Air conditioner and fine-tuning variable volume liquid storage device

Abstract

This invention provides an air conditioner and a fine-tuning variable-volume refrigerant storage device, comprising: a heat pump circulation system including a compressor, a four-way valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, an indoor heat exchanger, and a throttling valve connected via refrigerant pipes; the four-way valve being used for switching between cooling and heating modes; and the fine-tuning variable-volume refrigerant storage device including a storage tank, a bellows, and a temperature-sensing bulb. The storage tank is connected to the refrigerant pipes, the bellows is located inside the storage tank and connected to the temperature-sensing bulb via a temperature-sensing pipe, the temperature-sensing bulb being in close contact with the heat exchange section of the outdoor heat exchanger, and both the storage tank and the refrigerant pipes are filled with a refrigerant, while the bellows and the temperature-sensing pipes are filled with a second refrigerant. The air conditioner of this invention achieves automated thermodynamic adaptive regulation through the fine-tuning variable-volume refrigerant storage device, enabling real-time adjustment of the refrigerant charge in the system according to changes in outdoor temperature, significantly improving the performance and efficiency of the air conditioner under various operating conditions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electrical technology, and more particularly to an air conditioner and a fine-tuning variable-volume liquid storage device. Background Technology

[0002] The refrigerant charge significantly impacts air conditioner system performance; both undercharging and overcharging negatively affect performance. Under specific operating conditions, there exists an optimal refrigerant charge range that maximizes the air conditioner's cooling capacity or COP. As outdoor conditions change, the optimal refrigerant charge range for optimal air conditioner performance also varies. However, the refrigerant charge at the factory is fixed, charged according to the optimal charge for rated cooling conditions. Therefore, achieving adaptive adjustment of the refrigerant charge under varying operating conditions is a crucial way to improve the overall performance of air conditioners and reduce emissions.

[0003] Existing technologies for refrigerant charge regulation are limited. Some methods use a receiver tank to regulate the charge during cooling / heating switching, but the regulation is crude and cannot adaptively adjust to changes in outdoor temperature during cooling or heating. High-pressure receivers in large refrigeration systems can effectively regulate refrigerant charge, but these are not suitable for room air conditioners. Other methods utilize machine learning to intelligently control the charge based on refrigerant charge, operating efficiency, and related parameters; however, electronic control requires solenoid valves and motors, resulting in high costs that are not economical for air conditioners. Therefore, a self-regulating, low-cost, compact, easy-to-assemble, and highly accurate device suitable for air conditioners is needed to achieve adaptive refrigerant charge regulation during cooling / heating switching and in response to changes in outdoor temperature during cooling or heating operation. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides an air conditioner and a fine-tuning variable-volume refrigerant storage device to overcome the deficiencies in the prior art and achieve the following technical effects: the fine-tuning variable-volume refrigerant storage device realizes automated thermo-adaptive regulation, which can adjust the refrigerant charge in the system in real time according to changes in outdoor temperature, significantly improving the performance and efficiency of the air conditioner under various operating conditions.

[0005] An air conditioner according to a first aspect of the present invention includes:

[0006] The heat pump cycle system includes a compressor, a four-way valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, an indoor heat exchanger, and a throttling valve connected by refrigerant pipes. The four-way valve is used for switching between cooling mode and heating mode.

[0007] A fine-tuning variable-volume liquid storage device includes a liquid storage tank, a corrugated pipe, and a temperature sensing bulb. The liquid storage tank is connected to the refrigerant pipeline. The corrugated pipe is located inside the liquid storage tank and is connected to the temperature sensing bulb through the temperature sensing pipeline. The temperature sensing bulb is in close contact with the heat exchange section of the outdoor heat exchanger. The liquid storage tank and the refrigerant pipeline are both filled with a first refrigerant, and the corrugated pipe and the temperature sensing pipeline are both filled with a second refrigerant.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fine-tuning variable volume liquid storage device further includes an elastic element, wherein one end of the bellows is fixed to the inner wall of one side of the liquid storage tank and is open, the other end of the bellows is connected to one end of the elastic element and is closed, and the other end of the elastic element is fixed to the inner wall of the other side of the liquid storage tank.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the elastic element is a constant pressure spring.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the upper end of the constant pressure spring is fixed to the top wall of the liquid storage tank, the lower end of the elastic element is fixed to the upper end of the bellows, and the lower end of the bellows is fixed to the bottom wall of the liquid storage tank.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first refrigerant is R410A and the second refrigerant is R32.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the corrugated pipe is a polytetrafluoroethylene corrugated pipe.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the air conditioner further includes:

[0014] A coarse adjustment blind tube device includes a tank shell and an intermediate heat exchanger. The intermediate heat exchanger is installed inside the tank shell and is used to exchange heat with the tank shell. The two ends of the intermediate heat exchanger are respectively connected to the four-way valve and the indoor heat exchanger. The tank shell is connected to the first point of the refrigerant pipeline through the blind tube pipe. The first point is located between the outdoor heat exchanger and the four-way valve.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the intermediate heat exchanger is a coil heat exchanger.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the top of the can shell is provided with a communication port, and the cecal tube is connected to the communication port.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the top of the can shell is provided with a sealing cover, the sealing cover is adapted to seal the communication port, and an adjustable valve assembly is provided on the sealing cover, the valve assembly being used to control the flow state between the cecal tube and the inside of the can shell.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a first control valve is provided on the temperature sensing pipe, and a second control valve is provided at the outlet of the liquid storage tank.

[0019] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a fine-tuning variable-volume liquid storage device is applied to an air conditioner, comprising a liquid storage tank, a corrugated pipe, and a temperature sensing bulb. The liquid storage tank is used to communicate with the refrigerant pipeline of the air conditioner. The corrugated pipe is disposed inside the liquid storage tank and is connected to the temperature sensing bulb through a temperature sensing pipeline. The temperature sensing bulb is used to be in close contact with the outdoor heat exchanger of the air conditioner. The liquid storage tank is filled with a first refrigerant identical to that of the air conditioner, and the corrugated pipe and the temperature sensing pipeline are filled with a second refrigerant.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fine-tuning variable volume liquid storage device further includes an elastic element, wherein one end of the bellows is fixed to one side inner wall of the liquid storage tank and the other end is connected to one end of the elastic element, and the other end of the elastic element is fixed to the other side inner wall of the liquid storage tank.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the elastic element is a constant pressure spring, the upper end of the constant pressure spring is fixed to the top wall of the liquid storage tank, the lower end of the elastic element is fixed to the upper end of the bellows, and the lower end of the bellows is fixed to the bottom wall of the liquid storage tank.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first refrigerant is R410A and the second refrigerant is R32; and the corrugated pipe is a polytetrafluoroethylene corrugated pipe.

[0023] This invention provides an air conditioner that utilizes a fine-tuning variable-volume liquid storage device to automatically adjust the refrigerant charge in the system according to changes in outdoor temperature, which has at least the following advantages compared to related technologies.

[0024] (1) Enhanced adaptive adjustment capability: Traditional refrigerant charge adjustment technology often relies on manual intervention or simple mechanical structures, with limited adjustment accuracy and response speed. This invention achieves automated thermodynamic adaptive adjustment through fine-tuning of the variable volume liquid storage device, which can adjust the refrigerant charge in the system in real time according to changes in outdoor temperature, significantly improving the performance and efficiency of the air conditioner under various operating conditions.

[0025] (2) Cost-effectiveness: Although previous electronic control schemes can achieve intelligent regulation, they usually require electrical components such as solenoid valves and motors, which not only increases equipment costs but may also affect the economic efficiency of air conditioners. In contrast, the present invention adopts a thermodynamic self-regulating method, which uses a simple combination of bellows, constant pressure spring and temperature sensing bulb, without the need for additional electric drive, thus reducing manufacturing and maintenance costs.

[0026] (3) Small size and easy assembly: The fine-adjustment variable volume liquid storage device has a compact design, occupies little space, and is easy to assemble into existing air conditioning systems. It will not significantly affect the overall size of the air conditioner, which is conducive to the lightweight and miniaturization design of the product.

[0027] (4) High adjustment precision: By utilizing the different working characteristics of the second refrigerant (R32) and the first refrigerant (such as R410A), especially the temperature sensitivity of R32, the outdoor temperature change can be accurately sensed, and the refrigerant charge can be precisely controlled by fine-tuning the bellows volume. This mechanism is more refined than the traditional coarse adjustment method and helps the system maintain operation within the optimal performance range.

[0028] (5) Improved environmental friendliness: The design of this system does not increase additional energy consumption, and the selection of refrigerant takes into account environmental factors, meets the current requirements for the environmental friendliness of refrigerants, and reduces the potential impact on the environment.

[0029] (6) Optimized performance under all operating conditions: Whether in cooling or heating mode, the regulating device can work effectively. Especially in environments with large outdoor temperature fluctuations, it can automatically adapt, reduce energy waste, improve user comfort, extend the service life of the air conditioner, and reduce maintenance costs. Attached Figure Description

[0030] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in this invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the air conditioner provided by the present invention in cooling mode.

[0032] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the air conditioner provided by the present invention in heating mode.

[0033] Figure label:

[0034] 1. Compressor; 2. Four-way valve; 3. Outdoor heat exchanger; 4. Indoor heat exchanger; 5. Throttling valve; 6. Tank shell; 7. Intermediate heat exchanger; 8. Liquid storage tank; 9. Bellows; 10. Constant pressure spring; 11. Temperature sensing bulb. Detailed Implementation

[0035] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the technical solutions of this invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0036] An air conditioner according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a heat pump circulation system and a fine-tuning variable volume liquid storage device.

[0037] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the heat pump cycle system includes a compressor 1, a four-way valve 2, an outdoor heat exchanger 3, an indoor heat exchanger 4, and a throttling valve 5 connected by refrigerant pipes. The four-way valve 2 is used to switch between cooling mode and heating mode.

[0038] The fine-tuning variable volume liquid storage device includes a liquid storage tank 8, a bellows pipe 9, and a temperature sensing bulb 11. The liquid storage tank 8 is connected to a refrigerant pipeline. The bellows pipe 9 is located inside the liquid storage tank 8 and is connected to the temperature sensing bulb 11 through a temperature sensing pipeline. The temperature sensing bulb 11 is in close contact with the heat exchange section of the outdoor heat exchanger 3. The liquid storage tank 8 and the refrigerant pipeline are both filled with a first refrigerant, and the bellows pipe 9 and the temperature sensing pipeline are both filled with a second refrigerant.

[0039] According to the air conditioner design of the embodiment of the invention, the system integrates a heat pump cycle system and a fine-tuning variable volume liquid storage device to achieve adaptive adjustment of the refrigerant charge, thereby automatically optimizing the performance of the air conditioner under different operating conditions.

[0040] Specifically, the heat pump cycle system is the core circulation part of the air conditioner, which includes compressor 1, four-way valve 2, outdoor heat exchanger 3 (also known as condenser), indoor heat exchanger 4 (evaporator), and expansion valve 5. They are connected by refrigerant pipes to form a closed loop. As a control element, four-way valve 2 can switch the direction of refrigerant flow as needed to realize the conversion from cooling mode to heating mode.

[0041] The fine-tuning variable-volume refrigerant storage device is one of the key innovations of this invention, used to achieve fine-tuning of the refrigerant charge. It consists of a storage tank 8, a bellows 9, and a temperature sensing bulb 11. The storage tank 8 is connected to the refrigerant pipeline, and the bellows 9 is placed inside the storage tank 8 and connected to the temperature sensing bulb 11 through a temperature sensing pipeline. The temperature sensing bulb 11 is tightly fitted to the heat exchange section of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 to directly sense changes in outdoor temperature. It is worth noting that the first refrigerant (such as R410A) filled in the storage tank 8 and the refrigerant pipeline, and the second refrigerant (such as R32) in the bellows 9 and the temperature sensing pipeline are two different substances with different saturation pressure characteristics.

[0042] Furthermore, the specific working principle and process of the air conditioner according to embodiments of the present invention are as follows.

[0043] In cooling mode: When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the four-way valve 2 sets the refrigerant flow so that the low-temperature, low-pressure two-phase refrigerant flows through the indoor heat exchanger 4 (evaporator), absorbs heat, and becomes gaseous. Then it enters the compressor 1 and is compressed into a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous state. Finally, it releases heat in the outdoor heat exchanger 3 (condenser) and becomes liquid. At this time, the temperature sensor 11 is in close contact with the heat exchange section of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 to sense the condensation temperature.

[0044] If the outdoor temperature rises, the condensing temperature also rises. The saturated vapor pressure of the second refrigerant (e.g., R32) inside the temperature-sensing bulb 11 increases due to the increased temperature, and the saturated vapor pressure of the first refrigerant (e.g., R410A) in the liquid receiver 8 also increases due to the increased temperature. Furthermore, the increase in the saturated vapor pressure of the second refrigerant is greater than that of the first refrigerant. This results in a pressure difference between the inside and outside of the bellows 9, increasing the volume of the bellows 9 under pressure, shortening the length of the constant pressure spring 10, and reducing the volume of the liquid receiver 8. This, in turn, pushes the liquid first refrigerant (e.g., R410A) in the liquid receiver 8 into the refrigerant pipeline to participate in the circulation, thereby increasing the refrigerant charge in the system and optimizing the cooling effect.

[0045] Conversely, if the outdoor temperature drops, the condensing temperature decreases, and the saturated vapor pressure of the second refrigerant (such as R32) in the bellows 9 and the first refrigerant (such as R410A) in the liquid receiver 8 decreases, with the decrease in the saturated vapor pressure of the second refrigerant being greater than that of the first refrigerant. This pressure difference causes the volume of the bellows 9 to decrease, the length of the constant pressure spring 10 to extend, and the volume of the liquid receiver 8 to increase. Some of the liquid first refrigerant (R410A) flows into the liquid receiver 8, reducing the refrigerant charge in the system and maintaining efficient cooling.

[0046] In heating mode, although the liquid storage tank 8 does not play a significant role, it maintains its maximum volume to ensure that the system can operate stably in the heating cycle. The main adjustment mechanism lies in the switching of the four-way valve 2 and the change of the refrigerant flow direction.

[0047] Therefore, through the above mechanism, the fine-tuning variable-volume liquid receiver can automatically adjust the refrigerant charge in the system according to changes in outdoor temperature, enabling the air conditioner to maintain high efficiency and performance under different operating conditions. This design requires no additional electronic control devices, relying on thermodynamic principles for adaptive adjustment, making it both economical and efficient.

[0048] In related technologies, the refrigerant charge significantly affects the system performance of an air conditioner; both insufficient and excessive charge can adversely impact performance. Under specific operating conditions, there exists an optimal charge range that maximizes the air conditioner's cooling capacity or COP. As outdoor conditions change, the optimal refrigerant charge range for optimal air conditioner performance also varies. However, the refrigerant charge at the time of manufacture is fixed, charged according to the optimal charge for rated cooling conditions. Therefore, achieving adaptive adjustment of the refrigerant charge under varying operating conditions is a crucial way to improve the overall performance of air conditioners and reduce emissions.

[0049] Existing technologies for refrigerant charge regulation are limited. Some methods use a receiver tank (8) to regulate the charge during cooling / heating switching, but the regulation is crude and cannot adaptively adjust to changes in outdoor temperature during cooling or heating. High-pressure receivers in large refrigeration systems can effectively regulate refrigerant charge, but these are not suitable for room air conditioners. Other methods utilize machine learning to intelligently control the charge based on refrigerant charge, operating efficiency, and related parameters; however, electronic control requires solenoid valves and motors, resulting in high costs that are not economical for air conditioners. Therefore, a self-regulating, low-cost, compact, easy-to-assemble, and highly accurate device suitable for air conditioners is needed to achieve adaptive refrigerant charge regulation during cooling / heating switching and in response to changes in outdoor temperature during cooling or heating operation.

[0050] Therefore, in order to overcome the technical defects existing in the above-mentioned related technologies, the present invention provides an air conditioner that uses a fine-tuning variable volume liquid storage device to automatically adjust the refrigerant charge in the system according to the changes in outdoor temperature, which has at least the following advantages compared with the related technologies.

[0051] (1) Enhanced adaptive adjustment capability: Traditional refrigerant charge adjustment technology often relies on manual intervention or simple mechanical structures, with limited adjustment accuracy and response speed. This invention achieves automated thermodynamic adaptive adjustment through fine-tuning of the variable volume liquid storage device, which can adjust the refrigerant charge in the system in real time according to changes in outdoor temperature, significantly improving the performance and efficiency of the air conditioner under various operating conditions.

[0052] (2) Cost-effectiveness: Although previous electronic control schemes can achieve intelligent regulation, they usually require electrical components such as solenoid valves and motors, which not only increases equipment costs but may also affect the economic efficiency of air conditioners. In contrast, the present invention adopts a thermodynamic self-regulation method, which uses a simple combination of bellows 9, constant pressure spring 10 and temperature sensing bulb 11 to reduce manufacturing and maintenance costs without the need for additional electric drive.

[0053] (3) Small size and easy assembly: The fine-adjustment variable volume liquid storage device has a compact design, occupies little space, and is easy to assemble into existing air conditioning systems. It will not significantly affect the overall size of the air conditioner, which is conducive to the lightweight and miniaturization design of the product.

[0054] (4) High adjustment precision: By utilizing the different working characteristics of the second refrigerant (R32) and the first refrigerant (such as R410A), especially the temperature sensitivity of R32, the outdoor temperature change can be accurately sensed, and the refrigerant charge can be precisely controlled by fine-tuning the volume of the bellows 9. This mechanism is more refined than the traditional coarse adjustment method and helps the system maintain operation within the optimal performance range.

[0055] (5) Improved environmental friendliness: The design of this system does not increase additional energy consumption, and the selection of refrigerant takes into account environmental factors, meets the current requirements for the environmental friendliness of refrigerants, and reduces the potential impact on the environment.

[0056] (6) Optimized performance under all operating conditions: Whether in cooling or heating mode, the regulating device can work effectively. Especially in environments with large outdoor temperature fluctuations, it can automatically adapt, reduce energy waste, improve user comfort, extend the service life of the air conditioner, and reduce maintenance costs.

[0057] In summary, the air conditioner of this invention demonstrates significant advantages in adaptive adjustment of refrigerant charge, not only improving the system's flexibility and efficiency but also combining economy, environmental friendliness, and reliability.

[0058] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the fine-tuning variable volume liquid storage device further includes an elastic element, wherein one end of the bellows 9 is fixed to one side of the inner wall of the liquid storage tank 8 and the other end is connected to one end of the elastic element, and the other end of the elastic element is fixed to the other side of the inner wall of the liquid storage tank 8.

[0059] Understandably, the addition of the elastic element supports and guides the movement of the bellows 9. One end of the bellows 9 is fixed to the inner wall of one side of the liquid storage tank 8, while the other end is connected to the inner wall of the other side of the liquid storage tank 8 via the elastic element. This arrangement makes the expansion and contraction of the bellows 9 more orderly, enhancing the stability of the entire system.

[0060] Simultaneously, the bellows 9 is affected by temperature changes (sensed by the temperature sensor 11), causing a change in the saturated vapor pressure of the second refrigerant (such as R32) inside, resulting in a volume change in the bellows 9. The elastic element plays a crucial role in this process, buffering the movement of the bellows 9 and converting its pressure changes into effective displacement. This volume change in the bellows 9 then affects the volume of the liquid receiver 8, enabling fine-tuning of the refrigerant charge. The presence of the elastic element makes this adjustment smoother and more precise.

[0061] Because the elastic element can provide stable restoring force, even under small temperature fluctuations, the movement of the bellows 9 can be effectively converted into the adjustment of the refrigerant charge, improving the system's response accuracy and speed to changes in ambient temperature.

[0062] In addition, the use of elastic elements can absorb some of the impact force caused by pressure changes, protecting the bellows 9 and the liquid storage tank 8 from excessive stress damage, thereby extending the service life of the device.

[0063] In this way, by introducing a fine-tuning variable-volume liquid storage device with elastic elements, not only is the sensitivity and accuracy of refrigerant charge adjustment improved, but the physical structure of the system is also strengthened, making it more adaptable to long-term stable operation and facing complex and ever-changing external environmental conditions. As a result, in practical applications, the performance of the air conditioner can be adjusted more efficiently, achieving the goals of energy saving, emission reduction, and improved user comfort.

[0064] For example Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the elastic element is a constant pressure spring 10. Further, the upper end of the constant pressure spring 10 is fixed to the top wall of the liquid storage tank 8, the lower end of the elastic element is fixed to the upper end of the bellows 9, and the lower end of the bellows 9 is fixed to the bottom wall of the liquid storage tank 8.

[0065] It is understood that the constant pressure spring 10 is installed as an elastic element inside the liquid receiver 8, with one end connected to the bellows 9 and the other end fixed to the inner wall of the liquid receiver 8. In cooling mode, when the outdoor temperature changes, the saturated vapor pressure of the second refrigerant (e.g., R32) in the temperature sensing bulb 11 changes due to the temperature rise or fall. This pressure change is transmitted to the bellows 9 through the temperature sensing pipe, and the pressure inside the bellows 9 changes accordingly, thereby compressing or stretching the constant pressure spring 10. The deformation of the constant pressure spring 10 generates a counterforce, pushing the bellows 9 to change volume, which leads to a corresponding adjustment of the internal volume of the liquid receiver 8. In this way, the amount of refrigerant circulating in the system (i.e., the first refrigerant, such as R410A) is automatically adjusted to adapt to the outside temperature, ensuring that the air conditioner operates at the optimal refrigerant charge.

[0066] In this way, the stability and reset capability of the constant pressure spring 10 ensure the continuity and smoothness of the adjustment process, reduce internal shocks and wear, and extend the service life of the equipment. Furthermore, compared to electronic control adjustment, the purely mechanical adjustment method using the constant pressure spring 10 has a simpler structure, reduces potential failure points, lowers maintenance costs, and is not limited by power supply, making it suitable for more scenarios.

[0067] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first refrigerant is R410A and the second refrigerant is R32.

[0068] The chemical composition of the first refrigerant (R410A) is as follows: R410A is a mixed refrigerant, mainly composed of R32 (difluoromethane) and R125 (pentafluoroethane) mixed in a certain proportion. It is a chlorine-free, environmentally friendly refrigerant, often used in modern air conditioning systems to replace R22, which is harmful to the ozone layer.

[0069] The physical properties of R410A are as follows: R410A is a colorless and odorless gas at room temperature. It has high refrigeration efficiency and pressure, and requires a specially designed high-pressure resistant system to adapt to its high-pressure characteristics.

[0070] Therefore, the role of the first refrigerant R410A in the system is as follows: In the air conditioner system of the present invention, R410A, as the main refrigerant, participates in the entire heat pump cycle's cooling and heating process, and completes the heat transfer through stages such as compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation.

[0071] The chemical composition of the second refrigerant (R32) is as follows: R32, or difluoromethane, is a single-component refrigerant and is a purer compound than R410A.

[0072] The physical properties of R32 are as follows: the saturated vapor pressure of R32 is more sensitive to temperature changes, which means that even with small temperature changes, it can produce large pressure changes. This characteristic makes it very suitable for use as a temperature-sensing medium.

[0073] Therefore, the role of the second refrigerant R32 in the system is as follows: In the fine-tuning variable-volume liquid storage device, R32, as the second refrigerant, is encapsulated in the bellows 9 and the temperature sensing bulb 11. It does not directly participate in the refrigeration cycle but serves as a medium for pressure regulation. By having the temperature sensing bulb 11 closely attached to the heat exchange section of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, R32 can directly sense changes in the outdoor temperature and affect the volume of the bellows 9 through changes in saturated vapor pressure. In turn, through the constant pressure spring 10 and the volume change of the bellows 9, the volume of the liquid storage tank 8 is adjusted, indirectly controlling the charge amount of refrigerant (R410A).

[0074] In summary, the combined use of the first refrigerant (R410A) and the second refrigerant (R32) achieves thermodynamic adaptive regulation of the refrigerant charge. The ingenuity of this design lies in utilizing the different saturated vapor pressure characteristics of R32 and R410A to convert temperature signals into pressure changes, which are then mechanically adjusted (through the interaction between the bellows 9 and the spring) to regulate the refrigerant circulation. This allows the air conditioning system to automatically adjust the refrigerant charge to the optimal level under different operating conditions, especially when outdoor temperatures fluctuate, ensuring efficient and stable system operation while reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. This mechanism requires no complex electronic controls, has low cost, and the adaptive adjustment process improves the air conditioner's adaptability and energy efficiency under varying operating conditions.

[0075] In addition, R410A, as an environmentally friendly refrigerant, meets the current requirements for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the ozone layer, while the use of R32 alone is also a future trend in refrigerant development because it has a lower global warming potential (GWP).

[0076] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the corrugated pipe 9 is a polytetrafluoroethylene corrugated pipe 9.

[0077] It should be noted that polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a high-performance fluoroplastic material with extremely strong chemical inertness and corrosion resistance. It is virtually unaffected by any known solvents, including strong acids, strong alkalis, and organic solvents. This allows PTFE corrugated pipes to maintain long-term stability and prevent corrosion when exposed to refrigerants (such as R410A and R32) and their potential mixtures of lubricating oil and moisture, thus extending their service life.

[0078] In this way, the PTFE bellows 9 can withstand a wide temperature range, exhibiting excellent stability from low to high temperatures. This is crucial for the alternating cooling and heating conditions that air conditioning systems may experience. Whether it's the low temperature during cooling or the high temperature during heating, PTFE maintains its physical properties, ensuring the reliable operation of the regulation mechanism.

[0079] Furthermore, PTFE has a very low coefficient of friction, which means that when the refrigerant flows through the bellows 9, the resistance is small and there will be no additional energy loss due to friction, which is beneficial to improving the energy efficiency of the system.

[0080] Furthermore, the bellows 9 is designed to adapt to changes in volume and pressure, and the flexibility and elasticity of PTFE material perfectly meet this requirement. Under the action of the constant pressure spring 10, it can freely expand and contract according to pressure changes, precisely adjusting the refrigerant charge. At the same time, the surface properties of PTFE make it difficult for other substances to adhere, which helps reduce the deposition of impurities in the refrigerant, keeps the pipes clean, and ensures smooth refrigerant flow.

[0081] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the air conditioner also includes a coarse adjustment appendix device.

[0082] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the coarse adjustment blind tube device includes a tank shell 6 and an intermediate heat exchanger 7. The intermediate heat exchanger 7 is installed inside the tank shell 6 and is used to exchange heat with the tank shell 6. The two ends of the intermediate heat exchanger 7 are respectively connected to the four-way valve 2 and the indoor heat exchanger 4. The tank shell 6 is connected to the first point of the refrigerant pipeline through the blind tube pipe. The first point is located between the outdoor heat exchanger 3 and the four-way valve 2.

[0083] It is understandable that the coarse adjustment blind tube device is used for a one-time large-scale adjustment of the charge amount when switching between cooling and heating modes. The temperature change difference caused by the reversal of the four-way valve 2 causes the refrigerant to undergo a phase change in a bypass blind tube, thereby realizing the storage of liquid refrigerant or the discharge of gaseous refrigerant, which causes the total refrigerant charge in the system to change.

[0084] The specific working process of the coarse adjustment blind tube device is described as follows: When the air conditioner starts in cooling mode, the compressor 1 operates, and the refrigerant is compressed into a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous state, which then enters the outdoor heat exchanger 3 (condenser). Here, the refrigerant releases heat to the external environment and transforms into a high-pressure liquid state. A portion of the high-pressure liquid refrigerant is introduced into the blind tube through the guide of the four-way valve 2. The blind tube is essentially a bypass pipe, with one end connected to the refrigerant pipe (located after the outdoor heat exchanger 3 and before the four-way valve 2), and the other end leading to the intermediate heat exchanger 7 inside the tank shell 6.

[0085] The liquid refrigerant entering the tank shell 6 exchanges heat with the environment of the tank shell 6 within the intermediate heat exchanger 7. Since the temperature inside the tank shell 6 is lower than the refrigerant's saturation temperature, the refrigerant condenses. The unevaporated liquid refrigerant is stored inside the tank shell 6, thereby reducing the amount of refrigerant flowing in the main cycle. This achieves a coarse adjustment and reduction of the refrigerant charge in cooling mode, optimizing the efficiency of the refrigeration cycle.

[0086] During the switching from cooling to heating mode, the state of four-way valve 2 changes from having terminals C and D connected in cooling mode to having terminals C and S connected, while terminals D and E are simultaneously connected. This change alters the flow of refrigerant in the system, preparing for heating mode.

[0087] With the switching of the four-way valve 2, the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant no longer flows through the outdoor heat exchanger 3 (condenser), but instead enters the coil heat exchanger. At this time, the liquid refrigerant originally stored in the blind tube evaporates into a gaseous state due to the temperature rise, and is then drawn into the system circulation from the inlet at point a to participate in the heating cycle. This process increases the amount of refrigerant in the system circulation, providing the necessary refrigerant charge for the heating mode.

[0088] The R32 temperature sensor 11 is attached to the evaporator section of the outdoor heat exchanger 3 to sense changes in ambient temperature. Since this is the initial stage of mode switching, the PTFE bellows 9 is less affected by temperature and remains largely under compression without significant adjustments. Simultaneously with the change in refrigerant flow, the receiver 8 maintains its maximum volume, ready to receive the low-temperature, low-pressure two-phase refrigerant returning from the system, ensuring a smooth transition in the system cycle and preventing refrigerant over- or under-absence.

[0089] In summary, the coarse adjustment cecum device, through its special structural design, utilizes the refrigerant phase change and the heat exchange effect of the intermediate heat exchanger 7 to rapidly and extensively adjust the refrigerant charge in the system between cooling and heating modes, so as to adapt to the optimal charge requirements of different modes, thereby optimizing the performance and efficiency of the air conditioner.

[0090] In some specific embodiments of the present invention, the intermediate heat exchanger 7 is a coil heat exchanger.

[0091] In this way, the coil-type heat exchanger, through its unique coiled structure, increases the heat exchange area, allowing the refrigerant flowing inside to exchange heat more fully with the environment (or specific fluid) inside the tank 6. This design improves heat exchange efficiency, ensuring that the refrigerant state can be changed quickly, making it suitable for systems requiring rapid response, such as refrigerant charge adjustment when switching between cooling and heating modes. Furthermore, the coil-type structure is compact, occupies little space, and is easy to install inside the tank 6 without affecting the overall layout and appearance design of the air conditioner.

[0092] In some specific embodiments of the present invention, the top of the can shell 6 is provided with a communication port, and the cecal tube is connected to the communication port.

[0093] This connection allows the blind pipe to directly connect to the interior of the tank shell 6, facilitating the flow of refrigerant between the inside and outside of the tank shell 6 and providing a direct channel for rapid refrigerant charging or discharging. When the system requires rapid adjustment of the refrigerant charge (such as switching between cooling and heating modes), this structure can respond quickly, improving adjustment speed and efficiency.

[0094] Furthermore, the top of the can shell 6 is provided with a sealing cover, which is adapted to seal the connecting port, and an adjustable valve assembly is provided on the sealing cover, which is used to control the flow state between the cecal tube and the inside of the can shell 6.

[0095] Understandably, the introduction of the valve assembly allows for more precise and flexible control over the flow state within the blind pipe and tank shell 6. Operators can finely adjust the valve opening based on the system's current operating status, external environmental conditions, or maintenance needs, effectively controlling the refrigerant's inflow and outflow, and further optimizing the refrigerant charge adjustment process.

[0096] Furthermore, the valve assembly, as a control element, can close in case of system malfunction or maintenance, preventing accidental refrigerant leakage and protecting the environment and operator safety. Simultaneously, it can quickly release internal system pressure when necessary, avoiding potential risks caused by excessive pressure.

[0097] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a first control valve (not shown in the figure) is provided on the temperature sensing pipe, and a second control valve (not shown in the figure) is provided at the outlet of the liquid storage tank 8.

[0098] In this way, the first and second control valves not only allow for automatic adjustment of the refrigerant charge, but also provide a manual adjustment option, giving the air conditioner of this invention greater flexibility in adjustment.

[0099] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the fine-tuning variable-volume liquid storage device according to the second aspect of the present invention is applied to an air conditioner, including a liquid storage tank 8, a corrugated pipe 9, and a temperature sensing bulb 11. The liquid storage tank 8 is used to communicate with the refrigerant pipeline of the air conditioner. The corrugated pipe 9 is disposed inside the liquid storage tank 8 and is connected to the temperature sensing bulb 11 through a temperature sensing pipeline. The temperature sensing bulb 11 is used to be in close contact with the outdoor heat exchanger 3 of the air conditioner. The liquid storage tank 8 is filled with the same first refrigerant as the air conditioner, and the corrugated pipe 9 and the temperature sensing pipeline are filled with a second refrigerant.

[0100] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the fine-tuning variable volume liquid storage device further includes an elastic element, wherein one end of the bellows 9 is fixed to one side of the inner wall of the liquid storage tank 8 and the other end is connected to one end of the elastic element, and the other end of the elastic element is fixed to the other side of the inner wall of the liquid storage tank 8.

[0101] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the elastic element is a constant pressure spring 10. The upper end of the constant pressure spring 10 is fixed to the top wall of the liquid storage tank 8, the lower end of the elastic element is fixed to the upper end of the bellows 9, and the lower end of the bellows 9 is fixed to the bottom wall of the liquid storage tank 8.

[0102] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the first refrigerant is R410A, and the second refrigerant is R32; and the corrugated pipe 9 is a polytetrafluoroethylene corrugated pipe 9. A specific embodiment of the air conditioner of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0103] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 The aforementioned air conditioner, namely an air conditioner refrigerant charge thermodynamic adaptive adjustment device and system, includes a coarse adjustment cecum device, a fine adjustment variable volume liquid storage device, and a heat pump circulation system.

[0104] The heat pump cycle system also includes a compressor 1, a four-way reversing valve, an outdoor heat exchanger 3, an indoor heat exchanger 4, and a throttling valve 5 connected by pipes; the four-way reversing valve is used to switch between cooling mode and heating mode.

[0105] The coarse adjustment cecum device also includes a tank shell 6 and an intermediate heat exchanger 7; the tank shell 6 is connected to point a of the heat pump circulation system through the cecum pipe.

[0106] The fine-tuning variable volume liquid storage device also includes a liquid storage tank 8, a polytetrafluoroethylene corrugated pipe 9, a constant pressure spring 10, and an R32 temperature sensing bulb 11; the R32 temperature sensing bulb 11 is closely attached to the heat exchange section of the outdoor heat exchanger 3, and the liquid storage tank 8 is connected to the heat pump circulation system.

[0107] Cooling mode: In this mode, terminals C and D of the four-way valve 2 are connected, and terminals S and E are connected. Low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows through the intermediate heat exchanger 7, and liquid refrigerant fills the tank shell 6. High-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant fills the liquid receiver 8. The R32 temperature sensor 11 senses the condensation temperature at the outdoor heat exchanger 3. The R32 saturated vapor in the PTFE bellows 9 is balanced with the liquid refrigerant in the liquid receiver 8 and the constant pressure spring 10. If the outdoor temperature rises, the condensation temperature rises accordingly, the R32 saturated vapor pressure in the PTFE bellows 9 increases, the R410A liquid pressure in the liquid receiver 8 increases, the pressure increase of the R32 saturated vapor is greater, the compression of the constant pressure spring 10 increases, the volume of the PTFE bellows 9 increases, the volume of the liquid receiver 8 decreases, and the amount of refrigerant participating in the circulation in the system increases. If the outdoor temperature decreases, the condensing temperature will also decrease, the saturated vapor pressure of R32 in the PTFE bellows 9 will decrease, the liquid pressure of R410A in the liquid receiver 8 will decrease, the pressure reduction of the saturated vapor of R32 will be greater, the compression of the constant pressure spring 10 will decrease, the volume of the PTFE bellows 9 will decrease, the volume of the liquid receiver 8 will increase, and the amount of refrigerant charged into the system will decrease.

[0108] Cooling to heating mode switching: At this time, the four-way valve 2 is switched from being connected at terminals c and d, and terminals s and e, to being connected at terminals c and s, and terminals d and e. High-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows through the intermediate heat exchanger 7, and the liquid refrigerant in the tank shell 6 evaporates into gas and enters the system from point a. The R32 temperature sensing bulb 11 senses the evaporation temperature at the external heat exchanger 3, the PTFE corrugated pipe 9 is compressed to its shortest length, the liquid storage tank 8 maintains its maximum volume, and the low-temperature, low-pressure two-phase refrigerant flows into the liquid storage tank 8.

[0109] Heating mode: At this time, terminals C and S of the four-way valve 2 are connected, and terminals D and E are connected. High-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows through the intermediate heat exchanger 7, and the tank shell 6 is filled with gaseous refrigerant. The R32 temperature sensing bulb 11 senses the evaporation temperature at the external heat exchanger 3, the PTFE corrugated pipe 9 is compressed to its shortest length, the liquid storage tank 8 maintains its maximum volume, and the low-temperature and low-pressure liquid refrigerant fills the liquid storage tank 8.

[0110] Heating to cooling mode switching: At this time, the four-way valve 2 is switched from being connected at terminals C and S, and terminals D and E, to being connected at terminals C and D, and terminals S and E. Low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows through the intermediate heat exchanger 7, while high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows from point A into the tank shell 6 and condenses. The R32 temperature sensing bulb 11 senses the condensation temperature at the external heat exchanger 3.

[0111] It can be understood that the operating mode of the present invention is to use a coil heat exchange type blind device to significantly adjust the refrigerant charge when switching between cooling and heating modes, and to use a self-regulating refrigerant charge adjustment device with different working fluids to slightly adjust the refrigerant charge according to the outdoor temperature in cooling mode.

[0112] The technical principle of this invention is to utilize the different phase states of refrigerant at the same location in the air conditioning system under cooling and heating modes to achieve the condensation storage and evaporation release of refrigerant; by utilizing the difference in saturation properties between R32 and R410A, using a bellows 9 and a constant pressure spring 10, the temperature signal is converted into a pressure driving force, and then into a volume change, thereby realizing that the refrigerant charge changes with the outdoor temperature.

[0113] In summary, this invention addresses the problem of adaptive adjustment of refrigerant charge under varying operating conditions in air conditioners by designing a thermodynamic adaptive adjustment device for refrigerant charge, comprising a coarse adjustment blind pipe device and a fine adjustment variable volume liquid storage device. The coarse adjustment blind pipe device is used for a one-time large-scale adjustment of the charge amount when switching between cooling and heating modes. Through the temperature difference caused by the reversing of the four-way valve 2, the refrigerant undergoes a phase change within a bypass blind pipe, thereby storing liquid refrigerant or discharging gaseous refrigerant, resulting in a change in the total refrigerant charge circulating in the system. The fine adjustment variable volume liquid storage device utilizes the changes in condensing temperature under different operating conditions, transmitting a saturation pressure signal through temperature to generate a pressure difference that drives a change in the volume of the bellows 9, causing a portion of the refrigerant to migrate between the refrigerant pipe and the liquid storage tank 8, thus achieving overall refrigerant charge adjustment for the system circulation. By utilizing the state changes of each operating condition cycle, the device cleverly achieves automatic adjustment of the amount of refrigerant participating in the circulation within the air conditioner and calibrates its charge amount to near the optimal level.

[0114] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. An air conditioner, characterized in that, include: The heat pump cycle system includes a compressor, a four-way valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, an indoor heat exchanger, and a throttling valve connected by refrigerant pipes. The four-way valve is used for switching between cooling mode and heating mode. A fine-tuning variable-volume liquid storage device includes a liquid storage tank, a corrugated pipe, and a temperature sensing bulb. The liquid storage tank is connected to the refrigerant pipeline. The corrugated pipe is located inside the liquid storage tank and is connected to the temperature sensing bulb through the temperature sensing pipeline. The temperature sensing bulb is in close contact with the heat exchange section of the outdoor heat exchanger. The liquid storage tank and the refrigerant pipeline are both filled with a first refrigerant, and the corrugated pipe and the temperature sensing pipeline are both filled with a second refrigerant. The fine-tuning variable-volume liquid storage device also includes an elastic element, wherein one end of the bellows is fixed to the inner wall of one side of the liquid storage tank and is open, the other end of the bellows is connected to one end of the elastic element and is closed, and the other end of the elastic element is fixed to the inner wall of the other side of the liquid storage tank. The first refrigerant is R410A, and the second refrigerant is R32; The corrugated pipe is a polytetrafluoroethylene corrugated pipe.

2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic element is a constant pressure spring.

3. The air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that, The upper end of the constant pressure spring is fixed to the top wall of the liquid storage tank, the lower end of the elastic element is fixed to the upper end of the bellows, and the lower end of the bellows is fixed to the bottom wall of the liquid storage tank.

4. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, Also includes: A coarse adjustment blind tube device includes a tank shell and an intermediate heat exchanger. The intermediate heat exchanger is installed inside the tank shell and is used to exchange heat with the tank shell. The two ends of the intermediate heat exchanger are respectively connected to the four-way valve and the indoor heat exchanger. The tank shell is connected to the first point of the refrigerant pipeline through the blind tube pipe. The first point is located between the outdoor heat exchanger and the four-way valve.

5. The air conditioner according to claim 4, characterized in that, The intermediate heat exchanger is a coil heat exchanger.

6. The air conditioner according to claim 4, characterized in that, The top of the can shell is provided with a connecting port, and the cecal tube is connected to the connecting port.

7. The air conditioner according to claim 6, characterized in that, The top of the can shell is provided with a sealing cover, which is adapted to seal the communication port, and an adjustable valve assembly is provided on the sealing cover. The valve assembly is used to control the flow state between the cecal tube and the inside of the can shell.

8. The air conditioner according to claim 4, characterized in that, The temperature sensing pipe is equipped with a first control valve, and the outlet of the liquid storage tank is equipped with a second control valve.

9. A fine-tuning variable-volume liquid storage device, characterized in that, The device is used in air conditioners and includes a liquid storage tank, a corrugated pipe, and a temperature sensing bulb. The liquid storage tank is used to connect with the refrigerant pipe of the air conditioner. The corrugated pipe is located inside the liquid storage tank and is connected to the temperature sensing bulb through a temperature sensing pipe. The temperature sensing bulb is used to be in close contact with the outdoor heat exchanger of the air conditioner. The liquid storage tank is filled with the same first refrigerant as the air conditioner, and the corrugated pipe and the temperature sensing pipe are filled with a second refrigerant. The fine-tuning variable-volume liquid storage device also includes an elastic element, wherein one end of the bellows is fixed to the inner wall of one side of the liquid storage tank and the other end is connected to one end of the elastic element, and the other end of the elastic element is fixed to the inner wall of the other side of the liquid storage tank. The first refrigerant is R410A, and the second refrigerant is R32; and the corrugated pipe is a polytetrafluoroethylene corrugated pipe.

10. The fine-tuning variable-volume liquid storage device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The elastic element is a constant pressure spring. The upper end of the constant pressure spring is fixed to the top wall of the liquid storage tank, the lower end of the elastic element is fixed to the upper end of the bellows, and the lower end of the bellows is fixed to the bottom wall of the liquid storage tank.

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