Methods and apparatus for controlling the compressor in an air conditioning system

Abstract

This application provides a method and system for controlling compressors in an air conditioning system. The method includes controlling N compressors of the air conditioning system to operate in several operating cycles. The method of controlling the N compressors to operate in one of the several operating cycles includes setting an operating cycle for the N compressors, setting a threshold X for the operating time of the N compressors, and within one operating cycle, loading and running all N compressors at least once. If all N compressors are loaded and have accumulated the operating time of the threshold X, then one operating cycle ends and the next operating cycle begins. This application ensures that multiple compressors are loaded and run for the same amount of time in each operating cycle, thereby ensuring that multiple compressors operate evenly within each operating cycle, and thus all compressors operate evenly across several operating cycles. Therefore, this application can achieve uniform compressor wear and extend the lifespan of the air conditioning system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to air conditioning systems, and more particularly to controlling compressors in air conditioning systems. Background Technology

[0002] As people's living standards continue to improve, air conditioning is becoming increasingly popular. In air conditioning systems, the control method for distributing the capacity of multiple inverter compressors directly affects the energy efficiency of the entire system, as well as the accuracy and stability of temperature regulation. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Currently, for most air conditioning systems, to balance the wear and tear on the multiple compressors, the compressor with the shortest operating time is prioritized when loading. However, the actual wear and tear of a compressor varies under different loads, operating conditions, and frequencies. Therefore, simply estimating compressor wear based on time is inaccurate.

[0004] This application sets several operating cycles for multiple compressors in an air conditioning system and controls these compressors to operate periodically within these cycles. Within one operating cycle, all compressors are loaded and accumulate operation for a predetermined threshold time before starting operation in the next cycle. If a compressor is loaded and accumulates operation for the predetermined threshold time within an operating cycle, it is unloaded and not loaded again in that cycle, but can be reloaded and run in the next cycle. This ensures that all compressors are loaded and run for the same amount of time in each cycle, resulting in balanced operation across the multiple operating cycles. Therefore, this application achieves uniform compressor wear and extends the lifespan of the air conditioning system.

[0005] Within an operating cycle, if all currently non-operating compressors among multiple compressors have been loaded and accumulated to a predetermined threshold time, the operating cycle is interrupted, and the compressors can be controlled to operate in the next operating cycle. Thus, if no compressor is available to be loaded within an operating cycle, but the air conditioning system currently requires a compressor, a compressor can be selected from the available compressors in the next operating cycle. Therefore, this application enables the air conditioning system to meet both the cyclical operation of the compressors and its load requirements, ensuring the normal operation of the air conditioning system.

[0006] According to the first aspect of this application, this application provides a method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system. The air conditioning system includes N compressors. The method controls the N compressors to operate in several operating cycles. The method for controlling the N compressors to operate in one of the several operating cycles includes the following steps (A), (B), (C), and (D). In step (A), an operating cycle is set for the N compressors. In step (B), a threshold X for operating time is set for the N compressors. In step (C), within one operating cycle, all N compressors are loaded and run at least once. In step (D), within one operating cycle, if all N compressors are loaded and have accumulated the operating threshold X time, then one operating cycle ends and the next operating cycle begins. The next operating cycle is one of the several operating cycles that is adjacent to and follows the previous operating cycle. Furthermore, in step (C), steps (1), (2), and (3) are performed according to the actual operating conditions of the air conditioning system. In step (1), if it is necessary to increase the load on the air conditioning system, the load of N compressors is allocated to meet the increased load, and the N compressors operate at the allocated load. In step (2), if it is necessary to reduce the load on the air conditioning system, the load of N compressors is allocated to meet the reduced load, and the N compressors operate at the allocated load. In step (3), if the load of the air conditioning system is met, the compressors that are currently running are kept running.

[0007] According to the first aspect of this application, step (C) further includes the following steps: within an operating cycle, if a compressor among the N compressors is loaded and accumulates an operating time of threshold X, the compressor that has accumulated an operating time of threshold X is unloaded and configured to not be loaded and run again within that operating cycle, but to be loaded and run in the next operating cycle.

[0008] According to the first aspect of this application, step (C) further includes the following steps: if, within an operating cycle, all of the N compressors that are not currently in operation have been loaded and have accumulated an operating time threshold X, then that operating cycle is interrupted and the next operating cycle begins.

[0009] According to the first aspect of this application, step (C) further includes the following steps: if there is a loadable compressor in the previous operating cycle, then the operating parameters of the previous operating cycle are obtained and N compressors are controlled to operate in the previous operating cycle; otherwise, the N compressors are controlled to continue operating in the current operating cycle, and the cumulative operating time of the loadable compressors is less than a threshold X. Step (C) also includes the following steps: if all the currently non-operating compressors among the N compressors in an operating cycle have been loaded and have all accumulated operating time of the threshold X, then that operating cycle is interrupted, and the next operating cycle begins, with the N compressors controlled to operate in the next operating cycle; otherwise, the N compressors are controlled to continue operating in the current operating cycle. The previous operating cycle is an operating cycle preceding one of several operating cycles.

[0010] According to the first aspect of this application, in step (3) of step (C), if a compressor is kept running while the load of the air conditioning system is met, and the cumulative running time of any compressor reaches a threshold X, then steps (3-1) and (3-2) are performed. In step (3-1), a compressor is selected from N loadable compressors, wherein the cumulative running time of the loadable compressor is less than the threshold X. In step (3-2), the selected compressor replaces the compressor whose cumulative running time has reached the threshold X to maintain the load of the air conditioning system.

[0011] According to the first aspect of this application, in step (3-2), the compressor whose cumulative operating time has reached a threshold X is replaced with a selected compressor. In step (3-2), after the replacement, load sharing is performed on the operating compressors (excluding the compressor whose cumulative operating time has reached the threshold X) and the selected compressor to maintain the load of the air conditioning system. In step (3-2), the load is distributed to the operating compressors (excluding the compressor whose cumulative operating time has reached the threshold X) and the selected compressor according to the load sharing scheme. In step (3-2), the operating compressors (excluding the compressor whose cumulative operating time has reached the threshold X) and the selected compressor operate at the allocated load, and the compressor whose cumulative operating time has reached the threshold X is unloaded, thereby maintaining the load of the air conditioning system.

[0012] According to the first aspect of this application, in step (1), if it is necessary to increase the load of the air conditioning system, the load of the operating compressors among the N compressors is allocated to meet the required increase in load. After the load allocation, the following steps (1-1) and (1-2) are performed. In step (1-1), if the load rate of the compressor without compressors after allocation exceeds the maximum optimized load rate, the load is allocated to the operating compressors according to the load allocation scheme, and the operating compressors are made to operate at the allocated load. In step (1-2), if the load rate of the compressors after allocation exceeds the maximum optimized load rate, a compressor is selected from the loadable compressors among the N compressors such that after the load allocation of the operating compressors and the selected compressors according to the required increase in load, the load rate of the compressor without compressors exceeds the maximum optimized load rate. Therefore, the load is allocated to the operating compressors and the selected compressors according to the load allocation scheme, and the operating compressors and the selected compressors are made to operate at the allocated load. The cumulative operating time of the loadable compressors is less than a threshold X. The load rate of the compressor is the ratio of the actual load of the compressor to the maximum load. The maximum optimized load rate is the maximum load rate when the compressor is in the optimized load rate range.

[0013] According to the first aspect of this application, in step (2), if it is necessary to reduce the load of the air conditioning system, the load of the operating compressors among the N compressors is allocated to meet the required load reduction. After the load allocation, the following steps (2-1) and (2-2) are performed. In step (2-1), if the load rate of no compressor exceeds the minimum optimized load rate after allocation, the load is allocated to the operating compressors according to the load allocation scheme, and the operating compressors operate at the allocated load. In step (2-2), if the load rate of a compressor exceeds the minimum optimized load rate after allocation, a compressor is selected from the operating compressors such that after load allocation to the operating compressors other than the selected compressor according to the required load reduction, the load rate of no compressor exceeds the minimum optimized load rate. Therefore, the load is allocated to the operating compressors other than the selected compressor according to the load allocation scheme, the operating compressors other than the selected compressor operate at the allocated load, and the selected compressor is unloaded. The compressor load rate is the ratio of the actual load to the maximum load of the compressor. The minimum optimized load rate is the minimum load rate at which the compressor is within the optimized load rate range.

[0014] According to a first aspect of this application, the step of selecting a compressor includes randomly selecting one compressor from the selectable compressors. In step (3-1), the loadable compressor among the N compressors is the selectable compressor. In step (1-2), the loadable compressor among the N compressors is the selectable compressor. In step (2-2), the compressor currently in operation is the selectable compressor.

[0015] According to the first aspect of this application, the step of randomly selecting one compressor from a selectable compressor includes the following steps (I), (II), (III), and (IV). In step (I), a random number R between 0 and 1 is randomly generated for each compressor in the selectable compressors. In step (II), a threshold F(n) for each compressor is calculated based on the following formula.

[0016]

[0017] in,

[0018] n is the compressor's serial number.

[0019] P represents the probability that each compressor is selected, and the probability is 1 / (the total number of compressors that can be selected in the current selection).

[0020] r represents the number of times a compressor will be selected from the available compressors during the operation of the air conditioning system.

[0021] mod(1 / P) represents the remainder obtained when the quotient of 1 / P is rounded down.

[0022] G is the set of compressors that can be selected in the current selection.

[0023] In step (III), the random number R for each compressor is compared with the threshold F(n).

[0024] In step (IV), if the random number for only one compressor is less than the threshold F(n), a compressor is selected; otherwise, steps (I), (III), and (IV) are repeated. In steps (3-1), (1-2), and (2-2), r is counted independently. When the air conditioning system is stopped and then restarted, r is counted again.

[0025] According to a first aspect of this application, the load allocation step includes performing load allocation so that the compressors assigned loads have the same load rate.

[0026] According to the first aspect of this application, in steps (1), (2) and (3), after the step of allocating the load to the compressors according to the load allocation scheme, the following steps are also performed: if one of the operating compressors with allocated loads has a limitation that prevents it from changing the load, the compressor with the limitation is kept in its operating state, and the other compressors with allocated loads are operated at the allocated load.

[0027] According to the first aspect of this application, when the air conditioning system is stopped and then restarted, the stored operating parameters of the air conditioning system during the operating cycle in which it was required to stop are obtained, and N compressors are controlled to continue operating during the operating cycle in which the air conditioning system was required to stop.

[0028] According to the first aspect of this application, if one of the N compressors fails and stops working, then steps (A)-(D) are performed on the compressors other than the one that failed.

[0029] According to the first aspect of this application, in step (C), the load demand of the air conditioning system is obtained based on the temperature difference between the actual indoor temperature and the set indoor temperature of the air conditioning control unit, and the rate of change of the actual indoor temperature difference. In step (C), steps (1), (2), or (3) of step (C) are performed based on the obtained load demand of the air conditioning system. The air conditioning system is used to provide cooling and / or heating to the air conditioning control unit. The load demand of the air conditioning system includes the need to increase the load of the air conditioning system, the need to reduce the load of the air conditioning system, and meeting the load of the air conditioning system.

[0030] According to the first aspect of this application, in step (C), the previous actual indoor temperature of the air conditioning system is detected and the previous set indoor temperature is obtained at a previous time point, and the current actual indoor temperature of the air conditioning system is detected and the current set indoor temperature is obtained at a current time point, wherein time t has elapsed from the previous time point to the current time point. In step (C), the previous indoor temperature difference is obtained based on the difference between the detected previous actual indoor temperature and the obtained previous set indoor temperature, the current indoor temperature difference is obtained based on the difference between the detected current actual indoor temperature and the obtained current set indoor temperature, and the current temperature difference change rate is obtained based on the result of dividing the difference between the current indoor temperature difference and the previous indoor temperature difference by time t. In step (C), the load demand of the air conditioning system is obtained based on the current indoor temperature difference and the current temperature difference change rate. In step (C), steps (1), (2), or (3) in step (C) are performed based on the obtained load demand of the air conditioning system.

[0031] According to the first aspect of this application, in step (C), prior to step (1), the following steps are performed: if the air conditioning system is initially started, one or more compressors are selected from N compressors, the selected compressors are load-allocated to meet the initial load requirements of the air conditioning system, and the selected compressors are operated at the allocated load.

[0032] According to the first aspect of this application, the initial load demand is obtained based on the actual indoor temperature and the set indoor temperature of the air conditioning control unit. The air conditioning system is used to provide cooling and / or heating to the air conditioning control unit.

[0033] According to the first aspect of this application, a loadable compressor is determined based on at least the following: the compressor's preheating time meets the requirements; the compressor is not currently running; the compressor's restart interval has been reached; and the compressor is fault-free.

[0034] According to a second aspect of this application, a system for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system is provided. The system includes a detection system and a control system. The detection system is connected to the air conditioning system and configured to detect the operating status of the air conditioning system. The control system is connected to the detection system. The control system includes a processor and a memory. The control system is configured to perform the aforementioned steps to control the operation of the compressor in the air conditioning system based on the operating status of the air conditioning system detected by the detection system and control inputs.

[0035] According to a second aspect of this application, the detection system includes a temperature detection device, a timing device, a fault detection device, and an operating status detection device. The temperature detection device is configured to detect the indoor temperature of the air conditioning control unit. The timing device is configured to detect at least one of the cumulative running time, preheating time, and restart interval time of N compressors. The fault detection device is configured to detect whether any of the N compressors have malfunctioned. The operating status detection device is configured to detect the operating status of the N compressors. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The accompanying drawings are not to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component shown in different figures is indicated by the same reference numerals. For clarity, not every component may be labeled in every drawing. In the drawings:

[0037] Figure 1 A logic block diagram of the system for controlling the compressor in an air conditioning system according to this application is shown;

[0038] Figure 2 Controls are shown Figure 1 The flowchart shows the method for using N compressors in an air conditioning system.

[0039] Figure 3The control is shown when the air conditioning system is stopped and then restarted. Figure 1 The flowchart shows the method for using N compressors in an air conditioning system.

[0040] Figure 4A It shows Figure 2 and Figure 3 The flowchart shown is a flowchart of the initial loading step.

[0041] Figure 4B It shows Figure 4A Detailed flowchart;

[0042] Figure 4C A schematic diagram showing the relationship between compressor load rate and energy efficiency is provided.

[0043] Figure 5 It shows Figure 2 and Figure 3 The flowchart shown is a flowchart of the execution judgment step;

[0044] Figure 6 It shows Figure 2 and Figure 3 The flowchart shown is a flowchart of the loading process steps.

[0045] Figure 7 It shows Figure 2 and Figure 3 The flowchart shown is a flowchart of the hold processing steps;

[0046] Figure 8 It shows Figure 2 and Figure 3 The flowchart shown is a flowchart of the unloading process steps.

[0047] Figure 9 It shows Figures 4A-4B and Figures 6-8 The flowchart shown is a flowchart of the compressor selection step; and

[0048] Figure 10 It shows that according to Figure 1 The block diagram of the control system is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0049] Specific embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that, where possible, the same or similar reference numerals used in this application refer to the same parts.

[0050] Figure 1A logic block diagram of a system 100 for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system is shown, illustrating the main functional modules of the software and hardware of the system for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system.

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, the system 100 for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to this application includes an air conditioning system 101, a detection system 102, and a control system 103. The air conditioning system 101 includes a condenser 104, an expansion valve 105, an evaporator 106, and a compressor unit 107, which are connected in sequence to provide a cooling and heating cycle to output cooling and heating capacity. The air conditioning system 101 is capable of providing cooling and / or heating capacity to an air conditioning control unit (not shown). The compressor unit 107 includes multiple compressors 107.1, 107.2, ... 107.N. When the air conditioning system 101 is operating, the multiple compressors 107.1, 107.2, ... 107.N operate at the required operating frequency so that the air conditioning system 101 provides the required cooling and / or heating capacity to the air conditioning control unit.

[0052] The detection system 102 is connected to the air conditioning system 101 and can monitor the operating parameters of various components of the air conditioning system 101. The detection system 102 is also connected to the control system 103 and can send the monitored operating parameters of the air conditioning system 101 to the control system 103. The control system 103 can control the operation of the air conditioning system 101 according to the received operating parameters of the air conditioning system 101.

[0053] The detection system 102 includes a temperature detection device 108, a timing device 109, a fault detection device 110, and an operating status detection device 111. The temperature detection device 108 is connected to the return air vent of the air conditioning system 101 via a connecting cable 112 to detect the temperature at the return air vent, i.e., the actual indoor temperature of the air conditioning control unit. The timing device 109 is connected to the compressor unit 107 via a connecting cable 113 to detect the cumulative operating time, preheating time, restart interval, etc., of multiple compressors 107.1, 107.2, ... 107.N in the compressor unit 107. The fault detection device 110 is connected to the compressor unit 107 via a connecting cable 114 to detect faults occurring in the multiple compressors 107.1, 107.2, ... 107.N in the compressor unit 107 and generate a fault signal. The operating status detection device 111 is connected to the compressor unit 107 via a connecting line 115 to detect the operating status of multiple compressors 107.1, 107.2, ... 107.N in the compressor unit 107 and generate compressor operating status signals. In other embodiments, the detection system 102 includes other suitable devices and structures to detect the required system parameters.

[0054] The control system 103 is connected to the temperature detection device 108 via connection line 116 to receive the actual indoor temperature detected by the temperature detection device 108. The control system 103 is connected to the timing device 109 via connection lines 117, 118, and 119 to receive operating parameters such as cumulative running time, preheating time, and restart interval time detected by the timing device 109. In other embodiments, connection lines 117, 118, and 119 are combined into a single connection line. The control system 103 is connected to the fault detection device 110 via connection line 120 to receive fault signals detected by the fault detection device 110. The control system 103 is connected to the operating status detection device 111 via connection line 130 to receive the compressor operating status signal detected by the operating status detection device 111. The control system 103 also receives user control input via connection line 132, such as the user-set indoor temperature. Furthermore, the control system 103 also receives user control input via connection line 133, such as the user-set bus capacity of the outdoor unit. In other embodiments, the control system 103 acquires the required system parameters through other suitable structures or methods.

[0055] The control system 103 can generate compressor control signals based on received data such as actual indoor temperature, cumulative running time, preheating time, restart interval, fault signal, compressor operating status signal, set indoor temperature, and outdoor unit horsepower, to control the operation of multiple compressors 107.1, 107.2, ... 107.N. The detection system 102 also includes other detection devices to detect other operating parameters of the air conditioning system 101 and can send these operating parameters to the control system 103, so that the control system 103 can generate other control signals based on these operating parameters, such as condenser control signals, expansion valve control signals, and evaporator control signals, to control the normal operation of the air conditioning system.

[0056] Figure 2 Controls are shown Figure 1 The flowchart 200 shows a method for controlling N compressors 107.1, 107.2, ..., 107.N in the air conditioning system 101 shown, illustrating the specific operation of one embodiment of controlling multiple compressors.

[0057] like Figure 2 As shown, at step 202, the operation of N compressors is started, and then the process proceeds to step 204.

[0058] In step 204, an operating cycle is set for N compressors (i.e., compressors 107.1, 107.2, ..., 107.N), and then proceed to step 206.

[0059] In step 206, a threshold X for the running time is set for N compressors (i.e., compressors 107.1, 107.2, ..., 107.N), and then proceed to step 208.

[0060] In step 208, it is determined whether the air conditioning system 101 is undergoing initial startup. If the air conditioning system 101 is undergoing initial startup, proceed to step 210. If the air conditioning system 101 is not undergoing initial startup, proceed to step 212. Initial startup indicates that the air conditioning system 101 has gone from never running to starting running, and the various components of the air conditioning system 101 have begun to operate.

[0061] In step 210, the initial loading process is performed (see...). Figures 4A-4B Then proceed to step 212.

[0062] In step 212, the operating status of the air conditioning system 101 is monitored and the operating parameters of the air conditioning system 101 are obtained, and then the process proceeds to step 214.

[0063] In step 214, it is determined whether the waiting time has been reached. If the waiting time has not been reached, the process continues to wait and proceeds to step 212 to continue monitoring the operation of the air conditioning system 101 and obtaining its operating parameters. If the waiting time has been reached, the process proceeds to step 216. This waiting time is set to allow the air conditioning system 101 to operate stably for a period of time to facilitate subsequent steps. Stable operation of the air conditioning system 101 is beneficial for the execution of subsequent steps, such as performing the judgment operation in step 226. In one embodiment, the waiting time is set to 30 seconds. In other embodiments, the waiting time is set to other suitable times.

[0064] In step 216, it is determined whether there was a compressor available to be loaded in the previous running cycle. If there was no compressor available to be loaded in the previous running cycle, proceed to step 220, allowing the compressor to continue running in the current running cycle. If there was a compressor available to be loaded in the previous running cycle, proceed to step 218, allowing the compressor to run in the previous running cycle. In other embodiments, other suitable methods are used to determine whether the compressor should run in the previous running cycle, so that the previous running cycle can be completed as quickly as possible.

[0065] In step 220, it is determined whether the cumulative running time Tn of all compressors that have not run in the current operating cycle has reached a threshold X (Tn≥X). If the cumulative running time Tn of all compressors that have not run in the current operating cycle has reached the threshold X, it indicates that there are no compressors to be loaded in the current operating cycle, and the process proceeds to step 222. In step 222, the running time of the compressors whose cumulative running time Tn has reached the threshold X is reset to zero. When there are no compressors to be loaded in the current operating cycle, the current operating cycle is interrupted, and the next operating cycle is started so that the air conditioning system 101 can operate normally. For example, when a compressor needs to be loaded, this application can load the compressor in the next operating cycle to meet the load required for the normal operation of the air conditioning system 101 while the compressor is running cyclically. After step 222, the process proceeds to step 204, and the compressors in the air conditioning system 101 are controlled to start running in the next operating cycle. In other embodiments, other suitable methods are used to determine whether to interrupt the current operating cycle and start the next operating cycle so that the air conditioning system 101 can operate normally.

[0066] In step 220, if the cumulative running time Tn of the compressor that has not been running in the current operating cycle has not reached the threshold X, then proceed to step 224 to allow the compressor to continue running in the current operating cycle.

[0067] In step 224, a loadable compressor is determined, and then the process proceeds to step 226. In one embodiment, a loadable compressor is determined from compressors whose cumulative running time Tn has not reached a threshold X based on at least the following: the compressor's preheating time meets the requirement, the compressor is not currently running, the compressor's restart interval time has been reached, and the compressor is fault-free. For example, the compressor's restart interval is 3 minutes. This application can set other suitable restart intervals for compressors. In other embodiments, other suitable methods are used to determine the loadable compressor.

[0068] In step 226, an execution judgment process is performed (see...). Figure 5 Based on the load demand of the air conditioning system 101, determine whether to perform load loading, maintain load, or reduce load. If it is necessary to increase the load on the air conditioning system 101, proceed to step 228 to perform load loading (see...). Figure 6 If the load of air conditioning system 101 is met, proceed to step 230 to perform the hold process (see...). Figure 7 If it is necessary to reduce the load on the air conditioning system 101, proceed to step 232 to perform load reduction processing (see...). Figure 8 ).

[0069] After performing the loading process in step 228, proceed to step 234. After performing the holding process in step 230, proceed to step 234. After performing the unloading process in step 232, proceed to step 234.

[0070] In step 234, it is determined whether the air conditioning system 101 needs to be shut down (i.e., stop operating). If the air conditioning system 101 needs to be shut down, proceed to step 236 to end control of the compressor. If the air conditioning system 101 does not need to be shut down, proceed to step 212 to continue monitoring the operation of the air conditioning system 101 and perform subsequent operations. In one embodiment, when the user does not need the air conditioning system 101 to run, the user inputs to control the air conditioning system 101 to shut down. In another embodiment, the air conditioning system 101 is controlled to shut down when a compressor failure is detected. In other embodiments, the air conditioning system 101 is controlled to shut down based on other suitable needs and / or using other suitable methods. In other embodiments, if one of the N compressors fails and stops working, the compressors other than the failed compressor can continue to run, and the compressor control operations of this application can be performed.

[0071] As previously described, in step 216, if there is a loadable compressor in the previous running cycle, proceed to step 218, allowing the compressor to run in the previous running cycle. In step 218, enter the unfinished previous running cycle, obtain the stored operating parameters related to that previous running cycle, and then proceed to step 224. After step 218, perform subsequent steps (steps 224, 226, etc.) in the unfinished previous running cycle. When performing subsequent steps in the unfinished previous running cycle, the currently running compressor remains in operation without modification, and when a compressor needs to be loaded, select one from the loadable compressors in the previous running cycle. For example, after step 218, proceed to step 224 to determine the loadable compressor in the previous running cycle based on the obtained operating parameters related to that previous running cycle. In step 228, when a compressor needs to be loaded, select one from the loadable compressors in the unfinished previous running cycle (see...). Figure 6 In step 230, when a compressor needs to be loaded to replace one that has accumulated a threshold of runtime, a compressor is selected from the loadable compressors in the previous running cycle that has never ended (see...). Figure 7The system enters a previous operating cycle before it has finished, ensuring that when the compressor needs to be loaded, it prioritizes loading the compressor from the previous cycle, thus allowing the previous cycle to end first. By controlling the compressor to run in the current cycle and prioritize ending the previous cycle, the system ensures that each operating cycle is completed in sequence, thereby achieving balanced compressor wear.

[0072] It should be noted that, Figure 2 The above steps can be appropriately rearranged, replaced with other suitable steps, or appropriate steps can be added to achieve the operation of the N compressors of the air conditioning system 101 controlled by this application.

[0073] Figure 3 The control is shown when the air conditioning system 101 is stopped and then restarted. Figure 1 The flowchart 300 illustrates the method for controlling N compressors 107.1, 107.2, ..., 107.N in the air conditioning system 101 shown, to illustrate the specific operation of one embodiment of controlling multiple compressors.

[0074] Figure 3 The flowchart of the method for controlling N compressors 107.1, 107.2, ..., 107.N in the air conditioning system 101 is as follows: Figure 2 The flowcharts for the methods of controlling the N compressors 107.1, 107.2, ..., 107.N in the air conditioning system 101 are roughly the same. Figure 3 Zhongyu Figure 2 The specific operations performed by the steps with the same labels in the text are the same as those in the text. Figure 2 Same. The difference is, Figure 3 After the operation of controlling the N compressors 107.1, 107.2, ..., 107.N in the air conditioning system 101 begins at step 302, the process proceeds to step 304. Here, the stored operating parameters for the operating cycle in which the air conditioning system 101 is required to stop are retrieved, and the N compressors 107.1, 107.2, ..., 107.N continue operating within the operating cycle in which the air conditioning system 101 is required to stop. Then, the process proceeds from step 304 to step 208 to continue with the subsequent steps. Figure 3 These steps continue to run during a pause in the operating cycle when the air conditioning system 101 is required to stop operating.

[0075] Figure 4A It shows Figure 2 and Figure 3 The flowchart shown is a flowchart of the initial loading process step 210, illustrating the specific operation of one embodiment of the initial loading process.

[0076] like Figure 4A As shown, if in Figure 2 and Figure 3 If step 208 indicates that the air conditioning system 101 is undergoing initial startup, then proceed to step 402 to begin. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The initial loading process 210 is performed in the middle.

[0077] In step 402, the initial load demand of the air conditioning system 101 is obtained based on the actual indoor temperature and the set indoor temperature of the air conditioning control unit, and then the process proceeds to step 404. In one embodiment, initial energy demand is used to indicate the initial load demand of the air conditioning system 101, wherein the initial energy demand corresponds to the total operating frequency of the N compressors in the air conditioning system 101. In other embodiments, other suitable parameters are used to indicate the initial load demand of the air conditioning system 101.

[0078] In one embodiment, the initial energy requirement of the air conditioning system 101 is determined based on the total horsepower (HP) of the N outdoor units in the air conditioning system 101 and the temperature difference between the actual indoor temperature and the set indoor temperature of the air conditioning control unit, wherein each outdoor unit includes one compressor. In one embodiment, the initial energy requirement is obtained by the following formula: Initial Energy Requirement = HP * A / 2, where HP represents the total horsepower of the N outdoor units of the air conditioning system 101, and A represents a coefficient. This coefficient A varies depending on the temperature difference between the actual indoor temperature and the set indoor temperature (Ts) of the air conditioning control unit. The total horsepower (HP) of the N outdoor units can be set by the user and obtained by, for example, the control system 103 via communication. The actual indoor temperature of the air conditioning control unit can be obtained using the return air temperature (Ta) of the air conditioning system 101. For example, a temperature detection device is installed at the return air vent of the air conditioning system 101 to detect the return air temperature (Ta). The set indoor temperature (Ts) of the air conditioning control unit can be obtained through user control input. For example, if the user inputs the desired indoor temperature (Ts) via a remote control, the control system 103 can receive and store this set indoor temperature.

[0079] In one embodiment, Table 1 below shows the relationship between the temperature difference between the actual indoor temperature Ta and the set indoor temperature Ts of the air conditioning control unit and the coefficient A:

[0080] interval ≧4 3～4 2～3 1～2 0～1 ≤0 coefficient a b c d e f

[0081] Table 1

[0082] When Ta-Ts≧4, A=a;

[0083] When 3 ≤ Ta - Ts < 4, A = b;

[0084] When 2 ≤ Ta - Ts < 3, A = c;

[0085] When 1≤Ta-Ts<2, A=d;

[0086] When 0 ≤ Ta - Ts < 1, A = e; and

[0087] When Ta-Ts<0, A=f.

[0088] And among them, a > b > c > d > e > f.

[0089] The initial energy demand of the air conditioning system 101 corresponds to the total operating frequency of the N outdoor units in the air conditioning system 101, which is the sum of the operating frequencies of each outdoor unit. The operating frequency of the outdoor units can be indicated by the operating frequency of the compressor in the outdoor unit. In one embodiment, Table 2 below shows the correspondence between the energy demand of the air conditioning system 101 and the operating frequency (in Hz) of one compressor in the air conditioning system 101:

[0090]

[0091] Table 2

[0092] The control system 103 can also set the voltage of the compressor of the air conditioning system 101 according to the allocated energy demand so that the compressor operates at the required operating frequency, thereby making the air conditioning system 101 operate at the required operating frequency.

[0093] In step 404, a compressor is selected from N compressors 107.1, 107.2, ..., 107.N, and then the process proceeds to step 406. The desired compressor is selected from the N compressors 107.1, 107.2, ..., 107.N based on the initial energy requirement of the air conditioning system 101 obtained in step 402. In one embodiment, one compressor is selected from the N compressors 107.1, 107.2, ..., 107.N, which includes randomly selecting a compressor. In other embodiments, a suitable number of compressors are selected from the N compressors 107.1, 107.2, ..., 107.N.

[0094] In step 406, the selected compressor is load-allocated to meet the initial load demand, and then the process proceeds to step 408. In one embodiment, energy demand is allocated based on the selected compressor to meet the initial energy demand of the acquired air conditioning system 101.

[0095] In step 408, the selected compressor is operated at the allocated load, and then proceeds to... Figure 2 and Figure 3Step 212. In one embodiment, energy demand is allocated to the selected compressor based on the allocation scheme in step 406. In operation, a voltage corresponding to the allocated energy demand is set for the selected compressor and the compressor is operated at that corresponding voltage so that the compressor operates at the corresponding desired operating frequency.

[0096] Figure 4B It shows Figure 4A A detailed flowchart to illustrate Figure 2 and Figure 3 A detailed flowchart of an embodiment of the initial loading process step 210 in the flowchart.

[0097] like Figure 4B As shown, if in Figure 2 and Figure 3 If step 208 determines that the air conditioning system 101 is in its initial startup, then proceed to step 410 to begin. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The operation of the initial loading step 210 in the process.

[0098] In step 410, the initial load demand is obtained based on the actual indoor temperature and the set indoor temperature of the air conditioning control unit, and then the process proceeds to step 412. Figure 4B Step 410 and Figure 4A The same as step 402 in the previous section.

[0099] In step 412, a compressor is selected from the loadable compressors, and then the process proceeds to step 414. This selection includes randomly selecting a compressor.

[0100] In step 414, the selected compressor is load-allocated to meet the initial load demand, and then the process proceeds to step 416. In one embodiment, the selected compressor is energy-demand-allocated to meet the initial energy demand of the air conditioning system 101 obtained in step 410.

[0101] In step 416, it is determined whether any compressor load rate exceeds the maximum optimized load rate after the load allocation in step 414. If any compressor load rate exceeds the maximum optimized load rate after the load allocation in step 414, the process proceeds to step 412, where another compressor is selected for load allocation, i.e., load allocation is performed on the previously selected compressor and the currently selected compressor. If multiple compressors are selected cumulatively, the selected compressors are made to reach the same load rate during load allocation to meet the initial energy demand of the air conditioning system 101. Making the selected compressors reach the same load rate allows for balanced wear of different compressors. The compressor load rate is the ratio of the compressor's actual load to its maximum load. When energy demand is used to indicate the load demand of the air conditioning system 101, the compressor load rate can be the ratio of the compressor's actual energy demand to its maximum energy demand. When a compressor is selected for load allocation, that compressor operates within the optimized load rate range, thereby enabling the air conditioning system 101 to operate with high energy efficiency. Repeat steps 412 and 414 until it is determined in step 416 that the load rate without compressor exceeds the maximum optimized load rate, then proceed to step 418.

[0102] An optimized load rate range is set for each of the N compressors, including a minimum optimized load rate and a maximum optimized load rate. When operating within this optimized load rate range (i.e., the range between the minimum and maximum optimized load rates), the compressors can operate with high energy efficiency. This application enables each compressor to operate at the same load rate within its respective optimized load rate range, thereby achieving even wear on each compressor and enabling the air conditioning system 101 to operate with high energy efficiency. In other embodiments, other suitable methods are used to distribute the load among the compressors.

[0103] In step 416, if the load rate of the compressor-free unit exceeds the maximum optimized load rate after the load allocation in step 414, proceed to step 418.

[0104] In step 418, the selected compressor is operated at the allocated load, and then proceeds to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 Step 212 in the process.

[0105] Figure 4C A schematic diagram showing the relationship between compressor load rate and energy efficiency is provided to illustrate the relationship between compressor load rate and energy efficiency.

[0106] like Figure 4CAs shown, for N compressors, an optimal load rate range (a, c) is set for each of the N compressors (e.g., variable frequency compressors). Within the optimal load rate range (a, c), the operating energy efficiency COP of each of the N compressors is greater than or equal to a predetermined energy efficiency value COP. target Within the optimized load rate range (a, c), as the compressor load rate gradually increases from load rate a (minimum optimized load rate), the compressor's operating energy efficiency (COP) decreases from the predetermined efficiency value COP. target Gradually increase the load until the compressor load rate reaches load rate b, at which point the compressor's operating energy efficiency COP reaches its maximum operating energy efficiency COP. Max As the compressor load rate continues to gradually increase from load rate b, the compressor's operating energy efficiency COP decreases from the maximum operating energy efficiency COP. Max The load gradually decreases until the compressor load rate reaches the load rate c (maximum optimized load rate). At this point, the compressor's operating energy efficiency COP reaches the predetermined efficiency value COP. target When the compressor's load rate is lower than load rate a or higher than load rate c, the compressor's operating energy efficiency (COP) is lower than the predetermined energy efficiency value (COP). target Setting the compressor load rate within the optimized load rate range (a, c) allows the compressor to operate with high energy efficiency, thereby enabling the air conditioning system 101 to operate with high energy efficiency. The highest optimized load rate in step 416 is... Figure 4C The optimized load rate c of the compressor is shown. For example, referring to Table 2, in one embodiment, the compressor reaches the minimum optimized load rate a (i.e., 30 / 90 ≈ 0.33) when the compressor operates at a frequency of 30 Hz (corresponding to an energy requirement of 4), and reaches the minimum optimized load rate c (i.e., 60 / 90 ≈ 0.67) when the compressor operates at a frequency of 60 Hz (corresponding to an energy requirement of 19). In other embodiments, the compressor has a minimum optimized load rate a and a maximum optimized load rate c at other suitable operating frequencies and energy requirements.

[0107] Figure 5 It shows Figure 2 and Figure 3 The flowchart shown is a flowchart of the execution judgment step 226, illustrating the specific operation of one embodiment of the execution judgment.

[0108] like Figure 5 As shown, from Figure 2 and Figure 3 Step 224 in the process will proceed to step 502, and the operation of judgment 226 will begin.

[0109] In step 502, the temperature difference between the actual indoor temperature and the set indoor temperature of the air conditioning control unit and the rate of change of the actual indoor temperature difference are obtained, and then the process proceeds to step 504.

[0110] In one embodiment, the previous actual indoor temperature of the air conditioning control unit and the previous set indoor temperature of the air conditioning control unit are detected at a previous moment, and the current actual indoor temperature of the air conditioning control unit and the current set indoor temperature of the air conditioning control unit are detected at the current moment. Time t has elapsed from the previous moment to the current moment. The previous indoor temperature difference is obtained based on the difference between the detected previous actual indoor temperature and the obtained previous set indoor temperature, and the current indoor temperature difference is obtained based on the difference between the detected current actual indoor temperature and the obtained current set indoor temperature. Furthermore, the current temperature difference change rate is obtained by dividing the difference between the current indoor temperature difference and the previous indoor temperature difference by time t.

[0111] In step 504, the load demand of the air conditioning system is obtained based on the temperature difference and the rate of change of the temperature difference, and then the process proceeds to step 506. In one embodiment, the energy demand correction value P of the air conditioning system 101 is obtained based on the current indoor temperature difference and the current rate of change of the temperature difference obtained in step 502. Then, loading, maintaining, and unloading determination processes are performed based on the obtained energy demand correction value P of the air conditioning system 101.

[0112] In one embodiment, the energy demand correction value P of the air conditioning system 101 is obtained based on the following Table 3:

[0113]

[0114] Table 3

[0115] In Table 3 above, △Ts represents the current indoor temperature difference, △W represents the current rate of change of temperature difference, D is a positive number, N1 is a positive number, and N2, N3, N4 and N5 are negative numbers, with N1 > N2 > N3 > N4 > N5. The values ​​in the table above, such as +b, a, -b, -c, etc., represent the required correction value P, where a < b < c < d < e < f < g < h < i < j.

[0116] In other embodiments, other suitable tables or formulas are used to obtain the energy demand correction value for the air conditioning system 101.

[0117] In step 506, it is determined whether the required correction value P is greater than zero. If the required correction value P is greater than zero, proceed to step 228. In step 228, the loading process is performed (see...). Figure 6 ), then switch to Figure 2 and Figure 3 Step 234. If the required correction value P is not greater than zero, proceed to step 508.

[0118] In step 508, it is determined whether the required correction value P is equal to zero. If the required correction value P is equal to zero, proceed to step 230. In step 230, the hold process is performed (see...). Figure 7 ), then switch to Figure 2 and Figure 3 Step 234. If the required correction value P is not equal to zero, proceed to step 232. In step 232, perform the load reduction process (see...). Figure 8 ), then switch to Figure 2 and Figure 3 Step 234 in the process.

[0119] In other embodiments, other suitable methods are used to perform the decision-making process to implement loading, holding, or unloading processes.

[0120] Figure 6 It shows Figure 2 and Figure 3 The flowchart shown is a flowchart of loading process step 228 to illustrate the specific operation of one embodiment of the loading process.

[0121] like Figure 6 As shown, if in Figure 5 If the required correction value P is greater than zero in step 506, then proceed to step 602 and begin loading the operation of step 228.

[0122] In step 602, the operating compressor is identified, and then the process proceeds to step 604.

[0123] In step 604, load is allocated to the operating compressors to meet the required increase in load, and then the process proceeds to step 606. In one embodiment, load is allocated to the operating compressors to ensure they all operate at the same load rate to meet the required increase in load. In another embodiment, energy demand is allocated to the operating compressors to ensure they all operate at the same load rate to meet a positive zero energy demand correction value P. In yet another embodiment, the corrected energy demand of the air conditioning system 101 is obtained based on the sum of the current energy demand of the air conditioning system 101 and the positive zero energy demand correction value P, thereby allocating load to the compressors requiring load allocation to achieve the obtained corrected energy demand of the air conditioning system 101.

[0124] In step 606, it is determined whether any compressor load rate exceeds the maximum optimized load rate after the load allocation in step 604. If any compressor load rate exceeds the maximum optimized load rate after the load allocation in step 604, the process proceeds to step 608, where a compressor is selected from the available compressors, and then proceeds to step 610. In one embodiment, it is determined whether any compressor load rate exceeds the maximum optimized load rate after the energy demand allocation in step 604.

[0125] In step 610, load sharing is performed on the selected compressor and the running compressor to meet the required increase in load. Then, the process proceeds to step 606 to determine if any compressor's load rate exceeds the maximum optimized load rate after load sharing. Load sharing is performed in step 610 to ensure that the selected compressor and the running compressor reach the same load rate. In one embodiment, energy demand sharing is performed on the selected compressor and the running compressor to meet an energy demand correction value P greater than zero. Because the selected compressor and the running compressor reach the same load rate during load sharing, the load of the compressor being load-shared may change after this load sharing (e.g., energy demand sharing).

[0126] In step 606, if the load rate of the compressor-free unit exceeds the maximum optimized load rate after load distribution, proceed to step 612.

[0127] In step 612, the load is allocated to each compressor according to the allocation scheme, and then the process proceeds to step 614. In one embodiment, energy demand is allocated to each compressor according to the allocation scheme.

[0128] In step 614, it is determined whether any of the operating compressors has a limiting condition. If no operating compressor has a limiting condition, proceed to step 616. If one of the operating compressors has a limiting condition, proceed to step 618.

[0129] In step 616, each compressor is operated at its assigned load, and then proceeds to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 Step 234 in the process.

[0130] In step 618, the compressor with the limiting condition is kept running, and the other compressors are running at their assigned loads, then proceeds to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 Step 234. In one embodiment, the operating compressor may have limitations preventing it from increasing or decreasing its load (e.g., energy demand), but it can maintain its operating state. In this case, even if a load (e.g., energy demand) is allocated to the compressor with limitations in step 616, the compressor will simply maintain its operation without increasing or decreasing its load (e.g., energy demand) according to its own situation. This method of controlling the compressor simplifies the logic control of the compressor. This method of controlling the compressor will not cause the air conditioning system 101 to fail to meet its load demand, because in subsequent steps, the operating status of the air conditioning system 101 will continue to be monitored and acquired to determine whether to perform loading processing, maintaining processing, or unloading processing.

[0131] This application prioritizes increasing the load rate of the running compressor during the loading process, and only loads a new compressor after the load rate exceeds the maximum optimized load rate, thereby enabling the air conditioning system 101 to operate with high energy efficiency.

[0132] Figure 7 It shows Figure 2 and Figure 3 The flowchart shown is a flowchart of the holding process step 230 to illustrate the specific operation of one embodiment of the holding process.

[0133] like Figure 7 As shown, if in Figure 5 If the required correction value P is zero in step 508, then proceed to step 702 and continue the operation of step 230.

[0134] In step 702, the compressor that is running is identified, and then the process proceeds to step 704.

[0135] In step 704, it is determined whether any running compressor has accumulated an operating time Tn that reaches the threshold X (i.e., Tn ≥ X). If any running compressor has accumulated an operating time that reaches the threshold, proceed to step 706. If none of the running compressors have accumulated an operating time that reaches the threshold, proceed to step 707. Figure 2 and Figure 3 Step 234 in the process.

[0136] In step 706, a compressor is selected from the loadable compressors, and then the process proceeds to step 708. In one embodiment, selecting a compressor from the loadable compressors includes randomly selecting a compressor.

[0137] In step 708, the compressor whose cumulative running time has reached the threshold is replaced with the selected compressor, and then the process proceeds to step 710.

[0138] In step 710, load is allocated to the operating compressors (excluding those whose cumulative operating time has reached a threshold) and the selected compressor to maintain load demand, and then the process proceeds to step 712. Since the performance (e.g., maximum load, etc.) of the selected compressor and the compressor whose cumulative operating time has reached the threshold may differ, load reallocation is necessary to ensure that each compressor receiving the required load reaches the same load rate, thereby balancing wear on each compressor. After load reallocation, the load (e.g., energy demand) of each compressor may change. In one embodiment, energy demand allocation is performed on the operating compressors (excluding those whose cumulative operating time has reached the threshold) and the selected compressor to ensure that the compressors receiving the allocated energy demand reach the same load rate, thereby maintaining energy demand for the air conditioning system 101.

[0139] In step 712, the load is allocated to each compressor according to the allocation scheme, and then the process proceeds to step 714. In one embodiment, the energy demand is allocated to each compressor according to the allocation scheme.

[0140] In step 714, it is determined whether any of the operating compressors has a limiting condition. If no operating compressor has a limiting condition, proceed to step 716. If one of the operating compressors has a limiting condition, proceed to step 718.

[0141] In step 716, each compressor is operated at its assigned load, and compressors whose cumulative operating time has reached a threshold are unloaded, then the process proceeds to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 Step 234 in the process.

[0142] In step 718, the compressor with the limiting condition is kept running, while the other compressors are run at their assigned loads. The compressor whose cumulative running time has reached the threshold is unloaded, and then the process proceeds to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 Step 234. In one embodiment, the operating compressor may have limitations preventing it from increasing or decreasing its load (e.g., energy demand), but it can maintain its operating state. In this case, even if a load (e.g., energy demand) is allocated to the compressor with limitations in step 716, the compressor will simply maintain its operation without increasing or decreasing its load (e.g., energy demand) according to its own situation. This method of controlling the compressor simplifies the logical control of the compressor. This method of controlling the compressor will not cause the air conditioning system 101 to fail to meet its load demand, because in subsequent steps, the operating status of the air conditioning system 101 will continue to be monitored and acquired to determine whether to perform loading processing, maintaining processing, or unloading processing.

[0143] In this application, the compressors with a cumulative operating threshold X are rotated during the holding phase. For example, the compressors with a cumulative operating threshold X are replaced with other compressors, thereby making the wear of the N compressors more even.

[0144] Figure 8 It shows Figure 2 and Figure 3 The flowchart shown is a flowchart of the unloading process step 232 to illustrate the specific operation of one embodiment of the unloading process.

[0145] like Figure 8 As shown, if in Figure 5 If the required correction value P is not equal to zero in step 508, then proceed to step 802 and begin the unloading operation of step 232.

[0146] In step 802, the compressor that is running is identified, and then the process proceeds to step 804.

[0147] In step 804, load distribution is performed on the operating compressors to meet the required load reduction, and then the process proceeds to step 806. In one embodiment, load distribution is performed on the operating compressors to bring them to the same load rate to meet the required load reduction. In another embodiment, energy demand distribution is performed on the operating compressors to bring them to the same load rate to meet a less-than-zero energy demand correction value P. In yet another embodiment, the corrected energy demand of the air conditioning system 101 is obtained based on the sum of the current energy demand of the air conditioning system 101 and the less-than-zero energy demand correction value P, thereby allowing load distribution on the compressors requiring load allocation to achieve the obtained corrected energy demand of the air conditioning system 101.

[0148] In step 806, it is determined whether any compressor load rate exceeds the minimum optimized load rate after the load allocation in step 804. If any compressor load rate exceeds the minimum optimized load rate after the load allocation in step 804, the process proceeds to step 808, where a compressor is selected from the currently running compressors, and then proceeds to step 810. In one embodiment, it is determined whether any compressor load rate exceeds the minimum optimized load rate after the energy demand allocation in step 804.

[0149] In step 810, load allocation is performed on the operating compressors other than the selected compressor to meet the required load reduction, and then the process proceeds to step 806 to determine whether any compressor load rate exceeds the minimum optimized load rate after load allocation. Since the selected compressor is to be unloaded, load allocation is performed on the operating compressors other than the selected compressor, taking into account the load reduction of the selected unloaded compressor. In one embodiment, energy demand allocation is performed on the operating compressors other than the selected compressor to meet a less than zero energy demand correction value P. The corrected energy demand of the air conditioning system 101 is obtained based on the sum of the current energy demand of the air conditioning system 101 and the less than zero energy demand correction value P, thereby performing load allocation on the compressors to be allocated load to achieve the obtained corrected energy demand of the air conditioning system 101. Since the selected compressor is to be unloaded, the energy demand reduction of the selected compressor is added to the operating compressors other than the selected compressor. In other words, zero energy demand is allocated to the selected compressor, and energy demand is allocated to the other operating compressors to achieve the corrected energy demand of the air conditioning system 101. Load distribution is performed on the other operating compressors to ensure that the compressors with allocated loads reach the same load rate, thereby balancing compressor wear.

[0150] In step 806, if the load rate of the compressor-free unit exceeds the minimum optimized load rate after load distribution, proceed to step 812.

[0151] In step 812, the load is allocated to each compressor according to the allocation scheme, and then proceeds to step 814.

[0152] In step 814, it is determined whether any of the operating compressors has a limiting condition. If no operating compressor has a limiting condition, proceed to step 816. If one of the operating compressors has a limiting condition, proceed to step 818.

[0153] In step 816, each compressor is operated at its assigned load, and the selected compressor is unloaded, then proceeds to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 Step 234 in the process.

[0154] In step 818, the compressor with the limiting condition is kept running, the other compressors are run at their assigned loads, and the selected compressor is unloaded, then proceeds to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 Step 234. In one embodiment, the operating compressor may have limitations preventing it from increasing or decreasing its load (e.g., energy demand), but it can maintain its operating state. In this case, even if a load (e.g., energy demand) is allocated to the compressor with limitations in step 816, the compressor will simply maintain its operation without increasing or decreasing its load (e.g., energy demand) according to its own situation. This method of controlling the compressor simplifies the logical control of the compressor. This method of controlling the compressor will not cause the air conditioning system 101 to fail to meet its load demand, because in subsequent steps, the operating status of the air conditioning system 101 will continue to be monitored and acquired to determine whether to perform loading processing, maintaining processing, or unloading processing.

[0155] This application prioritizes reducing the load rate of the running compressor during load reduction processing, and then unloads the compressor after the load rate exceeds the minimum optimized load rate, thereby ensuring the energy efficiency of the air conditioning system 101 and enabling the air conditioning system 101 to operate within a better energy efficiency range.

[0156] In the initial loading process, loading process, holding process and unloading process, this application performs load distribution on the compressors to be assigned loads so that the compressors assigned loads reach the same load rate, and can further balance the wear of the compressors in the process of controlling the N compressors of the air conditioning system 101.

[0157] Figure 9 It shows Figures 4A-4B and Figures 6-8The flowchart shown illustrates the compressor selection step in one embodiment of the process.

[0158] like Figure 9 As shown, at step 900, the operation of selecting the compressor begins (see steps 404, 412, 608, 706, 808), and then proceeds to step 902. This selection involves randomly selecting a compressor.

[0159] In step 902, a random number between 0 and 1 is generated for each of the selectable compressors according to a random algorithm, and then the process proceeds to step 904.

[0160] In step 904, the threshold F(n) for each compressor is calculated based on the following formula:

[0161]

[0162] Where n is the compressor number, P is the probability of each compressor being selected, r is the number of times a compressor will be selected from the available compressors during the operation of the air conditioning system, mod(1 / P) represents the remainder obtained by rounding down the quotient of 1 / P, and G is the set of compressors that can be selected in the current selection. Then proceed to step 906. The probability P of each compressor being selected is 1 / (the total number of compressors that can be selected in the current selection). In the initial (first) selection, r is 1. After a compressor is selected (see the execution of step 908), when the next compressor selection is performed, r is 2. And so on, the value of r can be obtained.

[0163] In step 906, it is determined whether only one compressor's random number is less than the threshold F(n). If only one compressor's random number is less than the threshold F(n), proceed to step 908. If not only one compressor's random number is less than the threshold F(n), proceed to step 902, and repeat steps 902, 904, and 906 for the random selection. When r remains unchanged, step 904 can be omitted because the threshold F(n) for each compressor calculated in step 904 remains unchanged.

[0164] In step 908, the compressor is selected, that is, only the random number of the compressor is less than the threshold F(n), and then proceed to step 910.

[0165] In step 910, the operation of selecting the compressor is completed.

[0166] In steps 404 and 412 of the initial loading process, in step 608 of the loading process, in step 706 of the holding process, and in step 808 of the unloading process, r is counted independently. When the air conditioning system 101 is stopped and then restarted, r is counted again.

[0167] The method for randomly selecting compressors described in this application enables more uniform wear of the compressor compared to other random selection methods.

[0168] Figure 10 It shows that according to Figure 1 The block diagram of the control system is shown. Figure 10 As shown, the control system 103 includes a bus 1001, a processor 1002, a memory 1003, an input interface 1004, and an output interface 1005. The processor 1002, memory 1003, input interface 1004, and output interface 1005 are connected to the bus 1001. The processor 1002 can read programs (or instructions) from the memory 1003 and execute them to perform data processing and control functions on various components of the air conditioning system 101; the processor 1002 can also write data or programs (or instructions) into the memory 1003. The memory 1003 can store programs (instructions) or data. By executing the instructions in the memory 1003, the processor 1002 can control the memory 1003, the input interface 1004, and the output interface 1005.

[0169] Input interface 1004 is configured to receive the outdoor unit's horsepower set by the user via connection line 133, the indoor temperature set by the user via connection line 132, and the actual indoor temperature from temperature detection device 108 via connection line 116. Input interface 1004 is also configured to receive the cumulative running time, preheating time, and restart interval from timing device 109 via connection lines 117, 118, and 119, respectively; receive a fault signal from fault detection device 110 via connection line 120; and receive a compressor operating status signal from operating status detection device 111 via connection line 130.

[0170] The input interface 1004 is also configured to convert the received outdoor unit's horsepower, set indoor temperature, actual indoor temperature, cumulative running time, preheating time, restart interval time, fault signal, and compressor operating status signal into a signal recognizable by the processor 1002, and output the signal to the processor 1002.

[0171] Processor 1002 is configured to receive a program (or instruction) from memory 1003 and execute the program (or instruction). During the initial loading process, processor 1002 is configured to receive the outdoor unit's horsepower, the set indoor temperature, and the actual indoor temperature, execute the program (or instruction) to obtain the initial energy demand and allocate the energy demand, and output control signals for each compressor to output interface 1005. Output interface 1005 is configured to receive the control signals for each compressor from processor 1002, convert the control signals into output signals suitable for each compressor, and send the output signals to the compressors via connection line 131.

[0172] When performing the judgment process, the processor 1002 is configured to receive the previously set indoor temperature, the actual indoor temperature, and the current set indoor temperature and the actual indoor temperature, execute the program (or instruction) to obtain the required correction value and perform the judgment process.

[0173] During loading, holding, and unloading processes, processor 1002 is configured to receive accumulated running time, preheating time, restart interval time, fault signals, and compressor operating status signals, execute the program (or instructions) to allocate energy demand, and output control signals for each compressor to output interface 1005. Output interface 1005 is configured to receive control signals from processor 1002, convert the control signals into output signals suitable for each compressor, and send the output signals to the compressors via connection line 131.

[0174] Although this application has been described with reference to examples of the embodiments outlined above, various alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and / or substantially equivalents, whether known or currently or soon to be foreseen, will likely be apparent to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, the technical effects and / or technical problems described herein are exemplary and not limiting; therefore, the disclosures herein may be used to solve other technical problems and have other technical effects and / or can solve other technical problems. Thus, the examples of embodiments of this application as set forth above are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of this application. Therefore, this application is intended to include all known or previously developed alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and / or substantially equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system, the air conditioning system comprising multiple compressors, characterized in that, The method controls the multiple compressors to operate in several operating cycles, and the method for controlling the multiple compressors to operate in one of the several operating cycles includes: (A) Set an operating cycle for the multiple compressors; (B) Set a threshold X for the operating time of the multiple compressors; (C) During the said operating cycle, all of the multiple compressors shall be loaded and run at least once, and the following steps shall be performed in step (C): Based on the actual operating conditions of the air conditioning system, the following steps are performed: (1) If it is necessary to increase the load of the air conditioning system, the load of the multiple compressors shall be allocated to meet the required increase in load, and the multiple compressors shall be operated at the allocated load; (2) If it is necessary to reduce the load on the air conditioning system, the load of the multiple compressors shall be distributed to meet the required load reduction, and the multiple compressors shall operate at the distributed load; and (3) If the load of the air conditioning system is met, the compressor that is in operation shall be kept running; (D) If all of the multiple compressors are loaded and accumulate the time of the threshold X within the one operating cycle, the one operating cycle ends and the next operating cycle begins. The next running cycle is the running cycle that is adjacent to and follows the first running cycle among the plurality of running cycles. In step (C), the following steps are also performed: If, during one of the multiple compressors, a compressor is loaded and accumulates the time for the threshold X, then the compressor that has accumulated the time for the threshold X is unloaded and configured not to be loaded and run again during the one operating cycle, but to be loaded and run in the next operating cycle.

2. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The following steps are also performed in step (C): If, within one operating cycle, all of the compressors that are not currently running have been loaded and have accumulated the time required to run the threshold X, then the operating cycle is interrupted and the next operating cycle begins.

3. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The following steps are also performed in step (C): If there is a loadable compressor in the previous operating cycle, the operating parameters of the previous operating cycle are obtained and the multiple compressors are controlled to run in the previous operating cycle; otherwise, the multiple compressors are controlled to continue running in the operating cycle, and the cumulative operating time of the loadable compressor is less than the threshold X. as well as If all the compressors that are not currently running among the multiple compressors have been loaded and have accumulated the time of the threshold X during the first running cycle, then the first running cycle is interrupted, and the next running cycle is started, and the multiple compressors are controlled to run in the next running cycle; otherwise, the multiple compressors are controlled to continue running in the first running cycle. The preceding running cycle is the running cycle that precedes the first running cycle among the plurality of running cycles.

4. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step (3) of step (C), if the compressor in operation is kept running to meet the load of the air conditioning system, and the cumulative running time of a compressor reaches the threshold X of the running time, then the following steps are performed: (3-1) Select a compressor from the loadable compressors of the plurality of compressors, wherein the cumulative running time of the loadable compressor is less than the threshold X; as well as (3-2) Replace the compressor whose cumulative operating time has reached the threshold X with the selected compressor to maintain the load of the air conditioning system.

5. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to claim 4, characterized in that, In step (3-2), the following steps are performed: Replace the compressor whose cumulative operating time has reached the threshold X with the selected compressor; After the replacement, the load is distributed among the operating compressors (excluding the compressor whose cumulative running time has reached the threshold X) and the selected compressor to maintain the load of the air conditioning system. According to the load allocation scheme, the load is allocated to the operating compressors and the selected compressors, excluding the compressors whose cumulative running time has reached the threshold X. as well as The operating compressors, except those whose cumulative operating time has reached the threshold X, and the selected compressor are operated at their assigned loads, and the compressors whose cumulative operating time has reached the threshold X are unloaded, thereby maintaining the load of the air conditioning system.

6. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step (1), if it is necessary to increase the load on the air conditioning system, the operating compressors among the multiple compressors are load-allocated to meet the required increase in load. After the load allocation, the following steps are performed: (1-1) If the load rate of the compressor without compressor exceeds the maximum optimized load rate after allocation, the load is allocated to the running compressor according to the load allocation scheme, and the running compressor is made to operate at the allocated load; as well as (1-2) If the load rate of a compressor exceeds the maximum optimized load rate after allocation, a compressor is selected from the loadable compressors of the plurality of compressors so that after the load allocation of the running compressor and the selected compressor according to the required increase in load, the load rate of no compressor exceeds the maximum optimized load rate, thereby allocating the load to the running compressor and the selected compressor according to the load allocation scheme, and making the running compressor and the selected compressor operate at the allocated load, and the cumulative operating time of the loadable compressor is less than the threshold X; The load rate of the compressor is the ratio of the actual load to the maximum load of the compressor. as well as The maximum optimized load rate is the maximum load rate when the compressor is within the optimized load rate range.

7. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step (2), if it is necessary to reduce the load on the air conditioning system, the load of the operating compressors among the multiple compressors is distributed to meet the required load reduction. After the load distribution, the following steps are performed: (2-1) If the load rate of the compressor without compressor exceeds the minimum optimized load rate after allocation, the load is allocated to the running compressor according to the load allocation scheme, and the running compressor is made to operate at the allocated load; as well as (2-2) If the load rate of a compressor exceeds the minimum optimized load rate after allocation, a compressor is selected from the operating compressors so that after load allocation to the operating compressors other than the selected compressor according to the required load reduction, the load rate of no compressor exceeds the minimum optimized load rate. Thus, the load is allocated to the operating compressors other than the selected compressor according to the load allocation scheme, so that the operating compressors other than the selected compressor operate at the allocated load, and the selected compressor is unloaded. The load rate of the compressor is the ratio of the actual load to the maximum load of the compressor. as well as The minimum optimized load rate is the minimum load rate when the compressor is within the optimized load rate range.

8. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to claim 4, characterized in that: The step of selecting a compressor includes randomly selecting one compressor from the available compressors. In step (3-1), the loadable compressor of the plurality of compressors is the selectable compressor.

9. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to claim 6, characterized in that: The step of selecting a compressor includes randomly selecting one compressor from the available compressors. In step (1-2), the loadable compressor of the plurality of compressors is the selectable compressor.

10. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to claim 7, characterized in that: The step of selecting a compressor includes randomly selecting one compressor from the available compressors. In step (2-2), the compressor in operation is the selectable compressor.

11. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to any one of claims 8-10, characterized in that, The step of randomly selecting a compressor from the selectable compressors includes: (I) Generate a random number R between 0 and 1 for each of the selectable compressors; (II) Calculate the threshold F(n) for each compressor based on the following formula. ， in, n is the compressor's serial number. P is the probability that each compressor is selected, and the probability is 1 / (the total number of compressors that can be selected in the current selection). r represents the number of times a compressor will be selected from the selectable compressors during the operation of the air conditioning system. mod(1 / P) represents the remainder obtained when the quotient of 1 / P is rounded down. G is the set of compressors that can be selected in the current selection; (III) Compare the random number R for each compressor with the threshold F(n); and (IV) When only one compressor has a random number less than the threshold F(n), select that compressor; otherwise, repeat steps (I), (III), and (IV). In each step of selecting the compressor, r is counted independently; and When the air conditioning system is stopped and then restarted, r is counted again.

12. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to any one of claims 5-7, characterized in that: The load allocation step includes performing load allocation so that the compressors assigned loads have the same load rate.

13. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to any one of claims 5-7, characterized in that, In steps (1), (2), and (3), after allocating the load to the compressor according to the load allocation scheme, the following steps are also performed: If one of the operating compressors that has been assigned a load has a limitation that prevents it from changing its load, then the compressor with the limitation is kept in its operating state, and the other compressors assigned a load are allowed to operate at their assigned loads.

14. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method includes: When the air conditioning system is stopped and then restarted, the stored operating parameters of the operating cycle in which the air conditioning system was required to stop are obtained, and the multiple compressors are controlled to continue operating in the operating cycle in which the air conditioning system was required to stop.

15. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that: If one of the multiple compressors fails and stops working, then for the compressors other than the one that failed, steps (A)-(D) are performed.

16. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step (C), the following steps are performed: The load demand of the air conditioning system is obtained based on the temperature difference between the actual indoor temperature and the set indoor temperature, as well as the rate of change of the actual indoor temperature difference; and Perform step (1), step (2), or step (3) in step (C) according to the obtained load demand of the air conditioning system; The air conditioning system is used to provide cooling and / or heating to the air conditioning control unit; and The load requirements of the air conditioning system include the need to increase the load of the air conditioning system, the need to reduce the load of the air conditioning system, and meeting the load requirements of the air conditioning system.

17. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to claim 16, characterized in that, In step (C), the following steps are performed: The previous actual indoor temperature of the air conditioning system is detected and the previous set indoor temperature is obtained at a previous moment, and the current actual indoor temperature of the air conditioning system is detected and the current set indoor temperature is obtained at a current moment, wherein time t has elapsed from the previous moment to the current moment; The previous indoor temperature difference is obtained based on the difference between the previously detected actual indoor temperature and the previously obtained set indoor temperature. The current indoor temperature difference is obtained based on the difference between the currently detected actual indoor temperature and the currently obtained set indoor temperature. The current temperature difference change rate is obtained by dividing the difference between the current indoor temperature difference and the previous indoor temperature difference by the time t. The load demand of the air conditioning system is obtained based on the current indoor temperature difference and the current temperature difference change rate. as well as Perform step (1), step (2), or step (3) in step (C) according to the obtained load demand of the air conditioning system.

18. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step (C), the following steps are performed prior to step (1): If the air conditioning system is initially started, one or more compressors are selected from the plurality of compressors, the selected compressors are load-allocated to meet the initial load requirements of the air conditioning system, and the selected compressors are operated at the allocated load.

19. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to claim 18, characterized in that... : The initial load requirement is obtained based on the actual indoor temperature and the set indoor temperature of the air conditioning control unit; The air conditioning system is used to provide cooling and / or heating to the air conditioning control unit.

20. The method for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system according to any one of claims 3-6, characterized in that, The loadable compressor is determined based on at least the following: (a) The compressor's preheating time meets the requirements; (b) The compressor is not currently running; (c) The compressor restart interval has been reached; as well as (d) The compressor is fault-free.

21. An air conditioning control system, characterized in that, The air conditioning control system includes: A control system (103) comprising a processor (802) and a memory (803), the control system (103) being configured to perform the method of any one of claims 1-20 to control the operation of the compressor (107.1, 107.2...107.N) in the air conditioning system (101).

22. A system (100) for controlling a compressor in an air conditioning system, characterized in that, The system (100) includes: A detection system (102) connected to an air conditioning system (101), the detection system (102) being configured to detect the operating status of the air conditioning system (101); and A control system (103) is connected to the detection system (102), the control system (103) includes a processor (802) and a memory (803), the control system (103) is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 1-20 to control the operation of the compressor (107.1, 107.2...107.N) in the air conditioning system (101) based on the operating status of the air conditioning system (101) detected by the detection system (102) and the control input.

23. The system (100) according to claim 22, characterized in that, The detection system (102) includes: Temperature detection device (108), the temperature detection device (108) is configured to detect the indoor temperature of the air conditioning control unit; A timing device (109) is configured to detect at least one of the cumulative running time, preheating time and restart interval of the plurality of compressors (107.1, 107.2...107.N); A fault detection device (110) configured to detect whether the plurality of compressors (107.1, 107.2...107.N) have malfunctioned; and Operating status detection device (111), which is configured to detect the operating status of the plurality of compressors (107.1, 107.2……107.N).

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