Mobile air conditioner and control method thereof

Abstract

The application provides a mobile air conditioner and a control method thereof. The mobile air conditioner comprises an air path control device and a condenser. The air path control device is configured to make indoor air flow and outdoor air flow exchange heat with the condenser alternatively. At least two defrosting protection programs are preset in the mobile air conditioner to trigger a protection mechanism. The control method comprises the following steps: obtaining indoor ambient temperature and outdoor ambient temperature; adjusting the air path control device and / or an outdoor fan according to the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature, and selecting one defrosting protection program to trigger the protection mechanism; and entering a defrosting program at least in response to triggering of the protection mechanism. The application solves the problem that the defrosting protection schemes of the mobile air conditioner of the single air duct type and the double air duct type are quite different.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of air conditioner technology, and in particular to a portable air conditioner and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] Portable air conditioners, unlike conventional split-type air conditioners, have their indoor and outdoor units integrated into a single unit, arranged in the same space, resulting in a relatively compact structure. Portable air conditioners use ductwork to connect the unit to the outdoor unit. Based on the number of ducts, they are divided into single-duct and double-duct models. Double-duct models draw air in from the outdoor unit through one duct, circulate it internally, and then expel it to the outdoor unit through the other duct. Single-duct models draw air directly from the indoor unit, circulate it internally, and then expel it to the outdoor unit through a single duct. In single-duct models, the temperature difference between the indoor and outdoor units is minimal; while in double-duct models, the temperature difference between the drawn-in outdoor air and the indoor unit is significant.

[0003] When a portable air conditioner is defrosting, the defrosting protection scheme is determined by the change in coil temperature. However, the duct temperature conditions of single-duct and dual-duct models differ greatly, resulting in significant differences in coil temperature changes between the two models. Consequently, there are substantial differences in the defrosting protection schemes for single-duct and dual-duct models. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the above problems, the present invention is proposed to provide a portable air conditioner and its control method that overcome or at least partially solve the above problems, and can solve the problem that there are significant differences in the defrosting protection schemes of single-duct and dual-duct portable air conditioners, so as to achieve compatibility between single-duct and dual-duct portable air conditioners.

[0005] Specifically, the present invention provides a control method for a portable air conditioner, the portable air conditioner including an airflow control device and a condenser, the airflow control device being configured to selectively exchange heat with the condenser between indoor airflow and outdoor airflow; the portable air conditioner has at least two preset defrost protection programs to trigger the protection mechanism;

[0006] The control method includes: acquiring the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature; adjusting the airflow control device and / or the outdoor fan according to the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature; selecting a defrost protection program to trigger the protection mechanism; and entering the defrost program at least in response to the triggering of the protection mechanism.

[0007] Optionally, the defrosting protection program includes a first program and a second program; acquiring indoor ambient temperature and outdoor ambient temperature; adjusting the airflow control device and / or the outdoor fan according to the indoor ambient temperature and outdoor ambient temperature; and selecting a defrosting protection program, including a first selection program, a second selection program and a third selection program.

[0008] The first selection procedure includes: when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is less than or equal to a first preset difference, allowing the indoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser; acquiring the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature again; selecting the first procedure and entering the first procedure when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is less than or equal to the first preset difference; and entering the second selection procedure when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than the first preset difference.

[0009] The second selection procedure includes: when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than the first preset difference, allowing the outdoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser; obtaining the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature again; selecting the second procedure when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than the second preset difference, and entering the second procedure.

[0010] When the difference between indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures is greater than a first preset difference but less than or equal to a second preset difference, the third selection procedure is initiated; when the difference between indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures is less than or equal to the first preset difference, the first selection procedure is initiated.

[0011] The third selection procedure includes:

[0012] The indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures are acquired again; if the difference between the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures is greater than the second preset difference, the second program is selected and the program is entered; otherwise, the indoor airflow is allowed to exchange heat with the condenser, the first program is selected, and the program is entered.

[0013] The first preset difference is less than the second preset difference.

[0014] Optionally, the first procedure includes: acquiring the indoor coil temperature and determining whether to trigger the protection mechanism based on the indoor coil temperature.

[0015] Optionally, the determination of whether to trigger the protection mechanism is based on the indoor coil temperature includes: determining whether to shut down the outdoor fan based on the indoor coil temperature; and determining whether to trigger the protection mechanism based at least on the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and the change in the indoor coil temperature.

[0016] Optionally, the case where the indoor coil temperature is continuously increased after the first preset number of times is considered a temperature increase case;

[0017] Determining when to shut down the outdoor fan based on the indoor coil temperature includes:

[0018] When the temperature increase occurs cumulatively or continuously for a second preset number of times, the difference between the last obtained indoor coil temperature and the first obtained indoor coil temperature in the last temperature increase is obtained; if the difference is greater than or equal to a third preset difference, the outdoor fan is turned off.

[0019] Optionally, the triggering of the protection mechanism may be determined based at least on the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and changes in the indoor coil temperature, including:

[0020] When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is less than the first preset duration, and the indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the first preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan is started when the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is equal to the first preset duration, and the process returns to determining the outdoor fan shutdown based on the indoor coil temperature.

[0021] When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is greater than or equal to the first preset duration and less than the second preset duration, and the indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the first preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan is started, and the system returns to determining the outdoor fan shutdown based on the indoor coil temperature.

[0022] If the outdoor fan is shut down for a duration greater than or equal to the second preset duration and the indoor coil temperature is greater than the first preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan will be turned on and the protection mechanism will be triggered.

[0023] Optionally, the second procedure includes:

[0024] Obtain the indoor coil temperature, outdoor coil temperature, outdoor ambient temperature, and temperature compensation value;

[0025] The budgeted temperature is obtained based on the outdoor ambient temperature and the temperature compensation value;

[0026] When the budgeted temperature is less than or equal to the fourth preset difference and the outdoor coil temperature is less than or equal to the first preset outdoor value, the outdoor fan is turned off.

[0027] The decision to trigger the protection mechanism should be based at least on the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and the changes in the indoor coil temperature.

[0028] Optionally, the triggering of the protection mechanism may be determined based at least on the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and changes in the indoor coil temperature, including:

[0029] When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is less than the first preset duration, and the indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the second preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan is started when the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is equal to the first preset duration, and the process returns to obtaining the indoor coil temperature, outdoor coil temperature, outdoor ambient temperature, and temperature compensation value.

[0030] When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is greater than or equal to the first preset duration and less than the second preset duration, and the indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the second preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan is started, and the system returns to the point of acquiring the indoor coil temperature, outdoor coil temperature, outdoor ambient temperature, and temperature compensation value.

[0031] If the outdoor fan is shut down for a duration greater than or equal to the second preset duration and the indoor coil temperature is greater than the second preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan will be turned on and the protection mechanism will be triggered.

[0032] Optionally, entering the defrosting procedure in response to the triggering of the protection mechanism includes: entering the defrosting procedure in response to the triggering of the protection mechanism and in response to the running time of the outdoor fan and / or the running time of the compressor meeting a first preset condition.

[0033] The present invention also provides a portable air conditioner, which includes an airflow control device and a condenser. The airflow control device is configured to selectively exchange heat between indoor airflow and outdoor airflow with the condenser. The portable air conditioner also includes a controller, which includes a memory, a processor, and a machine-executable program stored in the memory and running on the processor. When the processor executes the machine-executable program, it implements the control method described in any of the above claims.

[0034] The control method for the portable air conditioner of this invention employs a technique of adjusting the airflow control device and / or adjusting the outdoor fan based on the detected indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures, while simultaneously selecting a defrost protection program to trigger a protection mechanism. When the protection mechanism is triggered, the defrost program is initiated. The airflow control device adjusts the indoor and outdoor airflow to selectively exchange heat with the condenser, ensuring compatibility with both single-duct and dual-duct models. Furthermore, by adjusting the airflow control device and initiating the defrost program, the significant differences in defrost protection schemes between single-duct and dual-duct portable air conditioners are resolved, achieving compatibility with both types of portable air conditioners.

[0035] The above and other objects, advantages and features of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of specific embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The following sections will describe some specific embodiments of the invention in detail by way of example and not limitation, with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote the same or similar parts or portions. Those skilled in the art should understand that these drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. In the drawings:

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic flowchart of a control method for a portable air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart of a control method for a portable air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of a control method for a portable air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 4 This is a partial schematic flowchart of the first procedure in a control method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating the temperature increase process in a first procedure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating the determination of whether a protection mechanism is triggered in the first procedure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart of the second procedure in a control method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating the determination of whether to trigger a protection mechanism in the second procedure of a control method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 9 This is a schematic structural diagram of a controller in a portable air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The following reference Figures 1 to 9 This invention describes a portable air conditioner and its control method according to embodiments of the present invention. In this description, it should be understood that 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 indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature, that is, include one or more of that feature. In the description of the present invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified. When a feature "includes or contains" one or more of the features it encompasses, unless otherwise specifically described, this indicates that other features are not excluded and may be further included.

[0047] Unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "set up," "install," "connect," "link," "fix," and "couple" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; 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; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art should be able to understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0048] Furthermore, in the description of this embodiment, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or it can include contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. That is, in the description of this embodiment, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature being 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," or "below" of the second feature can mean the first feature is 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.

[0049] In the description of this embodiment, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic flowchart of a control method for a portable air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 1 As shown, and refer to Figures 2 to 8 This invention provides a control method for a portable air conditioner. The portable air conditioner includes an airflow control device and a condenser. The airflow control device is configured to allow either indoor airflow or outdoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser. The portable air conditioner has at least two preset defrost protection programs to trigger the protection mechanism.

[0051] The control method for portable air conditioners includes the following steps:

[0052] Step S1: Obtain the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0053] Step S2: Adjust the airflow control device and the outdoor fan according to the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures, and select a defrost protection program to trigger the protection mechanism.

[0054] Step S5: At least in response to the triggering of the protection mechanism, enter the defrosting procedure.

[0055] In this embodiment, when the portable air conditioner is turned on in heating mode, the compressor in the portable air conditioner starts, the four-way valve opens, and the outdoor fan starts according to the starting fan speed, which is level three fan speed, and can be determined according to the actual situation.

[0056] This embodiment uses "indoor ambient temperature" and "outdoor ambient temperature" as judgment conditions. Based on the relationship between the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures, the airflow control device is adjusted to allow heat exchange between the indoor airflow and the condenser, or between the outdoor airflow and the condenser. Simultaneously, the outdoor fan speed, its on / off status, and other functions are adjusted based on the relationship between the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures. Furthermore, a defrosting protection program is selected based on the relationship between the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures to trigger the protection mechanism, thereby initiating the defrosting process.

[0057] The control method in this embodiment allows for rapid adjustment of the temperature difference between the indoor and outdoor environments by regulating the outdoor fan. The airflow control device allows either indoor or outdoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser, making it compatible with both single-duct and dual-duct models. Furthermore, by adjusting the airflow control device and entering the defrost program, it resolves the significant differences in defrost protection schemes between single-duct and dual-duct portable air conditioners, achieving compatibility with both types of portable air conditioners.

[0058] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 2 As shown, the control method for a portable air conditioner includes the following steps:

[0059] Step S1: Obtain the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0060] Step S3: Adjust the airflow control device according to the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures, and select a defrost protection program to trigger the protection mechanism.

[0061] Step S5: At least in response to the triggering of the protection mechanism, enter the defrosting procedure.

[0062] In this embodiment, "indoor ambient temperature" and "outdoor ambient temperature" are used as judgment conditions. The airflow control device is adjusted according to the relationship between the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures to allow heat exchange between the indoor airflow and the condenser, or between the outdoor airflow and the condenser. At the same time, a defrosting protection program is selected based on the relationship between the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures to trigger the protection mechanism, thereby entering the defrosting program for defrosting.

[0063] The control method of this embodiment adjusts the airflow control device to allow the indoor airflow and outdoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser selectively. This method is compatible with both single-duct and dual-duct models. Furthermore, after adjusting the airflow control device and entering the defrost program, it solves the problem of significant differences in defrost protection schemes between single-duct and dual-duct portable air conditioners, thus achieving the goal of compatibility between defrost protection schemes for both types of portable air conditioners.

[0064] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 3 As shown, the control method for a portable air conditioner includes the following steps:

[0065] Step S1: Obtain the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0066] Step S4: Adjust the outdoor fan according to the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures, and select a defrost protection program to trigger the protection mechanism.

[0067] Step S5: At least in response to the triggering of the protection mechanism, enter the defrosting procedure.

[0068] In this embodiment, "indoor ambient temperature" and "outdoor ambient temperature" are used as judgment conditions. The wind speed of the outdoor fan and the opening or closing of the outdoor fan are adjusted according to the relationship between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature. At the same time, a defrosting protection program is selected according to the relationship between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature to trigger the protection mechanism, and then the defrosting program is entered to perform defrosting.

[0069] The control method in this embodiment allows for rapid adjustment of the indoor ambient temperature by regulating the fan speed and switching the fan on or off, quickly bringing the indoor temperature to the preset level and improving the user experience. Simultaneously, initiating the defrost cycle maintains the heating effect of the portable air conditioner and prevents damage caused by frost buildup, thus extending its lifespan.

[0070] In some embodiments of the present invention, the portable air conditioner includes a housing, a condenser, an outdoor air inlet duct, an indoor air inlet grille, and an airflow control device, wherein the indoor air inlet grille is located on the housing. The airflow control device includes a first valve and a second valve. The first valve is located at the junction of the housing and the outdoor air inlet duct. When the first valve is open, it connects the outdoor air inlet duct to the condenser inside the housing, allowing outdoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser. When the first valve is closed, it disconnects the outdoor air inlet duct from the condenser. The second valve is located at the indoor air inlet grille on the housing. When the second valve is open, it allows indoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser. When the second valve is closed, it cuts off the flow of indoor airflow to the condenser.

[0071] An external ambient temperature sensor is installed at the junction of the first valve and the outdoor air inlet duct, located outside the casing, to detect the outdoor ambient temperature. The indoor temperature sensor is installed at any location within the indoor section of the portable air conditioner, depending on the specific circumstances. This invention is applicable when the indoor ambient temperature is higher than the outdoor ambient temperature, i.e., when using the portable air conditioner's heating mode to raise the indoor temperature during autumn and winter.

[0072] In some embodiments of the present invention, the defrosting protection procedure includes a first procedure and a second procedure. This involves acquiring the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures, adjusting the airflow control device and / or the outdoor fan based on the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures, and selecting a defrosting protection procedure, including a first selection procedure, a second selection procedure, and a third selection procedure.

[0073] The first selection procedure includes: when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is less than or equal to a first preset difference, allowing the indoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser; obtaining the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature again; selecting the first procedure and entering the first procedure when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is less than or equal to the first preset difference; and entering the second selection procedure when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than the first preset difference.

[0074] The second selection procedure includes: when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than the first preset difference, allowing the outdoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser; obtaining the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature again; selecting the second procedure when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than the second preset difference, and entering the second procedure.

[0075] When the difference between indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures is greater than a first preset difference but less than or equal to a second preset difference, the third selection program is initiated; when the difference between indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures is less than or equal to the first preset difference, the first selection program is initiated.

[0076] The third selection procedure includes: acquiring the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures again; selecting the second procedure and entering the second procedure when the difference between the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures is greater than a second preset difference; otherwise, allowing the indoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser, selecting the first procedure, and entering the first procedure.

[0077] The first preset difference is less than the second preset difference.

[0078] In this embodiment, the relationship between the detected difference between the "indoor ambient temperature" and the "outdoor ambient temperature" and a preset difference is used as a criterion to determine whether to adjust the airflow control device, and whether to enter the first program, the second program, or to acquire the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures again. When continuously acquiring the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures, the acquisition only ends after completing the third selection program and entering the first or second program. Furthermore, a time interval is required before each acquisition of the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures; this interval can be determined based on actual conditions.

[0079] For example, after the portable air conditioner is turned on in heating mode, it acquires the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures at first preset intervals and enters a first selection program to determine the relationship between the difference between the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures and a first preset difference. When the difference is less than or equal to the first preset difference, the first valve closes and the second valve opens, allowing the indoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser.

[0080] Then, after a second preset time interval, the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures are acquired again, and the relationship between the difference between the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures and the first preset difference is determined. When the difference acquired again is less than or equal to the first preset difference, the first program is entered to perform defrosting protection; when the difference acquired again is greater than the first preset difference, the second selection program is entered and the first valve is opened and the second valve is closed, allowing the outdoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser.

[0081] Then, after a third preset time, the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures are acquired again, and the relationship between the difference between the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures and a preset difference is determined. When the difference is greater than a second preset difference, the second program is initiated for defrosting protection; when the difference is less than a first preset difference, the first selection program is initiated; when the difference is greater than the first preset difference and less than or equal to the second preset difference, the wind speed of the outdoor fan is adjusted to level four, and the third selection program is initiated.

[0082] After entering the third selection program, the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures are acquired again after a second preset time. The relationship between the difference between the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures and the second preset difference is determined. When the difference is greater than the second preset temperature, the second program is entered for defrosting protection. When the difference is not greater than the second preset temperature, the first valve is closed and the second valve is opened, allowing the indoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser, and the first program is entered for defrosting protection.

[0083] Preferably, the first preset difference is 2℃, the second preset difference is 5℃~7℃, and the first and second preset differences can be determined according to the actual situation; the first preset time is 10 seconds, the second preset time is 30 seconds, and the third preset time is 60 seconds, and the first, second, and third preset times can be adjusted according to the actual situation.

[0084] The control method of this embodiment determines the state of the air duct control device based on the relationship between the difference between the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures and the preset difference, and determines whether to enter the first program or the second program. It is compatible with the defrosting protection scheme of single-duct and dual-duct models, and selects the defrosting protection program to be entered by the portable air conditioner in a refined manner, so as to achieve the purpose of refined defrosting and improve the user experience.

[0085] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first procedure includes: acquiring the indoor coil temperature and determining whether to trigger a protection mechanism based on the indoor coil temperature.

[0086] When the portable air conditioner enters the first program, the airflow control device keeps the first valve closed and the second valve open, allowing heat exchange between the indoor airflow and the condenser. The airflow control device will only change when the portable air conditioner is turned off or exits the heating mode.

[0087] In this embodiment, the first step of the defrost protection program uses the "indoor coil temperature" as the criterion for whether to trigger the protection mechanism. When the indoor coil temperature meets the preset condition, the portable air conditioner triggers the protection mechanism; when the indoor coil temperature does not meet the preset condition, the portable air conditioner does not trigger the protection mechanism. Furthermore, a temperature sensor is installed on the indoor coil of the portable air conditioner to detect the temperature of the indoor coil; the location of this temperature sensor can be determined according to the actual situation.

[0088] Compared with the control logic in single-duct or dual-duct models that lack a protection mechanism, the control method of this embodiment determines whether to trigger the protection mechanism based on the indoor coil temperature, making the defrosting protection of the portable air conditioner more refined.

[0089] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 4As shown, determining whether to trigger the protection mechanism based on the indoor coil temperature includes the following steps:

[0090] Step S11: Determine when to shut down the outdoor fan based on the indoor coil temperature.

[0091] Step S12: Determine whether to trigger the protection mechanism based at least on the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and the change in indoor coil temperature.

[0092] In this embodiment, when the acquired indoor coil temperature meets a preset condition, the portable air conditioner stops the outdoor fan and records the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown. Then, it determines whether to trigger the protection mechanism based on the outdoor fan shutdown duration and the change in indoor coil temperature and their corresponding preset relationship. When the outdoor fan shutdown duration and the change in indoor coil temperature meet their corresponding preset relationship, the portable air conditioner triggers the protection mechanism; when the outdoor fan shutdown duration or the change in indoor coil temperature does not meet their corresponding preset relationship, the portable air conditioner does not trigger the protection mechanism.

[0093] Alternatively, the protection mechanism can be triggered based on the preset relationships between the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown, the changes in the indoor coil temperature, and the duration of the indoor coil temperature exceeding the preset temperature. The portable air conditioner triggers the protection mechanism when each of these preset relationships is met; otherwise, it does not trigger the protection mechanism.

[0094] Compared with the direct triggering of the protection mechanism in single-duct or dual-duct models, the control method of this embodiment determines whether the protection mechanism is triggered based on at least the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and the change in the indoor coil temperature. This makes the method for determining whether the protection mechanism is triggered more refined, thereby improving the accuracy of the portable air conditioner in determining whether the protection mechanism is triggered.

[0095] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 5 As shown, the situation where the indoor coil temperature increases sequentially after the first preset number of times is considered a temperature increase scenario. Determining when to shut down the outdoor fan based on the indoor coil temperature includes the following steps:

[0096] Step S21: When the temperature increase occurs cumulatively or continuously for a second preset number of times, obtain the difference between the last obtained indoor coil temperature and the first obtained indoor coil temperature in the last temperature increase situation.

[0097] Step S22: If the difference is greater than or equal to the third preset difference, then turn off the external fan.

[0098] Preferably, the indoor coil temperature is sampled once every sampling period. The first preset number of times is five, and the second preset number of times is five. The first and second preset numbers can be determined according to the actual situation.

[0099] For example, the portable air conditioner's memory stores five indoor coil temperatures, sequentially labeled Tp1, Tp2, Tp3, Tp4, and Tp5, and stored in corresponding locations within the memory. When the indoor ambient temperature (Tp6) is acquired for the sixth time, the indoor coil temperatures stored in the memory are updated to Tp1 = Tp2, Tp2 = Tp3, Tp3 = Tp4, Tp4 = Tp5, and Tp5 = Tp6; that is, the newly acquired indoor coil temperature is stored in the memory, and the indoor coil temperature with the longest interval between its acquisition and this new temperature is removed from the memory. This storage process is repeated every time a new indoor coil temperature is acquired.

[0100] Furthermore, when the indoor coil temperature increases sequentially for five consecutive times (Tp1 < Tp2 < Tp3 < Tp4 < Tp5), the relationship between the difference between Tp5 and Tp1 in the memory and the third preset difference is determined. If the difference is greater than or equal to the third preset difference, the indoor coil temperature is considered to be in a phased upward state, and the outdoor fan is turned off. The shutdown time of the outdoor fan is greater than or equal to the first preset time. If the difference is less than the third preset difference, the indoor coil temperature is acquired again, and the first program is executed.

[0101] Alternatively, when Tp1 < Tp2 < Tp3 < Tp4 < Tp5 occurs, the relationship between the difference between Tp5 and Tp1 in the memory and the third preset difference is determined. If the difference is greater than or equal to the third preset difference, the indoor coil temperature is considered to be in a phased rising state and the outdoor fan is turned off. The shutdown time of the outdoor fan is greater than or equal to the first preset time. If the difference is less than the third preset difference, the indoor coil temperature is acquired and the first program is executed.

[0102] The control method in this embodiment, compared with determining whether to turn off the outdoor fan based on a single indoor coil temperature measurement, makes the method of determining whether to turn off the outdoor fan more refined by determining whether to turn off the outdoor fan based on multiple indoor coil temperatures, thereby making the control of the outdoor fan on / off of the portable air conditioner more precise.

[0103] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 6 As shown, the determination of whether to trigger the protection mechanism should be based at least on the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and the change in indoor coil temperature, including the following steps:

[0104] Step S30: When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is less than the first preset duration, and the indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the first preset coil temperature, start the outdoor fan when the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is equal to the first preset duration, and return to the step of determining the outdoor fan shutdown based on the indoor coil temperature.

[0105] Step S31: When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is greater than or equal to the first preset duration and less than the second preset duration, and the indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the first preset coil temperature, start the outdoor fan and return to the step of determining the outdoor fan shutdown based on the indoor coil temperature.

[0106] Step S32: When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is greater than or equal to the second preset duration and the indoor coil temperature is greater than the first preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan is turned on and the protection mechanism is triggered.

[0107] Preferably, the second preset duration is longer than the first preset duration, and the first and second preset durations can be determined according to actual conditions; the first preset coil temperature can be determined according to actual conditions.

[0108] In this embodiment, when the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is less than the first preset duration and the detected indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the first preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan is started at the starting speed when the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is equal to the first preset duration, and the process returns to step S11.

[0109] When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is greater than or equal to the first preset duration and less than the second preset duration, and the detected indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the first preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan is started at the starting fan speed. At the same time, the process returns to step S11.

[0110] Preferably, the starting wind speed is level three, which can be determined according to the actual situation.

[0111] Compared to single-duct or dual-duct models that determine whether to trigger the protection mechanism based on a single indoor coil temperature reading, the control method in this embodiment allows for a more refined determination of whether the protection mechanism is triggered by the portable air conditioner, based on the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and changes in the indoor coil temperature. This improves the accuracy of the portable air conditioner's determination of whether the protection mechanism is triggered.

[0112] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 7 As shown, the second procedure includes the following steps:

[0113] Step S41: Obtain the indoor coil temperature, outdoor coil temperature, outdoor ambient temperature, and temperature compensation value.

[0114] Step S42: Obtain the budgeted temperature based on the outdoor ambient temperature and the temperature compensation value.

[0115] Step S43: When the budgeted temperature is less than or equal to the fourth preset difference and the outdoor coil temperature is less than or equal to the first preset outdoor value, turn off the outdoor fan.

[0116] Step S44: Determine whether to trigger the protection mechanism based at least on the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and the change in indoor coil temperature.

[0117] When the portable air conditioner enters the second program, the airflow control device keeps the second valve closed and the first valve open, allowing the outdoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser. The airflow control device can only change when the portable air conditioner is turned off or exits the heating mode.

[0118] Preferably, the fourth preset difference and the first preset outdoor value can be determined according to the actual situation; the temperature compensation value is a preset fixed value, the budget temperature is a calculated value obtained based on the outdoor ambient temperature and the temperature compensation value; the first preset temperature is 0℃.

[0119] In this embodiment, the formula for calculating the budget temperature is:

[0120] Te = C*Tao – Tc.

[0121] Where Te is the budgeted temperature, C is two constant values, Tao is the outdoor ambient temperature, and Tc is the temperature compensation value. C includes two constant values ​​C1 and C2, and C1 > C2; when the outdoor ambient temperature is lower than the first preset temperature, C = C1; when the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, C = C2.

[0122] When the budgeted temperature is less than or equal to the fourth preset difference and the outdoor coil temperature is less than or equal to the first preset outdoor value, the outdoor fan is shut down, and the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is greater than or equal to the first preset duration. When the budgeted temperature is greater than the fourth preset difference or the outdoor coil temperature is greater than the first preset outdoor value, the process returns to step S41. After the outdoor fan shuts down, the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is obtained, and the determination of whether to trigger the protection mechanism is based at least on the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and the change in the indoor coil temperature.

[0123] The control method in this embodiment determines whether to stop the outdoor fan by comparing the budgeted temperature and the outdoor coil temperature with their respective preset relationships. Then, it determines whether to trigger the protection mechanism by comparing the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and the change in the indoor coil temperature with their respective preset relationships. This refines the determination of whether the portable air conditioner has triggered the protection mechanism, thereby improving the accuracy of the determination.

[0124] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 8As shown, the determination of whether to trigger the protection mechanism should be based at least on the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and the change in indoor coil temperature, including the following steps:

[0125] Step S50: When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is less than the first preset duration, and the indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the second preset coil temperature, start the outdoor fan when the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is equal to the first preset duration, and return to the process of obtaining the indoor coil temperature, outdoor coil temperature, outdoor ambient temperature, and temperature compensation value.

[0126] Step S51: When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is greater than or equal to the first preset duration and less than the second preset duration, and the indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the second preset coil temperature, start the outdoor fan and return to the process of obtaining the indoor coil temperature, outdoor coil temperature, outdoor ambient temperature and temperature compensation value.

[0127] Step S52: When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is greater than or equal to the second preset duration and the indoor coil temperature is greater than the second preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan is turned on and the protection mechanism is triggered.

[0128] In this embodiment, the first preset duration in step S51 is the same as the first preset duration in step S31, the second preset duration in step S52 is the same as the second preset duration in step S32, and the second preset coil temperature can be determined according to the actual situation; the starting fan speed is level three, which can be determined according to the actual situation.

[0129] When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is less than the first preset duration and the detected indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the second preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan is started at the starting speed when the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is equal to the first preset duration, and the process returns to step S41.

[0130] When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is greater than or equal to the first preset duration and less than the second preset duration, and the indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the second preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan is started according to the start-up fan speed, and the process returns to step S41.

[0131] The control method in this embodiment uses the duration of the external fan shutdown and the indoor coil temperature as the criteria for determining whether the portable air conditioner has triggered the protection mechanism, thereby refining the determination of whether the portable air conditioner has triggered the protection mechanism and improving the accuracy of the determination.

[0132] In some embodiments of the present invention, entering the defrosting procedure in response to the triggering of the protection mechanism includes: entering the defrosting procedure in response to the triggering of the protection mechanism and in response to the running time of the outdoor fan and the running time of the compressor meeting a first preset condition.

[0133] In this embodiment, the first preset conditions include the outdoor fan's running time being greater than or equal to the seventh preset duration and the compressor's cumulative running time being greater than or equal to the eighth preset duration; and the outdoor fan's running time being greater than or equal to the seventh preset duration and the compressor's continuous running time being greater than or equal to the ninth preset duration.

[0134] Preferably, the seventh, eighth, and ninth preset durations are determined according to the actual situation.

[0135] The control method of this embodiment determines whether the compressor and the outdoor fan meet the first preset condition based on the already triggered protection mechanism, thereby refining the determination of whether the portable air conditioner should enter the defrost program and improving the accuracy of the portable air conditioner in determining whether to enter the defrost program.

[0136] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, entering the defrosting procedure in response to the triggering of the protection mechanism includes: entering the defrosting procedure in response to the triggering of the protection mechanism and in response to the running time of the external fan meeting a first preset condition.

[0137] The first preset condition is that the operating time of the external fan is greater than or equal to the seventh preset duration.

[0138] By using the control method of this embodiment, based on the already triggered protection mechanism, it is determined whether the outdoor fan meets the first preset condition, which makes the determination of whether the portable air conditioner enters the defrost program more refined, thereby improving the accuracy of the portable air conditioner in determining whether to enter the defrost program.

[0139] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, entering the defrosting program in response to the triggering of the protection mechanism includes: entering the defrosting program in response to the triggering of the protection mechanism and in response to the compressor's running time meeting a first preset condition.

[0140] The first preset condition includes that the cumulative running time of the compressor is greater than or equal to the eighth preset duration; and that the continuous running time of the compressor is greater than or equal to the ninth preset duration.

[0141] By using the control method of this embodiment, based on the already triggered protection mechanism, it is determined whether the compressor meets the first preset condition, thereby refining the determination of whether the portable air conditioner should enter the defrost program and improving the accuracy of the portable air conditioner in determining whether to enter the defrost program.

[0142] In some embodiments of the present invention, the defrosting procedure includes: turning off the compressor, starting the outdoor fan and running it continuously for an eleventh preset time, and then closing the four-way valve; when the four-way valve is closed for a twelfth preset time, starting the compressor and turning off the outdoor fan.

[0143] The control method in this embodiment adjusts the state of the compressor, four-way valve, and outdoor fan to defrost the portable air conditioner, and allows the outdoor fan to run for a sufficient time to improve the defrosting effect of the portable air conditioner.

[0144] In some embodiments of the present invention, the control method further includes: acquiring the outdoor coil temperature and the duration of the defrosting program, and exiting the defrosting program when the outdoor coil temperature is greater than or equal to a sixth preset temperature and the duration is greater than or equal to a thirteenth preset duration.

[0145] Alternatively, obtain the duration of the defrost protection program, and exit the defrost program when the duration of the defrost protection program is greater than or equal to the tenth preset duration.

[0146] Preferably, the sixth preset temperature, the tenth preset duration, and the thirteenth preset duration are determined according to actual needs.

[0147] With the control method of this embodiment, when the outdoor coil temperature meets the above-mentioned preset conditions or the duration of the defrost protection program meets the above-mentioned preset conditions, the portable air conditioner exits the defrost program, ensuring that the portable air conditioner has sufficient defrost time and improving the defrost effect of the portable air conditioner.

[0148] In some embodiments of the present invention, the control method further includes: after the portable air conditioner exits the defrost program, stopping the compressor and turning on the outdoor fan at its starting speed; after the outdoor fan has run for an eleventh preset time, opening the four-way valve to adjust the outdoor fan speed to level four; and after the four-way valve has been open for a twelfth preset time, turning on the compressor. Thereafter, the defrost protection program restarts in heating mode.

[0149] Preferably, the starting wind speed is level three, and the eleventh and twelfth preset durations can be determined according to the actual situation.

[0150] The present invention also provides a portable air conditioner, which includes an airflow control device and a condenser. The airflow control device is configured to selectively exchange heat between indoor airflow and outdoor airflow with the condenser. The portable air conditioner also includes a controller 50, which includes a memory 520, a processor 510, and a machine-executable program 41 stored in the memory 520 and running on the processor 510. When the processor 510 executes the machine-executable program 41, it implements the control method described in any one of the above embodiments.

[0151] It should be noted that the logic and / or steps represented in the flowchart or otherwise described herein, for example, can be considered as a sequenced list of executable instructions for implementing logical functions, and can be specifically implemented in any computer-readable medium for use by, or in conjunction with, an instruction execution system, apparatus or device (such as a computer-based system, a processor-included system or other system that can fetch and execute instructions from, an instruction execution system, apparatus or device).

[0152] It should be understood that various parts of the present invention can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof. In the above embodiments, multiple steps or methods can be implemented in software or firmware stored in memory and executed by a suitable instruction execution system. For example, if implemented in hardware, as in another embodiment, it can be implemented using any one or a combination of the following techniques known in the art: discrete logic circuits having logic gates for implementing logical functions on data signals, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) having suitable combinational logic gates, programmable gate arrays (PGAs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc.

[0153] Therefore, those skilled in the art should recognize that although numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described in detail herein, many other variations or modifications conforming to the principles of the present invention can be directly determined or derived from the disclosure of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the scope of the present invention should be understood and construed as covering all such other variations or modifications.

Claims

1. A control method for a portable air conditioner, characterized in that, The portable air conditioner includes an airflow control device and a condenser, wherein the airflow control device is configured to selectively exchange heat with the condenser between indoor airflow and outdoor airflow. The portable air conditioner is equipped with at least two pre-set defrost protection programs to trigger the protection mechanism; The control method includes: The system acquires the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature; adjusts the airflow control device and / or the outdoor fan according to the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature, and selects one of the defrosting protection programs to trigger the protection mechanism. At least in response to the triggering of the protection mechanism, the defrosting procedure is initiated; The defrosting protection procedure includes a first procedure and a second procedure; The system acquires indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures, adjusts the airflow control device and / or the outdoor fan based on the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures, and selects a defrosting protection program, including a first selection program, a second selection program, and a third selection program. The first selection procedure includes: when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is less than or equal to a first preset difference, allowing the indoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser; acquiring the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature again; selecting the first procedure and entering the first procedure when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is less than or equal to the first preset difference; and entering the second selection procedure when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than the first preset difference. The second selection procedure includes: when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than a first preset difference, allowing outdoor airflow to exchange heat with the condenser; acquiring the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature again; selecting the second procedure and entering the second procedure when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than a second preset difference; entering the third selection procedure when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is greater than the first preset difference and less than or equal to the second preset difference; and entering the first selection procedure when the difference between the indoor ambient temperature and the outdoor ambient temperature is less than or equal to the first preset difference. The third selection procedure includes: The indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures are acquired again; if the difference between the indoor and outdoor ambient temperatures is greater than a second preset difference, the second program is selected and the second program is entered; otherwise, the indoor airflow is allowed to exchange heat with the condenser, and the first program is selected and the first program is entered. The first preset difference is less than the second preset difference.

2. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first procedure includes: Obtain the indoor coil temperature, and determine whether to trigger the protection mechanism based on the indoor coil temperature.

3. The control method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The method of determining whether to trigger the protection mechanism based on the indoor coil temperature includes: The outdoor fan is shut down based on the indoor coil temperature. Whether the protection mechanism is triggered is determined based at least on the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and the change in the indoor coil temperature.

4. The control method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The case where the indoor coil temperature increases sequentially after the first preset number of consecutive acquisitions is the case of temperature increase. The method of determining the outdoor fan shutdown based on the indoor coil temperature includes: When the temperature increase occurs cumulatively or continuously for a second preset number of times, the difference between the last obtained indoor coil temperature and the first obtained indoor coil temperature in the last temperature increase situation is obtained. If the difference is greater than or equal to a third preset difference, then the external fan is turned off.

5. The control method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The determination of whether to trigger the protection mechanism based at least on the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and the change in the indoor coil temperature includes: When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is less than the first preset duration, and the indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the first preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan is started when the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is equal to the first preset duration, and the process returns to determining the outdoor fan shutdown based on the indoor coil temperature. When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is greater than or equal to the first preset duration and less than the second preset duration, and when the indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the first preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan is started, and the process returns to determining the outdoor fan shutdown based on the indoor coil temperature. If the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is greater than or equal to the second preset duration and the indoor coil temperature is greater than the first preset coil temperature, then the outdoor fan will be turned on and the protection mechanism will be triggered.

6. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second procedure includes: Obtain the indoor coil temperature, outdoor coil temperature, outdoor ambient temperature, and temperature compensation value; The budgeted temperature is obtained based on the outdoor ambient temperature and the temperature compensation value; When the budgeted temperature is less than or equal to the fourth preset difference and the outdoor coil temperature is less than or equal to the first preset outdoor value, the outdoor fan is turned off. Whether the protection mechanism is triggered is determined based at least on the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and the change in the indoor coil temperature.

7. The control method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The determination of whether to trigger the protection mechanism based at least on the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown and the change in the indoor coil temperature includes: When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is less than the first preset duration, and the indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the second preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan is started when the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is equal to the first preset duration, and the process returns to obtaining the indoor coil temperature, outdoor coil temperature, outdoor ambient temperature, and temperature compensation value. When the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is greater than or equal to the first preset duration and less than the second preset duration, and when the indoor coil temperature drops to less than or equal to the second preset coil temperature, the outdoor fan is started, and the process returns to acquiring the indoor coil temperature, outdoor coil temperature, outdoor ambient temperature, and temperature compensation value. If the duration of the outdoor fan shutdown is greater than or equal to the second preset duration and the indoor coil temperature is greater than the second preset coil temperature, then the outdoor fan will be turned on and the protection mechanism will be triggered.

8. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned response to the triggering of the protection mechanism, entering the defrosting procedure, includes: In response to the triggering of the protection mechanism, and in response to the running time of the external fan and / or the running time of the compressor meeting the first preset condition, the defrosting procedure is initiated.

9. A portable air conditioner, the portable air conditioner comprising an airflow control device and a condenser, the airflow control device being configured to selectively exchange heat between indoor airflow and outdoor airflow with the condenser, further comprising: A controller, comprising a memory, a processor, and a machine-executable program stored in the memory and running on the processor, wherein the processor, when executing the machine-executable program, implements the control method according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

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