path and is used to control the operating state of the cooling flow path. This disclosure separates the control circuit for controlling the cooling flow path from the electrical control box. The heat generated by the electrical components within the electrical control box will not affect the control circuit, and a malfunction in the electrical control box will not affect the operation of the control circuit. This improves the stability of the control circuit's control over the cooling flow path, thereby enabling continuous temperature regulation within the electrical control box and improving operational safety.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of air conditioning technology, such as a cooling device for an electrical control box, an air conditioner and control method, and a control device. Background Technology

[0002] As a core component of the equipment, the electrical control box contains various electrical components. During equipment operation, these components generate heat, and overheating of the control box can damage these components or even cause a fire.

[0003] In related technologies, refrigerant piping is installed inside the electrical control box. The flow of refrigerant regulates the temperature inside the control box, thereby improving the operational stability of the electrical components within the box.

[0004] The electrical control box using the cooling method described in the above embodiment has the following problems:

[0005] In related technologies, when electrical components in an electrical control box are damaged or aged, arcing can occur, causing the control box to malfunction or catch fire, leading to control paralysis.

[0006] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this application, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0007] To provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed embodiments, a brief summary is given below. This summary is not intended as a general commentary, nor is it intended to identify key / important components or describe the scope of protection of these embodiments, but rather as a prelude to the detailed description that follows.

[0008] The present disclosure provides a cooling device, air conditioner, and control method and control device for an electrical control box, which improves the stability of the electrical control box operation and enhances its safety.

[0009] In some embodiments, the electrical control box includes a mounting cavity for placing electrical components. The cooling device for the electrical control box includes: a housing located outside the mounting cavity; a cooling flow path disposed in the electrical control box for cooling the mounting cavity; and a control circuit disposed inside the housing, the control circuit being connected to the cooling flow path for controlling the operating state of the cooling flow path.

[0010] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes: a refrigeration system comprising a compressor, a four-way reversing valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, a throttling device, and an indoor heat exchanger connected in sequence to form a refrigerant flow path; an electrical control box including a mounting cavity for housing electrical components; and a cooling device for the electrical control box as described in the foregoing embodiments, wherein the cooling flow path is arranged in parallel with the throttling device, and both ends of the cooling flow path are respectively connected to the refrigerant flow paths at both ends of the throttling device; wherein the control circuit is used to control the operating state of the cooling flow path according to the temperature inside the mounting cavity.

[0011] In some embodiments, a control method for a cooling device is provided, the cooling device being the cooling device for an electrical control box as described in the preceding embodiments, wherein the cooling flow path of the cooling device is connected to the refrigeration system of an air conditioner; the control method includes: acquiring the temperature inside the electrical control box; controlling the cooling flow path to be in a closed state when the temperature is less than or equal to a first threshold; and controlling the cooling flow path to be in a conductive state when the temperature is greater than the first threshold, so that the cooling flow path is connected to the refrigeration system.

[0012] In some embodiments, a control device for a cooling apparatus is provided, including a processor and a memory storing program instructions, the processor being configured to execute the control method for a cooling apparatus as described in the foregoing embodiments when executing the program instructions.

[0013] The cooling device, air conditioner, control method, and control device for electrical control boxes provided in this disclosure can achieve the following technical effects:

[0014] The cooling device for an electrical control box disclosed herein includes a box body, a cooling flow path, and a control circuit. The box body is installed independently of the electrical control box. The control circuit for controlling the cooling flow path is located inside the box body. The cooling flow path is located within the electrical control box, and it cools the electrical components inside the box to maintain a stable temperature, thereby improving the operational stability of the electrical control box. By separating the control circuit for controlling the cooling flow path from the electrical control box, the heat generated by the electrical components inside the box will not affect the control circuit, and a malfunction in the electrical control box will not affect the operation of the control circuit. This improves the stability of the control circuit's control over the cooling flow path, enabling continuous temperature regulation within the electrical control box. Even if a malfunction occurs inside the electrical control box, the control circuit can still operate normally, improving safety and reducing the risk of electrical control box failure.

[0015] The above general description and the description below are exemplary and illustrative only and are not intended to limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0016] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. These illustrations and drawings do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements having the same reference numerals in the drawings are shown as similar elements. The drawings are not to be scaled. And wherein:

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a cooling device for an electrical control box provided in one embodiment of this disclosure;

[0018] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner system provided in one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the air conditioner operating in cooling mode in the embodiment shown;

[0020] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the air conditioner operating in heating mode according to the embodiment shown;

[0021] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner system provided in another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0022] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the air conditioner operating in cooling mode in the embodiment shown;

[0023] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the air conditioner operating in heating mode according to the embodiment shown;

[0024] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart of a control method for a cooling device provided in one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart of a control method for a cooling device provided in one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 10 This is a schematic flowchart of a control method for a cooling device provided in one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 11 This is a system block diagram of a control device for a cooling device provided in one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure label:

[0029] 1. Air conditioner;

[0030] 100 Cooling device; 110 Housing; 112 Control circuit; 120 Cooling flow path; 121 Refrigeration piping; 122 First pipe body; 123 Second pipe body; 124 First throttling element; 125 Second throttling element; 126 First shut-off valve; 127 Second shut-off valve; 128 Three-position four-way valve; 130 Flow regulating valve; 140 Temperature sensor;

[0031] 200 Electrical control box; 202 Mounting cavity;

[0032] 300 Refrigeration system; 302 Compressor; 304 Four-way reversing valve; 306 Outdoor heat exchanger; 308 Throttling device; 310 Indoor heat exchanger;

[0033] 1100: Control device; 1102: Processor; 1104: Memory; 1106: Communication interface; 1108: Bus. Detailed Implementation

[0034] To provide a more detailed understanding of the features and technical content of the embodiments of this disclosure, the implementation of the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this disclosure. In the following technical description, for ease of explanation, several details are used to provide a full understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, one or more embodiments may still be implemented without these details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices may be simplified in their depiction to simplify the drawings.

[0035] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 1 As shown, a cooling device 100 for an electrical control box is provided. The electrical control box 200 includes a mounting cavity 202 for housing electrical components. The cooling device 100 for the electrical control box includes a housing 110, a cooling flow path 120, and a control circuit 112. The housing 110 is located outside the mounting cavity 202. The cooling flow path 120 is disposed in the electrical control box 200 for cooling the mounting cavity 202. The control circuit 112 is disposed inside the housing 110. The control circuit 112 is connected to the cooling flow path 120 for controlling the operating state of the cooling flow path 120.

[0036] The cooling device 100 for an electrical control box provided in this disclosure includes a housing 110, a cooling flow path 120, and a control circuit 112. The housing 110 is disposed independently of the electrical control box 200. The control circuit 112, used to control the cooling flow path 120, is disposed within the housing 110. The cooling flow path 120 is disposed within the electrical control box 200, and cools the electrical components within the electrical control box 200 to maintain a stable temperature, thereby improving the operational stability of the electrical control box 200. By separating the control circuit 112 from the electrical control box 200, the heat generated by the electrical components within the electrical control box 200 will not affect the control circuit 112, and a malfunction in the electrical control box 200 will not affect the operation of the control circuit 112. This improves the stability of the control circuit 112 in controlling the cooling flow path 120, thereby enabling continuous temperature regulation within the electrical control box 200. Even if a fault occurs inside the electrical control box 200, the control circuit 112 can still operate normally, thus improving safety and reducing the risk of failure of the electrical control box 200.

[0037] Optionally, combined Figure 1 As shown, the cooling device 100 also includes a temperature sensor 140. The temperature sensor 140 is disposed within the mounting cavity 202 and is used to detect the temperature within the mounting cavity 202. The control circuit 112 is connected to the temperature sensor 140. The control circuit 112 receives the temperature within the mounting cavity 202. Based on the temperature and a set threshold, it controls the operating state of the cooling flow path 120 to cool the electrical control box 200 and improve the heat dissipation effect.

[0038] Optionally, the enclosure 110 and the electrical control box 200 are independent of each other. The enclosure 110 is the control enclosure for the cooling flow path, and the enclosure 110 contains a low-voltage control circuit 112, so there is no possibility of fire. The control circuit 112 only receives signals from the temperature sensor 140 in the electrical control box 200 and outputs signals to control the cooling flow path.

[0039] Optionally, combined Figure 1 As shown, the outer wall of the housing 110 is connected to the outer wall of the electrical control box 200, which improves assembly efficiency.

[0040] Optionally, the enclosure 110 and the electrical control box 200 are set separately, which further improves the stability of equipment operation and reduces the impact of the electrical control box 200 on the cooling device 100.

[0041] Optionally, combined Figure 1 As shown, the cooling flow path 120 includes: a refrigeration pipe 121, a first pipe body 122, a second pipe body 123, a first throttling element 124 and a second throttling element 125, a first shut-off valve 126 and a second shut-off valve 127.

[0042] The refrigeration pipe 121 is located in the electrical control box 200 and is used for the capacitive exchange of the heat medium. A first pipe body 122 is connected to one end of the refrigeration pipe 121 and is located outside the electrical control box 200. A second pipe body 123 is connected to the other end of the refrigeration pipe 121 and is located outside the electrical control box 200. A first throttling element 124 is located in the first pipe body 122. A second throttling element 125 is located in the second pipe body 123. A first shut-off valve 126 is connected in parallel with the first throttling element 124. A second shut-off valve 127 is connected in parallel with the second throttling element 125. A control circuit 112 is connected to the first throttling element 124, the second throttling element 125, and the first and second shut-off valves 126 and 127.

[0043] In this embodiment, the first tube 122, the refrigeration pipe 121, and the second tube 123 are sequentially connected to form a cooling flow path 120 for supplying the heat exchange medium. The flow direction of the heat exchange medium entering the first tube 122 is guided by a first throttling element 124 and a first shut-off valve 126. Similarly, the flow direction of the heat exchange medium entering the second tube 123 is guided by a second throttling element 125 and a second shut-off valve 127. This allows for the control of the first throttling element 124, the second throttling element 125, and the first and second shut-off valves 126 and 127 under different operating conditions to determine the flow path of the heat exchange medium, thereby cooling the electrical control box 200 to meet the temperature requirements within the mounting cavity 202 and improving the stability of the electrical components.

[0044] Furthermore, by placing the first pipe body 122 and the second pipe body 123 outside the electrical control box 200, the first throttling element 124, the second throttling element 125, the first shut-off valve 126, and the second shut-off valve 127 used to control the operation of the cooling flow path can all be located outside the electrical control box 200. When overheating occurs inside the electrical control box 200, the first throttling element 124, the second throttling element 125, the first shut-off valve 126, and the second shut-off valve 127 will not be damaged by excessive temperature and can maintain normal operation, thereby regulating the temperature inside the electrical control box 200 and improving the stability and safety of the electrical control box 200 operation.

[0045] Optionally, combined Figure 1As shown, the refrigeration pipe 121 is disposed within the mounting cavity 202. By installing the refrigeration pipe 121 within the mounting cavity 202, the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigeration pipe 121 and the electrical components within the mounting cavity 202 can be improved, thereby enhancing the heat dissipation effect and efficiency of the electrical control box 200. The side wall of the electrical control box 200 is provided with a first through hole and a second through hole. The two ends of the refrigeration pipe 121 pass through the first through hole and the second through hole respectively, so as to connect with the first pipe body 122 and the second pipe body 123 located externally, realizing the circulation of the heat exchange medium and further improving the heat dissipation efficiency.

[0046] Optionally, the cooling pipe 121 is installed inside the wall of the electrical control box 200 to dissipate heat from the electrical components inside the electrical control box 200, while also enhancing the protection of the cooling pipe 121.

[0047] Optionally, combined Figure 1 As shown, the refrigeration pipe 121 is arranged in a serpentine pattern around the electrical control box 200 to increase the heat exchange area of ​​the refrigeration pipe 121, thereby improving the heat exchange effect on the electrical components.

[0048] Furthermore, the control circuit 112 is connected to the first throttling element 124, the second throttling element 125, the first shut-off valve 126, and the second shut-off valve 127. The control circuit 112 controls the operating state of the first throttling element 124, the second throttling element 125, the first shut-off valve 126, and the second shut-off valve 127 to control the operating state of the cooling flow path 120.

[0049] Optionally, combined Figure 1 As shown, the cooling flow path 120 also includes a three-position four-way valve 128. The three-position four-way valve 128 includes a first port, a second port, a third port, and a fourth port. The first port and the second port are respectively connected to the first pipe body 122 and the second pipe body 123. The third port and the fourth port are respectively connected to both ends of the refrigeration pipe 121.

[0050] The three-position four-way valve 128 includes a first position, a stationary position, and a second position. In the first position, the first and fourth interfaces are connected, and the second and third interfaces are connected. In the second position, the first and third interfaces are connected, and the second and fourth interfaces are connected. In the stationary position, the refrigeration pipe 121 and the first pipe body 122 and the second pipe body 123 are in an open-circuit state.

[0051] The control circuit 112 is connected to the three-position four-way valve 128, and the control circuit 112 is used to control the switching of the working position of the three-position four-way valve 128.

[0052] In this embodiment, a three-position four-way valve 128 is installed at both ends of the refrigeration pipe 121 between the first pipe body 122 and the second pipe body 123, thereby fixing the inlet and outlet of the heat exchange medium in the cooling flow path 120. Because the temperature of the heat exchange medium at the inlet of the cooling flow path 120 is lower than that at the outlet, the cooling effect at the inlet is better. The electrical components in the control box 200 are arranged according to their heat generation from highest to lowest along the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the cooling flow path 120. This improves the heat dissipation effect on the electrical components, thereby enhancing operational stability and reducing the risk of failure.

[0053] Optionally, the cooling device 100 further includes a flow regulating valve 130. The flow regulating valve 130 is disposed in the first pipe body 122 and / or the second pipe body 123. By setting the flow regulating valve 130, the flow rate of the heat exchange medium in the cooling flow path 120 is regulated. The opening degree of the flow regulating valve 130 is proportional to the temperature in the mounting cavity 202. The higher the temperature in the mounting cavity 202, the larger the opening degree of the flow regulating valve 130, so as to improve the heat dissipation efficiency of the electrical control box 200.

[0054] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 1 As shown, an electrical control box assembly is provided, including an electrical control box 200 and a cooling device 100 for the electrical control box according to any of the foregoing embodiments. A cooling flow path is provided in the electrical control box 200 for cooling the electrical control box 200. A control circuit 112 for controlling the cooling flow path 120 is provided inside the box body 110, which is independent of the electrical control box 200.

[0055] The electrical control box assembly provided in this disclosure separates the control circuit 112 for controlling the cooling flow path 120 from the electrical control box 200. The heat generated by the electrical components within the electrical control box 200 does not affect the control circuit 112, and a malfunction in the electrical control box 200 will not affect the operation of the control circuit 112. This improves the stability of the control circuit 112's control over the cooling flow path 120, thereby enabling continuous temperature regulation within the electrical control box 200, enhancing operational safety, and reducing the risk of electrical control box 200 failure.

[0056] In some embodiments, combined with Figures 2 to 7As shown, an air conditioner 1 is provided. The air conditioner 1 includes a refrigeration system 300, an electrical control box 200, and a cooling device 100 for the electrical control box according to any of the above embodiments. The refrigeration system 300 includes a compressor 302, a four-way reversing valve 304, an outdoor heat exchanger 306, a throttling device 308, and an indoor heat exchanger 310, which are connected in sequence to form a refrigerant flow path. The electrical control box 200 includes a mounting cavity 202 for housing electrical components. A cooling flow path 120 is connected in parallel with the throttling device 308, and both ends of the cooling flow path 120 are respectively connected to the refrigerant flow paths at both ends of the throttling device 308. The control circuit 112 is used to control the operating state of the cooling flow path 120 according to the temperature inside the mounting cavity 202.

[0057] This disclosure provides an air conditioner 1. The refrigeration system 300 includes a compressor 302, a four-way reversing valve 304, an outdoor heat exchanger 306, a throttling device 308, and an indoor heat exchanger 310, which are connected in sequence to form a refrigerant flow path. By controlling the conduction direction of the four-way reversing valve 304, the air conditioner 1 switches between cooling and heating modes. When cooling of the electrical control box 200 is required, the cooling flow path 120 is opened to divert refrigerant from the refrigerant flow path into the cooling flow path 120, thereby cooling the electrical control box 200. When cooling of the electrical control box 200 is not required, the cooling flow path 120 is closed. By connecting the cooling flow path 120 and the throttling device 308 in parallel, cooling of the electrical control box 200 and regulation of the indoor ambient temperature can be achieved simultaneously.

[0058] Furthermore, the cooling flow path 120 includes a refrigeration pipe 121, a first pipe body 122 and a second pipe body 123, a first throttling element 124 and a first shut-off valve 126 disposed on the first pipe body 122, and a second throttling element 125 and a second shut-off valve 127 disposed on the second pipe body 123. (Combined) Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the first pipe body 122 is connected to the refrigerant flow path between the outdoor heat exchanger 306 and the throttling device 308, and the second pipe body 123 is connected to the refrigerant flow path between the throttling device 308 and the indoor heat exchanger 310.

[0059] Combination Figure 3As shown (arrows in the diagram indicate refrigerant flow rate), when the air conditioner 1 is operating in cooling mode, the refrigerant flow direction in the cooling path 120 is from the first pipe 122, through the refrigerant pipe 121 to the second pipe 123. The steps to open the cooling path 120 include: controlling the first throttling device 124 and the second shut-off valve 127 to open, and the first shut-off valve 126 and the second throttling device 125 to close. Thus, in the air conditioner 1's cooling mode, the refrigerant, after passing through the outdoor heat exchanger 306, splits into two paths: one enters the cooling path 120 to cool the electrical control box 200, and the other enters the throttling device 308. The two paths merge and then pass through the indoor heat exchanger 310 to cool the indoor environment before returning to the compressor 302.

[0060] Combination Figure 4 As shown (arrows in the diagram indicate refrigerant flow rate), when the air conditioner 1 is in heating mode, the refrigerant flow direction in the cooling path 120 is from the second pipe 123, through the refrigerant pipe 121 to the first pipe 122. The steps to open the cooling path 120 include: controlling the first shut-off valve 126 and the second throttling device 125 to open, and the first throttling device 124 and the second shut-off valve 127 to close. Thus, in the air conditioner 1's heating mode, the refrigerant, after passing through the indoor heat exchanger 310, splits into two paths: one enters the cooling path 120 to cool the electrical control box 200, and the other enters the throttling device 308. The two paths merge, pass through the outdoor heat exchanger 306, and return to the compressor 302.

[0061] Combination Figure 1 , Figures 2 to 4 As shown, by setting parallel throttling devices and shut-off valves on the first pipe body 122 and the second pipe body 123 respectively, the open circuit of the cooling flow path 120 can be adjusted according to the operating mode of the air conditioner 1, so that the electrical control box 200 can be cooled in any operating mode of the air conditioner 1, thereby improving the stability of the operation of the electrical control box 200 and enhancing the safety of use.

[0062] Furthermore, when the temperature inside the mounting cavity 202 reaches the set ignition threshold, the opening of the first throttling element 124 or the second throttling element 125 is controlled to the maximum, and the compressor 302 is controlled to operate at the maximum operating frequency to achieve forced cooling inside the mounting cavity 202, causing a sudden drop in temperature. This is to suppress ignition through frost formation inside the mounting cavity 202, thereby reducing the risk of fire and improving safety in use.

[0063] Optionally, combined Figures 5 to 7As shown, the cooling flow path 120 also includes a three-position four-way valve 128. The three-position four-way valve 128 includes a first position, a stationary position, and a second position. The first position corresponds to the connection between the first and fourth interfaces, and the connection between the second and third interfaces. The second position corresponds to the connection between the first and third interfaces, and the connection between the second and fourth interfaces. The stationary position corresponds to an open circuit state.

[0064] Combination Figure 6 As shown (arrows in the diagram indicate refrigerant flow rate), when the air conditioner 1 is operating in cooling mode, the refrigerant flow direction in the cooling path 120 is from the first pipe 122, through the refrigerant pipe 121 to the second pipe 123. The steps to open the cooling path 120 include: controlling the three-position four-way valve 128 to switch to the second position, and controlling the first throttling device 124 and the second shut-off valve 127 to open, and the first shut-off valve 126 and the second throttling device 125 to close. Thus, in the air conditioner 1's cooling mode, the refrigerant, after passing through the outdoor heat exchanger 306, splits into two paths: one enters the cooling path 120 to cool the electrical control box 200, and the other enters the throttling device 308. The two paths merge and then pass through the indoor heat exchanger 310 to cool the indoor environment before returning to the compressor 302.

[0065] Combination Figure 7 As shown (arrows in the diagram indicate refrigerant flow rate), when the air conditioner 1 is in heating mode, the refrigerant flow direction in the cooling path 120 is from the second pipe 123, through the refrigerant pipe 121 to the first pipe 122. The steps to open the cooling path 120 include: controlling the three-position four-way valve 128 to switch to the first position, and controlling the first shut-off valve 126 and the second throttling device 125 to open, and the first throttling device 124 and the second shut-off valve 127 to close. Thus, in the air conditioner 1's heating mode, the refrigerant, after passing through the indoor heat exchanger 310, splits into two paths: one enters the cooling path 120 to cool the electrical control box 200, and the other enters the throttling device 308. The two paths merge, pass through the outdoor heat exchanger 306, and return to the compressor 302.

[0066] By installing three-position four-way valves 128 at both ends of the refrigeration pipe 121 and between the first pipe body 122 and the second pipe body 123, the inlet and outlet of the heat exchange medium in the cooling flow path 120 are fixed. This results in better cooling at the inlet because the temperature of the heat exchange medium at the inlet is lower than that at the outlet. The electrical components in the control box 200 are arranged according to their heat generation, from highest to lowest, along the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the cooling flow path 120. This improves the heat dissipation of the electrical components, thereby enhancing operational stability and reducing the risk of failure.

[0067] In some embodiments, a control device for a cooling apparatus is provided, including a processor and a memory storing program instructions, the processor being configured to execute a control method for a cooling apparatus as described in any of the above embodiments when executing the program instructions.

[0068] In some embodiments, combined with Figures 2 to 7 The air conditioner mentioned above, combined with Figure 8 As shown, a control method for a cooling device is provided, the control method including:

[0069] S802, the processor obtains the temperature inside the electrical control box.

[0070] The temperature inside the mounting cavity is detected by a temperature sensor installed inside the mounting cavity of the electrical control box.

[0071] S804: When the temperature is less than or equal to the first threshold, the processor controls the cooling flow path to be closed.

[0072] S806: When the temperature exceeds the first threshold, the processor controls the cooling flow path to be in a conducting state so that the cooling flow path is connected to the refrigeration system.

[0073] This disclosure provides a control method for a cooling device, comprising: acquiring the temperature inside the mounting cavity of an electrical control box; controlling the operating state of a cooling flow path based on the temperature inside the mounting cavity; determining a suitable ambient temperature for the operation of electrical components based on the type of electrical components inside the electrical control box; using the determined ambient temperature as a first threshold to compare the real-time detected temperature inside the mounting cavity with the first threshold; and adjusting the temperature inside the mounting cavity by controlling the operating state of the cooling flow path to meet the requirements for safe operation of electrical components, extend the service life of electrical components, and thereby improve the overall stability of the equipment operation.

[0074] Specifically, if the temperature inside the mounting cavity is less than or equal to the first threshold, it indicates that the current temperature inside the mounting cavity is not high and is suitable for the operation of the electrical components. Therefore, the cooling flow path is closed, and there is no need to cool the electrical control box.

[0075] If the temperature inside the mounting cavity exceeds the first threshold, it indicates that the current temperature inside the mounting cavity will affect the operation of the electrical components, and may even cause overheating and fire. In this case, the cooling flow path is opened and connected to the refrigerant flow path to cool the electrical control box through the refrigerant.

[0076] Optionally, the step of controlling the cooling flow path to be in a conductive state includes: acquiring the operating mode of the air conditioner; determining the medium flow direction of the cooling flow path based on the operating mode; and controlling the cooling flow path to be conductive according to the medium flow direction.

[0077] In this embodiment, considering that the air conditioner has both cooling and heating modes, and the refrigerant flow directions are opposite for these modes, the current operating mode of the air conditioner is obtained before controlling the cooling flow path to open. Based on the operating mode, the direction of medium flow in the cooling flow path is determined to achieve cooling of the electrical control box. Based on the determined medium flow direction, the cooling flow path is then controlled to open, ensuring that the refrigerant entering the cooling flow path is at a low temperature and low pressure, thereby improving the cooling effect on the electrical control box.

[0078] Optionally, combined Figures 2 to 4 The diagram shows a system schematic of an air conditioner. The refrigeration system includes a compressor, a four-way reversing valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, a throttling device, and an indoor heat exchanger, which are connected in sequence to form a refrigerant flow path. The cooling flow path includes a refrigerant pipe, a first pipe body, a second pipe body, a first throttling device and a first shut-off valve disposed on the first pipe body, and a second throttling device and a second shut-off valve disposed on the second pipe body. The first pipe body is connected to the refrigerant flow path located between the outdoor heat exchanger and the throttling device, and the second pipe body is connected to the refrigerant flow path located between the throttling device and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0079] The steps for determining the direction of medium flow in the cooling path based on the operating mode and controlling the cooling path to be open according to the direction of medium flow include:

[0080] When the operating mode is cooling mode, the direction of medium flow in the cooling flow path is determined to be from the first pipe body, through the cooling pipe to the second pipe body; the first throttling device and the second shut-off valve are controlled to open, and the first shut-off valve and the second throttling device are controlled to close.

[0081] When the operating mode is heating mode, the flow direction of the medium in the cooling flow path is determined to be from the second pipe body, through the refrigeration pipe to the first pipe body; the first shut-off valve and the second throttling device are controlled to open, and the first throttling device and the second shut-off valve are controlled to close.

[0082] In this embodiment, the open circuit of the cooling flow path is adjusted according to the operating mode of the air conditioner, so that the electrical control box can be cooled in any operating mode of the air conditioner, thereby improving the stability of the electrical control box operation and enhancing the safety of use.

[0083] Optionally, combined Figures 5 to 7 The system schematic diagram of the air conditioner shown includes a control method for the cooling device that further includes: in cooling mode, controlling the three-position four-way valve to switch to the second position; in heating mode, controlling the three-position four-way valve to switch to the first position. When the temperature is less than or equal to a first threshold, and the cooling flow path is controlled to be closed, the three-position four-way valve is controlled to switch to the stationary position.

[0084] In this embodiment, the working position of the three-position four-way valve is adjusted according to the air conditioner's operating mode. This allows the inlet and outlet of the heat exchange medium in the cooling flow path to be fixed. Considering that the temperature of the heat exchange medium at the inlet of the cooling flow path is lower than that at the outlet, the cooling effect at the inlet is better. By setting the three-position four-way valve, the electrical components in the control box are arranged according to their heat generation from high to low along the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the cooling flow path. By arranging the electrical components in the control box according to their heat generation, components prone to overheating and ignition can be placed in locations with lower refrigerant temperatures, further reducing the risk of overheating. This improves the heat dissipation effect on the electrical components, thereby enhancing operational stability and reducing the risk of failure.

[0085] In some embodiments, combined with Figures 2 to 7 The system diagram of the air conditioner shows that the cooling flow path includes a flow regulating valve, combined with... Figure 9 As shown, a control method for a cooling device is provided, the control method including:

[0086] S902, the processor obtains the temperature inside the electrical control box.

[0087] The temperature inside the mounting cavity is detected by a temperature sensor installed in the electrical control box.

[0088] S904: When the temperature is less than or equal to the first threshold, the processor controls the cooling flow path to be closed.

[0089] S906, when the temperature is greater than the first threshold and less than the second threshold, the processor controls the cooling flow path to be open and adjusts the opening of the flow regulating valve according to the temperature inside the mounting cavity.

[0090] S908, when the temperature is greater than or equal to the second threshold, the processor controls the cooling flow path to be open, adjusts the opening of the flow regulating valve to the maximum opening, and adjusts the operating frequency of the compressor to the maximum operating frequency.

[0091] In this embodiment, the operating state of the cooling flow path is controlled based on the temperature within the mounting cavity. A suitable ambient temperature for the operation of the electrical components is determined based on their type within the electrical control box. Furthermore, an ignition threshold is determined based on the type of electrical component. The determined ambient temperature is used as a first threshold. The ignition threshold is used as a second threshold, allowing for comparison between the real-time monitored temperature within the mounting cavity and the first and second thresholds. Based on the comparison results, the temperature within the mounting cavity is adjusted by controlling the operating state of the cooling flow path to meet the requirements for safe operation of the electrical components, extend their service life, and ultimately improve the overall stability of the equipment operation.

[0092] Specifically, if the temperature inside the mounting cavity is less than or equal to the first threshold, it indicates that the current temperature inside the mounting cavity is not high and is suitable for the operation of the electrical components. Therefore, the cooling flow path is closed, and there is no need to cool the electrical control box.

[0093] When the temperature inside the mounting cavity exceeds the first threshold but falls below the second threshold, it indicates that the current temperature within the cavity is affecting the operation of the electrical components. The cooling flow path is then activated, connecting with the refrigerant flow path. Simultaneously, the opening of the flow control valve is adjusted based on the temperature inside the mounting cavity to cool the electrical control box using the refrigerant. The opening of the flow control valve is directly proportional to the temperature inside the mounting cavity. Higher temperatures require a larger opening of the flow control valve to improve the heat dissipation efficiency of the electrical control box.

[0094] When the temperature inside the installation cavity is greater than or equal to the second threshold, it indicates that the temperature inside the installation cavity is too high and there is a risk of fire, or even that a fire has already started. In this case, control the cooling flow path to open, fully open the corresponding first or second throttling element, adjust the opening of the flow regulating valve to the maximum opening, and adjust the operating frequency of the compressor to the maximum operating frequency, so that the installation cavity can be quickly cooled, frosted, and the fire extinguished.

[0095] The control method for the cooling device provided in this disclosure utilizes the principle of temperature reduction to maintain the temperature inside the electrical control box below the ignition point of the electrical components, preventing fires caused by overheating of the components, thus achieving fire prevention and improving the operational stability of the components. Furthermore, by utilizing the principle of forced cooling to end fire suppression, in the event of a fire, the compressor operates at maximum power, and the instantaneous forced cooling causes a rapid drop in the ambient temperature inside the mounting cavity. Frosting inside the mounting cavity effectively suppresses fire, greatly enhancing the safety of the equipment.

[0096] Optionally, the first threshold value ranges from less than or equal to 26℃. Specific values ​​for the first threshold include, but are not limited to, 16℃, 18℃, 23℃, and 26℃.

[0097] The second threshold ranges from 85% to 92% of Tf, where Tf is the lowest ignition point among the electrical components in the electrical control box.

[0098] Optionally, the temperature inside the mounting cavity is acquired at a preset frequency. If no temperature is received from the mounting cavity within a preset time, a response signal is sent to the compressor. The compressor's operating status is acquired; if the compressor does not operate based on the response signal, and it is determined that the electrical control box has overheated or caught fire, the cooling flow path is activated, the flow control valve is adjusted to its maximum opening, and the compressor's operating frequency is adjusted to its maximum operating frequency. The sudden drop in temperature inside the electrical control box and the resulting frosting effectively suppress ignition, enhancing safety. If the compressor operates based on the response signal, a temperature sensor malfunction is detected, a fault alert is issued, and the temperature sensor is replaced promptly, improving safety monitoring.

[0099] Optionally, the preset frequency can be set according to the specific type of air conditioner. The preset duration can be set according to the specific usage conditions, and is not limited here, with the best goal being to achieve timely monitoring of temperature changes inside the electrical control box.

[0100] In some embodiments, combined with Figures 5 to 7 The system diagram of the air conditioner shown is combined with Figure 10 As shown, a control method for a cooling device is proposed, including:

[0101] S1002, the processor obtains the temperature inside the electrical control box.

[0102] The temperature inside the mounting cavity is detected by a temperature sensor installed in the electrical control box.

[0103] S1004, Does the processor receive the temperature inside the electrical control box within a preset time period? If it does, proceed to step S1006; if it does not, proceed to step S1024.

[0104] S1006, the processor determines whether the temperature is greater than the first threshold.

[0105] S1008, when the temperature is less than or equal to the first threshold, the processor controls the three-position four-way valve to be in the stationary position.

[0106] S1010, when the temperature is greater than the first threshold, the processor obtains the operating mode of the air conditioner;

[0107] S1012, in cooling mode, the processor controls the three-position four-way valve to switch to the second position. And S1014, the processor controls the first throttling element and the second shut-off valve to open, and the first shut-off valve and the second throttling element to close.

[0108] S1016, In heating mode, the processor controls the three-position four-way valve to switch to the first position. And S1018, the processor controls the first shut-off valve and the second throttling element to open, and the first throttling element and the second shut-off valve to close.

[0109] S1020, the processor determines whether the temperature is greater than or equal to the second threshold.

[0110] S1022, when the temperature is below the second threshold, the processor adjusts the opening of the flow regulating valve according to the temperature inside the mounting cavity.

[0111] S1024, when the temperature is greater than or equal to the second threshold, the processor adjusts the opening of the flow regulating valve to the maximum opening and adjusts the operating frequency of the compressor to the maximum operating frequency.

[0112] S1026, the processor determines whether the electrical control box has overheated and failed.

[0113] S1028, the processor determines that the electrical control box has overheated and failed, and obtains the operating mode of the air conditioner.

[0114] In cooling mode, the processor controls the three-position four-way valve (S1030) to switch to the second position. It also controls the opening of the first throttling element and the second shut-off valve, and the closing of the first shut-off valve and the second throttling element.

[0115] S1032, in heating mode, the processor controls the three-position four-way valve to switch to the first position. It also controls the first shut-off valve and the second throttling element to open, and the first throttling element and the second shut-off valve to close.

[0116] S1034, the processor adjusts the opening of the flow regulating valve to the maximum opening, and adjusts the operating frequency of the compressor to the maximum operating frequency.

[0117] This disclosure provides a control device 1100 for a cooling device, the structure of which is as follows: Figure 11 As shown, it includes:

[0118] The processor 1102 and memory 1104 may further include a communication interface 1106 and a bus 1108. The processor 1102, communication interface 1106, and memory 1104 can communicate with each other via the bus 1108. The communication interface 1106 can be used for information transmission. The processor 1102 can call logical instructions in the memory 1104 to execute the control method for the cooling device described in the above embodiment.

[0119] The memory 1104, as a computer-readable storage medium, can be used to store software programs and computer-executable programs, such as program instructions / modules corresponding to the methods in the embodiments of this disclosure. The processor 1102 executes functional applications and data processing by running the program instructions / modules stored in the memory 1104, thereby implementing the control method for the cooling device in the above method embodiments. Therefore, it possesses all the beneficial effects of the above embodiments, which will not be elaborated further here.

[0120] The memory 1104 may include a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area may store the operating system and applications required for at least one function; the data storage area may store data created based on the use of the terminal device. Furthermore, the memory 1104 may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-volatile memory.

[0121] This disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions configured to execute the control method for the cooling device described above.

[0122] The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium may be a transient computer-readable storage medium or a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

[0123] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings fully illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure to enable those skilled in the art to practice them. Other embodiments may include structural, logical, electrical, procedural, and other changes. The embodiments represent only possible variations. Individual components and functions are optional unless explicitly required, and the order of operation may vary. Parts and features of some embodiments may be included in or replace parts and features of other embodiments. The scope of the embodiments of this disclosure includes the entire scope of the claims and all available equivalents of the claims. When used in this application, although the terms “first,” “second,” etc., may be used in this application to describe elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element may be called a second element without changing the meaning of the description, and likewise, a second element may be called a first element, provided that all occurrences of “first element” are consistently renamed and all occurrences of “second element” are consistently renamed. First and second elements are both elements, but may not be the same element. Moreover, the terminology used in this application is only for describing embodiments and is not intended 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 equally include the plural forms. Similarly, the term “and / or” as used herein means including one or more of the associated listed any and all possible combinations. Additionally, when used in this application, the terms “comprise” and its variations “comprises” and / or “comprising” refer to the presence of stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase “comprising an…” does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, or apparatus that includes said element. In this document, each embodiment may focus on the differences from other embodiments, and similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to mutually. For methods, products, etc., disclosed in the embodiments, if they correspond to the method section disclosed in the embodiments, the relevant parts can be referred to the description of the method section.

[0124] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples 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 implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of the embodiments of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0125] The methods and products (including but not limited to devices and equipment) disclosed in the embodiments herein can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of units may be merely a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. In addition, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units, that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to implement this embodiment according to actual needs. In addition, the functional units in the embodiments of this disclosure may be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit may exist physically separately, or two or more units may be integrated into one unit.

[0126] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to embodiments of this disclosure. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code containing one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. In some alternative implementations, the functions marked in the blocks may occur in a different order than that shown in the drawings. For example, two consecutive blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, or they may be executed in reverse order, depending 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 blocks may also occur in a different order than disclosed in the description; in some cases, there is no specific order between different operations or steps. For example, two consecutive operations or steps may actually be executed substantially in parallel, or they may be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. Each block in a block diagram and / or flowchart, and combinations of blocks in a block diagram and / or flowchart, can be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or action, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

Claims

1. A cooling device for an electric control box, characterized by, The electric control box comprises a mounting cavity for placing electrical devices, and the cooling device comprises: a box body located outside the mounting cavity and independently arranged from the electric control box; a cooling flow path arranged in the electric control box and used for cooling the mounting cavity, and the electrical devices in the electric control box are arranged along the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the cooling flow path from high to low according to the heat generation; the cooling flow path comprises: a refrigeration pipe arranged in the electric control box and used for containing the heat exchange medium; a first pipe body in communication with one end of the refrigeration pipe and located outside the electric control box; a second pipe body in communication with the other end of the refrigeration pipe and located outside the electric control box; a first throttling element and a second throttling element arranged in the first pipe body and the second pipe body respectively; a first stop valve and a second stop valve arranged in parallel with the first throttling element and the second throttling element respectively; a three-position four-way valve comprising a first interface, a second interface, a third interface and a fourth interface, the first interface and the second interface being in communication with the first pipe body and the second pipe body respectively, and the third interface and the fourth interface being in communication with the two ends of the refrigeration pipe respectively, so that the inlet and outlet of the heat exchange medium in the cooling flow path are fixedly arranged; a control circuit arranged in the box body and connected with the cooling flow path and used for controlling the operating state of the cooling flow path; wherein the control circuit is connected with the first throttling element, the second throttling element, the first stop valve and the second stop valve, and used for controlling the working state of the first throttling element, the second throttling element, the first stop valve and the second stop valve; the three-position four-way valve comprises a first working position, a static working position and a second working position, the control circuit is connected with the three-position four-way valve and used for controlling the working position of the three-position four-way valve, comprising: in the case that the operating mode of the air conditioner is a cooling mode, the three-position four-way valve is controlled to switch to the second working position; in the case that the operating mode of the air conditioner is a heating mode, the three-position four-way valve is controlled to switch to the first working position.

2. An air conditioner characterized by comprising: comprise: a refrigeration system comprising a compressor, a four-way reversing valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, a throttling device and an indoor heat exchanger connected in sequence to form a refrigerant flow path; an electric control box comprising a mounting cavity for placing electrical devices; and the cooling device for the electric control box as claimed in claim 1, the cooling flow path is arranged in parallel with the throttling device, and the two ends of the cooling flow path are in communication with the refrigerant flow paths at the two ends of the throttling device respectively; wherein the control circuit is used for controlling the operating state of the cooling flow path according to the temperature in the mounting cavity.

3. A control method for a hypothermia device, characterized by, The cooling device for the electric control box as claimed in claim 1, the cooling flow path of the cooling device is in communication with the refrigeration system of the air conditioner; the refrigeration system comprises a compressor, a four-way reversing valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, a throttling device and an indoor heat exchanger connected in sequence to form a refrigerant flow path; the three-position four-way valve comprises a first working position, a static working position and a second working position, the first working position corresponds to the communication between the first interface and the fourth interface, and the second interface and the third interface are in communication; the second working position corresponds to the communication between the first interface and the third interface, and the second interface and the fourth interface are in communication; the control method comprises: obtaining the temperature in the electric control box; in the case that the temperature is less than or equal to a first threshold value, controlling the cooling flow path to be in a closed state; In a case where the temperature is greater than the first threshold value, the cooling flow path is controlled to be in a conducting state so as to be communicated with the refrigeration system; The step of controlling the cooling flow path to be in the conducting state comprises: Obtaining an operation mode of the air conditioner; In a case where the operation mode is the refrigeration mode, determining that a medium flow direction of the cooling flow path is from the first pipe body to the second pipe body through the refrigeration pipeline; Controlling the first throttling member and the second stop valve to be opened, the first stop valve and the second throttling member to be closed, and the three-position four-way valve to be switched to the second working position; In a case where the operation mode is the heating mode, determining that the medium flow direction of the cooling flow path is from the second pipe body to the first pipe body through the refrigeration pipeline; Controlling the first stop valve and the second throttling member to be opened, the first throttling member and the second stop valve to be closed, and the three-position four-way valve to be switched to the first working position.

4. The control method according to claim 3, characterized by, The cooling flow path comprises a flow regulating valve, and in a case where the temperature is greater than the first threshold value, the step of controlling the cooling flow path to be in the conducting state comprises: In a case where the temperature is greater than the first threshold value and less than a second threshold value, according to the temperature in the installation cavity, the cooling flow path is controlled to be conducted, and the opening degree of the flow regulating valve is adjusted; In a case where the temperature is greater than or equal to the second threshold value, the cooling flow path is controlled to be conducted, the opening degree of the flow regulating valve is adjusted to a maximum opening degree, and the operation frequency of the compressor is adjusted to a maximum operation frequency.

5. A control device for a hypothermia device, comprising a processor and a memory having stored program instructions, characterized in that, The processor is configured to execute the control method for the cooling device when executing the program instructions.

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