Method and apparatus for controlling an air conditioner, air conditioner, condensate drain apparatus

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of air conditioner control, and discloses a method for controlling an air conditioner, a condensate water discharge device is arranged in an indoor unit of the air conditioner, the condensate water discharge device is used for storing condensate water generated when the indoor unit is cooled and controlled to discharge the condensate water, a magnetic induction device, a magnetic induction float ball and a sleeve are arranged in the condensate water discharge device, the magnetic induction float ball is arranged in the sleeve, a plurality of through holes are arranged on a sleeve barrel of the sleeve, and the magnetic induction device is used for monitoring the magnetic field intensity of the magnetic induction float ball; the method comprises the following steps: acquiring the first magnetic field intensity of the magnetic induction float ball in the sleeve through the magnetic induction device, and controlling the condensate water discharge device to discharge the condensate water according to the first magnetic field intensity. In this way, the magnetic field intensity of the magnetic induction float ball can more accurately represent the actual condensate water level, and the condensate water discharge control can be more accurately performed. The application further discloses a device for controlling the air conditioner, the air conditioner and the condensate water discharge device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of air conditioner control technology, such as a method and apparatus for controlling an air conditioner, an air conditioner, and a condensate draining device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, air conditioners are widely used and have become a necessity of daily life. Due to technological advancements and climate change, more and more customers have a great demand for indoor units of air conditioners with high capacity and cooling power, such as 10-horsepower and 20-horsepower units, which are commonplace. While such high-capacity machines meet users' cooling needs, they also bring another problem that cannot be ignored: due to the large air volume and cooling load, the indoor units of air conditioners will inevitably produce a lot of condensate, which needs to be drained in a timely manner.

[0003] In the process of implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, at least the following problems were found in the related art:

[0004] In related technologies, condensate is typically drained from the drip tray by gravity using a drain pipe, while a float switch monitors the water level in the tray. An alarm is triggered or a drain pump is used to remove the condensate when the water level reaches a preset level. However, due to manufacturing processes and material limitations, the float switch is prone to tilting or jamming, meaning it cannot guarantee 100% sensitivity in detecting condensate levels. This makes it difficult for the air conditioner to accurately control drainage, leading to condensate overflow from the indoor unit and causing unpredictable damage.

[0005] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this application, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] 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.

[0007] This disclosure provides a method and apparatus for controlling an air conditioner, an air conditioner, and a condensate drain device, enabling more accurate control of condensate drain from the air conditioner.

[0008] In some embodiments, the method for controlling an air conditioner includes an indoor unit equipped with a condensate drain device for storing condensate generated during cooling and for controlled condensate draining. The condensate drain device includes a magnetic induction device, a magnetic induction float ball, and a sleeve. The magnetic induction float ball is disposed within the sleeve, and the sleeve has multiple through holes. The magnetic induction device monitors the magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball. The method includes: obtaining a first magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball within the sleeve using the magnetic induction device, and controlling the condensate drain device to drain condensate based on the first magnetic field strength.

[0009] In some embodiments, the condensate discharge device is provided with a water tray outlet, and the condensate discharge device is controlled to discharge condensate according to the first magnetic field strength, including: when the first magnetic field strength is less than a first preset threshold, controlling the water tray outlet to open to discharge condensate.

[0010] In some embodiments, the condensate discharge device is further provided with a drain pump and a suction pipe, one end of the suction pipe is connected to the drain pump, and the other end of the suction pipe is immersed in the condensate stored in the condensate discharge device. The drain pump is used for controlled auxiliary drainage. Controlling the condensate discharge device to discharge condensate according to the first magnetic field strength includes: when the first magnetic field strength is greater than or equal to a first preset threshold, controlling the outlet of the water receiving tray to open to discharge condensate, and controlling the drain pump to perform auxiliary drainage.

[0011] In some embodiments, after the controlled drainage pump performs auxiliary drainage, the method further includes: obtaining the second magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball inside the sleeve through a magnetic induction device; and controlling the condensate drainage device to discharge condensate based on the second magnetic field strength.

[0012] In some embodiments, controlling the condensate discharge device to discharge condensate based on the second magnetic field strength includes: when the second magnetic field strength is greater than the first magnetic field strength, controlling the drainage pump to increase the drainage volume of the drainage pump until the second magnetic field strength is less than or equal to the first preset threshold.

[0013] In some embodiments, controlling the condensate draining device to drain condensate based on the second magnetic field strength includes: controlling the air conditioner to stop operating and issuing a drainage fault warning when the second magnetic field strength is greater than or equal to a second preset threshold.

[0014] In some embodiments, controlling the condensate discharge device to discharge condensate based on the second magnetic field strength includes: controlling the drain pump to shut down when the second magnetic field strength is less than or equal to the first preset threshold.

[0015] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes: an air conditioner body; a condensate drain device disposed in the indoor unit of the air conditioner, the condensate drain device being used to store condensate generated during the cooling process of the indoor unit and to discharge the condensate in a controlled manner; the condensate drain device being provided with a magnetic induction device, a magnetic induction float ball, and a sleeve, the magnetic induction float ball being disposed inside the sleeve, the sleeve having a plurality of through holes, and the magnetic induction device being used to monitor the magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball; and the device for controlling the air conditioner as described above being installed in the air conditioner body.

[0016] In some embodiments, the condensate drain device is used to store condensate generated during indoor cooling and to discharge condensate in a controlled manner; the condensate drain device is provided with a magnetic induction device, a magnetic induction float ball and a sleeve, the magnetic induction float ball is disposed inside the sleeve, and the sleeve has multiple through holes on its body; the magnetic induction device is used to monitor the magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball.

[0017] The method and apparatus for controlling an air conditioner, the air conditioner itself, and the condensate draining device provided in this disclosure can achieve the following technical effects: A first magnetic field strength of a magnetically inductive float ball inside the sleeve is obtained through a magnetic induction device, and the condensate draining device is controlled to drain condensate based on this first magnetic field strength. This is because the magnetic field strength monitored by the magnetic induction device changes with the height of the magnetically inductive float ball inside the sleeve. Furthermore, the magnetically inductive float ball is less likely to tilt or get stuck, leading to inaccurate condensate level detection. The magnetic field strength of the magnetically inductive float ball can more accurately represent the actual condensate level. Controlling the condensate draining device based on the first magnetic field strength enables more accurate condensate draining control.

[0018] The above general description and the description below are exemplary and illustrative only and are not intended to limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0019] 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:

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a condensate drainage device;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a method for controlling an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another condensate drain device;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of another method for controlling an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a device for controlling an air conditioner provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0025] Figure 6 This is a structural diagram of an air conditioner.

[0026] Figure label:

[0027] 1: Water receiving tray; 2: Magnetic induction float ball; 3: Sleeve; 4: Magnetic induction device; 5: Water receiving tray outlet; 6: Drain pump; 7: Suction pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] Unless otherwise stated, the term "multiple" means two or more.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] The term "correspondence" can refer to an association or binding relationship. The correspondence between A and B means that there is an association or binding relationship between A and B.

[0034] In this embodiment of the disclosure, combined with Figure 1 As shown, Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a condensate drain device. The condensate drain device stores the condensate generated during indoor refrigeration and discharges it in a controlled manner. The condensate drain device includes a magnetic induction device, a magnetic induction float, and a sleeve. The magnetic induction float is housed inside the sleeve, which has multiple through holes. The height of the magnetic induction float changes with the condensate level. The magnetic induction device monitors the magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float, and the monitored magnetic field strength changes with the height of the magnetic induction float. Figure 1 The condensate drainage device includes a water collection tray 1, a magnetic induction float 2, a sleeve 3, and a magnetic induction device 4. The condensate drainage device stores the condensate generated during the refrigeration process through the water collection tray 1. The water collection tray 1 also has a water collection tray outlet 5. The condensate drainage device is used to controllably open the water collection tray outlet 5 to drain the condensate. The sleeve 3 has multiple through holes in its body and bottom, and is vertically positioned within the water collection tray 1. The water collection tray outlet 5 is used for controlled condensate drainage. The magnetic induction float 2 is positioned inside the sleeve 3 and rises or falls with changes in the condensate level. The magnetic induction device 4 is located at the top of the sleeve 3 and is used to monitor the magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float 2. Because the diameter of the magnetic induction float 2 is smaller than the diameter of the sleeve 3, the magnetic induction float 2 can float up and down within the sleeve 3. Since the height of the magnetic induction float changes with the condensate level, the magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float also changes with the height. Using the magnetic field strength of a magnetically inductive float to characterize the condensate level in the drip tray reduces the likelihood of misjudging the condensate level and provides a more accurate representation of the true condensate level. This makes condensate drainage control based on the initial magnetic field strength more accurate.

[0035] Combination Figure 2 As shown, this disclosure provides a method for controlling an air conditioner. The indoor unit of the air conditioner is equipped with a condensate drain device for storing condensate generated during cooling and for controlled condensate draining. The condensate drain device includes a magnetic induction device, a magnetic induction float ball, and a sleeve. The magnetic induction float ball is disposed within the sleeve, and the sleeve has multiple through holes. The magnetic induction device monitors the magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball. The method includes:

[0036] In step S201, the air conditioner obtains the first magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball inside the sleeve through the magnetic induction device.

[0037] In step S202, the air conditioner controls the condensate discharge device to discharge condensate according to the strength of the first magnetic field.

[0038] The method for controlling an air conditioner provided in this embodiment acquires the first magnetic field strength of a magnetically inductive float ball inside the sleeve via a magnetic induction device, and controls the condensate drain device to discharge condensate based on the first magnetic field strength. This is advantageous because the magnetic field strength monitored by the magnetic induction device changes with the height of the magnetically inductive float ball inside the sleeve. Furthermore, the magnetically inductive float ball is less prone to tilting or getting stuck, which could lead to inaccurate condensate level detection. The magnetic field strength of the magnetically inductive float ball provides a more accurate representation of the actual condensate level. Controlling the condensate drain device based on the first magnetic field strength achieves more accurate condensate discharge control.

[0039] In some embodiments, the first magnetic field strength is the magnetic field strength monitored by the air conditioner before condensate drainage.

[0040] In some embodiments, the diameter of the magnetic induction float ball is smaller than the diameter of the sleeve, allowing the magnetic induction float ball to float up and down within the sleeve. The magnetic induction float ball is coated with a special coating, enabling the magnetic field strength on the float ball to be monitored by a magnetic induction device. Multiple through holes are provided in the body and bottom of the sleeve, allowing condensate from the drip tray to enter the sleeve, thus causing the height of the magnetic induction float ball to change with the condensate level.

[0041] Furthermore, the condensate drain device is equipped with a drip tray outlet. The air conditioner controls the condensate drain device to drain condensate based on the strength of a first magnetic field, including: when the strength of the first magnetic field is less than a first preset threshold, the air conditioner controls the drip tray outlet to open to drain the condensate. Thus, when the strength of the first magnetic field is less than the first preset threshold, it is considered that the condensate level in the drip tray is below the warning level, and opening the drip tray outlet at this time will achieve condensate drainage.

[0042] Combination Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another condensate drainage device. Figure 3The condensate drain device is equipped with a drain pump 6 and a suction pipe 7. One end of the suction pipe 7 is connected to the drain pump 6, and the other end is immersed in the condensate stored in the condensate drain device. The drain pump 6 is used for controlled auxiliary drainage. A water receiving tray 1 has a water receiving tray outlet 5 and is used to store condensate generated during indoor cooling. The sleeve 3 has multiple through holes in its body and bottom, and is vertically positioned in the water receiving tray 1. A magnetic induction float ball 2 is located inside the sleeve 3 and rises or falls with the condensate level. A magnetic induction device 4 is located at the top of the sleeve and is used to monitor the magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball 2. The drain pump is connected to the magnetic induction device, so that if the magnetic induction device detects that the magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball is too high, the drain pump can be controlled in time to perform auxiliary drainage, thereby preventing condensate overflow.

[0043] The air conditioner controls the condensate drainage device to discharge condensate based on the strength of a first magnetic field. This includes: when the first magnetic field strength is greater than or equal to a first preset threshold, the air conditioner controls the outlet of the drip tray to open for condensate drainage and controls a drain pump for auxiliary drainage. Thus, when the first magnetic field strength is greater than or equal to the first preset threshold, it is considered that the condensate level in the drip tray is above the warning level. By controlling the opening of the drip tray outlet and the auxiliary drainage pump, the pressure of condensate drainage can be effectively relieved, thereby preventing condensate overflow.

[0044] In some embodiments, when the first magnetic field strength is greater than or equal to a first preset threshold, the outlet of the water receiving tray is controlled to open, and the drain pump is controlled to perform auxiliary drainage at the lowest drainage level. When the drain pump performs auxiliary drainage, the drain pump discharges the condensate in the water receiving tray through the suction pipe.

[0045] Furthermore, after the air conditioner controls the drain pump for auxiliary drainage, it also includes: the air conditioner obtaining the second magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball inside the sleeve through a magnetic induction device, and controlling the condensate drainage device to drain condensate based on the second magnetic field strength. The second magnetic field strength is the magnetic field strength monitored by the air conditioner after condensate drainage.

[0046] Furthermore, the air conditioner controls the condensate drainage device to discharge condensate based on the strength of the second magnetic field. This includes: when the second magnetic field strength is greater than the first magnetic field strength, the air conditioner controls the drain pump to increase its drainage level to increase the drainage volume until the second magnetic field strength is less than or equal to a first preset threshold. The drain pump has three levels: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Level 1 is the lowest, and Level 3 is the highest. The higher the drainage level, the greater the drainage volume. Thus, when the second magnetic field strength is greater than the first magnetic field strength, the condensate level in the drip tray is considered high. By increasing the drain pump's drainage level, the drainage volume can be increased, allowing the condensate in the drip tray to be discharged promptly.

[0047] Furthermore, the air conditioner controls the condensate drainage device to drain condensate based on the strength of the second magnetic field. This includes: when the second magnetic field strength is greater than or equal to a second preset threshold, the air conditioner stops operating and issues a drainage fault warning. The second preset threshold is greater than the first preset threshold. Thus, when the second magnetic field strength is greater than or equal to the second preset threshold, it is assumed that even though the drain pump is operating at its highest drainage setting, a large amount of condensate in the drip tray cannot be drained in time. By stopping the air conditioner, further accumulation of condensate is prevented, and the drainage fault warning allows the user to be promptly informed of the air conditioner's malfunction, facilitating the user to notify maintenance personnel for timely repair of the drain pipe and other faults.

[0048] Furthermore, the air conditioner can provide drainage fault alerts, including: the air conditioner sending a drainage fault alert message to a preset user terminal; or, the air conditioner emitting a buzzer as an alarm.

[0049] Furthermore, the air conditioner controls the condensate drainage device to drain condensate based on the strength of the second magnetic field, including: when the strength of the second magnetic field is less than or equal to a first preset threshold, the air conditioner controls the drain pump to shut off. Thus, when the strength of the second magnetic field is less than or equal to the first preset threshold, it is assumed that after condensate drainage control, the condensate level in the drip tray has dropped below the warning level, and there is no need to activate the drain pump for auxiliary drainage, thereby reducing energy consumption.

[0050] In some embodiments, the warning water level in the receiving tray is the condensate water level corresponding to a first preset threshold, the highest water level in the receiving tray is the condensate water level corresponding to a second preset threshold, and the normal water level in the receiving tray is the condensate water level corresponding to a third preset threshold. When the condensate water level in the receiving tray is below the warning water level, the first magnetic induction intensity of the float ball detected by the magnetic induction device is less than the first preset threshold. Condensate discharge can be achieved by controlling the opening of the receiving tray outlet. When the condensate water level in the receiving tray is above the warning water level, the first magnetic induction intensity of the float ball detected by the magnetic induction device is greater than the first preset threshold. At this time, the condensate water level in the receiving tray is high, and while controlling the opening of the receiving tray outlet, it is also necessary to control the start of the drain pump for auxiliary drainage. After condensate discharge control, by acquiring the second magnetic induction intensity, if the second magnetic induction intensity is less than the first preset threshold, it is considered that the condensate water level in the receiving tray is below the warning water level, and the drain pump is then turned off. If the second magnetic induction intensity exceeds the second preset threshold, it is assumed that a large amount of condensate in the drip tray cannot be drained in time. The air conditioner will then stop operating and a drainage fault warning will be issued. This prevents further accumulation of condensate and allows users to be aware of the air conditioner's malfunction, facilitating timely notification to maintenance personnel to repair the drain pipes and other faults.

[0051] Combination Figure 4 As shown in the figure, this disclosure provides a method for controlling an air conditioner. The indoor unit of the air conditioner is equipped with a condensate drain device, which stores the condensate generated during the cooling process of the indoor unit and discharges the condensate in a controlled manner. The condensate drain device is equipped with a magnetic induction device, a magnetic induction float ball, and a sleeve. The magnetic induction float ball is disposed inside the sleeve, and the sleeve has multiple through holes. The magnetic induction device is used to monitor the magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball. The condensate drain device is also equipped with a water level sensor, which is used to detect the condensate water level.

[0052] The method includes:

[0053] In step S401, the air conditioner obtains the first magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball inside the sleeve through the magnetic induction device.

[0054] Step S402: The air conditioner acquires the detected water level from the water level sensor.

[0055] In step S403, the air conditioner determines the actual water level based on the detected water level and the strength of the first magnetic field.

[0056] In step S404, the air conditioner controls the condensate discharge device to discharge condensate according to the actual water level.

[0057] The method for controlling an air conditioner provided in this disclosure suffers from limitations. Voltage fluctuations can affect the accuracy of the magnetic field strength detected by the magnetic induction device, making condensate drainage control based solely on the first magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float insufficiently accurate. Determining the actual water level by using a water level sensor to detect the water level and the first magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float allows for a more accurate assessment of the actual condensate level in the drainage device. Controlling condensate drainage based on the actual water level further improves the accuracy of condensate drainage control.

[0058] Optionally, the condensate drain device also includes a water level sensor to detect the condensate level in the device. The air conditioner controls condensate drainage based on the strength of the first magnetic field, including: acquiring the detected water level from the water level sensor; determining the actual water level based on the detected water level and the first magnetic field strength; and controlling condensate drainage based on the actual water level. This allows for a more accurate determination of the actual water level using the water level sensor and the first magnetic field strength, resulting in more precise condensate drainage control and preventing indoor unit overflow caused by drainage malfunctions.

[0059] Optionally, the air conditioner determines the actual water level based on the detected water level and the first magnetic field strength, including: the air conditioner acquiring a candidate water level corresponding to the first magnetic field strength; if the detected water level and the candidate water level are different, acquiring the difference between the detected water level and the candidate water level; if the difference is within a preset range, determining the detected water level as the actual water level. Thus, if the difference between the detected water level and the candidate water level is within the preset range, it is considered that the deviation is small, and accurate condensate drainage control can be achieved by using the water level detected by the water level sensor as the standard.

[0060] Optionally, the air conditioner determines the actual water level based on the detected water level and the first magnetic field strength, including: the air conditioner acquiring a candidate water level corresponding to the first magnetic field strength; if the detected water level and the candidate water level are different, acquiring the difference between the detected water level and the candidate water level; if the difference is outside a preset range, determining the larger value between the detected water level and the candidate water level as the actual water level. Thus, if the difference between the detected water level and the candidate water level is outside the preset range, it is considered that the deviation is large, and the larger value between the detected water level and the candidate water level is determined as the actual water level for condensate drainage control. This can minimize the possibility of condensate overflow due to misjudgment, thereby achieving accurate condensate drainage control and improving the user experience.

[0061] Optionally, the condensate drain device is equipped with a water tray outlet, and the air conditioner controls the condensate drain device to drain condensate according to the actual water level, including: when the actual water level is lower than the first preset water level, the air conditioner controls the water tray outlet to open to drain condensate.

[0062] Optionally, the condensate drain device is also equipped with a drain pump and a suction pipe. One end of the suction pipe is connected to the drain pump, and the other end of the suction pipe is immersed in the condensate stored in the condensate drain device. The drain pump is used for controlled auxiliary drainage. The air conditioner controls the condensate drain device to drain condensate according to the actual water level, including: when the actual water level is greater than or equal to the first preset water level, the air conditioner controls the outlet of the water tray to open and controls the drain pump to perform auxiliary drainage.

[0063] Optionally, the air conditioner controls the condensate drainage device to drain condensate according to the actual water level, including: when the actual water level is greater than or equal to a second preset water level, the air conditioner controls the air conditioner to stop operating and issues a drainage fault warning.

[0064] In some embodiments, an isolation cover is provided outside the sleeve to reduce or isolate magnetic field interference. This improves the accuracy of the magnetic induction device in monitoring the magnetic field strength of the float ball.

[0065] Combination Figure 5 As shown, this disclosure provides an apparatus 500 for controlling an air conditioner, including a processor 504 and a memory 501. Optionally, the apparatus may further include a communication interface 502 and a bus 503. The processor 504, communication interface 502, and memory 501 can communicate with each other via the bus 503. The communication interface 502 can be used for information transmission. The processor 504 can call logical instructions in the memory 501 to execute the method for controlling the air conditioner described in the above embodiment.

[0066] The device for controlling an air conditioner provided in this embodiment acquires the first magnetic field strength of a magnetically inductive float ball inside the sleeve via a magnetic induction device, and controls the condensate drain device to discharge condensate based on the first magnetic field strength. This is advantageous because the magnetic field strength monitored by the magnetic induction device changes with the height of the magnetically inductive float ball inside the sleeve. Furthermore, the magnetically inductive float ball is less prone to tilting or getting stuck, which could lead to inaccurate condensate level detection. The magnetic field strength of the magnetically inductive float ball provides a more accurate representation of the actual condensate level. Controlling the condensate drain device based on the first magnetic field strength achieves more accurate condensate discharge control.

[0067] Furthermore, the logic instructions in the aforementioned memory 501 can be implemented as software functional units and, when sold or used as independent products, can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium.

[0068] The memory 501, 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 504 executes functional applications and data processing by running the program instructions / modules stored in the memory 501, that is, it implements the method for controlling the air conditioner in the above embodiments.

[0069] The memory 501 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 501 may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-volatile memory.

[0070] Combination Figure 6 As shown, this disclosure provides an air conditioner, including an air conditioner body 600 and the aforementioned device 500 for controlling the air conditioner. The device 500 for controlling the air conditioner is installed in the air conditioner body 600. The installation relationship described herein is not limited to placement inside the air conditioner body 600, but also includes installation connections with other components of the air conditioner body 600, including but not limited to physical connections, electrical connections, or signal transmission connections. Those skilled in the art will understand that the device 500 for controlling the air conditioner can be adapted to any feasible air conditioner body 600, thereby realizing other feasible embodiments.

[0071] The air conditioner provided in this embodiment uses a magnetic induction device to obtain the first magnetic field strength of a magnetic induction float ball inside the sleeve, and controls the condensate drainage device to discharge condensate based on the first magnetic field strength. This is because the magnetic field strength monitored by the magnetic induction device changes with the height of the magnetic induction float ball inside the sleeve. Furthermore, the magnetic induction float ball is less prone to tilting or getting stuck, which could lead to inaccurate condensate level detection. The magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball can more accurately represent the actual condensate level. Controlling the condensate drainage device based on the first magnetic field strength achieves more accurate condensate drainage control.

[0072] This disclosure provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program stored on a computer-readable storage medium. The computer program includes program instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the above-described method for controlling an air conditioner.

[0073] The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium may be a transient computer-readable storage medium or a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

[0074] 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.

[0075] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings fully illustrate embodiments of this disclosure to enable those skilled in the art to practice them. Other embodiments may include structural, logical, electrical, procedural, and other changes. The embodiments represent only possible variations. Individual components and functions are optional unless explicitly required, and the order of operation may vary. Parts and features of some embodiments may be included in or replace parts and features of other embodiments. Moreover, the terminology used in this application is for describing embodiments only and is not intended to limit the claims. As used in the description of embodiments and claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to equally include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Similarly, the term “and / or” as used in this application means including one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations thereof. Additionally, when used in this application, the term "comprise" and its variations "comprises" and / or "comprising" refer to the presence of stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprises a..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, or apparatus that includes said element. In this document, each embodiment may focus on the differences from other embodiments, and similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to mutually. For methods, products, etc., disclosed in the embodiments, if they correspond to the method section disclosed in the embodiments, the relevant parts can be referred to the description of the method section.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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 an air conditioner, characterized by, The inner unit of an air conditioner is provided with a condensed water discharge device for storing condensed water generated during refrigeration of the inner unit and controlled condensed water discharge; the condensed water discharge device is provided with a magnetic induction device, a magnetic induction float ball and a sleeve, the magnetic induction float ball is arranged in the sleeve, a plurality of through holes are arranged on the sleeve barrel, and the magnetic induction device is used for monitoring the magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball; the method comprises: obtaining the first magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball in the sleeve through the magnetic induction device; controlling the condensed water discharge device to discharge condensed water according to the first magnetic field strength; controlling the condensed water discharge device to discharge condensed water according to the first magnetic field strength, comprising: obtaining the detected water level of the water level sensor; obtaining the alternative water level corresponding to the first magnetic field strength; in the case that the detected water level and the alternative water level are not the same, obtaining the difference between the detected water level and the alternative water level; in the case that the difference is within the preset range, determining the detected water level as the actual water level; in the case that the difference is outside the preset range, determining the maximum value between the detected water level and the alternative water level as the actual water level; and controlling the condensed water discharge according to the actual water level.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The condensed water discharge device is provided with a water pan outlet, and controlling the condensed water discharge device to discharge condensed water according to the first magnetic field strength comprises: in the case that the first magnetic field strength is less than a first preset threshold, controlling the water pan outlet to open to discharge condensed water.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, The condensed water discharge device is further provided with a drainage pump and a water suction pipe, one end of the water suction pipe is connected with the drainage pump, the other end of the water suction pipe is immersed in the condensed water stored in the condensed water discharge device, and the drainage pump is used for controlled auxiliary drainage; controlling the condensed water discharge device to discharge condensed water according to the first magnetic field strength comprises: in the case that the first magnetic field strength is greater than or equal to the first preset threshold, controlling the water pan outlet to open to discharge condensed water and controlling the drainage pump to perform auxiliary drainage.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, After controlling the drainage pump to perform auxiliary drainage, the method further comprises: obtaining the second magnetic field strength of the magnetic induction float ball in the sleeve through the magnetic induction device; controlling the condensed water discharge device to discharge condensed water according to the second magnetic field strength.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein, controlling the condensed water discharge device to discharge condensed water according to the second magnetic field strength comprises: in the case that the second magnetic field strength is greater than the first magnetic field strength, controlling the drainage level of the drainage pump to be raised to increase the drainage amount of the drainage pump until the second magnetic field strength is less than or equal to the first preset threshold.

6. The method of claim 4, wherein, controlling the condensed water discharge device to discharge condensed water according to the second magnetic field strength comprises: in the case that the second magnetic field strength is greater than or equal to a second preset threshold, controlling the air conditioner to stop running and performing a drainage fault prompt.

7. The method of claim 4, wherein, controlling the condensed water discharge device to discharge condensed water according to the second magnetic field strength comprises: in the case that the second magnetic field strength is less than or equal to the first preset threshold, controlling the drainage pump to be closed.

8. An apparatus for controlling an air conditioner, comprising a processor and a memory having stored program instructions, characterized in that, The processor is configured to execute the method for controlling an air conditioner as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7 when running the program instructions.

9. An air conditioner characterized by comprising: Comprise: An air conditioner body; The indoor unit of the air conditioner is provided with a condensate water discharge device for storing condensate water generated during cooling of the indoor unit and controlled condensate water discharge; the condensate water discharge device is provided with a magnetic induction device, a magnetic induction float ball and a sleeve, the magnetic induction float ball is arranged in the sleeve, a plurality of through holes are arranged on the barrel of the sleeve, and the magnetic induction device is used for monitoring the magnetic field intensity of the magnetic induction float ball; The device for controlling an air conditioner as claimed in claim 8 is installed on the air conditioner body.

10. A condensate drain apparatus characterized by, The method for controlling an air conditioner as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7 is executed, the condensate water discharge device is used for storing condensate water generated during cooling of the indoor unit of the air conditioner and controlled condensate water discharge; the condensate water discharge device is provided with a magnetic induction device, a magnetic induction float ball and a sleeve, the magnetic induction float ball is arranged in the sleeve, a plurality of through holes are arranged on the barrel of the sleeve, and the magnetic induction device is used for monitoring the magnetic field intensity of the magnetic induction float ball.

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