Control method and control device, air conditioner and outdoor unit, storage medium

Abstract

This invention discloses a control method and control device, an air conditioner and an outdoor unit, and a storage medium. The temperature detection device on the outdoor heat exchanger of the air conditioner includes a first temperature sensor located at the bottom and a second temperature sensor located above the first temperature sensor. Multiple parallel branch flow paths of the outdoor heat exchanger include a first branch flow path located at the bottom and a second branch flow path located above the first branch flow path. The control method includes: when the air conditioner is in de-icing mode, acquiring the detected temperature by the temperature detection device; when the detected temperature by the temperature detection device meets a first preset condition, controlling at least a portion of the second branch flow path to reduce the flow rate from the first preset condition to a second preset condition, until the second preset condition is met. In de-icing mode, by controlling the flow rate of the second branch flow path to decrease, more refrigerant flows through the first branch flow path at the bottom, thereby de-icing the frost accumulated at the bottom of the outdoor unit and preventing frost buildup.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to, but is not limited to, the field of air conditioner technology, and particularly to, but is not limited to, an air conditioner control method, an air conditioner control device, an air conditioner outdoor unit, an air conditioner, and a storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] Applying a superhydrophobic coating to the heat exchanger of the outdoor unit of an air conditioner, such as coating the surface of the heat exchanger fins with a water droplet contact angle >150° and a roll-off angle <10°, creates a lotus leaf effect on the fin surface, which helps to suppress condensation and thus inhibits ice and frost formation on the fin surface. Therefore, it can effectively extend the time for the outdoor heat exchanger to frost under low-temperature heating conditions, shorten the defrosting time, and improve the heating efficiency of the air conditioning system and the thermal comfort experience of users.

[0003] Although superhydrophobic coating outdoor heat exchangers have significant advantages in extending the frosting cycle, shortening defrosting time, and improving user thermal comfort during heating operations, the following shortcomings have been found in actual use of air conditioner outdoor units with superhydrophobic coatings:

[0004] During defrosting in heating mode, frost on outdoor heat exchangers with ordinary hydrophilic coatings melts into water and is washed away by gravity. Frost on superhydrophobic coated outdoor heat exchangers, however, detaches in chunks, reducing defrosting time. But incompletely melted frost accumulates on the outdoor unit chassis. With repeated defrosting cycles, this buildup thickens and worsens the frost-suppressing performance of the superhydrophobic coating, leading to decreased heating efficiency. It may even interfere with the outdoor fan impeller, causing it to become stuck and resulting in motor malfunction. If the accumulated frost on the outdoor unit chassis is not removed promptly, it can cause the impeller to collide with the frost, damaging the blades and affecting the safe operation of the air conditioning system. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The main objective of this invention is to provide a control method for an air conditioner, which solves the problems of frost accumulation on the chassis of the outdoor unit due to the shedding of large pieces of frost from the superhydrophobic outdoor heat exchanger, affecting the heating effect and interfering with the fan.

[0006] The technical solution of the present invention is as follows:

[0007] A control method for an air conditioner, wherein the outdoor heat exchanger of the air conditioner is provided with a temperature detection device, the temperature detection device includes a first temperature sensor located at the bottom and at least one second temperature sensor located above the first temperature sensor, the outdoor heat exchanger has a plurality of parallel branch flow paths, the plurality of branch flow paths including a first branch flow path located at the bottom and at least one second branch flow path located above the first branch flow path;

[0008] The control method includes:

[0009] When the air conditioner is in de-icing mode, the temperature detected by the temperature detection device is obtained;

[0010] When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the first preset condition, at least a portion of the second branch flow route is controlled to reduce the first preset flow rate to the second preset flow rate until the second preset condition is met.

[0011] A control device for an air conditioner includes a processor, a memory, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the computer program, when executed by the processor, implements the steps of the control method described above.

[0012] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner includes the aforementioned control device, outdoor heat exchanger, temperature detection device, and at least one flow controller.

[0013] The outdoor heat exchanger includes multiple parallel branch flow paths, and the multiple branch flow paths include a first branch flow path located at the bottom and at least one second branch flow path located above the first branch flow path;

[0014] At least one of the flow controllers is disposed on at least one of the second branch flow paths;

[0015] The temperature detection device is installed on the outdoor heat exchanger and includes a first temperature sensor located at the bottom and at least one second temperature sensor located above the first temperature sensor.

[0016] The control device is configured to control the operation of at least one of the flow controllers based on the detection results of the temperature detection device.

[0017] An air conditioner, comprising the outdoor unit of the air conditioner described above.

[0018] A non-transient computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program executable on a processor, wherein the computer program, when executed by the processor, implements the steps of the control method described above.

[0019] In this embodiment of the invention, when the air conditioner is in de-icing mode, the temperature detected by the temperature detection device on the outdoor heat exchanger is obtained. The temperature detected by the temperature detection device is related to the frosting condition of the outdoor heat exchanger and the icing condition of the outdoor unit chassis. If the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the first preset condition, the flow rate of at least part of the second branch flow path is reduced, thereby increasing the flow rate of the first branch flow path at the bottom. This allows more refrigerant to flow through the first branch flow path at the bottom, so as to melt the frost accumulated at the bottom of the outdoor unit and avoid frost accumulation on the chassis of the outdoor unit, which would affect the heating effect and cause interference with the fan.

[0020] Other features and advantages of this application will be set forth in the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of an air conditioner control method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2 A flowchart of a control method for an air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a control method for an air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 5 This is a partial structural diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] The attached diagram lists the components represented by each number as follows:

[0029] 1-Compressor, 2-Reversing valve, 3-Outdoor heat exchanger, 31-Windward side, 32-Leisure side, 33-Coil, 34-First branch flow path, 35-Second branch flow path, 36-Combination pipe, 4-Fan, 5-Throttling device, 61-First temperature sensor, 62-Second temperature sensor, 7-Flow controller, 8-Defrosting device, 81-Defrosting plate, 811-Guide surface, 82-Snap-fit ​​part, 9-Frost collection device, 91-Frost collection trough, 92-Frost collection plate, 93-Ventilation hole, 10-Chassis, 11-Indoor heat exchanger. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The principles and features of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The examples given are only for explaining the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0031] This invention provides a method for controlling an air conditioner.

[0032] like Figure 4 As shown, the air conditioner includes an outdoor unit, which includes an outdoor heat exchanger 3 and a temperature detection device.

[0033] A temperature detection device is installed on the outdoor heat exchanger 3 and can be used to detect the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, that is, to detect the coil temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, and thus to know the temperature of the refrigerant inside the outdoor heat exchanger 3. The temperature detection device may include a first temperature sensor 61 and at least one second temperature sensor 62. The first temperature sensor 61 is located at the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 and can detect the temperature at the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger 3. The at least one second temperature sensor 62 is located above the first temperature sensor 61 and can detect the temperature of the upper middle part of the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0034] The outdoor heat exchanger 3 includes multiple parallel branch flow paths, which can be arranged sequentially from top to bottom. The multiple branch flow paths include a first branch flow path 34 located at the bottom and at least one second branch flow path 35 located above the first branch flow path 34, such that the first branch flow path 34 is closer to the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 than the second branch flow path 35.

[0035] The outdoor unit may also include at least one flow controller 7, which is disposed on at least one second branch flow path 35 to control the refrigerant flow in the second branch flow path 35.

[0036] like Figure 1 As shown, the control method includes:

[0037] Step S102: When the air conditioner is in de-icing mode, obtain the temperature detected by the temperature detection device;

[0038] Step S104: When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the first preset condition, control at least a portion of the second branch flow route to reduce the first preset flow rate to the second preset flow rate until the second preset condition is met. Wherein, the second preset flow rate is less than the first preset flow rate.

[0039] When the air conditioner is in de-icing mode, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from compressor 1 flows into outdoor heat exchanger 3 (the refrigerant flow direction is as follows). Figure 4 and Figure 6 (As shown by the middle arrow), the refrigerant can be used to heat the frost accumulated on the chassis 10 of the outdoor unit, melting the frost into water which is then discharged. When the air conditioner is in de-icing mode, the temperature detected by the temperature detection device on the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is obtained. The temperature detected by the temperature detection device is related to the frosting condition of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 and the icing condition of the outdoor unit chassis. If the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the first preset condition, the flow rate of at least part of the second branch flow path 35 is reduced, thereby increasing the flow rate of the first branch flow path 34 at the bottom. This allows more high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant to flow through the first branch flow path 34 at the bottom, so as to quickly melt the frost accumulated at the bottom of the outdoor unit. This avoids the problem of frost accumulating on the chassis 10 of the outdoor unit, causing deterioration of heating performance, or even interference with the impeller of the fan 4 in the outdoor unit, leading to fan 4 failure or damage.

[0040] In some exemplary embodiments, the step of controlling at least a portion of the second branch flow route to reduce the first preset flow rate to a second preset flow rate until the second preset condition is met when the detected temperature of the temperature detection device meets a first preset condition includes:

[0041] When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the first preset condition, the second branch flow path, which is furthest from the first branch flow path, is controlled to reduce the first preset flow rate to the second preset flow rate.

[0042] When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the third preset condition, the second branch flow path that is furthest from the first branch flow path in the remaining second branch flow path at the first preset flow rate is controlled to decrease to the second preset flow rate until the second preset condition is met.

[0043] In the de-icing mode, the temperature detection device monitors the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 at a certain frequency. When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device for the first time meets the first preset condition, it indicates that there is frost accumulation on the outdoor unit chassis. At this time, the flow rate of the second branch flow path 35 furthest from the first branch flow path 34 can be reduced, i.e., the flow rate of the uppermost second branch flow path 35 can be reduced, increasing the flow rate of refrigerant flowing through the first branch flow path 34 at the bottom. This provides more heat to the accumulated frost at the bottom, accelerating its melting into water and subsequent discharge. When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device subsequently meets the third preset condition, it indicates that the frost on the outdoor unit chassis has not completely melted and there is residue. At this time, the flow rate of the remaining second branch flow path 35, still at the first preset flow rate, can be further reduced, i.e., the flow rate of the second branch flow path 35 furthest from the first branch flow path 34 can be reduced, further increasing the flow rate of refrigerant flowing through the first branch flow path 34 at the bottom. This further increases the heat provided to the accumulated frost at the bottom, further melting the ice.

[0044] Whenever the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the third preset condition, the flow rate of more second branch flow paths 35 is reduced until the temperature detected by the temperature detection device no longer meets the third preset condition, or until the flow rate of all second branch flow paths 35 is reduced to the second preset flow rate. If the temperature detected by the temperature detection device still meets the third preset condition after the flow rate of all second branch flow paths 35 has been reduced to the second preset flow rate, the state of reducing the flow rate of all second branch flow paths 35 to the second preset flow rate remains unchanged until the temperature detected by the temperature detection device no longer meets the third preset condition.

[0045] In this ice-melting mode, when the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the first preset condition or the third preset condition, the flow rate of the second branch flow path 35 from top to bottom is controlled to decrease sequentially until the temperature detected by the temperature detection device does not meet the third preset condition, or until the flow rate of all second branch flow paths 35 is reduced to the second preset flow rate.

[0046] In some exemplary embodiments, the first preset condition includes: the temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature, and the average temperature of all the second temperature sensors is greater than the second preset temperature, wherein the second preset temperature may not be less than the first preset temperature.

[0047] The temperature detected by the first temperature sensor 61 is lower than the first preset temperature, indicating that the bottom temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is low, suggesting that there may be frost buildup on the chassis 10 of the outdoor unit. The average temperature of all the second temperature sensors 62 is higher than the second preset temperature, indicating that the temperature in the upper middle part of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is high, and there is no frost buildup in the upper middle part of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, so there is no need to defrost the outdoor heat exchanger 3. Therefore, after the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the first preset condition for the first time, the refrigerant flow rate in the second branch flow path 35 in the upper middle part of the outdoor heat exchanger can be reduced, while the refrigerant flow rate in the first branch flow path 34 at the bottom can be increased, so as to provide more heat to the frost accumulated at the bottom and accelerate the melting of the frost at the bottom.

[0048] In some exemplary embodiments, the third preset condition includes: the temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor is less than the third preset temperature.

[0049] If the temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor 61 is lower than the third preset temperature, it indicates that the bottom temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is still low, and there may be frost buildup on the chassis 10 of the outdoor unit. In the de-icing mode, after the temperature detection device detects a temperature that meets the third preset condition for the first time, it can reduce the refrigerant flow rate in the first branch of the outdoor heat exchanger, thereby further increasing the refrigerant flow rate through the first branch flow path 34 at the bottom, and further accelerating the melting of the frost at the bottom.

[0050] In some exemplary embodiments, the third preset temperature may be equal to the first preset temperature. Of course, the two may also be set to be unequal.

[0051] In some exemplary embodiments, the second preset condition includes: the temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor is between a third preset temperature and a fourth preset temperature, wherein the fourth preset temperature may be greater than the third preset temperature.

[0052] When the temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor 61 is between the third preset temperature and the fourth preset temperature (including the third preset temperature and the fourth temperature), it indicates that the bottom temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 has risen to a certain extent, and the frost accumulated on the chassis 10 of the outdoor unit has begun to melt. At this time, the flow rate of the second branch flow path 35 can be stopped, and there is no need to further increase the flow rate in the first branch flow path 34.

[0053] In some exemplary embodiments, the fourth preset temperature may be equal to the second preset temperature. Of course, they may also be set to be unequal.

[0054] In some exemplary embodiments, the second preset temperature = the fourth preset temperature > the first preset temperature = the third preset temperature.

[0055] In some exemplary embodiments, the values ​​of the first preset temperature, the second preset temperature, the third preset temperature, and the fourth preset temperature can range from -8℃ to 20℃. For example, the second preset temperature = the fourth preset temperature = 8℃, and the first preset temperature = the third preset temperature = 0℃.

[0056] It should be noted that the first, second, third, and fourth preset temperatures are not limited to the above ranges and can be set according to actual needs.

[0057] In some exemplary embodiments, the flow controller 7 that controls the refrigerant flow in the branch flow path is an on / off shut-off valve, such as an electrically controlled shut-off valve.

[0058] Based on this, when the second branch flow path 35 is at the first preset flow rate, the flow controller on the second branch flow path 35 is at the maximum opening, that is, the electrically controlled shut-off valve is in the conducting state; when the second branch flow path 35 is at the second preset flow rate, the flow controller on the second branch flow path 35 is disconnected, at this time the electrically controlled shut-off valve is in the disconnected state, and no refrigerant flows through the second branch flow path 35.

[0059] Of course, the opening degree of the flow controller 7, which controls the refrigerant flow in the branch flow path, is adjustable. For example, the flow controller 7 can be an electronic expansion valve. By controlling the flow controller 7 to different opening degrees, the second branch flow path 35 can be at a first preset flow rate or a second preset flow rate.

[0060] In some exemplary embodiments, the control method further includes:

[0061] When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the second preset condition, the flow rate of a portion of the second branch flow path, which is controlled to be at the second preset flow rate, is increased to the first preset flow rate.

[0062] When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the second preset condition, that is, when the temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor 61 is between the third and fourth preset temperatures, it indicates that the bottom temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 has risen to a certain extent, and the frost accumulated on the chassis 10 of the outdoor unit has begun to melt. At this time, the first branch flow path 34 does not need an excessively large refrigerant flow rate to meet the ice melting needs, so the refrigerant flow rate flowing through the bottom of the heat exchanger can be appropriately reduced. This can be achieved by reducing the refrigerant flow rate of the first branch flow path 34 and increasing the flow rate of the second branch flow path 35, thereby reducing the flow rate of the first branch flow path 34 and increasing the flow rate of the second branch flow path 35 from the reduced second preset flow rate back to the initial first preset flow rate.

[0063] In some exemplary embodiments, the step of controlling the flow rate of a portion of the second branch flow path, which is at a second preset flow rate, to increase to a first preset flow rate includes:

[0064] Except for the third preset number (such as one or more) of second branch flows that are furthest from the first branch flow, the fourth preset number (such as one or more) of second branch flows that are closest to the first branch flow are increased to the first preset flow rate among the remaining second branch flows that are at the second preset flow rate.

[0065] In the de-icing mode, the temperature detection device detects the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 at a certain frequency. When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the second preset condition, the flow rate of the second branch flow path 35 closest to the first branch flow path 34 is first increased, that is, the flow rate of the lowest part of the second branch flow path 35 among all the second branch flow paths 35 at the second preset flow rate is increased; then the flow rate of the remaining second branch flow paths 35 at the second preset flow rate is sequentially increased, until the temperature detected by the temperature detection device no longer meets the second preset condition, or until the flow rate of all the second branch flow paths 35 except the highest part of the second branch flow path 35 at the second preset flow rate has increased to the first preset flow rate (that is, when the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the second preset condition, not all the flow rates of the second branch flow paths 35 have increased to the first preset flow rate, and the highest part of the second branch flow path 35 is still at the second preset flow rate).

[0066] In this de-icing mode, when the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the second preset condition, the flow rate of the second branch flow path 35 from bottom to top is increased sequentially until the temperature detected by the temperature detection device no longer meets the second preset condition, or until the flow rate of all second branch flow paths 35 except the uppermost part of the second branch flow path 35 is increased to the first preset flow rate. Although the increase in the flow rate of the second branch flow path 35 will cause the flow rate of the first branch flow path 34 to decrease, the flow rate of the second branch flow path 35 increases sequentially from bottom to top. Therefore, although the flow rate of the first branch flow path 34 decreases, the flow rate of the lower second branch flow path 35 increases. Thus, a large amount of refrigerant can still pass through the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, which can meet the de-icing needs of the frost accumulated at the bottom.

[0067] In some exemplary embodiments, the first preset quantity, the second preset quantity, the third preset quantity, and the fourth preset quantity may all be equal. Of course, they may also be set to be unequal; or, the first preset quantity and the second preset quantity may be equal, but not equal to the third preset quantity and the fourth preset quantity; or, the first preset quantity, the second preset quantity, and the fourth preset quantity may be equal, but not equal to the third preset quantity.

[0068] In some exemplary embodiments, when the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the fourth preset condition, all second branch flow paths are controlled to increase to the first preset flow rate, and the ice melting mode is exited.

[0069] When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the fourth preset condition, it means that the frost accumulated on the chassis 10 of the outdoor unit has basically melted completely. At this time, there is no need to increase the flow rate at the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger 3. Therefore, the flow rate of all second branch flow paths 35 can be increased, and the air conditioner exits the ice-melting mode.

[0070] In some exemplary embodiments, the fourth preset condition includes: the temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor is greater than the fourth preset temperature.

[0071] When the temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor 61 is greater than the fourth preset temperature, it means that the frost accumulated on the chassis 10 of the outdoor unit has basically melted completely. At this time, the flow rate of all second branch flow paths 35 can be increased to make the air conditioner exit the ice-melting mode.

[0072] In some exemplary embodiments, the control method further includes:

[0073] Determine whether the air conditioner meets the preset de-icing conditions;

[0074] When the air conditioner meets the de-icing conditions, control the air conditioner to enter the de-icing mode.

[0075] During air conditioner operation, the system acquires its operating status and determines whether it meets the defrosting conditions. If the conditions are met, it indicates potential frost buildup at the outdoor unit's chassis 10. In this case, the air conditioner enters defrosting mode to melt the frost at the chassis 10, allowing it to dissipate as water. In defrosting mode, the refrigerant flow rate in multiple branch paths of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 can be adjusted to accelerate the melting of frost on the outdoor unit's chassis 10, preventing frost buildup from affecting heating performance, interfering with the fan 4, or consequently impacting the normal and safe operation of the outdoor unit.

[0076] In some exemplary embodiments, the ice-melting conditions include:

[0077] The temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is lower than the fifth preset temperature, and the temperature detected by all the second temperature sensors is not lower than the sixth preset temperature, which is not lower than the fifth preset temperature. Specifically, the sixth preset temperature is not lower than 0℃, and the fifth preset temperature is not higher than 0℃.

[0078] If the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor 61 is less than 0°C, it indicates that the temperature at the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is low, and there may be frost accumulation on the chassis 10 of the outdoor unit. If the temperature detected by all the second temperature sensors 62 is not less than 0°C, it indicates that the temperature in the upper middle part of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is high, and there is basically no frost condensation in the upper middle part of the outdoor heat exchanger 3. At this time, the air conditioner can be controlled to enter the de-icing mode to reduce the amount of refrigerant flowing through the upper middle part of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 and increase the amount of refrigerant flowing through the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, thereby melting the frost accumulated on the chassis 10 of the outdoor unit.

[0079] In some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the control method also includes:

[0080] Step S204: When the air conditioner is in heating mode, determine whether the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting conditions;

[0081] Step S206: When the air conditioner meets the defrosting conditions, control the air conditioner to enter the defrosting mode;

[0082] Step S208: When the air conditioner has been in defrosting mode for a first preset time, determine whether the air conditioner meets the preset ice-melting conditions.

[0083] Step S210: When the air conditioner meets the ice-melting conditions, control the air conditioner to enter the ice-melting mode.

[0084] During the air conditioner's heating operation, the operating status of the air conditioner is monitored. First, it is determined whether the air conditioner meets the defrosting conditions. If the air conditioner meets the defrosting conditions, it indicates that there may be frost on the outdoor heat exchanger 3. At this time, the air conditioner is controlled to enter defrosting mode to defrost the entire outdoor heat exchanger 3. After the air conditioner has been in defrosting mode for a period of time, it is determined whether the air conditioner meets the ice-melting conditions. If the ice-melting conditions are met, the air conditioner is controlled to enter ice-melting mode, concentrating the refrigerant to the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 to melt the frost accumulated on the chassis 10 of the outdoor unit.

[0085] By melting the frost condensed on the outdoor heat exchanger 3 in the defrosting mode and the ice-melting mode, the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is defrosted comprehensively and quickly. It can also melt the detached frost and drain the melted water to prevent the frost from affecting the operation of the air conditioner.

[0086] It should be noted that the range of the first preset duration is not limited here and can be set according to actual needs. For example, the first preset duration can be set to between tens of seconds and several minutes, such as 10s-30s.

[0087] In some exemplary embodiments, when the air conditioner is in defrost mode, all second branch flow paths are at a first preset flow rate.

[0088] When the air conditioner is in defrost mode, the second branch flow path 35 operates at a relatively high flow rate, allowing the refrigerant to defrost the upper and middle parts of the outdoor heat exchanger 3. After the defrost mode ends and the de-icing mode begins, the frost accumulated at the bottom of the outdoor unit is melted. The combination of defrost and de-icing modes effectively melts and removes the frost condensed on the outdoor heat exchanger 3, and melts the frost accumulated at the bottom of the outdoor unit into water for drainage, preventing frost from affecting the air conditioner's operation.

[0089] In some exemplary embodiments, the control method further includes:

[0090] When the air conditioner exits the defrosting mode, determine whether the air conditioner meets the preset conditions for exiting defrosting.

[0091] When the conditions for the air conditioner to exit defrost are met, the air conditioner exits defrost mode and resumes heating operation mode.

[0092] When the air conditioner does not meet the conditions for exiting defrost, control the air conditioner to enter defrost mode.

[0093] During air conditioner operation, after the air conditioner has been in defrosting mode for a period of time, it is determined whether the air conditioner meets the defrosting conditions. If the defrosting conditions are met, the air conditioner enters defrosting mode. After the defrosting mode ends, it is determined whether the air conditioner meets the conditions for exiting defrosting. If the conditions for exiting defrosting are met, the air conditioner exits defrosting mode and resumes heating mode. If the conditions for exiting defrosting are not met, the air conditioner enters defrosting mode again to defrost.

[0094] In some exemplary embodiments, defrosting conditions include:

[0095] The average temperature detected by all the second temperature sensors is less than the seventh preset temperature, or the average temperature detected by the first temperature sensor and all the second temperature sensors is less than the seventh preset temperature.

[0096] If the average temperature detected by all the second temperature sensors 62 is low, or if the average temperature detected by the first temperature sensor 61 and all the second temperature sensors 62 is low, it indicates that the frost may be thick on the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, and the defrosting mode can be entered at this time.

[0097] It should be noted that the range of the seventh preset temperature is not limited here and can be set according to actual needs. For example, the seventh preset temperature can be set to less than 0℃.

[0098] In some exemplary embodiments, the defrosting exit conditions include:

[0099] The detected temperatures of the first temperature sensor and all the second temperature sensors are all greater than the eighth preset temperature, and the average value of the detected temperatures of the first temperature sensor and all the second temperature sensors is greater than the ninth preset temperature. The ninth preset temperature is greater than the eighth preset temperature.

[0100] The detected temperatures of the first temperature sensor 61 and each of the second temperature sensors 62 are all relatively high, and the average value of the detected temperatures of the first temperature sensor 61 and all the second temperature sensors 62 is also relatively high. This indicates that there may be no frost accumulation on the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger 3. At this time, the defrosting mode can be exited and normal heating operation can be resumed.

[0101] It should be noted that the value range of the eighth and ninth preset temperatures is not limited here, and can be set according to actual needs. For example, the eighth preset temperature can be set to no less than 0℃, and the ninth preset temperature can be set to greater than 0℃, such as 18℃.

[0102] In some exemplary embodiments, the ninth preset temperature may be greater than the fourth preset temperature.

[0103] In some exemplary embodiments, the control method further includes:

[0104] When the air conditioner has been in defrosting mode for a first preset time, determine whether the air conditioner meets the preset conditions for exiting defrosting.

[0105] When the air conditioner meets the conditions for exiting defrosting mode, control the air conditioner to exit defrosting mode and resume heating operation mode;

[0106] When the air conditioner does not meet the conditions for exiting defrosting and melting ice, control the air conditioner to remain in defrosting mode.

[0107] After the air conditioner has been in defrosting mode for a period of time, the temperature detection device determines whether the air conditioner meets the conditions for exiting defrosting or defrosting. If the air conditioner meets the conditions for exiting defrosting, it exits defrosting mode and resumes heating mode. If the air conditioner meets the conditions for defrosting, it enters defrosting mode. If the air conditioner does not meet either the conditions for exiting defrosting or defrosting, it remains in defrosting mode.

[0108] In some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, before determining whether the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting conditions, the control method further includes:

[0109] Step S202: The air conditioner is in heating mode and has reached the second preset duration.

[0110] After the air conditioner has been running in heating mode for a period of time and its operating status has stabilized, it can be determined whether the air conditioner meets the defrosting conditions, preventing misjudgments caused by the unstable operating status of the air conditioner when it is first turned on. If the air conditioner meets the defrosting adjustment, the frequency of the reversing valve 2 and the compressor 1 of the air conditioner is adjusted to defrost the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0111] It should be noted that the range of the fourth preset duration is not limited here and can be set according to actual needs. For example, the fourth preset duration can be set to between tens of minutes and several hours, such as 40min-50min.

[0112] In some exemplary embodiments, the outdoor unit includes an electric heating device disposed at the bottom, wherein the electric heating device may be fixed to the chassis 10, and the electric heating device may be an electric heating rod.

[0113] Based on this, the control method also includes:

[0114] When the air conditioner is in de-icing mode, the electric heating device at the bottom of the outdoor unit is activated to start heating.

[0115] When the air conditioner exits the de-icing mode, the electric heating device at the bottom of the outdoor unit stops heating.

[0116] When the air conditioner is in de-icing mode, the electric heating element is activated to melt the ice, further reducing the de-icing time. When the air conditioner exits de-icing mode, the electric heating element stops heating to reduce energy consumption.

[0117] In some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the control method for the air conditioner includes the following steps:

[0118] Step S302: The air conditioner operates in heating mode for a preset time t1, and all flow controllers are turned on.

[0119] Step S304: Monitor the temperature of each temperature sensor (including the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor) of the outdoor heat exchanger;

[0120] Step S306: Determine whether the defrosting conditions are met. If yes, proceed to step S308; otherwise, return to step S304.

[0121] Step S308: Enter defrost mode and continue for the preset duration t2;

[0122] Step S310: Monitor the temperature of each temperature sensor (including the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor) of the outdoor heat exchanger;

[0123] Step S312: Determine whether the ice melting conditions are met. If yes, proceed to step S314; otherwise, proceed to step S316.

[0124] Step S314: Enter the ice melting mode. When the temperature of the first temperature sensor < T1 and the temperature of the second temperature sensor > T2, close n of the electronically controlled stop valves (flow controllers on the second branch flow path); operate for a preset duration t3. If the temperature of the first temperature sensor is still < T1, increase the number of closed electronically controlled stop valves by n; operate for the preset duration t3, and continue to monitor the first temperature sensor until all the electronically controlled stop valves are closed.

[0125] When the temperature of the first temperature sensor is between T1 and T2 (T2 > T1), reduce the number of closed electronically controlled stop valves by m.

[0126] Operate for the preset duration t3. When the temperature of the first temperature sensor > T2, open all the electronically controlled stop valves.

[0127] Step S316: Determine whether the defrosting exit condition is satisfied. If so, execute Step S318; if not, return to Step S308.

[0128] Step S318: Exit the defrosting mode and resume the heating operation.

[0129] In some exemplary embodiments, the control method of the air conditioner includes the following steps:

[0130] The air conditioner operates in the defrosting mode for about 30 s and then enters the ice melting mode.

[0131] If the temperature of the first temperature sensor 61 < 0°C and the temperature of the second temperature sensor 62 > 8°C, close 1 / 2 of the total number of flow controllers on the second branch flow path 35 (the upper 1 / 2); after 15 s, obtain the detected temperature of the first temperature sensor 61. If the detected temperature of the first temperature sensor 61 < 0°C, close all the flow controllers; continue to operate for 15 s. If the temperature of the first temperature sensor 61 is between 0°C and 8°C, open 1 / 2 of the number of the closed flow controllers (the lower 1 / 2); if the temperature of the first temperature sensor 61 > 8°C, open all the flow controllers.

[0132] If the average temperature of the first temperature sensor 61 and the second temperature sensor 62 > 18°C, exit the defrosting mode.

[0133] The embodiment of the present invention also provides a control device of an air conditioner, including a processor, a memory, and a computer program stored on the memory and executable on the processor. When the computer program is executed by the processor, the steps of the control method provided in any of the above embodiments are implemented.

[0134] As Figure 4As shown, this embodiment of the invention also provides an outdoor unit of an air conditioner, including: the control device described above, an outdoor heat exchanger 3, a temperature detection device, and at least one flow controller.

[0135] The outdoor heat exchanger 3 includes multiple parallel branch flow paths, including a first branch flow path 34 located at the bottom and at least one second branch flow path 35 located above the first branch flow path 34.

[0136] The flow control device includes at least one flow controller 7, which is disposed on at least one second branch flow path 35 to control the flow of the second branch flow path 35.

[0137] The temperature detection device includes a first temperature sensor 61 mounted on the outdoor heat exchanger 3 and at least one second temperature sensor 62 located above the first temperature sensor 61. The first temperature sensor 61 can be used to detect the temperature at the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, and the second temperature sensor 62 can detect the temperature in the upper middle part of the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0138] The control device is configured to control the operation of at least one flow controller 7 based on the detection results of the temperature detection device.

[0139] The control device can control the air conditioner to enter the defrosting mode. In the defrosting mode, the control device can control the opening or closing of at least one flow controller 7 based on the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor 61 and the second temperature sensor 62, thereby controlling the flow of at least one second branch flow path 35. When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the first preset condition, the flow of at least part of the second branch flow path 35 is reduced, thereby increasing the flow of the first branch flow path 34 at the bottom. This allows more high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant to flow through the first branch flow path 34 at the bottom, so as to quickly defrost the frost accumulated at the bottom of the outdoor unit. This avoids the problem of frost accumulating on the chassis 10 of the outdoor unit, causing deterioration of heating performance, or even interference with the outdoor unit's fan 4, leading to fan 4 failure or damage.

[0140] In some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the outdoor heat exchanger 3 also includes a manifold 36 located at the bottom, with multiple branch flow paths connected to the manifold 36. The manifold 36 can be located below the first branch flow path 34. A first temperature sensor 61 is installed on the coil of the manifold 36 and is configured to detect the temperature of the coil in the manifold 36.

[0141] The first temperature sensor 61 is located at the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 and can detect the frost (or defrosting) status at the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 and the icing (or de-icing) status of the outdoor unit's chassis 10. The coil temperature in the manifold 36 at the bottom of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 detected by the first temperature sensor 61 can be used to determine or assist in determining whether the air conditioner has entered defrosting mode, entered de-icing mode, exited defrosting mode, or exited de-icing mode, so as to control the on / off state or opening degree of the flow controller 7 based on the detection results of the first temperature sensor 61 and the second temperature sensor 62.

[0142] In some exemplary embodiments, the second temperature sensor 62 is disposed on the coil of the branch flow path, and may be disposed on the coil of the first branch flow path 34 and / or on the coil of the second branch flow path 35. One or more second temperature sensors 62 may be disposed.

[0143] The second temperature sensor 62, located on the coil of the branch flow path, is positioned higher than the first temperature sensor 61, located on the manifold 36. The second temperature sensor 62 can detect the temperature of the upper and middle parts of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, so as to know the frost or defrosting status of the upper and middle parts of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 based on the detection results of the second temperature sensor 62, and whether the air conditioner can enter the de-icing mode, and whether the flow rate of the second branch flow path 35 can be reduced to increase the flow rate of the first branch flow path 34, so as to melt the frost accumulated at the bottom.

[0144] In some exemplary embodiments, the number of flow controllers 7 is equal to and corresponds one-to-one with the number of second branch flow paths 35, and each flow controller 7 is configured to control the flow of the corresponding second branch flow path 35.

[0145] Alternatively, the number of flow controllers 7 may be less than the number of second branch flow paths 35, and at least one flow controller 7 may be configured to control the flow of multiple second branch flow paths 35 via a splitter.

[0146] In some exemplary embodiments, the flow controller 7 is an adjustable flow valve, such as an electronic expansion valve. Alternatively, the flow controller 7 is an on / off shut-off valve, such as an electrically controlled shut-off valve.

[0147] Of course, the flow controller 7 is not limited to electronic expansion valves or electrically controlled shut-off valves, but can also be other valve bodies with flow control functions.

[0148] In some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the windward side 31 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is exposed (the wind direction is as follows). Figure 5 (As shown by the middle arrow), and can be used as the exterior surface of the outdoor unit to reduce the amount of material used in the outdoor unit's casing, simplify the structure of the outdoor unit, and thus reduce the cost and weight of the entire unit.

[0149] In some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the outdoor unit also includes a defrosting device 8 and a chassis 10. The chassis 10 is located on the lower side of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, and the defrosting device 8 is located on the windward side of the outdoor heat exchanger 3. The first end (upper end) of the defrosting device 8 abuts against the windward surface 31 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, and the second end (lower end) extends toward the chassis 10 and crosses the gap between the chassis 10 and the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0150] The upper end of the defrosting device 8 is located above the chassis 10 and abuts against the windward side 31 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3. The lower end of the defrosting device 8 extends downward and crosses the gap between the chassis 10 and the outdoor heat exchanger 3, so that when the frost on the windward side 31 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 falls from top to bottom, it can slide along the defrosting device 8 and be directly discharged to the outside of the outdoor unit. The defrosting device 8 also blocks the gap between the outdoor heat exchanger 3 and the chassis 10, so that the fallen frost will not accumulate in the gap between the outdoor heat exchanger 3 and the chassis 10, thus affecting the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0151] In some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the defrosting device 8 includes a defrosting plate 81. The first end of the defrosting plate 81 abuts against the windward surface 31 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, and the second end extends toward the chassis 10 and across the gap between the chassis 10 and the outdoor heat exchanger 3 to block the gap between the chassis 10 and the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0152] The defrosting plate 81, on the side facing away from the windward side 31 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, can be an inclined guide surface. This allows frost falling from the windward side 31 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 to be directed to the outside of the outdoor unit, preventing it from accumulating in the gap between the outdoor heat exchanger 3 and the chassis 10. The angle between the guide surface and the windward side 31 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is an acute angle, and the specific value of this angle is not limited here, but can be between 10° and 60°.

[0153] The defrosting device 8 also includes a snap-fit ​​part 82, one end of which is connected to the side of the defrosting plate 81 opposite to the windward side 31 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, and the other end is snapped into the coil 33 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0154] One end of the snap-fit ​​part 82 is fixedly connected to the defrost plate 81, and the other end is snap-fitted to the coil 33 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 to fix the defrost device 8.

[0155] The defrosting device 8 can be fixed by simply snapping the snap-fit ​​part 82 to the coil 33, or it can be fixed to the chassis 10 to enhance the fixing effect of the defrosting device 8.

[0156] In some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 5As shown, the outdoor unit also includes a defrosting device 9, which is located on the leeward side of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 and close to the chassis 10. The defrosting device 9 is used to form a defrosting trough 91 for collecting frost that falls off the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0157] Frost falling from the leeward side 32 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 can fall into the defrost collection tank 91, preventing the frost from scattering inside the outdoor unit and interfering with other components of the outdoor unit (such as the impeller of the fan 4), thus affecting the operation of the entire unit. In addition, collecting the frost falling from the leeward side 32 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 into the defrost collection tank 91 facilitates the heating of the frost in the defrost collection tank 91 by the outdoor heat exchanger 3, causing the frost to melt into water and then be discharged.

[0158] In some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the defrosting device 9 includes a defrosting plate 92, which is arranged opposite to the leeward side 32 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3. The defrosting plate 92 can be a vertical plate and can be parallel to the leeward side 32 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3. The defrosting plate 92 can be fixed to the chassis 10, and the defrosting plate 92, the chassis 10, and the leeward side 32 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 cooperate to form a defrosting groove 91.

[0159] In some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the frost collection plate 92 is provided with ventilation holes 93. The diameter of the ventilation holes 93 can be 3mm-5mm. Of course, the diameter of the ventilation holes 93 is not limited to this range and can be adjusted according to the actual situation.

[0160] Ventilation holes 93 are provided on the frost collection plate 92 to reduce the obstruction of the heat exchange area of ​​the outdoor heat exchanger 3 by the frost collection plate 92, so as to ensure the heat exchange of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 when there is no frost accumulation.

[0161] In some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, along the height direction of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, the height H of the defrost plate 92 is 80mm to 100mm, that is, the height of the defrost trough 91 is 80mm to 100mm. For example, the height H of the defrost plate 92 can be 82mm, 85mm, 88mm, 90mm, 95mm, 98mm, etc.

[0162] The height H of the frost collection plate 92 is set to 80mm to 100mm. This ensures that the frost collection trough 91 has sufficient height to prevent falling frost from interfering with other components, while also preventing the height H of the frost collection plate 92 from being too large and thus affecting the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0163] In some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 5As shown, along the direction perpendicular to the leeward side 32 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, the distance W between the defrosting plate 92 and the leeward side 32 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is 30mm to 50mm, that is, the width of the defrosting groove 91 is 30mm to 50mm. For example, the distance W can be 35mm, 38mm, 40mm, 42mm, 45mm, 48mm, etc.

[0164] The height H of the frost collection plate 92 is 80mm to 100mm, and the distance W between the frost collection plate 92 and the leeward side 32 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is 30mm to 50mm, so that the frost collection groove 91 formed is sufficient to accommodate the falling frost and avoid interference between the frost and other components.

[0165] Of course, the height H of the defrosting plate 92 and the distance W between the defrosting plate 92 and the leeward side 32 of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 are not limited to the above ranges and can be adjusted according to the actual situation.

[0166] In some exemplary embodiments, the outdoor unit also includes an electric heating device disposed at the bottom, which can be fixed to the chassis 10. For example, the electric heating device is disposed in the defrost collection tank 91 to accelerate the melting of frost in the defrost collection tank 91. The electric heating device may be an electric heating rod.

[0167] In some exemplary embodiments, the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is coated with a hydrophobic coating. For example, the outdoor heat exchanger 3 may be a finned heat exchanger, and the fins may be coated with a hydrophobic coating, such as aluminum foil coated with a superhydrophobic coating.

[0168] The surface of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 is coated with a hydrophobic coating, which makes the outdoor heat exchanger 3 have a longer frosting time and a shorter defrosting time, which is beneficial to improving the heat exchange performance of the outdoor heat exchanger 3.

[0169] This invention also provides an air conditioner, including the outdoor unit of the air conditioner provided in any of the above embodiments.

[0170] like Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, in the air conditioner, compressor 1, reversing valve 2, outdoor heat exchanger 3, indoor heat exchanger 11 and throttling device 5 are connected to form a refrigerant flow channel.

[0171] This invention also provides a non-transient computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that can run on a processor. When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the steps of the control method provided in any of the above embodiments.

[0172] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0173] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0174] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0175] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a horizontal level less than or equal to the second feature.

[0176] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0177] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

[0178] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that all or some of the steps, systems, or apparatuses disclosed above, and their functional modules / units, can be implemented as software, firmware, hardware, or suitable combinations thereof. In hardware implementations, the division between functional modules / units mentioned above does not necessarily correspond to the division of physical components; for example, a physical component may have multiple functions, or a function or step may be performed collaboratively by several physical components. Some or all components may be implemented as software executed by a processor, such as a digital signal processor or microprocessor, or as hardware, or as an integrated circuit, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Such software may be distributed on a computer-readable medium, which may include computer storage media (or non-transitory media) and communication media (or transient media). As is known to those skilled in the art, the term computer storage media includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information (such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data). Computer storage media include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile disc (DVD) or other optical disc storage, magnetic cartridges, magnetic tape, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired information and can be accessed by a computer. Furthermore, it is well known to those skilled in the art that communication media typically contain computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in modulated data signals such as carrier waves or other transmission mechanisms, and may include any information delivery medium.

[0179] Furthermore, in describing representative embodiments, the specification may have presented methods and / or processes as a specific sequence of steps. However, the method or process should not be limited to the specific order of steps described herein, to the extent that it does not depend on such a specific order. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, other sequences of steps are also possible. Therefore, the specific order of steps set forth in the specification should not be construed as a limitation of the claims. Moreover, the claims relating to the method and / or process should not be limited to the steps performed in the order written, and those skilled in the art will readily understand that these orders can be varied and still remain within the spirit and scope of the embodiments of the invention.

Claims

1. A control method for an air conditioner, characterized in that, The outdoor heat exchanger of the air conditioner is equipped with a temperature detection device, which includes a first temperature sensor located at the bottom and at least one second temperature sensor located above the first temperature sensor. The outdoor heat exchanger has multiple parallel branch flow paths, including a first branch flow path located at the bottom and at least one second branch flow path located above the first branch flow path. The control method includes: When the air conditioner is in de-icing mode, the temperature detected by the temperature detection device is obtained; When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the first preset condition, at least a portion of the second branch flow route is controlled to reduce the first preset flow rate to the second preset flow rate until the second preset condition is met. When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets a first preset condition, controlling at least a portion of the second branch flow route to reduce the first preset flow rate to a second preset flow rate until the second preset condition is met includes: When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the first preset condition, the second branch flow path, which is furthest from the first branch flow path by a first preset number of times, is controlled to reduce the first preset flow rate to the second preset flow rate. When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the third preset condition, the remaining second branch flow paths at the first preset flow rate are controlled to reduce the second branch flow path furthest from the first branch flow path to the second preset flow rate until the second preset condition is met.

2. The control method for an air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first preset condition includes: the temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor is less than the first preset temperature, and the average temperature of all the second temperature sensors is greater than the second preset temperature, wherein the second preset temperature is not less than the first preset temperature; The third preset condition includes: the temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor is less than the third preset temperature; The second preset condition includes: the temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor is between the third preset temperature and the fourth preset temperature, wherein the fourth preset temperature is greater than the third preset temperature.

3. The control method for an air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the second preset condition, the flow rate of a portion of the second branch flow path, which is at the second preset flow rate, is increased to the first preset flow rate.

4. The control method for an air conditioner according to claim 3, characterized in that, The control is located in the second branch flow path of the second preset flow rate, and the flow rate of a portion of the second branch flow path is increased to the first preset flow rate, including: Except for the third preset number of second branch flows that are furthest from the first branch flow, control the remaining second branch flows at the second preset flow rate, and increase the fourth preset number of second branch flows that are closest to the first branch flow to the first preset flow rate.

5. The control method for an air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: When the temperature detected by the temperature detection device meets the fourth preset condition, all second branch flow paths are controlled to increase to the first preset flow rate, and the ice melting mode is exited.

6. The control method for an air conditioner according to claim 5, characterized in that, The fourth preset condition includes: the temperature value detected by the first temperature sensor is greater than the fourth preset temperature.

7. The control method for an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, When the second branch flow path is at the first preset flow rate, the flow controller on the second branch flow path is at its maximum opening. When the second branch flow path is at the second preset flow rate, the flow controller on the second branch flow path is disconnected.

8. The control method for an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Also includes: Determine whether the air conditioner meets the preset de-icing conditions; When the air conditioner meets the ice-melting conditions, the air conditioner is controlled to enter the ice-melting mode; The ice-melting conditions include: The temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is less than the fifth preset temperature, and the temperature detected by all the second temperature sensors is not less than the sixth preset temperature, wherein the sixth preset temperature is not less than the fifth preset temperature.

9. The control method for an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Also includes: When the air conditioner is in heating mode, determine whether the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting conditions; When the air conditioner meets the defrosting conditions, the air conditioner is controlled to enter the defrosting mode; When the air conditioner has been in the defrosting mode for a first preset time, it is determined whether the air conditioner meets the preset ice-melting conditions. When the air conditioner meets the ice-melting conditions, the air conditioner is controlled to enter the ice-melting mode.

10. The control method for an air conditioner according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: When the air conditioner exits the defrosting mode, it is determined whether the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting exit conditions; When the air conditioner meets the defrosting exit conditions, the air conditioner exits the defrosting mode and resumes the heating operation mode; When the air conditioner does not meet the conditions for exiting defrost, the air conditioner is controlled to enter the defrost mode.

11. The control method for an air conditioner according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: When the air conditioner has been in the defrosting mode for a first preset time, it is determined whether the air conditioner meets the preset defrosting exit conditions. When the air conditioner meets the defrosting exit condition, control the air conditioner to exit the defrosting mode and resume the heating operation mode; When the air conditioner does not meet the defrost exit condition and the ice melting condition, the air conditioner is controlled to maintain the defrost mode.

12. The control method for an air conditioner according to claim 10, characterized in that, The defrosting conditions include: The average value of the detected temperatures of all the second temperature sensors is less than the seventh preset temperature, or the average value of the detected temperatures of the first temperature sensor and all the second temperature sensors is less than the seventh preset temperature. The conditions for exiting defrosting include: The detected temperatures of the first temperature sensor and all the second temperature sensors are greater than the eighth preset temperature, and the average value of the detected temperatures of the first temperature sensor and all the second temperature sensors is greater than the ninth preset temperature.

13. The control method for an air conditioner according to claim 9, characterized in that, When the air conditioner is in defrosting mode, all second branch flow paths are at the first preset flow rate.

14. The control method for an air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Also includes: When the air conditioner is in the de-icing mode, the electric heating device at the bottom of the outdoor unit of the air conditioner is activated to start heating. When the air conditioner exits the de-icing mode, the electric heating device at the bottom of the outdoor unit of the air conditioner is controlled to stop heating.

15. A control device for an air conditioner, characterized in that, It includes a processor, a memory, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the computer program, when executed by the processor, implements the steps of the control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, characterized in that, include: The control device, outdoor heat exchanger, temperature detection device, and at least one flow controller as described in claim 15 The outdoor heat exchanger includes multiple parallel branch flow paths, and the multiple branch flow paths include a first branch flow path located at the bottom and at least one second branch flow path located above the first branch flow path; At least one of the flow controllers is disposed on at least one of the second branch flow paths; The temperature detection device is installed on the outdoor heat exchanger and includes a first temperature sensor located at the bottom and at least one second temperature sensor located above the first temperature sensor. The control device is configured to control the operation of at least one of the flow controllers based on the detection results of the temperature detection device.

17. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 16, characterized in that, The second temperature sensor is mounted on the coil of the branch flow path; The outdoor heat exchanger also includes a manifold located below the first branch, and multiple branch paths are connected to the manifold. The first temperature sensor is located on the coil of the manifold.

18. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 16, characterized in that, The number of flow controllers is equal to and corresponds one-to-one with the number of the second branch flow paths, and each flow controller is configured to control the flow of the corresponding second branch flow path; or, The number of flow controllers is less than the number of the second branch flow paths, and at least one of the flow controllers is configured to control the flow of multiple second branch flow paths via a splitter.

19. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that, The flow controller is either an adjustable flow valve or a shut-off valve.

20. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that, It also includes a defrosting device and a chassis. The chassis is located on the lower side of the outdoor heat exchanger, and the defrosting device is located on the windward side of the outdoor heat exchanger. The first end of the defrosting device abuts against the windward surface of the outdoor heat exchanger, and the second end extends toward the chassis and across the gap between the chassis and the outdoor heat exchanger.

21. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 20, characterized in that, The defrosting device includes a defrosting plate and a snap-fit ​​part. The first end of the defrosting plate abuts against the windward side of the outdoor heat exchanger, and the second end extends toward the chassis and across the gap between the chassis and the outdoor heat exchanger. The side of the defrosting plate away from the windward side of the outdoor heat exchanger is a guide surface that is inclined relative to the windward side of the outdoor heat exchanger. One end of the snap-fit ​​part is connected to the side of the defrosting plate opposite to the windward side of the outdoor heat exchanger, and the other end is snap-fitted to the coil of the outdoor heat exchanger.

22. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that, It also includes a defrosting device and a chassis. The chassis is located on the lower side of the outdoor heat exchanger, and the defrosting device is located on the leeward side of the outdoor heat exchanger and close to the chassis. The defrosting device is used to form a defrosting trough for collecting frost that falls off the outdoor heat exchanger.

23. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 22, characterized in that, The defrosting device includes a defrosting plate, which is arranged opposite to the leeward side of the outdoor heat exchanger and is fixed to the chassis. The defrosting plate, the chassis, and the leeward side of the outdoor heat exchanger cooperate to form the defrosting groove.

24. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 23, characterized in that, Along the height direction of the outdoor heat exchanger, the height of the defrosting plate is 80mm to 100mm; and / or, The defrosting plate is equipped with ventilation holes.

25. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 22, characterized in that, It also includes an electric heating device, which is installed inside the defrosting tank.

26. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that, The surface of the outdoor heat exchanger is coated with a hydrophobic coating.

27. An air conditioner, characterized in that, Includes the outdoor unit of the air conditioner as described in any one of claims 16 to 26.

28. A non-transient computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores a computer program that can run on a processor, which, when executed by the processor, implements the steps of the control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 14.

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