Air-cooled heat pump unit control method and device and air-cooled heat pump system

Abstract

The application relates to an air-cooled heat pump unit control method and device, an air-cooled heat pump system, computer equipment, a storage medium and a computer program product. After the working parameters of the air-cooled heat pump unit are acquired, it is judged whether the working parameters satisfy the entering condition of a frost inhibition mode. If yes, the air-cooled heat pump unit is controlled to enter the frost inhibition mode. In the frost inhibition mode, the gas generated by the compressor of the air-cooled heat pump unit is directly passed through the air heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit. After it is judged that the working parameters of the air-cooled heat pump unit satisfy the entering condition of the frost inhibition mode, the air-cooled heat pump unit is controlled to enter the frost inhibition mode, and the gas generated by the compressor of the air-cooled heat pump unit is directly passed through the air heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit. Frost can be inhibited by rapidly passing hot gas before frost, the method can delay the frost time, reduce the frost layer thickness, reduce the influence of frost and defrost on the heating performance, and thus the working reliability of the air-cooled heat pump unit is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of air conditioning equipment technology, and in particular to a control method, device, system, computer equipment, storage medium and computer program product for an air-cooled heat pump unit. Background Technology

[0002] An air-cooled heat pump unit is a circulating system consisting of a compressor, heat exchanger, expansion valve, and receiver. The refrigerant circulates within the system under the action of the compressor. Inside the compressor, it undergoes a process of pressurization and heating from its gaseous state. Upon entering the heat exchanger, it exchanges heat with the air, is cooled, and transforms into a liquid state. When it reaches the receiver, the liquid rapidly absorbs heat and evaporates, transforming back into a gaseous state while its temperature drops. At this point, the surrounding air continuously transfers low-temperature heat to the refrigerant. This continuous circulation of the refrigerant achieves the process of converting low-temperature heat from the air into high-temperature heat to heat the chilled water.

[0003] During operation, the refrigerant in the receiver of an air-cooled heat pump unit evaporates, causing the receiver surface temperature to drop. Water vapor in the air comes into contact with this low-temperature surface and frost forms. As the heating cycle continues, the frost layer gradually thickens. With the accumulation of frost, the heating capacity of the air-cooled heat pump unit decreases, leading to reduced operational reliability. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to address the problem of low operational reliability of traditional air-cooled heat pump units by providing a control method, device, system, computer equipment, storage medium, and computer program product that can improve operational reliability.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a control method for an air-cooled heat pump unit, including:

[0006] Obtain the operating parameters of the air-cooled heat pump unit;

[0007] Determine whether the operating parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frosting mode;

[0008] If so, control the air-cooled heat pump unit to enter the anti-frost mode;

[0009] In the anti-frost mode, the gas generated by the compressor of the air-cooled heat pump unit is controlled to be directly connected to the air heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit.

[0010] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0011] In the anti-frost mode, the throttling element of the air-cooled heat pump unit is opened; the air heat exchanger is connected to the water-side heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit through the throttling element.

[0012] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0013] In the anti-frost mode, the compressor is controlled to run at full load.

[0014] In one embodiment, after controlling the air-cooled heat pump unit to enter the anti-frost mode, the method further includes:

[0015] After the anti-frost mode has been running for a preset time, the air-cooled heat pump unit is controlled to exit the anti-frost mode.

[0016] In one embodiment, the operating parameters include low-pressure, defrosting temperature, and cumulative compressor running time. Determining whether the operating parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frosting mode includes:

[0017] Determine whether the low-pressure is less than or equal to the target low-pressure for suppressing frosting; and,

[0018] Determine whether the defrosting temperature is less than or equal to the anti-frosting setting temperature; and

[0019] Determine whether the cumulative running time of the compressor is greater than or equal to the minimum heating operation time of the compressor, and less than the defrosting interval time of the compressor.

[0020] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0021] In heating mode, the throttling element of the air-cooled heat pump unit is closed, and the electronic expansion valve of the air-cooled heat pump unit is opened; the air heat exchanger is connected to the water-side heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit through the throttling element, and is also connected to the water-side heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit through the electronic expansion valve.

[0022] Secondly, this application also provides a control device for an air-cooled heat pump unit, the device comprising:

[0023] The parameter acquisition module is used to acquire the operating parameters of the air-cooled heat pump unit;

[0024] The judgment module is used to determine whether the working parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frost mode;

[0025] The mode control module is used to control the air-cooled heat pump unit to enter the anti-frost mode if the condition is met.

[0026] The mode execution module is used to control the gas generated by the compressor of the air-cooled heat pump unit to be directly connected to the air heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit in the anti-frost mode.

[0027] Thirdly, this application also provides an air-cooled heat pump system, including an air-cooled heat pump unit and a controller. The air-cooled heat pump unit includes a compressor, a first switch, an air heat exchanger, a water-side heat exchanger, a four-way valve, a second switch, a third switch, and an electronic expansion valve. The compressor is connected to the air heat exchanger through the first switch. The compressor is connected to the air heat exchanger sequentially through the third switch, the four-way valve, and the second switch. The air heat exchanger is connected to the water-side heat exchanger through the electronic expansion valve. The water-side heat exchanger is connected to the compressor through the four-way valve.

[0028] The compressor, the first switch, the second switch, the four-way valve, and the electronic expansion valve are all connected to the controller, which is used to control the air-cooled heat pump unit according to the above method.

[0029] In one embodiment, the air-cooled heat pump unit further includes a throttling element, the air heat exchanger is connected to the water-side heat exchanger through the throttling element, the throttling element is connected to the controller, and the controller is used to control the throttling element to open or close.

[0030] In one embodiment, the throttling element includes a throttling tube and a fourth switch, the fourth switch being connected to the throttling tube and the controller.

[0031] In one embodiment, the controller is further configured to, in the anti-frost mode, de-energize the four-way valve, de-energize the second and third switches, energize the first and fourth switches, and control the electronic expansion valve to close.

[0032] In one embodiment, the controller is further configured to, in heating mode, energize the four-way valve, energize the second and third switches, de-energize the first and fourth switches, and control the electronic expansion valve to open.

[0033] In one embodiment, the controller is further configured to, in defrosting mode, de-energize the four-way valve, energize the second and third switches, de-energize the first and fourth switches, and control the electronic expansion valve to open.

[0034] Fourthly, this application also provides a computer device. The computer device includes a memory and a processor, the memory storing a computer program, and the processor executing the computer program to perform the following steps:

[0035] Obtain the operating parameters of the air-cooled heat pump unit;

[0036] Determine whether the operating parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frosting mode;

[0037] If so, control the air-cooled heat pump unit to enter the anti-frost mode;

[0038] In the anti-frost mode, the gas generated by the compressor of the air-cooled heat pump unit is controlled to be directly connected to the air heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit.

[0039] Fifthly, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium. The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps:

[0040] Obtain the operating parameters of the air-cooled heat pump unit;

[0041] Determine whether the operating parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frosting mode;

[0042] If so, control the air-cooled heat pump unit to enter the anti-frost mode;

[0043] In the anti-frost mode, the gas generated by the compressor of the air-cooled heat pump unit is controlled to be directly connected to the air heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit.

[0044] Sixthly, this application also provides a computer program product. The computer program product includes a computer program that, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps:

[0045] Obtain the operating parameters of the air-cooled heat pump unit;

[0046] Determine whether the operating parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frosting mode;

[0047] If so, control the air-cooled heat pump unit to enter the anti-frost mode;

[0048] In the anti-frost mode, the gas generated by the compressor of the air-cooled heat pump unit is controlled to be directly connected to the air heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit.

[0049] The aforementioned control method, device, system, computer equipment, storage medium, and computer program product for air-cooled heat pump units, after acquiring the operating parameters of the air-cooled heat pump unit, determines whether the operating parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frost mode. If so, it controls the air-cooled heat pump unit to enter the anti-frost mode. In the anti-frost mode, it controls the air heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit to directly supply the gas generated by the compressor. Based on the determination that the conditions for entering the anti-frost mode are met based on the operating parameters of the air-cooled heat pump unit, controlling the air-cooled heat pump unit to enter the anti-frost mode and controlling the air heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit to directly supply the gas generated by the compressor can suppress frost formation by rapidly introducing hot air before frost forms. This method can delay the frost formation time, reduce the frost thickness, and reduce the impact of frost formation and defrosting on heating performance, thereby improving the operational reliability of the air-cooled heat pump unit. Attached Figure Description

[0050] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the conventional technology, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the conventional technology will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0051] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air-cooled heat pump unit in one embodiment;

[0052] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method for an air-cooled heat pump unit in one embodiment;

[0053] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating another embodiment of the control method for an air-cooled heat pump unit;

[0054] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating another embodiment of the control method for an air-cooled heat pump unit;

[0055] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the step of determining whether the operating parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frost mode in one embodiment.

[0056] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating another embodiment of the control method for an air-cooled heat pump unit;

[0057] Figure 7 This is a structural block diagram of the control device for an air-cooled heat pump unit in one embodiment;

[0058] Figure 8 This is a detailed structural schematic diagram of an air-cooled heat pump unit in one embodiment;

[0059] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the working process of an air-cooled heat pump unit in one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0060] To facilitate understanding of this application, a more complete description will be provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the present application. However, the present application can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure of this application will be thorough and complete.

[0061] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application.

[0062] It is understood that the terms “first,” “second,” etc., used in this application may be used herein to describe various elements, but these elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another.

[0063] It is understood that the term "connection" in the following embodiments should be understood as "electrical connection," "communication connection," etc., if the connected circuits, modules, units, etc., have electrical signal or data transmission with each other.

[0064] It is understandable that "at least one" refers to one or more, and "multiple" refers to two or more. "At least a part of an element" refers to part or all of an element.

[0065] When used herein, the singular forms of “a,” “an,” and “the” may also include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the terms “comprising / including” or “having,” etc., specify the presence of the stated features, wholes, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof. Meanwhile, the term “and / or” as used in this specification includes any and all combinations of the associated listed items.

[0066] In related technologies, defrosting control of fixed-frequency air-cooled heat pump units involves setting different defrosting intervals based on temperature gradients. When this interval is met along with other defrosting conditions, the unit enters defrosting mode. The defrosting duration is approximately 2-5 minutes. The defrosting interval plus the defrosting duration equals one heating-defrosting cycle. During this cycle, the fixed-frequency air-cooled heat pump unit operates in heating mode. However, due to the gradual accumulation of frost and the decrease in heating capacity, the reverse refrigerant circulation during defrosting causes a drop in the hot water outlet temperature, resulting in poor defrosting performance. Based on this, the inventors of this application propose a control method, device, system, computer equipment, storage medium, and computer program product for air-cooled heat pump units. In addition to defrosting mode, the air-cooled heat pump unit can be controlled to enter an anti-frost mode based on operating parameters. In anti-frost mode, the high-temperature gas generated by the compressor can be used to suppress frost on the heat exchanger, improving defrosting performance, thereby enhancing the heating performance and operational reliability of the air-cooled heat pump unit.

[0067] The air-cooled heat pump unit control method provided in this application is used to control air-cooled heat pump units. Generally, such as Figure 1 As shown, the air-cooled heat pump unit includes a compressor, an air heat exchanger, a water-side heat exchanger, a four-way valve, and an electronic expansion valve. In heating mode, the compressor discharges high-temperature, high-pressure gas. This gas reaches the water-side heat exchanger and exchanges heat with water to produce hot water. The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas is condensed here into a high-pressure, medium-temperature refrigerant liquid. This liquid is then throttled by the electronic expansion valve to become a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant, which enters the air heat exchanger, exchanges heat with the air, and evaporates into a low-temperature, low-pressure superheated gas. It then returns to the compressor via the four-way valve to complete the heating refrigerant cycle. The air heat exchanger includes fins and a fixed-frequency fan. The low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant enters the fins, and the fixed-frequency fan enhances heat exchange with the air. During this process, the refrigerant evaporation and heat exchange at the fins lowers the fin surface temperature. Water vapor in the air comes into contact with the low-temperature fin surface, causing frost to form. As the heating cycle continues, the frost layer gradually thickens.

[0068] The control method for air-cooled heat pump units can be executed by a controller. The controller can be a processor that is built into the air-cooled heat pump unit itself, or it can be another device that is set up separately, communicates with the air-cooled heat pump unit, and can exchange data with the air-cooled heat pump unit.

[0069] In one embodiment, a control method for an air-cooled heat pump unit is provided, exemplified by the method being executed by a controller. Figure 2 As shown, it includes the following steps:

[0070] Step 202: Obtain the operating parameters of the air-cooled heat pump unit.

[0071] The operating parameters of the air-cooled heat pump unit can include the status parameters of the air-cooled heat pump unit during operation, and the operating parameters can characterize the operating status of the air-cooled heat pump unit.

[0072] The type of operating parameter is not unique and can be determined according to actual needs. For example, the operating parameter can be the defrost temperature, which is the temperature detected by the defrost temperature sensor. The defrost temperature sensor is installed on the air heat exchanger, specifically on the fins, to detect the fin temperature as the defrost temperature. The defrost temperature sensor is connected to the controller and can send the detection results to the controller. It is understood that in other embodiments, the operating parameter may also include other types of parameters, as long as it is considered feasible by those skilled in the art.

[0073] Step 204: Determine whether the working parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frost mode.

[0074] After receiving the operating parameters, the controller compares the operating parameters with the preset values ​​and determines whether the operating parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frost mode based on the relationship between the operating parameters and the preset values.

[0075] Taking defrost temperature as an example, after receiving the defrost temperature, the controller compares it with the anti-frost setting temperature. If the defrost temperature is less than or equal to the anti-frost setting temperature, it is determined that the defrost temperature meets the conditions for entering the anti-frost mode. It can be understood that in other embodiments, when the working parameter is of other types, the controller can combine other preset values ​​to determine whether the working parameter meets the conditions for entering the anti-frost mode.

[0076] If so, proceed to step 206 to control the air-cooled heat pump unit to enter the anti-frost mode.

[0077] If the operating parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frost mode, the controller will control the air-cooled heat pump unit to enter the anti-frost mode. In the anti-frost mode, one or more actions can be performed on the air-cooled heat pump unit.

[0078] Step 208: In the anti-frost mode, control the air heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit to directly circulate the gas generated by the compressor of the air-cooled heat pump unit.

[0079] For example, in this embodiment, in the anti-frost mode, the gas generated by the compressor of the air-cooled heat pump unit is controlled to directly heat the air of the air-cooled heat pump unit.

[0080] The compressor generates high-temperature, high-pressure gas. Passing this gas through an air heat exchanger increases the exchanger's temperature, inhibiting frost formation and thus preventing frosting. Furthermore, a first switch is installed on the pipeline connecting the compressor and the air heat exchanger. This first switch is connected to a controller. When the controller energizes the first switch, the high-temperature, high-pressure gas generated by the compressor can be rapidly transferred to the air heat exchanger. Moreover, the location of the high-temperature, high-pressure gas's transfer to the air heat exchanger is not fixed; it can be transferred to the interior or the outer surface of the air heat exchanger, as long as it effectively inhibits frost formation.

[0081] The aforementioned control method for air-cooled heat pump units involves acquiring the operating parameters of the unit and determining whether these parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frost mode. If so, the unit is controlled to enter the anti-frost mode. In this mode, the air-cooled heat pump unit's compressor gas is directly introduced into the air heat exchanger. By controlling the air-cooled heat pump unit's compressor gas to directly enter the anti-frost mode after determining that the operating parameters meet the conditions, frost can be suppressed before frosting occurs by rapidly introducing hot air. This method can delay frosting time, reduce frost thickness, and minimize the impact of frosting and defrosting on heating performance, thereby improving the operational reliability of the air-cooled heat pump unit.

[0082] In one embodiment, such as Figure 3 As shown, the control method for air-cooled heat pump units also includes step 308.

[0083] Step 308: In the anti-frost mode, control the throttling element of the air-cooled heat pump unit to open.

[0084] The air heat exchanger is connected to the water-side heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit through a throttling element.

[0085] In anti-frost mode, the high-temperature, high-pressure gas generated by the compressor is directly passed to the air heat exchanger, where it is condensed into a high-pressure, medium-temperature refrigerant liquid. Further, the controller opens the throttling element of the air-cooled heat pump unit, allowing the high-pressure, medium-temperature refrigerant liquid to pass through the throttling element, becoming a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant, which is then transferred to the water-side heat exchanger. Using a throttling element reduces refrigerant evaporation.

[0086] In this embodiment, in the anti-frost mode, the throttling element of the air-cooled heat pump unit is opened. The throttling element can throttle the high-pressure, medium-temperature refrigerant into a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant, and can also reduce the evaporation of refrigerant.

[0087] In one embodiment, such as Figure 3 As shown, the control method for air-cooled heat pump units also includes step 310.

[0088] Step 310: In the anti-frost mode, control the compressor to run at full load.

[0089] Full-load operation refers to the compressor operating at the preset upper speed limit, which is the maximum speed that the compressor can reach under normal operation.

[0090] In anti-frost mode, the compressor is controlled to run at full load, thereby accelerating the generation of high-temperature, high-pressure gas and increasing the amount of such gas produced. This allows the controller to better suppress frosting on the air heat exchanger when the gas generated by the compressor is directly supplied to it.

[0091] In this embodiment, in the anti-frost mode, controlling the compressor to run at full load can control the compressor to output at maximum load and extend the frosting start time.

[0092] In one embodiment, such as Figure 4 As shown, after step 206, the air-cooled heat pump unit control method also includes step 406.

[0093] Step 406: After the anti-frost mode has been running for a preset time, control the air-cooled heat pump unit to exit the anti-frost mode.

[0094] The controller starts timing when the air-cooled heat pump unit enters the anti-frost mode. After the anti-frost mode has been running for a preset time, the controller exits the anti-frost mode. The preset anti-frost time is not unique; for example, it can be 30 seconds.

[0095] In this embodiment, after the anti-frost mode has been running for a preset anti-frost time, the air-cooled heat pump unit is controlled to exit the anti-frost mode. Controlling the anti-frost mode's running time within the preset anti-frost time reduces the impact on water temperature drop.

[0096] In one embodiment, operating parameters include low-pressure, defrost temperature, and cumulative compressor operating time, such as... Figure 5 As shown, step 204 includes steps 504 to 508.

[0097] Step 504: Determine whether the low pressure is less than or equal to the target low pressure for suppressing frosting.

[0098] The low-pressure value is detected by a pressure sensor and sent to the controller. The controller compares the low-pressure value with the target low-pressure value for suppressing frost formation. If the low-pressure value is less than or equal to the target low-pressure value for suppressing frost formation, the low-pressure value is considered to meet the conditions for entering the frost suppression mode. The target low-pressure value for suppressing frost formation can be the sum of the target low-pressure value for starting frost formation and the deviation value of the target pressure for suppressing frost formation. The target low-pressure value for starting frost formation can be any value within the range of 0 to 150 kPa, including the endpoints of 0 kPa and 150 kPa. The deviation value of the target pressure for suppressing frost formation can be any value within the range of 0 to 50 kPa, including the endpoints of 0 kPa and 50 kPa.

[0099] Step 506: Determine whether the defrosting temperature is less than or equal to the anti-frosting setting temperature.

[0100] The defrost temperature is the temperature detected by the defrost temperature sensor. This sensor is installed on the air heat exchanger, specifically on the fins, to detect the fin temperature as the defrost temperature. The sensor is connected to the controller, which sends the detection result. The controller compares the defrost temperature with the defrost suppression setting temperature. If the defrost temperature is less than or equal to the defrost suppression setting temperature, the defrost temperature is considered to meet the conditions for entering the defrost suppression mode. The defrost suppression setting temperature can be the sum of the deviations between the initial defrost temperature and the target defrost suppression temperature. The initial defrost temperature can be any value within the range of -10℃ to 10℃, including the endpoints -10℃ and 10℃. The target defrost suppression temperature can be any value within the range of 0℃ to 5℃, including the endpoints 0℃ and 5℃.

[0101] Step 508: Determine whether the cumulative running time of the compressor is greater than or equal to the minimum heating time of the compressor, and less than the defrosting interval of the compressor.

[0102] The controller can time the compressor's operating time. If the compressor's cumulative operating time is greater than or equal to the minimum compressor heating time and less than the compressor defrost interval, then the cumulative compressor operating time is considered to meet the conditions for entering the anti-frost mode. The values ​​of the minimum compressor heating time and the compressor defrost interval are not unique. For example, the minimum compressor heating time can be any value within 0 to 30 minutes, including the endpoint values ​​of 0 and 30 minutes, and the compressor defrost interval can be any value within 0 to 90 minutes, including the endpoint values ​​of 0 and 90 minutes.

[0103] It is understood that when the judgment conditions in steps 504, 506, and 508 are simultaneously met—that is, the low-pressure is less than or equal to the target low-pressure for suppressing frosting, the defrosting temperature is less than or equal to the set temperature for suppressing frosting, and the cumulative compressor running time is greater than or equal to the minimum compressor heating running time and less than the compressor defrosting interval—the operating parameters can be considered to meet the conditions for entering the frosting suppression mode. If any one of the judgment conditions in steps 504, 506, and 508 is not met, the operating parameters are considered not to meet the conditions for entering the frosting suppression mode.

[0104] In this embodiment, the operating parameters include low pressure, defrosting temperature, and compressor cumulative running time. By determining whether multiple types of operating parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frost mode, it can be determined whether the air-cooled heat pump unit needs to be controlled to enter the anti-frost mode, thereby improving the control accuracy of the air-cooled heat pump unit.

[0105] In one embodiment, such as Figure 6 As shown, the control method for air-cooled heat pump units also includes step 602.

[0106] Step 602: In heating mode, control the throttling element of the air-cooled heat pump unit to close, and control the electronic expansion valve of the air-cooled heat pump unit to open.

[0107] The air heat exchanger is connected to the water-side heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit via a throttling element and also via an electronic expansion valve. The throttling element and the electronic expansion valve are on two different branches, allowing the air heat exchanger to be connected to the water-side heat exchanger either through the throttling element or through the electronic expansion valve.

[0108] In heating mode, the high-temperature, high-pressure gas generated by the compressor is directly passed to the air heat exchanger, where it is condensed into a high-pressure, medium-temperature refrigerant liquid. Further, the controller closes the throttling element of the air-cooled heat pump unit and opens its electronic expansion valve. The high-pressure, medium-temperature refrigerant liquid, after being throttled by the electronic expansion valve, becomes a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant, which is then transferred to the water-side heat exchanger.

[0109] In this embodiment, during heating mode, the throttling element of the air-cooled heat pump unit is closed, while the electronic expansion valve is opened. This allows the high-pressure, medium-temperature refrigerant liquid generated by the air heat exchanger to be throttled by the electronic expansion valve and then transferred to the water-side heat exchanger. The throttling element and the electronic expansion valve are located on two different branches. When the air-cooled heat pump unit is in different operating modes, the branch containing the throttling element or the branch containing the electronic expansion valve can be controlled to open, thereby improving the performance of the air-cooled heat pump unit in different operating modes.

[0110] It should be understood that although the steps in the flowcharts of the embodiments described above are shown sequentially according to the arrows, these steps are not necessarily executed in the order indicated by the arrows. Unless explicitly stated herein, there is no strict order restriction on the execution of these steps, and they can be executed in other orders. Moreover, at least some steps in the flowcharts of the embodiments described above may include multiple steps or multiple stages. These steps or stages are not necessarily completed at the same time, but can be executed at different times. The execution order of these steps or stages is not necessarily sequential, but can be performed alternately or in turn with other steps or at least some of the steps or stages of other steps.

[0111] Based on the same inventive concept, this application also provides an air-cooled heat pump unit control device for implementing the aforementioned air-cooled heat pump unit control method. The solution provided by this device is similar to the implementation described in the above method; therefore, the specific limitations in one or more air-cooled heat pump unit control device embodiments provided below can be found in the limitations of the air-cooled heat pump unit control method described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0112] In one embodiment, such as Figure 7 As shown, a control device for an air-cooled heat pump unit is provided, including a parameter acquisition module 702, a judgment module 704, a mode control module 706, and a mode execution module 708. The parameter acquisition module 702 is used to acquire the operating parameters of the air-cooled heat pump unit. The judgment module 704 is used to determine whether the operating parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frost mode. The mode control module 706 is used to control the air-cooled heat pump unit to enter the anti-frost mode if the operating parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frost mode. The mode execution module 708 is used to control the air heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit to directly blow the gas generated by the compressor of the air-cooled heat pump unit in the anti-frost mode.

[0113] In one embodiment, the mode execution module is also used to control the opening of the throttling element of the air-cooled heat pump unit in the anti-frost mode; the air heat exchanger is connected to the water-side heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit through the throttling element.

[0114] In one embodiment, the mode execution module is also used to control the compressor to run at full load in the anti-frost mode.

[0115] In one embodiment, the air-cooled heat pump unit control device further includes a mode exit module, which is used to control the air-cooled heat pump unit to exit the anti-frost mode after the anti-frost mode operation time reaches the preset anti-frost operation time.

[0116] In one embodiment, the operating parameters include low pressure, defrost temperature, and compressor cumulative running time. The judgment module is also used to determine whether the low pressure is less than or equal to the target low pressure for suppressing frosting; and whether the defrost temperature is less than or equal to the set temperature for suppressing frosting; and whether the compressor cumulative running time is greater than or equal to the minimum compressor heating operation time and less than the compressor defrost interval time.

[0117] In one embodiment, the air-cooled heat pump unit control device further includes a heating control module, which is used to control the throttling element of the air-cooled heat pump unit to close and the electronic expansion valve of the air-cooled heat pump unit to open in heating mode; the air heat exchanger is connected to the water-side heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit through the throttling element and is also connected to the water-side heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit through the electronic expansion valve.

[0118] Each module in the aforementioned air-cooled heat pump unit control device can be implemented entirely or partially through software, hardware, or a combination thereof. These modules can be embedded in the processor of a computer device in hardware form or independent of it, or stored in the memory of a computer device in software form, so that the processor can call and execute the corresponding operations of each module.

[0119] In one embodiment, an air-cooled heat pump system is provided, including an air-cooled heat pump unit and a controller. The air-cooled heat pump unit includes a compressor, a first switch, an air heat exchanger, a water-side heat exchanger, a four-way valve, a second switch, a third switch, and an electronic expansion valve. The compressor is connected to the air heat exchanger via the first switch, and the compressor is sequentially connected to the air heat exchanger via the third switch, the four-way valve, and the second switch. The air heat exchanger is connected to the water-side heat exchanger via the electronic expansion valve, and the water-side heat exchanger is connected to the compressor via the four-way valve. The compressor, the first switch, the second switch, the four-way valve, and the electronic expansion valve are all connected to the controller, which is used to control the air-cooled heat pump unit according to the method of any of the above embodiments. Exemplarily, the controller can energize the first switch and de-energize the second and third switches, thereby allowing the gas generated by the compressor of the air-cooled heat pump unit to directly flow to the air heat exchanger.

[0120] In one embodiment, the air-cooled heat pump unit further includes a throttling element. The air heat exchanger is connected to the water-side heat exchanger via the throttling element, which is connected to a controller. The controller controls the opening and closing of the throttling element. The throttling element and the electronic expansion valve are on two different branches. The air heat exchanger can be connected to the water-side heat exchanger either through the throttling element or through the electronic expansion valve. In anti-frost mode, the controller can activate the throttling element and deactivate the electronic expansion valve. In heating mode, the controller can deactivate the throttling element and activate the electronic expansion valve. When the air-cooled heat pump unit is in different operating modes, the controller can control the branch containing the throttling element or the branch containing the electronic expansion valve to be open, thereby improving the performance of the air-cooled heat pump unit in different operating modes.

[0121] Specifically, in one embodiment, the throttling element includes a throttling tube and a fourth switch. The fourth switch is connected to the throttling tube and also to a controller. The controller can control the fourth switch to be energized or de-energized, and the fourth switch can control whether the throttling tube is in use. When the controller controls the fourth switch to be energized, the throttling tube is in use; when the controller controls the fourth switch to be de-energized, the throttling tube is not in use. It is understood that in other embodiments, the throttling element can also have other structures, as long as those skilled in the art believe it is feasible.

[0122] In one embodiment, the controller is also configured to, in the anti-frost mode, de-energize the four-way valve, de-energize the second and third switches, energize the first and fourth switches, and control the electronic expansion valve to close.

[0123] At this time, the pipeline containing the first switch is directly connected to the air heat exchanger. Compared to going through the four-way valve and its related pipelines, this shortens the distance that the high-temperature, high-pressure gas generated by the compressor must travel to the air heat exchanger. Furthermore, the electronic expansion valve 5 is closed, and the throttling pipe 5' is used to reduce the amount of evaporating refrigerant. Simultaneously, after entering the anti-frost mode, the controller controls the compressor to quickly load to full capacity, achieving maximum load output and the shortest distance to ensure hot air reaches the air heat exchanger directly, thus extending the time before frosting begins.

[0124] In one embodiment, the controller is also used to energize the four-way valve, the second and third switches, and the first and fourth switches in heating mode, and to open the electronic expansion valve.

[0125] At this point, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas discharged from the compressor enters the water-side heat exchanger through the four-way valve to exchange heat with water and produce hot water. The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas is condensed into a high-pressure, medium-temperature refrigerant liquid here. After being throttled by the electronic expansion valve, it becomes a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant that enters the air heat exchanger to exchange heat with the air. It evaporates into a low-temperature, low-pressure superheated gas and then returns to the compressor through the four-way valve, completing the heating refrigerant cycle.

[0126] In one embodiment, the controller is also used to control the four-way valve to be de-energized, the second and third switches to be energized, the first and fourth switches to be de-energized, and the electronic expansion valve to be opened in defrosting mode.

[0127] When defrosting mode is entered, the four-way valve is de-energized and switches direction. The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas discharged from the compressor passes through the four-way valve into the air heat exchanger for heat exchange. The high-temperature refrigerant gas dissolves the frost layer, achieving the defrosting purpose. Here, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas is condensed into high-pressure, medium-temperature refrigerant liquid. After being throttled by the electronic expansion valve, it becomes low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant. It then evaporates into superheated refrigerant gas in the water-side heat exchanger and enters the compressor through the four-way valve, completing one defrosting cycle.

[0128] To better understand the above embodiments, a detailed explanation is provided below with reference to a specific embodiment. In one embodiment, an air-cooled heat pump system includes an air-cooled heat pump unit and a controller, such as... Figure 8 As shown, the air-cooled heat pump unit includes a compressor, a first switch, an air heat exchanger, a water-side heat exchanger 6, a four-way valve 2, a second switch, a third switch, an electronic expansion valve 5, and a throttling element. The compressor is a fixed-frequency compressor 1, the air heat exchanger includes fins 3 and a fixed-frequency fan 4, and the throttling element includes a fourth switch and a throttling pipe 5'. The first switch is a solenoid valve YV1, the second switch is a solenoid valve YV2, the third switch is a solenoid valve YV3, and the fourth switch is a solenoid valve YV4.

[0129] When the air-cooled heat pump unit is in heating mode, four-way valve 2 is energized, YV2 and YV3 are energized, and YV1 and YV4 are de-energized. The medium flow direction is: compressor 1 → YV3 → four-way valve 2 → water-side heat exchanger 6 → electronic expansion valve 5 → air heat exchanger (fins 3 and fixed-frequency fan 4) → YV2 → four-way valve 2 → compressor 1.

[0130] Specifically, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas discharged from compressor 1 enters the water-side heat exchanger 6 through ports D and E of the four-way valve 2, where it exchanges heat with water to produce hot water. Here, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas is condensed into a high-pressure, medium-temperature refrigerant liquid. This liquid is then throttled by the electronic expansion valve 5 to become a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant, which enters the fins 3 and, under the action of the fixed-frequency fan 4, enhances its heat exchange with the air, evaporating into a low-temperature, low-pressure superheated gas. This gas then returns to compressor 1 through ports C and S of the four-way valve to complete the heating refrigerant cycle. During this process, the refrigerant evaporation and heat exchange at the fins lowers the fin surface temperature. Water vapor in the air comes into contact with the low-temperature fin surface, causing frost to form. As the heating cycle continues, the frost layer gradually thickens.

[0131] When the air-cooled heat pump unit is in defrost mode, the four-way valve is de-energized, YV2 and YV3 are energized, and YV1 and YV4 are de-energized. The medium flow direction is: compressor 1 → YV3 → four-way valve 2 → YV2 → air heat exchanger (fins 3 and fixed frequency fan 4) → electronic expansion valve 5 → water-side heat exchanger 6 → four-way valve 2 → compressor 1.

[0132] Specifically, upon entering defrost mode, the four-way valve switches direction, allowing the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas discharged from compressor 1 to enter the fins 3 for heat exchange through ports D and C of the four-way valve 2. The high-temperature refrigerant gas dissolves the frost layer, achieving the defrosting purpose. The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas is condensed here into a high-pressure, medium-temperature refrigerant liquid, which is then throttled by the electronic expansion valve 5 to become a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant. Under the action of the water-side heat exchanger 6, it evaporates into superheated refrigerant gas, which then enters compressor 1 through ports E and S of the four-way valve 2, completing one defrost cycle.

[0133] When the air-cooled heat pump unit enters the anti-frost mode, such as Figure 9 As shown, the four-way valve is de-energized, YV2 and YV3 are de-energized, and YV1 and YV4 are energized. Electronic expansion valve 5 is closed. At this time, the solenoid valve pipeline containing solenoid valve YV1 directly connects to the air heat exchanger, shortening the distance the hot air travels to the air heat exchanger compared to going through the four-way valve and its related pipelines. With electronic expansion valve 5 closed, throttling pipe 5' is used to reduce refrigerant evaporation. Simultaneously, after entering the anti-frost mode, the compressor quickly loads to full load, achieving maximum load output and the shortest distance to directly reach the air heat exchanger, extending the frosting start time. The high-temperature gas generated by the compressor can also bypass to the heat exchanger surface. After entering the anti-frost mode, the running time t1 is controlled within 30 seconds, reducing the impact on water temperature drop.

[0134] Specifically, the conditions for suppressing the frosting mode include:

[0135] 1) Low pressure ≤ target low pressure for suppressing frosting (P1+P0);

[0136] 2) The defrosting temperature detected by the defrosting temperature sensor is ≤ the set temperature for suppressing frost formation (T1+T0);

[0137] 3) X ≤ cumulative operating time of the compressor < Y;

[0138] Once the above conditions are met, the controller will control the air-cooled heat pump unit to enter the anti-frost mode. The controller will execute the anti-frost mode control action and will detect the cumulative running time of the compressor. After the defrosting is completed, the cumulative running time of the compressor will be reset to zero.

[0139] It is understandable that when the four-way valve switches from heating mode to anti-frost mode, the four-way valve is de-energized, solenoid valve YV1 is energized, and YV2 and YV3 are de-energized. The compressor quickly loads to full load, runs for t1 time, exits the anti-frost mode, and switches to heating mode.

[0140] The definitions and values ​​of the above parameters can be found in Table 1:

[0141]

[0142] Table 1

[0143] The air-cooled heat pump unit control method and air-cooled heat pump equipment provided in this application determine whether to enter the anti-frost mode by detecting unit operating parameters such as pressure and temperature. In the anti-frost mode, high-temperature gas generated by the unit is used to suppress frost on the fins, eliminating the need for additional power supply for heating, resulting in low energy consumption. The process flow and control scheme are clear, simple, and highly feasible. By rapidly introducing hot gas before frost formation, the method suppresses frost formation with a short introduction time and a large amount of hot gas. This method can delay frost formation time, reduce frost thickness, and minimize the impact of frost formation and defrosting on heating performance.

[0144] In one embodiment, a computer device is also provided, including a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to implement the steps in the above method embodiments.

[0145] In one embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium is provided having a computer program stored thereon that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps in the above method embodiments.

[0146] In one embodiment, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps in the above method embodiments.

[0147] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the above methods. Any references to memory, databases, or other media used in the embodiments provided in this application can include at least one of non-volatile and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can include read-only memory (ROM), magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash memory, optical memory, high-density embedded non-volatile memory, resistive random access memory (ReRAM), magnetic random access memory (MRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), phase change memory (PCM), graphene memory, etc. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory, etc. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM can take many forms, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) or Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM). The databases involved in the embodiments provided in this application may include at least one type of relational database and non-relational database. Non-relational databases may include, but are not limited to, blockchain-based distributed databases. The processors involved in the embodiments provided in this application may be general-purpose processors, central processing units, graphics processing units, digital signal processors, programmable logic devices, quantum computing-based data processing logic devices, etc., and are not limited to these.

[0148] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "some embodiments," "other embodiments," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative descriptions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiments or examples.

[0149] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0150] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these modifications and improvements all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A control method for an air-cooled heat pump unit, characterized in that, include: Obtain the operating parameters of the air-cooled heat pump unit; these operating parameters include low-pressure, defrost temperature, and cumulative compressor operating time. Determine whether the low pressure is less than or equal to the target low pressure for suppressing frosting; determine whether the defrosting temperature is less than or equal to the set temperature for suppressing frosting; and determine whether the cumulative running time of the compressor is greater than or equal to the minimum heating time of the compressor, and less than the defrosting interval time of the compressor. If so, control the air-cooled heat pump unit to enter the anti-frost mode; In the anti-frost mode, the gas generated by the compressor of the air-cooled heat pump unit is directly connected to the air heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit. After the anti-frost mode has been running for a preset time, the air-cooled heat pump unit is controlled to exit the anti-frost mode.

2. The control method for an air-cooled heat pump unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: In the anti-frost mode, the throttling element of the air-cooled heat pump unit is opened; the air heat exchanger is connected to the water-side heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit through the throttling element.

3. The control method for an air-cooled heat pump unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: In the anti-frost mode, the compressor is controlled to run at full load.

4. The control method for an air-cooled heat pump unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: In heating mode, the throttling element of the air-cooled heat pump unit is closed, and the electronic expansion valve of the air-cooled heat pump unit is opened; the air heat exchanger is connected to the water-side heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit through the throttling element, and is also connected to the water-side heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit through the electronic expansion valve.

5. A control device for an air-cooled heat pump unit, characterized in that, The device includes: The parameter acquisition module is used to acquire the operating parameters of the air-cooled heat pump unit; The judgment module is used to determine whether the working parameters meet the conditions for entering the anti-frost mode; The mode control module is used to control the air-cooled heat pump unit to enter the anti-frost mode if the condition is met. The mode execution module is used to control the gas generated by the compressor of the air-cooled heat pump unit to be directly connected to the air heat exchanger of the air-cooled heat pump unit in the anti-frost mode.

6. An air-cooled heat pump system, characterized in that, The system includes an air-cooled heat pump unit and a controller. The air-cooled heat pump unit includes a compressor, a first switch, an air heat exchanger, a water-side heat exchanger, a four-way valve, a second switch, a third switch, and an electronic expansion valve. The compressor is connected to the air heat exchanger through the first switch. The compressor is connected to the air heat exchanger sequentially through the third switch, the four-way valve, and the second switch. The air heat exchanger is connected to the water-side heat exchanger through the electronic expansion valve. The water-side heat exchanger is connected to the compressor through the four-way valve. The compressor, the first switch, the second switch, the four-way valve, and the electronic expansion valve are all connected to the controller, which is used to control the air-cooled heat pump unit according to any one of claims 1-4.

7. The air-cooled heat pump system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The air-cooled heat pump unit also includes a throttling element. The air heat exchanger is connected to the water-side heat exchanger through the throttling element. The throttling element is connected to the controller, which is used to control the throttling element to open or close.

8. The air-cooled heat pump system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The throttling element includes a throttling tube and a fourth switch, wherein the fourth switch is connected to the throttling tube and the controller.

9. The air-cooled heat pump system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The controller is also used to de-energize the four-way valve, the second and third switches, and the first and fourth switches in the anti-frost mode, and to close the electronic expansion valve.

10. The air-cooled heat pump system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The controller is also used to, in heating mode, energize the four-way valve, energize the second and third switches, de-energize the first and fourth switches, and control the electronic expansion valve to open.

11. The air-cooled heat pump system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The controller is also used to control the four-way valve to be de-energized, the second and third switches to be energized, the first and fourth switches to be de-energized, and the electronic expansion valve to be opened in defrosting mode.

12. A computer device comprising a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program, characterized in that, When the processor executes the computer program, it implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

13. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

14. A computer program product, comprising a computer program, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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