Method and device for controlling a multi-split air conditioner, and multi-split air conditioner

Abstract

This application relates to the field of multi-split air conditioner control technology, and discloses a method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner, comprising: calculating a target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting stage when the temperature value collected by the defrosting temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner is lower than a first temperature and remains so for a first duration; performing defrosting control on the multi-split air conditioner according to the target output frequency; obtaining the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor when the temperature value collected by the defrosting temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner reaches a second temperature and remains so for a second duration; and controlling the multi-split air conditioner to execute a control scheme for increasing the exhaust superheat of the compressor when the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor is lower than a preset threshold. This effectively maintains the exhaust superheat of the compressor during the defrosting stage, avoiding the occurrence of compressor oil shortage. This application also discloses a device for controlling a multi-split air conditioner and a multi-split air conditioner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of multi-split air conditioning control technology, for example to a method, apparatus and multi-split air conditioning for controlling a multi-split air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, multi-split air conditioners typically require the heating mode to provide warmth to the indoor unit during winter. Specifically, multi-split air conditioners can defrost at a fixed output frequency, ensuring sufficient exhaust temperature for the compressor. However, this control method has limitations; it is not suitable for situations where the load on the multi-split air conditioner suddenly decreases. If the load on the indoor unit suddenly decreases, the compressor output frequency will also decrease, and the exhaust temperature will drop accordingly. Therefore, the current defrosting control method cannot guarantee the exhaust superheat during and after defrosting when the load suddenly decreases, and it cannot prevent compressor oil shortages due to low exhaust superheat. Therefore, how to more accurately control the defrosting of multi-split air conditioners to avoid compressor oil shortages caused by insufficient exhaust superheat has become an urgent technical problem to be solved.

[0003] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this application, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0004] 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.

[0005] This disclosure provides a method, apparatus, and multi-split air conditioner for controlling a multi-split air conditioner, so as to more accurately control the defrosting of the multi-split air conditioner and avoid the occurrence of compressor oil shortage due to the inability to guarantee exhaust superheat.

[0006] In some embodiments, the method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner includes: calculating a target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting phase when the temperature value collected by the defrosting temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner is as low as a first temperature and remains so for a first duration; performing defrosting control on the multi-split air conditioner according to the target output frequency; acquiring the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor when the temperature value collected by the defrosting temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner reaches a second temperature and remains so for a second duration; and controlling the multi-split air conditioner to execute a control scheme to increase the exhaust superheat of the compressor when the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor is lower than a preset threshold, until the defrosting operation ends when the exhaust superheat of the compressor reaches the preset threshold.

[0007] In some embodiments, the method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner includes: obtaining the outdoor ambient temperature, the load variation range of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner, and the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the defrosting preparation moment; and calculating the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting phase based on the outdoor ambient temperature, the load variation range of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner, and the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the defrosting preparation moment.

[0008] In some embodiments, the method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner includes: calculating a first defrost frequency enhancement coefficient based on the outdoor ambient temperature; calculating a second defrost frequency enhancement coefficient based on the load variation of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner; calculating a third defrost frequency enhancement coefficient based on the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the defrost preparation moment; and using the product of the standard output frequency of the multi-split air conditioner compressor, the first defrost frequency enhancement coefficient, the second defrost frequency enhancement coefficient, and the third defrost frequency enhancement coefficient as the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrost phase.

[0009] In some embodiments, the method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner includes: determining the temperature range of the outdoor ambient temperature; and, according to a first correspondence, using the defrost frequency enhancement coefficient corresponding to the temperature range as the first defrost frequency enhancement coefficient.

[0010] In some embodiments, the method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner includes: determining the range of load variation of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner; and, according to a second correspondence, using the defrost frequency enhancement coefficient corresponding to the range as the second defrost frequency enhancement coefficient.

[0011] In some embodiments, the method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner includes: determining the time range between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the moment when defrosting preparation begins; and using the defrosting frequency enhancement coefficient corresponding to the time range as the third defrosting frequency enhancement coefficient according to a third correspondence.

[0012] In some embodiments, the method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner includes: controlling the multi-split air conditioner to increase the compressor output frequency while reducing the opening of the electronic expansion valve of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner.

[0013] In some embodiments, the device for controlling a multi-split air conditioner includes: a calculation module configured to calculate a target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting phase when the temperature value collected by the defrosting temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner is lower than a first temperature and remains so for a first duration; a first control module configured to perform defrosting control on the multi-split air conditioner according to the target output frequency; an acquisition module configured to acquire the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor when the temperature value collected by the defrosting temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner reaches a second temperature and remains so for a second duration; and a second control module configured to control the multi-split air conditioner to execute a control scheme for increasing the exhaust superheat of the compressor when the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor is lower than a preset threshold, until the defrosting operation ends when the exhaust superheat of the compressor reaches the preset threshold.

[0014] In some embodiments, the apparatus for controlling a multi-split air conditioner includes a processor and a memory storing program instructions, the processor being configured to execute the aforementioned method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner when the program instructions are executed.

[0015] In some embodiments, the multi-split air conditioner includes the aforementioned device for controlling the multi-split air conditioner.

[0016] The method, apparatus, and multi-split air conditioner for controlling a multi-split air conditioner provided in this disclosure can achieve the following technical effects: When the temperature value collected by the defrost temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner is lower than a first temperature and remains so for a first duration, the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrost stage is calculated; and defrost control of the multi-split air conditioner is performed according to the target output frequency; thereby, when the temperature value collected by the defrost temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner reaches a second temperature and remains so for a second duration, the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor is obtained; furthermore, when the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor is lower than a preset threshold, the multi-split air conditioner is controlled to execute a control scheme to increase the compressor exhaust superheat until the compressor exhaust superheat reaches the preset threshold, at which point the defrost operation ends. This scheme enables more precise defrost control of the multi-split air conditioner, effectively maintaining the compressor exhaust superheat during and after the defrost stage, and avoiding compressor oil shortage due to insufficient exhaust superheat.

[0017] The above general description and the description below are exemplary and illustrative only and are not intended to limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0018] 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:

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a method for calculating target output power provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0021] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another method for calculating target output power provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a method for calculating a first defrost frequency enhancement coefficient provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0023] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a device for controlling a multi-split air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0024] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another device for controlling a multi-split air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] Unless otherwise stated, the term "multiple" means two or more.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] In this embodiment of the disclosure, smart home appliances refer to home appliances formed by introducing microprocessors, sensor technology and network communication technology into home appliances. They have the characteristics of intelligent control, intelligent sensing and intelligent application. The operation of smart home appliances often relies on the application and processing of modern technologies such as the Internet of Things, the Internet and electronic chips. For example, smart home appliances can be connected to electronic devices to enable users to remotely control and manage smart home appliances.

[0032] In this embodiment of the disclosure, 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 methods. 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.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure; combined with Figure 1 As shown, optionally, embodiments of this disclosure provide a method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner, comprising:

[0034] S11, when the temperature value collected by the defrost temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner is as low as the first temperature and remains so for the first duration, the multi-split air conditioner calculates the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrost stage.

[0035] S12, the multi-split air conditioner performs defrosting control according to the target output frequency.

[0036] S13, when the temperature value collected by the defrost temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner reaches the second temperature and remains there for the second duration, the multi-split air conditioner obtains the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor.

[0037] S14, when the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor is lower than the preset threshold, the multi-split air conditioner controls the multi-split air conditioner to execute a control scheme to increase the exhaust superheat of the compressor until the exhaust superheat of the compressor reaches the preset threshold and the defrosting operation ends.

[0038] In this solution, the multi-split air conditioner is associated with a defrost temperature sensor. As an example, the defrost temperature sensor can be set on the refrigerant inflow side of the outdoor heat exchanger in heating mode. Specifically, the multi-split air conditioner can acquire the temperature value collected by its associated defrost temperature sensor, and determine that it meets the defrost conditions when the temperature value collected by the associated defrost temperature sensor is lower than a first temperature and remains so for a first duration. Understandably, the temperature collected by the defrost temperature sensor will vary depending on the outdoor ambient temperature. Therefore, the specific value of the first temperature needs to be determined in conjunction with the outdoor ambient temperature. For example, if the outdoor ambient temperature is -7℃, then the first temperature is -10℃, and the first duration can be 4 minutes or 5 minutes. Furthermore, when it is determined that the defrost conditions are met, the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrost stage can be calculated. In this way, the timing of the target output frequency calculation is accurately determined, providing a precise data basis for the defrost control of the multi-split air conditioner.

[0039] Furthermore, multi-split air conditioners can perform defrosting control according to the target output frequency. In this way, the compressor's operating parameters can be adjusted based on the calculated target output frequency, allowing for more reasonable control of the compressor's output frequency during the defrosting phase and preventing a drop in exhaust temperature due to a decrease in the compressor's output frequency.

[0040] Furthermore, during the defrosting process, the air conditioner switches to cooling mode to allow high-temperature gas to enter the outdoor heat exchanger to release heat and defrost. At this time, the multi-split air conditioner can again acquire the temperature value through its associated defrost temperature sensor. This defrost temperature sensor is located on the refrigerant outlet side of the outdoor heat exchanger. Therefore, if the temperature value collected by the defrost temperature sensor reaches a second temperature and remains there for a second duration, it can be determined that the defrost exit condition is met. Here, the second temperature and second duration can still be determined by the outdoor ambient temperature. As an example, if the outdoor ambient temperature is -7℃, then the second temperature can be 20℃, and the second duration can be 2 minutes. Furthermore, when it is determined that the defrost exit condition is met, the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor can be acquired. In this way, the timing for acquiring the exhaust superheat is accurately determined.

[0041] In this embodiment, to maintain the superheat of the compressor's exhaust in the multi-split air conditioner, a preset threshold of 50°C can be set. Then, if the compressor's exhaust superheat is below 50°C, the multi-split air conditioner will execute a control scheme to increase the compressor's exhaust superheat until the superheat reaches 50°C, at which point the defrosting process ends. The control scheme for increasing the compressor's exhaust superheat includes: controlling the multi-split air conditioner to increase the compressor's output frequency while simultaneously reducing the opening of the electronic expansion valve on the indoor unit.

[0042] Optionally, after detecting that the multi-split air conditioner has finished defrosting, the multi-split air conditioner controls the electronic expansion valve of the indoor unit to return to its initial opening. In this way, the electronic expansion valve can be reset after the multi-split air conditioner finishes defrosting.

[0043] Optionally, if the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor exceeds a preset threshold, the multi-split air conditioner can be controlled to stop defrosting.

[0044] The method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner provided in this disclosure calculates the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting phase when the temperature value collected by the defrosting temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner is low to a first temperature and remains low for a first duration. The multi-split air conditioner is then defrosted according to the target output frequency. When the temperature value collected by the defrosting temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner reaches a second temperature and remains low for a second duration, the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor is obtained. Furthermore, when the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor is lower than a preset threshold, the multi-split air conditioner is controlled to execute a control scheme to increase the compressor exhaust superheat until the compressor exhaust superheat reaches the preset threshold, at which point the defrosting operation ends. This method enables more precise defrosting control of the multi-split air conditioner, effectively maintaining the compressor exhaust superheat during and after the defrosting phase, and avoiding compressor oil shortage due to insufficient exhaust superheat.

[0045] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a method for calculating target output power provided in an embodiment of this disclosure; combined with Figure 2 As shown, optionally, in S11, the multi-split air conditioner calculates the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting stage, including:

[0046] S21, the time interval between the outdoor ambient temperature, the load variation range of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner, and the time when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the time when defrosting preparation begins;

[0047] S22, the multi-split air conditioner calculates the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting stage based on the outdoor ambient temperature, the load variation of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner, and the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the moment of defrosting preparation.

[0048] In this solution, the multi-split air conditioner can obtain the outdoor ambient temperature, the load variation range of the indoor unit, and the time interval between the moment when the indoor unit's load drops to the target load and the defrost preparation time. Specifically, the outdoor ambient temperature is obtained through an ambient temperature sensor; the load variation range of the indoor unit is calculated as the difference between the initial load and the subsequent load variation; and the time interval between the moment when the indoor unit's load drops to the target load and the defrost preparation time is the difference between these two times. Here, the target load is the lowest load during the load variation phase. This solution enables precise determination of the outdoor ambient temperature, the load variation range of the indoor unit, and the time interval between the moment when the indoor unit's load drops to the target load and the defrost preparation time.

[0049] Furthermore, multi-split air conditioners can combine outdoor ambient temperature, the load variation of the indoor unit, and the time interval between the moment the indoor unit's load drops to the target load and the defrosting preparation time to more accurately calculate the compressor's target output frequency during the defrosting phase. This ensures that the target output frequency calculated in this way better aligns with the changing patterns of outdoor ambient temperature and indoor unit load, guaranteeing the accuracy of the target output power.

[0050] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another method for calculating target output power provided in this disclosure embodiment; combined with Figure 3 As shown, optionally, in step S22, the multi-split air conditioner calculates the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting stage based on the outdoor ambient temperature, the load variation range of the indoor unit, and the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit drops to the target load and the defrosting preparation moment, including:

[0051] S31, the multi-split air conditioner calculates the first defrost frequency increase coefficient based on the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0052] S32, the multi-split air conditioner calculates the second defrost frequency increase coefficient based on the load variation of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner.

[0053] S33, the multi-split air conditioner calculates the third defrost frequency enhancement coefficient based on the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the time when defrosting preparation.

[0054] S34, the multi-split air conditioner uses the product of the standard output frequency of the multi-split air conditioner compressor, the first defrost frequency increase coefficient, the second defrost frequency increase coefficient and the third defrost frequency increase coefficient as the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrost stage.

[0055] In this solution, the multi-split air conditioner can calculate the first defrost frequency enhancement factor based on the outdoor ambient temperature, the second defrost frequency enhancement factor based on the load variation of the indoor unit, and the third defrost frequency enhancement factor based on the time interval between the moment the indoor unit's load drops to the target load and the defrost preparation moment. In this way, the first, second, and third defrost frequency enhancement factors can be accurately determined.

[0056] Furthermore, the multi-split air conditioner uses the product of the standard output frequency of the compressor, the first defrost boost factor, the second defrost boost factor, and the third defrost boost factor as the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrost stage. That is: F = f * a * b * c; where F is the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrost stage, f is the standard output frequency of the compressor, a is the first defrost boost factor, b is the second defrost boost factor, and c is the third defrost boost factor. The standard output frequency f of the compressor is the output frequency of the compressor during the regular defrost stage, which can be pre-stored by the user in the multi-split air conditioner. In this way, the target output frequency can be accurately determined by combining the standard output frequency of the compressor, the first defrost boost factor, the second defrost boost factor, and the third defrost boost factor.

[0057] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a method for calculating a first defrost frequency enhancement coefficient provided in an embodiment of this disclosure; combined with Figure 4 As shown, optionally, in S31, the multi-split air conditioner calculates the first defrost frequency increase coefficient based on the outdoor ambient temperature, including:

[0058] S41, the multi-split air conditioner determines the temperature range of the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0059] S42, the multi-split air conditioner uses the defrost frequency enhancement coefficient corresponding to the temperature range as the first defrost frequency enhancement coefficient according to the first correspondence relationship.

[0060] Understandably, higher outdoor ambient temperatures result in higher suction pressure, and excessively increasing the frequency can lead to a rapid rise in high pressure. Conversely, lower outdoor ambient temperatures result in lower suction pressure, and increasing the frequency by the same amount will not cause a significant increase in high pressure. Therefore, in this embodiment, a first correspondence can be pre-stored in the multi-split air conditioner based on experimental results and the rule that higher outdoor ambient temperatures correspond to lower defrost frequency increase coefficients. This first correspondence represents the defrost frequency increase coefficients corresponding to different outdoor ambient temperature ranges. As a preferred approach, the first correspondence includes: if the outdoor ambient temperature is < -25℃, the corresponding frequency increase coefficient is 1.1; if the outdoor ambient temperature is -25℃ < ≤ -15℃, the corresponding frequency increase coefficient is 1.08; if the outdoor ambient temperature is -15℃ < ≤ -5℃, the corresponding frequency increase coefficient is 1.06; if the outdoor ambient temperature is -5℃ < ≤ 0℃, the corresponding frequency increase coefficient is 1.04; and if the outdoor ambient temperature is 0℃ < ≤ 5℃, the corresponding frequency increase coefficient is 1.02. In this way, after obtaining the outdoor ambient temperature, the multi-split air conditioner can determine its temperature range and then, based on the first correspondence, match the defrost frequency increase coefficient corresponding to the temperature range, thus determining it as the first defrost frequency increase coefficient. This method achieves accurate determination of the first defrost frequency increase coefficient.

[0061] Optionally, S32, the multi-split air conditioner calculates the second defrost frequency increase coefficient based on the load variation of the indoor unit, including:

[0062] Determine the range of load variation of the indoor unit of a multi-split air conditioner.

[0063] According to the second correspondence, the defrost frequency enhancement coefficient corresponding to the amplitude range is used as the second defrost frequency enhancement coefficient for multi-split air conditioners.

[0064] Understandably, the greater the reduction in load on the indoor unit of a multi-split air conditioner, the greater the reduction in compressor operating frequency. This also significantly impacts the decrease in exhaust temperature. Therefore, in this embodiment, a second correspondence can be pre-stored in the multi-split air conditioner based on experimental results and the general rule that a greater reduction in indoor unit load corresponds to a greater defrost frequency increase coefficient. This second correspondence represents the defrost frequency increase coefficient corresponding to different load variation ranges. As a preferred embodiment, the second correspondence includes: if the load variation range of the multi-split air conditioner indoor unit is ≤20%, the corresponding frequency increase coefficient is 1.05; if the load variation range of the multi-split air conditioner indoor unit is 20% < ≤30%, the corresponding frequency increase coefficient is 1.06; if the load variation range of the multi-split air conditioner indoor unit is 30% < ≤40%, the corresponding frequency increase coefficient is 1.07; if the load variation range of the multi-split air conditioner indoor unit is 40% < ≤50%, the corresponding frequency increase coefficient is 1.08; if the load variation range of the multi-split air conditioner indoor unit is 50% < ≤60%, the corresponding frequency increase coefficient is 1.09; and if the load variation range of the multi-split air conditioner indoor unit is 60% < ≤60%, the corresponding frequency increase coefficient is 1.10. In this way, after obtaining the load variation range of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner, the range within which it falls can be determined. Then, by combining this with the second correspondence, a defrost frequency enhancement coefficient corresponding to the range can be matched and determined as the second defrost frequency enhancement coefficient. In this way, the accurate determination of the second defrost frequency enhancement coefficient is achieved.

[0065] Optionally, S33, the multi-split air conditioner calculates a third defrost frequency enhancement factor based on the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the defrost preparation moment, including:

[0066] The time range between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of a multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the moment when defrosting preparation begins is determined.

[0067] According to the third correspondence, the defrosting frequency enhancement coefficient corresponding to the time range is used as the third defrosting frequency enhancement coefficient for multi-split air conditioners.

[0068] Understandably, the longer the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the moment of defrosting preparation, the less the exhaust temperature is affected by load changes. At this point, it is possible to enter a stable operating state, and the exhaust temperature has already risen. Therefore, in this embodiment, a third correspondence can be pre-stored in the multi-split air conditioner based on experimental results and the rule that a smaller time interval corresponds to a larger defrosting frequency increase coefficient. The third correspondence refers to the defrosting frequency increase coefficient corresponding to different time interval ranges. As a preferred embodiment, the third correspondence includes: if the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the moment of defrosting preparation is ≤2 minutes, the corresponding frequency increase coefficient is 1.06; if the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the moment of defrosting preparation is 2 minutes < ≤4 minutes, the corresponding frequency increase coefficient is 1.05; if the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the moment of defrosting preparation is 4 minutes < ≤6 minutes, the corresponding frequency increase coefficient is... The coefficient is 1.04; if the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the defrosting preparation time falls within 6 minutes < time interval ≤ 8 minutes, the corresponding frequency enhancement coefficient is 1.03; if the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the defrosting preparation time falls within 8 minutes < time interval ≤ 10 minutes, the corresponding frequency enhancement coefficient is 1.02; if the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the defrosting preparation time falls within 10 minutes < time interval, the corresponding frequency enhancement coefficient is 1.01. Thus, after obtaining the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the defrosting preparation time, the time range within which it falls can be determined. Then, by combining this with the third correspondence, the defrosting frequency enhancement coefficient corresponding to the time range can be matched and determined as the third defrosting frequency enhancement coefficient. In this way, the accurate determination of the third defrosting frequency enhancement coefficient is achieved.

[0069] Optionally, the control scheme for improving the superheat of the compressor discharge includes:

[0070] Multi-split air conditioner control: While increasing the compressor output frequency, the opening of the electronic expansion valve of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner is reduced.

[0071] Specifically, the multi-split air conditioner control system increases the compressor output frequency while simultaneously reducing the opening of the electronic expansion valve in the indoor unit. This includes controlling the multi-split air conditioner to increase the compressor output frequency by 5Hz while reducing the opening of the electronic expansion valve in the indoor unit by 30%. In this way, by more rationally regulating the compressor output frequency and the electronic expansion valve, the compressor's exhaust superheat is improved in a timely and effective manner.

[0072] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a device for controlling a multi-split air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure; combined with Figure 5 As shown, this disclosure provides an apparatus for controlling a multi-split air conditioner, including a calculation module 51, a first control module 52, an acquisition module 53, and a second control module 54. The calculation module 51 is configured to calculate the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting phase when the temperature value collected by the defrosting temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner is lower than a first temperature and remains so for a first duration. The first control module 52 is configured to perform defrosting control on the multi-split air conditioner according to the target output frequency. The acquisition module 53 is configured to acquire the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor when the temperature value collected by the defrosting temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner reaches a second temperature and remains so for a second duration. The second control module 54 is configured to control the multi-split air conditioner to execute a control scheme to increase the compressor exhaust superheat when the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor is lower than a preset threshold, until the compressor exhaust superheat reaches the preset threshold and the defrosting operation ends.

[0073] The apparatus for controlling a multi-split air conditioner provided in this disclosure calculates the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting stage when the temperature value collected by the defrosting temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner is lower than a first temperature and remains so for a first duration. It then controls the defrosting of the multi-split air conditioner according to the target output frequency. When the temperature value collected by the defrosting temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner reaches a second temperature and remains so for a second duration, it obtains the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor. Furthermore, when the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor is lower than a preset threshold, it controls the multi-split air conditioner to execute a control scheme to increase the compressor exhaust superheat until the compressor exhaust superheat reaches the preset threshold, at which point the defrosting operation ends. This scheme enables more precise defrosting control of the multi-split air conditioner, effectively maintaining the compressor exhaust superheat during and after the defrosting stage, and avoiding compressor oil shortage due to insufficient exhaust superheat.

[0074] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another device for controlling a multi-split air conditioner provided in this disclosure embodiment; combined with Figure 6As shown, this disclosure provides an apparatus for controlling a multi-split air conditioner, including a processor 100 and a memory 101. Optionally, the apparatus may further include a communication interface 102 and a bus 103. The processor 100, communication interface 102, and memory 101 can communicate with each other via the bus 103. The communication interface 102 can be used for information transmission. The processor 100 can call logical instructions in the memory 101 to execute the method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner described in the above embodiment.

[0075] 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.

[0076] The memory 101, 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 100 executes functional applications and data processing by running the program instructions / modules stored in the memory 101, that is, it implements the method for controlling multi-split air conditioners in the above embodiments.

[0077] The memory 101 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 101 may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-volatile memory.

[0078] This disclosure provides a multi-split air conditioner, including the above-described device for controlling the multi-split air conditioner.

[0079] This disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions configured to perform the above-described method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner.

[0080] This disclosure provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program stored on a computer-readable storage medium. The computer program includes program instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the above-described method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner.

[0081] The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium may be a transient computer-readable storage medium or a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

[0082] The technical solutions of this disclosure can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes one or more instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the method described in this disclosure. The aforementioned storage medium can be a non-transitory storage medium, including: a USB flash drive, a portable hard drive, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk, or an optical disk, and other media capable of storing program code; it can also be a transient storage medium.

[0083] 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.

[0084] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of the embodiments of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0085] The methods and products (including but not limited to devices and equipment) disclosed in the embodiments herein can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of units may be merely a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. In addition, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection between the shown or discussed units may be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units, that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units may be selected to implement this embodiment according to actual needs. Furthermore, the functional units in the embodiments of this disclosure may be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit may exist physically separately, or two or more units may be integrated into one unit.

[0086] 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 a multi-split air conditioner, characterized in that, include: If the temperature value collected by the defrost temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner is as low as the first temperature and remains so for the first duration, calculate the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrost phase. The multi-split air conditioner is defrosted according to the target output frequency. When the temperature value collected by the defrost temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner reaches the second temperature and remains there for the second duration, the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor is obtained. When the exhaust superheat of the compressor of the multi-split air conditioner is lower than a preset threshold, the multi-split air conditioner is controlled to execute a control scheme to increase the exhaust superheat of the compressor until the exhaust superheat of the compressor reaches the preset threshold and the defrosting operation ends. The target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting stage is calculated as follows: Obtain the outdoor ambient temperature, the load variation range of the multi-split air conditioner indoor unit, and the time interval between the moment when the load of the multi-split air conditioner indoor unit drops to the target load and the defrosting preparation time; based on the outdoor ambient temperature, the load variation range of the multi-split air conditioner indoor unit, and the time interval between the moment when the load of the multi-split air conditioner indoor unit drops to the target load and the defrosting preparation time, calculate the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting stage.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The calculation of the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting stage, based on the outdoor ambient temperature, the load variation of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner, and the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the defrosting preparation moment, includes: Calculate the first defrosting frequency enhancement coefficient based on the outdoor ambient temperature; Calculate the second defrost frequency increase coefficient based on the load variation of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner; The third defrost frequency enhancement coefficient is calculated based on the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the moment when defrosting preparation begins. The product of the standard output frequency of the multi-split air conditioner compressor, the first defrost frequency enhancement coefficient, the second defrost frequency enhancement coefficient, and the third defrost frequency enhancement coefficient is used as the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrost stage.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The step of calculating the first defrosting frequency enhancement coefficient based on the outdoor ambient temperature includes: Determine the temperature range within which the outdoor ambient temperature falls; According to the first correspondence, the defrost frequency enhancement coefficient corresponding to the temperature range is taken as the first defrost frequency enhancement coefficient.

4. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The calculation of the second defrost frequency enhancement coefficient based on the load variation of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner includes: Determine the range of load variation of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner; According to the second correspondence, the defrost frequency enhancement coefficient corresponding to the amplitude range is taken as the second defrost frequency enhancement coefficient.

5. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The calculation of the third defrosting frequency enhancement coefficient based on the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the defrosting preparation time includes: Determine the time range between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the moment when defrosting preparation begins; According to the third correspondence, the defrosting frequency enhancement coefficient corresponding to the time range is taken as the third defrosting frequency enhancement coefficient.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control scheme for improving compressor exhaust superheat includes: The multi-split air conditioner is controlled to increase the compressor output frequency while reducing the opening of the electronic expansion valve of the indoor unit.

7. A device for controlling a multi-split air conditioner, characterized in that, include: The calculation module is configured to calculate the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting stage when the temperature value collected by the defrosting temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner is as low as a first temperature and remains so for a first duration. The first control module is configured to perform defrosting control on the multi-split air conditioner according to the target output frequency; The acquisition module is configured to acquire the exhaust superheat of the multi-split air conditioner compressor when the temperature value collected by the defrost temperature sensor associated with the multi-split air conditioner reaches a second temperature and remains there for a second duration. The second control module is configured to control the multi-split air conditioner to execute a control scheme to increase the superheat of the compressor exhaust when the superheat of the compressor exhaust is lower than a preset threshold, until the defrosting operation ends when the superheat of the compressor exhaust reaches the preset threshold. The target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting stage is calculated as follows: Obtain the outdoor ambient temperature, the load variation range of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner, and the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the moment when defrosting preparation begins; Based on the outdoor ambient temperature, the load variation of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner, and the time interval between the moment when the load of the indoor unit of the multi-split air conditioner drops to the target load and the moment of defrosting preparation, the target output frequency of the compressor during the defrosting stage is calculated.

8. A device for controlling a multi-split air conditioner, comprising a processor and a memory storing program instructions, characterized in that, The processor is configured to, when executing the program instructions, perform the method for controlling a multi-split air conditioner as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

9. A multi-split air conditioner, characterized in that, Includes the device for controlling a multi-split air conditioner as described in claim 7 or 8.

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