Method for controlling an air conditioner of a recreational vehicle

By immersing the radiator in the cooling medium within the cooling unit and adjusting the water level and air conditioning operation status according to the temperature threshold, the problem of insufficient heat dissipation of the RV air conditioning control board is solved, achieving more efficient heat dissipation and a longer service life.

CN116729058BActive Publication Date: 2025-11-18QINGDAO HAIER AIR CONDITIONER GENERAL CORP LTD +2
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202310549006.3
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-05-16
Publication Date
2025-11-18
Estimated Expiration
2043-05-16

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The heat dissipation of the control board of the existing RV air conditioner is not good, which affects its performance and service life, especially in high-temperature environments.

Method used

The radiator is housed within the cooling unit, and the radiator is assisted in cooling by the cooling medium. Based on the relationship between the detected temperature and the preset temperature threshold, the water level of the cooling medium and the operating status of the RV air conditioner are flexibly controlled to improve the heat dissipation effect and control the performance of the main board.

Benefits of technology

It effectively improves the heat dissipation of the radiator, extends the service life of the control board, and enhances the control performance of the RV air conditioner and the driving experience.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present application relates to air conditioning technical field, specifically disclose a kind of control method of motor home air conditioner, to solve the problem of poor heat dissipation effect of the control board of existing motor home air conditioner.For this purpose, the motor home air conditioner of the present application includes cooling unit and radiator for heat dissipation of the control board of motor home air conditioner, radiator is housed in cooling unit and auxiliary cooling is carried out to radiator by cooling medium, the control method includes the following steps: obtaining the detection temperature of radiator in the operation process of motor home air conditioner;According to the size relationship between detection temperature and preset temperature threshold, selectively control the water level of cooling medium and the operating state of motor home air conditioner.The water level of cooling medium is adjusted adaptively according to the detection temperature in the present application, and the operating state of motor home air conditioner is logically controlled, so as to effectively improve the heat dissipation effect of radiator, and then effectively improve the control performance of the control board of motor home air conditioner, and prolong the service life of control board.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and specifically provides a control method for an RV air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] A motorhome (RV) is a type of mobile vehicle equipped with essential home infrastructure. As people's living standards continue to improve, more and more people are choosing to drive RVs when traveling or going on trips. During RV use, especially in summer, the high external temperature leads to a relatively high internal temperature. To provide a more comfortable environment, RVs are usually equipped with air conditioning to regulate the interior temperature.

[0003] According to the structural design of the spatial layout, the control board of the existing RV air conditioner is mainly located in the radiation area of ​​the external fan of the air conditioner, so as to dissipate heat from the control board through the rotation of the fan. However, the control board has a high temperature during operation, especially in the hot summer, which reduces the heat dissipation effect of the control board, thereby affecting its working performance and service life. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, namely, to solve the problem of poor heat dissipation of the control motherboard of existing RV air conditioners.

[0005] To this end, the present invention provides a control method for a motorhome air conditioner, the motorhome air conditioner including a cooling unit and a radiator, the radiator being used to dissipate heat from the control mainboard of the motorhome air conditioner, wherein the radiator is housed within the cooling unit, so as to provide auxiliary cooling to the radiator through a cooling medium within the cooling unit, the control method for the motorhome air conditioner including the following steps:

[0006] The temperature of the radiator during the operation of the RV air conditioner is obtained;

[0007] Based on the relationship between the detected temperature and the preset temperature threshold, the water level of the cooling medium and the operating status of the RV air conditioner are selectively controlled.

[0008] In the preferred technical solution of the above-mentioned control method based on RV air conditioning, the preset temperature threshold includes a first threshold and a second threshold, wherein the first threshold is less than the second threshold;

[0009] The step of "selectively controlling the water level of the cooling medium and the operating status of the RV air conditioner based on the relationship between the detected temperature and the preset temperature threshold" includes:

[0010] When the detected temperature is less than the first threshold, the water level of the cooling medium and the operation of the RV air conditioner are processed in the first way.

[0011] When the detected temperature is greater than or equal to the first threshold but less than the second threshold, a second process is performed on the water level of the cooling medium and the operation of the RV air conditioner.

[0012] When the detected temperature is greater than or equal to the second threshold, a third process is performed on the water level of the cooling medium and the operation of the RV air conditioner.

[0013] In the preferred technical solution of the above-mentioned control method based on RV air conditioning, the step of "when the detected temperature is less than the first threshold, performing a first process on the water level of the cooling medium and the operation of the RV air conditioning" includes:

[0014] When the detected temperature is less than the first threshold, the water level of the cooling medium remains unchanged, and the RV air conditioner continues to operate.

[0015] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned control method based on RV air conditioning, the step of "performing a second process on the water level of the cooling medium and the operation of the RV air conditioning when the detected temperature is greater than or equal to the first threshold but less than the second threshold" includes:

[0016] When the detected temperature is greater than or equal to the first threshold but less than the second threshold, the water level of the cooling medium increases to increase the contact area between the radiator and the cooling medium, and the RV air conditioner continues to operate.

[0017] In the preferred technical solution of the above-mentioned control method based on RV air conditioner, the RV air conditioner includes a condensate collection unit, the condensate collection unit is connected to the cooling unit through a first pipe, the first pipe is provided with a drive water pump and a first switch, wherein the first switch is located between the drive water pump and the condensate collection unit.

[0018] The cooling unit is equipped with a first water level detection unit, which is used to detect the water level height of the cooling medium.

[0019] The step of "increasing the water level of the cooling medium to increase the contact area between the radiator and the cooling medium" includes:

[0020] The drive pump and the first switch are started to transport the cooling medium in the condensate collection unit to the cooling unit, thereby increasing the water level of the cooling medium in the cooling unit.

[0021] The first water level detection unit starts running, and when the water level of the cooling medium exceeds the limit threshold, the drive pump stops running and the first switch is turned off.

[0022] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned control method based on RV air conditioning, the step of "performing a third process on the water level of the cooling medium and the operation of the RV air conditioning when the detected temperature is greater than or equal to the second threshold" includes:

[0023] When the detected temperature is greater than or equal to the second threshold, the first water level detection unit stops operating and continues to keep the drive water pump and the first switch in the open state to continue increasing the water level of the cooling medium.

[0024] In the preferred technical solution of the above-mentioned control method based on RV air conditioning, the cooling unit is provided with an overflow port;

[0025] The step of "stopping the first water level detection unit and continuing to keep the drive pump and the first switch in the open state to continue increasing the water level of the cooling medium" includes:

[0026] When the water level of the cooling medium exceeds the overflow port, the excess cooling medium flows out through the overflow port.

[0027] When the detected temperature drops below the second threshold, the drive water pump is turned off.

[0028] In the preferred technical solution of the above-mentioned control method based on RV air conditioner, the RV air conditioner further includes a water storage tank, the water storage tank is connected to the cooling unit through a second pipe, and a second switch is provided on the second pipe;

[0029] The condensate collection unit is equipped with a second water level detection unit;

[0030] The method for controlling the RV air conditioner also includes the following steps:

[0031] The second water level detection unit is used to detect the water level of the condensate in the condensate collection unit in real time.

[0032] During either the second or the third process, when the water level of the condensate in the condensate collection unit is lower than a preset water level threshold, the first switch is turned off and the second switch is turned on to deliver the cooling medium to the cooling unit through the water storage tank.

[0033] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned control method for RV air conditioning, during or after the step of "delivering the cooling medium to the cooling unit through the water tank", the control method for RV air conditioning further includes the following steps:

[0034] During the second switch opening process, when the flow rate of the cooling medium in the driving water pump is lower than a preset threshold, the second processing or the third processing process is repeated a predetermined number of times.

[0035] After a predetermined number of the second or third processing steps, the real-time flow rate of the cooling medium in the driving water pump is obtained.

[0036] When the real-time flow rate is still lower than the preset threshold, the instantaneous temperature of the radiator is obtained.

[0037] The operating status of the RV air conditioner is controlled based on the real-time temperature.

[0038] In the preferred technical solution of the above-mentioned control method based on RV air conditioning, a temperature detection unit is provided in the cooling unit, and the temperature detection unit is used to detect the instantaneous temperature of the radiator in real time.

[0039] The steps of "controlling the operating status of the RV air conditioner based on the instantaneous temperature" include:

[0040] When the instantaneous temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature, the RV air conditioner will start a water shortage fault alarm.

[0041] When the instantaneous temperature is greater than the second temperature and the water shortage alarm is still not cleared, the RV air conditioner stops operating.

[0042] In the RV air conditioner of the present invention, the radiator is housed in a cooling unit, and the cooling medium in the cooling unit is used to assist in cooling the radiator. The radiator is used to dissipate heat from the control board of the RV air conditioner. In the control method of the RV air conditioner, the detected temperature of the radiator during the operation of the RV air conditioner is first obtained. Then, the detected temperature is compared with a preset temperature threshold. Based on the comparison result, the water level of the cooling medium and the operating status of the RV air conditioner are selectively controlled. This improves the heat dissipation effect of the radiator and effectively enhances the control performance of the control board of the RV air conditioner, extending the service life of the control board. Attached Figure Description

[0043] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a motorhome air conditioner according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0045] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for an RV air conditioner according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0046] Figure 3 This is a logic diagram illustrating a control method for an RV air conditioner according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0047] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0048] 1. RV air conditioner; 2. Cooling unit; 3. Radiator; 4. Control board; 5. Condensate collection unit; 6. Water tank; 7. First pipe; 8. Drive pump; 9. First switch; 10. Second pipe; 11. Second switch; 12. Check valve; 21. First water level detection unit; 22. Temperature detection unit; 51. Second water level detection unit. Detailed Implementation

[0049] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the technical solutions of this invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0050] The embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain the present invention, but should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a motorhome air conditioner 1, which includes a cooling unit 2 and a radiator 3.

[0052] The radiator 3 is used to dissipate heat from the control board 4 of the RV air conditioner. The radiator 3 is housed within the cooling unit 2, and can be further cooled by the cooling medium within the cooling unit 2. In other words, the radiator 3 can be immersed in the cooling medium. Therefore, by changing the water level in the cooling medium, different contact areas can be created between the radiator 3 and the cooling medium. This allows for variations in the heat dissipation effect of the radiator 3 based on the water level. For example, when the ambient temperature is high, increasing the water level enhances the auxiliary cooling effect of the radiator 3. Conversely, when the ambient temperature is low, decreasing the water level allows the fan in the parking air conditioner to achieve the desired heat dissipation for the control board.

[0053] Reference Figure 1As shown, in some embodiments, the cooling unit 2 can be a water tank or water bath, etc., and a first water level detection unit 21 is provided inside the cooling unit 2. The first water level detection unit 21 is used to detect the water level height of the cooling medium in the water tank or water bath. It should be noted that the first water level detection unit may include, but is not limited to, a water level sensor. The cooling medium may include, but is not limited to, cooling water, condensate generated during the operation of the RV air conditioner, or coolant, etc.

[0054] An overflow port (not shown in the figure) is provided on the cooling unit 2. When the water level of the cooling medium in the cooling unit 2 exceeds the overflow port, the excess cooling medium can flow out of the overflow port to limit the water level of the cooling medium and prevent the water level of the cooling medium from being too high and overflowing the control board, thereby causing the control board to touch the cooling medium and affecting the performance of the control board.

[0055] Reference Figure 1 As shown, a temperature detection unit 22 is also provided within the cooling unit 2. The temperature detection unit 22 is used to detect the instantaneous temperature of the radiator 3 in real time, or it can also be used to detect the temperature of the radiator 3. On the other hand, the temperature of the radiator 3 can also be indirectly reflected based on the temperature detection of the cooling medium by the temperature detection unit 22. The temperature detection unit 22 may include, but is not limited to, a temperature sensor or a temperature and humidity sensor.

[0056] Continue to refer to Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the RV air conditioner 1 further includes a condensate collection unit 5 and a water storage tank 6. A second water level detection unit 51 is provided in the condensate collection unit 5, which is used to collect the condensate generated during the use of the RV air conditioner. The second water level detection unit 51 is used to detect changes in the water level of the condensate in the condensate collection unit 5 in real time, and the second water level detection unit 51 may include, but is not limited to, a water level sensor. The water storage tank 6 is a water tank provided with the RV, and it stores cooling water.

[0057] The condensate collection unit 5 and the cooling unit 2 are connected by a first pipe 7, on which a drive water pump 8 and a first switch 9 are installed. The first switch 9 is located between the drive water pump 8 and the condensate collection unit 5. The drive water pump 8 is used to transport the condensate in the condensate collection unit 5 to the cooling unit 2, and the first switch 9 is used to cut off or open the first pipe 7.

[0058] The water storage tank 6 is connected to the cooling unit 2 through the second pipeline 10, and a second switch 11 is provided on the second pipeline 10. Specifically, one end of the second pipeline 10 is connected to the water storage tank 6, and the other end can be connected to the first pipeline 7 between the driving water pump 8 and the first switch 9. At this time, by turning off the driving water pump 8, the first switch 9, and the second switch 11, the condensed water in the condensed water collection unit 5 can be transported to the cooling unit 2, or the cooling water in the water storage tank 6 can be transported to the cooling unit 2.

[0059] It should be noted that the driving water pump 8 can include, but is not limited to, a variable frequency water pump to achieve the transportation of condensed water or cooling water with different flow rates by changing the water pump frequency. The first switch 9 and the second switch 11 can adopt the same switch valve. For example, both the first switch 9 and the second switch 11 adopt solenoid valves.

[0060] Refer to Figure 1 As shown, a check valve 12 is also provided on the first pipeline 7 between the cooling unit 2 and the driving water pump 8. The check valve 12 is configured to allow the condensed water or cooling water to move in the direction of the cooling unit 2, and the condensed water or cooling water is not allowed to move in the direction of the driving water pump 8.

[0061] It should be noted that in this example, the first water level detection unit 21, the temperature detection unit 22, the driving water pump 8, the first switch 9, the second switch 11, and the second water level detection unit 51 are all connected to the control main board of the RV air conditioner through signal lines (as shown by the dotted line in Figure 1 ) to perform logical control on the actions of the above components through the control main board.

[0062] In the above embodiment, by immersing the radiator 3 in the low-temperature cooling medium, as the external environmental temperature changes, the water level height of the cooling medium is adjusted to change the different contact areas between the cooling medium and the radiator 3. At the same time, based on the interlocking control of other structural components in the RV air conditioner and in coordination with the operation logic control of the RV air conditioner, the cooling unit 2 is used to assist in cooling the radiator 3. Among them, during the interlocking control process of the structural components in the RV air conditioner, the condensed water in the condensed water collection unit 5 is preferentially used to assist in cooling the radiator 3. When the condensed water in the condensed water collection unit 5 is lower than the preset water level threshold, the first switch 9 is closed, the second switch 11 is opened, and the driving water pump 8 is used to transport the cooling water in the water storage tank 6 to the cooling unit 2, and then the cooling water is used to assist in cooling the radiator 3. Thus, while effectively improving the heat dissipation effect of the radiator 3, the control performance of the control main board 4 of the RV air conditioner can be improved, and the service life of the control main board can be extended.

[0063] Such as Figure 2As shown, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention also provides a method for controlling a motorhome air conditioner. This method includes the following steps:

[0064] Step S100: Obtain the detected temperature of the radiator during the operation of the RV air conditioner.

[0065] Step S200: Based on the relationship between the detected temperature and the preset temperature threshold, selectively control the water level of the cooling medium and the operating status of the RV air conditioner.

[0066] During RV use, the RV air conditioner generates significant heat after being powered on, resulting in a high temperature for the control board 4. Effective cooling of the control board 4 is necessary to ensure its stability during operation. Current technology primarily utilizes the rotation of the RV air conditioner's built-in fan to dissipate heat from the control board 4. However, this cooling method is ineffective, especially in high-temperature summer environments, where the cooling effect weakens, impacting the performance of the control board 4.

[0067] Therefore, in step S100, the radiator 3 is immersed in the cooling medium of the cooling unit 2, and the cooling medium is used to assist in cooling the radiator 3. The temperature T of the radiator 3 can be obtained using the temperature detection unit 22 in the cooling unit 2.

[0068] After obtaining the detected temperature T of radiator 3, in step S200, based on the relationship between the detected temperature T and the preset temperature threshold, the water level of the cooling medium in cooling unit 2 is flexibly controlled logically, and the operating status of the RV air conditioner is also logically controlled. It should be noted that the preset temperature threshold can be flexibly set based on the driver's experience, or the RV air conditioner manufacturer can flexibly set the preset temperature threshold based on theoretical values. In this example, the preset temperature threshold can include, but is not limited to, 45°, 50°, 55°, 60°, etc. Of course, the preset temperature threshold can also be other temperature values, which are not specifically limited here.

[0069] During the logic control of the cooling medium's water level, when the detected temperature T of radiator 3 is less than the preset temperature threshold, it indicates that the temperature of radiator 3 is relatively low. At this time, the water level of the cooling medium in cooling unit 2 can be reduced, or the RV air conditioner's built-in fan can be used to cool radiator 3 directly to ensure the working performance of the control board 4. While adjusting the cooling medium's water level, the RV air conditioner can remain running to improve the driver's driving experience.

[0070] When the detected temperature T of the heatsink 3 is greater than or equal to the preset temperature threshold, it indicates that the temperature of the heatsink 3 is relatively high. This means that the operating temperature of the control motherboard 4 is high, and the high temperature will affect the working state of the control motherboard 4. At this time, the water level of the cooling medium in the cooling unit 2 can be increased, thereby increasing the contact area between the cooling medium and the heatsink 3. This allows the cooling medium to assist in cooling the heatsink 3, thereby reducing the operating temperature of the control motherboard 4, effectively ensuring the control performance of the control motherboard 4, and extending the service life of the control motherboard.

[0071] like Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the preset temperature threshold includes a first threshold and a second threshold. The first threshold is less than the second threshold. In one example, the first threshold may include 45°C, and the second threshold may include 60°C. It should be noted that the first threshold can also be any value other than 45°C, and the second threshold can also be any value other than 60°C, as long as the value of the first threshold is less than the value of the second threshold. In this example and the following embodiments, a first threshold of 45°C and a second threshold of 60°C are used as examples for illustration.

[0072] In step S200, the detected temperature T is compared with the first threshold or the second threshold, and the water level of the cooling medium and the operating status of the RV air conditioner are flexibly controlled according to the comparison result.

[0073] When the detected temperature T is less than the first threshold, i.e. T < 45°, it indicates that the temperature of the radiator 3 is relatively low, and the operating temperature of the control board 4 is also relatively low. At this time, the water level of the cooling medium and the operation of the RV air conditioner are processed.

[0074] In one example, the first process may include keeping the water level of the cooling medium constant while keeping the RV's air conditioning running.

[0075] In this example, when the detected temperature T is less than the first threshold, the RV air conditioner can directly use its built-in fan to cool the radiator 3. At this time, the working performance of the control board 4 can also be effectively guaranteed. Meanwhile, the drive water pump 8, the first switch 9 and the second switch 11 in the RV air conditioner are all in the off state to reduce the energy consumption of the RV air conditioner.

[0076] When the detected temperature T is greater than or equal to the first threshold and less than the second threshold, it indicates that the temperature of the radiator 3 is relatively high, that is, the operating temperature of the control board 4 is high. At this time, it is necessary to cool down the control board 4. Therefore, when 45° ≤ detected temperature T < 60°, the second process is performed on the water level of the cooling medium and the operation of the RV air conditioner.

[0077] In some embodiments, the process of performing the second process may include the following operations: increasing the water level of the cooling medium to increase the contact area between the radiator 3 and the cooling medium, and the RV air conditioner continues to operate.

[0078] In one example, the step of increasing the water level of the cooling medium to increase the contact area between the radiator and the cooling medium includes the following operations:

[0079] The main board 4 controls the first switch 9 to open (while the second switch 11 is closed), thus making the first pipe 7 conductive. Then, the main board 4 controls the water pump 8 to open, and the water pump 8 delivers the cooling medium (such as condensate) from the condensate collection unit 5 to the cooling unit 2, thereby increasing the water level of the cooling medium in the cooling unit 2. This increases the contact area between the radiator 3 and the cooling medium, immersing the radiator 3 in the low-temperature cooling medium for cooling.

[0080] During the cooling medium transport process in the condensate collection unit 5, the first water level detection unit 21 starts to operate, and when the water level of the cooling medium exceeds the limit threshold, the water pump 8 is driven to stop operating, and the first switch 9 is turned off to prevent the water level of the cooling medium in the cooling unit 2 from being too high, which would affect the use of the radiator 3 or the control board 4.

[0081] When the detected temperature T is greater than or equal to the second threshold, it indicates that the temperature of the radiator 3 is too high, and at this time, the water temperature of the cooling medium in the cooling unit 2 is also approaching the second threshold. In other words, the cooling medium in the cooling unit 2 cannot effectively cool the radiator 3 and the control board 4. Therefore, when the detected temperature T ≥ 60°, the third process is performed on the water level of the cooling medium and the operation of the RV air conditioner.

[0082] In some embodiments, the process of performing the third processing may include the following operations: the first water level detection unit 21 in the cooling unit 2 stops operating (at this time, the first water level detection unit 21 no longer transmits the water level over-limit signal), while the drive water pump 8 and the first switch 9 continue to be kept in the open state to continue to increase the water level height of the cooling medium in the cooling unit 2, that is, to continue to increase the capacity of the cooling medium, so that more low-temperature cooling medium enters the cooling unit 2 and soaks more volume of heat sink 3, thereby providing auxiliary heat dissipation for heat sink 3, effectively reducing the operating temperature of the control motherboard 4, ensuring the working performance of the control motherboard 4, and extending the service life of the control motherboard 4.

[0083] An overflow port (not shown in the figure) is provided on the cooling unit 2. The overflow port is located above the highest water level height that the first water level detection unit 21 is allowed to detect. It should be noted that the overflow port is located at the highest position that the heat sink 3 is allowed to be immersed in the cooling medium, so as to prevent excessively high cooling medium from affecting the use of the heat sink 3 or the control board 4.

[0084] During the third process, as the water level of the cooling medium continues to rise, when the water level exceeds the overflow port, the excess cooling medium will flow out from the overflow port, thereby preventing the cooling medium from affecting the use of the heat sink 3 or the control board 4.

[0085] On the other hand, during the third processing, when the temperature detection unit 22 detects that the detection temperature T of the radiator 3 drops below the second threshold, that is, T < 60°, the control motherboard 4 shuts down the drive water pump 8 to reduce unnecessary energy consumption of the RV air conditioner.

[0086] Reference Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, during the execution of either the second or third process, the RV air conditioning control method further includes the following operations:

[0087] The water level of the condensate in the condensate collection unit 5 is detected in real time using the second water level detection unit 51.

[0088] When the water level in the condensate collection unit 5 is lower than the preset water level threshold, it indicates that the water level in the condensate collection unit 5 is low. At this time, the flow rate of condensate delivered by the driving water pump 8 is insufficient, resulting in poor cooling effect of the condensate on the radiator 3, which cannot meet the cooling requirements of the control motherboard 4. Therefore, the first switch 9 can be turned off by controlling the motherboard 4, while the second switch 11 is turned on. The second pipe 10 and part of the first pipe 7 are used to connect the cooling unit 2 and the water storage tank 6. The driving water pump 8 delivers the low-temperature cooling water in the water storage tank 6 to the cooling unit 2, and uses the cooling water to quickly cool the radiator 3.

[0089] Reference Figure 3 As shown, during the process of turning on the second switch 11, the control method of the RV air conditioner also includes the following operations:

[0090] When the flow rate of the cooling medium in the driving water pump 8 is lower than a preset threshold, the second or third processing procedure is repeated a predetermined number of times to ensure that the water level of the cooling medium in the cooling unit 2 meets the cooling requirements of the radiator 3. The flow rate of the driving water pump 8 can be monitored in real time using a flow meter. It should be noted that when the flow rate of the driving water pump 8 is lower than the preset threshold during the second processing, the second processing procedure is repeated a predetermined number of times. Similarly, when the flow rate of the driving water pump 8 is lower than the preset threshold during the third processing, the third processing procedure is repeated a predetermined number of times.

[0091] In one example, the preset threshold may include, but is not limited to, 0.2 L / min. The predetermined number of times may include, but is not limited to, three times. It should be noted that the operation of the three predetermined number of times is executed three times consecutively. Specifically, when the flow rate of the driving water pump 8 is lower than 0.2 L / min, it indicates that the capacity of the cooling water in the water storage tank 6 may be insufficient and cannot meet the heat dissipation requirements of the radiator 3. Therefore, the operation of the second processing step is repeated three times or the operation of the third processing step is repeated three times.

[0092] If the flow rate of the drive water pump 8 is still lower than the preset threshold after a predetermined number of repetitions of the second or third processing, it indicates that there is too little condensate in the condensate collection unit 5 and cooling water in the water storage tank 6, which cannot meet the heat dissipation requirements of the subsequent radiator 3. Therefore, other processing is required for the operation status of the RV air conditioner.

[0093] During other processing of the RV air conditioner's operating status, all structural components of the RV air conditioner, except for the temperature detection unit 22, are shut down. At this time, the temperature detection unit 22 can be used to obtain the current instantaneous temperature of the radiator 3, which represents the temperature value of the radiator 3 at the current moment in the second or third processing step. Then, based on the instantaneous temperature, the operating status of the RV air conditioner is controlled.

[0094] When the instantaneous temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature, it indicates that the operating temperature of the radiator 3 and the control board 4 is still in a relatively high temperature range. This means that the radiator 3 and the control board 4 still need to perform heat dissipation. However, the cooling water capacity in the RV's built-in water tank 6 is small, as is the condensate collection unit 5. Therefore, the control board 4 can activate the RV air conditioner's water shortage alarm to remind the driver or passengers to replenish the cooling water in the water tank 6 in a timely manner. In one example, the first temperature may include 45°C, or it may be any temperature value between 40°C and 50°C other than 45°C. This example uses 45°C as the first temperature for illustration.

[0095] When the instantaneous temperature is greater than or equal to 45°C, the RV air conditioner is still in operation. This means that condensate is continuously generated in the condensate collection unit 5, and a small amount or part of the condensate is continuously transported to the cooling unit 2 to assist in cooling the radiator 3. However, it should be noted that the amount of condensate generated at this stage may not be sufficient to meet the heat dissipation requirements of the radiator 3. Therefore, during the operation of the RV air conditioner, relying solely on the RV's built-in fan and a small amount of condensate, the temperature of the control board 4 will continue to rise.

[0096] As the temperature of the control board 4 continues to rise, when the instantaneous temperature exceeds the second temperature and the fault alarm is still not cleared, that is, when the driver or passengers have not replenished enough cooling water in the water tank 6, the RV air conditioner stops operating to effectively protect the control board 4, effectively reduce the failure rate of the control board 4 due to excessive temperature, and thus improve the service life of the control board 4.

[0097] In the above embodiment, by monitoring the temperature value of the radiator 3 of the control motherboard 4 of the RV air conditioner and the water level change of the cooling medium in the cooling unit 2, the auxiliary cooling process of the radiator 3 is realized by controlling the control logic of the motherboard 4 and linking the actions of various components in the RV air conditioner. At the same time, the motherboard 4 is kept in a suitable temperature range for efficient operation, which effectively ensures the operating performance of the motherboard 4, reduces the failure rate of the motherboard 4, and improves the service life of the RV air conditioner.

[0098] The technical solution of the present invention has been described above with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of protection of the present invention is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principles of the present invention, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after such changes or substitutions will all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method for a motorhome air conditioner, the motorhome air conditioner comprising a cooling unit and a radiator, the radiator being used to dissipate heat from the control mainboard of the motorhome air conditioner, wherein, The radiator is housed within the cooling unit, so that the radiator is assisted in cooling by the cooling medium within the cooling unit. The RV air conditioner includes a condensate collection unit, which is connected to the cooling unit via a first pipe. A drive water pump and a first switch are installed on the first pipe, wherein the first switch is located between the drive water pump and the condensate collection unit. A first water level detection unit is installed within the cooling unit, which is used to detect the water level of the cooling medium. The RV air conditioner control method includes the following steps: The temperature of the radiator during the operation of the RV air conditioner is obtained; Based on the relationship between the detected temperature and the preset temperature threshold, the water level of the cooling medium and the operating status of the RV air conditioner are selectively controlled, wherein the preset temperature threshold includes a first threshold and a second threshold, and the first threshold is less than the second threshold; When the detected temperature is less than the first threshold, a first process is performed on the water level of the cooling medium and the operation of the RV air conditioner, including: when the detected temperature is less than the first threshold, the water level of the cooling medium remains unchanged, and the RV air conditioner continues to operate; When the detected temperature is greater than or equal to the first threshold but less than the second threshold, a second process is performed on the water level of the cooling medium and the operation of the RV air conditioner, including: when the detected temperature is greater than or equal to the first threshold but less than the second threshold, the water level of the cooling medium is increased to increase the contact area between the radiator and the cooling medium, and the RV air conditioner continues to operate; "The water level of the cooling medium increases to increase the contact area between the radiator and the cooling medium, and the RV air conditioner continues to operate" includes: the drive water pump and the first switch are started to transport the cooling medium in the condensate collection unit to the cooling unit, thereby increasing the water level of the cooling medium in the cooling unit; The first water level detection unit starts running, and when the water level of the cooling medium exceeds the limit threshold, the drive water pump stops running and the first switch is turned off; When the detected temperature is greater than or equal to the second threshold, a third process is performed on the water level of the cooling medium and the operation of the RV air conditioner, including: when the detected temperature is greater than or equal to the second threshold, the first water level detection unit stops operating, and the drive water pump and the first switch continue to be kept in the open state to continue to increase the water level of the cooling medium.

2. The control method for RV air conditioning according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooling unit is equipped with an overflow port; The step of "stopping the first water level detection unit and continuing to keep the drive pump and the first switch in the open state to continue increasing the water level of the cooling medium" includes: When the water level of the cooling medium exceeds the overflow port, the excess cooling medium flows out through the overflow port. When the detected temperature drops below the second threshold, the drive water pump is turned off.

3. The control method for RV air conditioning according to claim 2, characterized in that, The RV air conditioner also includes a water storage tank, which is connected to the cooling unit via a second pipe, and a second switch is provided on the second pipe. The condensate collection unit is equipped with a second water level detection unit; The method for controlling the RV air conditioner also includes the following steps: The second water level detection unit is used to detect the water level of the condensate in the condensate collection unit in real time. During either the second or the third process, when the water level of the condensate in the condensate collection unit is lower than a preset water level threshold, the first switch is turned off and the second switch is turned on to deliver the cooling medium to the cooling unit through the water storage tank.

4. The control method for RV air conditioning according to claim 3, characterized in that, During or after the step of "delivering the cooling medium to the cooling unit through the water storage tank", the control method for the RV air conditioner further includes the following steps: During the second switch opening process, when the flow rate of the cooling medium in the driving water pump is lower than a preset threshold, the second processing or the third processing process is repeated a predetermined number of times. After a predetermined number of the second or third processing steps, the real-time flow rate of the cooling medium in the driving water pump is obtained. When the real-time flow rate is still lower than the preset threshold, the instantaneous temperature of the radiator is obtained. The operating status of the RV air conditioner is controlled based on the real-time temperature.

5. The control method for a motorhome air conditioner according to claim 4, characterized in that, The cooling unit is equipped with a temperature detection unit, which is used to detect the real-time temperature of the radiator. The step of "controlling the operating status of the RV air conditioner based on the instantaneous temperature" includes: When the instantaneous temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature, the RV air conditioner will start a water shortage fault alarm. When the instantaneous temperature is greater than the second temperature and the water shortage alarm is still not cleared, the RV air conditioner stops operating.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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