Air conditioner

Abstract

The invention discloses an air conditioner which comprises a refrigerant loop, and the refrigerant loop comprises a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, a pressure reducer, an outdoor heat exchanger and a four-way valve. The outdoor heat exchanger comprises a plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies, a first header pipe and a second header pipe, the first header pipe is connected with the heat exchange sub-bodies and the pressure reducer, and the second header pipe is connected with the heat exchange sub-bodies and the four-way valve; the plurality of exhaust connecting pipes are respectively and selectively communicated with the outlet of the compressor; the multiple switching valves are connected with the multiple heat exchange sub-bodies in a one-to-one correspondence mode, the multiple switching valves are connected with the multiple exhaust connecting pipes in a one-to-one correspondence mode and connected with the first header pipe, and each switching valve enables one of the first header pipe and the exhaust connecting pipe to be communicated with the corresponding heat exchange sub-body. Thus, when a certain heat exchange sub-body reaches the defrosting condition, a high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant of the compressor enters the heat exchange sub-body from the position, a frost layer of the heat exchange sub-body is removed, and other heat exchange sub-bodies still participate in heating of the system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of air conditioners, and particularly to an air conditioner. Background Art

[0002] Air conditioners are commonly used household appliances, and generally have refrigeration and heating functions. When the air conditioner operates in heating mode in a relatively cold environment, defrosting is required after the condenser of the outdoor unit of the air conditioner frosts.

[0003] In related technologies, the defrosting method is to first stop the heating operation. If the frost still cannot be completely removed, the refrigeration mode is switched. At this time, the high-temperature refrigerant condenses and releases heat in the condenser, and the heat melts the frost in the condenser, so as to achieve the purpose of defrosting.

[0004] However, since the indoor unit is in the process of evaporation and heat absorption, the indoor side is in a cooling state, and the air conditioner is in the anti-cold wind state, it cannot ensure that hot air is blown out during the defrosting stage, resulting in a rapid drop in the room temperature, thus causing user complaints. In addition, when testing the heating seasonal energy efficiency ratio of the air conditioner, the defrosting heating capacity is negative. If the defrosting time is longer, the value will be lower when calculating the seasonal energy efficiency ratio. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. For this purpose, the present invention provides an air conditioner. When a certain heat exchange sub-body reaches the defrosting condition, the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant of the compressor enters the heat exchange sub-body from here, removing the frost layer of the heat exchange sub-body, and other heat exchange sub-bodies still participate in the heating of the system.

[0006] An air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a refrigerant circuit, the refrigerant circuit including a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, a pressure reducer, an outdoor heat exchanger, and a four-way valve. The pressure reducer is respectively connected to the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger, and the inlet of the compressor, the outlet of the compressor, the indoor heat exchanger, and the outdoor heat exchanger are respectively connected to the four-way valve; the outdoor heat exchanger includes: a plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies; a first main pipe, the first main pipe is respectively connected to the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies and the pressure reducer; a second main pipe, the second main pipe is respectively connected to the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies and the four-way valve; wherein, the air conditioner further includes: a plurality of exhaust connection pipes, the plurality of exhaust connection pipes are respectively selectively communicated with the outlet of the compressor; a plurality of switching valves, the plurality of switching valves are connected to the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies in one-to-one correspondence, the plurality of switching valves are connected to the plurality of exhaust connection pipes in one-to-one correspondence and are connected to the first main pipe, and each switching valve enables one of the first main pipe and the exhaust connection pipe to communicate with the corresponding heat exchange sub-body; when the air conditioner operates in the heating mode and the defrosting mode simultaneously, the four-way valve connects the outlet of the compressor to the indoor heat exchanger, and connects the inlet of the compressor and the second main pipe, and a part of the plurality of switching valves enables the first main pipe to communicate with the corresponding heat exchange sub-body, so that a part of the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies are used for heating, and another part of the plurality of switching valves enables the corresponding exhaust connection pipe to communicate with the corresponding heat exchange sub-body, so that another part of the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies are used for defrosting.

[0007] For the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention, when a certain heat exchange sub-body reaches the defrosting condition, the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant of the compressor reaches the switching valve from here, enters the heat exchange sub-body, and removes the frost layer of the heat exchange sub-body. The other heat exchange sub-bodies still participate in the heating of the system, so as to achieve heating and defrosting without switching to refrigeration, and the defrosting air outlet temperature remains high.

[0008] According to some embodiments of the present invention, each switching valve includes: a valve body, the valve body is provided with a first valve port, a second valve port, and a third valve port, the first valve port is connected to the first main pipe, the second valve port is connected to the heat exchange sub-body, and the third valve port is connected to the exhaust connection pipe; a valve core, the valve core is arranged in the valve body, and the valve core selectively closes one of the first valve port and the third valve port, so that the other of the first valve port and the third valve port communicates with the second valve port.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the valve body is vertically arranged, the first valve port is arranged at the upper end of the valve body, the second valve port is arranged on the side wall of the valve body, the third valve port is arranged at the lower end of the valve body, the valve core is adapted to close the third valve port under the action of gravity, and is adapted to close the first valve port under the action of the refrigerant pressure conveyed by the exhaust connection pipe.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the valve core includes: a sliding part for sliding in the valve body; a first sealing part connected to the side of the sliding part facing the first valve port for sealing the first valve port.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the valve core further includes: a second sealing part arranged between the sliding part and the first sealing part; wherein, a third sealing part adapted to the second sealing part is arranged on the valve body, and the second sealing part and the third sealing part are in the shape of a matching cone.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the air conditioner further includes: a plurality of control valves, which are in one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of exhaust connection pipes and are all electrically connected to the controller, and the control valves are used to control the on-off of the corresponding exhaust connection pipes.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the air conditioner further includes: a first temperature sensing component for acquiring the temperatures of the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies; a controller electrically connected to the first temperature sensing component, and the controller is configured to: when the air conditioner operates in the heating mode, acquire the temperatures of the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies; judge whether each heat exchange sub-body meets the defrosting condition according to the temperature of each heat exchange sub-body; if it is judged that the heat exchange sub-body meets the defrosting condition, control the corresponding exhaust connection pipe to communicate with the switching valve to communicate the outlet of the compressor with the heat exchange sub-body for defrosting the heat exchange sub-body.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the controller is further configured to: determine the maximum temperature Tmax and the minimum temperature Tmin of the heat exchange sub-body during the operation time according to the temperature of each heat exchange sub-body; when the difference △T between Tmax and Tmin is greater than the preset difference △T1, judge the temperature change trend of the heat exchange sub-body during the target time period within the operation time, wherein the operation time includes a plurality of time periods; when the temperature change trend belongs to a downward trend, judge that the heat exchange sub-body meets the defrosting condition, wherein within the target time period, the temperatures of the heat exchange sub-body at adjacent moments or adjacent time periods decrease in sequence, and it is determined that the temperature change trend belongs to a downward trend.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the controller is further configured to: when multiple heat exchange sub-bodies meet the defrosting condition, control the heat exchange sub-body with the lowest temperature to defrost preferentially.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the air conditioner further includes: a second temperature sensing component for acquiring the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the second temperature sensing component is electrically connected to the controller; the controller is further configured to: after the heat exchange sub-body with the lowest temperature finishes defrosting preferentially and stops defrosting, when it is determined that the temperature rise value of the indoor heat exchanger reaches a preset value, control the heat exchange sub-body with the second lowest temperature to defrost.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the controller is further configured to: when it is determined that the heat exchange sub-body meets the stop defrosting condition, control the corresponding exhaust connecting pipe and the switching valve to disconnect, so as to disconnect the outlet of the compressor and the heat exchange sub-body, and connect the pressure reducer and the heat exchange sub-body to stop defrosting the heat exchange sub-body; the stop defrosting condition includes at least one of the following: the defrosting time of the heat exchange sub-body is greater than or equal to the first preset time t1; the temperature of the heat exchange sub-body is greater than or equal to the first predetermined temperature T1 and lasts for the second preset time t2.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, it further includes: an indoor fan arranged on one side of the indoor heat exchanger to send the air flow after heat exchange through the indoor heat exchanger into the room, and the indoor fan is electrically connected to the controller; a second temperature sensing component for acquiring the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the second temperature sensing component is electrically connected to the controller; the controller is further configured to: when the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is lower than the second predetermined temperature T2, control the rotation speed of the indoor fan to decrease from the current rotation speed to the first preset rotation speed V1; when the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is lower than the third predetermined temperature T3, control the rotation speed of the indoor fan to decrease from the current rotation speed to the second preset rotation speed V2, where V2 < V1; when the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is higher than the fourth predetermined temperature T4, control the rotation speed of the indoor fan to resume to the current rotation speed; where T4 > T2 > T3.

[0019] Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will be given in part in the following description, become apparent in part from the following description, or be learned through the practice of the present invention. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and be readily understood from the description of the embodiments in conjunction with the following drawings, where:

[0021] Figure 1 is a schematic structural diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 2 is a schematic structural view of an outdoor unit part according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 3 is a schematic structural view of an outdoor heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 4 is a front view of an outdoor heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 5 is a schematic structural view of an outdoor heat exchanger in a defrosting mode according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 6 is a schematic structural view of an outdoor heat exchanger in a heating mode according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 7 is a schematic structural view of a switching valve according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 8 is a sectional view of a valve body according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 9 is a schematic structural view of a valve core according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 10 is a schematic structural view of a third valve port and a second valve port of a switching valve communicating with each other according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 11 is a schematic structural view of a first valve port and a second valve port of a switching valve communicating with each other according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Reference numerals:

[0033] 100, air conditioner;

[0034] 10, outdoor heat exchanger; 11, heat exchange sub-body; 12, first main pipe; 13, second main pipe; 14, inflow branch pipe; 15, outflow branch pipe;

[0035] 20, switching valve; 21, valve body; 211, sliding cavity; 212, first valve port; 213, second valve port; 214, third valve port; 215, third sealing part; 22, valve core; 221, sliding part; 222, first sealing part; 223, second sealing part;

[0036] 31, exhaust connection pipe; 32, first temperature sensing assembly; 33, control valve;

[0037] 41. Compressor; 42. Outlet; 43. Inlet; 44. Four-way valve; 45. Indoor heat exchanger; 46. Pressure reducer. Detailed implementation manners

[0038] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below. The embodiments described with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary. The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below.

[0039] Reference will be made below Figures 1-11 to describe the air conditioner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The present invention also proposes a control method for the air conditioner 100.

[0040] Referring to Figure 1 as shown, the air conditioner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a refrigerant circuit, an outdoor unit part, and an indoor unit part.

[0041] Among them, in the refrigerant circuit, the refrigerant circulates sequentially through the compressor 41, the four-way valve 44, the outdoor heat exchanger 10, the pressure reducer 46, and the indoor heat exchanger 45.

[0042] The outdoor unit part is located on the outdoor side. The outdoor unit part includes a first housing and an outdoor fan, a compressor 41, and an outdoor heat exchanger 10 provided in the first housing. Specifically, the outdoor unit part of the air conditioner 100 is installed on a bracket outside the window sill for heat exchange with outdoor air. An outdoor air passage is formed in the first housing. The first housing is formed with an outdoor air inlet and an outdoor air outlet, that is, the outdoor air inlet and the outdoor air outlet are provided on the surface of the first housing. The outdoor air outlet is located on the side of the outdoor unit part facing the outdoor, and the outdoor air inlet is located on the side surface of the first housing, so that outdoor air enters the first housing from the two outdoor air inlets on both sides and then enters the outdoor from the outdoor air outlet.

[0043] The indoor unit part is located on the indoor side. The indoor unit part includes a second housing and an indoor air duct member, an indoor fan, and an indoor heat exchanger 45 provided in the second housing. The indoor fan is provided in the indoor air duct member. Specifically, the indoor unit part of the air conditioner 100 is installed on the window sill and indoors. An indoor air passage is formed in the second housing. Further, the second housing is formed with an indoor air inlet and an indoor air outlet. Both the indoor air outlet and the indoor air inlet are located on the side of the second housing facing the indoor, so that indoor air enters the second housing from the indoor air inlet and then enters the indoor from the indoor air outlet.

[0044] It can be understood that the first housing is arranged outdoors, and an outdoor air inlet and an outdoor air outlet for heat exchange with outdoor air are arranged on the first housing. Outdoor air enters the first housing from the outdoor air inlet and then enters the outdoors from the outdoor air outlet. The outdoor air passage is arranged inside the first housing, and the compressor 41, the outdoor heat exchanger 10, and the outdoor fan are all arranged inside the first housing. Outdoor air enters the first housing from the outdoor air inlet, exchanges heat inside the first housing, and is discharged outdoors from the outdoor air outlet.

[0045] The second housing is arranged indoors and is used for heat exchange with indoor air. That is, an indoor air inlet and an indoor air outlet are arranged on the second housing. Indoor air enters the second housing from the indoor air inlet and then enters the indoors from the indoor air outlet. The indoor air duct member, the indoor heat exchanger 45, and the indoor fan are located inside the second housing. The indoor fan is arranged inside the indoor air duct member, and the indoor air passage is also located inside the second housing. Indoor air enters the second housing from the indoor air inlet, exchanges heat at the indoor heat exchanger 45, and then enters the indoors from the indoor air outlet under the drive of the indoor fan.

[0046] The compressor 41 is arranged inside the outdoor air passage. The compressor 41 is provided with an outlet 42 and an inlet 43. The compressor 41 compresses the refrigerant, turning the low-pressure refrigerant into a high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. The low-pressure refrigerant enters the compressor 41 from the inlet 43. After the compressor 41 compresses the low-pressure refrigerant into a high-pressure refrigerant, the high-pressure refrigerant is discharged from the outlet 42. The refrigerant releases heat at the outdoor heat exchanger, decompresses, absorbs heat at the indoor heat exchanger 45, and finally enters the compressor 41 from the inlet 43.

[0047] The outdoor heat exchanger 10 is arranged inside the outdoor air passage to exchange heat between the outdoor air and the refrigerant flowing in the outdoor heat exchanger 10. The outdoor air entering the interior of the first housing from the outdoor air inlet flows in the outdoor air passage and exchanges heat with the refrigerant at the outdoor heat exchanger 10.

[0048] Outdoor air enters the first housing from the outdoor air inlet, flows in the outdoor air passage, and reaches the outdoor heat exchanger 10. Also, the refrigerant flows in the outdoor heat exchanger 10. When the outdoor air passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 10, it exchanges heat with the refrigerant. The heated outdoor air then flows through the outdoor air passage to the outdoor air outlet and is discharged outdoors from the outdoor air outlet.

[0049] When the air conditioner 100 is in the cooling mode, the outlet 42 of the compressor 41 is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 10. The outdoor air entering from the first air inlet flows to the outdoor heat exchanger 10, and a large amount of heat is released by the refrigerant at the outdoor heat exchanger 10; the outdoor air absorbs the heat of the refrigerant. When the air conditioner 100 is in the heating mode, the outlet 42 of the compressor 41 is connected to the indoor heat exchanger 45. After the refrigerant releases heat at the indoor heat exchanger 45, it flows to the outdoor heat exchanger 10. The outdoor air entering from the first air inlet flows to the outdoor heat exchanger 10, and the refrigerant absorbs the heat of the outdoor air at the outdoor heat exchanger 10.

[0050] The outdoor fan is arranged in the outdoor air passage. The outdoor fan rotates to drive the outdoor air to enter the outdoor air passage from the outdoor air inlet, exchange heat with the outdoor heat exchanger 10, and then flow out of the outdoor through the outdoor air outlet.

[0051] The outdoor fan is located in the first housing. Driven by the outdoor fan, the outdoor air enters the first housing from the outdoor air inlet, flows through the outdoor air passage to the outdoor heat exchanger 10. After the outdoor air exchanges heat with the refrigerant at the outdoor heat exchanger 10, the refrigerant is discharged to the outdoor from the outdoor air outlet under the drive of the outdoor fan.

[0052] The indoor heat exchanger 45 is arranged in the indoor air passage to exchange heat between the indoor air and the refrigerant flowing in the indoor heat exchanger 45. The indoor air entering the second housing from the indoor air inlet circulates in the indoor air passage and exchanges heat with the refrigerant at the indoor heat exchanger 45.

[0053] The indoor air enters the second housing from the indoor air inlet, circulates in the indoor air passage, and flows to the indoor heat exchanger 45; also, the refrigerant circulates in the indoor heat exchanger 45. When the indoor air passes through the indoor heat exchanger 45, it exchanges heat with the refrigerant; the heated indoor air then flows through the indoor air passage to the indoor air outlet and is discharged into the room from the indoor air outlet.

[0054] When the air conditioner 100 is in the cooling mode, the outlet 42 of the compressor 41 is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 10. After the refrigerant releases heat at the outdoor heat exchanger 10, it flows to the indoor heat exchanger 45. The indoor air entering from the indoor air inlet flows to the indoor heat exchanger 45, and the refrigerant absorbs the heat of the indoor air at the indoor heat exchanger 45, achieving the effect of cooling the room. When the air conditioner 100 is in the heating mode, the outlet 42 of the compressor 41 is connected to the indoor heat exchanger 45. The indoor air entering from the indoor air inlet flows to the indoor heat exchanger 45, and a large amount of heat is released by the refrigerant at the indoor heat exchanger 45; the indoor air absorbs the heat of the refrigerant, realizing the effect of heating the room.

[0055] The indoor fan is arranged inside the second housing. When the indoor fan rotates, it drives the air flow to enter the indoor air passage from the indoor air inlet, exchange heat with the indoor heat exchanger 45, and then flow out from the indoor air outlet to the interior of the room. The indoor fan is located inside the second housing. Driven by the indoor fan, the indoor air enters the second housing from the indoor air inlet, flows through the indoor air passage to the indoor heat exchanger 45. After the indoor air exchanges heat with the refrigerant at the indoor heat exchanger 45, the refrigerant is discharged into the room from the indoor air outlet under the drive of the indoor fan.

[0056] Among them, as shown in Figures 1-6 the outdoor heat exchanger 10 includes: a plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies 11, a first main pipe 12, and a second main pipe 13. The heat exchange sub-bodies 11 are used for exchanging heat with the indoor air. The first main pipe 12 is respectively connected to a plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies 11 and the pressure reducer 46, and the second main pipe 13 is respectively connected to a plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies 11 and the four-way valve 44. That is, the first main pipe 12 is the inflow main pipe, and the refrigerant flowing out from the compressor 41 enters a plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies 11 through the first main pipe 12 after passing through the four-way valve 44 and the pressure reducer 46. And the second main pipe 13 is the outflow main pipe, and the refrigerant after exchanging heat with the outdoor heat exchanger 10 flows to the four-way valve 44 from the second main pipe 13.

[0057] In addition, as shown in Figures 1-6 the air conditioner 100 further includes: a plurality of exhaust connection pipes 31 and a plurality of switching valves 20. The plurality of exhaust connection pipes 31 are selectively connected to the outlet 42 of the compressor 41 respectively. The plurality of switching valves 20 are connected to the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies 11 in one-to-one correspondence. The plurality of switching valves 20 are connected to the plurality of exhaust connection pipes 31 in one-to-one correspondence and are connected to the first main pipe 12. Each switching valve 20 enables one of the first main pipe 12 and the exhaust connection pipe 31 to be connected to the corresponding heat exchange sub-body 11.

[0058] And when the air conditioner 100 operates in the heating mode and the defrosting mode simultaneously, the four-way valve 44 connects the outlet 42 of the compressor 41 to the indoor heat exchanger 45, and connects the inlet 43 of the compressor 41 and the second main pipe 13. A part of the plurality of switching valves 20 enables the first main pipe 12 to be connected to the corresponding heat exchange sub-body 11, so that a part of the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies is used for heating. Another part of the plurality of switching valves 20 enables the corresponding exhaust connection pipe 31 to be connected to the corresponding heat exchange sub-body 11, so that another part of the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies 11 is used for defrosting.

[0059] That is to say, when the air conditioner 100 reaches the defrosting condition, the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant of the compressor 41 reaches the switching valve 20 through the exhaust connection pipe 31. Since the switching valve 20 connects the exhaust connection pipe 31 and the heat exchange body 11, the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant enters the outdoor heat exchanger 10 for condensation and heat release. After heat release, the temperature of the U-shaped pipe and the fins here is relatively high, and the frost layer on the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger 10 can be melted. The condensed refrigerant converges in the second main pipe 13 and then returns to the compressor 41 through the four-way valve 44 for the next cycle.

[0060] When the air conditioner 100 is operating normally for heating, the compressor 41 discharges the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant from the exhaust pipe. At this time, no refrigerant flows into the exhaust connection pipe 31 at the bottom of the switching valve 20, and the switching valve 20 connects the outlet of the compressor 41 and the heat exchange body 11. The high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant reaches the indoor heat exchanger 45 through the four-way valve 44 for condensation and heat release, and after heat release, the hot air is blown out into the room by the fan. The condensed liquid refrigerant throttles through the pressure reducer 46 and then reaches the first main pipe 12. The first main pipe 12 then enters at least two heat exchange bodies 11 from the inflow branch pipes 14 respectively for evaporation and heat absorption, and then comes to the outflow branch pipes 15 to be aggregated into the first main pipe 12, and finally returns to the compressor 41 through the four-way valve 44.

[0061] In addition, when a certain heat exchange body 11 reaches the defrosting condition, the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant of the compressor 41 reaches the switching valve 20 from here, enters the heat exchange body 11, and removes the frost layer on the heat exchange body 11. The other heat exchange bodies 11 still participate in the heating of the system, so as to achieve heating and defrosting without switching to refrigeration, and the defrosting air outlet temperature remains high.

[0062] Therefore, by setting the exhaust connection pipe 31 and the switching valve 20, when the air conditioner 100 reaches the defrosting condition, the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant of the compressor 41 reaches the switching valve 20 through the exhaust connection pipe 31. The switching valve 20 connects the exhaust connection pipe 31 and the heat exchange body 11. After heat release, the temperature of the U-shaped pipe and the fins of the outdoor heat exchanger 10 is relatively high, and the frost layer on the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger 10 can be melted, so as to effectively realize the defrosting of the outdoor heat exchanger 10. In addition, when defrosting, the outdoor heat exchanger 10 can first remove the frost condensed on some heat exchange bodies 11, and the other heat exchange bodies 11 are still in the heating mode, so as to achieve defrosting while the air conditioner 100 is heating without switching to refrigeration, and the defrosting air outlet temperature remains high.

[0063] Among them, in combination with Figures 6-11 As shown, the switching valve 20 includes: a valve body 21 and a valve core 22. The valve body 21 is provided with a first valve port 212, a second valve port 213 and a third valve port 214. In addition, the first valve port 212 is connected to the first main pipe 12, the second valve port 213 is connected to the heat exchange body 11, and the third valve port 214 is connected to the exhaust connection pipe 31.

[0064] The valve core 22 is arranged inside the valve body 21, and the valve core 22 selectively closes one of the first valve port 212 and the third valve port 214, so that the other one of the first valve port 212 and the third valve port 214 communicates with the second valve port 213.

[0065] Refer to Figure 5 As shown, when the air conditioner 100 reaches the defrosting condition, the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant of the compressor 41 reaches the switching valve 20 through the exhaust connection pipe 31. The valve core 22 closes the first valve port 212, so that the first valve port 212 is isolated from the second valve port 213, and the third valve port 214 of the switching valve 20 communicates with the second valve port 213. The high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant enters the outdoor heat exchanger 10 for condensation and heat release. After heat release, the temperature of the U-shaped pipe and the fins here is relatively high, and the frost layer on the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger can be melted. The condensed refrigerant converges in the second main pipe 13 and then returns to the compressor 41 through the four-way valve 44 for the next cycle.

[0066] Refer to Figure 6 As shown, when the air conditioner 100 is operating normally for heating, the compressor 41 discharges the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant from the exhaust pipe. At this time, the valve core 22 of the switching valve 20 closes the third valve port 214. At this time, the second valve port 213 communicates with the first valve port 212. The high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant reaches the indoor heat exchanger 45 through the four-way valve 44 for condensation and heat release, and after heat release, the hot air is blown out into the room through the fan. The condensed liquid refrigerant throttles through the pressure reducer 46 and then reaches the first main pipe 12 of the outdoor heat exchanger 10, absorbs heat at the outdoor heat exchanger 10 and then returns to the compressor 41 through the four-way valve 44.

[0067] In addition, refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the valve body 21 is arranged vertically. The second valve port 213 is arranged on the side wall of the valve body 21, the first valve port 212 is arranged at the upper end of the valve body 21, and the third valve port 214 is arranged at the lower end of the valve body 21. The valve core 22 is adapted to close the third valve port 214 under the action of gravity, and is adapted to close the first valve port 212 under the action of the refrigerant pressure conveyed by the exhaust connection pipe 31.

[0068] In this way, when the air conditioner 100 is operating normally for heating, there is no refrigerant flowing into the exhaust connection pipe 31 at the bottom of the switching valve 20, and the valve core 22 of the switching valve 20 slides downward to the bottom of the switching valve 20 under its own gravity. At this time, the second valve port 213 communicates with the first valve port 212.

[0069] Alternatively, when the air conditioner 100 reaches the defrosting condition, the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant of the compressor 41 reaches the switching valve 20 through the exhaust connection pipe 31. Since the bottom of the switching valve 20 is high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant, which is much greater than the pressure of the first valve port 212, at this time, the valve core 22 is pushed upward, so that the first valve port 212 of the switching valve 20 is isolated from the second valve port 213, and the third valve port 214 of the switching valve 20 communicates with the second valve port 213.

[0070] Specifically, as Figure 9 shown, the valve core 22 includes: a sliding portion 221 and a first sealing portion 222. The sliding portion 221 is used for sliding within the valve body 21, and the first sealing portion 222 is connected to one side of the sliding portion 221 facing the first valve port 212 for sealing the first valve port 212. Specifically, a sliding cavity 211 is provided within the valve body 21. Among them, the diameter of the sliding portion 221 is the same as the diameter of the sliding cavity 211, so that the sliding portion 221 can slide within the valve body 21. In addition, since the diameter of the sliding portion 221 is the same as the diameter of the sliding cavity 211, the sliding portion 221 can be used to achieve sealing with the sliding cavity 211.

[0071] And, a first sealing portion 222 is further provided at one end of the sliding portion 221. The diameter of the first sealing portion 222 is the same as the diameter of the first valve port 212. In this way, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant in the exhaust connection pipe 31 pushes the valve core 22 upward, so that the first sealing portion 222 of the valve core 22 seals with the first valve port 212, thereby isolating the first valve port 212 from the second valve port 213 and connecting the third valve port 214 with the second valve port 213.

[0072] Among them, the valve core 22 can be a rubber part.

[0073] In addition, as shown in Figure 8 and Figure 9 shown, the valve core 22 further includes: a second sealing portion 223. The second sealing portion 223 is provided between the sliding portion 221 and the first sealing portion 222, and a third sealing portion 215 adapted to the second sealing portion 223 is provided on the valve body 21. That is, a second sealing portion 223 is further provided between the first sealing portion 222 and the sliding portion 221, and a third sealing portion 215 is provided on the valve body 21. The second sealing portion 223 and the third sealing portion 215 can be adapted to each other, that is, a good sealing environment can be formed between the second sealing portion 223 and the third sealing portion 215.

[0074] Specifically, the second sealing portion 223 and the third sealing portion 215 are conical.

[0075] Further, a T-shaped three-way pipe is provided at the outlet 42 of the compressor 41, and at least two exhaust connection pipes 31 are branched out through the combination of another T-shaped three-way pipe and are respectively connected to the third valve ports 214 of at least two switching valves 20.

[0076] In addition, as Figure 1 shown, the air conditioner 100 further includes: a plurality of control valves 33, the control valves 33 are arranged on the exhaust connection pipes 31, and the control valves 33 are used to control the corresponding exhaust connection pipes 31 to be opened or closed. That is, control valves 33 are arranged on the exhaust connection pipes 31, and the control valves 33 are used to control the exhaust connection pipes 31 to be opened or closed. In this way, when the air conditioner 100 is operating normally for heating, the plurality of control valves 33 are all in the closed state, and the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant will not enter the switching valve 20 through the exhaust connection pipes 31. And, when a certain heat exchange sub-body 11 needs to be defrosted, the control valve 33 communicated with the heat exchange sub-body 11 is opened, so that the high-temperature and high-pressure gas can enter the switching valve 20 through the exhaust connection pipe 31.

[0077] In addition, as Figure 1 shown, the air conditioner 100 further includes: a first temperature sensing component 32 and a controller, the first temperature sensing component 32 is used to obtain the temperatures of the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies 11, and the controller is electrically connected to the first temperature sensing component 32.

[0078] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the controller is configured to:

[0079] When the air conditioner 100 is operating in the heating mode, obtain the temperatures of the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies 11;

[0080] According to the temperature of each heat exchange sub-body 11, judge whether the heat exchange sub-body 11 meets the defrosting condition; that is, judge whether the heat exchange sub-body 11 needs to be defrosted by obtaining the temperature of the heat exchange sub-body 11.

[0081] If it is judged that the heat exchange sub-body 11 meets the defrosting condition, control the corresponding exhaust connection pipe 31 to communicate with the switching valve 20, so as to communicate the outlet 42 of the compressor 41 with the heat exchange sub-body 11, so as to defrost the heat exchange sub-body 11.

[0082] That is, when one of the heat exchange sub-bodies 11 needs to be defrosted, the control valve 33 communicating with the heat exchange sub-body 11 is opened. At this time, a part of the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged by the compressor 41 is diverted from the T-shaped three-way pipe and reaches the third valve port 214 of the switching valve 20 through the exhaust connection pipe 31. The high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant enters the sliding cavity 211 of the switching valve 20. Since the bottom of the switching valve 20 is high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant, which is much higher than the pressure of the first valve port 212, the valve core 22 is pushed upward. The second sealing portion 223 of the valve core 22 is in close contact with the third sealing portion 215 of the valve body 21, and the first sealing portion 222 of the valve core 22 is inserted into the first valve port 212 for double sealing, so that the first valve port 212 and the second valve port 213 of the switching valve 20 are isolated, and the third valve port 214 and the second valve port 213 of the switching valve 20 are communicated. The high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant enters the heat exchange sub-body 11 for condensation and heat release. After heat release, the temperature of the U-tubes and fins of the heat exchange sub-body 11 here is relatively high, and the frost layer on the surface of the outdoor heat exchanger 10 can be melted. The condensed refrigerant converges from the second main pipe 13 and returns to the compressor 41 through the four-way valve 44 for the next cycle.

[0083] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the controller is further configured to:

[0084] Determine the maximum temperature Tmax and the minimum temperature Tmin of the heat exchange sub-body 11 during the operation time according to the temperature of each heat exchange sub-body 11;

[0085] When the difference ΔT between Tmax and Tmin is greater than the preset difference ΔT1, determine the temperature change trend of the heat exchange sub-body 11 during the target time period within the operation time, where the operation time includes multiple time periods;

[0086] When the temperature change trend belongs to a downward trend, it is determined that the heat exchange sub-body 11 meets the defrosting condition, where, within the target time period, the temperature of the heat exchange sub-body 11 at adjacent moments or adjacent time periods decreases in sequence, and it is determined that the temperature change trend belongs to a downward trend.

[0087] Wherein, ΔT1 is equal to 8°C, that is, when the difference ΔT between Tmax and Tmin is greater than the preset difference of 8°C, the temperature change trend of the heat exchange sub-body 11 during the target time period within the operation time is determined.

[0088] In addition, the method for the temperature change trend of the heat exchange sub-body 11 during the target time period within the operation time is as follows:

[0089] Continuously monitor the temperature T of one of the heat exchange sub-bodies 11, and record it every 10 s; at the beginning of each cycle, assign 1 to P and N = 0. Compare the temperature T of the heat exchange sub-body 11 this time with the temperature T1 of the heat exchange sub-body 11 last time. When T < T1, N = 1; when T > T1, P = 0. And 10 minutes is a cycle. After each cycle ends, re-assign 1 to P and N = 0; judge the value of N*P. If N*P = 1, it means that the temperature of this cycle is in a downward trend, and then control the heat exchange sub-body 11 to enter the defrosting mode. That is to say, when the temperature of the heat exchange sub-body 11 is in a downward state, control the heat exchange sub-body 11 to enter the defrosting mode.

[0090] That is, within the target time period, the temperatures of the heat exchange sub-body 11 at adjacent moments or adjacent time periods are in a decreasing trend in sequence, so it can be determined that the temperature change trend of the heat exchange sub-body 11 belongs to the downward trend.

[0091] Further, when multiple heat exchange sub-bodies 11 all meet the defrosting conditions, select the heat exchange sub-body 11 with a lower temperature to enter the defrosting mode. When the heat exchange sub-body 11 exits the defrosting mode, other heat exchange sub-bodies 11 enter the defrosting mode. In this way, this setting can avoid the risk that when multiple heat exchange sub-bodies 11 all meet the defrosting conditions, multiple heat exchange sub-bodies 11 enter the defrosting mode simultaneously, resulting in the suspension of the heating mode of the air conditioner 100. In addition, selecting the heat exchange sub-body 11 with a lower temperature to enter the defrosting mode can solve the frost condensed on the outdoor heat exchanger 10 faster.

[0092] The air conditioner 100 further includes: a second temperature sensing component, which is used to obtain the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 45, and the second temperature sensing component is electrically connected to the controller.

[0093] Further, the controller is further configured to: after the heat exchange sub-body 11 with the lowest temperature finishes defrosting preferentially and stops defrosting, when it is judged that the temperature rise value of the indoor heat exchanger 45 reaches the preset value, control the heat exchange sub-body 11 with the second lowest temperature to defrost. With this setting, it can be avoided that multiple heat exchange sub-bodies 11 defrost in sequence, resulting in a relatively low refrigerant temperature in the indoor heat exchanger 45, causing a bad effect of blowing cold air in the heating mode.

[0094] Specifically, when the temperature rise value of the indoor heat exchanger 45 is greater than 3°C, control the heat exchange sub-body 11 with the second lowest temperature to defrost.

[0095] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the controller is further configured to: when it is judged that the heat exchange sub-body 11 meets the stop defrosting condition, control the corresponding exhaust connection pipe 31 and the switching valve 20 to be disconnected, so as to disconnect the outlet 42 of the compressor 41 and the heat exchange sub-body 11, and connect the pressure reducer 46 and the heat exchange sub-body 11, so as to stop defrosting the heat exchange sub-body 11.

[0096] That is, when one of the heat exchange sub-bodies 11 exits the defrosting mode, the control valve 33 communicating with the heat exchange sub-body 11 closes. At this time, when there is no refrigerant discharged from the compressor 41 passing through the third valve port 214 at the bottom of the switching valve 20, the valve core 22 slides downward under its own gravity. At this time, the first valve port 212 communicates with the second valve port 213 and the third valve port 214 is isolated from the second valve port 213. The heat exchange sub-body 11 that has completed defrosting continues to participate in the heating operation.

[0097] Among them, the defrosting stop conditions include at least one of the following:

[0098] The defrosting time of the heat exchange sub-body 11 is greater than or equal to the first preset time t1; that is to say, when the start time of the defrosting mode of the heat exchange sub-body 11 is greater than or equal to the first preset time t1, the heat exchange sub-body 11 exits the defrosting mode. That is, after the start time of the defrosting mode of the heat exchange sub-body 11 is greater than or equal to the first preset time t1, at least most of the frost can be removed by the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant.

[0099] The temperature of the heat exchange sub-body 11 is greater than or equal to the first predetermined temperature T1 and lasts for the second preset time t2. Or, when the temperature of the heat exchange sub-body 11 is greater than or equal to the first predetermined temperature T1 and lasts for the second preset time t2, that is, the temperature of the heat exchange sub-body 11 is relatively high, most of the frost can also be removed.

[0100] Among them, t2 can be 8 minutes, T5 can be 25 °C, and t3 can be 10 seconds.

[0101] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the controller is further configured to: when the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 45 is lower than the second predetermined temperature T2, control the rotational speed of the indoor fan to decrease from the current rotational speed to the first preset rotational speed V1; that is to say, when the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 45 is lower than T2, the rotational speed of the indoor fan is adjusted to the first preset rotational speed V1, so as to avoid the problem that the high rotational speed of the indoor fan drives a large amount of indoor air to exchange heat with the heat exchange sub-body 11, resulting in a relatively low temperature of the heat exchange air flow. Among them, T2 can be 37 °C.

[0102] When the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 45 is lower than the third predetermined temperature T3, control the rotational speed of the indoor fan to decrease from the current rotational speed to the second preset rotational speed V2, where V2 < V1; that is to say, when the temperature of the heat exchange sub-body 11 is lower than T3, the rotational speed of the indoor fan is adjusted to the second preset rotational speed V2, so as to avoid the problem that the high rotational speed of the indoor fan drives a large amount of indoor air to exchange heat with the heat exchange sub-body 11, resulting in a relatively low temperature of the heat exchange air flow. Among them, T3 can be 27 °C.

[0103] When the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 45 is higher than the fourth predetermined temperature T4, the rotation speed of the indoor fan is controlled to resume to the current rotation speed; that is, when the temperature of the heat exchange sub-body 11 is higher than T4, the heat exchange sub-body 11 can continuously provide high-temperature air flow to the indoor side, thereby ensuring the user's comfort in use. Among them, T4 can be 40°C.

[0104] Among them, T4 > T2 > T3.

[0105] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by the terms "center", "longitudinal", "transverse", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc. is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation of the present invention.

[0106] In the description of this specification, the description with reference to the terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "schematic embodiments", "examples", "specific examples", or "some examples", etc. means that the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the schematic expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example.

[0107] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those of ordinary skill in the art can understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions, and variations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and purposes of the present invention, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An air conditioner, comprising: A refrigerant circuit, the refrigerant circuit comprising a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, a pressure reducer, an outdoor heat exchanger and a four-way valve, the pressure reducer being connected to the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger respectively, and the inlet of the compressor, the outlet of the compressor, the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger being connected to the four-way valve respectively; It is characterized in that The outdoor heat exchanger comprises: Multiple heat exchange sub-bodies; a first header pipe, the first header pipe being connected to the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies and the pressure reducer respectively; a second main pipe, the second main pipe being connected to the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies and the four-way valve respectively; Wherein, the air conditioner further comprises: A plurality of exhaust connection pipes, wherein the plurality of exhaust connection pipes are selectively connected to the outlet of the compressor respectively; A plurality of switching valves, the plurality of switching valves are connected to the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies in a one-to-one correspondence, the plurality of switching valves are connected to the plurality of exhaust connection pipes in a one-to-one correspondence and are connected to the first header pipe, and each of the switching valves enables one of the first header pipe and the exhaust connection pipe to communicate with the corresponding heat exchange sub-bodies; When the air conditioner operates in heating mode and defrost mode at the same time, the four-way valve connects the outlet of the compressor with the indoor heat exchanger, and connects the inlet of the compressor with the second main pipe, a part of the multiple switching valves connects the first main pipe with the corresponding heat exchange sub-bodies, so that a part of the multiple heat exchange sub-bodies are used for heating, and another part of the multiple switching valves connects the corresponding exhaust connecting pipes with the corresponding heat exchange sub-bodies, so that another part of the multiple heat exchange sub-bodies are used for defrosting.

2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each of the switching valves comprises: A valve body, wherein the valve body is provided with a first valve port, a second valve port and a third valve port, wherein the first valve port is connected to the first manifold, the second valve port is connected to the heat exchange sub-body, and the third valve port is connected to the exhaust connecting pipe; A valve core is disposed in the valve body, and the valve core selectively closes one of the first valve port and the third valve port to allow the other of the first valve port and the third valve port to communicate with the second valve port.

3. The air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that: The valve body is arranged vertically, the first valve port is arranged at the upper end of the valve body, the second valve port is arranged at the side wall of the valve body, and the third valve port is arranged at the lower end of the valve body. The valve core is suitable for closing the third valve port under the action of gravity, and is suitable for closing the first valve port under the action of the refrigerant pressure transported by the exhaust connecting pipe.

4. The air conditioner according to claim 3, characterized in that: The valve core comprises: A sliding portion, the sliding portion being used to slide within the valve body; A first sealing portion, wherein the first sealing portion is connected to a side of the sliding portion facing the first valve port, and is used for sealing the first valve port.

5. The air conditioner according to claim 4, characterized in that: The valve core also includes: a second sealing portion, the second sealing portion being disposed between the sliding portion and the first sealing portion; Wherein, a third sealing portion matched with the second sealing portion is arranged on the valve body, and the second sealing portion and the third sealing portion are matched cones.

6. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also includes: A plurality of control valves, each of which corresponds to each of the plurality of exhaust connection pipes and is electrically connected to the controller, wherein the control valves are used to control the on / off of the corresponding exhaust connection pipes.

7. The air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also includes: A first temperature sensing component, the first temperature sensing component is used to obtain the temperature of the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies; A controller, the controller being electrically connected to the first temperature sensing assembly, the controller being configured to: When the air conditioner operates in a heating mode, obtaining the temperatures of the plurality of heat exchange sub-bodies; According to the temperature of each heat exchange sub-body, judging whether the heat exchange sub-body meets the defrosting condition; If it is determined that the heat exchange sub-body meets the defrosting condition, the corresponding exhaust connecting pipe is controlled to be connected to the switching valve, so as to connect the outlet of the compressor to the heat exchange sub-body, so as to defrost the heat exchange sub-body.

8. The air conditioner according to claim 7, characterized in that: The controller is also configured to: According to the temperature of each heat exchange sub-body, determine the maximum temperature Tmax and the minimum temperature Tmin of the heat exchange sub-body during the operation time; When the difference ΔT between Tmax and Tmin is greater than the preset difference ΔT1, the temperature change trend of the temperature of the heat exchange sub-body within the target time period within the operating time is determined, wherein the operating time includes multiple time periods; When the temperature change trend is a downward trend, it is determined that the heat exchange sub-body meets the defrosting condition, wherein within the target time period, the temperature of the heat exchange sub-body at adjacent moments or adjacent time periods decreases successively, and it is determined that the temperature change trend is a downward trend.

9. The air conditioner according to claim 7, characterized in that: The controller is also configured to: When a plurality of the heat exchange sub-bodies meet the defrosting conditions, the heat exchange sub-bodies with the lowest temperature are controlled to be defrosted first.

10. The air conditioner according to claim 9, characterized in that: Also includes: a second temperature sensing component, the second temperature sensing component is used to obtain the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the second temperature sensing component is electrically connected to the controller; The controller is also configured to: After the heat exchange sub-body with the lowest temperature is defrosted first and stops defrosting, when it is determined that the temperature rise value of the indoor heat exchanger reaches a preset value, the heat exchange sub-body with the second lowest temperature is controlled to defrost.

11. The air conditioner according to claim 7, characterized in that: The controller is also configured to: When it is determined that the heat exchange sub-body meets the defrosting stop condition, the corresponding exhaust connection pipe and the switching valve are controlled to be disconnected to disconnect the outlet of the compressor from the heat exchange sub-body, and the pressure reducer is connected to the heat exchange sub-body to stop defrosting the heat exchange sub-body; The defrost stopping condition includes at least one of the following: The defrosting time of the heat exchange sub-body is greater than or equal to the first preset time t1; The temperature of the heat exchange sub-body is greater than or equal to the first predetermined temperature T1 and lasts for a second predetermined time t2.

12. The air conditioner according to claim 7, characterized in that: Also includes: An indoor fan, the indoor fan is arranged at one side of the indoor heat exchanger to deliver the airflow after heat exchange by the indoor heat exchanger to the room, and the indoor fan is electrically connected to the controller; a second temperature sensing component, the second temperature sensing component is used to obtain the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger, and the second temperature sensing component is electrically connected to the controller; The controller is also configured to: When the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is lower than the second predetermined temperature T2, the speed of the indoor fan is controlled to decrease from the current speed to the first preset speed V1; When the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is lower than the third predetermined temperature T3, the speed of the indoor fan is controlled to decrease from the current speed to the second preset speed V2, V2<V1; When the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger is higher than a fourth predetermined temperature T4, controlling the speed of the indoor fan to return to the current speed; Among them, T4>T2>T3.

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