air conditioner

Abstract

This invention discloses an air conditioner. The indoor heat exchanger includes a condensate heat exchanger and a refrigerant heat exchanger capable of exchanging heat with each other. The drain pump also has an inlet, a drain outlet, and a bypass outlet, with the bypass outlet introducing condensate into the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger. The air conditioner further includes a first valve, a second valve, and a main control unit. When the air conditioner is operating in cooling mode and the water level in the drip tray reaches the first level but not the second level, the system determines whether the inlet water temperature at the condensate heat exchanger inlet reaches a preset lower limit and whether the indoor return air temperature difference reaches a preset lower limit. If both are true, the outdoor unit is stopped, both the first and second valves are connected, and the drain pump operates. Otherwise, the outdoor unit remains operational, both the first and second valves are connected, and the drain pump operates. This invention, by dividing the indoor heat exchanger, rationally utilizes the cooling capacity of the condensate, reduces system energy consumption, and improves user comfort by allowing the condensate to participate in circulation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of household appliance technology, and more particularly to an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, air conditioners perform a refrigeration cycle by using a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator. The refrigeration cycle includes a series of processes involving compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation, and supplies refrigerant to the conditioned and heat-exchanged air.

[0003] When the air conditioner is in cooling mode, the indoor heat exchanger acts as an evaporator and the outdoor heat exchanger acts as a condenser. Water vapor in the air encounters the low-temperature evaporator and forms low-temperature condensate, which flows into the drip tray of the indoor unit. The low-temperature condensate is then drained from the drip tray to the outside through the drain pipe by a drain pump, resulting in a waste of cooling capacity in the low-temperature condensate.

[0004] The information disclosed in this background section is only intended to enhance the understanding of the background technology of this application, and therefore may include prior art that is not known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In response to the problems mentioned in the background art, this application provides an air conditioner that divides the indoor heat exchanger into a condensate heat exchanger and a refrigerant heat exchanger. When the indoor temperature reaches the set state, only the low-temperature condensate in the drip tray is introduced into the condensate heat exchanger to participate in heat exchange, thereby reducing cooling energy consumption. When the indoor temperature does not reach the set state, the refrigerant heat exchanger participates in the cooling cycle and the condensate heat exchanger circulates through the low-temperature condensate for heat exchange, thereby improving the utilization of condensate cooling capacity, reducing system cooling energy consumption, and enhancing user comfort experience by having condensate participate in the circulation.

[0006] To achieve the above-mentioned objectives, the present invention employs the following technical solution:

[0007] This application relates to an air conditioner, comprising:

[0008] Indoor unit, which includes an indoor heat exchanger;

[0009] The outdoor unit has an outdoor heat exchanger, the indoor heat exchanger is one of the evaporator and condenser, and the outdoor heat exchanger is the other.

[0010] A drip tray, placed inside the indoor unit, is used to collect the condensate produced when the air conditioner is in cooling operation and the airflow passes through the indoor heat exchanger.

[0011] A drain pump is installed inside the water receiving pan and has an inlet and a drain outlet. The inlet is connected to the water receiving pan, and the drain outlet is used to discharge the condensate in the water receiving pan to the outside.

[0012] The indoor heat exchanger includes a condensate heat exchanger and a refrigerant heat exchanger that can exchange heat with each other. The refrigerant undergoes a refrigeration cycle through the compressor, outdoor heat exchanger, throttling element and refrigerant heat exchanger in the outdoor unit.

[0013] The drain pump also has a bypass port connected to the inlet for introducing condensate into the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger, and the outlet of the condensate heat exchanger is connected to the water receiving pan.

[0014] The air conditioner also includes:

[0015] The first valve is installed on the drain pipe at the drain outlet;

[0016] The second valve is located on the pipeline between the bypass port and the outlet of the condensate heat exchanger;

[0017] The main control unit determines whether the inlet water temperature at the condensate heat exchanger inlet has reached a preset lower limit and whether the indoor return air temperature difference has reached a preset lower limit when the air conditioner is in cooling operation and the water level in the water tray has reached the first water level but not the second water level. If both are true, the unit controls the outdoor unit to stop, the first valve and the second valve to be connected, and the drain pump to run. Otherwise, the unit keeps the outdoor unit running, controls the first valve and the second valve to be connected, and the drain pump to run.

[0018] The second water level is higher than the first water level.

[0019] The air conditioner involved in this application is equipped with a drain pump with a drain outlet and a bypass outlet. The drain outlet is used to drain water to the outside, and the bypass outlet is used to introduce part of the condensate into the condensate heat exchanger to recover and utilize the cooling capacity of the condensate to participate in the heat exchange of indoor air.

[0020] When the inlet water temperature at the condensate heat exchanger reaches the preset lower limit and the indoor return air temperature difference reaches the preset lower limit, it indicates that the current indoor temperature has reached the set state. The outdoor unit stops and only uses the cooling capacity of the low-temperature condensate circulating in the condensate heat exchanger to maintain the indoor temperature, thereby saving energy.

[0021] When the temperature at the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger does not reach the preset lower limit or the indoor return air temperature difference does not reach the preset lower limit, it indicates that the indoor temperature is in the cooling stage. At this time, the outdoor unit is working, the refrigerant heat exchanger participates in heat exchange, and at the same time, low-temperature condensate is also introduced into the condensate heat exchanger, so that the condensate heat exchanger participates in heat exchange to replace part of the function of the traditional condenser. Compared with the traditional entire condenser, the refrigerant heat exchanger of this application is smaller in size and requires less refrigerant, corresponding to a smaller outdoor unit operating load power, higher resource utilization rate and obvious energy saving and emission reduction effect.

[0022] In some embodiments of this application, the air conditioner further includes:

[0023] The first float switch is used to output a first signal that the water level in the water receiving tray has reached the first water level;

[0024] The second float switch is used to output a second signal that the water level in the water receiving tray has reached the second water level;

[0025] The main control unit is used to control the operation of the drain pump, the operation of the first valve, and the operation of the second valve based on the signals output by the first float switch and the second float switch when the air conditioner is in cooling operation.

[0026] By setting a first float switch and a second float switch, the water level in the water receiving pan is ensured to be sufficient for heat exchange in the condensate condenser, thereby improving the reliability of heat exchange.

[0027] Furthermore, a second float switch is installed to detect the water level, ensuring that there is no risk of water overflow in the water receiving tray.

[0028] In some embodiments of this application, the main control unit is used to control the operation of the drain pump, the operation of the first valve, and the operation of the second valve based on the signals output by the first float switch and the second float switch when the air conditioner is in cooling operation. Specifically:

[0029] S1: The air conditioner has started cooling operation;

[0030] S2: Control both the first and second valves to be disconnected, water begins to accumulate in the water receiving tray, and at this time, the drain pump does not operate;

[0031] S3: Detect whether the first float switch outputs the first signal. If yes, proceed to S4; otherwise, return to S2.

[0032] S4: Control the operation of the drainage pump, and control both the first valve and the second valve to be connected;

[0033] S5: Real-time detection of whether the first float switch outputs the first signal. If not, proceed to S6; if yes, proceed to S7.

[0034] S6: Reduce the speed of the drain pump or control the disconnection of the first valve, and return to S5;

[0035] S7: Real-time detection of whether the second float switch outputs the second signal; if yes, proceed to S8; if no, proceed to S9.

[0036] S8: Control the indoor fan to stop running and the second valve to open. If the first valve is currently open, keep it open. If it is currently closed, control the first valve to open. The drain pump will run to drain water and return to S7.

[0037] S9: Keep the drain pump running and keep both the first and second valves connected, and return to S5.

[0038] The signals output by the first float switch and the second float switch control the opening and closing of the first and second valves and the operation of the drain pump, thereby ensuring that the water level in the water receiving pan is sufficient for the condensate heat exchanger to exchange heat.

[0039] In some embodiments of this application, the refrigerant heat exchanger is located below the condensate heat exchanger along the direction from the air inlet side to the air outlet side of the condenser.

[0040] With this setup, because the refrigerant heat exchanger is highly efficient and therefore has a lower temperature, the outlet air temperature is low and the humidity is low when the indoor air exchanges heat with the refrigerant heat exchanger. As a result, the airflow flows downward quickly. On the other hand, the condensate heat exchanger is inefficient and therefore has a higher temperature and higher humidity. As a result, the airflow flows downward slowly.

[0041] Therefore, the two airflows mix at the air outlet to form a mixed airflow with uniform temperature and humidity, achieving the effect of comfort control. This prevents the airflow from being too cold, as traditional air conditioners do not cool down too quickly and affect user comfort.

[0042] In some embodiments of this application, the air conditioner further includes:

[0043] A water pump drive unit, which is connected to the main control unit, is used to drive the drainage pump to operate.

[0044] In some embodiments of this application, the water pump drive unit includes:

[0045] The pump driver chip outputs a signal from its speed feedback pin to the main control unit for real-time detection of the pump speed. An overcurrent protection circuit is provided around the pump driver chip to protect the pump motor from overcurrent.

[0046] The water pump drive chip involved in this application has an overcurrent protection function, which can realize overcurrent protection for the drainage pump motor by setting an overcurrent protection circuit around the overcurrent protection pin.

[0047] This overcurrent protection circuit can include multiple current-limiting resistors. By setting different resistance values ​​of the current-limiting resistors, current protection limits can be set to achieve overcurrent protection for different motor currents.

[0048] In some embodiments of this application, the air conditioner further includes:

[0049] A valve drive unit is connected to the main control unit and is also electrically connected to the first valve and the second valve. When the main control unit outputs a first control signal, the valve drive unit drives the first valve to open or close. When the main control unit outputs a second control signal, the valve drive unit drives the second valve to open or close.

[0050] In some embodiments of this application, the valve actuation unit includes:

[0051] A valve drive chip has multiple input pins and multiple output pins corresponding to the multiple input pins. The multiple input pins are connected to multiple output terminals of the main control unit, and two input pins are used to receive the first control signal and the second control signal.

[0052] Multiple relays are provided, one of which controls the on / off state of a valve. One end of the relay coil is connected to a power source, and the other end is connected to the output pin corresponding to the input pin. The normally open switch of the relay is connected in series with the power supply line that provides power to the valve, so that the valve is connected when the normally open switch is closed and disconnected when the normally open switch is open.

[0053] By controlling the energization / de-energization of the relay coil, the power supply line to the valve is connected / disconnected, thereby enabling the valve to be connected / disconnected.

[0054] In some embodiments of this application, the indoor heat exchanger includes:

[0055] The fin assembly is inclined toward the air inlet side of the indoor heat exchanger;

[0056] A first heat exchange pipe runs through the fin assembly and has a first inlet and a first outlet. The first inlet receives refrigerant entering the indoor unit and flows back to the compressor from the first outlet.

[0057] The second heat exchange pipe passes through the fin assembly and is located below the first heat exchange pipe. The second heat exchange pipe has a second inlet and a second outlet. The second inlet is the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger, and the second outlet is the outlet of the condensate heat exchanger.

[0058] The fin assembly is tilted towards the air inlet side of the indoor heat exchanger. Refrigerant flows through the first heat exchange pipe, and low-temperature condensate flows through the second heat exchange pipe. The first heat exchange pipe is located above the second heat exchange pipe. This allows indoor air to be blown out after heat exchange in the refrigerant heat exchanger and then sink to mix with the airflow after heat exchange in the condensate heat exchanger, thus achieving a comfort control effect.

[0059] This application also relates to an air conditioner, comprising:

[0060] Indoor unit, which includes an indoor heat exchanger;

[0061] The outdoor unit has an outdoor heat exchanger, the indoor heat exchanger is one of the evaporator and condenser, and the outdoor heat exchanger is the other.

[0062] A drip tray, placed inside the indoor unit, is used to collect the condensate produced when the air conditioner is in cooling operation and the airflow passes through the indoor heat exchanger.

[0063] A drain pump is installed inside the water receiving pan and has an inlet and a drain outlet. The inlet is connected to the water receiving pan, and the drain outlet is used to discharge the condensate in the water receiving pan to the outside.

[0064] The indoor heat exchanger includes a condensate heat exchanger and a refrigerant heat exchanger that can exchange heat with each other. The refrigerant undergoes a refrigeration cycle through the compressor, outdoor heat exchanger, throttling element and refrigerant heat exchanger in the outdoor unit.

[0065] The drain pump also has a bypass port connected to the inlet for introducing condensate into the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger, and the outlet of the condensate heat exchanger is connected to the drip tray.

[0066] The air conditioner also includes:

[0067] Condensate pipe temperature sensor, which is used to detect the inlet water temperature at the condensate heat exchanger inlet;

[0068] Indoor return air temperature sensor, used to detect indoor return air temperature;

[0069] The main control unit determines whether the temperature at the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger has reached a preset lower limit and whether the indoor return air temperature difference has reached a preset lower limit when the air conditioner is in cooling operation and the water level in the water tray has reached the first water level but not the second water level. If both are true, the unit controls the outdoor unit to stop and the drain pump to run, so that some condensate is discharged and some condensate is introduced into the condensate heat exchanger for heat exchange. Otherwise, the unit keeps the outdoor unit running and the drain pump running, so that some condensate is discharged and some condensate is introduced into the condensate heat exchanger for heat exchange.

[0070] The second water level is higher than the first water level.

[0071] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become clearer after reading the detailed embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0072] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0073] Figure 1 This is a structural block diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the air conditioner proposed in this application;

[0074] Figure 2 This is a front view of the drain pump in an air conditioner embodiment according to this application;

[0075] Figure 3 This is a top view of the drain pump in an air conditioner embodiment according to this application;

[0076] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the drain pump draining water according to an embodiment of the air conditioner proposed in this application;

[0077] Figure 5 This is a system block diagram of an embodiment of an air conditioner according to this application;

[0078] Figure 6 This is a pin connection diagram of an air conditioner embodiment according to this application;

[0079] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating comfort control according to an embodiment of an air conditioner proposed in this application;

[0080] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the indoor heat exchanger and indoor fan in an air conditioner embodiment according to this application;

[0081] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating water level control according to an air conditioner embodiment proposed in this application;

[0082] Figure 10 This is a control principle diagram of the valve in an air conditioner embodiment according to this application.

[0083] Figure label:

[0084] 100. Water tray;

[0085] 200. Drain pump; 210. Inlet; 220. Outlet; 230. Bypass outlet;

[0086] 300, Indoor heat exchanger; 310, Refrigerant heat exchanger; 311, First inlet; 312, First outlet; 320, Condensate heat exchanger; 321, Second inlet; 322, Second outlet;

[0087] 400' - First float switch; 400' - Second float switch;

[0088] 500", Condensate pipe temperature sensor; 500'", Indoor return air temperature sensor; 500", Main control unit;

[0089] 600. Water pump drive unit;

[0090] 700, Valve drive unit; 700', First valve; 700'', Second valve; 710, Valve drive chip; 720, First relay; 730, Second relay;

[0091] 800, Indoor fan; 800', Fan drive unit; 800'', Communication unit;

[0092] 900. Air vent;

[0093] L1, drainage pipe; L2, bypass pipe; L3, discharge pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0094] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0095] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0096] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0097] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0098] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0099] The following disclosure provides many different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples; such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. In addition, examples of various specific processes and materials are provided in this invention, but those skilled in the art will recognize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0100] <Basic Working Principle of Air Conditioners>

[0101] Air conditioners execute a refrigeration cycle using a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator. The refrigeration cycle involves a series of processes, including compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation, to cool or heat an indoor space.

[0102] Low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant enters the compressor, which compresses it into a high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas and discharges the compressed refrigerant gas. The discharged refrigerant gas flows into the condenser. The condenser condenses the compressed refrigerant into a liquid phase, and the heat is released to the surrounding environment through the condensation process.

[0103] The expansion valve expands the high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant that condenses in the condenser into a low-pressure liquid refrigerant. The evaporator evaporates the expanded refrigerant in the expansion valve and returns the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant gas to the compressor. The evaporator achieves its cooling effect by utilizing the latent heat of refrigerant evaporation to exchange heat with the material being cooled. Throughout the cycle, the air conditioner regulates the temperature of the indoor space.

[0104] The outdoor unit of an air conditioner refers to the part of the refrigeration cycle that includes the compressor and the outdoor heat exchanger. The indoor unit of an air conditioner includes the indoor heat exchanger, and the expansion valve can be provided in either the indoor or outdoor unit.

[0105] The indoor and outdoor heat exchangers function as either condensers or evaporators. When the indoor heat exchanger functions as a condenser (and the outdoor heat exchanger functions as an evaporator), the air conditioner functions as a heater in heating mode. When the indoor heat exchanger functions as an evaporator (and the outdoor heat exchanger functions as a condenser), the air conditioner functions as a cooler in cooling mode.

[0106] The drain pump 200 is a component in the indoor unit of the air conditioner. In the cooling mode of the air conditioner, when the airflow flows over the surface of the indoor heat exchanger, which acts as an evaporator, condensate will be generated on its surface. Generally, a drip tray 100 is installed below the indoor heat exchanger to receive this condensate. The drain pump 200 is installed in the drip tray 100 and is used to draw the condensate in the drip tray 100 to the outside of the indoor unit of the air conditioner when the drain pump 200 is started.

[0107] Since the condensate in the drip tray 100 is generated when passing through the evaporator, its temperature is low. If it is directly discharged outside the indoor unit, it will result in a waste of cooling capacity in the low-temperature condensate.

[0108] Therefore, in order to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this application proposes an air conditioner that can divide the indoor heat exchanger 300 into two independent parts: a refrigerant heat exchanger 310 and a condensate heat exchanger 320. The condensate to be discharged participates in the heat exchange cycle in the condensate heat exchanger 320, effectively utilizing the cooling capacity of the condensate to be discharged, so as to achieve effective utilization of cooling capacity, thereby saving air conditioning energy consumption. Moreover, water circulation heat exchange helps to improve user comfort.

[0109] See Figure 1 The air conditioner includes an outdoor unit, an indoor unit, a water tray 100, a drain pump 200, a first valve 700', a second valve 700'', and a main control unit 500''. When the air conditioner is cooling, the indoor heat exchanger 300 is the evaporator, and the outdoor heat exchanger is the condenser.

[0110] The following only applies to the control of various components during the cooling operation of the air conditioner in cooling mode.

[0111] In some embodiments of this application, the indoor heat exchanger 300 includes a refrigerant heat exchanger 310 and a condensate heat exchanger 320, which are independent of each other and their flow paths are not connected, but they can exchange heat with each other because they are close to each other.

[0112] In the refrigerant heat exchanger 310, it is used to flow through the refrigerant, and in the condensate heat exchanger 320, it is used to flow through the condensate.

[0113] When the outdoor unit is running, the refrigerant undergoes a refrigeration cycle through the compressor, condenser, throttling element, and refrigerant heat exchanger 310 in the outdoor unit.

[0114] The drip tray 100 is located inside the indoor unit and is used to collect the condensate produced when the airflow passes over the low-temperature surface of the indoor heat exchanger during the cooling operation of the air conditioner.

[0115] See Figure 2 and Figure 3 The drainage pump 200 has an inlet 210, a drain 220 and a bypass 230. The drain 220 and the bypass 230 are both connected to the inlet 210 and are both used to drain water from the water receiving tray 100, but the drain directions are different.

[0116] The drain outlet 220 is used to discharge the condensate in the drip tray 100 to the outside of the indoor unit; the bypass outlet 230 is used to discharge the condensate in the drip tray 100 to the condensate heat exchanger 320.

[0117] See Figure 4 The inlet of the condensate heat exchanger 320 is connected to the bypass port 230 through the bypass pipe L2, and the outlet of the condensate heat exchanger 320 returns to the water receiving pan 100 through the discharge pipe L3, thereby realizing the heat exchange circulation of condensate.

[0118] The drain pump 200 is located inside the water receiving pan 100. The drain pump 200 is installed inside the water receiving pan 100, for example, upside down inside the water receiving pan 100, so that the inlet 210 of the drain pump 200 faces the water receiving pan 100, for example, in contact with the condensate in the water receiving pan 100.

[0119] When the drain pump 200 is running, the inlet 210 of the drain pump 200 can extract the condensate collected in the drain pan 100.

[0120] To achieve different drainage directions of condensate when the drain pump 200 is running, see [link / reference]. Figure 4 The first valve 700' is located at the drain pipe L1 of the drain outlet 220. When the main control unit 500'' controls the first valve 700' to open, it discharges the condensate in the water tray 100 to the outside of the indoor unit. When the first valve 700' is controlled to close, the water tray 100 stores water.

[0121] The second valve 700'' is installed on the bypass pipe L2 between the bypass port 230 and the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger 320. When the main control unit 500'' controls the second valve 700'' to open, it draws the condensate in the drip tray 100 to the condensate heat exchanger 320. At this time, the condensate heat exchanger 320 exchanges heat with the indoor air. When the second valve 700'' is closed, the condensate in the drip tray 100 is not drawn into the condensate heat exchanger 320. At this time, the condensate heat exchanger 320 does not participate in heat exchange.

[0122] By setting up drainage pipe L1, bypass pipe L2 and discharge pipe L3, the transmission distance of water flow is extended.

[0123] The installation of drainage pipe L1 makes the drainage path no longer fixed, and it no longer discharges directly from the drain outlet 220, but its length can be determined according to the distance between the appropriate drainage location and the air conditioner.

[0124] The extension of the water flow distance in the bypass pipe L2 and the discharge pipe L3 allows the indoor heat exchanger to reach any position in the water receiving tray 100.

[0125] See Figure 5 The air conditioner may also include a water pump drive unit 600, which is connected to the main control unit 500'' and is used to receive the PWM pulse drive signal sent by the main control unit 500'', and control the operation of the drain pump 200 based on the PWM pulse drive signal.

[0126] The larger the duty cycle of the PWM pulse drive signal, the faster the drainage pump 200 operates, and thus the faster the drainage speed; the smaller the duty cycle of the PWM pulse drive signal, the slower the drainage pump 200 operates, and thus the slower the drainage speed.

[0127] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 6 The main control unit 500'' uses an integrated MCU chip.

[0128] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 5 The main control unit 500'' communicates with the fan drive unit 800'' through the communication unit 800'', and the fan drive unit 800' outputs a drive signal to the indoor fan 800, causing the indoor fan 800 to run or stop.

[0129] The communication unit 800'' can use a UART communication loop.

[0130] When the indoor fan 800 is running, the main control unit 500'' can obtain the speed of the indoor fan 800 through the communication unit 800''.

[0131] See Figure 6The water pump drive unit 600 includes a water pump drive chip, which has a PWM pin for receiving PWM pulse signals output from the first output pin of the MCU chip.

[0132] The pump driver chip also has an overcurrent protection function, which achieves current limiting protection for the motor of the drainage pump 200 by setting an overcurrent protection circuit around it.

[0133] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 6 The water pump driver chip has a first pin, a second pin, and a third pin, and an overcurrent protection circuit is provided between the first pin, the second pin, and the third pin.

[0134] The overcurrent protection circuit includes a first resistor R1, a second resistor R2, and a third resistor R3.

[0135] The first pin is grounded through the first resistor R1, the second pin is grounded through the second resistor R2, and the third pin is connected to the junction of the second pin and the second resistor R2 through the third resistor R3.

[0136] The overcurrent protection limit of the drainage pump 200 motor can be set by setting the value of each resistor. Different overcurrent protection limits can be set by changing the value of each resistor.

[0137] See Figure 6 The pump driver chip also has a speed feedback pin, and the MCU chip has a third input pin.

[0138] The speed feedback pin is connected to the third input pin and is used by the main control unit 500'' to detect the speed of the drainage pump 200 in real time and perform closed-loop control of the speed to achieve stable and controllable speed.

[0139] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 5 and Figure 6 The air conditioner also includes a condensate pipe temperature sensor 500 and an indoor return air temperature sensor 500'. The condensate pipe temperature sensor 500 and the indoor return air temperature sensor 500' are respectively connected to the main control unit 500'', and are used to transmit the temperatures detected by the condensate pipe temperature sensor 500 and the indoor return air temperature sensor 500' to the main control unit 500''.

[0140] The condensate pipe temperature sensor 500 is installed at the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger 320 to monitor the condensate inlet temperature TL in real time. The indoor return air temperature sensor 500' is installed at the indoor return air outlet to detect the indoor return air temperature TR.

[0141] In some embodiments of this application, when the air conditioner is in cooling operation and the water level in the water tray 100 reaches the first water level but not the second water level, the main control unit 500'' controls the outdoor unit, the drain pump 200, and the first valve 700' and the second valve 700'' based on the inlet water temperature TL at the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger 320 and the indoor return air temperature difference.

[0142] The indoor return air temperature difference can be the absolute value of the difference between the indoor return air temperature TR and the preset indoor return air temperature.

[0143] As mentioned above, the second water level is higher than the first water level. Here, the second water level is understood as the overflow level. That is, when the water level reaches the second water level, there is a risk of overflow. At this time, it is necessary to drain the water from the drain pan 100 in time. For example, the second valve 700'' can be controlled to be disconnected and the first valve 700' can be connected. At the same time, the speed of the drain pump 200 can be increased to improve the drainage rate and avoid safety risks caused by overflow.

[0144] The above-mentioned setting of the first and second water levels is to ensure that the condensate has a sufficient amount of water for circulation without causing the risk of overflow.

[0145] Therefore, it is necessary to monitor the first and second water levels during the operation of the air conditioner.

[0146] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 5 and Figure 6 The air conditioner is equipped with a first float switch 400 and a second float switch 400', both of which are located in the water receiving tray 100.

[0147] The first float switch 400 is used to detect the first water level, and a first preset water level is preset inside the first float switch 400; the second float switch 400' is used to detect the second water level, and a second preset water level is preset inside the second float switch 400'.

[0148] When the water level in the water receiving pan 100 reaches the first preset water level, the first float switch 400 is activated and sends a first signal. The first signal is transmitted to the main control unit 500''. That is, when the first float switch 400 outputs the first signal, it indicates that the water level has reached the first water level.

[0149] When the water level in the water receiving pan 100 reaches the second preset water level, the second float switch 400' activates and sends a second signal. The second signal is transmitted to the main control unit 500''. That is, when the second float switch 400' outputs the second signal, it indicates that the water level has reached the second water level.

[0150] Normally, the float switch is in the normally closed state. However, once the water level in the water receiving pan 100 reaches the preset water level, the float switch opens, i.e., it is in the open state. Therefore, the open and closed state information of the float switch includes both the closed state and the open state.

[0151] For example, in some embodiments of this application, the +5V power supply is connected to the input terminal of a voltage divider circuit (not shown) via a float switch; that is, one end of the float switch is connected to +5V and the other end is connected to the input terminal of the voltage divider circuit.

[0152] When the float switch is closed because the water level has not reached the preset water level, the MCU chip receives a high-level detection signal. When the float switch is open because the water level has reached the preset water level, the MCU chip receives a low-level detection signal (that is, for the first float switch 400, the detection signal is the first signal, and for the second float switch 400', the detection signal is the second signal).

[0153] After receiving the detection signal, the MCU chip outputs a control signal to the fan drive unit 800' to make the indoor fan 800 run or stop running.

[0154] That is, when the MCU chip receives a high-level detection signal, it outputs a control signal to the fan drive unit 800' to make the indoor fan 800 run; when the MCU chip receives a low-level detection signal (i.e., the first signal), it outputs a control signal to the fan drive unit 800' to make the indoor fan 800 stop running, so as to prevent the indoor fan 800 from continuing to run and continue to generate condensate.

[0155] To remind users to drain the water in a timely manner, the air conditioner also includes an alarm unit (not shown), which is used to control the alarm unit to issue an alarm prompt when the main control unit 500'' receives a low-level detection signal (i.e., the second signal) output by the second float switch 400', so as to visually remind the user to drain the water in a timely manner.

[0156] As described above, in some embodiments of this application, when the air conditioner is in cooling operation and the water level in the water tray 100 reaches the first water level but not the second water level, the main control unit 500'' specifically determines whether the inlet water temperature TL at the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger 320 reaches the preset lower limit value and whether the indoor return air temperature difference reaches the preset lower limit value, in order to control the outdoor unit, the drain pump 200, and the first valve 700' and the second valve 700''.

[0157] The preset lower temperature limit is preset and can be either a temperature range or a single temperature value; similarly, the preset lower temperature difference limit is also preset and can be either a temperature difference range or a single temperature value.

[0158] For example, the preset lower temperature limit can be the lowest set temperature TSL at the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger 320, the preset lower temperature difference limit is the user-set temperature difference deviation threshold △T, and the preset indoor return air temperature is the user-set temperature TRS.

[0159] The indoor return air temperature difference and the inlet water temperature TL at the condensate heat exchanger 320 are used to determine whether the current indoor temperature meets the set state.

[0160] See Figure 7 It shows a flowchart of the comfort adjustment control of the air conditioner.

[0161] The prerequisite for implementing comfort adjustment control is to ensure that the water level in the water receiving pan 100 reaches the first water level but not the second water level.

[0162] The following is a combination of Figure 7 This describes the process of comfort adjustment and control.

[0163] During the cooling operation of the air conditioner, the inlet water temperature TL and return air temperature TR of the condensate heat exchanger 320 are continuously monitored. When the inlet water temperature TL of the condensate heat exchanger 320 reaches the preset lower limit and the indoor return air temperature difference reaches the preset lower limit (referred to as the first stage), for example, when TL≤TLS and |TRS-TR|≤△T, it proves that the room temperature has reached the set state. The room temperature can then be maintained. At this time, the outdoor unit is shut down, and only the condensate heat exchanger 320 is used for heat exchange to maintain the room temperature, thus achieving the effect of energy saving.

[0164] That is, when the outdoor unit stops, the drainage pump 200 starts, and the second valve 700'' controls the connection.

[0165] At this time, the first valve 700' is also connected, so that while the condensate participates in the circulation, it is also partially discharged to the outside.

[0166] When the inlet water temperature TL at the condensate heat exchanger 320 reaches the preset upper limit of temperature, or the indoor return air temperature difference reaches the preset upper limit of temperature difference (referred to as the second stage), for example, TL > TLS or |TRS-TR| > △T, it proves that the room temperature is still in the cooling stage.

[0167] At this time, the outdoor unit continues to operate normally to keep the refrigerant heat exchanger 310 participating in heat exchange. At the same time, the drain pump 200 is also controlled to operate, and the second valve 700'' is controlled to be connected so that condensate enters the condensate heat exchanger 320. At this time, the condensate heat exchanger 320 also continues to participate in heat exchange.

[0168] At this time, the first valve 700' is also connected, so that while the condensate participates in the circulation, it is also partially discharged to the outside.

[0169] In this second stage, compared to traditional evaporators where all heat exchange is done by refrigerant heat exchangers, which are large in size, require a large refrigerant flow rate, and have a high outdoor unit operating load power, this application utilizes a condensate heat exchanger 320 for circulating low-temperature condensate water to participate in heat exchange, replacing part of the function of traditional refrigerant heat exchangers. This results in a smaller refrigerant charge, higher resource utilization, and significant energy saving and emission reduction effects.

[0170] In the second stage described above, both the condensate heat exchanger 320 and the refrigerant heat exchanger 310 participate in heat exchange.

[0171] When indoor air passes through the refrigerant heat exchanger 310, due to the high efficiency of the refrigerant heat exchanger 310, the outlet air temperature is low and the humidity is low when the indoor air exchanges heat with it.

[0172] When indoor air passes through the condensate heat exchanger 320, due to the low efficiency of the condensate heat exchanger 320, the outlet air temperature is moderate and the humidity is high when exchanging heat with it.

[0173] Thus, when both the refrigerant heat exchanger 310 and the condensate heat exchanger 320 participate in heat exchange, the airflow after heat exchange forms a mixed airflow at the air outlet. This mixed airflow combines airflow with low temperature and low humidity with airflow with moderate temperature and high humidity, thereby forming an airflow with uniform temperature and humidity. This prevents the blown-out air from being too cold and affecting user comfort, thus providing a comfortable indoor environment.

[0174] In some embodiments of this application, in order to better achieve comfort control, the indoor heat exchanger 300 is tilted toward the air inlet side, and the upper part is a refrigerant heat exchanger 310 and the lower part is a condensate heat exchanger 320, which facilitates airflow mixing.

[0175] See Figure 8 It shows the location of the indoor heat exchanger 300 and its positional relationship with the indoor fan 800.

[0176] In the second stage as described above, both the condensate heat exchanger 320 and the refrigerant heat exchanger 310 participate in heat exchange.

[0177] When indoor air passes through the refrigerant heat exchanger 310, due to the high efficiency of the refrigerant heat exchanger 310, the outlet air temperature is low and the humidity is low when the indoor air exchanges heat with it. Therefore, the airflow flows downward at a fast speed.

[0178] When indoor air passes through the condensate heat exchanger 320, due to the low efficiency of the condensate heat exchanger 320, the outlet air temperature is moderate and the humidity is high when the indoor air exchanges heat with it. Therefore, the downward airflow speed is slow.

[0179] Thus, when both the refrigerant heat exchanger 310 and the condensate heat exchanger 320 participate in heat exchange, the airflow after heat exchange with the refrigerant heat exchanger 310 flows downward and mixes with the airflow after heat exchange with the condensate heat exchanger 320. Therefore, a mixed airflow with uniform temperature and humidity is formed at the air outlet 900, achieving the effect of comfort control.

[0180] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 4 The indoor heat exchanger 300 includes a finned assembly (not shown), a first heat exchange pipe and a second heat exchange pipe, both of which pass through the finned assembly and the second heat exchange pipe is located below the first heat exchange pipe.

[0181] The first heat exchange pipe has a first inlet 311 and a first outlet 312. The first inlet 311 receives refrigerant entering the indoor unit side and the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant heat exchanger 310 flows back to the compressor from the first outlet 312.

[0182] The second heat exchange pipe has a second inlet 321 and a second outlet 322. The second inlet 321 is the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger 320 as described above, and the second outlet 322 is the outlet of the condensate heat exchanger 320 as described above.

[0183] As described above, in order to achieve the water level requirement in the water receiving pan 100 (i.e., reaching the first water level but not reaching the second water level), it is necessary to control the operation of the drain pump 200 and control the opening and closing of the first valve 700' and the second valve 700'' during the cooling operation of the air conditioner, based on the signals output by the first float switch 400 and the second float switch 400''.

[0184] See Figure 9 It describes a flowchart for controlling the water level in the water receiving tray 100.

[0185] Combination Figure 9 The specific description is as follows.

[0186] S1: The air conditioner has started cooling operation.

[0187] In the initial stage of air conditioner cooling operation, the refrigerant undergoes a cooling cycle through the compressor, condenser, throttling element and refrigerant heat exchanger 310 in the outdoor unit.

[0188] S2: Control the first valve 700' and the second valve 700'' to be disconnected, and water will begin to accumulate in the water receiving pan 100. At this time, the drain pump 200 will not operate.

[0189] At the initial stage of the air conditioner's cooling operation, water needs to be stored in the drip tray 100 to ensure that the condensate in the drip tray 100 has an initial water volume when participating in the heat exchange cycle.

[0190] At this time, both the first valve 700' and the second valve 700'' are disconnected, the drain pump 200 does not operate, the condensate heat exchanger 320 does not participate in heat exchange (i.e., the condensate does not circulate) and the condensate is not discharged to the outside.

[0191] S3: Detect whether the first float switch 400 outputs the first signal. If yes, proceed to S4; otherwise, return to S2.

[0192] When the water level reaches the first level, the first float switch 400 is activated, outputting the first signal and feeding it back to the main control unit 500''.

[0193] When the first float switch 400 does not activate, it indicates that the water level has not yet reached the first water level, and water storage will continue.

[0194] S4: Control the operation of the drainage pump 200, and control both the first valve 700' and the second valve 700'' to be connected.

[0195] When the main control unit 500'' receives the first signal, it controls the drain pump 200 to operate, and at the same time controls the first valve 700' and the second valve 700'' to be connected, so that the condensate heat exchanger 320 participates in the circulation and the condensate is discharged to the outside at the same time. That is, part of the condensate is discharged to the outside through the first valve 700' and the other part is introduced into the condensate heat exchanger 320 through the second valve 700' and circulated before returning to the water receiving pan 100.

[0196] S5: Real-time detection of whether the first float switch 400 outputs the first signal. If not, proceed to S6; if yes, proceed to S7.

[0197] In order to ensure that the water level in the water receiving pan 100 reaches the first water level, it is necessary to continuously check whether the first float switch 400 outputs the first signal during the operation of the air conditioner.

[0198] S6: Reduce the speed of the drain pump by 200 or control the disconnection of the first valve 700', and return to S5.

[0199] If the first float switch 400 does not output the first signal, it means that the first water level has not been reached. At this time, since the drain pump 200 is running and the first valve 700' is open, considering the need to store water, the speed of the drain pump 200 can be reduced to reduce the drainage speed, or the first valve 700' can be disconnected to prevent condensate from being discharged, until the water level reaches the first water level.

[0200] S7: Real-time detection of whether the second float switch 400' outputs a second signal. If yes, proceed to S8; otherwise, proceed to S9.

[0201] In order to ensure that the water level in the water receiving pan 100 does not exceed the second water level and avoid the risk of overflow, it is necessary to detect whether the second float switch 400' outputs a second signal, in addition to the first float switch 400 outputting a first signal.

[0202] S8: Control the indoor fan 800 to stop running and the second valve 700'' to open, keep the first valve 700' open, the drain pump 200 to run and drain water, and return to S7.

[0203] If the second float switch 400' outputs a second signal, indicating that the water level has reached the second level, then due to the risk of overflow, the indoor fan 800 needs to be stopped to prevent the regeneration of condensate. The second valve 700'' is then opened to prevent condensate circulation. The first valve 700' remains open if it is currently open, and opens if it is currently closed. At this time, the drain pump 200 operates at, for example, its maximum speed. Therefore, the condensate is quickly discharged to the outside through the first valve 700' until the second float switch 400' releases its action and outputs a signal.

[0204] During the drainage process, water level changes are monitored in real time.

[0205] S9: Keep the drain pump 200 running and keep both the first valve 700' and the second valve 700'' connected, and return to S5.

[0206] If the second float switch 400' does not output the second signal, it means that the water level has not reached the second water level. At this time, the water level in the water receiving pan 100 meets the heat exchange requirements (i.e., the water level has reached the first water level but has not reached the second water level).

[0207] At this time, keep the drain pump 200 running, and simultaneously control the first valve 700' and the second valve 700'' to be connected, so that the condensate heat exchanger 310 participates in the circulation and the condensate is discharged to the outside at the same time. That is, part of the condensate is discharged to the outside through the first valve 700' and the other part is introduced into the condensate heat exchanger 320 through the second valve 700' and circulated before returning to the water receiving pan 100.

[0208] It should be noted in S9 that after keeping the drainage pump 200 running and keeping both the first valve 700' and the second valve 700'' connected, there are two possible water level changes.

[0209] (1) The water level continues to rise based on the first water level (i.e., the first float switch 400 has output the first signal), so we can return to S7 to determine the action of the second float switch 400'; (2) The water level continues to drop below the first water level, so we can return to S5 to determine the action of the first float switch 400.

[0210] The valves described above can be solenoid valves, piezoelectric valves, MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical System) valves, or angle seat valves, etc., which can be controlled to open or close.

[0211] In some embodiments of this application, both the first valve 700' and the second valve 700'' can be selected as solenoid valves.

[0212] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 10 The valve drive unit 700 drives the first valve 700' and the second valve 700'' to open and close.

[0213] The main control unit 500'' is connected to the valve drive unit 700.

[0214] In some embodiments of this application, the main control unit 500'' outputs a corresponding control signal based on the action output signal of the first float switch 400, the action output signal of the second float switch 40', whether the inlet water temperature TL at the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger 320 reaches the preset lower limit value, and whether the indoor return air temperature difference reaches the preset lower limit value. Based on the control signal, the valve drive unit 700 operates to drive the valve to open or close according to the control signal.

[0215] In some embodiments of this application, the valve drive unit 700 has multiple input terminals and multiple output terminals corresponding to the multiple input terminals.

[0216] In some embodiments of this application, the multiple input terminals are two input terminals, which are used to receive two control signals from the main control unit 500'', referred to as the first control signal and the second control signal.

[0217] When the main control unit 500'' uses an MCU chip, the MCU chip outputs a first control signal at the first control pin and a second control signal at the second control pin (see...). Figure 6 ).

[0218] When the valve drive unit 700 receives the first control signal, the corresponding output terminal controls the opening and closing of the first valve 700'; when the valve drive unit 700 receives the second control signal, the corresponding output terminal controls the opening and closing of the second valve 700''.

[0219] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 10 The valve drive unit 700 includes a valve drive chip 710 and multiple relays.

[0220] When the main control unit 500'' uses an MCU chip, the MCU chip outputs a first control signal at the first control pin and a second control signal at the second control pin.

[0221] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 10 Two input terminals (referred to as the first input terminal and the second input terminal) and two corresponding output terminals (referred to as the first output terminal and the second output terminal) of the valve driver chip 710 are used.

[0222] The number of relays is equal to the number of valves.

[0223] In some embodiments of this application, two relays are used, referred to as the first relay 720 and the second relay 730, which correspond to the first output terminal and the second output terminal of the valve drive chip 710, respectively.

[0224] The first and second input terminals of the valve driver chip 710 are connected to the first and second control pins of the MCU chip, respectively.

[0225] See Figure 6 and Figure 10 The first input terminal of the valve drive chip 710 is connected to the first control pin of the MCU chip, the first output terminal is connected to one end of the coil of the first relay 720, and the power supply V is connected to the other end of the coil of the first relay 720.

[0226] The normally open switch of the first relay 720 is connected in series in the power supply line of the first valve 700'.

[0227] When the first control signal drives the first output terminal to output a low level, the coil of the first relay 720 is energized, the normally open switch closes, thereby connecting the power supply line to supply power to the first valve 700' normally. At this time, the first valve 700' opens and connects.

[0228] When the first control signal drives the first output terminal to output a high level, the coil of the first relay 720 is de-energized, the normally open switch is opened, thereby disconnecting the power supply line and preventing power supply to the first valve 700'. At this time, the first valve 700' is closed and disconnected.

[0229] The second input terminal of the valve drive chip 710 is connected to the second control pin of the MCU chip, the second output terminal is connected to one end of the coil of the second relay 730, and the power supply V is connected to the other end of the coil of the second relay 730.

[0230] The normally open switch of the second relay 730 is connected in series in the power supply line of the second valve 700''.

[0231] When the second control signal drives the second output terminal to output a low level, the coil of the second relay 730 is energized, the normally open switch closes, thereby connecting the power supply line to supply power to the second valve 700'' normally. At this time, the second valve 700'' opens and connects.

[0232] When the second control signal drives the second output terminal to output a high level, the coil of the second relay 730 is de-energized, the normally open switch is opened, thereby disconnecting the power supply line and preventing power supply to the second valve 700''. At this time, the second valve 700'' closes and disconnects.

[0233] In the description of the above embodiments, specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0234] The above are merely specific embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An air conditioner, comprising: The indoor unit has an indoor heat exchanger; The outdoor unit has an outdoor heat exchanger, the indoor heat exchanger is one of the evaporator and condenser, and the outdoor heat exchanger is the other. A drip tray, placed inside the indoor unit, is used to collect the condensate produced when the air conditioner is in cooling operation and the airflow passes through the indoor heat exchanger. A drain pump is installed inside the water receiving pan and has an inlet and a drain outlet. The inlet is connected to the water receiving pan, and the drain outlet is used to discharge the condensate in the water receiving pan to the outside. Its features are, The indoor heat exchanger includes a condensate heat exchanger and a refrigerant heat exchanger that can exchange heat with each other. The refrigerant undergoes a refrigeration cycle through the compressor, outdoor heat exchanger, throttling element and refrigerant heat exchanger in the outdoor unit. The drain pump also has a bypass port connected to the inlet for introducing condensate into the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger, and the outlet of the condensate heat exchanger is connected to the drip tray. The air conditioner also includes: The first valve is installed on the drain pipe at the drain outlet; The second valve is located on the pipeline between the bypass port and the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger; Condensate pipe temperature sensor, which is used to detect the inlet water temperature at the condensate heat exchanger inlet; Indoor return air temperature sensor, used to detect indoor return air temperature; The main control unit determines whether the inlet water temperature has reached the preset lower limit and whether the indoor return air temperature difference has reached the preset lower limit when the air conditioner is in cooling operation and the water level in the water tray reaches the first water level but has not reached the second water level. If both are true, the unit controls the outdoor unit to stop, the first valve and the second valve to be connected, and the drain pump to run. Otherwise, the unit keeps the outdoor unit running, controls the first valve and the second valve to be connected, and the drain pump to run. The second water level is higher than the first water level.

2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air conditioner also includes: The first float switch is used to output a first signal that the water level in the water receiving tray has reached the first water level; The second float switch is used to output a second signal that the water level in the water receiving tray has reached the second water level; The main control unit is used to control the operation of the drain pump, the operation of the first valve, and the operation of the second valve based on the signals output by the first float switch and the second float switch when the air conditioner is in cooling operation.

3. The air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that, The main control unit is used to control the operation of the drain pump, the operation of the first valve, and the operation of the second valve based on the signals output by the first float switch and the second float switch when the air conditioner is in cooling operation. Specifically: S1: The air conditioner has started cooling operation; S2: Control both the first and second valves to be disconnected, water begins to accumulate in the water receiving tray, and at this time, the drain pump does not operate; S3: Detect whether the first float switch outputs the first signal. If yes, proceed to S4; otherwise, return to S2. S4: Control the operation of the drainage pump, and control both the first valve and the second valve to be connected; S5: Real-time detection of whether the first float switch outputs the first signal. If not, proceed to S6; if yes, proceed to S7. S6: Reduce the speed of the drain pump or control the disconnection of the first valve, and return to S5; S7: Real-time detection of whether the second float switch outputs the second signal; if yes, proceed to S8; if no, proceed to S9. S8: Control the indoor fan to stop running and the second valve to open. If the first valve is currently open, keep it open. If it is currently closed, control the first valve to open. The drain pump will run to drain water and return to S7. S9: Keep the drain pump running and keep both the first and second valves connected, and return to S5.

4. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, Along the direction from the air inlet side to the air outlet side of the condenser, the refrigerant heat exchanger is located below the condensate heat exchanger.

5. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air conditioner also includes: A water pump drive unit, which is connected to the main control unit, is used to drive the drainage pump to operate.

6. The air conditioner according to claim 5, characterized in that, The water pump drive unit includes: The pump driver chip outputs a signal from its speed feedback pin to the main control unit for real-time detection of the pump speed. An overcurrent protection circuit is provided around the pump driver chip to protect the pump motor from overcurrent.

7. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air conditioner also includes: A valve drive unit is connected to the main control unit and is also electrically connected to the first valve and the second valve. When the main control unit outputs a first control signal, the valve drive unit drives the first valve to open or close. When the main control unit outputs a second control signal, the valve drive unit drives the second valve to open or close.

8. The air conditioner according to claim 7, characterized in that, The valve actuation unit includes: The valve drive chip has multiple input pins and multiple output pins corresponding to the multiple input pins. The multiple input pins are connected to multiple output terminals of the main control unit, and two input pins are used to receive the first control signal and the second control signal. Multiple relays are provided, one of which controls the on / off state of a valve. One end of the relay coil is connected to a power source, and the other end is connected to the output pin corresponding to the input pin. The normally open switch of the relay is connected in series with the power supply line that provides power to the valve, so that the valve is connected when the normally open switch is closed and disconnected when the normally open switch is open.

9. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The indoor heat exchanger includes: The fin assembly is inclined toward the air inlet side of the indoor heat exchanger; A first heat exchange pipe runs through the fin assembly and has a first inlet and a first outlet. The first inlet receives refrigerant entering the indoor unit and flows back to the compressor from the first outlet. The second heat exchange pipe passes through the fin assembly and is located below the first heat exchange pipe. The second heat exchange pipe has a second inlet and a second outlet. The second inlet is the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger, and the second outlet is the outlet of the condensate heat exchanger.

10. An air conditioner, comprising: Indoor unit, which includes an indoor heat exchanger; The outdoor unit has an outdoor heat exchanger, the indoor heat exchanger is one of the evaporator and condenser, and the outdoor heat exchanger is the other. A drip tray, placed inside the indoor unit, is used to collect the condensate produced when the air conditioner is in cooling operation and the airflow passes through the indoor heat exchanger. A drain pump is installed inside the water receiving pan and has an inlet and a drain outlet. The inlet is connected to the water receiving pan, and the drain outlet is used to discharge the condensate in the water receiving pan to the outside. Its features are, The indoor heat exchanger includes a condensate heat exchanger and a refrigerant heat exchanger that can exchange heat with each other. The refrigerant undergoes a refrigeration cycle through the compressor, outdoor heat exchanger, throttling element and refrigerant heat exchanger in the outdoor unit. The drain pump also has a bypass port connected to the inlet for introducing condensate into the inlet of the condensate heat exchanger, and the outlet of the condensate heat exchanger is connected to the drip tray. The air conditioner also includes: Condensate pipe temperature sensor, which is used to detect the inlet water temperature at the condensate heat exchanger inlet; Indoor return air temperature sensor, used to detect indoor return air temperature; The main control unit determines whether the inlet water temperature has reached the preset lower limit and whether the indoor return air temperature difference has reached the preset lower limit when the air conditioner is in cooling operation and the water level in the water tray reaches the first water level but has not reached the second water level. If both are true, the unit controls the outdoor unit to stop and the drain pump to run, so that some condensate is discharged and some condensate is introduced into the condensate heat exchanger for heat exchange. Otherwise, the unit keeps the outdoor unit running and the drain pump running, so that some condensate is discharged and some condensate is introduced into the condensate heat exchanger for heat exchange. The second water level is higher than the first water level.

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