Air conditioner central controller, air conditioner, air conditioning system and communication compatibility method

Abstract

The application provides an air conditioner cluster controller, an air conditioner, an air conditioner system and a communication compatibility method, and relates to the technical field of air conditioners. The air conditioner cluster controller comprises a first controller and a first communication module. The first controller is configured to: in a first working period, find, through the first communication module, a target air conditioner in the air conditioner system that can establish a long connection with the air conditioner cluster controller; and in a second working period, acquire, through the first communication module, the support capability of the target air conditioner for different communication modes, and execute a corresponding communication mode configuration strategy according to the support capability of the target air conditioner for different communication modes. The problem that the existing air conditioner cluster controller cannot actively adjust the communication rate, so that the air conditioner system after speedup can only perform low-speed communication is solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and in particular to an air conditioning controller, an air conditioner, an air conditioning system, and a communication compatibility method. Background Technology

[0002] Current air conditioning systems use low-speed, bus-based communication, primarily involving air conditioners and central controllers. With the increasing demand for more air conditioners, communication pressure is also rising, making the existing low-speed communication insufficient to meet the needs of the growing number of indoor units. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the communication speed of the entire air conditioning system. An air conditioning central controller is a device that can control multiple air conditioners. During the communication configuration process of an air conditioning system, the central controller needs to perform corresponding communication configurations with the air conditioners in the system to achieve control over them.

[0003] In related technologies, existing air conditioning controllers cannot actively adjust the communication rate of the air conditioning system, resulting in the air conditioning system, even after speeding up, still only being able to communicate at low speed. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides an air conditioning central controller, an air conditioner, an air conditioning system, and a communication compatibility method, aiming to solve the problem that existing air conditioning central controllers cannot actively adjust the communication rate, thus causing the air conditioning system to still only be able to perform low-speed communication even after the speed is increased.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention is implemented as follows:

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide an air conditioning central controller, which includes: a first controller and a first communication module;

[0007] The first controller is configured as follows:

[0008] During the first working cycle, the first communication module is used to locate the target air conditioner in the air conditioning system that can establish a long connection with the air conditioning central controller;

[0009] During the second working cycle, the first communication module is used to obtain the target air conditioner's support capability for different communication modes, and the corresponding communication mode configuration strategy is executed according to the target air conditioner's support capability for different communication modes.

[0010] The technical solution provided by this invention offers at least the following advantages: First, the air conditioning controller actively searches for target air conditioners in the air conditioning system with which long-term connections can be established, eliminating the need for manual user settings or operations, thereby reducing user costs and operational complexity. Second, by acquiring the target air conditioner's support capabilities for different communication modes, the air conditioning controller can intelligently execute corresponding communication mode configuration strategies based on the characteristics of the target air conditioner, thus improving communication efficiency and stability. Finally, the air conditioning controller can dynamically adapt to different communication modes, achieving better performance and stability in various application scenarios, thereby enhancing its applicability and reliability.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first controller is further configured to:

[0012] In response to the power-on signal, a first-level signal is output, and the first communication module is controlled to generate a low-speed communication mode start message based on the first-level signal;

[0013] The low-speed communication mode start message is broadcast to the air conditioner in the air conditioning system through the first communication module.

[0014] Receive the communication response message from the air conditioner and determine the target air conditioner based on the device code carried in the communication response message.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first controller is further configured to:

[0016] In response to the protocol check signal, a communication rate query request message is generated and sent to the target air conditioner through the first communication module;

[0017] The first communication module receives communication rate query result messages from each target air conditioner and parses the communication rate query result messages to obtain the communication rate controllers supported by each target air conditioner.

[0018] Based on the communication rates supported by each target air conditioner, determine the support capability of each target air conditioner for different communication modes.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first controller is further configured to:

[0020] When not all target air conditioners support high-speed communication, low-speed communication is used for data exchange.

[0021] If all target air conditioners support high-speed communication mode, perform the communication mode switching procedure.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first controller is configured to:

[0023] Generate a handover preparation message and send the handover preparation message to the target air conditioner through the first communication module;

[0024] In response to the mode switching signal, a second-level signal is output, and the first communication module is controlled to generate a high-speed communication mode start message according to the second-level signal. The high-speed communication mode start message is then sent to the target air conditioner through the first communication module.

[0025] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention provide an air conditioner, which includes: a second controller and a second communication module;

[0026] The second controller is configured as follows:

[0027] During the first working cycle, the system receives the low-speed communication mode start message sent by the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module, and after parsing the low-speed communication mode start message, generates a communication response message and sends the communication response message to the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module.

[0028] During the second working cycle, the second communication module receives the communication rate query request message sent by the air conditioning central controller, and after parsing the communication rate query request message, generates a communication rate query result message, and sends the communication rate query result message to the air conditioning central controller through the second communication module.

[0029] In some embodiments, the second controller is further configured to:

[0030] The second communication module receives the switching preparation message sent by the air conditioning central controller, and after parsing the switching preparation message, it enters the communication mode switching preparation stage.

[0031] The second communication module receives the high-speed communication mode start message sent by the air conditioner central controller, and after parsing the high-speed communication mode start message, it uses the high-speed communication mode to perform data interaction.

[0032] Thirdly, embodiments of the present invention provide an air conditioning system, including an air conditioning central controller according to the first embodiment and an air conditioner according to the second embodiment.

[0033] Fourthly, embodiments of the present invention provide a communication compatibility method applied to an air conditioning central controller according to the first aspect of the embodiments, the method comprising:

[0034] During the first working cycle, the air conditioning central controller uses the first communication module to locate the target air conditioner in the air conditioning system that can establish a long-term connection with the air conditioning central controller.

[0035] During the second working cycle, the air conditioning central controller obtains the target air conditioner's support capability for different communication modes through the first communication module, and executes the corresponding communication mode configuration strategy according to the target air conditioner's support capability for different communication modes.

[0036] Fifthly, embodiments of the present invention provide another communication-compatible method, applied to the air conditioner of the second aspect of the embodiments, the method comprising:

[0037] During the first working cycle, the air conditioner receives the low-speed communication mode start message sent by the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module, and after parsing the low-speed communication mode start message, generates a communication response message and sends the communication response message to the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module.

[0038] During the second working cycle, the air conditioner receives a communication rate query request message sent by the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module, and after parsing the communication rate query request message, generates a communication rate query result message, and sends the communication rate query result message to the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module.

[0039] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on any of the aforementioned devices, cause the devices to perform any of the aforementioned communication-compatible methods.

[0040] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a chip, including: a processor and a memory; the memory is used to store computer execution instructions, the processor is connected to the memory, and when the chip is running, the processor executes the computer execution instructions stored in the memory to cause the chip to perform any of the above-described communication compatible methods.

[0041] Eighthly, embodiments of the present invention provide a computer program product containing instructions that, when run on any of the aforementioned devices, cause the device to execute any of the aforementioned communication-compatible methods.

[0042] The beneficial effects of aspects two through eight above can be referred to in any implementation of aspect one, and will not be repeated here. Based on the implementations provided in the above aspects, the present invention can be further combined to provide more implementations. Attached Figure Description

[0043] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0044] Figure 1 This is a functional block diagram of the air conditioner central controller in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 2 This is a functional block diagram of the air conditioner in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a communication compatibility method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of another communication compatibility method in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of another communication compatibility method in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of another communication compatibility method in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of another communication compatibility method in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of another communication compatibility method in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of another communication compatibility method in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a communication rate switching configuration in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 11 This is another schematic diagram of the communication rate switching configuration in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Reference numerals: 10, Air conditioning central controller; 11, First controller; 12, First communication module; 20, Air conditioner; 21, Second controller; 22, Second communication module. Detailed Implementation

[0056] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0057] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0058] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances. Furthermore, when describing pipelines, the terms "connected" and "linked" as used in this invention have the meaning of enabling conduction. The specific meaning needs to be understood in conjunction with the context.

[0059] In embodiments of the present invention, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in embodiments of the present invention should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0060] As mentioned in the background section, when an existing central controller is installed in a new air conditioning system, it may not be able to acquire the communication capabilities of all the air conditioners due to the large number of units and the different communication speeds and protocols used by each unit. Because it doesn't know the specific communication speeds supported by each air conditioner, the central controller will control all units in the system to use a low-speed communication mode for data exchange to ensure normal system communication and avoid incompatibility issues. This results in a lower overall system communication speed.

[0061] To address this problem, the inventors proposed the following technical concept: by employing adaptive communication speed switching technology, it is possible to be compatible with air conditioners with different communication rates. The central controller can automatically identify the communication rate of the air conditioner without manual intervention, thereby achieving adaptive switching of communication speed. This improves the communication speed and compatibility of the air conditioning system, enhancing the user experience and comfort. The central controller provided by this invention achieves communication compatibility with air conditioners of different rates, avoiding the problem of reduced overall communication speed due to incompatibility, and improving the communication efficiency of the air conditioning system and the user experience.

[0062] The specific solution of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0063] like Figure 1 The functional block diagram of the air conditioner central controller shown in this embodiment of the invention includes a first controller 11 and a first communication module 12.

[0064] The first controller 11 is connected to the first communication module 12. The first controller 11 is used to generate messages, and the first communication module 12 is used to send and receive messages.

[0065] like Figure 2 The diagram shows the functional modules of an air conditioner. Here, an air conditioner refers to an air conditioner. The air conditioner 20 in this embodiment of the invention includes a second controller 21 and a second communication module 22.

[0066] The second controller 21 is connected to the second communication module 22. The second communication module 22 is used to receive and send messages, and the second controller 21 is used to parse the messages and generate messages based on the parsing results.

[0067] This invention provides a communication compatibility method, such as... Figure 3 As shown, this method, applied to an air conditioning central controller, includes the following steps:

[0068] S101: During the first working cycle, the air conditioning central controller uses the first communication module to locate the target air conditioner in the air conditioning system that can establish a long-term connection with the air conditioning central controller.

[0069] First, when a central controller is set up in a brand-new air conditioning system, the communication capabilities and status of the air conditioners in that system are unknown to the user. The system may contain air conditioners that only support low-speed communication (older products) or those that support high-speed communication (newer products). Therefore, to configure the communication of this air conditioning system, the central controller needs time to establish a stable long-term communication connection with the air conditioners. The time required to establish this connection is called the first working cycle. A long-term connection means that after a successful connection is established, the central controller and the air conditioners can continuously exchange data until one of them closes the connection or the connection is abnormally disconnected.

[0070] Regardless of whether the air conditioner is an upgraded version that supports high-speed communication, it can still support low-speed communication. Therefore, in the first working cycle, the central controller needs to establish a stable long-term connection with the air conditioner and identify the air conditioner that can establish a long-term connection with the central controller as the target air conditioner. This process can also be understood as the central controller searching for available air conditioners in the air conditioning system.

[0071] S102: During the second working cycle, the air conditioning central controller obtains the target air conditioner's support capability for different communication modes through the first communication module, and executes the corresponding communication mode configuration strategy according to the target air conditioner's support capability for different communication modes.

[0072] After the central controller completes the search for available air conditioners within the air conditioning system and establishes a stable long connection, it can use protocol checks to obtain the current air conditioner's support capabilities for different communication modes, thereby determining whether the air conditioning system has the necessary hardware conditions for rate switching.

[0073] Protocol checking refers to the process of detecting received data packets during communication, determining the communication protocol used, and then parsing and processing that protocol. The central controller can use protocol checking to detect the communication protocol currently used by the air conditioner, determine the supported communication modes, and thus select the appropriate communication configuration strategy.

[0074] The aforementioned dynamic communication mode selection method allows for adjustments to the communication configuration strategy based on actual conditions, thereby improving communication efficiency and stability. It avoids communication errors and data loss caused by using unsuitable communication modes, offering better adaptability, scalability, and reliability. Protocol inspection can detect the communication protocol currently used by the air conditioner and determine its supported communication modes, thus selecting the corresponding communication configuration strategy and determining whether the air conditioning system meets the necessary hardware conditions for rate switching. Compared to a fixed communication configuration strategy, dynamic communication mode selection is more advantageous, better adapting to changes brought about by air conditioner product upgrades.

[0075] In this invention, the central controller can determine the target air conditioner in the first working cycle, and in the second working cycle, the central controller can obtain the target air conditioner's support capability for different communication modes, and execute the corresponding communication mode configuration strategy accordingly, thereby realizing rapid automatic switching of communication modes. Thus, while ensuring the communication compatibility of the air conditioning system, the communication configuration of the air conditioning system can be completed without user intervention.

[0076] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, S101 specifically includes:

[0077] S1011: In response to the power-on signal, output a first level signal, and control the first communication module to generate a low-speed communication mode start message according to the first level signal;

[0078] S1012: Broadcast the low-speed communication mode start message to the air conditioner in the air conditioning system through the first communication module;

[0079] S1013: Receive the communication response message from the air conditioner and determine the target air conditioner based on the device code carried in the communication response message.

[0080] Firstly, during the first working cycle, after the first controller receives the power-on signal or reset signal triggered by the user or system, it outputs a first-level signal through a preset GPIO interface. The GPIO interface is a general-purpose input / output interface used to control the level state. The first-level signal can be a low-level signal or a high-level signal. After receiving the first-level signal sent by the first controller, the first communication module generates a low-speed communication mode start message. The low-speed communication mode start message is used to instruct the air conditioner to operate in low-speed communication mode.

[0081] Then, the air conditioning controller broadcasts a low-speed communication mode start message via its first communication module. This message contains a specific identifier for the air conditioning controller. The controller then listens for response messages from other air conditioners in the system. Upon receiving a response message, the controller verifies whether it contains a predefined specific identifier. If the response message contains the specific identifier, it indicates that the message originated from a target air conditioner, and the controller establishes a long-lived connection with that target air conditioner. Subsequently, the controller continuously communicates with the target air conditioner and records its information.

[0082] In this way, the air conditioning central controller can identify the target air conditioner with which it has established a long-term connection, enabling the management and control of the target equipment in the air conditioning system. At the same time, this method also avoids situations where the air conditioning central controller communicates with unavailable or unauthorized air conditioners, thereby ensuring the reliability and security of the system.

[0083] It's important to note that a normal data link needs to be established between the air conditioner central controller and the air conditioner to control the air conditioner. The air conditioner central controller has a time limit for waiting to receive response messages. To prevent the central controller from waiting in vain, a waiting time threshold can be set. This threshold can be 3 minutes. That is, if the central controller does not receive a communication response message from the air conditioner within 3 minutes after sending the low-speed communication mode start message, it means that a normal data link cannot be established between the central controller and the air conditioner. In this case, it's because the air conditioner in the air conditioning system is already operating in high-speed communication mode for data exchange. Therefore, the central controller needs to actively switch its communication rate. Since the initial search used a low-speed rate, it needs to switch to a high-speed rate. Then, the central controller will switch to the high-speed communication underlying driver because it can transmit data faster and improve communication efficiency. If a normal communication still cannot be established after switching to the high-speed communication underlying driver, the user will be prompted that the air conditioner search has failed, and the user needs to actively trigger a new round of search.

[0084] This method improves communication efficiency between the air conditioner central controller and the air conditioner, and allows for timely handling of communication anomalies, preventing unnecessary inconvenience to users. By setting waiting time thresholds and implementing automatic communication rate switching strategies, communication efficiency and stability can be significantly enhanced.

[0085] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, S102 specifically includes:

[0086] S1021: In response to the protocol check signal, generate a communication rate query request message and send the communication rate query request message to the target air conditioner through the first communication module.

[0087] After establishing a normal data link between the air conditioner central controller and the air conditioners, it is necessary to obtain the communication rate support information of all air conditioners to ensure communication compatibility between the central controller and the air conditioners. This can be achieved by sending a communication rate query request message to the air conditioners.

[0088] In practical implementation, after the outdoor unit detects the protocol check signal, it generates a communication rate query request message to obtain information on the air conditioner's support for different communication rates. The process of generating the communication rate query request message can be described as follows:

[0089] First, determine the message type. According to the communication protocol, determine the message type of the communication rate query request message, which is usually a predefined value or identifier. Next, add a header. According to the communication protocol, add the header portion, including information such as the destination address, source address, and message length. The destination address is the address of the air conditioner, and the source address is the address of the outdoor unit. Then, add the data portion. According to the communication protocol, add the data portion of the message, including parameter information related to the communication rate query request. For example, it may include the query request command word, the starting address of the query, and the query length. Next, add a checksum. To ensure the integrity of the message, a checksum is added, usually a checksum or CRC code, used to check whether the message has been tampered with or transmitted incorrectly. Finally, assemble the message. Assemble the header, data portion, and checksum portion to generate a complete communication rate query request message.

[0090] As an example, assuming the air conditioner's address is "01", the outdoor unit's address is "10", the predefined communication rate query request message type is "02", the query's starting address is "0001", the query length is "02", and the checksum is "AB", then the process of generating the communication rate query request message can be as follows:

[0091] Determine message type: Set the message type to "02" to indicate a communication rate query request message.

[0092] Add a message header: Set the destination address to "01" to indicate that it is sent to the air conditioner; set the source address to "10" to indicate that it comes from the outdoor unit; set the message length to "06" to indicate that the total length of the message header and data is 6 bytes.

[0093] Add data section: Set the command word of the query request to "01" to query the communication rate of the air conditioner; set the starting address of the query to "0001" to start the query from the first node of the air conditioner; set the length of the query to "02" to query the communication rate of two nodes.

[0094] Add a checksum: Add the values ​​of all bytes in the header and data sections to get the hexadecimal number "37", then invert it to get the checksum "AB".

[0095] Assemble the message: Arrange the message header, data part and checksum part in sequence to assemble a complete message, resulting in the hexadecimal string "100100060201000102AB", where each space represents a byte interval.

[0096] After generating the communication rate query request message, the outdoor unit can broadcast the message to all air conditioners in the multi-split air conditioning system through the first communication module.

[0097] S1022: Receive the communication rate query result message from each target air conditioner through the first communication module, and parse the communication rate query result message to obtain the communication rate controller supported by each air conditioner.

[0098] During the active acquisition of supported communication rates, the central controller needs to receive the communication rate query result message from the air conditioner through the first communication module, and parse it to obtain the communication rates supported by the air conditioner. Specifically, this process typically includes the following steps:

[0099] First, the central controller needs to receive the communication rate query result message returned from the air conditioner. This process is typically achieved through the air conditioner's response to the communication rate query request message. When the air conditioner receives the communication rate query request message sent by the central controller, it parses it and generates a corresponding communication rate query result message, which contains information about the communication rates supported by the air conditioner. This response message is then sent back to the central controller by the air conditioner and received by the central controller.

[0100] Next, the central controller needs to parse the received communication rate query result message to obtain the communication rate information supported by the air conditioner. This process is usually achieved by parsing the data portion of the response message, which contains information about the communication rates supported by the air conditioner, such as the maximum and minimum communication rates supported by the air conditioner.

[0101] It is important to note that during the parsing of the communication rate query result message, the central controller needs to verify the message to ensure its integrity and correctness. This process is typically achieved by verifying the message header, data portion, and checksum. If the verification fails, it indicates that the message may have been tampered with or transmitted incorrectly, and the central controller needs to discard the message and resend the communication rate query request message.

[0102] S1023: Determine the support capability of each target air conditioner for different communication modes based on the communication rate supported by each air conditioner.

[0103] After obtaining the communication rates supported by each air conditioner in the multi-split system, the central controller can determine its support capability for different communication modes based on these rates. Different communication modes have different communication rate requirements; if an air conditioner's communication rate is insufficient to support a particular communication mode, then that air conditioner cannot support that mode. Therefore, by understanding the communication rates supported by each air conditioner, its support capability for different communication modes can be determined.

[0104] For example, if an air conditioner supports a communication rate of 48000bps, it can support both high-speed and low-speed communication modes. However, if the air conditioner's communication rate is only 9600bps, it can only support low-speed communication mode and cannot support high-speed communication mode.

[0105] Therefore, when determining the support capability of a target air conditioner for different communication modes, it is necessary to analyze it in conjunction with the actual communication rate of the air conditioner. Only when the communication rate of the air conditioner meets the requirements of the communication mode can the air conditioner's support capability for that communication mode be determined.

[0106] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, S102 specifically also includes:

[0107] S1024: When not all target air conditioners support high-speed communication, a low-speed communication mode is used for data interaction.

[0108] After determining the support capabilities of each target air conditioner in the air conditioning system for different communication modes, it's possible to ascertain whether the air conditioning system possesses the necessary hardware conditions for rate switching. If all air conditioners support high-speed communication mode, then high-speed communication mode can be directly configured to achieve faster data transmission. However, if some air conditioners do not support high-speed communication mode, using high-speed communication mode will prevent these non-high-speed air conditioners from functioning properly, causing the entire system to malfunction. In this case, a low-speed communication mode must be used for data transmission to ensure the normal operation of the entire system.

[0109] As an example, suppose an air conditioning system has three air conditioners, numbered A, B, and C. When the central controller determines through communication rate query results that air conditioners A and B support high-speed communication mode, while air conditioner C does not, it means that the air conditioning system does not have the necessary hardware conditions for rate switching. Therefore, to ensure system compatibility, the air conditioning system should continue to use the low-speed communication mode for data exchange.

[0110] S1025: If the air conditioner has the ability to support high-speed communication mode, perform the communication mode switching procedure.

[0111] In an air conditioning system, if all air conditioners support high-speed communication, the system possesses the necessary hardware for rate switching, allowing the central controller to execute the communication mode switching procedure. This procedure aims to switch the communication mode in the air conditioning system from low-speed to high-speed, thereby improving the overall data transmission efficiency and response speed. Specifically, when executing the communication mode switching procedure, the central controller sends a high-speed communication mode activation message to the air conditioners, instructing them to transmit data in high-speed communication mode. Upon receiving the message, the air conditioners switch to high-speed communication mode and begin transmitting data according to this mode.

[0112] Therefore, the purpose of the communication mode switching step is to improve the performance and response speed of the air conditioning system. When all air conditioners support high-speed communication mode, faster data transmission and response can be achieved through mode switching.

[0113] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 As shown, S1025 specifically includes:

[0114] S10251: Generate a switching preparation message and send the switching preparation message to the target air conditioner through the first communication module.

[0115] When the air conditioning system has the hardware capabilities for high-speed communication mode switching, the central controller needs to notify all air conditioners in the system to switch from low-speed communication mode to high-speed communication mode. This signifies the entire air conditioning system entering the rate switching preparation phase. Therefore, the first communication module sends a switching preparation message to the air conditioners to instruct them to prepare for mode switching. To prevent accidental events such as sudden power outages, the status information of each air conditioner needs to be stored in the central controller's programmable storage device, allowing the system to restore its previous state after a power outage or restart.

[0116] As an example, when the central controller is powered on or reset, it first reads the previous status information of each air conditioner stored in the central controller's storage device. If the previous status information is not saved in the programmable memory, the low-speed communication mode is used by default. If the previous status information is saved in the programmable memory, it is determined whether the high-speed communication underlying driver needs to be activated based on this information. For example, if the previous status information indicates that all air conditioners support the high-speed communication mode, then the high-speed communication underlying driver is activated.

[0117] By storing the air conditioner's status information in a programmable memory and reading this information to activate the underlying driver when the central controller is powered on or reset, we can achieve fast, automatic communication mode switching and restore the previous state after the device is powered off or restarted. This helps improve the reliability and stability of the air conditioning system.

[0118] S10252: In response to the mode switching signal, outputs a second level signal, and controls the first communication module to generate a high-speed communication mode start message according to the second level signal, and sends the high-speed communication mode start message to the air conditioner through the first communication module.

[0119] After sending the switchover preparation message, the central controller will remain silent for a period of time to wait for the air conditioner to complete the corresponding mode switchover preparation. This time can be adjusted according to user needs, such as 30 seconds, 60 seconds, etc., and this invention does not limit it. It should be noted that during the aforementioned silent period of the central controller, sufficient initialization and restart time is reserved for each air conditioner, and the entire air conditioning system will suspend all data interaction until the aforementioned waiting time threshold is exceeded. At this point, a mode switchover signal will be generated. The mode switchover signal is used to control the first controller to trigger the second-level signal and output the second-level signal through a preset GPIO interface.

[0120] The second level signal can be either a low-level signal or a high-level signal, but it must be different from the first level signal. That is, if the first level signal is a low-level signal, then the second level signal is a high-level signal; if the first level signal is a high-level signal, then the second level signal is a low-level signal. This invention does not limit the specific level type of the first and second level signals; they can be set according to the user's actual needs.

[0121] The high-speed communication mode activation message is used to instruct the air conditioner to switch from the standby state to the working state. Since all air conditioners have completed the preparation work for switching to high-speed communication mode, when an air conditioner receives the high-speed communication mode activation message, it will cause the air conditioner to work according to the communication rate corresponding to the high-speed communication mode, so that the entire air conditioning system can exchange data at a high speed.

[0122] It's important to note that the wired controller is not involved in the air conditioner communication rate upgrade process, therefore, status synchronization and updates are necessary. When the air conditioning system upgrades its communication rate, the air conditioner notifies the wired controller during the switching process. The wired controller then enters a "false state," meaning its status no longer reflects the current state in real time, but instead remembers the last operation command. In other words, during the upgrade, any user operation on the wired controller will not be executed immediately; only after the upgrade is complete will the wired controller execute the last set command.

[0123] This invention provides a communication compatibility method. First, the air conditioning central controller actively searches for target air conditioners in the air conditioning system with which long-term connections can be established, without requiring manual settings or operations from the user, thereby reducing user costs and operational complexity. Second, by acquiring the target air conditioner's support capabilities for different communication modes, the air conditioning central controller can intelligently execute corresponding communication mode configuration strategies based on the characteristics of the target air conditioner, thus improving communication efficiency and stability. Finally, the air conditioning central controller can dynamically adapt to different communication modes, achieving better performance and stability in various application scenarios, thereby enhancing its applicability and reliability.

[0124] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a communication compatibility method, such as... Figure 8 As shown, applied to air conditioners, the method includes the following steps:

[0125] S201: During the first working cycle, the air conditioner receives the low-speed communication mode start message sent by the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module, and after parsing the low-speed communication mode start message, generates a communication response message and sends the communication response message to the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module.

[0126] During the first operating cycle, the air conditioner's second communication module begins receiving low-speed communication mode activation messages from the air conditioner's central controller. Upon receiving the message, the second communication module parses it to extract necessary parameters and data. Next, the air conditioner generates a communication response message based on the parsed results and sends it back to the central controller via the second communication module. In this way, a low-speed communication mode data link is established between the central controller and the air conditioner.

[0127] In low-speed communication mode, the data exchange rate between the air conditioning controller and the air conditioner is low and cannot meet the data transmission requirements of some high-speed communication modes. Therefore, in low-speed communication mode, the air conditioning controller and the air conditioner typically only perform some necessary data exchanges. If operations requiring large data transmission volumes are needed, and the air conditioning system also supports high-speed communication, then a higher-speed communication mode is required. In practical applications, the air conditioning controller dynamically switches communication modes according to specific needs to meet different data exchange requirements.

[0128] S202: During the second working cycle, the air conditioner receives the communication rate query request message sent by the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module, and after parsing the communication rate query request message, generates a communication rate query result message, and sends the communication rate query result message to the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module.

[0129] During the second working cycle, the air conditioning central controller sends a communication rate query request message to the air conditioner to determine the communication rate supported by the air conditioner and thus determine the appropriate communication rate for data exchange. After receiving the communication rate query request message, the air conditioner parses the message content through the second communication module, generates a communication rate query result message based on its own communication capabilities, and sends it to the air conditioning central controller.

[0130] The communication rate query result message contains information about the communication rates supported by the air conditioner, typically including high-speed and low-speed modes. This information helps the air conditioner controller determine at which communication rate to use. The communication rate query result message is sent to the air conditioner controller via the second communication module. The air conditioner controller parses the message content to obtain the communication rate information supported by the air conditioner, thereby determining which communication rate to use for data exchange with the air conditioner.

[0131] Through the interaction of communication rate query requests and communication rate query result messages, the air conditioning controller can dynamically understand the communication rates supported by the air conditioner and select the appropriate communication rate for data exchange, thereby improving communication efficiency and stability, and also better adapting to the communication capabilities of different air conditioners.

[0132] In some embodiments, such as Figure 9 As shown, the second controller is also configured as follows:

[0133] S203: Receive the switching preparation message sent by the air conditioning central controller through the second communication module, and after completing the parsing of the switching preparation message, enter the communication mode switching preparation stage.

[0134] When the target air conditioner receives the switching preparation message from the air conditioner central controller, it receives the message through its second communication module, parses it, and determines whether to switch to high-speed communication mode. Then, the air conditioner enters the communication mode switching preparation phase. During this phase, the air conditioner needs to complete the following preparatory tasks:

[0135] Activate the underlying driver of the high-speed communication module: The air conditioner needs to activate the underlying driver of the high-speed communication module to ensure that it can use the high-speed communication mode for data interaction normally.

[0136] Store the current status information of the device into a programmable memory: In order to quickly restore the air conditioner to its previous working state after switching, the air conditioner needs to store the current status information of the device into a programmable memory.

[0137] Clear the receive buffer: Since the data transmission rate changes when the air conditioner switches from low-speed communication mode to high-speed communication mode, the air conditioner needs to clear the receive buffer to avoid receiving residual data from the low-speed communication mode.

[0138] Sending a switchover completion message: Once the above preparations are completed, the air conditioner will send a switchover completion message through the second communication module to notify the air conditioner central controller that the air conditioner is ready and can begin data interaction using the high-speed communication mode.

[0139] After receiving the switching preparation message, the air conditioner will enter the communication mode switching preparation stage to carry out necessary preparation work to ensure that it can smoothly switch to the high-speed communication mode for data interaction. It should be noted that the time required for the air conditioner to be in the mode switching preparation stage is the silent time of the air conditioner central controller.

[0140] S204: Receive the high-speed communication mode start message sent by the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module, and after parsing the high-speed communication mode start message, use the high-speed communication mode to perform data interaction.

[0141] The air conditioner receives and parses messages through the second communication module. After parsing, the air conditioner enters the high-speed communication mode, where the data communication rate between the air conditioner and the central controller increases to high-speed. In high-speed communication mode, the data communication speed between the air conditioner and the central controller is significantly improved, allowing for faster and more efficient data transmission, thereby enhancing the overall performance of the air conditioning system.

[0142] Specifically, parsing the high-speed communication mode activation message can include the following steps: First, after receiving the high-speed communication mode activation message, the air conditioner parses the message through the second communication module. During the parsing process, the air conditioner checks each field of the message to ensure its integrity and correctness. If the parsing is successful, the air conditioner enters the high-speed communication mode execution phase according to the instructions in the message and begins high-speed communication with the air conditioner central controller. By enabling the high-speed communication mode, the data communication speed between the air conditioner and the air conditioner central controller can be significantly improved, thereby enabling faster and more efficient completion of various data transmission tasks and providing users with a better user experience.

[0143] In some embodiments, the second communication module can be a wireless communication module, such as a Bluetooth module, a WiFi module, or an infrared communication module. The second communication module can be connected to a second controller in the air conditioner, transmitting commands or data to the first communication module in the remote control via wireless or infrared signals. The specific communication module used depends on specific design and practical requirements, and must be compatible with the first communication module; this invention does not limit its specific application.

[0144] The following will combine Figure 10 and Figure 11 The overall application process of this invention is described below. First, after receiving a power-on signal or a reset signal, the central controller searches for all air conditioners in the multi-split system using a low-speed communication mode. Then, it broadcasts the information to determine each air conditioner's support for high-speed HomeBus communication. If any air conditioner does not support high-speed HomeBus communication, low-speed communication is used. If all air conditioners support high-speed HomeBus communication, all air conditioners are notified to prepare for rate switching and remain silent for 30 seconds, during which time other devices on the bus can prepare for rate switching. Then, the central controller outputs a high level, switching all air conditioners to high-speed communication mode.

[0145] In some embodiments, the first controller includes a processor, and optionally, also includes a memory and a communication interface connected to the processor. The processor, memory, and communication interface are connected via a bus.

[0146] A processor can be a central processing unit (CPU), a general-purpose processor, a network processor (NP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a programmable logic device (PLD), or any combination thereof. A processor can also be any other device with processing capabilities, such as a circuit, device, or software module. A processor can also include multiple CPUs, and a processor can be a single-core processor or a multi-core processor. Here, "processor" can refer to one or more devices, circuits, or processing cores used to process data (e.g., computer program instructions).

[0147] The memory can be read-only memory (ROM) or other types of static storage devices capable of storing static information and instructions, random access memory (RAM) or other types of dynamic storage devices capable of storing information and instructions. It can also be electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (PROM), compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disc storage, optical disc storage (including compressed optical discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital universal optical discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), magnetic disk storage media, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and accessible by a computer. This embodiment of the invention does not impose any limitations on this. The memory can exist independently or be integrated with the processor. The memory may contain computer program code. The processor executes the computer program code stored in the memory to implement the communication-compatible method provided in this embodiment of the invention.

[0148] A communication interface can be used to communicate with other devices or communication networks (such as Ethernet, radio access network (RAN), wireless local area network (WLAN), etc.). The communication interface can be a module, circuit, transceiver, or any device capable of enabling communication.

[0149] A bus can be a peripheral component interconnect (PCI) bus or an extended industry standard architecture (EISA) bus, etc. Buses can be categorized as address buses, data buses, control buses, etc.

[0150] This invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium including computer-executable instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform a communication-compatible method as provided in the above embodiments.

[0151] This invention also provides a chip, including a processor and a memory; the memory is used to store computer execution instructions, the processor is connected to the memory, and when the chip is running, the processor executes the computer execution instructions stored in the memory to enable the chip to perform a communication-compatible method provided in this embodiment.

[0152] This invention also provides a computer program product that can be directly loaded into a memory and contains software code. After being loaded and executed by a computer, the computer program product can implement a communication compatibility method provided in the above embodiments.

[0153] In the description of this specification, specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0154] The above are merely specific embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A central controller for air conditioners, characterized by comprising: The air conditioner cluster controller comprises a first controller and a first communication module; The first controller is configured to: In a first working period, find, through the first communication module, target air conditioners in an air conditioning system that can establish a long connection with the air conditioner cluster controller; In a second working period, acquire, through the first communication module, support capabilities of the target air conditioners for different communication modes, and perform corresponding communication mode configuration strategies according to the support capabilities of the target air conditioners for different communication modes; The first controller is further configured to: In response to a power-on signal, output a first level signal, and control the first communication module to generate a low-speed communication mode start message according to the first level signal; Broadcast the low-speed communication mode start message to air conditioners in the air conditioning system through the first communication module; Receive a communication response message fed back by the air conditioners, and determine the target air conditioners according to device codes carried in the communication response message.

2. The air conditioner master controller according to claim 1, wherein The first controller is further configured to: In response to a protocol point inspection signal, generate a communication rate query request message, and send the communication rate query request message to the target air conditioners through the first communication module; Receive, through the first communication module, a communication rate query result message fed back by each target air conditioner, and analyze the communication rate query result message to obtain a communication rate supported by each target air conditioner; Determine support capabilities of each target air conditioner for different communication modes according to the communication rate supported by each target air conditioner.

3. The air conditioning master controller according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, The communication modes comprise a low-speed communication mode and a high-speed communication mode, and the first controller is further configured to: In a case where the target air conditioners do not all have support capabilities for the high-speed communication mode, perform data interaction in the low-speed communication mode; In a case where the target air conditioners all have support capabilities for the high-speed communication mode, perform a communication mode switching step.

4. The air conditioner master controller according to claim 3, wherein The first controller is configured to: Generate a switching preparation message, and send the switching preparation message to the target air conditioners through the first communication module; In response to a mode switching signal, output a second level signal, and control the first communication module to generate a high-speed communication mode start message according to the second level signal, and send the high-speed communication mode start message to the target air conditioners through the first communication module.

5. An air conditioner characterized by comprising: The air conditioner comprises a second controller and a second communication module; The second controller is configured to: In a first working period, receive a low-speed communication mode start message sent by an air conditioner cluster controller through the second communication module, and after analyzing the low-speed communication mode start message, generate a communication response message, and send the communication response message to the air conditioner cluster controller through the second communication module; In the second working period, the second communication module receives a communication rate query request message sent by the air conditioner central controller, and after analyzing the communication rate query request message, generates a communication rate query result message, and sends the communication rate query result message to the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module.

6. The air conditioner of claim 5, wherein The second controller is further configured to: receive a switching preparation message sent by the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module, and after completing the analysis of the switching preparation message, enter a communication mode switching preparation stage; receive a high-speed communication mode start message sent by the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module, and after completing the analysis of the high-speed communication mode start message, use the high-speed communication mode for data interaction.

7. An air conditioning system characterized by comprising: The air conditioner central controller of any one of claims 1-4 and the air conditioner of any one of claims 5-6.

8. A communication compatibility method, characterized by, The method applied to the air conditioner central controller of any one of claims 1-4, comprising: In the first working period, the air conditioner central controller finds, through the first communication module, a target air conditioner in the air conditioning system that can establish a long connection with the air conditioner central controller; In the second working period, the air conditioner central controller acquires, through the first communication module, the support capabilities of the target air conditioner for different communication modes, and according to the support capabilities of the target air conditioner for different communication modes, executes corresponding communication mode configuration strategies.

9. A communication compatibility method, characterized by, The method applied to the air conditioner of any one of claims 5-6, comprising: In the first working period, the air conditioner receives a low-speed communication mode start message sent by the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module, and after analyzing the low-speed communication mode start message, generates a communication response message, and sends the communication response message to the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module; In the second working period, the air conditioner receives a communication rate query request message sent by the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module, and after analyzing the communication rate query request message, generates a communication rate query result message, and sends the communication rate query result message to the air conditioner central controller through the second communication module.

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