Methods, apparatus and air conditioners for controlling air conditioning

By introducing a multi-air supply structure and a rotatable air duct into the indoor unit of a vertical air conditioner, combined with temperature sensors and air supply mode control, the problem of fixed airflow uniformity is solved, and dynamic adjustment of the air conditioner's output is achieved, thus improving user comfort.

CN116265821BActive Publication Date: 2026-05-26QINGDAO HAIER SMART TECH R & D CO LTD
View PDF 3 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
QINGDAO HAIER SMART TECH R & D CO LTD
Filing Date
2021-12-17
Publication Date
2026-05-26

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The air distribution technology of existing vertical air conditioner indoor units has a fixed degree of air distribution, which cannot meet the diverse needs of users, resulting in users feeling uncomfortable due to excessive cold or heat.

Method used

The design employs a multi-air supply structure and a rotatable air duct, combined with temperature sensors and air supply mode control, to achieve varying degrees of uniform airflow.

Benefits of technology

By dynamically adjusting the air supply structure and the position of the air duct, the air conditioner can deliver cool but not cold, and hot but not dry air, thereby improving user comfort.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure CN116265821B_ABST
    Figure CN116265821B_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

This application relates to the field of smart home appliance technology, and discloses a method for controlling an air conditioner. The air conditioner includes: a housing; and further includes: a first air supply structure and a second air supply structure disposed within the housing; both the first and second air supply structures can introduce indoor air and can deliver natural wind or heat-exchanged wind to the room under different operating states; the method includes: determining a target air supply demand based on indoor information; and controlling the operating states of the first and second air supply structures according to the target air supply demand to achieve different degrees of uniform airflow. The target air supply demand is determined based on indoor information. Then, based on the target air supply demand, the operating states of the first and second air supply structures are controlled to achieve different degrees of uniform airflow, maximizing the satisfaction of user needs. This ensures that the overall airflow from the air conditioner is cool but not cold, and hot but not dry, improving user comfort. This application also discloses a device and an air conditioner for controlling an air conditioner.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of smart home appliance technology, such as a method, apparatus and air conditioner for controlling an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] Air conditioners have become common household appliances in daily life and work. Conventional air conditioners blow out air that has undergone heat exchange. This air is often too cold or too hot, causing discomfort to users. To regulate indoor temperature without making users feel excessively cold or hot, some smart air conditioners employ airflow equalization technology. This technology involves introducing indoor airflow and mixing it with the heat-exchanged airflow before the air conditioner blows it out, thus ensuring that the final temperature of the air blown out by the air conditioner is neither too cold nor too hot.

[0003] An existing vertical air conditioner indoor unit includes: a housing, with a main air outlet at the front end of the housing, a first heat exchange air inlet and a second heat exchange air inlet on each side of the housing, and a non-heat exchange air inlet at the rear end of the housing; the vertical air conditioner indoor unit further includes: a first air duct, which is a heat exchange airflow channel, including a first air inlet and a first air outlet, the first air inlet being connected to the first heat exchange air inlet; and a second air duct, which is also a heat exchange airflow channel, the first air duct including a second air inlet and a second air outlet, the second air inlet being connected to the second heat exchange air inlet. The system includes: a third air duct, which is a non-heat exchange airflow channel located between the first and second air ducts; a third air inlet and a third air outlet, the third air inlet being connected to the non-heat exchange air inlet and the third air outlet being connected to the main air outlet; both the first and second air outlets being connected to the third air duct and located within the third air duct, and both the first and second air outlets being inclined towards the third air outlet; and a cross-flow fan installed in both the first and second air ducts.

[0004] When the air conditioner is turned on, the heat exchange airflow from the first and second air ducts drives the air in the third air duct forward, creating negative pressure within the third air duct. Under this negative pressure, the third air duct draws in non-heat exchange airflow through the non-heat exchange air inlet of the casing, thus preventing excessively cold or hot airflow from blowing directly on the body. However, the uniformity of airflow in this method is fixed; that is, it can only mix the heat exchange airflow from the first and second air ducts with the non-heat exchange airflow from the third air duct. The uniformity of airflow is limited and cannot adequately meet the needs of users. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed embodiments, a brief summary is given below. This summary is not intended as a general commentary, nor is it intended to identify key / important components or describe the scope of protection of these embodiments, but rather as a prelude to the detailed description that follows.

[0006] This disclosure provides a method, apparatus, and air conditioner for controlling an air conditioner to improve the uniformity of airflow.

[0007] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes: a housing; and further includes: a first air supply structure and a second air supply structure disposed within the housing; both the first air supply structure and the second air supply structure are capable of introducing indoor air and delivering natural wind or heat-exchanged wind to the room under different operating conditions; the method includes: determining a target air supply demand based on indoor information; and controlling the operating state of the first air supply structure and the second air supply structure according to the target air supply demand to achieve different degrees of uniform airflow.

[0008] In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a processor and a memory storing program instructions, the processor being configured to execute the aforementioned method for controlling an air conditioner when the program instructions are executed.

[0009] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes: a housing; and further includes: a first air supply structure and a second air supply structure, both disposed within the housing; the first air supply structure includes: a first air duct; a first fan and a first heat exchanger, both disposed within the first air duct; the second air supply structure includes: a second air duct; a second fan and a second heat exchanger, both disposed within the second air duct; a rotatable air duct disposed on the side of the housing, the side wall of the air duct having an air outlet, and the first air duct being connected to the room through the air outlet of the air duct; and the aforementioned device for controlling the air conditioner; wherein both the first air supply structure and the second air supply structure are capable of introducing indoor air and are capable of delivering natural wind or heat-exchanged wind to the room under different operating conditions.

[0010] The method, apparatus, and air conditioner for controlling an air conditioner provided in this disclosure can achieve the following technical effects:

[0011] The target air supply demand is determined based on indoor information. Then, based on this demand, the operation of the first and second air supply structures is controlled to achieve varying degrees of uniform airflow, maximizing user satisfaction. This ensures the overall airflow from the air conditioner is cool without being cold, and warm without being dry, improving user comfort.

[0012] The above general description and the description below are exemplary and illustrative only and are not intended to limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0013] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. These illustrations and drawings do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements having the same reference numerals in the drawings are shown as similar elements. The drawings are not to be scaled. And wherein:

[0014] Figure 1 This is a front view of the air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0015] Figure 2 This is provided by the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 1 Sectional view along axis AA;

[0016] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure from one angle;

[0017] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure from another angle;

[0018] Figure 5-1 This is a schematic diagram of the air conditioner provided in this embodiment of the disclosure, in which the splitter plate is deflected to the right.

[0019] Figure 5-2 This is a schematic diagram of the air conditioner provided in this embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the splitter plate is deflected to the left.

[0020] Figure 6 This is provided by the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 1 BB-direction sectional view;

[0021] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner provided in this embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the air duct is not rotating;

[0022] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the rotation of the air duct in an air conditioner provided in this embodiment of the disclosure;

[0023] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a method for controlling an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0024] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of another method for controlling an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0025] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the air conditioner operation converged long-distance direct blowing mode provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0026] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the wide-angle global mode of air conditioning operation provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0027] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the air conditioning operation wall-mounted surround mode provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0028] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of another method for controlling an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0029] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of another method for controlling an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0030] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of a device for controlling an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0031] Figure label:

[0032] 10. Housing; 11. First air inlet of the air conditioner; 12. First air outlet of the air conditioner; 13. Fresh air inlet; 14. Second air inlet of the air conditioner; 15. Second air outlet of the air conditioner; 20. First air supply structure; 21. First air duct; 22. First fan; 221. Volute; 222. Centrifugal fan; 23. First heat exchanger; 24. Diverter plate; 30. Second air supply structure; 31. Second air duct; 32. Second fan; 33. Second heat exchanger; 40. Third air supply structure; 41. Third air duct; 42. Baffle; 50. Air duct. Detailed Implementation

[0033] To provide a more detailed understanding of the features and technical content of the embodiments of this disclosure, the implementation of the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this disclosure. In the following technical description, for ease of explanation, several details are used to provide a full understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, one or more embodiments may still be implemented without these details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices may be simplified in their depiction to simplify the drawings.

[0034] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this disclosure are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate for the embodiments of this disclosure described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0035] Unless otherwise stated, the term "multiple" means two or more.

[0036] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the character " / " indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B means: A or B.

[0037] The term "and / or" describes an association between objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B means: A or B, or A and B.

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

[0039] This disclosure provides an air conditioner, specifically a floor-standing air conditioner. (In conjunction with...) Figures 1 to 6 As shown, the indoor unit of the air conditioner includes: a housing 10, and an internal air supply structure disposed inside the air conditioner. The internal air supply structure may include: a first air supply structure 20 and a second air supply structure 30. A duct 50 is disposed on the side of the housing 10, and the duct 50 is connected to the first air supply structure 20 and is capable of receiving the airflow delivered by the first air supply structure 20. A third air supply structure 40 is also disposed on the side of the housing 10.

[0040] The first air supply structure 20 is located below the second air supply structure 30. Combined with... Figure 2 As shown, the first air supply structure 20 includes: a first air duct 21, a first fan 22, and a first heat exchanger 23. The first air duct 21 is located in the lower half of the housing 10. The first fan 22 and the first heat exchanger 23 are both disposed within the first air duct 21. A first air inlet 11 for the air conditioner is provided on the housing 10, corresponding to the position of the first fan 22. Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, one end of the air duct 50 is provided with an air inlet, which is connected to the outlet of the first air duct 21. An air outlet is provided on the side wall of the air duct 50, which is connected to the indoor environment. The air outlet of the air duct 50 is the first air outlet 12 of the air conditioner. After the first air supply structure 20 is opened, indoor air is drawn into the first air duct 21 through the first air inlet 11. Heat exchange or non-heat exchange of the air can be selected according to actual needs. Then, the heat-exchanged airflow or unexchanged natural airflow is delivered to the air duct 50. The air duct 50 then delivers the heat-exchanged air or natural air to the room through its air outlet. Optionally, there are two air ducts 50, respectively located on both sides of the housing 10, and both air ducts 50 are connected to the first air duct 21. The first air duct 21 delivers airflow to both air ducts 50. Optionally, combined with... Figure 5-1 and Figure 5-2As shown, the first fan 22 includes a volute 221 and a centrifugal fan 222. The centrifugal fan 222 is disposed inside the volute 221. A deflectable baffle 24 is disposed at the middle position of the air outlet of the volute 221 to divide the air outlet of the first fan 22 into two air outlet areas of similar size. The two air outlet areas correspond one-to-one with the two air ducts 50; when the baffle 24 does not deflect, the baffle 24 is in a vertical state, which is also the original state of the baffle 24. When the baffle 24 is in its original state, the air volume of the two air outlet areas is the same, so the air volume delivered by the first air duct 21 to the two air ducts 50 is the same. When the baffle 24 deflects to one side, for example, as Figure 5-1 As shown, when the splitter plate 24 deflects to the right, the air outlet area on the right side is blocked. Therefore, the airflow in the right-side air duct 50 corresponding to the right-side air outlet area will also decrease. At the same time, the air outlet area on the left side is less blocked, so the airflow in the left-side air duct 50 corresponding to the left-side air outlet area will also increase. The first heat exchanger 23 is a V-shaped heat exchanger, located above the first fan 22.

[0041] The air duct 50 is rotatably connected to the housing 10. When the air duct 50 is rotated to different positions, the air outlet of the air duct 50 faces different directions.

[0042] Optionally, combined Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the housing 10 is also provided with a fresh air inlet 13 for introducing outdoor fresh air. Optionally, the fresh air inlet 13 is connected to the first air duct 21.

[0043] Combination Figure 6 As shown, the second air supply structure 30 includes a second air duct 31, a second fan 32, and a second heat exchanger 33. The second air duct 31 is located in the upper half of the housing 10. The second fan 32 and the second heat exchanger 33 are both disposed within the second air duct 31. On the housing 10, corresponding to both ends of the second air duct 31, a second air inlet 14 and a second air outlet 15 of an air conditioner are respectively provided. When the second air supply structure 30 is turned on, indoor air is drawn into the second air duct 31 through the second air inlet 14 of the air conditioner. Heat exchange or non-heat exchange of the air can be selected according to actual needs. Then, the heat-exchanged airflow or unexchanged natural airflow is delivered to the outside of the air conditioner through the second air outlet 15 of the air conditioner. Optionally, the second air duct 31 extends laterally through the housing 10. The second fan 32 is a cross-flow fan. Along the direction from the second air inlet 14 to the second air outlet 15 of the air conditioner, the second heat exchanger 33 and the second fan 32 are sequentially disposed within the second air duct 31. Since the internal air supply structure includes a first air supply structure 20 and a second air supply structure 30, the fans of the internal air supply structure include a first fan 22 and a second fan 32, and the heat exchangers of the internal air supply structure include a first heat exchanger 23 and a second heat exchanger 33.

[0044] A third air supply structure 40 is also provided on the side of the housing 10. The third air supply structure 40 includes a third air duct 41. The inlet and outlet of the third air duct 41 are both connected to the indoor environment. The inlet of the third air duct 41 is the third air inlet of the air conditioner. The outlet of the third air duct 41 is the third air outlet of the air conditioner. There may be one or two third air supply structures 40. When there is one third air supply structure 40, it is located on one side of any one of the air ducts 50. When there are two third air supply structures 40, they are located on both sides of the housing 10. The air duct 50 is located on one side of the third air supply structure 40 located on the same side as it. The third air outlet of the air conditioner is located between the second air outlet 15 of the air conditioner and the air duct 50. Optionally, the third air supply structure 40 may also include a baffle 42 with an arc-shaped surface. The gap between the inner wall of the baffle 42 and the outer wall of the air duct 50 forms the third air duct 41. Figure 6 As shown, the cross-section of the ventilation duct 50 is spindle-shaped. Thus, combined with... Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the distance d between the outer wall of the air duct 50 and the inner wall of the third air duct 41 varies when the air duct 50 rotates to different positions. d has a maximum value of d0. max and minimum value d min .

[0045] When the first fan 22 and / or the second fan 32 are running, air will be discharged from the first air outlet 12 and / or the second air outlet 15 of the air conditioner. Under the negative pressure generated by the air discharged from the first air outlet 12 and / or the second air outlet 15, indoor air enters through the inlet of the third air duct 41 and then flows out through the outlet of the third air duct 41. This air then mixes with the air discharged from the first air outlet 12 and / or the second air outlet 15, thereby regulating the temperature of the air discharged from the first air outlet 12 and / or the second air outlet 15, ensuring that the overall temperature of the air discharged from the air conditioner is neither too cold nor too hot.

[0046] After the air conditioner is turned on, the opening and closing of the first fan 22, the first heat exchanger 23, the second fan 32 and the second heat exchanger 33 can be controlled according to actual needs. The rotation position of the air duct 50 can also be controlled to achieve different degrees of uniform airflow.

[0047] Combination Figure 9 As shown in the figure, this disclosure provides a method for controlling an air conditioner, including:

[0048] S91, the air conditioner obtains the current indoor temperature.

[0049] S92, the air conditioner determines the target on / off state of the first air supply structure and the second air supply structure based on the indoor temperature.

[0050] S93, the air conditioning controls the first and second air supply structures to operate according to their corresponding target on / off states.

[0051] The air conditioner obtains the current indoor temperature through its own temperature sensor or a temperature sensor installed indoors. Based on the current indoor temperature, it determines the target on / off states of the first and second air supply structures. As mentioned earlier, the first air supply structure includes a first fan and a first heat exchanger; therefore, the on / off states of the first air supply structure include the on / off states of the first fan and the first heat exchanger. The second air supply structure includes a second fan and a second heat exchanger; therefore, the on / off states of the second air supply structure include the on / off states of the second fan and the second heat exchanger. Therefore, determining the target on / off states of the first and second air supply structures specifically involves determining the on / off states of the first fan, the first heat exchanger, the second fan, and the second heat exchanger. After determining the target states, the first fan, the first heat exchanger, the second fan, and the second heat exchanger are controlled to operate according to the corresponding target on / off states, thereby achieving varying degrees of uniform airflow.

[0052] The different on / off states of the first fan, the first heat exchanger, the second fan, and the second heat exchanger produce uniform airflow patterns, as shown in Table 1. In Table 1, for the fans and heat exchangers, "●" indicates on and "○" indicates off; for uniform airflow, "●" indicates presence and "○" indicates absence.

[0053]

[0054]

[0055] Table 1

[0056] Uniform airflow refers to uniform natural airflow (air that has not undergone heat exchange in a heat exchanger). Passive uniform airflow refers to the process where, under the negative pressure generated by the airflow from the first and / or second air outlets of the air conditioner, a third air duct draws indoor air in and transports it to the outside of the air conditioner, mixing it with the airflow from the first or second air outlets. Active uniform airflow refers to the process where, with the first fan on and the first heat exchanger off, or the second fan on and the second heat exchanger off, indoor air is actively drawn in and transported to the outside of the air conditioner by the first or second fan, mixing it with the airflow from other air outlets of the air conditioner. When d = d min At this point, the third air duct reaches its minimum value, meaning passive airflow equalization is not present, only active airflow equalization exists. The overall airflow equalization effect of the air conditioner is also at its worst at this time.

[0057] In this embodiment, the target switching states of the first and second air supply structures are determined based on the indoor temperature, thereby achieving varying degrees of uniform airflow and maximizing user satisfaction. This ensures that the overall airflow from the air conditioner is cool without being cold and warm without being dry, improving user comfort.

[0058] Optionally, S92, the air conditioner determines the target on / off states of the first air supply structure and the second air supply structure based on the indoor temperature, including:

[0059] Air conditioners determine the degree of cooling or heating in a room based on the indoor temperature.

[0060] Air conditioners determine their heat exchange rate level based on the indoor temperature.

[0061] The air conditioner determines the target on / off state of the first and second air supply structures based on its heat exchange rate level.

[0062] A higher indoor temperature indicates a higher level of heat in the room, thus requiring a higher air conditioner heat exchange rate. Conversely, a lower indoor temperature indicates a higher level of coldness in the room, also requiring a higher air conditioner heat exchange rate. Based on the correspondence between indoor temperature, level of heat / coldness, and heat exchange rate, the level of heat / coldness corresponding to the current indoor temperature is determined, thereby determining the corresponding air conditioner heat exchange rate. For example, the correspondence between temperature, level of heat / coldness, and heat exchange rate is shown in Table 2.

[0063] It should be noted that the correspondence shown in Table 2 can be adjusted according to the actual situation or needs.

[0064]

[0065]

[0066] Table 2

[0067] Based on the correspondence between the air conditioning heat exchange rate level and the first fan, first heat exchanger, second fan, and second heat exchanger, determine the target on / off states of the first fan, first heat exchanger, second fan, and second heat exchanger corresponding to the current air conditioning heat exchange rate level. Specifically:

[0068] When the air conditioning heat exchange rate is set to "High," it indicates that the indoor temperature is too high or too low, requiring rapid heat exchange. Therefore, the target switch states of the first fan, first heat exchanger, second fan, and second heat exchanger are all set to "On." At this time, both the first and second air supply structures are activated simultaneously, maximizing heat exchange with the indoor air. Since both the first and second heat exchangers are active, only passive airflow is achieved.

[0069] When the air conditioner's heat exchange rate is set to medium, it indicates that the indoor temperature is either high or low, and a high heat exchange rate is not necessary. Therefore, the target switch states for both the first and second fans are set to "on," and the target switch states for the first and second heat exchangers are set to "on" and "off," respectively. In this case, with only one heat exchanger active, the heat exchange temperature decreases, thus reducing the heat exchange rate to some extent. Since one of the first and second heat exchangers is off, both passive and active airflow equalization occur.

[0070] When the air conditioner's heat exchange rate is set to low, it indicates that the indoor temperature is slightly higher or lower. A lower heat exchange rate is sufficient. Therefore, the target switch states for both the first fan and the first heat exchanger are set to "on," while the target switch states for both the second fan and the second heat exchanger are set to "off." Alternatively, the target switch states for both the first fan and the first heat exchanger are set to "off," while the target switch states for both the second fan and the second heat exchanger are set to "on." In other words, only one set of the two fan-heat exchangers is activated. This causes a decrease in both the heat exchange temperature and the heat exchange air velocity, further reducing the heat exchange rate. In this case, only passive airflow is achieved.

[0071] In this way, based on the current indoor temperature, by adjusting the on / off states of the first fan, the first heat exchanger, the second fan, and the second heat exchanger, different heat exchange rate levels can be matched, and different degrees of uniform airflow can be achieved, thus optimizing the user experience.

[0072] Optionally, the air conditioner may simultaneously include a first air supply structure, a second air supply structure, a third air supply structure, and an air duct. Alternatively, it may only include any two of the first, second, and third air supply structures. When a first air supply structure is included, an air duct must also be provided. When a third air supply structure is included, an air duct must also be provided.

[0073] Optionally, the air conditioner includes a first air supply structure, a second air supply structure, and an air duct. It may also include a third air supply structure or not. Figure 10 As shown in the embodiments of this disclosure, another method for controlling an air conditioner is provided, including:

[0074] S101, the air conditioner determines the target air supply demand based on indoor information.

[0075] S102, the air conditioner controls the operation of the first air supply structure and the second air supply structure according to the target air supply demand, so as to achieve different degrees of uniform airflow.

[0076] The air conditioner acquires indoor information through sensors, such as a temperature sensor to obtain the indoor temperature, a camera to capture the air conditioner's usage scenario, or a heart rate sensor to detect the user's heart rate and thus their sleep status. Based on the acquired indoor information, the target air supply demand is determined. Optionally, the target air supply demand includes: the air conditioner's heat exchange rate level and the air supply mode. Different indoor information corresponds to different target air supply demands. Based on the determined target air supply demand, the operating status of the first and second air supply structures is controlled, that is, the on / off status of the first fan, the first heat exchanger, the second fan, and the second heat exchanger is controlled. As mentioned above, different on / off statuses of the first fan, the first heat exchanger, the second fan, and the second heat exchanger will result in different degrees of uniform airflow.

[0077] In this embodiment, the target air supply demand is determined based on indoor information. Then, based on the target air supply demand, the operating states of the first and second air supply structures are controlled to achieve varying degrees of uniform airflow, maximizing the satisfaction of user needs. This ensures that the overall airflow from the air conditioner is cool but not cold, and warm but not dry, improving user comfort.

[0078] Optionally, S101, the air conditioner determines the target air supply demand based on indoor information, including:

[0079] Air conditioners determine the degree of cooling or heating in a room based on the indoor temperature.

[0080] Air conditioners determine their heat exchange rate level based on the indoor temperature.

[0081] A higher indoor temperature indicates a higher level of heat, thus requiring a higher air conditioning heat exchange rate. Conversely, a lower indoor temperature indicates a higher level of coldness, also requiring a higher air conditioning heat exchange rate. Based on the correspondence between indoor temperature, level of heat / coldness, and heat exchange rate, the level of heat / coldness corresponding to the current indoor temperature is determined, thereby determining the appropriate air conditioning heat exchange rate. For example, the correspondence between temperature, level of heat / coldness, and heat exchange rate is shown in Table 2. In this way, by classifying the level of heat / coldness based on indoor temperature, and subsequently classifying the air conditioning heat exchange rate, a suitable air conditioning heat exchange rate can be matched. This achieves accurate determination of the air conditioning heat exchange rate level, providing a foundation for subsequent precise control of the operation of the first and second air supply structures.

[0082] Optionally, S102, the air conditioner controls the operating status of the first air supply structure and the second air supply structure according to the target air supply demand, including:

[0083] The air conditioner determines the operating status of the first and second air supply structures corresponding to the current air conditioner heat exchange speed level based on the correspondence between the air conditioner heat exchange speed level and the air supply structure.

[0084] The air conditioning heat exchange rate level has a corresponding relationship with the first and second air supply structures, that is, the air conditioning heat exchange rate level corresponds to the on / off states of the first fan, first heat exchanger, second fan, and second heat exchanger. The air conditioning heat exchange rate levels include: high, medium, and low. The specific correspondences are detailed above and will not be repeated here. Based on this correspondence, the on / off states of the first fan, first heat exchanger, second fan, and second heat exchanger corresponding to the currently required air conditioning heat exchange rate level are determined. In this way, the operating states of the first and second air supply structures that match the air conditioning heat exchange rate level are obtained through this correspondence. This allows for more precise control of the first and second air supply structures, meeting the target air supply requirements while avoiding energy waste.

[0085] Optionally, embodiments of this disclosure provide another method for controlling an air conditioner, including:

[0086] Air conditioners determine the degree of cooling or heating in a room based on the indoor temperature.

[0087] Air conditioners determine their heat exchange rate level based on the indoor temperature.

[0088] The air conditioner determines its air delivery mode based on the indoor temperature, user information, or the air conditioner usage scenario.

[0089] The air conditioner controls the operation of the first and second air supply structures according to the heat exchange rate level to achieve different degrees of uniform airflow; and controls the direction of the air duct outlet according to the air supply mode of the air conditioner.

[0090] In addition to determining the air conditioner's heat exchange rate level based on indoor temperature as described above, the air supply mode can also be determined based on indoor temperature, user information, or the air conditioner's usage scenario. Different indoor temperatures and air conditioner usage scenarios result in different requirements for the speed of indoor temperature adjustment. The speed of indoor temperature adjustment is related to the air conditioner's air supply mode. Therefore, when determining the target air supply demand based on indoor information, the target air supply mode of the air conditioner can also be determined based on the indoor temperature or the air conditioner's usage scenario.

[0091] When the air conditioner is located in a large space, such as a living room, the airflow distance may not be sufficient to meet the space's needs. In this case, the airflow mode is the converged long-distance direct-blow mode. In this mode, the airflow is concentrated in one direction, thus extending the airflow distance. When the indoor temperature is too high or too low and rapid heat exchange is needed, the airflow mode is the wide-angle omnidirectional mode. In this mode, the air conditioner's airflow covers a large area, quickly cooling or heating the room. When the indoor user information indicates that the people are dispersed, the airflow mode is the wall-mounted surround mode. In this mode, the air conditioner's airflow coverage is even greater than the wide-angle omnidirectional mode, with the airflow directly adhering to the wall for omnidirectional airflow. When the indoor user information indicates that the users are concentrated on one side of the air conditioner and they do not want the airflow to blow directly on them, the airflow mode is the biased airflow mode. In this mode, the air conditioner's airflow is biased towards the opposite side where the users are concentrated, thus preventing the airflow from blowing directly on them. The biased airflow mode can deflect the airflow to the right or to the left, depending on the location of the users. Since the position of the second air outlet of the air conditioner is fixed, but the air duct is rotatable, the direction of the first air outlet (the outlet of the air duct) is variable. Therefore, the airflow mode is adjusted by changing the direction of the air duct outlet. After determining the airflow mode, the airflow mode is changed by controlling the direction of the air duct outlet.

[0092] In this way, by determining the air supply mode of the air conditioner based on indoor temperature, user information, or air conditioner usage scenario, the air supply mode of the air conditioner can be matched with a variety of information, making the air supply mode of the air conditioner more diversified and more user-friendly.

[0093] Optionally, the air conditioner controls the direction of the air duct outlet according to its air supply mode. Specifically, the converged long-distance direct blowing mode requires the airflow from the air conditioner to be concentrated in a certain direction. Since the position of the second air outlet is fixed, but the direction of the first air outlet (the outlet of the air duct) is variable, the airflow from the air conditioner can only be concentrated in the direction of the second air outlet. Figure 11 As shown, in the case of the air supply mode being the convergent long-distance direct blowing mode, the air outlet of the air duct is controlled to face the air outlet position of the second air supply structure, that is, towards the second air outlet of the air conditioner, so that the air outlet of the air duct converges towards the air outlet direction of the second air outlet of the air conditioner. The wide-angle omnidirectional mode requires a large air outlet coverage area from the air conditioner. Therefore, combined with... Figure 12 As shown, in the wide-angle omnidirectional air supply mode, the air outlet of the duct is controlled to face the air outlet position away from the second air supply structure, that is, away from the second air outlet of the air conditioner. The wall-mounted surround air supply mode requires a larger air outlet coverage area from the air conditioner. Therefore, combined with... Figure 13As shown, in the wall-mounted surround mode, the air outlet of the duct is controlled to face away from the air outlet position of the second air supply structure, i.e., away from the air outlet position of the second air outlet of the air conditioner. Specifically, in the wide-angle global mode, the angle between the direction of the air outlet of the duct and the air outlet direction of the second air supply structure is the first angle. In the wall-mounted surround mode, the angle between the direction of the air outlet of the duct and the air outlet direction of the second air supply structure is the second angle. The second angle is greater than or equal to the first angle, so that the air outlet coverage area in the wall-mounted surround mode is greater than that in the wide-angle global mode. Optionally, the first angle is 0° to 90°, and the second angle is 90°.

[0094] Optionally, the air conditioner's airflow mode also includes a direct-blow mode. In this mode, the airflow from both the first and second air outlets is directed directly in front of the air conditioner. Direct-blow mode means the air from the air conditioner blows straight out; specifically, when the direction of the air duct outlet is the same as the direction of the first or second air outlet, the airflow from the air duct and the first or second air outlet is directed directly in front of the air conditioner. Figure 7 As shown, in direct airflow mode, the direction of the air outlet of the control tube is the same as the direction of the second air outlet of the air conditioner. Users can choose direct airflow mode according to their preference. Optionally, the air conditioner's airflow mode also includes a biased airflow mode. When indoor users are concentrated on one side of the air conditioner and they do not want the air conditioner's airflow to blow directly on them, the air conditioner's airflow is biased towards the opposite side where the users are concentrated. Figure 8 As shown, if users are concentrated on the right side of the air conditioner, the air outlet of the air duct is controlled to face left. Conversely, if users are concentrated on the left side of the air conditioner, the air outlet is controlled to face right. It can be understood that if users are concentrated on one side of the air conditioner and want the airflow to blow directly on them, the airflow is controlled to be directed towards that side, i.e., the air outlet is controlled to face that side. In this way, based on the rotatability of the air duct, different air delivery modes are achieved by controlling the direction of the air outlet. Different air delivery modes can then be matched to different indoor conditions, thus meeting different needs.

[0095] Optionally, embodiments of this disclosure provide another method for controlling an air conditioner, including:

[0096] The air conditioner determines its heat exchange rate level based on the sleeping status of the indoor users.

[0097] The air conditioner controls the operation of the first and second air supply structures according to the heat exchange rate level to achieve different degrees of uniform airflow.

[0098] The user's indoor temperature requirements vary depending on their sleep state. Sleep states include both being awake and asleep. There is a correlation between sleep state and the air conditioner's heat exchange speed level. When awake, the body temperature is higher. If the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the operating temperature can be lower. If it's in heating mode, the operating temperature can be higher. That is, the air conditioner exchanges heat relatively quickly, with a high or medium heat exchange speed level. After falling asleep, the body temperature is lower. If the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the operating temperature can be higher. If it's in heating mode, the operating temperature can be lower. That is, the air conditioner exchanges heat relatively slowly, with a low heat exchange speed level. The specific implementation process for controlling the operation of the first and second air supply structures based on the heat exchange speed level is described above and will not be repeated here. Optionally, after the user falls asleep, the system can automatically select whether to perform active airflow equalization based on the user's body surface temperature. It should be noted that active airflow equalization means that in any set of fan heat exchangers, only the fan is on, and the heat exchanger is off. Optionally, a body temperature threshold can be set. When the human body surface temperature is above the body temperature threshold, one set of fan heat exchangers is turned on, and in another set, the fan is turned on while the heat exchanger is turned off, thus actively equalizing the airflow. When the human body surface temperature is below or equal to the body temperature threshold, one set of fan heat exchangers is turned on while the other set is turned off, thus not actively equalizing the airflow. In this way, the first and second air supply structures are controlled based on the user's sleep state, matching the air conditioner's heat exchange rate with the sleep state. This makes the air conditioning operation more user-friendly and intelligent.

[0099] Optionally, the air conditioner controls the fan speed based on the indoor temperature. The higher or lower the indoor temperature, the faster heat exchange is needed, and thus the higher the fan speed. This is because a higher fan speed results in a higher frequency of air sweeping, leading to faster airflow and easier temperature adjustment. Optionally, there is a direct correlation between indoor temperature and fan speed. Specifically, as shown in Table 2, indoor temperatures can be categorized to correspond to different levels of heat or cold. Different levels of heat or cold correspond to different fan speeds. When the indoor ambient temperature is generally high or low, the fan speed remains low. This maintains the temperature while saving energy. Therefore, controlling the fan speed based on indoor temperature allows for a suitable heat exchange rate, thereby appropriately regulating the indoor temperature.

[0100] Optionally, the internal air supply structure of the air conditioner may only have a first air supply structure, or only a second air supply structure, or only one of the first and second air supply structures may be operational. Combined with... Figure 14 As shown in the embodiments of this disclosure, another method for controlling an air conditioner is provided, including:

[0101] S141, the air conditioner determines the target operating state of the air duct based on its operating status.

[0102] S142, the air conditioning control duct operates according to the target operating state to achieve different degrees of uniform airflow in the third air supply structure; wherein, the operating state of the air conditioner includes: the air supply mode of the air conditioner or the operating state of the internal air supply structure.

[0103] The operating status of an air conditioner includes its air supply mode and the operating status of its internal air supply structure. The operating status of the internal air supply structure includes the operating status of either the first or second air supply structure. As mentioned earlier, the air duct can rotate; therefore, the target state of the air duct includes its target position. When the air duct is in different positions, the distance between the outer wall of the air duct and the inner wall of the baffle is different, i.e., the size of the third air duct is different, and therefore the airflow uniformity of the third air duct will also be different. Based on the operating status of the air conditioner, the target position of the air duct is determined. Then, the air duct is controlled to operate according to the target operating state, causing the third air supply structure to uniformly distribute airflow to different degrees. This ultimately changes the overall uniformity of airflow in the air conditioner.

[0104] In this embodiment, the target operating state of the air duct is determined based on the operating state of the air conditioner. The air duct is then operated according to the target operating state, thereby enabling the third air supply structure to achieve varying degrees of airflow uniformity. In other words, different operating states of the air conditioner correspond to different operating states of the air duct. This ensures that the degree of airflow uniformity matches the operating state of the air conditioner, maximizing the satisfaction of user needs. The overall airflow from the air conditioner is cool but not cold, and hot but not dry, improving user comfort.

[0105] Optionally, S141, the air conditioner determines the target operating state of the air duct based on its operating state, including:

[0106] The air conditioner obtains the air supply mode.

[0107] The air conditioner determines the distance between the air duct and the inner wall of the baffle based on the air supply mode.

[0108] The air conditioner determines the target location of the air duct based on the determined spacing.

[0109] In addition to the various air supply modes mentioned earlier, the air supply modes also include direct airflow to people mode, non-direct airflow to people mode, and constant temperature air supply mode. When the air conditioner is running, its air supply mode can be obtained. As mentioned earlier, the size of the third air duct refers to the distance between the outer wall of the air duct and the inner wall of the baffle. The distance d between the air duct and the inner wall of the baffle is determined according to the air supply mode. Since the time interval d changes when the air duct rotates to different positions, the target position of the air duct can be determined based on the determined distance d. Thus, the air supply volume varies depending on the air supply mode. Matching different air duct positions can achieve different degrees of uniform airflow. This ensures that the air conditioner's output air is cool but not cold, and hot but not dry.

[0110] Optionally, the air conditioner determines the target location of the air duct based on the air supply mode, including:

[0111] When the air supply mode is set to direct airflow to people, the distance d between the air duct and the inner wall of the baffle is determined to be d = d. max .

[0112] When the air supply mode is set to non-direct airflow mode, the distance d between the air duct and the inner wall of the baffle is determined to be d. min <d<d max .

[0113] When the air supply mode is constant temperature air supply mode, the distance d between the air duct and the inner wall of the baffle is determined to be d = d. min .

[0114] As mentioned earlier, air conditioners have many airflow modes. This section will only detail the direct airflow mode, the indirect airflow mode, and the constant temperature airflow mode.

[0115] When the first or second fan is operating at high speed and high air volume:

[0116] Scenario 1: If the airflow mode is set to direct airflow to a person, the cold or hot air blowing directly onto the person will cause discomfort. Therefore, determine d = d max At this point, the passive airflow reaches its maximum, which can neutralize cold or hot air. Even if a large volume of air blows directly onto a person, it will feel cool without being cold, and hot without being dry.

[0117] Scenario 2: If the airflow mode is set to non-direct airflow mode, the user will not experience significant temperature discomfort because the cold or hot air will not blow directly onto them. In this case, there is no need to regulate the air conditioner's output temperature through excessive airflow, meaning the need for airflow equalization is not strong. Therefore, determine d. min <d<d max At this time, the air conditioner should be set to a low, uniform airflow setting.

[0118] When the first or second fan is operating at a medium to low speed:

[0119] Scenario 1: If the air supply mode is direct airflow to the person, then d = d max The reasons are explained above and will not be repeated here.

[0120] Scenario 2: If the air supply mode is non-direct airflow mode, then determine d. min <d<d max The reasons are explained above and will not be repeated here.

[0121] Scenario 3: If the air supply mode is constant temperature air supply mode, the purpose of the air conditioner operating in this mode is to maintain a constant ambient temperature, generally corresponding to a low-fan energy-saving mode. In this case, there is no need for uniform airflow. Therefore, d = d min .

[0122] In this way, the distance between the air duct and the inner wall of the baffle is determined according to the specific air supply mode of the air conditioner, thus resulting in different air volumes in the third air duct. This allows for varying degrees of uniform airflow, adapting to different air supply modes and making the air conditioning output more comfortable.

[0123] Optionally, S141, the air conditioner determines the target operating state of the air duct based on its operating state, including:

[0124] The air conditioner obtains the operating status of its internal air supply structure.

[0125] The air conditioner determines the distance between the air duct and the inner wall of the baffle based on the operating status of the internal air supply structure.

[0126] The air conditioner determines the target location of the air duct based on the determined spacing.

[0127] The operating status of the internal air supply structure includes either the operating status of the first air supply structure or the operating status of the second air supply structure. The operating status of the first air supply structure includes the rotational speed of the first fan and the heat exchange efficiency of the first heat exchanger. The operating status of the second air supply structure includes the rotational speed of the second fan and the heat exchange efficiency of the second heat exchanger. The distance *d* between the outer wall of the air duct and the inner wall of the baffle is determined based on the operating status of the internal air supply structure. Different distances *d* result in different sizes of the third air duct and thus different uniform airflow. Since the distance *d* changes when the air duct rotates to different positions, the target position of the air duct can be determined based on the determined distance *d*. Thus, by determining different distances *d* based on the different operating statuses of the internal air supply structure, different positions of the air duct can be obtained. This allows for the achievement of an optimal uniform airflow that matches the operating status of the internal air supply structure, resulting in more comfortable airflow from the air conditioner.

[0128] Optionally, the air conditioner determines the distance between the air duct and the inner wall of the baffle based on the operating status of the internal air supply structure, including:

[0129] When both the rotational speed and heat exchange efficiency are at their maximum, the internal distance d between the air duct and the baffle in the air conditioning system is determined to be d = d max .

[0130] When neither the rotation speed nor the heat exchange efficiency is at its maximum, the air conditioner acquires information about the indoor users; based on this information, it determines the distance between the air duct and the inner wall of the baffle.

[0131] Scenario 1: When both the fan speed and the heat exchanger efficiency are at their maximum, the air conditioner's airflow reaches its maximum, making users more susceptible to colds or other discomfort. Therefore, determine d = d max At this point, the airflow reaches its maximum.

[0132] Scenario 2: When the fan speed and heat exchanger efficiency are not at their maximum, for example, when the fan speed is at medium to low speed and the heat exchanger efficiency is relatively low, the airflow from the air conditioner decreases. Users do not experience significant discomfort from the airflow, so theoretically, uniform airflow is not necessary. In this case, information about the indoor users is obtained to determine whether uniform airflow is needed, and if so, whether a large or small uniform airflow is required. This determines the distance between the outer wall of the air outlet duct and the inner wall of the baffle.

[0133] It is understandable that the fan and heat exchanger here are from the same fan heat exchanger group.

[0134] In this way, on the one hand, the spacing is determined based on the fan speed and the heat exchanger efficiency, thereby obtaining the maximum uniform air volume and making the air conditioning more comfortable. On the other hand, the spacing d is determined based on the information of the indoor users, so that the uniform air volume of the air conditioner better meets the users' needs, thus making the operation of the air conditioner more intelligent and user-friendly.

[0135] Optionally, the air conditioner determines the distance between the air duct and the inner wall of the baffle based on the information of the indoor users, including:

[0136] The air conditioner determines the target uniform air volume based on the information of the indoor users.

[0137] The air conditioner determines the spacing corresponding to the target uniform air volume based on the correspondence between uniform air volume and spacing.

[0138] Indoor user information can include: the user's habitual airflow, the user's preferred airflow, etc. First, indoor users are tagged for intelligent user identification. Then, when the air speed and heat exchange efficiency are not at their maximum, the user's habitual or preferred airflow is recorded, thus establishing a correspondence between user information and airflow. Habitual airflow can be the airflow that the user frequently adjusts over a period of time, such as 5-7 days. Preferred airflow can be input by the user beforehand via remote control or mobile app. After the correspondence is established, if the user does not need airflow, it will not be adjusted. If the user needs airflow, the target airflow for the current user is determined. After determining the target airflow, the corresponding spacing can be determined based on the correspondence between airflow and spacing. The correspondence between airflow and spacing can be set before the air conditioner leaves the factory, or it can be set by the user according to their preferences or habits. In this way, even in cases where airflow is theoretically unnecessary, the need for airflow and the appropriate airflow are further determined based on the user's individual characteristics, making the air conditioning more personalized.

[0139] Optionally, the air conditioner determines the target location of the air duct based on the determined spacing, including:

[0140] The air conditioner determines the target position corresponding to the determined spacing based on the correspondence between the spacing and the position of the air duct.

[0141] The distance between the outer wall of the duct and the inner wall of the baffle varies as the duct rotates to different positions. The rotation range of the duct is divided into multiple position intervals as needed. When the duct rotates within one position interval, the airflow of the third duct can be considered almost constant. This establishes a correspondence between the distance and the duct position. Based on this relationship, the target position corresponding to the previously determined distance can be obtained. Then, the duct can be controlled to rotate to the target position. This achieves the purpose of determining the target position of the duct.

[0142] Combination Figure 15 As shown in the embodiments of this disclosure, another method for controlling an air conditioner is provided, including:

[0143] S151, when the air conditioner's air supply mode is set to direct airflow to people, the air conditioner acquires indoor information.

[0144] S152, the air conditioner determines the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts based on the indoor information.

[0145] S153, the air conditioner controls the operation of the first air supply structure according to the target air volume.

[0146] Users can send a command to the air conditioner to adjust the airflow mode to "direct airflow to people" mode via remote control or terminal device. The air conditioner responds to this command and operates in "direct airflow to people" mode. As mentioned earlier, "direct airflow to people" mode means that the air conditioner's airflow blows directly onto a person. When the air conditioner is operating in "direct airflow to people" mode, it acquires indoor information through sensors and other means. Based on the indoor information, it determines the target airflow volume delivered by the first airflow structure to the two air ducts. Then, it controls the operating state of the first airflow structure according to the target airflow volume. The terminal device refers to an electronic device with wireless connectivity. The terminal device can communicate with the aforementioned smart home appliances by connecting to the internet, or directly via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other means. In some embodiments, the terminal device may be, for example, a mobile device, a computer, or an in-vehicle device built into a hovercraft, or any combination thereof. Mobile devices may include, for example, mobile phones, smart home devices, wearable devices, smart mobile devices, virtual reality devices, or any combination thereof. Wearable devices may include, for example, smartwatches, smart bracelets, pedometers, etc.

[0147] In this embodiment, based on indoor information, the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts is determined, thereby controlling the operating state of the first air supply structure. By controlling the air volume delivered to the two air ducts, the adverse effects of the direct airflow mode are reduced, while also meeting the user's need for direct airflow to people. This improves the user experience and makes the air conditioning airflow more intelligent.

[0148] Optionally, S152, the air conditioner determines the target air volume for the first air supply structure to supply air to the two air ducts based on indoor information, including:

[0149] The air conditioner determines user needs based on indoor user information.

[0150] Based on user needs, the air conditioner determines the target air volume that the first air supply structure delivers to the two air ducts.

[0151] Indoor information includes: indoor user information. Users have the most direct experience regarding the appropriateness of the air conditioner's airflow. Therefore, user needs are determined based on indoor user information. Optionally, the air conditioner uses a camera to identify the user, thereby determining the user's historical needs when the air conditioner is operating in direct-blow mode. Then, based on user needs, the target airflow delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts is determined. In this way, determining the target airflow delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts based on user needs allows the airflow from the two air ducts to better match the user's specific needs, thereby improving the user experience.

[0152] Optionally, the air conditioner determines the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts according to user needs, including:

[0153] When the user's requirement is direct airflow to a person, the air conditioner determines that the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts is the same.

[0154] When user needs include both direct airflow and non-direct airflow, the air conditioner determines that the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts is different.

[0155] The air conditioner operates in direct-airflow mode in response to a command. This command is usually sent by a single user. However, when multiple users are present in the room, some may not want direct airflow. The air conditioner can identify the users through a camera and determine their preference based on their past actions in direct-airflow mode. Alternatively, users can pre-input their preference for direct-airflow mode into the air conditioner. If the user preference is direct airflow, meaning all users in the room want direct airflow, the target airflow delivered by the first air supply structure to both air ducts is determined to be the same. This ensures that the airflow from both ducts is identical, satisfying the preference of all users. If the user preference includes both direct airflow and non-direct airflow, meaning some users prefer direct airflow while others do not, the target airflow delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts is determined to be different. Optionally, the target airflow delivered by the first air supply structure to one air duct may be greater than that to the other. Users who prefer direct airflow can move to the area covered by the duct with the higher airflow. Users who do not wish to be directly exposed to the airflow can move to an area covered by a duct with a smaller airflow. This allows the air conditioner to cater to both users who prefer direct airflow and those who do not, making the airflow more user-friendly and intelligent.

[0156] Optionally, the air conditioner determines the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts according to user needs, including:

[0157] The air conditioner determines the target air duct based on the location of people indoors.

[0158] The air conditioner determines the relationship between the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the target air duct and the other air duct based on user needs.

[0159] Indoor information also includes the location of people within the room. A longitudinal plane is defined, passing through the central axis of the air conditioner, with the left and right air ducts symmetrical about this plane. This longitudinal plane divides the indoor space into left and right spaces. The left air duct corresponds to the left side of the space, and the right air duct corresponds to the right side. The air conditioner determines the location of people using methods such as cameras. Based on the location of the people, the air conditioner determines the corresponding air duct. If the people are in the left side of the space, the left air duct is the target air duct. If the people are in the right side of the space, the right air duct is the target air duct. Further, user needs are determined, and the relationship between the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the target air duct and the other air duct is determined based on these needs. In this way, first considering the location of the people, the target air duct corresponding to the user is determined to meet the user's objective needs. Then, considering the user's subjective needs, the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to both air ducts is determined to meet the user's subjective needs. This combination of objective and subjective needs makes the air duct's airflow more intelligent.

[0160] Optionally, the air conditioner determines the relationship between the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the target air duct and the other air duct according to user needs, including:

[0161] When the user's requirement is direct airflow to a person, the air conditioner determines that the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the air duct corresponding to the location of the person is greater than the target air volume delivered to the other air duct.

[0162] When the user's requirement is not to blow air directly on people, the air conditioner determines that the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the air duct corresponding to the location of the people is less than the target air volume delivered to the other air duct.

[0163] User needs can be categorized into those who prefer direct airflow and those who don't. The air conditioner can identify users using cameras or similar methods. Based on past user interactions with the direct airflow mode, it determines whether the user's need is for direct airflow or not. For a given group, the majority's need takes precedence. If more users in the group prefer direct airflow than not, the user's need is determined to be for direct airflow. In this case, the target airflow delivered by the first air supply structure to the target duct is greater than the target airflow delivered to the other duct, satisfying the majority of users' need for direct airflow. The airflow from the other duct is smaller, allowing users who don't want direct airflow to move to the area covered by the other duct to reduce the direct airflow. If fewer or equal to the number of users who prefer direct airflow, the user's need is determined to be for not direct airflow. In this case, the target airflow delivered by the first air supply structure to the target duct is less than the target airflow delivered to the other duct, satisfying the majority of users' need to avoid direct airflow. At this point, the other duct has a larger airflow. Users in the crowd who prefer direct airflow can move to the area covered by the other duct to enhance the feeling of direct airflow from the air conditioner. In this way, the target airflow delivered by the first air supply structure to the two ducts is determined based on the user's specific need for direct airflow, thus fully meeting the needs of different users.

[0164] Optionally, S153, the air conditioner controls the operating state of the first air supply structure according to the target air volume, including:

[0165] Under the same target air volume, the air conditioning control splitter is in its original state.

[0166] When the target air volume is different, the air conditioning control splitter deflects towards the side with the smaller target air volume.

[0167] As mentioned earlier, a deflectable baffle is located in the middle of the air outlet of the volute. By controlling the deflection direction of the baffle, the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts can be controlled. When the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts is the same, the baffle is kept in its original state, i.e., it does not deflect to either side. When the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts is different, the baffle is deflected towards the side with the smaller target air volume. For example, if it is determined that the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the left air duct is greater than the target air volume delivered to the right air duct, the baffle is deflected to the right. This causes the baffle to block the right air outlet area of ​​the volute while reducing the obstruction of the left air outlet area, thus resulting in greater airflow from the left than from the right. In this way, by controlling the deflection direction of the baffle, different target air volumes can be delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts.

[0168] Optionally, embodiments of this disclosure provide another method for controlling an air conditioner, including:

[0169] Indoor information is obtained when the air conditioner is in direct airflow mode.

[0170] Based on indoor information, the air conditioner determines the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts, and the target direction of the air supply from the two air ducts to the room.

[0171] The air conditioner controls the operation of the first air supply structure according to the target air volume, and controls the rotation direction of the two air ducts according to the target direction.

[0172] Users can send a command to the air conditioner to adjust the airflow mode to "direct airflow to people" mode via remote control or terminal device. The air conditioner responds to this command and operates in direct airflow mode. As mentioned earlier, direct airflow mode means the air conditioner's airflow is directly directed at a person. When the air conditioner is operating in direct airflow mode, it acquires indoor information through sensors and other means. Based on this information, it determines the target airflow volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts. Simultaneously, as mentioned earlier, since the two air ducts can rotate, the target airflow direction is determined based on the indoor information. Then, the operating state of the first air supply structure is controlled according to the target airflow volume. Simultaneously, the rotation direction of the two air ducts is controlled according to the determined target direction. In this way, when the air conditioner is operating in direct airflow mode, the target airflow volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts is determined based on indoor information, thereby controlling the operating state of the first air supply structure. By controlling the airflow volume to the two air ducts, the adverse effects of direct airflow mode are reduced, while still meeting the user's need for direct airflow to people, thus improving the user experience. Simultaneously, the system determines the target direction of the two air ducts based on indoor information to control their rotation direction, thereby matching the airflow direction to the indoor information. By controlling the airflow volume and direction of the air ducts, the air conditioning system achieves more intelligent airflow, resulting in a better user experience.

[0173] Optionally, the air conditioner determines the target direction of the airflow from the two air ducts into the room based on indoor information, including:

[0174] When the user's requirement is for the air to blow directly on a person, the air conditioner determines the target direction as the direction of the user's location.

[0175] If the user's requirement is to avoid direct airflow onto people, the air conditioner will determine the target direction to avoid the direction of the user's location.

[0176] Indoor information includes user needs and user location. The target directions of the two air ducts are determined based on these needs and location. User needs include: direct airflow and non-direct airflow. When the user needs direct airflow, the target direction of the air duct is determined to be the direction of the user's location. The air duct is then rotated so that its outlet faces the user, ensuring the airflow directly hits the user and satisfies their desire for direct airflow. When the user needs non-direct airflow, the target direction of the air duct is determined to avoid the user's location. The air duct is then rotated so that its outlet avoids the user, ensuring the airflow does not directly hit the user and satisfies their desire for non-direct airflow. Thus, based on the user's desired airflow and location, the direction of airflow into the room is determined, ensuring the airflow meets the user's needs.

[0177] Optionally, embodiments of this disclosure provide another method for controlling an air conditioner, including:

[0178] Air conditioners measure the carbon dioxide concentration in indoor air.

[0179] When the carbon dioxide concentration is greater than the concentration threshold, the air conditioner operates in fresh air mode.

[0180] The air conditioner controls the operation of the primary air supply structure based on the outdoor fresh air temperature.

[0181] The indoor unit or the air conditioner itself is equipped with a sensor to detect carbon dioxide concentration. The air conditioner obtains the carbon dioxide concentration of the indoor air through the sensor and sets a concentration threshold. When the obtained carbon dioxide concentration is greater than the concentration threshold, it indicates that the indoor air is relatively polluted, and the fresh air function needs to be activated. At this time, the air conditioner operates in fresh air mode, controlling the opening of the fresh air inlet. Fresh air enters the room through the fresh air inlet, the first air duct, and the air pipe. Simultaneously, the air conditioner obtains the outdoor fresh air temperature and compares it with the target temperature of the air conditioner. If the difference Δt between the outdoor fresh air temperature and the target temperature is t1≤Δt≤t2, it means that the difference between the outdoor fresh air temperature and the target temperature is small, and no adjustment of the outdoor fresh air temperature is required. At this time, the first heat exchanger does not need to operate (no cooling or heating is required). If the difference Δt between the outdoor fresh air temperature and the target temperature is Δt<t1 or t2<Δt, it means that the difference between the outdoor fresh air temperature and the target temperature is large. To avoid large fluctuations in indoor temperature caused by the introduction of outdoor fresh air, the outdoor fresh air temperature needs to be adjusted. The system controls the first heat exchanger to preheat or precool the outdoor fresh air, ensuring the temperature difference Δt between the outdoor fresh air and the target temperature is t1 ≤ Δt ≤ t2. The second air outlet of the air conditioner allows the outdoor fresh air to be blown further and mixes thoroughly with the indoor air. When the carbon dioxide concentration is less than or equal to the concentration threshold, the indoor air quality is good, and the fresh air function does not need to be activated. Thus, when fresh air exchange is required, the operation of the first air supply structure is controlled based on the outdoor fresh air temperature to regulate the fresh air temperature. This avoids large fluctuations in indoor temperature during fresh air exchange, resulting in a better user experience.

[0182] This disclosure provides an apparatus for controlling an air conditioner, including: an acquisition module, a determination module, and a control module. The acquisition module is configured to acquire the current indoor temperature. The determination module is configured to determine target on / off states of a first air supply structure and a second air supply structure based on the indoor temperature. The control module is configured to control the first and second air supply structures to operate according to their corresponding target on / off states.

[0183] The air conditioning control device provided in this embodiment determines the target switching states of the first and second air supply structures based on the indoor temperature, thereby achieving varying degrees of uniform airflow and maximizing user satisfaction. This ensures the overall airflow from the air conditioner is cool without being cold and warm without being dry, improving user comfort.

[0184] This disclosure provides another device for controlling an air conditioner, including a determining module and a controlling module. The determining module is configured to determine a target air supply demand based on indoor information. The controlling module is configured to control the operating states of a first air supply structure and a second air supply structure according to the target air supply demand, so as to achieve different degrees of uniform airflow.

[0185] The air conditioning control device provided in this embodiment determines the target air supply demand based on indoor information. Then, based on the target air supply demand, it controls the operating states of the first and second air supply structures to achieve varying degrees of uniform airflow, maximizing the satisfaction of user needs. This ensures that the overall airflow from the air conditioner is cool but not cold, and hot but not dry, improving user comfort.

[0186] This disclosure provides another device for controlling an air conditioner, including a determining module and a controlling module. The determining module is configured to determine a target operating state of the air duct based on the operating state of the air conditioner. The controlling module is configured to control the air duct to operate according to the target operating state to achieve different degrees of uniform airflow in the third air supply structure; wherein, the operating state of the air conditioner includes: the air supply mode of the air conditioner or the operating state of the internal air supply structure.

[0187] The device for controlling an air conditioner provided in this embodiment determines the target operating state of the air duct based on the air conditioner's operating status. The air duct is then operated according to the target operating state, thereby causing the third air supply structure to achieve varying degrees of airflow uniformity. In other words, different operating states of the air conditioner correspond to different operating states of the air duct. This matches the degree of airflow uniformity with the air conditioner's operating state, maximizing the satisfaction of user needs. The overall airflow from the air conditioner is cool but not cold, and hot but not dry, improving user comfort.

[0188] This disclosure provides another device for controlling an air conditioner, including: an acquisition module, a determination module, and a control module. The acquisition module is configured to acquire indoor information when the air conditioner's air supply mode is a direct-blowing mode. The determination module is configured to determine, based on the indoor information, the target air volume delivered by a first air supply structure to two air ducts. The control module is configured to control the operating state of the first air supply structure according to the target air volume.

[0189] The device for controlling an air conditioner provided in this embodiment determines the target air volume delivered by the first air supply structure to the two air ducts based on indoor information when the air conditioner is operating in direct-blowing mode, thereby controlling the operating state of the first air supply structure. By controlling the air volume delivered to the two air ducts, the adverse effects of the direct-blowing mode are reduced, while also meeting the user's demand for direct airflow. This improves the user experience and makes the air conditioner's airflow more intelligent.

[0190] Combination Figure 16As shown, this disclosure provides an apparatus for controlling an air conditioner, including a processor 160 and a memory 161. Optionally, the apparatus may further include a communication interface 162 and a bus 163. The processor 160, communication interface 162, and memory 161 can communicate with each other via the bus 163. The communication interface 162 can be used for information transmission. The processor 160 can call logical instructions in the memory 161 to execute the method for controlling the air conditioner described in the above embodiment.

[0191] Furthermore, the logic instructions in the aforementioned memory 101 can be implemented as software functional units and, when sold or used as independent products, can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium.

[0192] The memory 161, as a computer-readable storage medium, can be used to store software programs and computer-executable programs, such as program instructions / modules corresponding to the methods in the embodiments of this disclosure. The processor 160 executes functional applications and data processing by running the program instructions / modules stored in the memory 161, that is, it implements the method for controlling the air conditioner in the above embodiments.

[0193] The memory 161 may include a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area may store the operating system and applications required for at least one function; the data storage area may store data created based on the use of the terminal device. Furthermore, the memory 161 may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-volatile memory.

[0194] This disclosure provides an air conditioner that includes the above-described device for controlling the air conditioner.

[0195] This disclosure provides a storage medium storing computer-executable instructions configured to perform the above-described method for controlling an air conditioner.

[0196] The aforementioned storage medium can be a transient computer-readable storage medium or a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

[0197] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings fully illustrate embodiments of this disclosure to enable those skilled in the art to practice them. Other embodiments may include structural, logical, electrical, procedural, and other changes. The embodiments represent only possible variations. Individual components and functions are optional unless explicitly required, and the order of operation may vary. Parts and features of some embodiments may be included in or replace parts and features of other embodiments. Moreover, the terminology used in this application is for describing embodiments only and is not intended to limit the claims. As used in the description of embodiments and claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to equally include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Similarly, the term “and / or” as used in this application means including one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations thereof. Additionally, when used in this application, the term "comprise" and its variations "comprises" and / or "comprising" refer to the presence of stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprises a..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, or apparatus that includes said element. In this document, each embodiment may focus on the differences from other embodiments, and similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to mutually. For methods, products, etc., disclosed in the embodiments, if they correspond to the method section disclosed in the embodiments, the relevant parts can be referred to the description of the method section.

[0198] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to embodiments of this disclosure. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code containing one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. In some alternative implementations, the functions marked in the blocks may occur in a different order than that shown in the drawings. For example, two consecutive blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. In the descriptions corresponding to the flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings, the operations or steps corresponding to different blocks may also occur in a different order than disclosed in the description, and sometimes there is no specific order between different operations or steps. For example, two consecutive operations or steps may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. Each block in a block diagram and / or flowchart, and combinations of blocks in a block diagram and / or flowchart, can be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or action, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

Claims

1. A method for controlling an air conditioner, the air conditioner comprising: A housing; characterized in that it further comprises: a first air supply structure and a second air supply structure disposed within the housing; both the first air supply structure and the second air supply structure are capable of introducing indoor air and delivering natural wind or heat-exchanged wind to the room under different operating conditions; a rotatable air duct disposed on the side of the housing, the side wall of the air duct having an air outlet, and the first air supply structure being connected to the room through the air outlet of the air duct; a third air supply structure is also disposed on the side of the housing, the third air supply structure comprising a third air duct, the inlet and outlet of the third air duct being connected to the room; the third air supply structure further comprises a baffle with an arc-shaped surface, the gap between the inner wall of the baffle and the outer wall of the air duct forming the third air duct, the distance between the outer wall of the air duct and the inner wall of the third air duct being different when the air duct is rotated to different positions; the method comprises: Determine the degree of hotness or coldness of the room based on the indoor temperature; Determine the air conditioning heat exchange rate level based on the indoor temperature. Determine the air supply mode of the air conditioner based on the indoor temperature, user information, or air conditioner usage scenario; Based on the air conditioning heat exchange rate level, the operating status of the first air supply structure and the second air supply structure is controlled to achieve different degrees of uniform airflow; and the direction of the air outlet of the air duct is controlled according to the air supply mode of the air conditioner. The step of controlling the direction of the air duct outlet according to the air supply mode of the air conditioner includes: When the air supply mode is the convergent long-distance direct blowing mode, control the air outlet of the air duct to face the air outlet position of the second air supply structure; When the air supply mode is wide-angle full-area air supply mode, the air outlet of the air duct is controlled to face away from the air outlet position of the second air supply structure, and the angle between the air outlet of the air duct and the air outlet direction of the second air supply structure is the first angle. When the air supply mode is the wall-mounted surround air supply mode, the direction of the air outlet of the air duct is controlled to be away from the air outlet position of the second air supply structure, and the angle between the direction of the air outlet of the air duct and the air outlet direction of the second air supply structure is the second angle. Wherein, the second included angle is greater than the first included angle.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first air supply structure includes: a first air duct, and a first fan and a first heat exchanger disposed in the first air duct; the air inlet and air outlet of the first air duct are both connected to the room; the operating state of the first air supply structure includes: the on / off state of the first fan and the on / off state of the first heat exchanger. The second air supply structure includes: a second air duct, and a second fan and a second heat exchanger disposed in the second air duct; the air inlet and air outlet of the second air duct are both connected to the room; the operating state of the second air supply structure includes: the on / off state of the second fan and the on / off state of the second heat exchanger.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, The step of controlling the operating status of the first air supply structure and the second air supply structure according to the air conditioning heat exchange rate level includes: Based on the correspondence between the air conditioning heat exchange rate level and the air supply structure, determine the operating status of the first air supply structure and the second air supply structure corresponding to the current air conditioning heat exchange rate level.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, Also includes: The air conditioner's heat exchange rate level is determined based on the sleeping status of indoor users.

5. An apparatus for controlling an air conditioner, comprising a processor and a memory having stored program instructions, characterized in that, The processor is configured to, when executing the program instructions, perform the method for controlling an air conditioner as described in any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. An air conditioner comprising: The housing; characterized in that it further comprises: The first air supply structure and the second air supply structure are both disposed inside the housing; The first air supply structure includes: First air duct; The first fan and the first heat exchanger are both located inside the first air duct; The second air supply structure includes: Second air duct; The second fan and the second heat exchanger are both located inside the second air duct; A rotatable air duct is disposed on the side of the housing, and an air outlet is provided on the side wall of the air duct. Furthermore, the first air duct is connected to the interior through the air outlet of the air duct. A third air supply structure is disposed on the side of the housing. The third air supply structure includes a third air duct, the inlet and outlet of which are connected to the interior. The third air supply structure also includes an arc-shaped baffle; the gap between the inner wall of the baffle and the outer wall of the air duct forms the third air duct. The distance between the outer wall of the air duct and the inner wall of the third air duct varies when the air duct rotates to different positions. The apparatus for controlling an air conditioner as described in claim 5; in, Both the first and second air supply structures can introduce indoor air and can deliver natural wind or heat-exchanged wind to the room under different operating conditions.