Method, device, controller and storage medium for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system

Abstract

The application relates to the air conditioning technical field and discloses a method and device for controlling a multi-connected air conditioning system, a controller and a storage medium. The multi-connected air conditioning system comprises an indoor unit system and an outdoor unit system, wherein the indoor unit system comprises two or more indoor units. The method comprises the following steps: in the case that the on-off state of the indoor unit in the multi-connected air conditioning system changes in a current setting time period, determining a current load change rate of the multi-connected air conditioning system in the current setting time period; correcting the current load change rate according to a current operation mode of the multi-connected air conditioning system and a current outdoor environment temperature value, so as to obtain a current corrected load change rate; and adjusting the operation parameters of one or more devices in the multi-connected air conditioning system according to the current corrected load change rate, and operating the multi-connected air conditioning system. In this way, the probability of the occurrence of compressor liquid knock damage, system control fluctuation and other faults is reduced, and the reliability of the multi-connected air conditioning system is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of air conditioning technology, such as methods, apparatus, controllers, and storage media for controlling multi-split air conditioning systems. Background Technology

[0002] With the popularization of smart technology, smart air conditioners have become an indispensable device in people's daily lives. Furthermore, many buildings, such as hotels and office buildings, have large multi-split air conditioning systems, such as... Figure 1 As shown, in a multi-split air conditioning system, the indoor unit system consists of multiple indoor units, each of which can be switched on and off independently. When adding or removing multiple indoor units, the system load needs to change drastically. The system must adjust the compressor frequency and the valve opening of the indoor and outdoor unit expansion valves in a timely manner to control the refrigerant circulation and quickly adapt to the current system changes. Otherwise, it can easily cause problems such as compressor liquid slugging damage and system control fluctuations leading to malfunctions.

[0003] Currently, the load change rate can be calculated based on the changing load capacity of the indoor unit. For example, if the original total load capacity of the indoor unit was 10HP (HP represents horsepower), and the indoor unit's capacity is reduced by 3HP, then the load change rate is 30%. The frequency of the outdoor unit's compressor can then be adjusted based on this load change rate. For instance, if the original compressor frequency was 100Hz, and it is reduced by 30%, the adjusted compressor frequency will be 70Hz. This method of control based on the indoor unit's load change rate can alleviate problems such as compressor liquid slugging damage and system control fluctuations to a certain extent. However, because the control method is overly simplified, it cannot adapt to various complex operating environments, and compressor damage and system fluctuations remain common. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed embodiments, a brief summary is given below. This summary is not intended as a general commentary, nor is it intended to identify key / important components or describe the scope of protection of these embodiments, but rather as a prelude to the detailed description that follows.

[0005] This disclosure provides a method, apparatus, controller, and storage medium for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system, to address the technical problem of frequent malfunctions in multi-split air conditioning systems when the load changes. The multi-split air conditioning system includes an indoor unit system and an outdoor unit system, wherein the indoor unit system includes two or more indoor units.

[0006] In some embodiments, the method includes:

[0007] If the on / off state of the indoor unit in the multi-split air conditioning system changes within the current set time period, determine the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within the current set time period.

[0008] Based on the current operating mode of the multi-split air conditioning system and the current outdoor ambient temperature, the current load change rate is corrected to obtain the current corrected load change rate;

[0009] Based on the current corrected load change rate, adjust the operating parameters of one or more devices in the multi-split air conditioning system, and then operate the multi-split air conditioning system.

[0010] In some embodiments, the device includes:

[0011] The rate of change determination module is configured to determine the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within the current set time period when the on / off state of the indoor unit in the multi-split air conditioning system changes within the current set time period.

[0012] The rate of change correction module is configured to correct the current load rate of change based on the current operating mode of the multi-split air conditioning system and the current outdoor ambient temperature value, so as to obtain the current corrected load rate of change.

[0013] The adjustment control module is configured to adjust the operating parameters of one or more devices in the multi-split air conditioning system according to the current corrected load change rate, and to operate the multi-split air conditioning system.

[0014] In some embodiments, the apparatus for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system includes a processor and a memory storing program instructions, the processor being configured to execute the above-described method for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system when executing the program instructions.

[0015] In some embodiments, the controller is applied to the outdoor unit system of a multi-split air conditioning system and includes the aforementioned device for controlling the multi-split air conditioning system.

[0016] In some embodiments, the storage medium stores program instructions that, when executed, perform the method described above for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system.

[0017] The method, apparatus, and controller for controlling multi-split air conditioning systems provided in this disclosure can achieve the following technical effects:

[0018] When a load change occurs in a multi-split air conditioning system within a set time period, the corresponding load change rate is determined. This rate can be corrected based on the operating mode and the outdoor ambient temperature to obtain a corrected load change rate. Based on the corrected load change rate, the operating parameters of one or more components in the multi-split air conditioning system are adjusted and the system is put into operation. This approach combines the operating performance and reliability of the air conditioning system, improves the accuracy of the load change rate, reduces the probability of compressor liquid slugging damage and system control fluctuations leading to malfunctions, and ultimately enhances the reliability of the multi-split air conditioning system.

[0019] The above general description and the description below are exemplary and illustrative only and are not intended to limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0020] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. These illustrations and drawings do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements having the same reference numerals in the drawings are shown as similar elements. The drawings are not to be scaled. And wherein:

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air conditioning system provided in a related technical embodiment;

[0022] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart of a control method for a multi-split air conditioning system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0023] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of a control method for a multi-split air conditioning system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0024] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a control device for a multi-split air conditioning system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0025] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a control device for a multi-split air conditioning system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0026] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a control device for a multi-split air conditioning system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0027] To provide a more detailed understanding of the features and technical content of the embodiments of this disclosure, the implementation of the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this disclosure. In the following technical description, for ease of explanation, several details are used to provide a full understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, one or more embodiments may still be implemented without these details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices may be simplified in their depiction to simplify the drawings.

[0028] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this disclosure are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate for the embodiments of this disclosure described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0029] Unless otherwise stated, the term "multiple" means two or more.

[0030] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the character " / " indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B means: A or B.

[0031] The term "and / or" describes an association between objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B means: A or B, or A and B.

[0032] In this embodiment of the disclosure, such as Figure 1As shown, a multi-split air conditioning system includes an indoor unit system and an outdoor unit system. The indoor unit system includes multiple indoor units, such as indoor unit 1, indoor unit 2, ..., indoor unit m. The outdoor unit system may also include multiple outdoor units, such as outdoor unit 1, outdoor unit 2, ..., outdoor unit n. Outdoor unit 1 is the main unit and controls the multi-split air conditioning system. Thus, if one, two, or more indoor units are added to the system or one, two, or more indoor units are stopped within a set time period, the load of the air conditioning system changes. In this case, the outdoor unit system needs to obtain the load change rate of the multi-split system within the set time period and can correct it according to the operating mode and the outdoor ambient temperature to obtain the corresponding corrected load change rate. Based on the corrected load change rate, the operating parameters of one or more components in the multi-split air conditioning system are adjusted and the system operates accordingly. This integrates the operating effect and reliability of the air conditioning system, reduces the probability of compressor liquid slugging damage and system control fluctuations leading to malfunctions, and improves the reliability of the multi-split air conditioning system. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the load change rate of the air conditioning system can be determined based on parameters such as the coil temperature of each indoor unit, the indoor ambient temperature, the opening degree of the expansion valve, and the load capacity, further improving the accuracy of system control. Moreover, the compressor frequency and the opening degree of the indoor and outdoor unit expansion valves can be controlled in real time based on the adjustment speed characteristics of the compressor and expansion valve in the air conditioning system, which is beneficial for the rapid, stable, and reliable operation of the system and improves the product quality of the multi-split air conditioning system.

[0033] In the aforementioned multi-split air conditioning system, the outdoor unit system determines the load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system (hereinafter referred to as the air conditioning system), makes corrections, and controls the operation of the air conditioning system based on the corrected load change rate. Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a control method for a multi-split air conditioning system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 2 As shown, the control process of a multi-split air conditioning system includes:

[0034] Step 201: If the on / off status of the indoor units in the multi-split air conditioning system changes within the current set time period, determine the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within the current set time period.

[0035] A multi-split air conditioning system includes an indoor unit system and an outdoor unit system. The indoor unit system includes two or more indoor units, each of which can be switched on and off independently. Therefore, in some embodiments, when the multi-split air conditioning system is running, some indoor units are in an on-state while others are in a off-state. Furthermore, during operation, some indoor units may switch from an off-state to an on-state, or vice versa. In other words, the on / off state of the indoor units in the multi-split air conditioning system changes within a set time.

[0036] The system can query the on / off status of indoor units in a multi-split air conditioning system on a scheduled or real-time basis, and can determine information on changes in on / off status within a set time period, including: addition / reduction information, changes in the number of units, etc. For example, if unit 'a' switches from the off / stop state to the on / off state, it can be determined that unit 'a' has been added; if unit 'b' switches from the on / off state to the off / stop state, it can be determined that unit 'b' has been removed. Furthermore, the current time corresponds to the current set time period. If the on / off status of indoor units in the multi-split air conditioning system changes within the current set time period, the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within the current set time period can be determined.

[0037] There are several ways to determine the current load change rate of a multi-split air conditioning system within a set time period. For example, one method is to determine the first total load corresponding to the indoor units that are on at the start of the set time period. Then, one determines the second total load corresponding to the indoor units whose on / off status changes during the set time period. Finally, the ratio of the second total load to the first total load is determined as the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within the set time period. For instance, if the first total load is 10 HP, and the second total load is 3 HP after the indoor units are turned off, then the current load change rate is 30%.

[0038] In some embodiments, determining the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within a currently set time period includes: determining the number of indoor units in operation at the start of the current set time period and obtaining a first total load normalized value corresponding to the number of indoor units in operation; determining the number of indoor units whose on / off status changes within the current set time period and obtaining a second total load normalized value corresponding to the number of indoor units with the change; and determining the ratio of the second total load normalized value to the first total load normalized value as the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within the current set time period.

[0039] The process of determining the total load normalization value includes: obtaining the coil temperature TC and indoor ambient temperature TA of each indoor unit among N indoor units, and obtaining the valve opening degree LEVPOS and the corresponding load capacity HP of the expansion valve of each indoor unit; and determining the total load normalization value of N indoor units through formula (1).

[0040] SumCapRule=∑[(TCi-TAi)*LEVPOSi*HPi](i=1,2,...N)(1).

[0041] For example, if the current time period is set to 30 seconds, then the current time is the end point. 30 seconds ago, N indoor units were in operation. The coil temperature TCI and the indoor ambient temperature TAi for each operating indoor unit are obtained. The valve opening LEVPOSi and the corresponding load capacity HPi for each indoor unit are also obtained. When the air conditioning system is in cooling mode, the corresponding expansion valve is the indoor unit's expansion valve; when the air conditioning system is in heating mode, the corresponding expansion valve is the outdoor unit's expansion valve. Here, i = 1, 2, ..., N.

[0042] Therefore, the normalized value of the first total load corresponding to N indoor units can be:

[0043] RunSumCapRule=∑[(TCi-TAi)*LEVPOSi*HPi](i=1,2,...N).

[0044] Up to the current moment, M indoor units have been added. Within 30 seconds, one indoor unit switches from a shut-off state to an on-state. At this time, the coil temperature TCj and the indoor ambient temperature TAj of each of the M indoor units can be obtained, as well as the valve opening LEVPOSj and the corresponding load capacity HPj of the expansion valve for each indoor unit. When the air conditioning system is in cooling mode, the corresponding expansion valve is the expansion valve of the corresponding indoor unit; when the air conditioning system is in heating mode, the corresponding expansion valve is the expansion valve of the corresponding outdoor unit. Here, j = 1, 2, ... M.

[0045] Therefore, the normalized value of the second total load corresponding to M indoor units can be:

[0046] ChgSumCapRule=∑[(TCj-TAj)*LEVPOSj*HPj](j=1,2,…M)

[0047] Then, based on the first total load normalized value and the second total load normalized value, the current load change rate can be obtained: capChgRate=ChgSumCapRule / RunSumCapRule.

[0048] Step 202: Based on the current operating mode of the multi-split air conditioning system and the current outdoor ambient temperature, correct the current load change rate to obtain the current corrected load change rate.

[0049] Tests can be conducted under conditions of comprehensive air conditioning performance and reliable system operation to determine and save the air conditioning system's operating mode and the correspondence between outdoor ambient temperature values ​​and load correction factors. This allows obtaining the current outdoor temperature value and current operating mode. Based on the current trend of change information, the corresponding current load correction factor can be determined according to the saved correspondence. Then, the current load change rate capChgRate is corrected based on the current load correction factor capChgRate to obtain the current corrected load change rate.

[0050] The current corrected load change rate capChgRateFix = capChgRate * FixRate. The corrected current corrected load change rate is more accurate, taking into account both the air conditioning performance and the system's reliable operation.

[0051] Table 1 shows the correspondence between outdoor ambient temperature values ​​and load correction coefficients for an operating mode provided in this embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052]

[0053] Table 1

[0054] For example: If a multi-split air conditioning system is operating in cooling mode, and the current outdoor temperature is 37°C, and the change information within the current set time includes an increase, then according to Table 1, the corresponding current load correction factor can be determined to be 1.1. Therefore, capChgRateFix = capChgRate * 1.1. Conversely, if the multi-split air conditioning system is operating in heating mode, and the current outdoor temperature is -5°C, and the change information within the current set time includes a decrease, then according to Table 1, the corresponding current load correction factor can be determined to be 0.9. Therefore, capChgRateFix = capChgRate * 0.9.

[0055] Step 203: Based on the current corrected load change rate, adjust the operating parameters of one or more components in the multi-split air conditioning system and run the multi-split air conditioning system.

[0056] Adjusting the operating parameters of one or more components in a multi-split air conditioning system includes adjusting the operating frequency of the compressor in the system, as well as the valve opening degree of the expansion valve corresponding to the indoor unit whose on / off status changes.

[0057] When the air conditioning system is in cooling mode, the corresponding expansion valve is the indoor unit expansion valve, while when the air conditioning system is in heating mode, the corresponding expansion valve is the outdoor unit expansion valve.

[0058] For example, if the compressor's current operating frequency is 100Hz, and the current corrected load change rate is 30% * 0.7 = 21%, then the compressor's operating frequency in the system can be adjusted to 79Hz. Conversely, if the air conditioning system is operating in heating mode, the corresponding outdoor expansion valve opening is 200 pls. If the current corrected load change rate is 30% * 0.8 = 24%, then the corresponding outdoor expansion valve opening in the system can be adjusted to 200 + 200 * 24% = 248 pls.

[0059] In some embodiments, the adjustment of the operating parameters of the devices in the air conditioning system is a continuous process, that is, the corresponding adjustment is made according to the adjustment speed of the device. For example, if the current operating frequency of the compressor is 100HZ, and the current corrected load change rate is 30%*0.7=21%, then the operating frequency of the compressor can be adjusted to 79HZ according to the adjustment speed of the compressor.

[0060] In multi-split air conditioning systems, the specifications for the compressor and expansion valve define their respective adjustment speeds. When adjusting the compressor's operating frequency and the expansion valve's opening based on the current corrected load change rate, inconsistent adjustment speeds can lead to one component adjusting to its optimal position while the other takes significantly longer. This mismatch between the compressor's operating frequency and the expansion valve's opening can result in excessive or insufficient refrigerant circulation. Excessive refrigerant circulation can cause compressor liquid slugging, while insufficient circulation can lead to excessively high exhaust temperatures, affecting the system's reliable operation. Therefore, in some embodiments of this disclosure, their adjustment speeds can be limited to ensure simultaneous adjustment as much as possible. Specifically, when adjusting the expansion valve, during cooling operation, commands can be sent to each indoor unit in operation to control the expansion valves of each unit to adjust their openings at the same speed. Once adjusted, forced control is exited, and each indoor unit resumes its own control logic. During heating operation, the outdoor unit's expansion valve can be directly controlled for opening adjustment.

[0061] In this way, adjusting the operating parameters of one or more components in a multi-split air conditioning system may specifically include: determining the current expansion valve of the indoor unit that sends the switch state change in accordance with the current operating mode; identifying the component with the smallest adjustment speed in the current expansion valve and the compressor of the multi-split air conditioning system as the reference component; and synchronously adjusting the operating frequency of the compressor and the valve opening of the current expansion valve according to the current corrected load change rate and the real-time adjustment speed of the reference component.

[0062] For example, when the air conditioner is in heating mode, the current expansion valve of the indoor unit whose switch status changes can be identified as the expansion valve of the outdoor unit. According to the component datasheet, the first component adjustment speed of the compressor is less than the second component adjustment speed of the outdoor unit expansion valve of the current indoor unit whose switch status changes. Therefore, the compressor corresponding to the first component adjustment speed can be identified as the reference component. Then, based on the current corrected load change rate, the compressor's operating frequency and the current expansion valve opening can be adjusted synchronously with the compressor's real-time adjustment speed.

[0063] Table 2 shows the operating frequency of a compressor and the adjustment information of the valve opening of the outdoor unit expansion valve provided in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0064]

[0065] Table 2

[0066] As shown in Table 2, the current corrected load change rate is 20%. Therefore, based on the compressor's adjustment speed, the compressor's operating frequency needs to be reduced by 20% within 30 seconds, that is, from 115.2 Hz to 92.2 Hz. Consequently, the opening of the outdoor unit's expansion valve also needs to be reduced by 20% within 30 seconds, that is, from 246 pls to 197 pls.

[0067] Therefore, it is necessary to adjust the compressor's operating frequency based on the current corrected load change rate and the compressor's adjustment speed, obtain the compressor's current adjustment speed in real time, and adjust the current expansion valve opening based on the current adjustment speed.

[0068] As shown in Table 2, at the 5th second: the compressor frequency reduction ratio = (115.2-110.4) / 115.2 = 4.2%, that is, the current adjustment speed of the compressor = 4.2%. Therefore, consistent with the current adjustment speed of 4.2%, the outdoor unit expansion valve is synchronously adjusted to the current valve opening = 246*(1-4.2%) = 236pls. At the 10th second: the compressor frequency reduction ratio = (115.2-107.3) / 115.2 = 6.9%. Therefore, consistent with the current adjustment speed of 6.9%, the outdoor unit expansion valve is synchronously adjusted to the current valve opening = 246*(1-6.9%) = 229pls. At the 30th second, the compressor's current adjustment speed is (115.2-92.2) / 115.2 = 20%. Therefore, consistent with this 20% current adjustment speed, the outdoor unit's expansion valve is simultaneously adjusted to its current valve opening of 246*(1-20%) = 197 seconds. This synchronized adjustment speed of the compressor and expansion valve further reduces the likelihood of compressor liquid slugging damage and excessively high exhaust temperatures, thus further improving the stability of the multi-split air conditioning system.

[0069] Of course, if the compressor's first adjustment speed is determined to be greater than the corresponding expansion valve's second adjustment speed according to the component specifications, then the expansion valve can be designated as the reference component. Within the corresponding adjustment period, the valve opening can be adjusted based on the current corrected load change rate. At the set time corresponding to the adjustment period, the compressor's operating frequency can be synchronously adjusted based on the expansion valve's real-time adjustment speed. Specific examples are omitted here. Alternatively, if the compressor's first adjustment speed is equal to the corresponding expansion valve's second adjustment speed, either the compressor or the expansion valve can be designated as the reference component.

[0070] As can be seen, in this embodiment of the present disclosure, when a load change occurs in the multi-split air conditioning system within a set time period, the corresponding load change rate is determined and can be corrected according to the operating mode and the outdoor ambient temperature value to obtain the corresponding corrected load change rate. Based on the corrected load change rate, the operating parameters of one or more devices in the multi-split air conditioning system are adjusted and the system is operated. In this way, the operating effect and reliability of the air conditioning system are combined, the probability of compressor liquid slugging damage and system control fluctuations causing failures is reduced, and the reliability of the multi-split air conditioning system is improved.

[0071] The following describes the operation process in a specific embodiment, illustrating the control process for a multi-split air conditioning system provided by the embodiments of the present invention.

[0072] In one embodiment of this disclosure, such as Figure 1 As shown, a multi-split air conditioning system includes an indoor unit system and an outdoor unit system. The indoor unit system includes multiple indoor units, such as indoor unit 1, indoor unit 2, ..., indoor unit m. The outdoor unit system may also include multiple outdoor units, such as outdoor unit 1, outdoor unit 2, ..., outdoor unit n. The controller corresponding to the outdoor unit system stores the correspondence shown in Table 1, and also stores the adjustment speed of the first device corresponding to the compressor, and the adjustment speed of the second device corresponding to each expansion valve.

[0073] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a control method for a multi-split air conditioning system provided in this disclosure. (In conjunction with...) Figure 3 The control process of a multi-split air conditioning system includes:

[0074] Step 301: Determine whether the on / off status of the indoor units in the multi-split air conditioning system has changed within the currently set time period. If yes, proceed to step 302; otherwise, end the process.

[0075] Step 302: Obtain the current changes in the multi-split air conditioning system, including: addition / reduction information and the number of units changed.

[0076] Step 303: Determine the number of indoor units that are in operation at the start time of the current set time period, and obtain the first total load normalized value corresponding to the number of indoor units in operation.

[0077] The number of indoor units in operation at the initial moment is N. The current expansion valve matching the current operating mode of the air conditioning system is determined. Therefore, the coil temperature TCI and the indoor ambient temperature TAi for each indoor unit in operation are obtained. The valve opening LEVPOSi and the corresponding load capacity HPi for each indoor unit's expansion valve are also obtained. When the air conditioning system is in cooling mode, the corresponding expansion valve is the indoor unit's expansion valve; when the air conditioning system is in heating mode, the corresponding expansion valve is the outdoor unit's expansion valve. Here, i = 1, 2, ..., N.

[0078] Therefore, the normalized value of the first total load corresponding to N indoor units can be:

[0079] RunSumCapRule=∑[(TCi-TAi)*LEVPOSi*HPi](i=1,2,...N).

[0080] Step 304: Determine the number of indoor units whose on / off status changes within the current set time period, and obtain the second total load normalized value corresponding to the number of indoor units with the changed status.

[0081] If, up to the current moment, M indoor units have been added or removed, the coil temperature TCj and the indoor ambient temperature TAj for each of the M indoor units can be obtained. Additionally, the valve opening LEVPOSj and the corresponding load capacity HPj for each indoor unit's expansion valve can also be obtained. When the air conditioning system is in cooling mode, the corresponding expansion valve is the indoor unit's expansion valve; when the air conditioning system is in heating mode, the corresponding expansion valve is the outdoor unit's expansion valve. Here, j = 1, 2, ..., M.

[0082] Therefore, the normalized value of the second total load corresponding to M indoor units can be:

[0083] ChgSumCapRule=∑[(TCj-TAj)*LEVPOSj*HPj](j=1,2,...M).

[0084] Step 305: Determine the ratio of the second total load normalized value to the first total load normalized value as the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within the current set time period.

[0085] Thus, the current load change rate is: capChgRate = ChgSumCapRule /

[0086] RunSumCapRule.

[0087] Step 306: Determine the current operating mode of the multi-split air conditioning system and the current outdoor ambient temperature value, and determine the current load correction coefficient that matches the current operating mode, the current outdoor ambient temperature value, and the current increase / decrease information according to the correspondence shown in Table 1.

[0088] Step 307: Correct the current load change rate according to the current load correction factor to obtain the current corrected load change rate.

[0089] Step 308: Determine the current expansion valve of the indoor unit that sends the switch status change to match the current operating mode.

[0090] Step 309: Compare the adjustment speed of the second device corresponding to each current expansion valve with the adjustment speed of the first device corresponding to the compressor in the air conditioning system. Is the adjustment speed of the first device less than the current adjustment speed of the second device? If yes, proceed to step 310; otherwise, proceed to step 311.

[0091] Step 310: Adjust the compressor's operating frequency according to the current corrected load change rate and obtain the compressor's real-time adjustment speed. Based on the real-time adjustment speed, adjust the valve opening of the current expansion valve corresponding to the current adjustment speed of the second device.

[0092] Step 311: Based on the current corrected load change rate, adjust the valve opening of the current expansion valve corresponding to the current adjustment speed of the second device, and obtain the real-time adjustment speed of the current expansion valve. Based on the real-time adjustment speed, adjust the operating frequency of the compressor.

[0093] Steps 309-311 are performed synchronously for each indoor unit that sends a change in its switch status.

[0094] As can be seen, in this embodiment, when the load of the multi-split air conditioning system changes, the load change rate of the air conditioning system can be determined based on the indoor ambient temperature, coil temperature, expansion valve opening, and the load capacity of the corresponding indoor unit. This can be corrected according to the operating mode and outdoor ambient temperature to obtain a corresponding corrected load change rate. Based on the corrected load change rate, the operating parameters of one or more components in the multi-split air conditioning system are adjusted and the system is operated accordingly. This integrates the air conditioning system's operating effect and reliability, reducing the probability of compressor liquid slugging damage and system control fluctuations leading to malfunctions, thus improving the reliability of the multi-split air conditioning system. Furthermore, determining the load change rate of the air conditioning system based on parameters such as the coil temperature of each indoor unit, indoor ambient temperature, expansion valve opening, and load capacity further improves the accuracy of system control. Moreover, based on the adjustment speed characteristics of the compressor and expansion valve in the air conditioning system, the compressor frequency and the opening of the indoor and outdoor unit expansion valves can be controlled in real time, which is beneficial for the rapid, stable, and reliable operation of the system, improving the product quality of the multi-split air conditioning system.

[0095] Based on the above process for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system, a device for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system can be constructed.

[0096] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a control device for a multi-split air conditioning system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 4 As shown, the control device for multi-split air conditioning systems can be applied to the outdoor unit system of a multi-split air conditioning system. The device includes: a rate of change determination module 410, a rate of change correction module 420, and an adjustment control module 430.

[0097] The rate of change determination module 410 is configured to determine the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within the current set time period when the on / off state of the indoor unit in the multi-split air conditioning system changes within the current set time period.

[0098] The rate of change correction module 420 is configured to correct the current load rate of change based on the current operating mode of the multi-split air conditioning system and the current outdoor ambient temperature, so as to obtain the current corrected load rate of change.

[0099] The adjustment control module 430 is configured to adjust the operating parameters of one or more devices in the multi-split air conditioning system according to the current corrected load change rate, and to operate the multi-split air conditioning system.

[0100] In some embodiments, the rate of change determination module 410 includes:

[0101] The first determining unit is configured to determine the number of indoor units in operation at the start time of the current set time period, and obtain the first total load normalization value corresponding to the number of indoor units in operation.

[0102] The second determining unit is configured to determine the number of indoor units whose switch status changes within the current set time period, and obtain the second total load normalization value corresponding to the number of indoor units with the changed number of units.

[0103] The third determining unit is configured to determine the ratio of the second total load normalized value to the first total load normalized value as the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within the current set time period.

[0104] In some embodiments, the rate of change determination module 410 is specifically configured to obtain the coil temperature TC and the indoor ambient temperature value TA of each indoor unit among N indoor units, and obtain the valve opening degree LEVPOS of the expansion valve corresponding to each indoor unit and the corresponding load capacity HP; and determine the total load normalization value of N indoor units through formula (1).

[0105] SumCapRule=∑[(TCi-TAi)*LEVPOSi*HPi](i=1,2,...N)(1).

[0106] In some embodiments, the adjustment control module 430 includes:

[0107] The matching unit is configured to determine the current expansion valve of the indoor unit that sends a change in switch state to match the current operating mode.

[0108] The comparison unit is configured to identify the device with the smallest adjustment speed in the current expansion valve and the compressor of the multi-split air conditioning system as the reference device.

[0109] The adjustment unit is configured to synchronously adjust the compressor's operating frequency and the current expansion valve opening based on the current corrected load change rate and the real-time adjustment speed of the reference device.

[0110] The air conditioning control process for a multi-split air conditioning system control device is further described below with reference to embodiments.

[0111] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 As shown, a multi-split air conditioning system includes an indoor unit system and an outdoor unit system. The indoor unit system includes multiple indoor units, such as indoor unit 1, indoor unit 2, ..., indoor unit m. The outdoor unit system may also include multiple outdoor units, such as outdoor unit 1, outdoor unit 2, ..., outdoor unit n. The controller corresponding to the outdoor unit system stores the correspondence shown in Table 1, and also stores the adjustment speed of the first device corresponding to the compressor, and the adjustment speed of the second device corresponding to each expansion valve.

[0112] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a control device for a multi-split air conditioning system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 5 As shown, the control device for multi-split air conditioning systems is applied to Figure 1 In the outdoor unit system of the multi-split air conditioning system shown, the device includes:

[0113] It includes: a rate of change determination module 410, a rate of change correction module 420, and an adjustment control module 430. The rate of change determination module 410 includes: a first determination unit 411, a second determination unit 412, and a third determination unit 413. The adjustment control module 430 includes: a matching unit 431, a comparison unit 432, and an adjustment unit 433.

[0114] When the on / off status of indoor units in a multi-split air conditioning system changes within the current set time period, the change rate determination unit 410 can obtain the current change status of the multi-split air conditioning system. Furthermore, the first determination unit 411 within the change rate determination unit 410 can determine the number of indoor units in operation at the start of the current set time period, and obtain the first total load normalization value corresponding to the number of operating indoor units using formula (1). The second determination unit 412 determines the number of indoor units whose on / off status changes within the current set time period, and obtains the second total load normalization value corresponding to the number of changing indoor units using formula (1). Specifically, for N indoor units, the coil temperature TC and indoor ambient temperature TA of each indoor unit are obtained, along with the valve opening LEVPOS of the corresponding expansion valve and the corresponding load capacity HP; thus, the total load normalization value of the N indoor units is determined using formula (1).

[0115] SumCapRule=∑[(TCi-TAi)*LEVPOSi*HPi](i=1,2,...N)(1).

[0116] Thus, the third determining unit 413 determines the ratio of the second total load normalized value to the first total load normalized value as the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within the current set time period.

[0117] Then, the rate of change correction module 420 can determine the current operating mode of the multi-split air conditioning system and the current outdoor ambient temperature value, and determine the current load correction coefficient that matches the current operating mode, the current outdoor ambient temperature value, and the current increase / decrease information according to the correspondence shown in Table 1, and correct the current load change rate according to the current load correction coefficient to obtain the current corrected load change rate.

[0118] In this way, the matching unit 431 in the adjustment control module 430 can determine the current expansion valve of the indoor unit that sends the switch state change matching the current operating mode. Then, the comparison unit 432 can compare the adjustment speed of the second device corresponding to each current expansion valve with the adjustment speed of the first device corresponding to the compressor in the air conditioning system. The device with the smaller value is then determined as the reference device. Therefore, the adjustment unit 433 can synchronously adjust the compressor's operating frequency and the valve opening of the current expansion valve based on the current corrected load change rate and the real-time adjustment speed of the reference device.

[0119] As can be seen, in this embodiment, when the load of the multi-split air conditioning system changes, the device in the outdoor unit system used for controlling the multi-split air conditioning system can determine the load change rate of the air conditioning system based on the indoor ambient temperature, coil temperature, expansion valve opening, and the load capacity of the corresponding indoor unit. It can then correct this based on the operating mode and outdoor ambient temperature to obtain a corresponding corrected load change rate. Based on this corrected load change rate, the operating parameters of one or more components in the multi-split air conditioning system are adjusted and the system operates accordingly. This integrates the air conditioning system's operating effect and reliability, reducing the probability of compressor liquid slugging damage and system control fluctuations leading to malfunctions, thus improving the reliability of the multi-split air conditioning system. Furthermore, determining the load change rate of the air conditioning system based on parameters such as the coil temperature of each indoor unit, indoor ambient temperature, expansion valve opening, and load capacity further improves the accuracy of system control. Moreover, based on the adjustment speed characteristics of the compressor and expansion valve in the air conditioning system, the compressor frequency and the opening of the indoor and outdoor unit expansion valves can be controlled in real time, which is beneficial for the rapid, stable, and reliable operation of the system, improving the product quality of the multi-split air conditioning system.

[0120] This disclosure provides an apparatus for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system, the structure of which is as follows: Figure 6 As shown, it includes:

[0121] The processor 1000 and memory 1001 may further include a communication interface 1002 and a bus 1003. The processor 1000, communication interface 1002, and memory 1001 can communicate with each other via the bus 1003. The communication interface 1002 can be used for information transmission. The processor 1000 can call logical instructions stored in the memory 1001 to execute the method for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system as described in the above embodiment.

[0122] Furthermore, the logic instructions in the aforementioned memory 1001 can be implemented as software functional units and, when sold or used as independent products, can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium.

[0123] The memory 1001, as a computer-readable storage medium, can be used to store software programs and computer-executable programs, such as program instructions / modules corresponding to the methods in the embodiments of this disclosure. The processor 1000 executes functional applications and data processing by running the program instructions / modules stored in the memory 1001, that is, it implements the method for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system as described in the above method embodiments.

[0124] The memory 1001 may include a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area may store the operating system and applications required for at least one function; the data storage area may store data created based on the use of the terminal device. Furthermore, the memory 1001 may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-volatile memory.

[0125] This disclosure provides a control device for a multi-split air conditioning system, including: a processor and a memory storing program instructions, wherein the processor is configured to execute a control method for the multi-split air conditioning system when executing the program instructions.

[0126] This disclosure provides a controller for use in the outdoor unit system of a multi-split air conditioning system, including the aforementioned control device for multi-split air conditioning systems.

[0127] This disclosure provides a storage medium storing program instructions that, when executed, perform the method described above for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system.

[0128] This disclosure provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program stored on a storage medium. The computer program includes program instructions, which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the above-described method for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system.

[0129] The aforementioned storage medium can be a transient computer-readable storage medium or a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

[0130] The technical solutions of this disclosure can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes one or more instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the method described in this disclosure. The aforementioned storage medium can be a non-transitory storage medium, including: a USB flash drive, a portable hard drive, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk, or an optical disk, and other media capable of storing program code; it can also be a transient storage medium.

[0131] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings fully illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure to enable those skilled in the art to practice them. Other embodiments may include structural, logical, electrical, procedural, and other changes. The embodiments represent only possible variations. Individual components and functions are optional unless explicitly required, and the order of operation may vary. Parts and features of some embodiments may be included or replace parts and features of other embodiments. The scope of the embodiments of this disclosure includes the entire scope of the claims and all available equivalents of the claims. While the terms “first,” “second,” etc., may be used in this application to describe elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element may be called a second element without changing the meaning of the description, and similarly, a second element may be called a first element, provided that all occurrences of “first element” are consistently renamed and all occurrences of “second element” are consistently renamed. First and second elements are both elements, but may not be the same element. Moreover, the terminology used in this application is only for describing embodiments and is not intended to limit the claims. As used in the description of the embodiments and claims, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to also include the plural forms. Similarly, the term “and / or” as used herein means including one or more of the associated listed elements and all possible combinations thereof. Additionally, when used herein, the terms “comprise” and its variations “comprises” and / or “comprising” refer to the presence of stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase “comprising an…” does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, or apparatus that includes said element. In this document, each embodiment may focus on the differences from other embodiments, and similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to mutually. For methods, products, etc., disclosed in the embodiments, if they correspond to the method section disclosed in the embodiments, the relevant parts can be referred to the description of the method section.

[0132] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of the embodiments of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0133] The methods and products (including but not limited to devices and equipment) disclosed in the embodiments herein can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of units may be merely a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. In addition, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection between the shown or discussed units may be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units, that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units may be selected to implement this embodiment according to actual needs. Furthermore, the functional units in the embodiments of this disclosure may be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit may exist physically separately, or two or more units may be integrated into one unit.

[0134] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to embodiments of this disclosure. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code containing one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. In some alternative implementations, the functions marked in the blocks may occur in a different order than that shown in the drawings. For example, two consecutive blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. In the descriptions corresponding to the flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings, the operations or steps corresponding to different blocks may also occur in a different order than disclosed in the description, and sometimes there is no specific order between different operations or steps. For example, two consecutive operations or steps may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. Each block in a block diagram and / or flowchart, and combinations of blocks in a block diagram and / or flowchart, can be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or action, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system, characterized in that, The multi-split air conditioning system includes an indoor unit system and an outdoor unit system, wherein the indoor unit system includes two or more indoor units, and the method includes: If the on / off state of the indoor unit in the multi-split air conditioning system changes within the current set time period, determine the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within the current set time period. Based on the current operating mode of the multi-split air conditioning system and the current outdoor ambient temperature, the current load change rate is corrected to obtain the current corrected load change rate; Based on the current corrected load change rate, adjust the operating parameters of multiple components in the multi-split air conditioning system, and then operate the multi-split air conditioning system. The determination of the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within the current set time period includes: determining the number of indoor units in operation at the start of the current set time period and obtaining a first total load normalized value corresponding to the number of indoor units in operation; determining the number of indoor units whose on / off status changes within the current set time period and obtaining a second total load normalized value corresponding to the number of indoor units with the change; and determining the ratio of the second total load normalized value to the first total load normalized value as the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within the current set time period. The adjustment of the operating parameters of multiple components in the multi-split air conditioning system includes: determining the current expansion valve of the indoor unit whose switch state changes are matched with the current operating mode; identifying the component with the smallest adjustment speed among the current expansion valve and the compressor of the multi-split air conditioning system as the reference component; and synchronously adjusting the operating frequency of the compressor and the valve opening of the current expansion valve according to the current corrected load change rate and the real-time adjustment speed of the reference component.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process for determining the total load normalization value includes: Obtain the coil temperature TC and indoor ambient temperature TA of each of the N indoor units, and obtain the valve opening LEVPOS and corresponding load capacity HP of the expansion valve for each indoor unit. The total load normalization value of the N indoor units is determined using formula (1): SumCapRule = ∑[(TCi-TAi)* LEVPOSi * HPi] (i=1,2,…N) (1).

3. A device for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system, characterized in that, The multi-split air conditioning system includes an indoor unit system and an outdoor unit system, wherein the indoor unit system includes two or more indoor units, and the device includes: The rate of change determination module is configured to determine the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within the current set time period when the on / off state of the indoor unit in the multi-split air conditioning system changes within the current set time period. The rate of change correction module is configured to correct the current load rate of change based on the current operating mode of the multi-split air conditioning system and the current outdoor ambient temperature value, so as to obtain the current corrected load rate of change. The adjustment control module is configured to adjust the operating parameters of multiple devices in the multi-split air conditioning system according to the current corrected load change rate, and to operate the multi-split air conditioning system. The rate of change determination module includes: The first determining unit is configured to determine the number of indoor units in operation at the start time of the current set time period, and obtain the first total load normalization value corresponding to the number of indoor units in operation. The second determining unit is configured to determine the number of indoor units whose switch status changes during the current set time period, and to obtain the second total load normalization value corresponding to the number of indoor units with the changed number of units. The third determining unit is configured to determine the ratio of the second total load normalized value to the first total load normalized value as the current load change rate of the multi-split air conditioning system within the current set time period; The adjustment control module includes: The matching unit is configured to determine the current expansion valve of the indoor unit that sends the switch state change in accordance with the current operating mode; The comparison unit is configured to identify the device with the smallest adjustment speed among the current expansion valve and the compressor of the multi-split air conditioning system as the reference device; The adjustment unit is configured to synchronously adjust the operating frequency of the compressor and the valve opening of the current expansion valve according to the current corrected load change rate and the real-time adjustment speed of the reference device.

4. A device for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system, the device comprising a processor and a memory storing program instructions, characterized in that, The processor is configured to, when executing the program instructions, perform the method for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system as described in any one of claims 1 to 2.

5. A controller, characterized in that, The outdoor unit system applied to a multi-split air conditioning system includes: the device for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system as described in claim 3 or 4.

6. A storage medium storing program instructions, characterized in that, When the program instructions are executed, they perform the method for controlling a multi-split air conditioning system as described in any one of claims 1 to 2.

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